"Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food" (Isaiah 55:2).
This may be a shocker to many, but Snickers doesn't satisfy.
Neither does a thick Iowa chop.
Neither does a new dress.
Neither does a new car.
Neither does a happy marriage.
Neither does adultery.
Neither does a new boat.
Neither does a European vacation.
We spend years chasing after those things which are set before us. They promise that they will satisfy us. But in the end, we're still searching.
We get hungry again.
The new clothes lose their appeal.
The relationships fall apart.
The boat needs repaired.
And Europe is not as glamorous.
I don't think that Isaiah is calling us to spending money and time wisely in buying health food.
Just keep reading:
"Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near" (v 6).
Rather than spending years looking for satisfaction in people, places and things, seek the Lord. Only He can satisfy.
Think about this:
He owns everything already. He doesn't have a need to pad His bank account, so He's not going to sell you something that you don't need, just to make a profit.
He is sovereign. He's not in competition with anyone to get you to like Him.
He knows everything. He knows exactly how you are made and what makes you tick. He knows exactly what you need to be satisfied.
He is all-powerful. He has all the resources of the universe at His fingertips to give you exactly what He knows that you need to be satisfied.
Let me ask the same question that Isaiah asked, "Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near."
Friday, September 27, 2013
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Your Sin Hurts Others
When temptation comes our way, our first thoughts are about ourselves. Satisfying our wants is at the top of the list.
We do what we do, because we want what we want.
We are not thinking about others, unless we're thinking about how they can meet our needs.
We are not thinking about how our giving in to that temptation is damaging others.
Think about this verse in connection with your temptation:
"My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins" (James 5:19-20).
Think about when you sin and the people that you pull into your sin.
Instead of stopping the gossiper in the church foyer, you join in.
Instead of telling the truth, you encourage the braggart to exaggerate.
Instead of choosing not to watch porn, you encourage those who are abusing those men and women.
Instead of controlling your sexual passions, you pull those who are also struggling further into sin rather than from the fire.
Your sin does not affect you alone.
We do what we do, because we want what we want.
We are not thinking about others, unless we're thinking about how they can meet our needs.
We are not thinking about how our giving in to that temptation is damaging others.
Think about this verse in connection with your temptation:
"My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins" (James 5:19-20).
Think about when you sin and the people that you pull into your sin.
Instead of stopping the gossiper in the church foyer, you join in.
Instead of telling the truth, you encourage the braggart to exaggerate.
Instead of choosing not to watch porn, you encourage those who are abusing those men and women.
Instead of controlling your sexual passions, you pull those who are also struggling further into sin rather than from the fire.
Your sin does not affect you alone.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
People to Avoid
We like to have friends. We like to have conversations.
But we have to be picky about both of them.
Sometimes it's in the church foyer.
Sometimes it's over the phone.
Sometimes it's over a cup of coffee at McDonald's.
Sometimes it's an online chat.
And sometimes we enjoy hearing it.
We listen to what others are saying about someone else. Our intent is not to figure out how to help the third person. Not even in prayer.
We just want to hear what's going on.
We like the gossip.
And sometimes we're the giver, not the receiver.
Proverbs 20:19 warns, "Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler."
Stay away from those who are constantly babbling about others. They may be talking about others, but they are revealing their own hearts.
And the more their heart spills over into yours, the more you will become like them.
Watch your words and watch your friends' words.
But we have to be picky about both of them.
Sometimes it's in the church foyer.
Sometimes it's over the phone.
Sometimes it's over a cup of coffee at McDonald's.
Sometimes it's an online chat.
And sometimes we enjoy hearing it.
We listen to what others are saying about someone else. Our intent is not to figure out how to help the third person. Not even in prayer.
We just want to hear what's going on.
We like the gossip.
And sometimes we're the giver, not the receiver.
Proverbs 20:19 warns, "Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler."
Stay away from those who are constantly babbling about others. They may be talking about others, but they are revealing their own hearts.
And the more their heart spills over into yours, the more you will become like them.
Watch your words and watch your friends' words.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Three Things You Don't Know About Your Children and Sex
Our youth pastor handed out this article to the parents a couple of weeks ago.
Parents of children and teens, you need to read it.
http://www.annemariemiller.com/2013/08/19/three-things-you-dont-know-about-your-children-and-sex/
Parents of children and teens, you need to read it.
http://www.annemariemiller.com/2013/08/19/three-things-you-dont-know-about-your-children-and-sex/
Sunday, September 22, 2013
"I am the LORD and there is no other."
This phrase is repeated several times in Isaiah 45, "For I am the LORD and there is no other."
How does God reveal His supremacy?
