Ephesians 3:30-31 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
One of the hardest things to do is to forgive someone who has wronged you. If we cannot forgive how do we expect God to forgive us? The Lord forgives us and He does it with a loving heart. He does it with kindness and with tenderness of heart. There is no begrudging, reluctant forgiveness. God’s heart is tender toward us. His love toward us is genuine and his forgiveness is complete. Jesus was asked by his disciples to teach them to pray. What Jesus said we now call the Lord’s Prayer. However, right in the middle of that teaching Jesus made a very clear statement about forgiveness. He said “And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” Would we want to be forgiven by God the same way we forgive others? Of course not! We want God to forgive us totally and completely so then we should follow suit.
How did God forgive you? Did He wait until you deserved to be forgiven? Earned the right to be forgiven? Did He make you beg and grovel before He forgave you? Does God continually bring up your past sins as a reminder to shame you? Did God wait for you to pursue Him, or did he pursue you in order to bring about healing and reconciliation in your relationship with Him?
To be forgiven we must forgive. Yes it is hard to do and yes our nature prevents it more times than not. To be Christian is to be Christ like. To be Christ like we must forgive those who have wronged us. I have heard people say, “I could never forgive them for what they have done.” I am thankful God through Jesus Christ saved a sinner like me and forgave me totally and completely. I am also thankful he forgot my sin and set me free. Are keeping someone bound by your unwillingness to forgive? Can God forgive you if you will not forgive?
Jesus followed his teaching about prayer with another statement about forgiveness. He said, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14-15
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
What is the world coming to?
2 Timothy 3:13-14, “Evil men and seducers shall wax worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them.”
If we take that forecast to heart we cannot help but to be discouraged. If we look at the evening news we see only the bad and ugly. Wickedness abounds on every side. Evil men will multiply in number and wickedness. Not only will they be set on deceiving others, but they themselves will be so hardened against God that they will justify their wickedness to themselves, deceiving themselves. Not a pretty picture. Paul wants to warn Timothy and us to commit ourselves to Christ. We are to put our faith and trust in Him in the most difficult times now and in the future.
It is very discouraging when we see fewer and fewer standing for the truth of Jesus Christ. The propaganda of our age is deceiving many and turning more away from Christ. Paul is telling us we need to remember what we learned and what Jesus has done for us. Do not compromise God’s perfect Word for the fallible thinking of fallen heads.
Today we are witnessing a falling away from God and His truth. Governments are making judgments that are breaking up the home and family. The moral fiber of our country is under attack and as Christians we need to take a stand for Christ and the truth of God’s Word. Yes evil wicked men are on the rise but our God is more powerful than them all and is still in control. As His children God expects us to stand and be counted to remember the things we learned and know to be true.
The battle was won on a roman cross. Our Lord and King reigns and is still alive and well. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31
If we take that forecast to heart we cannot help but to be discouraged. If we look at the evening news we see only the bad and ugly. Wickedness abounds on every side. Evil men will multiply in number and wickedness. Not only will they be set on deceiving others, but they themselves will be so hardened against God that they will justify their wickedness to themselves, deceiving themselves. Not a pretty picture. Paul wants to warn Timothy and us to commit ourselves to Christ. We are to put our faith and trust in Him in the most difficult times now and in the future.
It is very discouraging when we see fewer and fewer standing for the truth of Jesus Christ. The propaganda of our age is deceiving many and turning more away from Christ. Paul is telling us we need to remember what we learned and what Jesus has done for us. Do not compromise God’s perfect Word for the fallible thinking of fallen heads.
Today we are witnessing a falling away from God and His truth. Governments are making judgments that are breaking up the home and family. The moral fiber of our country is under attack and as Christians we need to take a stand for Christ and the truth of God’s Word. Yes evil wicked men are on the rise but our God is more powerful than them all and is still in control. As His children God expects us to stand and be counted to remember the things we learned and know to be true.
The battle was won on a roman cross. Our Lord and King reigns and is still alive and well. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Hearing and Not Listening
Acts 7:54
“When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed their teeth.”
Many times we men are accused of having selective hearing by our wives. This is evidenced by the fact that we have to turn up the TV to hear the programs. Or ask what did the preacher say in church and that we regularly ask our wives to repeat what they tell us. However, all of this doesn’t mean we have a hearing problem. All the while there may be a logical reason to explain that but has nothing to do with our ability to hear.
Who is right? It's hard to say, but when we are told we need to go to a doctor our macho takes over and we get mad. Why do we get mad? I don't know for sure but it is probably because we are afraid she is right. It is true selective hearing is practiced, but then is because we just don’t want to hear the truth when we turn off what we are being told?
