I love today's Psalm for its applicability to my life, and it's ability to convict me when I need it! I like it better in the hard-cover version I read most days:
"I will study the way that is blameless. When shall I attain it?
I will walk with integrity of heart within my house; I will not set before my eyes anything that is base." Psalm 101:2-3a NRSV
I've had years of practice at walking with the Lord at home-- from being a stay-at-home mom with three kids, to a work-at-home artist and writer. Most of the time it is only the Lord who knows whether I have lived with integrity or not, although the fruit that I have borne, good or bad, all comes from this tree, grown at home. Especially now, when the routine of raising children is over, there are lots of opportunities to waste time on worthless things. Even though I'm careful not to get into evil things, I've discovered that even "harmless" things can steal the fruit I was meant to bear. Since Jesus Himself is my righteousness, and the Way in which I'm to walk, staying in His presence is the only way I'm going to attain a useful and blameless life that pleases Him. If I don't purposely set myself to live before Him at all times, I can easily drift (and occasionally do).
As a person who spends a great deal of time alone, I've discovered that my worst enemy is myself. I believe David realized this as well, and expressed it in this Psalm. If I do nothing but look into the mirror, I'm going to have to deal with a person who could possibly: do something base, fall away from grace, be perverse of heart, think evil thoughts, secretly slander someone, have a haughty or arrogant attitude, practice deceit or utter lies. If I don't face up to the wickedness that dwells in my own selfish nature, I've already practiced deceit with myself. So I'm with David-- I'm not going to wear a mask to fool myself (and I can't fool God, of course). Instead, I'm going to get into conflict with all evil that thinks it wants to dwell in my private lodgings. "Morning by morning I will destroy all the wicked in the land, cutting off all evildoers from the city of the Lord." vs 8 NRSV
And in the holographic sense, I'm the city of the Lord, and so are you.
Showing posts with label Christian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian. Show all posts
Friday, October 29, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
October 19, 2010 Exercising Godliness
Reading the story of the Hebrews who went back on their word about freeing the slaves reminds me of how I tend to be sometimes. You might be able to relate too, if you think about it. How often do we agree with God about something, only to go back on it later? We don't usually admit that we're "changing our mind," but we do (backwards repentance!). We often assent to the freedom God gives us, only to put ourselves back in bondage to the thing we were enslaved by.
The problem is, I believe, that after the initial decision to do right, we discover the pain or trouble it will cost us to actually do right. Deciding to lose weight, or get in shape, or clean out the garage, or budget our time or money, all sound great in our minds, but doing them is another matter all together. Spiritual things are pretty much the same, aren't they? That's why Paul told Timothy to "exercise yourself toward godliness." 1 Timothy 4:7b
It's good to educate ourselves about the "whys" of doing something. "Why" should I eat healthy food? "Why" should I study the Word? "Why" should I strengthen my core muscles? "Why" should I be a doer of the Word? "Why" should I be faithful in the little things? Understanding things helps us do them. But no matter how much we understand, it's always going to cost us to do what we know. Perhaps this is why we need coaches. They've gone through the pain and they've gotten to the gain! They can help us continue when the going gets rough.
For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come."
1 Timothy 4:8
If the benefit of healthy living is "little" compared to the benefit of godly living (which includes development in spiritual things, God's way), then godliness is very profitable indeed! If people benefit from practicing a "zen" lifestyle, imagine how much greater the benefits of practicing life the way Jesus reveals it!
Having walked a bit in the living Way, I can personally testify that God's ways are totally worth walking in. For instance, the practice of forgiveness towards others keeps me in the flow of heaven, and relieves a lot of stress. But learning that practice has been a painful ordeal at times. It helps me to remember that my Coach already forgave us, and that cost Him more than I can imagine.
The problem is, I believe, that after the initial decision to do right, we discover the pain or trouble it will cost us to actually do right. Deciding to lose weight, or get in shape, or clean out the garage, or budget our time or money, all sound great in our minds, but doing them is another matter all together. Spiritual things are pretty much the same, aren't they? That's why Paul told Timothy to "exercise yourself toward godliness." 1 Timothy 4:7b
It's good to educate ourselves about the "whys" of doing something. "Why" should I eat healthy food? "Why" should I study the Word? "Why" should I strengthen my core muscles? "Why" should I be a doer of the Word? "Why" should I be faithful in the little things? Understanding things helps us do them. But no matter how much we understand, it's always going to cost us to do what we know. Perhaps this is why we need coaches. They've gone through the pain and they've gotten to the gain! They can help us continue when the going gets rough.
For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come."
1 Timothy 4:8
If the benefit of healthy living is "little" compared to the benefit of godly living (which includes development in spiritual things, God's way), then godliness is very profitable indeed! If people benefit from practicing a "zen" lifestyle, imagine how much greater the benefits of practicing life the way Jesus reveals it!
Having walked a bit in the living Way, I can personally testify that God's ways are totally worth walking in. For instance, the practice of forgiveness towards others keeps me in the flow of heaven, and relieves a lot of stress. But learning that practice has been a painful ordeal at times. It helps me to remember that my Coach already forgave us, and that cost Him more than I can imagine.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
October 14, 2010 I Choose The Temple Of Truth
Since we are created to be God's temple, individually and corporately, we have a responsibility to remain faithful to Him. There is an unholy temple, and I don't want to be it. In that temple, the self is set up as god, and lawlessness "rules." Unrighteousness is its condition. According to our reading today, it is the work of Satan. It is the result of not loving the truth, and those who live there are given over to a lying delusion, and eventually to destruction.
On the other hand, we have the choice to live in, and be, God's holy temple. In this temple, Christ Jesus is King, and because of His grace, we serve the living God. This temple is full of the praise of God, and His truth rules. The condition of those who live here is blessing and strength, grace and glory!
Even though the world seems to be, more and more, embracing the spirit of antichrist, rushing headlong into insanity, we who are in Christ Jesus may be always joyful and hopeful in Him. As we patiently wait for His return, we have the awesome privilege to daily serve Him in whatever He has given us to do, whether small or great.
"Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work."
2 Thessalonians 2: 16-17 NKJV
On the other hand, we have the choice to live in, and be, God's holy temple. In this temple, Christ Jesus is King, and because of His grace, we serve the living God. This temple is full of the praise of God, and His truth rules. The condition of those who live here is blessing and strength, grace and glory!
Even though the world seems to be, more and more, embracing the spirit of antichrist, rushing headlong into insanity, we who are in Christ Jesus may be always joyful and hopeful in Him. As we patiently wait for His return, we have the awesome privilege to daily serve Him in whatever He has given us to do, whether small or great.
"Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work."
2 Thessalonians 2: 16-17 NKJV
Monday, September 20, 2010
September 20, 2010 A Vision In The Fire
Instead of trying to figure all this out in my mind, I just let the words today swirl around me and soak into me. Don't you just love the visions of the Lord here, how He stands out with such magnificent beauty and glory? The visions of judgment can create an overwhelming fear in people sometimes, but in these passages we are given such a clear vision of the Lord and His indestructible kingdom, that if we keep our eyes on Him we will be able to stand and trust Him until it is all accomplished. Seeing Him in this way reminds me of what the three Hebrew men saw in the firey furnace: the Lord Himself present among them. They came forth without even the smell of smoke on them. When we are in the Lord, this is what our experience will be. Whether we are being persecuted by the wicked, or the fires of judgment burn, we will be preserved and protected by our Savior when we are standing with Him.
Weighed in the balance:
HYPOCRISY
"Fearfulness has seized the hypocrites," Isaiah 33:14
We may be fooled by false righteousness, but it will not hold up against the fire. If we have a fear of judgment, we may want to examine ourselves and see if we are walking in hypocrisy. It can sneak up on us even when we are serious about walking with the Lord. The sure way to stay secure is to
WALK IN THE SPIRIT. Because God looks at the heart, there is no "formula" for living that is fireproof. Good behavior can be hypocrisy when it covers up hidden lust in the heart (and lust is simply whatever is motivating the flesh at the time). God is so good to bring things about in such a way as to reveal to us what we thought was the fruit of the Spirit but was only our own effort at being good.
Only the fruit of the Spirit can hold up under pressure, and fire. There is no reason to worry about this: walk with Him and trust Him to reveal what needs to be revealed. A desire to walk in the Spirit, and humble prayer for the Lord to teach us how, will set us on the path. His voice is always leading us, so all we must do is listen and obey. The Word is our guide as well; if we neglect the Word, it's harder to hear Him speak to us in our heart. The good news is, if you are born again, it is natural for you to walk in the Spirit! The more mature you get, the more swiftly you will run. You are free to BE in Him, you see!
Questions to ponder:
What fruits of the Spirit have you been able to see in your life lately? How about in your spouse, child or friend? Have you ever thought about mentioning it to them? How would you feel if someone pointed out a fruit of the Spirit that they saw growing in your life?