He is sovereign over the nations. He will use Cyrus to accomplish His will (v 5-6). He will cause Egypt and other nations to submit to His plan. He is in control. He will fulfill His promises to Israel. BTW: Isaiah is writing while the Babylonians are the world power. Cyrus isn't even known at this time, yet God calls him by name, having chosen him to do His will.
He is supreme over creation. He is the creator and sustainer of the universe (v 18). He controls light and darkness. He controls the weather. He controls the animal kingdom.
He is superior over the gods of the nations (v 21). They have to be carried; He is in control. they can't speak; He declares His plans for the future. They can do nothing; He can do as He pleases.
The conclusion of the matter: God alone is worthy to be trusted. He has more power than anything or anyone else we might choose to trust.
To put our trust in a government or a political power is foolish.
To put our trust in the power of nature is foolish.
To put our trust in any other gods is foolish.
Trust the God for He is the LORD and there is no other.
How does God reveal His supremacy?
He is sovereign over the nations. He will use Cyrus to accomplish His will (v 5-6). He will cause Egypt and other nations to submit to His plan. He is in control. He will fulfill His promises to Israel. BTW: Isaiah is writing while the Babylonians are the world power. Cyrus isn't even known at this time, yet God calls him by name, having chosen him to do His will.
He is supreme over creation. He is the creator and sustainer of the universe (v 18). He controls light and darkness. He controls the weather. He controls the animal kingdom.
He is superior over the gods of the nations (v 21). They have to be carried; He is in control. they can't speak; He declares His plans for the future. They can do nothing; He can do as He pleases.
The conclusion of the matter: God alone is worthy to be trusted. He has more power than anything or anyone else we might choose to trust.
To put our trust in a government or a political power is foolish.
To put our trust in the power of nature is foolish.
To put our trust in any other gods is foolish.
Trust the God for He is the LORD and there is no other.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Hand-made Creations
In Isaiah 44-9-20, the prophet points out the foolishness of idolatry by painting a vivid picture.
A man plants a tree and waters it. When the tree is big, another man takes his tools to cut it down.
Half of the tree gets used for fuel to heat his home and to cook his food.
The other half is taken to a wood carver.
The carver gives it a fine shape, maybe a person, or an animal. Many hours with metal tools and skilled hands produce a fine piece of craftsmanship.
Then the piece is taken to the goldsmith, who overlays the wood with a layer of gold. How it glistens in the sun!
The man struggles to get it back to his home, but places this treasure in a prominent location and declares, "This is my god!"
He bows down to worship it.
What a fool to choose wood over the living God!
What a fool to choose something that he created over the One Who created him!
What a fool to choose something that he dresses up over the magnificent, glorious God of heaven!
What a fool to choose an object which has no sensory perception over a God who sees everything, speaks through His Word and hears prayers!
What a fool!
What a fool we are when we choose to put anything in the place of God.
Maybe not a bedazzled piece of wood.
But maybe our family. Our time. Our money. Our resources. Our sins.
What a fool!
A man plants a tree and waters it. When the tree is big, another man takes his tools to cut it down.
Half of the tree gets used for fuel to heat his home and to cook his food.
The other half is taken to a wood carver.
The carver gives it a fine shape, maybe a person, or an animal. Many hours with metal tools and skilled hands produce a fine piece of craftsmanship.
Then the piece is taken to the goldsmith, who overlays the wood with a layer of gold. How it glistens in the sun!
The man struggles to get it back to his home, but places this treasure in a prominent location and declares, "This is my god!"
He bows down to worship it.
What a fool to choose wood over the living God!
What a fool to choose something that he created over the One Who created him!
What a fool to choose something that he dresses up over the magnificent, glorious God of heaven!
What a fool to choose an object which has no sensory perception over a God who sees everything, speaks through His Word and hears prayers!
What a fool!
What a fool we are when we choose to put anything in the place of God.
Maybe not a bedazzled piece of wood.
But maybe our family. Our time. Our money. Our resources. Our sins.
What a fool!
Friday, September 20, 2013
Two Ears and One Mouth
We've all been involved in those conversations. You know, you're listening to the other person, but really can't wait until he stops talking, so that you can say something.
While we generally will get frustrated with the other person, our behavior is what we should really be questioning.
"A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his own opinion" (Proverbs 18:2).
According to that verse, the previous conversation is an example of two fools together in one room.
They're not really conversing. Both are just spouting their opinions.
Pay attention to the conversations that you have today.
Are they really conversations, or just two fools in a room?
What can we do to change?
It's not rocket science, but we need to do it.
Listen and ask questions. Make sure that you are understanding what the other one is saying by asking questions. "Did you say...?" "Did I understand...?" "What happened then...?"
Be patient. Remember that the other person is just as much a fool as you are.
What not to do:
Don't interrupt. So many conversations are just a "one-upmanship" competition. "My story is better and you need to hear it." The only thing that we listen for is for an opportunity to tell our story or voice our opinion.