What makes you mad when someone says something about you? I'm not suggesting that when you get angry it's proof that someone spoke a truth, but it can certainly indicate a problem or an issue lurking below a normally calm surface. The point is that our first response is often to get angry, rather than reflect calmly on the thing that was said about us. If what is spoken is not true then we should get mad, but if it is true maybe we should look within and find out why.
Does the truth set you free? Jesus said it would in John 8:32. 2 Corinthians 13:5, “Examine yourselves whether ye be in the faith; prove yourselves…”Sometimes a self examination is a painful thing but it is necessary to get a clear view of who we are. Someone has said you can’t fix something until you know it is broken. When other see a fault and bring it to our attention it may well make us mad. If we are honest with ourselves we should put our mad away and look inside and see if the comment is true. We then should make the necessary changes to improve ourselves. When we are told we are lost and in need of a savior most people will run away until the Holy Spirit convicts them of their need. If no change is made the result could be separation from God for eternity. When we accept Jesus into our heart we become a new creature, a new person with new life. We are then born into the family of God everything in the past is forgotten by God, forgiven, and we have our eyes opened to something great and rewarding. “And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.”
“When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed their teeth.”
Many times we men are accused of having selective hearing by our wives. This is evidenced by the fact that we have to turn up the TV to hear the programs. Or ask what did the preacher say in church and that we regularly ask our wives to repeat what they tell us. However, all of this doesn’t mean we have a hearing problem. All the while there may be a logical reason to explain that but has nothing to do with our ability to hear.
Who is right? It's hard to say, but when we are told we need to go to a doctor our macho takes over and we get mad. Why do we get mad? I don't know for sure but it is probably because we are afraid she is right. It is true selective hearing is practiced, but then is because we just don’t want to hear the truth when we turn off what we are being told?
What makes you mad when someone says something about you? I'm not suggesting that when you get angry it's proof that someone spoke a truth, but it can certainly indicate a problem or an issue lurking below a normally calm surface. The point is that our first response is often to get angry, rather than reflect calmly on the thing that was said about us. If what is spoken is not true then we should get mad, but if it is true maybe we should look within and find out why.
Does the truth set you free? Jesus said it would in John 8:32. 2 Corinthians 13:5, “Examine yourselves whether ye be in the faith; prove yourselves…”Sometimes a self examination is a painful thing but it is necessary to get a clear view of who we are. Someone has said you can’t fix something until you know it is broken. When other see a fault and bring it to our attention it may well make us mad. If we are honest with ourselves we should put our mad away and look inside and see if the comment is true. We then should make the necessary changes to improve ourselves. When we are told we are lost and in need of a savior most people will run away until the Holy Spirit convicts them of their need. If no change is made the result could be separation from God for eternity. When we accept Jesus into our heart we become a new creature, a new person with new life. We are then born into the family of God everything in the past is forgotten by God, forgiven, and we have our eyes opened to something great and rewarding. “And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.”
Friday, May 27, 2011
Instructions to Children
Ephesians 6:1-2 “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor your father and Mother which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee and thou may live long on the earth.”
As we live and learn about how to live in this world there comes a time when we must look at how we have been raised and the values our parents gave to us. Paul here is giving children a two fold instruction. He begins with “obey your parents”. This flies in the face of the young generation today. It does not matter whether they agree with their parents, understand their rules, or see their individual flaws. Children are to obey their parents promptly, cheerfully, and completely—as long as they are not asked to disobey God’s clear command. Children, obey your parents in the Lord.
Then the second tier of the instruction is to honor their parents. What does this mean? Honoring one’s parents’ means respecting the position of authority that they have over you, as their child, and showing that respect in actions and words. There is a Southern tradition that many think is old and out dated. That being to say, yes sir and yes mam. That shows respect. Saying ok or yeah does not show respect.
Respect is also something that is earned. Parents also have an obligation to their children. They are to teach and train them how to respect those who have authority over you by word and deed. Children learn what they see; if a parent does not respect the law neither will their children. If parents do not honor their parents how can they expect their children to honor them? Parents are to teach their children that God requires obedience as much as they need to teach all other Bible lessons. Your children should know God requires obedience and honor from them, toward you, for his glory. Being just your child’s “friend”, rather than their parent, is not an option God gives us.
It would stand to reason then, if children are to honor their earth-bound parents, and honor them with their actions and words, how much more should every child of God honor our Father in heaven? Do we submit to Him promptly and cheerfully? Do we revere Him in all we do and say? Are we teaching our children by example?
As we live and learn about how to live in this world there comes a time when we must look at how we have been raised and the values our parents gave to us. Paul here is giving children a two fold instruction. He begins with “obey your parents”. This flies in the face of the young generation today. It does not matter whether they agree with their parents, understand their rules, or see their individual flaws. Children are to obey their parents promptly, cheerfully, and completely—as long as they are not asked to disobey God’s clear command. Children, obey your parents in the Lord.