What is it about hypocrisy that bothers you the most? In yourself? In another? What is your response to it? What did Jesus say about it?
What would hypocrisy look like on a national level? What should our response be to hypocrisy in the government or in our leaders?
Weighed in the balance:
HYPOCRISY
"Fearfulness has seized the hypocrites," Isaiah 33:14
We may be fooled by false righteousness, but it will not hold up against the fire. If we have a fear of judgment, we may want to examine ourselves and see if we are walking in hypocrisy. It can sneak up on us even when we are serious about walking with the Lord. The sure way to stay secure is to
WALK IN THE SPIRIT. Because God looks at the heart, there is no "formula" for living that is fireproof. Good behavior can be hypocrisy when it covers up hidden lust in the heart (and lust is simply whatever is motivating the flesh at the time). God is so good to bring things about in such a way as to reveal to us what we thought was the fruit of the Spirit but was only our own effort at being good.
Only the fruit of the Spirit can hold up under pressure, and fire. There is no reason to worry about this: walk with Him and trust Him to reveal what needs to be revealed. A desire to walk in the Spirit, and humble prayer for the Lord to teach us how, will set us on the path. His voice is always leading us, so all we must do is listen and obey. The Word is our guide as well; if we neglect the Word, it's harder to hear Him speak to us in our heart. The good news is, if you are born again, it is natural for you to walk in the Spirit! The more mature you get, the more swiftly you will run. You are free to BE in Him, you see!
Questions to ponder:
What fruits of the Spirit have you been able to see in your life lately? How about in your spouse, child or friend? Have you ever thought about mentioning it to them? How would you feel if someone pointed out a fruit of the Spirit that they saw growing in your life?
What is it about hypocrisy that bothers you the most? In yourself? In another? What is your response to it? What did Jesus say about it?
What would hypocrisy look like on a national level? What should our response be to hypocrisy in the government or in our leaders?
Monday, August 9, 2010
August 9, 2010 God's Clear Guidelines For Social Networking
Today the Lord reminded me of some things I'd learned, and clarified them for me. I thought they might be relevant to you as they are to me. They have to do with our interactions with people in the world, and with fellow Christians.
First, it is most important that we do what we say. The issue of living what we preach came up first; often that's going to take crying out to God for help in order to do so. Without that kind of integrity, we lose our good witness and end up ashamed. God comes through with aid when we're committed to actually doing the Word, not just reading it and talking about it.
The issues of "intermarrying with pagans" and "sexual immorality" got a lot of attention: these are obviously really important to the Lord. With the Old and New Testament passages juxtaposed like this, I got a clearer understanding of what the Lord is trying to say, at least to me right now. I think as Christians, we mostly know we're not to marry outside of Christ, or have sex outside of marriage. But I think we can apply this to ourselves in a deeper understanding of intimacy and partnership. We shouldn't be birthing anything of mixed spiritual seed (children of the devil birthing something together with children of God; birthing something that's partly of the devil and partly of God). We shouldn't even take the risk of that kind of illegitimate relationship -- it creates all sorts of trouble.
On the other hand, the Apostle Paul made it clear that the Lord wasn't telling us to go around judging the world for its idolatrous and sexually immoral behavior, or for all the rest of the things he listed (and there is so much more)! God's got it covered. He said he wasn't even telling us to avoid contact with the people in the world, "since then you would need to go out of the world." How could we be a witness in the world if we're not allowed to hang around with people in the world?
If you'll think about it for a minute, Jesus came down out of a holy heaven and entered into a very sinful world, in human form, to hang out with us sinful people. It wasn't because He loved the sin! Obviously He doesn't! He came because He loves people, and He wanted to share God's good news with them. He wanted to give them a way out of the sin, and a way to escape the corruption in the world and the judgement of the world that is to come. He is the Way, and He made it possible for us to see that.
Now it's up to us to do the same. He never engaged in the sinful behavior, however. He was always Himself, yet He made Himself accessible. He was engaging without compromise. Jesus is the best example of how to do godly social networking. Not only that, He's given us His Spirit to help us do it right.
Paul brought up a major issue about how to deal with people who call themselves Christians and don't live like it (and it seems to me that he is talking about habitual lifestyle, not just mistakes, since he called them "evil people"!). As I said before, we should not be one of those. But here we see that we shouldn't even hang around with one of those! Does this seem contradictory? Hang out with the sinners in the world, but don't hang out with the sinners in the Church.
Well, think about it. First, there's the possibility that it might be an imposter (poser, infiltrator), possibly a wolf. Or it could be a person under the influence of a Jezebel spirit. Any of these types are stalking around looking to lead people astray and devour them. Someone doing immoral things within the body of Christ ends up leading others to do the same, usually the lambs. It despoils the testimony of the Church, and it grieves the Spirit of God. The Church is about oneness with God and each other. God will not be one with evil! There may be other reasons besides these. Whatever the reasons for God saying it's a big deal, Paul makes it clear that it's dangerous and that we are to take action. Yes, we are to judge it. We are to disengage from fellowship with them, and we are not to associate. [If you have read further in the letters of Paul, you will see that this choice is to be redemptive always].
As you can see, the things we read in Scripture are very relevant and applicable to our daily lives. I received some clear instruction today, and some things on which to seek God further. I hope you did too.
Questions to ponder:
How committed are you to obeying what the Word of God teaches?
What do you do when you are up against a compromising situation?
Have you ever gotten too involved with an unbeliever? How did that turn out?
How much say does God have in your own social networking practices?
How does God's Word affect how you relate to people in the world? people in the church? Is He calling for any change in these areas?
Have you ever had to give up a Christian friend because they were living a sinful lifestyle? What would tell someone facing that type of choice?
First, it is most important that we do what we say. The issue of living what we preach came up first; often that's going to take crying out to God for help in order to do so. Without that kind of integrity, we lose our good witness and end up ashamed. God comes through with aid when we're committed to actually doing the Word, not just reading it and talking about it.
The issues of "intermarrying with pagans" and "sexual immorality" got a lot of attention: these are obviously really important to the Lord. With the Old and New Testament passages juxtaposed like this, I got a clearer understanding of what the Lord is trying to say, at least to me right now. I think as Christians, we mostly know we're not to marry outside of Christ, or have sex outside of marriage. But I think we can apply this to ourselves in a deeper understanding of intimacy and partnership. We shouldn't be birthing anything of mixed spiritual seed (children of the devil birthing something together with children of God; birthing something that's partly of the devil and partly of God). We shouldn't even take the risk of that kind of illegitimate relationship -- it creates all sorts of trouble.
On the other hand, the Apostle Paul made it clear that the Lord wasn't telling us to go around judging the world for its idolatrous and sexually immoral behavior, or for all the rest of the things he listed (and there is so much more)! God's got it covered. He said he wasn't even telling us to avoid contact with the people in the world, "since then you would need to go out of the world." How could we be a witness in the world if we're not allowed to hang around with people in the world?
If you'll think about it for a minute, Jesus came down out of a holy heaven and entered into a very sinful world, in human form, to hang out with us sinful people. It wasn't because He loved the sin! Obviously He doesn't! He came because He loves people, and He wanted to share God's good news with them. He wanted to give them a way out of the sin, and a way to escape the corruption in the world and the judgement of the world that is to come. He is the Way, and He made it possible for us to see that.
Now it's up to us to do the same. He never engaged in the sinful behavior, however. He was always Himself, yet He made Himself accessible. He was engaging without compromise. Jesus is the best example of how to do godly social networking. Not only that, He's given us His Spirit to help us do it right.
Paul brought up a major issue about how to deal with people who call themselves Christians and don't live like it (and it seems to me that he is talking about habitual lifestyle, not just mistakes, since he called them "evil people"!). As I said before, we should not be one of those. But here we see that we shouldn't even hang around with one of those! Does this seem contradictory? Hang out with the sinners in the world, but don't hang out with the sinners in the Church.
Well, think about it. First, there's the possibility that it might be an imposter (poser, infiltrator), possibly a wolf. Or it could be a person under the influence of a Jezebel spirit. Any of these types are stalking around looking to lead people astray and devour them. Someone doing immoral things within the body of Christ ends up leading others to do the same, usually the lambs. It despoils the testimony of the Church, and it grieves the Spirit of God. The Church is about oneness with God and each other. God will not be one with evil! There may be other reasons besides these. Whatever the reasons for God saying it's a big deal, Paul makes it clear that it's dangerous and that we are to take action. Yes, we are to judge it. We are to disengage from fellowship with them, and we are not to associate. [If you have read further in the letters of Paul, you will see that this choice is to be redemptive always].
As you can see, the things we read in Scripture are very relevant and applicable to our daily lives. I received some clear instruction today, and some things on which to seek God further. I hope you did too.