What did that verse call those people who do that?
Don't attempt to solve every problem. Not all problems can be solved in a two-minute conversation.
Don't make a judgment before hearing the whole story. Stop and listen. Listen to both sides.
Don't argue and criticize. You're just proving that you think your opinion is needs to be heard.
The way to understanding is through active listening. That may require us to keep our mouths shut more!
While we generally will get frustrated with the other person, our behavior is what we should really be questioning.
"A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his own opinion" (Proverbs 18:2).
According to that verse, the previous conversation is an example of two fools together in one room.
They're not really conversing. Both are just spouting their opinions.
Pay attention to the conversations that you have today.
Are they really conversations, or just two fools in a room?
What can we do to change?
It's not rocket science, but we need to do it.
Listen and ask questions. Make sure that you are understanding what the other one is saying by asking questions. "Did you say...?" "Did I understand...?" "What happened then...?"
Be patient. Remember that the other person is just as much a fool as you are.
What not to do:
Don't interrupt. So many conversations are just a "one-upmanship" competition. "My story is better and you need to hear it." The only thing that we listen for is for an opportunity to tell our story or voice our opinion.
What did that verse call those people who do that?
Don't attempt to solve every problem. Not all problems can be solved in a two-minute conversation.
Don't make a judgment before hearing the whole story. Stop and listen. Listen to both sides.
Don't argue and criticize. You're just proving that you think your opinion is needs to be heard.
The way to understanding is through active listening. That may require us to keep our mouths shut more!
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Prayer for the Persecuted
Paul writes to the persecuted believers in Thessalonica. Remember that he was thrown out of the city after just three weeks? Evidently, things didn't get better for the believers after he left, but worse.
He encourages them in the first verses, reminding them that they are suffering like other believers and that God will hold their persecutors accountable.
Although most of us will not face persecution for our belief, we do have struggles and challenges through our lives.
Look how Paul prays for these struggling believers:
"To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ" (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12).
He did not pray that they would be relieved of the persecution.
He did not pray for vengeance.
He did not pray that there would be a change in the government so that they could worship in freedom.
He did not pray that the Christians would become the majority and take over the city.
He prayed that God would refine them, make them worthy of His calling. Make them to look and live like children of God, which they were.
He prayed that God would accomplish His will in their lives. That God would bring about good in the midst of trouble. That God would fulfill His plan by His power.
Why?
So that the name of Jesus would be glorified, made to look big, in them. That they would see the greatness of Jesus. That they would see His work in their lives in the midst of persecution.
And that the believers would be glorified in Him. Not made to look great in the world's eyes, but that the promise of eternal glory would be realized in the believer. That they would remember that this light affliction is nothing in comparison to the eternal weight of glory that awaits them.
What does your prayer life look like for those brothers and sisters who are going through struggles?
Relief from pain?
More money in the bank?
Smooth sailing?
How about praying that God would work out His plan in their lives for His glory and their good?
He encourages them in the first verses, reminding them that they are suffering like other believers and that God will hold their persecutors accountable.
Although most of us will not face persecution for our belief, we do have struggles and challenges through our lives.
Look how Paul prays for these struggling believers:
"To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ" (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12).
He did not pray that they would be relieved of the persecution.
He did not pray for vengeance.
He did not pray that there would be a change in the government so that they could worship in freedom.
He did not pray that the Christians would become the majority and take over the city.
He prayed that God would refine them, make them worthy of His calling. Make them to look and live like children of God, which they were.
He prayed that God would accomplish His will in their lives. That God would bring about good in the midst of trouble. That God would fulfill His plan by His power.
Why?
So that the name of Jesus would be glorified, made to look big, in them. That they would see the greatness of Jesus. That they would see His work in their lives in the midst of persecution.
And that the believers would be glorified in Him. Not made to look great in the world's eyes, but that the promise of eternal glory would be realized in the believer. That they would remember that this light affliction is nothing in comparison to the eternal weight of glory that awaits them.
What does your prayer life look like for those brothers and sisters who are going through struggles?
Relief from pain?
More money in the bank?
Smooth sailing?
How about praying that God would work out His plan in their lives for His glory and their good?
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Good Bitterness
After the Lord restored his health and added 15 years to his life, Hezekiah wrote a song of praise that's recorded in Isaiah 38.
The crux of the song is in verse 17:
"Behold, it was for my welfare that I had great bitterness; but in love You have delivered my life from the pit of destruction, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back."
When we are in the middle of "great bitterness," we don't usually think of the good that will come out of it.
Sure, we may try to encourage ourselves by saying, "God will work it out." But in reality, it's pretty hard to see that it's going to turn out good.
When the trial comes to an end, or at least when the dust starts to settle, we should be able to look back and see that it was for our benefit.