Then the second tier of the instruction is to honor their parents. What does this mean? Honoring one’s parents’ means respecting the position of authority that they have over you, as their child, and showing that respect in actions and words. There is a Southern tradition that many think is old and out dated. That being to say, yes sir and yes mam. That shows respect. Saying ok or yeah does not show respect.
Respect is also something that is earned. Parents also have an obligation to their children. They are to teach and train them how to respect those who have authority over you by word and deed. Children learn what they see; if a parent does not respect the law neither will their children. If parents do not honor their parents how can they expect their children to honor them? Parents are to teach their children that God requires obedience as much as they need to teach all other Bible lessons. Your children should know God requires obedience and honor from them, toward you, for his glory. Being just your child’s “friend”, rather than their parent, is not an option God gives us.
It would stand to reason then, if children are to honor their earth-bound parents, and honor them with their actions and words, how much more should every child of God honor our Father in heaven? Do we submit to Him promptly and cheerfully? Do we revere Him in all we do and say? Are we teaching our children by example?
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Prayer
Ephesians 6:18 “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
Following a description of who we fight against and how we are to best be protected Paul gives us a great resource. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17 we find we are to pray without ceasing. Paul is telling us we are to have our whole life constantly bathed in prayer. How many times do we pray one prayer then wonder why we see no results? We should always pray with thanksgiving for what God has done and is doing in our lives. It is through prayer we talk to God and confess sins seek forgiveness and make our hearts request to a Holy Righteous God.
Even though we do all the right things sometimes we feel God has not heard our prayer. Remember you are always heard. I have heard people say, “I just don’t feel my prayers go anywhere, I don’t feel they are being heard.” Remember what Jesus said, “Seek and ye shall find knock and it shall be opened unto you.” Remember this no is an answer too. Remember also the answer comes in God’s own time in His own way. His timetable is far different from ours. Yet we are encouraged to continue to pray, to keep asking and keep knocking. The very thought that your humble prayer offered up to a Holy Righteous God will actually be heard and answered should be incentive enough keep coming to the throne of grace to find mercy and help in time of need.
Jesus told us He would never leave us of forsake us. When we are weak He is strong. Humble ourselves and pray turn from our wicked ways and He will hear from heaven and heal our land. We all face problems and trials in our lives. Some are small some are overwhelming but if we take matters to God in prayer seeking His will and following His lead we will have peace and joy. Remember this nothing is too large or too hard for God. Pray without ceasing.
Following a description of who we fight against and how we are to best be protected Paul gives us a great resource. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17 we find we are to pray without ceasing. Paul is telling us we are to have our whole life constantly bathed in prayer. How many times do we pray one prayer then wonder why we see no results? We should always pray with thanksgiving for what God has done and is doing in our lives. It is through prayer we talk to God and confess sins seek forgiveness and make our hearts request to a Holy Righteous God.
Even though we do all the right things sometimes we feel God has not heard our prayer. Remember you are always heard. I have heard people say, “I just don’t feel my prayers go anywhere, I don’t feel they are being heard.” Remember what Jesus said, “Seek and ye shall find knock and it shall be opened unto you.” Remember this no is an answer too. Remember also the answer comes in God’s own time in His own way. His timetable is far different from ours. Yet we are encouraged to continue to pray, to keep asking and keep knocking. The very thought that your humble prayer offered up to a Holy Righteous God will actually be heard and answered should be incentive enough keep coming to the throne of grace to find mercy and help in time of need.
Jesus told us He would never leave us of forsake us. When we are weak He is strong. Humble ourselves and pray turn from our wicked ways and He will hear from heaven and heal our land. We all face problems and trials in our lives. Some are small some are overwhelming but if we take matters to God in prayer seeking His will and following His lead we will have peace and joy. Remember this nothing is too large or too hard for God. Pray without ceasing.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Finding Yourself Spiritually Far From God
Acts 7:40-43
Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.
While Moses was on the mountain talking to God Israel was complaining about being led out of bondage in Egypt. So they decided to change leadership. They convinced Aaron to make them a golden image that they could see and worship. They took their eyes off God.
Have you ever got up one day and wondered, “Just how did I get here? How did I get myself in this condition? Where did God go? How did my life get so out of control, so far from being Christ-centered?” While this can be a humbling and embarrassing experience it is not the end of the world. How did this happen? The answer –one step at a time, one rejection of Jesus after another, until finally---just like Israel—God turned away, and gave them over to the worship of heavenly bodies. That couldn’t happen you say God would never do that? Well He did it to Israel could he not do it to us? Would God really walk away from us? No but He will not stop us from walking away from Him.
Do we lose our salvation when we find ourselves spiritually far from God? Did the Israelites stop being God's people because they began to worship other gods? Did they lose their inheritance? Thankfully the answer is no.
They were still God's people, and their descendants received the inheritance -- because of God's faithfulness, despite their lack of faithfulness. The same is true for us. God still love us even when we don’t love Him.