Questions to ponder:
How committed are you to obeying what the Word of God teaches?
What do you do when you are up against a compromising situation?
Have you ever gotten too involved with an unbeliever? How did that turn out?
How much say does God have in your own social networking practices?
How does God's Word affect how you relate to people in the world? people in the church? Is He calling for any change in these areas?
Have you ever had to give up a Christian friend because they were living a sinful lifestyle? What would tell someone facing that type of choice?
Saturday, July 31, 2010
July 31, 2010 Suddenly
One of the reasons we're told not to judge others on "doubtful matters"-- things that aren't stated outright in Scripture-- is that we don't know what God is working on with someone else. We don't even know that about ourselves so often. Because Christ is the Author and Finisher of our faith, it is His job to decide what needs to be changed when. Our job is receive one another, accept one another, and live according to the law of love in order not to trouble others with our mode of life. That is hard enough without trying to fix others.
If any correction needs to happen, let it be done by those with the authority to do so, and let it be on the clear doctrines of Christ, such as fornication.
When King Hezekiah-- grieved by the spiritual adulteries perpetrated by his predecessor-- desired to bring the nation back to a right relationship with God and reinstate the temple worship, he didn't seem to dictate exactly how that was to be done. He exhorted the priests and Levites to consecrate themselves and to cleanse out the temple. He told them to take out the rubbish, but he left it to them to do the work. Since we each are a temple of the Holy Spirit, and each of us kings and priests unto the Lord, it is the Holy Spirit's task to lead each one of us as to how to cleanse ourselves from dead works. Some of the rubbish in our souls might be obvious to others, but some of it might look OK to someone else, but the Lord reveals to us that it's not OK for us. "Whatever is not of faith is sin." This is a basic key to walking in holiness (wholeness), but it really comes down to the individual working out their salvation with Christ's leading. We are all in different stages of our growth and development.
The mysterious thing is how the Spirit works in each of us, deep inside our hearts, to prepare us for the next stage. Sometimes we observe a brother or sister who seems to be wandering around in darkness, and then, voila! All of a sudden they seem to have snapped out of it, moving forward in a level of glory that might even pass us by temporarily. We should rejoice when that happens. It gives me hope to know that if I'm struggling in life, God's got it under control, and He's leading me step by step out of the maze of confusion and darkness that I might be in.
I think we can anticipate a sudden "coming round the bend" for the Church in general. God is doing a work in His people, much of it unseen. Christ is still the head of His body. He is still in charge of each individual's salvation process, and of the building of His Kingdom, living stone by living stone. Maybe at this moment some of the trash is being taken out of the temple in one person's life, and another is getting their instrument of praise polished up and ready to go. At the proper time, all will be in order and the glory of God will be seen in a unity, joy and love that is greater than has ever been seen before. This verse will again be very relevant: "All the people rejoiced that God had prepared the people, since the events took place so suddenly."
2 Chronicles 29:36
If any correction needs to happen, let it be done by those with the authority to do so, and let it be on the clear doctrines of Christ, such as fornication.
When King Hezekiah-- grieved by the spiritual adulteries perpetrated by his predecessor-- desired to bring the nation back to a right relationship with God and reinstate the temple worship, he didn't seem to dictate exactly how that was to be done. He exhorted the priests and Levites to consecrate themselves and to cleanse out the temple. He told them to take out the rubbish, but he left it to them to do the work. Since we each are a temple of the Holy Spirit, and each of us kings and priests unto the Lord, it is the Holy Spirit's task to lead each one of us as to how to cleanse ourselves from dead works. Some of the rubbish in our souls might be obvious to others, but some of it might look OK to someone else, but the Lord reveals to us that it's not OK for us. "Whatever is not of faith is sin." This is a basic key to walking in holiness (wholeness), but it really comes down to the individual working out their salvation with Christ's leading. We are all in different stages of our growth and development.
The mysterious thing is how the Spirit works in each of us, deep inside our hearts, to prepare us for the next stage. Sometimes we observe a brother or sister who seems to be wandering around in darkness, and then, voila! All of a sudden they seem to have snapped out of it, moving forward in a level of glory that might even pass us by temporarily. We should rejoice when that happens. It gives me hope to know that if I'm struggling in life, God's got it under control, and He's leading me step by step out of the maze of confusion and darkness that I might be in.
I think we can anticipate a sudden "coming round the bend" for the Church in general. God is doing a work in His people, much of it unseen. Christ is still the head of His body. He is still in charge of each individual's salvation process, and of the building of His Kingdom, living stone by living stone. Maybe at this moment some of the trash is being taken out of the temple in one person's life, and another is getting their instrument of praise polished up and ready to go. At the proper time, all will be in order and the glory of God will be seen in a unity, joy and love that is greater than has ever been seen before. This verse will again be very relevant: "All the people rejoiced that God had prepared the people, since the events took place so suddenly."
2 Chronicles 29:36
Friday, July 30, 2010
July 30, 2010 Wearing The Armor of Light
I never noticed before that the passage which says to "put on Christ" is the same passage that says to "put on the armor of light." I think that's awesome! In order to wear this armor, we have to put off the works of darkness. These works are related to being asleep, as the world is. When we're awake, we're walking in love, and this isn't compatible with the works of the flesh, which is the self-centeredness of the fallen nature. Once we've awakened to the reality of our salvation, and we get dressed with the brilliant glory of Christ, what darkness can overcome us?
Again, I'm struck with the prophetic vision of David. He had a relationship with Christ even then, and understood the armor of light. He had no need to fear when he found himself in a dark valley shadowed with evil, enemies, and death. "Dwelling in the house of the Lord forever" takes on a deeper meaning when we understand that it's not necessary to get rid of our natural bodies in order to live in a divine tent of perpetual light that goes wherever we go.
"You are with me" becomes a little more intimate when we're thinking of wearing Christ! It also becomes more public. There's no hiding our salvation or our relationship with the Savior when we're wearing the armor of light! The days of "my faith is personal" (meaning "I don't share it with anyone") are over! When you're dressed in light, can you help but be noticed by people who are in the dark? They might be afraid and run away, but many will be drawn to the light that covers you.
Jesus lives in us by His Word and Spirit when we're born again. But salvation has to be more than just an inner belief, as we have discussed earlier. Having light than shines out from the inside and covers us from the outside is the only effective way to be a witness for Christ. If you're dark, you stay hidden in darkness and nobody notices you. Not to mention how Jesus feels about that! The times we walk around incognito are basically times we're denying that we know Him. I'm not saying we have to be religious about our witnessing! I've known people who talked a lot about the Lord, but were essentially walking in darkness. I've been there myself-- and as "easy" as it is to be asleep, being in the dark is torment when you're a child a God.
The devil feeds on "dust" (Genesis 3:14) which is our self-nature; when we don't put off the works of darkness, he can get us even more entangled in webs of deception, addiction and bitterness than we were before we got "saved." When he's prowling around looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8), he's looking for someone who's not defended, not wearing their armor of light. When we're walking in love, and therefore in the light, we're well defended and have nothing to fear.
Putting our armor on is much more than a morning ritual! Just declaring that we have put on our helmet of salvation, etc., isn't what gets us clothed in light! It's waking up to what salvation really is, and making a command decision to leave the darkness behind. It's called repentance.
We are the children of light! The true light lives in us. Christ's love is shiny and wonderfully resistant to attack. Let's start a fashion trend and wear the light! Shine, shine, shine!
Again, I'm struck with the prophetic vision of David. He had a relationship with Christ even then, and understood the armor of light. He had no need to fear when he found himself in a dark valley shadowed with evil, enemies, and death. "Dwelling in the house of the Lord forever" takes on a deeper meaning when we understand that it's not necessary to get rid of our natural bodies in order to live in a divine tent of perpetual light that goes wherever we go.
"You are with me" becomes a little more intimate when we're thinking of wearing Christ! It also becomes more public. There's no hiding our salvation or our relationship with the Savior when we're wearing the armor of light! The days of "my faith is personal" (meaning "I don't share it with anyone") are over! When you're dressed in light, can you help but be noticed by people who are in the dark? They might be afraid and run away, but many will be drawn to the light that covers you.
Jesus lives in us by His Word and Spirit when we're born again. But salvation has to be more than just an inner belief, as we have discussed earlier. Having light than shines out from the inside and covers us from the outside is the only effective way to be a witness for Christ. If you're dark, you stay hidden in darkness and nobody notices you. Not to mention how Jesus feels about that! The times we walk around incognito are basically times we're denying that we know Him. I'm not saying we have to be religious about our witnessing! I've known people who talked a lot about the Lord, but were essentially walking in darkness. I've been there myself-- and as "easy" as it is to be asleep, being in the dark is torment when you're a child a God.