Hezekiah learned that lesson.
And so have I.
A few years ago, I was seeking opportunity to end my life. The guilt of my sin was a burden I no longer wanted to carry. My life didn't seem like it was going to change for the better. In fact, it seemed that every day was getting worse.
But God has delivered my soul.
He has taken me from the pit of destruction.
He has cast all my sins behind His back
He has chosen to forgive me because He loves me.
Does that mean that every day is rosy? No.
Does that mean that there are no longer temptations to overcome? No.
Does that mean that there will be no new periods of great bitterness? No.
But it does mean that God has worked through this trial to teach me of His love for me.
I can say with Hezekiah, "Behold, it was for my welfare, that I had great bitterness."
The crux of the song is in verse 17:
"Behold, it was for my welfare that I had great bitterness; but in love You have delivered my life from the pit of destruction, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back."
When we are in the middle of "great bitterness," we don't usually think of the good that will come out of it.
Sure, we may try to encourage ourselves by saying, "God will work it out." But in reality, it's pretty hard to see that it's going to turn out good.
When the trial comes to an end, or at least when the dust starts to settle, we should be able to look back and see that it was for our benefit.
Hezekiah learned that lesson.
And so have I.
A few years ago, I was seeking opportunity to end my life. The guilt of my sin was a burden I no longer wanted to carry. My life didn't seem like it was going to change for the better. In fact, it seemed that every day was getting worse.
But God has delivered my soul.
He has taken me from the pit of destruction.
He has cast all my sins behind His back
He has chosen to forgive me because He loves me.
Does that mean that every day is rosy? No.
Does that mean that there are no longer temptations to overcome? No.
Does that mean that there will be no new periods of great bitterness? No.
But it does mean that God has worked through this trial to teach me of His love for me.
I can say with Hezekiah, "Behold, it was for my welfare, that I had great bitterness."
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Completely Satisfied
We talk about being satisfied. Usually we talk about being unsatisfied and wish we were satisfied, don't we?
His grades are unsatisfactory.
I'd like a better job.
If only this house were a little bit bigger.
I've got to knock off 20 lbs before the end of October.
I wish I could go on a cruise.
Is it possible to be completely satisfied?
Isn't it interesting that motivational speakers put "satisfaction" at the end of the stick? But throughout their speech, they're telling us not to be satisfied with previous results.
You can't be satisfied now. You've got to work harder and then you'll be satisfied...well, probably not.
Occasionally in church we hear a sermon about being satisfied in Christ.
Complete in Thee, O blessed Thought!
We talk about how Jesus paid it all. He's provided everything for salvation.
And we're okay with that. He did everything because there was nothing we could do. We've got the salvation part down.
And we know that when we enter heaven's gates, we'll be satisfied with the glory of God for all of eternity.
No more pain. No sorrow. No want. In the presence of God.
But what about Tuesdays?
Are we satisfied on Thursday afternoon at 2:30?
We've got salvation and heaven. But what about today?
Aren't we still yearning for something?
Better grades. A new dress. A bigger house. A better physique. Health. Happiness. Marriage. Children. Retirement. Grandchildren. A good church family. Rewarding ministry. Presents under the tree.
Is it possible to be satisfied in Jesus and in Him alone?
To not want anything more but a relationship with the creator of the universe. To not need anything more than the sweet fellowship of communion with Him through His Word and prayer.
If all the things of life were stripped away, could you still be content?
Take away your family. Take away your job. Take away all ministry. Take away your house. Take away your car. Take away your health. Take away your church.
That's not likely to all happen at once, but what happens if just one of them is taken away?
Would you be satisfied in Jesus if you were living on welfare in your parents' basement?
Would you be satisfied in Jesus if your family turned away from you - or even just one child?
What does it look like to be satisfied completely in Jesus?
More questions than answers this time. Leave your answers in the comments below.
His grades are unsatisfactory.
I'd like a better job.
If only this house were a little bit bigger.
I've got to knock off 20 lbs before the end of October.
I wish I could go on a cruise.
Is it possible to be completely satisfied?
Isn't it interesting that motivational speakers put "satisfaction" at the end of the stick? But throughout their speech, they're telling us not to be satisfied with previous results.
You can't be satisfied now. You've got to work harder and then you'll be satisfied...well, probably not.
Occasionally in church we hear a sermon about being satisfied in Christ.
Complete in Thee, O blessed Thought!
We talk about how Jesus paid it all. He's provided everything for salvation.
And we're okay with that. He did everything because there was nothing we could do. We've got the salvation part down.
And we know that when we enter heaven's gates, we'll be satisfied with the glory of God for all of eternity.
No more pain. No sorrow. No want. In the presence of God.
But what about Tuesdays?