When you find yourself spiritually far from God, how do you get back?
The Bible tells us repeatedly -- the answer is to repent (which means to change your mind or thought). It is so easy to slip away. But it is just as easy to return. What will your choice be today?
Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.
While Moses was on the mountain talking to God Israel was complaining about being led out of bondage in Egypt. So they decided to change leadership. They convinced Aaron to make them a golden image that they could see and worship. They took their eyes off God.
Have you ever got up one day and wondered, “Just how did I get here? How did I get myself in this condition? Where did God go? How did my life get so out of control, so far from being Christ-centered?” While this can be a humbling and embarrassing experience it is not the end of the world. How did this happen? The answer –one step at a time, one rejection of Jesus after another, until finally---just like Israel—God turned away, and gave them over to the worship of heavenly bodies. That couldn’t happen you say God would never do that? Well He did it to Israel could he not do it to us? Would God really walk away from us? No but He will not stop us from walking away from Him.
Do we lose our salvation when we find ourselves spiritually far from God? Did the Israelites stop being God's people because they began to worship other gods? Did they lose their inheritance? Thankfully the answer is no.
They were still God's people, and their descendants received the inheritance -- because of God's faithfulness, despite their lack of faithfulness. The same is true for us. God still love us even when we don’t love Him.
When you find yourself spiritually far from God, how do you get back?
The Bible tells us repeatedly -- the answer is to repent (which means to change your mind or thought). It is so easy to slip away. But it is just as easy to return. What will your choice be today?
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Where Do You Keep Jesus
Acts 7:45-50
Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.
Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;
Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.
But Solomon built him an house. Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?
Hath not my hand made all these things?
Stephen is speaking to the Sanhedrin and is reminding them of the scriptures they are supposed to honor. He is also reminding those religious leaders, using familiar scripture references that God does not live in a building or a place. The Jews went from taking God with them every where they went, to building a house for Him, and visiting Him when it was convenient. Do you see yourself in this story?
I've seen it and experienced it hundreds of times. A person is saved and is on fire for the Lord; a Bible is always on hand; Jesus dominates all their conversations; and there are never enough church services or bible studies to attend. Then over time the fire rages less -- there is room for other points of view and other activities. Compartmentalization begins: work is for work, play is for play, and church is for church. Activities and Jesus are separated -- religion isn't let into the office or onto the basketball court. Then all that are around are totally surprised when they learn you are a Christian.
At this point we need an attitude adjustment, and that is why the Lord puts things in the proper perspective for us when we are confused: "Heaven is my throne, the earth is my footstool." That kind of tells you who is in charge, and where God is. God goes on to ask you a question: "Has not my hand made all these things?" God made your career and He made the basketball court, so why do you keep Him in church? When the Sunday service is over and all are leaving the church does Jesus gets to come home with you? Or do you leave him there so He will be safe and waiting should you need Him? If you leave Jesus at church what does He do all week waiting for your return?
If you leave Jesus at church how can He help or protect you? These are silly questions as we all know Jesus does not live in a building made with hands. Why then do we act like he does? If Jesus lives in your heart He goes where you go, knows what you do, and hears what you say. Or did you leave Jesus in church the last time you were there?
In what area of your life have you compartmentalized Jesus? Does He go with you wherever you go? Under what circumstances would you be tempted to leave Him at church? What behavior or attitude needs to change?
Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.
Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;
Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.
But Solomon built him an house. Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?
Hath not my hand made all these things?
Stephen is speaking to the Sanhedrin and is reminding them of the scriptures they are supposed to honor. He is also reminding those religious leaders, using familiar scripture references that God does not live in a building or a place. The Jews went from taking God with them every where they went, to building a house for Him, and visiting Him when it was convenient. Do you see yourself in this story?
I've seen it and experienced it hundreds of times. A person is saved and is on fire for the Lord; a Bible is always on hand; Jesus dominates all their conversations; and there are never enough church services or bible studies to attend. Then over time the fire rages less -- there is room for other points of view and other activities. Compartmentalization begins: work is for work, play is for play, and church is for church. Activities and Jesus are separated -- religion isn't let into the office or onto the basketball court. Then all that are around are totally surprised when they learn you are a Christian.
At this point we need an attitude adjustment, and that is why the Lord puts things in the proper perspective for us when we are confused: "Heaven is my throne, the earth is my footstool." That kind of tells you who is in charge, and where God is. God goes on to ask you a question: "Has not my hand made all these things?" God made your career and He made the basketball court, so why do you keep Him in church? When the Sunday service is over and all are leaving the church does Jesus gets to come home with you? Or do you leave him there so He will be safe and waiting should you need Him? If you leave Jesus at church what does He do all week waiting for your return?