The devil feeds on "dust" (Genesis 3:14) which is our self-nature; when we don't put off the works of darkness, he can get us even more entangled in webs of deception, addiction and bitterness than we were before we got "saved." When he's prowling around looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8), he's looking for someone who's not defended, not wearing their armor of light. When we're walking in love, and therefore in the light, we're well defended and have nothing to fear.
Putting our armor on is much more than a morning ritual! Just declaring that we have put on our helmet of salvation, etc., isn't what gets us clothed in light! It's waking up to what salvation really is, and making a command decision to leave the darkness behind. It's called repentance.
We are the children of light! The true light lives in us. Christ's love is shiny and wonderfully resistant to attack. Let's start a fashion trend and wear the light! Shine, shine, shine!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
July 29, 2010 The Rechargeable Sacrifice
Reading Paul's exhortations today was like getting a Christian checklist; on the top of the list to me was "get recharged." If we're to be effective witnesses in the world-- who overcome evil with good and don't conform to the world-- we have to function first as members of Christ's body. We won't be living sacrifices for long if we don't get recharged! This checklist is all about staying in proper connection with the body of Christ. Giving and receiving of all things in the Lord is what recharges us. A loner in the Kingdom won't make it for long. It's a joy to be a living sacrifice, as long as we are full of life, and that takes replenishment. Just as a cell phone will only be useful so long without getting plugged into its base, a Christian will only be an effective witness if he or she gets plugged into the body for recharge. We're made that way.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
July 17, 2010 The Robe of Righteousness
God's ideas about righteousness are very different from the ones we come up with as human beings. God says righteousness can only be received, by believing Him. He says there's nothing we can do, even from the Mosaic law, to make us righteous. If we want to be accepted by God, we're going to have to come to Him on His terms. We can't go before His throne of grace in filthy rags (our own efforts to be righteous). We have to go before Him in a robe of righteousness. We are given this robe when we receive Christ as our savior. His righteousness is placed on us, and then we are clothed properly.
When we are in right standing with the Father based on our faith in Christ, we can then come before Him in our time of need (which is all the time, isn't it?). Now that we have been given a right relationship with the Father God through Christ our Brother, we are going to have the opportunity to grow up in Him. The end result is people who are just like Jesus, walking in righteousness that flows from the inside out because He lives in us. This delights the Father, but it is never what makes us right with Him.
When we are in right standing with the Father based on our faith in Christ, we can then come before Him in our time of need (which is all the time, isn't it?). Now that we have been given a right relationship with the Father God through Christ our Brother, we are going to have the opportunity to grow up in Him. The end result is people who are just like Jesus, walking in righteousness that flows from the inside out because He lives in us. This delights the Father, but it is never what makes us right with Him.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010 A Little Lower Than God
A big difference, you'll notice, between godly people and the ungodly, is the people of God honor people; the ungodly do not. Although people who don't fear God will idolize others, they'll just as soon tear them down with ridicule. God's people will honor others, whether they deserve it or not, even after they're dead. A key reason for this is that people were made by God in His image, and are His property. If we dishonor others, we dishonor God.
Psalm 8 is one of the most "incredibly" edifying Scripture passages I know. It really does seem incredible to us to think that God would think of us at all, much less visit us, speak to us, and crown us with honor and glory. It is so difficult for fallen humans to accept that He made us "a little lower than God," that the word elohim is often translated here as "angels," even though it's the same Hebrew word used in Genesis 1:1-- God created the heavens and the earth. Yes, we had fallen below the angels, but Jesus Christ has been raised up above all, and we are part of His body, even if we are only His feet.
God has always given honor to even the lowliest of positions in service to Him. I hadn't really taken notice of this verse before: "Mattithiah of the Levites, the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the trusted office over the things that were baked in the pans." 1 Chronicles 9:31 NKJV Whatever we do, God sees and rewards faithfulness when we're doing it as unto the Lord. Giving others appreciation and affirmation is a way of thanking and praising the Lord. When we consider that each of His children are part of His body, it is easier to honor and affirm them.
Even the ungodly carry the image of God in them, no matter how sullied and twisted, and they might still become part of God's kingdom. It is extremely unbecoming of God's people to put others down in a disgusted fashion, but I see this happening so much in the name of "righteousness." How are we ever to win the lost to Christ if we do not treat people with respect, even if they are sinners? Hating sin is not the same as despising people. God so loved the world. . .
The Apostle Paul was a faithful watcher, even on a tempest-tossed ship. He apparently interceded for everyone, not only to save his own skin. He was visited by an angel to bring the answer to his request-- everyone's life would be spared. There were sailors, soldiers, prisoners, a Roman centurion-- 276 people in all. Many of these must have given their lives to the Lord after that. To me, now, this number will always signify that God values life, even the life of unbelievers.
It is up to us, His people, to watch and pray. The world system is a sinking ship: but God already has a plan in place to save as many souls as will cling to His saving grace.
Psalm 8 is one of the most "incredibly" edifying Scripture passages I know. It really does seem incredible to us to think that God would think of us at all, much less visit us, speak to us, and crown us with honor and glory. It is so difficult for fallen humans to accept that He made us "a little lower than God," that the word elohim is often translated here as "angels," even though it's the same Hebrew word used in Genesis 1:1-- God created the heavens and the earth. Yes, we had fallen below the angels, but Jesus Christ has been raised up above all, and we are part of His body, even if we are only His feet.
God has always given honor to even the lowliest of positions in service to Him. I hadn't really taken notice of this verse before: "Mattithiah of the Levites, the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the trusted office over the things that were baked in the pans." 1 Chronicles 9:31 NKJV Whatever we do, God sees and rewards faithfulness when we're doing it as unto the Lord. Giving others appreciation and affirmation is a way of thanking and praising the Lord. When we consider that each of His children are part of His body, it is easier to honor and affirm them.
Even the ungodly carry the image of God in them, no matter how sullied and twisted, and they might still become part of God's kingdom. It is extremely unbecoming of God's people to put others down in a disgusted fashion, but I see this happening so much in the name of "righteousness." How are we ever to win the lost to Christ if we do not treat people with respect, even if they are sinners? Hating sin is not the same as despising people. God so loved the world. . .
The Apostle Paul was a faithful watcher, even on a tempest-tossed ship. He apparently interceded for everyone, not only to save his own skin. He was visited by an angel to bring the answer to his request-- everyone's life would be spared. There were sailors, soldiers, prisoners, a Roman centurion-- 276 people in all. Many of these must have given their lives to the Lord after that. To me, now, this number will always signify that God values life, even the life of unbelievers.
It is up to us, His people, to watch and pray. The world system is a sinking ship: but God already has a plan in place to save as many souls as will cling to His saving grace.
Friday, June 25, 2010
June 25, 2010 Earth-Shaking Praise
Our trials and tribulations always have redemptive purposes! We can be assured of this because, when we belong to God, He uses everything for good. We have our share of responsibility, I think, in releasing God's redemptive purpose into our sphere of influence. From reading about Paul and Silas in prison, I realize that praising and glorifying God in the midst of trouble and persecution can be the sign that points people to Christ.
Even when our sufferings are entirely private, praising God with abandon is a key to victory. If we're practicing this when no one is looking, we'll be prepared for action when someone actually is. To me, having victory over my difficult circumstances is a good incentive to do what I know: praise God with my whole heart-- which is a pleasing sacrifice. The thought that I might be practicing for the future-- that other people might be brought into the Kingdom because I glorified God while I suffered-- gives my present trials even more meaning. I might even be able to embrace them with gusto!
Even when our sufferings are entirely private, praising God with abandon is a key to victory. If we're practicing this when no one is looking, we'll be prepared for action when someone actually is. To me, having victory over my difficult circumstances is a good incentive to do what I know: praise God with my whole heart-- which is a pleasing sacrifice. The thought that I might be practicing for the future-- that other people might be brought into the Kingdom because I glorified God while I suffered-- gives my present trials even more meaning. I might even be able to embrace them with gusto!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
June 24, 2010 Facing Up
Do you ever wonder why the Scriptures are so full of supernatural happenings, and yet our lives (most of them anyway) are so NOT? I do! Maybe having an ordinary life is all you want, so I guess if that's what you have, you should keep up doing what you're doing to have it that way. But me, I'm not satisfied with ordinary. I don't see anywhere in Scripture, either in the Old or New Testaments, where life with God is ordinary. It seems that anywhere He is, there is something going on that is out-of-this-world!