Are we satisfied on Thursday afternoon at 2:30?
We've got salvation and heaven. But what about today?
Aren't we still yearning for something?
Better grades. A new dress. A bigger house. A better physique. Health. Happiness. Marriage. Children. Retirement. Grandchildren. A good church family. Rewarding ministry. Presents under the tree.
Is it possible to be satisfied in Jesus and in Him alone?
To not want anything more but a relationship with the creator of the universe. To not need anything more than the sweet fellowship of communion with Him through His Word and prayer.
If all the things of life were stripped away, could you still be content?
Take away your family. Take away your job. Take away all ministry. Take away your house. Take away your car. Take away your health. Take away your church.
That's not likely to all happen at once, but what happens if just one of them is taken away?
Would you be satisfied in Jesus if you were living on welfare in your parents' basement?
Would you be satisfied in Jesus if your family turned away from you - or even just one child?
What does it look like to be satisfied completely in Jesus?
More questions than answers this time. Leave your answers in the comments below.
Monday, September 16, 2013
Is God anti-gay?
I don't usually do book reviews here, but I just read this little book and thought it worth sharing.
The title, "Is God anti-gay? And other questions about homosexuality, the Bible and same-sex attraction," is as straightforward as the book. It's only 83 pages and small, so the author, Sam Allberry, doesn't waste any time.
As a Christian struggling with same-sex attraction, the author points the reader to the grace of God. He doesn't waste time with stories or drama. "This is what the Bible says; read it for yourself" is the tone of the book.
He explains clearly the few references in the Bible to homosexuality as well as God's purposes for marriage and sex. Unashamedly, he concludes that homosexuality is not part of God's plan. It is a sin for which there is grace, love and forgiveness - just like for every sin. Repentance and faith are needed for those struggling with same-sex attraction, just like for those struggling with adultery, greed and gluttony.
The author also provides practical help for dealing with those who admit to their homosexual behavior:
What do you do if a co-worker confides in you that he is gay?
How should you react if a gay couple showed up for church on Sunday?
What if someone in your Sunday School class told you that he's more attracted to men than to women?
The author's answer is the same as the Bible's answer: point them to the cross.
Show them that their identity is not in their sexuality, but in Christ.
Love them more than their homosexual friends love them.
Love them more than they love their homosexuality.
This is a book that every pastor should read. It's a book that he should be bold enough to read with his deacons. Youth workers should read this. Parents should read this. Teens should read this.
It's only 83 pages long.
But it might help you to point someone to the cross.
The title, "Is God anti-gay? And other questions about homosexuality, the Bible and same-sex attraction," is as straightforward as the book. It's only 83 pages and small, so the author, Sam Allberry, doesn't waste any time.
As a Christian struggling with same-sex attraction, the author points the reader to the grace of God. He doesn't waste time with stories or drama. "This is what the Bible says; read it for yourself" is the tone of the book.
He explains clearly the few references in the Bible to homosexuality as well as God's purposes for marriage and sex. Unashamedly, he concludes that homosexuality is not part of God's plan. It is a sin for which there is grace, love and forgiveness - just like for every sin. Repentance and faith are needed for those struggling with same-sex attraction, just like for those struggling with adultery, greed and gluttony.
The author also provides practical help for dealing with those who admit to their homosexual behavior:
What do you do if a co-worker confides in you that he is gay?
How should you react if a gay couple showed up for church on Sunday?
What if someone in your Sunday School class told you that he's more attracted to men than to women?
The author's answer is the same as the Bible's answer: point them to the cross.
Show them that their identity is not in their sexuality, but in Christ.
Love them more than their homosexual friends love them.
Love them more than they love their homosexuality.
This is a book that every pastor should read. It's a book that he should be bold enough to read with his deacons. Youth workers should read this. Parents should read this. Teens should read this.
It's only 83 pages long.
But it might help you to point someone to the cross.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Peace in the Storm
In the midst of prophecies of gloom and doom, the LORD gives Isaiah a song of rejoicing.
Not rejoicing because of the the bad things that are going to happen, but because of the restoration of Israel in the end.
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock" (Isaiah 26:3-4).
The hard times were coming. And they were going to be bad.
God's people and the neighboring countries were going to be judged. And it wouldn't be just a slap on the hand.
In the hard times that were coming, this song would remind God's people that peace was possible.
Not possible by looking at the circumstances.
Not possible by ignoring the circumstances.
Not possible by trying to manipulate the circumstances.
Not possible by just plowing through the circumstances.
Peace in the midst of the circumstances was possible by thinking about God and trusting in His promises.
The same is true for us today.
Remember that God is always in control.
Remember that God is working everything for His glory.
Remember that God is working to change you to the image of His Son.
Remember that God is protecting you from Satan's plans.