If you leave Jesus at church how can He help or protect you? These are silly questions as we all know Jesus does not live in a building made with hands. Why then do we act like he does? If Jesus lives in your heart He goes where you go, knows what you do, and hears what you say. Or did you leave Jesus in church the last time you were there?
In what area of your life have you compartmentalized Jesus? Does He go with you wherever you go? Under what circumstances would you be tempted to leave Him at church? What behavior or attitude needs to change?
Friday, May 20, 2011
Waiting Upon the Lord
Psalm 27:12-14
Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
We all at some times in our lives face what we feel are trials that seem at the moment to be overwhelming. It is at those times we may not feel the Lords presence. Could it be we are not waiting on the Lord? Could it be we are on our timetable and are running madly ahead of God hoping He will catch up with our plans? It would be nice if God worked that way but in truth He doesn’t. He does not change just because we are in a hurry and are impatient.
We all hear the voices of those who are against us and they seem to have the upper hand. If we will but lift our eyes we will see God is there at our side. For He promised he would never leave us nor forsake us.
If you are a child of God you can be sure the devil will be working overtime to make sure you stumble. I do not doubt your trials are real, your burdens are heavy, or that your discouragements are deep. You may feel those who oppose you are ever strengthening. Keep this promise firmly fixed in your mind and heart God will never leave you nor forsake you. God is never late and he is never insufficient. When we wait courageously upon the Lord, He will strengthen our hearts. Place your problems and your enemies in God’s hands and let Him deal with them.
If your future is unclear, wait upon the Lord. When will your sorrow end? Wait upon the Lord. How can I survive the attacks of those who would see me fail? Wait upon the Lord. Listen closely to the echoes sounding through time and from the sounding board of millions of satisfied saints and you will hear, “Wait, I say upon the Lord.”
The trial may not go away tomorrow, but neither will the strength that God has promised to give you. The pain may not diminish, but neither will the grace of God leave you. Your enemies may howl but God will be your shield. Wait upon the Lord.
Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
We all at some times in our lives face what we feel are trials that seem at the moment to be overwhelming. It is at those times we may not feel the Lords presence. Could it be we are not waiting on the Lord? Could it be we are on our timetable and are running madly ahead of God hoping He will catch up with our plans? It would be nice if God worked that way but in truth He doesn’t. He does not change just because we are in a hurry and are impatient.
We all hear the voices of those who are against us and they seem to have the upper hand. If we will but lift our eyes we will see God is there at our side. For He promised he would never leave us nor forsake us.
If you are a child of God you can be sure the devil will be working overtime to make sure you stumble. I do not doubt your trials are real, your burdens are heavy, or that your discouragements are deep. You may feel those who oppose you are ever strengthening. Keep this promise firmly fixed in your mind and heart God will never leave you nor forsake you. God is never late and he is never insufficient. When we wait courageously upon the Lord, He will strengthen our hearts. Place your problems and your enemies in God’s hands and let Him deal with them.
If your future is unclear, wait upon the Lord. When will your sorrow end? Wait upon the Lord. How can I survive the attacks of those who would see me fail? Wait upon the Lord. Listen closely to the echoes sounding through time and from the sounding board of millions of satisfied saints and you will hear, “Wait, I say upon the Lord.”
The trial may not go away tomorrow, but neither will the strength that God has promised to give you. The pain may not diminish, but neither will the grace of God leave you. Your enemies may howl but God will be your shield. Wait upon the Lord.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
How Will You Answer God's Call?
Acts 7:34-36 “I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. I will send thee into Egypt. This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? The same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.”
Stephen is reminding the Sanhedrin of the story of Moses, he uses these words of God to Moses, "Now come, I will send you back to Egypt." What a great statement! God had just finished telling Moses how he had seen the oppression of His people, heard their groaning, and was going to come down to set them free and make things right. Yea God they need your help let me know how that turns out. Moses never dreamed what God was fixing to say. "I will send you back to Egypt." “You are going to do what? Why me? You know I can’t talk and what would I even say to Pharaoh? You want me to tell Pharaoh What? Let my people go? And he is going to listen to me?”
Isn't that just like us? We want God to get in there and fix our problem (right the injustice and deliver the innocent). We want God to heal our land and give us peace. But isn't that just like God to say, "Okay -- come on -- right now -- let's do it -- hmmm….who will I send? -- oh yeah -- I'll send you!" That's usually not what we have in mind when we ask for God's intercession. We want God to do it and leave us on the sideline to watch. “God You go ahead and deal with all those gang bangers and drug lords. Talk to those crooked politicians and set them straight. Let me know when you finish and get things fixed. I’m going to set here in this warm pew and watch.”
God raises "deliverers" during times of need. Why? I believe it is because God makes himself known -- less from the miracle than through the testimony and life of the one who accepts God's call. Moses accepted God's call, and the Israelites were led out of captivity as a result. Stephen stood up for what he believed and Paul was placed under convection and most of the New Testament many new churches and many came to know Christ was the result.