When I read accounts of people in the Bible having supernatural interactions with God (and doesn't that seem to be a regular thing in our readings?) a growing hunger arises in my spirit for the things of heaven, and I wonder why my life seems so earthbound. While I've been "on vacation," the Lord's been speaking to me about why I'm not experiencing as much of Him as I'd like, or even as much as I used to. I have been getting too much earthly input, and not enough heavenly! Realizing this, I decided to watch some videos from ministries I trust. All the messages I heard seemed to say the same thing (and one of them even quoted today's passage from Kings!): we should be having greater revelation and prophetic experiences than ever, and we are going to need them; and that if we want to see heaven, then heaven is what we should put before our eyes. I'm being reminded of what I knew before: whatever we focus on is what we eventually experience.
I had an inkling that Proverbs 17:24* was related to this, and when I ventured to look it up in the Hebrew, I was amazed at how much is missing in translation! I'm not going to go into a long explanation, so you'll just have to look it up for yourself. But this is the message that jumped out at me: If you face heaven, then you'll see heaven and you'll gain wisdom and understanding; but if you face earth, then all you'll see is earthly things, and you'll end up a fool.
That seems pretty simple and straightforward, doesn't it? Basically, we choose our experience of life by where we place our focus. Admittedly, it's easy to get our focus off onto meaningless and temporary things, or even "earth-shattering" events. But if we want to live the life Christ intended for us, we need to get our focus on Him and on His Kingdom. I am making the needed adjustments. You?
*"Wisdom is in the sight of him who has understanding, But the eyes of a fool are on the ends of the earth." Proverbs 17: 24-25 NKJV
When I read accounts of people in the Bible having supernatural interactions with God (and doesn't that seem to be a regular thing in our readings?) a growing hunger arises in my spirit for the things of heaven, and I wonder why my life seems so earthbound. While I've been "on vacation," the Lord's been speaking to me about why I'm not experiencing as much of Him as I'd like, or even as much as I used to. I have been getting too much earthly input, and not enough heavenly! Realizing this, I decided to watch some videos from ministries I trust. All the messages I heard seemed to say the same thing (and one of them even quoted today's passage from Kings!): we should be having greater revelation and prophetic experiences than ever, and we are going to need them; and that if we want to see heaven, then heaven is what we should put before our eyes. I'm being reminded of what I knew before: whatever we focus on is what we eventually experience.
I had an inkling that Proverbs 17:24* was related to this, and when I ventured to look it up in the Hebrew, I was amazed at how much is missing in translation! I'm not going to go into a long explanation, so you'll just have to look it up for yourself. But this is the message that jumped out at me: If you face heaven, then you'll see heaven and you'll gain wisdom and understanding; but if you face earth, then all you'll see is earthly things, and you'll end up a fool.
That seems pretty simple and straightforward, doesn't it? Basically, we choose our experience of life by where we place our focus. Admittedly, it's easy to get our focus off onto meaningless and temporary things, or even "earth-shattering" events. But if we want to live the life Christ intended for us, we need to get our focus on Him and on His Kingdom. I am making the needed adjustments. You?
*"Wisdom is in the sight of him who has understanding, But the eyes of a fool are on the ends of the earth." Proverbs 17: 24-25 NKJV
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
June 16, 2010 Politics, Prophets and Provision
It's troubling to me to read about the dreadful split between Judah and Israel, and of the horrendous works of the evil kings. It makes me sad to realize it was all due to Solomon's wandering heart and idolatry later in his life. With all his wisdom, he should have known better. It just goes to show that "you can fall from any level," as Rick Joyner said in The Final Quest. How serious we need to be in maintaining the fear of the Lord, and a pure love for Him and His Word!
All the turmoil of those Old Testament days reminds me of modern times, even of American politics. If you look just under the surface of current events, you will see the seeds of civil war. The trouble is, so many of the issues are spiritual, just as they were back in Ahab's day. God's people today seem to have just as much trouble in dealing with ungodliness in society and government as they did in Bible times. Why is that, I wonder? Do you think, perhaps, that most of us are just too concerned with trying to survive to do anything to confront the evils that are trying to gain power over us, individually and as a nation? [and I'm not talking about "rebellion," I'm talking about submitting to God and following Him.]
In order to be free from evil domination, we will have to be willing to see what is really happening around us and to us. We will have to be willing to see evil, not close our eyes to it. Seeing it and liking it, or just going along with it (as well as simply closing our eyes to it), is what leads us into slavery. Seeing it and hating it is the beginning of getting free.
God expects us to love what He loves and hate what He hates. This, of course, must be established in our own personal life, but after that, what? I would say, no matter what, start with prayer. Prayer is the launch pad. None of us will know what He is doing, or what we ourselves are to do, without seeking the Lord in prayer. If you don't really trust God, now's the time to dig down into the Word and get your roots planted into Him. Every time you obey Him, you get a little more rooted. You're going to have to trust Him in order to stand godly in the evil day.
The truth is, while Christ's Kingdom is being established on earth, the worldly kingdoms are crumbling. Can you feel the foundations being shaken? Do you see the chaos beginning to take hold of the world's systems? Of course, all those with worldly power, not to mention the evil spiritual entities that hold sway over the nations, are trying to tighten their grip. Controls will strengthen, and when people rebel against control, flattery will try to win them-- but only so that even greater control can be exercised. There's no getting away from this. It's the times we're in! That's why it's so important to see the Kingdom of God and go for it. It's time to see what kingdoms are what, and choose.
Whatever you're called to do in the Kingdom of God, God has provision for you. It takes a lot of courage to take a stand for God in evil times, or even to support one who openly does. But as Jesus said, Be not afraid! We saw how the Lord provided for Elijah-- He sent ravens to feed him! Then He asked a poor widow to care for him, and miraculously provided for her too. Not only was there enough food for them, but there was also provision for healing (her son was raised). Even if the Lord were to call for judgments (such as famine) against an idolatrous nation, His people will be provided for if they will trust Him and obey Him.
As we read in the story of Peter and Cornelius, the Lord even has communications covered: prayer, the leading of the Holy Spirit, visions, and angelic visitations will keep God's people "in the know" and the Kingdom of God running according to His plan. And remember how Stephen got transported by the Spirit, and he just found himself somewhere? Who needs cars, planes, cell phones and the internet when you have such efficient modes of communication and travel? We might as well get used to it-- we're called to live in a supernatural Kingdom! It's not science fiction, it's real! We'll see more and more of it as the return of the King draws nearer.
I know it's normal to say, "Well, I'm not Elijah! Maybe that guy over there is!" but each of us has been given a place of authority in our life, whether large or small; and in this place of rule, we are each called to declare the Word of the Lord and to resist evil, no matter what the apparent cost. We must trust the Lord to provide all that is needed, even when the world from which we have been gaining our support is falling down around our ears.
"And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead." Acts 10:42
All the turmoil of those Old Testament days reminds me of modern times, even of American politics. If you look just under the surface of current events, you will see the seeds of civil war. The trouble is, so many of the issues are spiritual, just as they were back in Ahab's day. God's people today seem to have just as much trouble in dealing with ungodliness in society and government as they did in Bible times. Why is that, I wonder? Do you think, perhaps, that most of us are just too concerned with trying to survive to do anything to confront the evils that are trying to gain power over us, individually and as a nation? [and I'm not talking about "rebellion," I'm talking about submitting to God and following Him.]
In order to be free from evil domination, we will have to be willing to see what is really happening around us and to us. We will have to be willing to see evil, not close our eyes to it. Seeing it and liking it, or just going along with it (as well as simply closing our eyes to it), is what leads us into slavery. Seeing it and hating it is the beginning of getting free.
God expects us to love what He loves and hate what He hates. This, of course, must be established in our own personal life, but after that, what? I would say, no matter what, start with prayer. Prayer is the launch pad. None of us will know what He is doing, or what we ourselves are to do, without seeking the Lord in prayer. If you don't really trust God, now's the time to dig down into the Word and get your roots planted into Him. Every time you obey Him, you get a little more rooted. You're going to have to trust Him in order to stand godly in the evil day.
The truth is, while Christ's Kingdom is being established on earth, the worldly kingdoms are crumbling. Can you feel the foundations being shaken? Do you see the chaos beginning to take hold of the world's systems? Of course, all those with worldly power, not to mention the evil spiritual entities that hold sway over the nations, are trying to tighten their grip. Controls will strengthen, and when people rebel against control, flattery will try to win them-- but only so that even greater control can be exercised. There's no getting away from this. It's the times we're in! That's why it's so important to see the Kingdom of God and go for it. It's time to see what kingdoms are what, and choose.
Whatever you're called to do in the Kingdom of God, God has provision for you. It takes a lot of courage to take a stand for God in evil times, or even to support one who openly does. But as Jesus said, Be not afraid! We saw how the Lord provided for Elijah-- He sent ravens to feed him! Then He asked a poor widow to care for him, and miraculously provided for her too. Not only was there enough food for them, but there was also provision for healing (her son was raised). Even if the Lord were to call for judgments (such as famine) against an idolatrous nation, His people will be provided for if they will trust Him and obey Him.