Remember that God is always with you.
Remember that God has prepared heaven for you and that earth is temporary.
Remember that God loves you more than anyone else.
Remember that God has provided forgiveness, redemption, sanctification, justification, adoption, glorification and so much more for you
Remember that God...
Not rejoicing because of the the bad things that are going to happen, but because of the restoration of Israel in the end.
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock" (Isaiah 26:3-4).
The hard times were coming. And they were going to be bad.
God's people and the neighboring countries were going to be judged. And it wouldn't be just a slap on the hand.
In the hard times that were coming, this song would remind God's people that peace was possible.
Not possible by looking at the circumstances.
Not possible by ignoring the circumstances.
Not possible by trying to manipulate the circumstances.
Not possible by just plowing through the circumstances.
Peace in the midst of the circumstances was possible by thinking about God and trusting in His promises.
The same is true for us today.
Remember that God is always in control.
Remember that God is working everything for His glory.
Remember that God is working to change you to the image of His Son.
Remember that God is protecting you from Satan's plans.
Remember that God is always with you.
Remember that God has prepared heaven for you and that earth is temporary.
Remember that God loves you more than anyone else.
Remember that God has provided forgiveness, redemption, sanctification, justification, adoption, glorification and so much more for you
Remember that God...
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
You Get What You Want
Often we try to blame our sinful actions on our environment.
My dad was a hot-head, so I lose my temper.
Everyone else is watching this program, so I will, too.
My parents beat me, so that's how I handle stress.
All the girls in school where these, mom!
While our surroundings are not totally to blame, they do have an influence.
"Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor, but evil comes to him who searches for it" (Prov 11:27).
This verse teaches that sin does not develop in our lives passively. Lying, cheating, adultery or robbery won't simply show up one day.
"Evil comes to him who searches for it."
We want to fit in, so we search for what others are doing, how they talk, and how they dress.
We want to satisfy our lusts, so we search out immorality.
We want more money, so we cheat on our taxes or our time card.
If we want something, all we have to do is look for it and it will come to us.
The same is true about good things.
If we want to live a holy life, we will seek it and find it.
We'll study God's Word to know God's definition of holiness.
We'll surround ourselves with godly examples who will show us how to live a holy life.
If we want to please God, we will concentrate our time and energy into that goal and achieve it.
Our environment can't be blamed, because we choose our environments. The problem is our hearts. We choose our environments because of the condition of our hearts. Our environment is a reflection of our heart's desire.
Good or evil, the choice is ours.
Seek good or seek evil. You'll find either one.
My dad was a hot-head, so I lose my temper.
Everyone else is watching this program, so I will, too.
My parents beat me, so that's how I handle stress.
All the girls in school where these, mom!
While our surroundings are not totally to blame, they do have an influence.
"Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor, but evil comes to him who searches for it" (Prov 11:27).
This verse teaches that sin does not develop in our lives passively. Lying, cheating, adultery or robbery won't simply show up one day.
"Evil comes to him who searches for it."
We want to fit in, so we search for what others are doing, how they talk, and how they dress.
We want to satisfy our lusts, so we search out immorality.
We want more money, so we cheat on our taxes or our time card.
If we want something, all we have to do is look for it and it will come to us.
The same is true about good things.
If we want to live a holy life, we will seek it and find it.
We'll study God's Word to know God's definition of holiness.
We'll surround ourselves with godly examples who will show us how to live a holy life.
If we want to please God, we will concentrate our time and energy into that goal and achieve it.
Our environment can't be blamed, because we choose our environments. The problem is our hearts. We choose our environments because of the condition of our hearts. Our environment is a reflection of our heart's desire.
Good or evil, the choice is ours.
Seek good or seek evil. You'll find either one.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Rules or No Rules?
Some will claim that freedom in Christ allows them to do whatever they want to do.
"There is therefore no longer any condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:1).
"Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath...Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism...If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations...according to human precepts and teachings?" (Colossians 2:16-22).
I'm free in Christ and you can't tell me what I should or shouldn't do!
But then do we have a contradiction in other passages that give commands?
"Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor...Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands..." (Ephesians 4:25-28).
"But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking..." (Ephesians 5:3-4).
"Wives, submit to your own husbands...Husbands, love your wives...Children, obey your parents..." (Ephesians 5:25-6:1).
So are we free, or aren't we? Are there rules to follow or not?
Yes, we are free and yes, there are rules to follow.
As always, read the context of the passages.
We are free from sin. Its power and penalty are broken through the blood of Christ on our behalf (Romans 6-8).
The list of rules that Paul warns the Colossians about concerns temporal things: food, drink, holy days and denial. For some following these rules are what makes them holy. Paul says that those teachers are filled with the empty philosophy of the world. You can't do anything to make yourself holy (Colossians 1-2).