In what area of your life are you asking for God to intercede? When (not if) He asks you, "Now come, I will send you," how will you answer? How can God use you?
Stephen is reminding the Sanhedrin of the story of Moses, he uses these words of God to Moses, "Now come, I will send you back to Egypt." What a great statement! God had just finished telling Moses how he had seen the oppression of His people, heard their groaning, and was going to come down to set them free and make things right. Yea God they need your help let me know how that turns out. Moses never dreamed what God was fixing to say. "I will send you back to Egypt." “You are going to do what? Why me? You know I can’t talk and what would I even say to Pharaoh? You want me to tell Pharaoh What? Let my people go? And he is going to listen to me?”
Isn't that just like us? We want God to get in there and fix our problem (right the injustice and deliver the innocent). We want God to heal our land and give us peace. But isn't that just like God to say, "Okay -- come on -- right now -- let's do it -- hmmm….who will I send? -- oh yeah -- I'll send you!" That's usually not what we have in mind when we ask for God's intercession. We want God to do it and leave us on the sideline to watch. “God You go ahead and deal with all those gang bangers and drug lords. Talk to those crooked politicians and set them straight. Let me know when you finish and get things fixed. I’m going to set here in this warm pew and watch.”
God raises "deliverers" during times of need. Why? I believe it is because God makes himself known -- less from the miracle than through the testimony and life of the one who accepts God's call. Moses accepted God's call, and the Israelites were led out of captivity as a result. Stephen stood up for what he believed and Paul was placed under convection and most of the New Testament many new churches and many came to know Christ was the result.
In what area of your life are you asking for God to intercede? When (not if) He asks you, "Now come, I will send you," how will you answer? How can God use you?
Monday, May 16, 2011
What the Lord Hates
Proverbs 6:16-19, “These six things doeth the Lord hate: yea seven are an abomination unto Him: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, , feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among the brethren.”
Most often we talk about God and His love for us. How He cares for us and how He protects us. Have you ever considered there may something God doesn’t like? Let us not only consider what God dislikes let us take a closer look at what He hates. Hate is a word no one likes to hear. Does God really hate something? Yes and Proverbs 6:16-19 makes it clear there are six things God hates. Seven are listed but the seventh goes beyond hate all the way to abomination.
A proud look on the faces God’s children causes concern for God. For in a proud look we see not only selfish indignation but a haughty better than thou attitude. If we are looking down our noises at others we cannot be looking up to God. God hates that!
We have all met people who we are sure there is no truth in them. The Native Americans had a saying about those who would not tell the truth. They spoke with a forked tongue. No one likes to be around anyone who simply cannot tell the truth. God hates that as well!
Hands that shed innocent blood not only does God hate this but we should as well. It should not matter a serial killer or a terrorist we all should hate that and try to stop that. God does.
A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations is a description of many in our country. This generation is fast becoming just like the one that prevailed in Sodom. God destroyed that city and killed all that lived there; save Lot and some of his family. Could this be our fate if we do not turn from our wicked ways? If God hates it you be the judge?
Feet that are swift to run to mischief sounds a lot like gang violence or drug use, but then it could also mean something else? How about gossiping about someone or doing something that aggravates another? Could that be considered mischief? How about doing something that would cause another harm or loss, mischievous yes? God hates that?
Wagging tongues that speak falsehoods gossip and backbiting especially in the church are distasteful to God. You may not like what the preacher spoke about on Sunday if so then take it up with God not spread false rumors about the preacher. You sure would not like it if someone talked about you the same way you talked about others. God hates this!
There is something far worse than the six things that God hates that is sowing discord among the brethren. Something horrible an object of intense dislike, disgusting or shameful---abomination! Why sowing discord would be raised to the level of abomination? For one thing it hinders the cause of Christ. Second it is what the devil uses to destroy the church of God. Discord can and will quickly cause the spirit to be quenched and the joy leave the church. If the church can be destroyed then that is a good reason to be called an abomination.
Most often we talk about God and His love for us. How He cares for us and how He protects us. Have you ever considered there may something God doesn’t like? Let us not only consider what God dislikes let us take a closer look at what He hates. Hate is a word no one likes to hear. Does God really hate something? Yes and Proverbs 6:16-19 makes it clear there are six things God hates. Seven are listed but the seventh goes beyond hate all the way to abomination.
A proud look on the faces God’s children causes concern for God. For in a proud look we see not only selfish indignation but a haughty better than thou attitude. If we are looking down our noises at others we cannot be looking up to God. God hates that!
We have all met people who we are sure there is no truth in them. The Native Americans had a saying about those who would not tell the truth. They spoke with a forked tongue. No one likes to be around anyone who simply cannot tell the truth. God hates that as well!