As we read in the story of Peter and Cornelius, the Lord even has communications covered: prayer, the leading of the Holy Spirit, visions, and angelic visitations will keep God's people "in the know" and the Kingdom of God running according to His plan. And remember how Stephen got transported by the Spirit, and he just found himself somewhere? Who needs cars, planes, cell phones and the internet when you have such efficient modes of communication and travel? We might as well get used to it-- we're called to live in a supernatural Kingdom! It's not science fiction, it's real! We'll see more and more of it as the return of the King draws nearer.
I know it's normal to say, "Well, I'm not Elijah! Maybe that guy over there is!" but each of us has been given a place of authority in our life, whether large or small; and in this place of rule, we are each called to declare the Word of the Lord and to resist evil, no matter what the apparent cost. We must trust the Lord to provide all that is needed, even when the world from which we have been gaining our support is falling down around our ears.
"And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead." Acts 10:42
Thursday, June 3, 2010
June 3, 2010 Full Circle of Promise
It's like a heavenly "promise ring"-- as the Lord Jesus was taken up into heaven, so He will return. The disciples were gazing up into the heavens as He ascended before their very eyes. We are now in the position of gazing upwards, looking for His return. "Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near." Luke 21: 28 Jesus keeps His promises: He is coming for His bride!
Jesus' prayer for oneness is still resonating in my mind and spirit. When I read the opening lines of Acts, I feel the connection with the disciples. We embrace the promise of His return, and we will at last be together with all the saints.
Jesus kept His promise to empower the disciples as well, sending the Holy Spirit and fire, just as John the Baptist had prophesied. John answered, saying to all, "I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." Luke 3:16 We accept the Great Commission as including us as well as the Twelve. Why not, then, accept the promise of empowerment from on high? John the Baptist was saying that "to all," not just the Twelve. We are one with them, just as Jesus prayed. And it is not in Christ's character to send us out as witnesses without empowering us first.
The Apostles went before us and paved the way of faith and works. The promises they received and the works they did were for us too. They went first, building a foundation, showing us how to walk in the Spirit and serve Christ in the world. They ran the race with patience, and they passed us the torch. Let's honor them and glorify God by holding the torch high and finishing the race in faith and love.
Jesus' prayer for oneness is still resonating in my mind and spirit. When I read the opening lines of Acts, I feel the connection with the disciples. We embrace the promise of His return, and we will at last be together with all the saints.
Jesus kept His promise to empower the disciples as well, sending the Holy Spirit and fire, just as John the Baptist had prophesied. John answered, saying to all, "I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." Luke 3:16 We accept the Great Commission as including us as well as the Twelve. Why not, then, accept the promise of empowerment from on high? John the Baptist was saying that "to all," not just the Twelve. We are one with them, just as Jesus prayed. And it is not in Christ's character to send us out as witnesses without empowering us first.
The Apostles went before us and paved the way of faith and works. The promises they received and the works they did were for us too. They went first, building a foundation, showing us how to walk in the Spirit and serve Christ in the world. They ran the race with patience, and they passed us the torch. Let's honor them and glorify God by holding the torch high and finishing the race in faith and love.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
June 1, 2010 How to Light Up the King's Face
"In the light of the king’s face is life, and his favor is like a cloud of the latter rain." Proverbs 16:15 The promises in this proverb are great, and they induce me to want to "light up the king's face." So, how to do this?? I want God's life and favor. I'm getting a picture of the glory cloud in the day of the latter rain! I think I would like to walk in His glorious presence in this time. Don't you?
Jesus' response to Thomas, after His resurrection, gives us a wonderful clue as to how to excel in pleasing Him: Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20: 29 When we believe His Word, even when it comes through others, we please Him. He can work through faith. Jesus didn't condemn Thomas for needing to have proof, He just indicated that he wasn't going to be as blessed as those who believed without seeing.
The Apostle John was one of the disciples who believed Jesus had risen without first seeing Him in the body. Later on in his life, he was given heavenly visions that showed Christ in His kingly glory, as well as many things about the future. This is a kind of blessing that I would like to receive! When we only believe what we see with our eyes, we certainly limit our spiritual vision.
When we love Jesus enough to obey Him, this is when our faith can work (Gal. 5:6). We don't get proofs of His Word, most of the time, until after we have carried out His Word. We just have to obey. If our faith doesn't operate without signs or proofs, then our love is small and we will end up being disobedient. This, of course, is a way to NOT please the Lord, and then we don't have the flow of favor we are hoping for.
I realize that some of what I'm saying here could be taken as if God shows favoritism: but giving favor and practicing favoritism is not the same thing. God doesn't have "favorite children." He gives reward and disciplines us depending on what we need at any given time. Really, His discipline is favor, it just doesn't feel like it at the time it's happening. All His children have His favor (and this means His "born-again" children, not just His human creation). He still blesses everyone with His overflowing goodness, even unbelievers-- "He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good." (Matthew 5:45)
Here's a verse that makes it clear that there is a way to "light up the king's face": "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6 There's reward! Who doesn't like reward?
In order to diligently seek the Lord, we have to believe there is more than what we can see, and that God is desiring to give it. "Seeking" is looking for something we haven't found yet. If I were "seeking employment" or "seeking a soulmate," that means I believe there is a job out there that I could do, or a person with whom I could happily spend my life. I don't seek for things I don't believe exist.
The more I know God, the more I seek for Him, because He keeps telling me about things I haven't seen yet, things that are in Him. When I believe His Word-- whether I read it in the Bible, I hear it in a sermon, or the Holy Spirit whispers it in my heart-- I begin to "ask, seek and knock" for the thing I heard about. This is when I can receive. This is when I am blessed with that favor that was waiting right there in heaven with Christ.
The disciples were wonderfully blessed by having the opportunity to walk around with Jesus, see His miracles, and hear God's Word straight from His mouth. But we are even more blessed! Why? Since we don't have evidence of constant "seeing" and "touching," we have a greater opportunity to believe by pure faith (which is itself the "evidence of things not seen" Hebrews 11:1). Therefore, WE have the opportunity to "light up the king's face" with our faith in Him and His Word. This opens the door to greater blessings and favor than you or I can even imagine.
Jesus' response to Thomas, after His resurrection, gives us a wonderful clue as to how to excel in pleasing Him: Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20: 29 When we believe His Word, even when it comes through others, we please Him. He can work through faith. Jesus didn't condemn Thomas for needing to have proof, He just indicated that he wasn't going to be as blessed as those who believed without seeing.
The Apostle John was one of the disciples who believed Jesus had risen without first seeing Him in the body. Later on in his life, he was given heavenly visions that showed Christ in His kingly glory, as well as many things about the future. This is a kind of blessing that I would like to receive! When we only believe what we see with our eyes, we certainly limit our spiritual vision.
When we love Jesus enough to obey Him, this is when our faith can work (Gal. 5:6). We don't get proofs of His Word, most of the time, until after we have carried out His Word. We just have to obey. If our faith doesn't operate without signs or proofs, then our love is small and we will end up being disobedient. This, of course, is a way to NOT please the Lord, and then we don't have the flow of favor we are hoping for.
I realize that some of what I'm saying here could be taken as if God shows favoritism: but giving favor and practicing favoritism is not the same thing. God doesn't have "favorite children." He gives reward and disciplines us depending on what we need at any given time. Really, His discipline is favor, it just doesn't feel like it at the time it's happening. All His children have His favor (and this means His "born-again" children, not just His human creation). He still blesses everyone with His overflowing goodness, even unbelievers-- "He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good." (Matthew 5:45)
Here's a verse that makes it clear that there is a way to "light up the king's face": "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6 There's reward! Who doesn't like reward?
In order to diligently seek the Lord, we have to believe there is more than what we can see, and that God is desiring to give it. "Seeking" is looking for something we haven't found yet. If I were "seeking employment" or "seeking a soulmate," that means I believe there is a job out there that I could do, or a person with whom I could happily spend my life. I don't seek for things I don't believe exist.
The more I know God, the more I seek for Him, because He keeps telling me about things I haven't seen yet, things that are in Him. When I believe His Word-- whether I read it in the Bible, I hear it in a sermon, or the Holy Spirit whispers it in my heart-- I begin to "ask, seek and knock" for the thing I heard about. This is when I can receive. This is when I am blessed with that favor that was waiting right there in heaven with Christ.
The disciples were wonderfully blessed by having the opportunity to walk around with Jesus, see His miracles, and hear God's Word straight from His mouth. But we are even more blessed! Why? Since we don't have evidence of constant "seeing" and "touching," we have a greater opportunity to believe by pure faith (which is itself the "evidence of things not seen" Hebrews 11:1). Therefore, WE have the opportunity to "light up the king's face" with our faith in Him and His Word. This opens the door to greater blessings and favor than you or I can even imagine.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
May 29, 2010 The Method of Merciful Exposure
Reading the Bible, especially the Old Testament, can sometimes feel like wending our way through the darkest recesses of the human psyche, groping for answers. While in the obscurity of waywardness and hidden motives, I am glad to be reminded that, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalm 119: 105. This is all here for my instruction: teach me, Holy Spirit!