But because we have been made holy through the work of Christ on the cross, we are to live a certain way (Ephesians 4-6). These have to do with attitudes, relationships, communication and responsibilities, not food, drink and holy days.
There are rules for the Christian life. And we need to be very careful how we set up our rules.
The rules that we have need to be based in the Gospel.
Following the rules do not make us holy, but because we are holy, we follow the rules.
"There is therefore no longer any condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:1).
"Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath...Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism...If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations...according to human precepts and teachings?" (Colossians 2:16-22).
I'm free in Christ and you can't tell me what I should or shouldn't do!
But then do we have a contradiction in other passages that give commands?
"Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor...Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands..." (Ephesians 4:25-28).
"But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking..." (Ephesians 5:3-4).
"Wives, submit to your own husbands...Husbands, love your wives...Children, obey your parents..." (Ephesians 5:25-6:1).
So are we free, or aren't we? Are there rules to follow or not?
Yes, we are free and yes, there are rules to follow.
As always, read the context of the passages.
We are free from sin. Its power and penalty are broken through the blood of Christ on our behalf (Romans 6-8).
The list of rules that Paul warns the Colossians about concerns temporal things: food, drink, holy days and denial. For some following these rules are what makes them holy. Paul says that those teachers are filled with the empty philosophy of the world. You can't do anything to make yourself holy (Colossians 1-2).
But because we have been made holy through the work of Christ on the cross, we are to live a certain way (Ephesians 4-6). These have to do with attitudes, relationships, communication and responsibilities, not food, drink and holy days.
There are rules for the Christian life. And we need to be very careful how we set up our rules.
The rules that we have need to be based in the Gospel.
Following the rules do not make us holy, but because we are holy, we follow the rules.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Since I Have Been Redeemed
I have a song I love to sing,
Since I have been redeemed.
Of my Redeemer, Savior, King,
Since I have been redeemed.
I have a Christ who satisfies,
Since I have been redeemed.
To do His will my highest prize,
Since I have been redeemed.
I have a witness bright and clear,
Since I have been redeemed.
Dispelling every doubt and fear,
Since I have been redeemed.
I have a home prepared for me,
Since I have been redeemed.
Where I shall dwell eternally,
Since I have been redeemed.
Since I have been redeemed,
Since I have been redeemed,
I will glory in His name;
Since I have been redeemed,
I will glory in my Savior's name.
- Edwin O. Excell
Since I have been redeemed.
Of my Redeemer, Savior, King,
Since I have been redeemed.
I have a Christ who satisfies,
Since I have been redeemed.
To do His will my highest prize,
Since I have been redeemed.
I have a witness bright and clear,
Since I have been redeemed.
Dispelling every doubt and fear,
Since I have been redeemed.
I have a home prepared for me,
Since I have been redeemed.
Where I shall dwell eternally,
Since I have been redeemed.
Since I have been redeemed,
Since I have been redeemed,
I will glory in His name;
Since I have been redeemed,
I will glory in my Savior's name.
- Edwin O. Excell
Friday, September 6, 2013
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
Maybe you remember this from this old movie:
While Indiana Jones is in India searching for some great treasure, he arrives in a deep, dark mine. The mine is being worked by children, who are looking for jewels.
The children are slaves. Horrible living conditions. Hard work. No sunlight.
Of course, Indy can't just get the treasure, he has to let the children free.
They come racing out of the mine. Into the sunlight. Back to their families.
It's a complete opposite to what they had experienced in their lives.
Although that deliverance is heart-warming, it's nothing like our deliverance from the domain of darkness.
"He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins" (Colossians 1:13-14).
Before Jesus set us free, we were slaves.
Maybe we didn't think we were slaves, because everyone around us was just the same.
We thought we were free, because we didn't know anything different.
But when Jesus came and set us free, He transferred us to His kingdom.
He pulled us out of the darkness of Satan's kingdom and placed us in the glory of His kingdom.
We've been redeemed. He paid the full price. He did all the work. There's nothing that we have done.
We have forgiveness of sins. All of them. Each of them. Paid for completely.
Not because of what we could have done. We were slaves in the deep, dark mines. Jesus came and set us free!
While Indiana Jones is in India searching for some great treasure, he arrives in a deep, dark mine. The mine is being worked by children, who are looking for jewels.
The children are slaves. Horrible living conditions. Hard work. No sunlight.
Of course, Indy can't just get the treasure, he has to let the children free.
They come racing out of the mine. Into the sunlight. Back to their families.
It's a complete opposite to what they had experienced in their lives.
Although that deliverance is heart-warming, it's nothing like our deliverance from the domain of darkness.
"He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins" (Colossians 1:13-14).
Before Jesus set us free, we were slaves.