Hands that shed innocent blood not only does God hate this but we should as well. It should not matter a serial killer or a terrorist we all should hate that and try to stop that. God does.
A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations is a description of many in our country. This generation is fast becoming just like the one that prevailed in Sodom. God destroyed that city and killed all that lived there; save Lot and some of his family. Could this be our fate if we do not turn from our wicked ways? If God hates it you be the judge?
Feet that are swift to run to mischief sounds a lot like gang violence or drug use, but then it could also mean something else? How about gossiping about someone or doing something that aggravates another? Could that be considered mischief? How about doing something that would cause another harm or loss, mischievous yes? God hates that?
Wagging tongues that speak falsehoods gossip and backbiting especially in the church are distasteful to God. You may not like what the preacher spoke about on Sunday if so then take it up with God not spread false rumors about the preacher. You sure would not like it if someone talked about you the same way you talked about others. God hates this!
There is something far worse than the six things that God hates that is sowing discord among the brethren. Something horrible an object of intense dislike, disgusting or shameful---abomination! Why sowing discord would be raised to the level of abomination? For one thing it hinders the cause of Christ. Second it is what the devil uses to destroy the church of God. Discord can and will quickly cause the spirit to be quenched and the joy leave the church. If the church can be destroyed then that is a good reason to be called an abomination.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
How To Know God
How To Know God
Acts 7:31-32
When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the LORD came unto him, Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.
Yesterday we looked at how God gets our attention. When He does do we know who He is? God doesn't have an identity problem -- He knows who He is. The problem is: Do we know who He is? He is the God or the universe and the creator of all. But just that fact does not give us a clue who God is or what He represents. What God represents to us in our lives is how we will define Him to our friends, neighbors, business associates and families. So then do we respect Him? Do we fear Him? Do we even know Him? Do you know more about Donald Trump than you do about God?
I think it's funny how the world defines God: God is love as if that's all He is -- all warm and cuddly. Does that mean He stops loving as in a divorce? God is in the smile of a child some have said. My question then what about when the child frowns or misbehaves is God still there or does He leave? God is in nature (what they're talking about is a flower or a waterfall -- but what about a flood or a hurricane that cost hundreds of lives and millions of dollars -- is God in that part of nature as well? If that is the only way we can describe God; that only reveals how much we don't know about God. If someone tried to describe you when they've only seen you in the distance, or defining your profession and all of your ability by something you built when you were 5 years old. What would you think? Would they know much about you? Probably not. Could God feel the same way?
I believe God speaks to us all the time through personal "burning bushes." The problem is: We don't recognize who He is because we aren't familiar with Him.
How well do you know God? Can you name 5 things God says about Himself? 10? How about 20? In Scripture, God has described Himself to us in great detail. How can you recognize or understand God's meaning in an experience if you are unfamiliar with who He says He is? What can you do today to begin to know God better?
Acts 7:31-32
When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the LORD came unto him, Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.
Yesterday we looked at how God gets our attention. When He does do we know who He is? God doesn't have an identity problem -- He knows who He is. The problem is: Do we know who He is? He is the God or the universe and the creator of all. But just that fact does not give us a clue who God is or what He represents. What God represents to us in our lives is how we will define Him to our friends, neighbors, business associates and families. So then do we respect Him? Do we fear Him? Do we even know Him? Do you know more about Donald Trump than you do about God?
I think it's funny how the world defines God: God is love as if that's all He is -- all warm and cuddly. Does that mean He stops loving as in a divorce? God is in the smile of a child some have said. My question then what about when the child frowns or misbehaves is God still there or does He leave? God is in nature (what they're talking about is a flower or a waterfall -- but what about a flood or a hurricane that cost hundreds of lives and millions of dollars -- is God in that part of nature as well? If that is the only way we can describe God; that only reveals how much we don't know about God. If someone tried to describe you when they've only seen you in the distance, or defining your profession and all of your ability by something you built when you were 5 years old. What would you think? Would they know much about you? Probably not. Could God feel the same way?
I believe God speaks to us all the time through personal "burning bushes." The problem is: We don't recognize who He is because we aren't familiar with Him.
How well do you know God? Can you name 5 things God says about Himself? 10? How about 20? In Scripture, God has described Himself to us in great detail. How can you recognize or understand God's meaning in an experience if you are unfamiliar with who He says He is? What can you do today to begin to know God better?
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
What Does It Take To Get Your Attention
Acts 7:30-31
And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.
When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the LORD came unto him,
We find Moses wandering in the desert after he has defended a Hebrew worker and killed an Egyptian. He was sure his life in Egypt was over and had no purpose or direction. The Lord had other ideas. He decided it was time to get Moses’ attention---to place him back in service.