The human tendency is to gloat over other people's wrongdoings, which must explain the preponderance of evil in human storytelling: well, at least I'm not as bad as all that, we think-- and are therefore justified in our own minds. Holy Spirit's reasons for taking us through the darkness of history includes freeing us from our own darkness. We must admit it when He shows it to us. Yes, it's there, and I am not free from it yet. It's so hard for us to admit that the same depravity that caused Absalom to do the things he did, that caused Judas to betray Jesus, and Peter to deny Him, still lives in our own heart to some degree. Until we are completely changed into the likeness of Christ, we still have darkness within.
One of the hardest things for me to understand has been how the Lord seems to allow sin to run its full course. We ache for others when they are on a path of darkness, yearning to "fix" it and get them on the right track before it's too late. Often, we can only pray. In my own personal experience, I know the Lord begins to whisper to each one of us of our heart condition before it has ever caused us to stray. Holy Spirit desires to enlighten our darkness with His holy light and to lead us onto the right path.
I find this is one of the most important functions of Scripture-- to give us wisdom without us having to go through our own experience of failure. He will point to someone else's mess and say, look, there's the seed of that in your own heart. If we are humble and willing to agree with Him, He grants us repentance and cleansing. He shows us the Light we need in order to overcome that darkness and avoid the twisted path of wickedness. But if we are proud and stubborn, this hidden depravity of soul will reveal itself through more and more obvious behavior, until everyone around us knows about it, often leaving us blind to it ourself. How many of us have to totally "hit bottom" before we will turn our sin over to God? It is God's patient mercy that allows our sin to run full course.
Eventually, I got tired of rejecting Holy Spirit's private whispering that would preserve me from public humiliation. I listen to Him now. I learned the hard way, though, I have to admit. I am so grateful for His love that covers a multitude of sins. Sins I never have to commit!
The human tendency is to gloat over other people's wrongdoings, which must explain the preponderance of evil in human storytelling: well, at least I'm not as bad as all that, we think-- and are therefore justified in our own minds. Holy Spirit's reasons for taking us through the darkness of history includes freeing us from our own darkness. We must admit it when He shows it to us. Yes, it's there, and I am not free from it yet. It's so hard for us to admit that the same depravity that caused Absalom to do the things he did, that caused Judas to betray Jesus, and Peter to deny Him, still lives in our own heart to some degree. Until we are completely changed into the likeness of Christ, we still have darkness within.
One of the hardest things for me to understand has been how the Lord seems to allow sin to run its full course. We ache for others when they are on a path of darkness, yearning to "fix" it and get them on the right track before it's too late. Often, we can only pray. In my own personal experience, I know the Lord begins to whisper to each one of us of our heart condition before it has ever caused us to stray. Holy Spirit desires to enlighten our darkness with His holy light and to lead us onto the right path.
I find this is one of the most important functions of Scripture-- to give us wisdom without us having to go through our own experience of failure. He will point to someone else's mess and say, look, there's the seed of that in your own heart. If we are humble and willing to agree with Him, He grants us repentance and cleansing. He shows us the Light we need in order to overcome that darkness and avoid the twisted path of wickedness. But if we are proud and stubborn, this hidden depravity of soul will reveal itself through more and more obvious behavior, until everyone around us knows about it, often leaving us blind to it ourself. How many of us have to totally "hit bottom" before we will turn our sin over to God? It is God's patient mercy that allows our sin to run full course.
Eventually, I got tired of rejecting Holy Spirit's private whispering that would preserve me from public humiliation. I listen to Him now. I learned the hard way, though, I have to admit. I am so grateful for His love that covers a multitude of sins. Sins I never have to commit!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
May 11, 2010 How God Deals With Rejection
There's not a lot you can do when people decide to reject God. If He doesn't force them to accept Him, then how can we presume to do so? In today's passages, we have two examples of people rejecting God, and how He responded to them. Since we humans get rejected now and again, I'd say we could learn something from His example.
The people of Israel wanted a king so they could be like all the other nations (I think this indicates they were a little out-of-sync with God, as He wanted them to be different from all the other nations). Samuel got instructions from the Lord as to what to do about this (he's one of my Bible heroes: he was so accurate in hearing, seeing and speaking God's word!), and the Lord led him to the king who was to be anointed. Now, taking into consideration that the people got what they wanted, this is what Samuel said to them: "But you have today rejected your God, who Himself saved you from all your adversities and your tribulations; and you have said to Him, ‘No, set a king over us!’ Now therefore, present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and by your clans.” 1 Samuel 10:19 This says to me right away that just because we may have gotten what we asked for doesn't mean that God was pleased with us!
God wanted to be Israel's king Himself, and how could they have had a better one? Even though their rejection of Him was "covert" (not direct), He identified their true condition as rejecting of Him, and He expressed His displeasure to them. Nevertheless, I believe God's heart was to bless the people on whatever level they could accept, so He provided them a king to lead them and deliver them from their enemies. God did not abandon them. He even gave Saul the experience of being "possessed by God's Spirit" so that he had enough knowledge to call upon God to be empowered. Apparently he did so, at least at first.
Now, what did Jesus do when He was rejected? Again, people were often covert in their rejection of Him, yet He always knew what was in their hearts, and He gave them many chances to change their minds. And again, most of the people were only looking to have their physical needs met and weren't looking at things from a heavenly (spiritual) perspective. They wanted Jesus to give them more bread, even demanding that He prove Himself with a miracle of giving them heavenly manna. He told them that He Himself was the "bread from heaven" that would give them eternal life, but the people got offended with Him and stopped following Him. Jesus didn't do the rejecting, but He didn't let Himself be manipulated either. He just told the truth and let the people make a choice.
Jesus didn't reject the people back-- He kept going to their towns preaching, teaching and healing until it was His time to lay down His life for them. He didn't go around flailing them with "bitter diatribes", although I'm sure Jesus was grieved. He also didn't fire Judas from being a disciple: but He did confront Him with His inward rejection. I'm sure Judas had many chances to repent before he gave in to Satan and betrayed Jesus. But Jesus was no dupe; He knew about it all the time.
You wonder how people can reject a God so great and glorious as He is. How can people reject Jesus Christ who offers us forgiveness, salvation on all levels, and eternal life!? Many reject Him outright, and many more reject Him covertly. As a nation, it seems we have rejected God's rule over us and demanded a king. How will that turn out, I wonder? Most seem to reject the Lord Jesus for who He actually is and what He actually said, choosing rather to believe in a Jesus and a Christianity that they have made up themselves to suit their own preferences. And yet, God still loves them and blesses them as much as they will allow. This is our example of how to treat people who reject us. Confront first, as you see God and Jesus did in both examples; do not reject back. However, the intimacy and "top shelf" blessings are reserved for those who accept Him wholeheartedly.
How often do we do covertly reject God, and maybe don't even realize it? I am going to ask Him if I'm doing that in any way. I hope not, but if I am, I know He will be faithful to show me and offer me forgiveness and restoration. Read the Psalm! God responds to us when we repent and call out to Him. Over and over.
The people of Israel wanted a king so they could be like all the other nations (I think this indicates they were a little out-of-sync with God, as He wanted them to be different from all the other nations). Samuel got instructions from the Lord as to what to do about this (he's one of my Bible heroes: he was so accurate in hearing, seeing and speaking God's word!), and the Lord led him to the king who was to be anointed. Now, taking into consideration that the people got what they wanted, this is what Samuel said to them: "But you have today rejected your God, who Himself saved you from all your adversities and your tribulations; and you have said to Him, ‘No, set a king over us!’ Now therefore, present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and by your clans.” 1 Samuel 10:19 This says to me right away that just because we may have gotten what we asked for doesn't mean that God was pleased with us!
God wanted to be Israel's king Himself, and how could they have had a better one? Even though their rejection of Him was "covert" (not direct), He identified their true condition as rejecting of Him, and He expressed His displeasure to them. Nevertheless, I believe God's heart was to bless the people on whatever level they could accept, so He provided them a king to lead them and deliver them from their enemies. God did not abandon them. He even gave Saul the experience of being "possessed by God's Spirit" so that he had enough knowledge to call upon God to be empowered. Apparently he did so, at least at first.
Now, what did Jesus do when He was rejected? Again, people were often covert in their rejection of Him, yet He always knew what was in their hearts, and He gave them many chances to change their minds. And again, most of the people were only looking to have their physical needs met and weren't looking at things from a heavenly (spiritual) perspective. They wanted Jesus to give them more bread, even demanding that He prove Himself with a miracle of giving them heavenly manna. He told them that He Himself was the "bread from heaven" that would give them eternal life, but the people got offended with Him and stopped following Him. Jesus didn't do the rejecting, but He didn't let Himself be manipulated either. He just told the truth and let the people make a choice.