Maybe we didn't think we were slaves, because everyone around us was just the same.
We thought we were free, because we didn't know anything different.
But when Jesus came and set us free, He transferred us to His kingdom.
He pulled us out of the darkness of Satan's kingdom and placed us in the glory of His kingdom.
We've been redeemed. He paid the full price. He did all the work. There's nothing that we have done.
We have forgiveness of sins. All of them. Each of them. Paid for completely.
Not because of what we could have done. We were slaves in the deep, dark mines. Jesus came and set us free!
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Early Morning Thoughts
I've been awake since 4:30 a.m. - two hours before my alarm went off.
I wanted to get back to sleep, but instead I lay in bed with my mind wandering.
Events of the previous days.
Plans for upcoming days.
Worry.
Prayer.
Praise.
Conversations I need to have.
Finances.
Fantasies.
Satisfaction in Christ.
Hymns.
Check e-mail and Facebook.
Review 1 John 2.
Repeat.
Finally, the alarm went off.
So how well did I apply Philippians 4:8?
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Certainly not 100%. But there was the convicting of the Holy Spirit through those early morning hours to get my mind back on to godly thoughts.
For that I am thankful.
"I'm pressing on the upward way.
New heights I'm gaining every day.
Still praying as I'm homeward bound,
'Lord, plant my feet on higher ground!'"
I wanted to get back to sleep, but instead I lay in bed with my mind wandering.
Events of the previous days.
Plans for upcoming days.
Worry.
Prayer.
Praise.
Conversations I need to have.
Finances.
Fantasies.
Satisfaction in Christ.
Hymns.
Check e-mail and Facebook.
Review 1 John 2.
Repeat.
Finally, the alarm went off.
So how well did I apply Philippians 4:8?
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Certainly not 100%. But there was the convicting of the Holy Spirit through those early morning hours to get my mind back on to godly thoughts.
For that I am thankful.
"I'm pressing on the upward way.
New heights I'm gaining every day.
Still praying as I'm homeward bound,
'Lord, plant my feet on higher ground!'"
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Choose Wisely
We are always imitating someone. Not likely that we are imitating any one person completely, but we pick and choose.
Someone dies their hair a certain color, so we try it out.
Someone talks about their hobby, and we try to learn it, too.
Someone buys a new car, and we think about trading up to something better.
That's not always bad. People around us stimulate our thinking and actions.
But there are more important things to imitate than hair color, hobbies and automobiles.
Paul instructed the believers in Philippi:
"Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us" (Philippians 3:17).
We need to have examples to follow.
Men and women who are walking in obedience to the Word and growing closer to Christ.
Those who are praying and having prayers answered.
Those who are seeking and taking opportunities to witness.
Those whose character reflects the fruit of the Spirit.
We need examples to follow.
But we also need to be an example worthy of following.
Someone dies their hair a certain color, so we try it out.
Someone talks about their hobby, and we try to learn it, too.
Someone buys a new car, and we think about trading up to something better.
That's not always bad. People around us stimulate our thinking and actions.
But there are more important things to imitate than hair color, hobbies and automobiles.
Paul instructed the believers in Philippi:
"Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us" (Philippians 3:17).
We need to have examples to follow.
Men and women who are walking in obedience to the Word and growing closer to Christ.
Those who are praying and having prayers answered.
Those who are seeking and taking opportunities to witness.
Those whose character reflects the fruit of the Spirit.
We need examples to follow.
But we also need to be an example worthy of following.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Kwitcherbellyachin
It's easy to complain.
Everyone else is doing it.
We can easily think of excuses not to do something.
And we love to hear our own voices. So it's easy to spit out those complaints.
There's always something to complain about.
Complain about the weather. Complain about the boss. Complain about work. Complain about the kids. Complain about the spouse.
And we usually think that our way is the best way to do things.
Arguing is so easy.
But Paul wrote:
"Do all things without grumbling or disputing that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world" (Phil 2:14-15).
When we choose to "do all things without grumbling or disputing" we will "shine as lights in the world."
We'll be different.
Radically different from everyone around us.
So as you go through the day, choose not to complain.
Choose not to argue.
And you'll shine!
Everyone else is doing it.
We can easily think of excuses not to do something.
And we love to hear our own voices. So it's easy to spit out those complaints.
There's always something to complain about.
Complain about the weather. Complain about the boss. Complain about work. Complain about the kids. Complain about the spouse.
And we usually think that our way is the best way to do things.
Arguing is so easy.
But Paul wrote:
"Do all things without grumbling or disputing that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world" (Phil 2:14-15).
When we choose to "do all things without grumbling or disputing" we will "shine as lights in the world."
We'll be different.
Radically different from everyone around us.
So as you go through the day, choose not to complain.
Choose not to argue.
And you'll shine!
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