Jesus didn't reject the people back-- He kept going to their towns preaching, teaching and healing until it was His time to lay down His life for them. He didn't go around flailing them with "bitter diatribes", although I'm sure Jesus was grieved. He also didn't fire Judas from being a disciple: but He did confront Him with His inward rejection. I'm sure Judas had many chances to repent before he gave in to Satan and betrayed Jesus. But Jesus was no dupe; He knew about it all the time.
You wonder how people can reject a God so great and glorious as He is. How can people reject Jesus Christ who offers us forgiveness, salvation on all levels, and eternal life!? Many reject Him outright, and many more reject Him covertly. As a nation, it seems we have rejected God's rule over us and demanded a king. How will that turn out, I wonder? Most seem to reject the Lord Jesus for who He actually is and what He actually said, choosing rather to believe in a Jesus and a Christianity that they have made up themselves to suit their own preferences. And yet, God still loves them and blesses them as much as they will allow. This is our example of how to treat people who reject us. Confront first, as you see God and Jesus did in both examples; do not reject back. However, the intimacy and "top shelf" blessings are reserved for those who accept Him wholeheartedly.
How often do we do covertly reject God, and maybe don't even realize it? I am going to ask Him if I'm doing that in any way. I hope not, but if I am, I know He will be faithful to show me and offer me forgiveness and restoration. Read the Psalm! God responds to us when we repent and call out to Him. Over and over.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
May 6, 2010 The Seed of Blessing
I've always loved the story of Ruth and Boaz. Besides being a great study of ancient Hebrew culture, it is a powerful vision of the redemptive power of love. In Ruth's story, I see the law of increase at work, as words of blessing and acts of kindness are planted, growing into a harvest of favor and blessing. Ruth's words of blessing and acts of kindness towards Naomi, her mother-in-law, brought a harvest of favor to her through Boaz. Boaz's words of blessing and acts of kindness to his own workers, family, and Ruth, a foreigner, brought him a harvest of favor and blessing from God. Together, these people who loved God, knew His goodness, and followed Him in word and deed, brought forth the Seed of blessing into the world. Through them came the earthly lineage of Jesus.
Then we see Jesus, walking through Cana of Galilee. He had already blessed them at the wedding, where He did his first miracle. Again He blessed them with His words, "Go your way; your son lives." Wherever He went, He sowed words of blessing and acts of kindness. Whoever believed Him reaped God's favor. Look how much increase had come down through Boaz and Ruth!
We are part of this lineage of blessing-- through Christ we have been grafted in. There has been no end to the increase of His Kingdom by His word and His power. His word is planted in us, and by faith, we can also receive the blessing and give it. As our character is established in Christ and our obedience is built by training and practice, we should see the same power of God's favor coming from the words of blessing and acts of kindness the Spirit prompts us to sow. If we could only get a hold of how overly-abundant-beyond-all-we-can-think-or-ask God's favor is through Christ, there would be no lack of provision, no lack of the power of God.
Then we see Jesus, walking through Cana of Galilee. He had already blessed them at the wedding, where He did his first miracle. Again He blessed them with His words, "Go your way; your son lives." Wherever He went, He sowed words of blessing and acts of kindness. Whoever believed Him reaped God's favor. Look how much increase had come down through Boaz and Ruth!
We are part of this lineage of blessing-- through Christ we have been grafted in. There has been no end to the increase of His Kingdom by His word and His power. His word is planted in us, and by faith, we can also receive the blessing and give it. As our character is established in Christ and our obedience is built by training and practice, we should see the same power of God's favor coming from the words of blessing and acts of kindness the Spirit prompts us to sow. If we could only get a hold of how overly-abundant-beyond-all-we-can-think-or-ask God's favor is through Christ, there would be no lack of provision, no lack of the power of God.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
April 28. 2010
The things that Gideon did, and that happened to his family, after he fought off the Midianites are very instructive to me. It's too easy to let it go to our head when God uses us. Now, I can't be sure this is what happened to him, but that's the application I see in it for me. God can use us mightily, but if we don't let God deal with our self-nature issues, our pride can most certainly cause us, and others, to stumble.
It's particularly dangerous if a person makes lots of money from whatever anointing they may have received, or gain lots of fame and attention from people. Human beings don't deal very well with these things. So many people seem to go off the deep end when they're super-successful, whether or not they started out with God. I dealt with some of that stuff a long time ago (in my miniscule brush with fame), and I may have talked about that a little, I can't remember. But I am very glad that the Lord has seen fit to keep me hidden from view for a very long time, while He's worked through so many messed-up things in me, to form Christ in me. I'd like to stay totally hidden until "it's no longer I that lives, but Christ who lives in me." But really, it's up to the Lord as to what He wants to do with us. My choice would be to stay out of view, but I wouldn't have much influence that way, and it would probably be like burying the talents or hiding the lamp under a bushel.
All I can say is, we've got to stay humble and not get a big head when He does something through us. It's His power and ability, not ours.
Jesus statement on the cross says it all to me, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." It's not until we can love God with our whole heart, soul, mind and strength-- and trust Him enough to let go--that we can ever get over our self.
It's particularly dangerous if a person makes lots of money from whatever anointing they may have received, or gain lots of fame and attention from people. Human beings don't deal very well with these things. So many people seem to go off the deep end when they're super-successful, whether or not they started out with God. I dealt with some of that stuff a long time ago (in my miniscule brush with fame), and I may have talked about that a little, I can't remember. But I am very glad that the Lord has seen fit to keep me hidden from view for a very long time, while He's worked through so many messed-up things in me, to form Christ in me. I'd like to stay totally hidden until "it's no longer I that lives, but Christ who lives in me." But really, it's up to the Lord as to what He wants to do with us. My choice would be to stay out of view, but I wouldn't have much influence that way, and it would probably be like burying the talents or hiding the lamp under a bushel.
All I can say is, we've got to stay humble and not get a big head when He does something through us. It's His power and ability, not ours.
Jesus statement on the cross says it all to me, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." It's not until we can love God with our whole heart, soul, mind and strength-- and trust Him enough to let go--that we can ever get over our self.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
April 27, 2010
What do you do if somebody mocks you? I don't mean just playing, I'm mean really. They're trash-talking you-- really belittling you, and maybe by implication, God. I haven't had a person do this to me in a long time, but the devil tries to do it in my thoughts sometimes. What do you do?
When Jesus was mocked, He didn't reply. He didn't get angry or mock back. He didn't fight them off when they put a crown of thorns on his head, mocking him. He certainly didn't do what Gideon did! Jesus, while dealing with the people, was silent, except to offer forgiveness, even as He died on the cross. He didn't try to prove himself, defend himself, or take revenge.
On the other hand, with d'devil, it was different. Jesus totally trounced Satan, breaking into his domain, and taking from him the keys of hell and death! We don't know what Jesus said to Satan then, but He would never engage in prideful mockery; perhaps He warned Satan of his future imprisonment, and his eventual destruction. For once, Satan was probably speechless! I still don't think he's gotten over Jesus rising from the dead.
Follow Jesus' example when dealing with mocking people. When dealing with the devil, do what Gideon did (in a spiritual sense). Be aggressive when the devil mocks you and tries to steal your confidence in God. (You have to watch out for the lies after you have a great victory. Beware!) Don't listen to anything the devil has to say-- just say no! Fight him with the Word-- what Jesus has said and done-- and that will be like torturing the devil with thorns; then tear down his stronghold.
When Jesus was mocked, He didn't reply. He didn't get angry or mock back. He didn't fight them off when they put a crown of thorns on his head, mocking him. He certainly didn't do what Gideon did! Jesus, while dealing with the people, was silent, except to offer forgiveness, even as He died on the cross. He didn't try to prove himself, defend himself, or take revenge.
On the other hand, with d'devil, it was different. Jesus totally trounced Satan, breaking into his domain, and taking from him the keys of hell and death! We don't know what Jesus said to Satan then, but He would never engage in prideful mockery; perhaps He warned Satan of his future imprisonment, and his eventual destruction. For once, Satan was probably speechless! I still don't think he's gotten over Jesus rising from the dead.
Follow Jesus' example when dealing with mocking people. When dealing with the devil, do what Gideon did (in a spiritual sense). Be aggressive when the devil mocks you and tries to steal your confidence in God. (You have to watch out for the lies after you have a great victory. Beware!) Don't listen to anything the devil has to say-- just say no! Fight him with the Word-- what Jesus has said and done-- and that will be like torturing the devil with thorns; then tear down his stronghold.
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