Moses thought life was as good as it gets, he married and was raising a family had few cares until that fateful morning. As he was tending his sheep he noticed a very strange thing. There in the desert a bush was burning but something was not right. So he gets closer to see just what is going on. As he gets closer he not only sees the burning bush he hears the voice of God. No doubt that got his attention.
Many times when we are in our own desert, out self imposed exile as it were, we don't hear the Lord's voice because we are too consumed with our own thoughts -- so the Lord needs to get our attention. Do we see a burning bush or hear the booming voice of God? No but God does use circumstances and events to get our attention.
In Moses' case it was a burning bush -- something ordinary (a bush), that became extraordinary. It was amazing to him (after all it's not every day you see a burning bush in the middle of the desert), so he went over to check it out (the Lord got his attention).
It took a bush set on fire to get Moses’ attention, but once God had his attention He was able to talk to him. This is a really important point to me. Many people think the key to this story is the burning bush (the miracle); I think the more important point is that God is always speaking to us -- it's just sometimes He needs to use rather dramatic means to get our attention so we hear him. What would it take for God to get your attention?
Most women are sure their husbands possess selective hearing. We men certainly do appear to have an innate ability to concentrate and block out all distractions at times. Unfortunately, this same ability to insulate ourselves can also hurt us when God is trying to talk to us. How does God get your attention? Does He have to set something on fire, tear something down or break something before we will hear Him? Does He currently have your attention? What is He trying to tell you? Are you listening? Or are you waiting for a burning bush?
And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.
When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the LORD came unto him,
We find Moses wandering in the desert after he has defended a Hebrew worker and killed an Egyptian. He was sure his life in Egypt was over and had no purpose or direction. The Lord had other ideas. He decided it was time to get Moses’ attention---to place him back in service.
Moses thought life was as good as it gets, he married and was raising a family had few cares until that fateful morning. As he was tending his sheep he noticed a very strange thing. There in the desert a bush was burning but something was not right. So he gets closer to see just what is going on. As he gets closer he not only sees the burning bush he hears the voice of God. No doubt that got his attention.
Many times when we are in our own desert, out self imposed exile as it were, we don't hear the Lord's voice because we are too consumed with our own thoughts -- so the Lord needs to get our attention. Do we see a burning bush or hear the booming voice of God? No but God does use circumstances and events to get our attention.
In Moses' case it was a burning bush -- something ordinary (a bush), that became extraordinary. It was amazing to him (after all it's not every day you see a burning bush in the middle of the desert), so he went over to check it out (the Lord got his attention).
It took a bush set on fire to get Moses’ attention, but once God had his attention He was able to talk to him. This is a really important point to me. Many people think the key to this story is the burning bush (the miracle); I think the more important point is that God is always speaking to us -- it's just sometimes He needs to use rather dramatic means to get our attention so we hear him. What would it take for God to get your attention?
Most women are sure their husbands possess selective hearing. We men certainly do appear to have an innate ability to concentrate and block out all distractions at times. Unfortunately, this same ability to insulate ourselves can also hurt us when God is trying to talk to us. How does God get your attention? Does He have to set something on fire, tear something down or break something before we will hear Him? Does He currently have your attention? What is He trying to tell you? Are you listening? Or are you waiting for a burning bush?
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
What To Do WhenTempted
James 1:14-15
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
How does temptation work? What does sinful temptation consist of? Temptation is an age old problem that has plagued man from the time he was in the garden. James is showing us two very important aspects of temptation we must all consider: first, it is being drawn away from God. Second it is being enticed by one’s own lust.
For him that knoweth to do right and doth it not to him it is sin. We can all tell ourselves it is ok or it will not matter but if our actions thoughts and desires draw us away from God then it is wrong. It does not matter where our affection lie, on a rock star, country music legend, a football team or even a family member if those affections are allowed to come between us and the single-minded pursuit of God’s glory then we have made an error.
Before you judge that statement or get upset and turn off your mind think about what it means. It does not mean we are to cease to care for or serve others; it does mean that even our closest relationships and most committed labors must all be grounded in, and flowing out of, our love for Christ. If we do what we do would Christ be pleased should be our guide.
Notice it is our own lust that draws us away from God. That is not to say every lust (strong passion or desire) is wrong. Whether the lust is good or bad is entirely dependent on how it is perceived and qualified. Is it the lust of men, of the world, of the flesh? Are they our own desires /passions, or did they come from God to be used for His Glory? If they are self-motivated or self-originated then it is safe to say those lust are sinful. On the other hand if God gives us the overwhelming desire and passion for a specific calling then we are not to conclude that would draw us away from Him. On the contrary if it is from God you can rest assured it will only draw you closer to Him.
Every person is tempted by their passions or selfish pursuits to be drawn away from God. That is a tool Satan uses to defeat God’s people. If he can get your mind off God he wins. The lust of the flesh the pride of life is but a few things used to get you away from God. We are all tempted every day to do something we know deep down we should not do.
Romans 8: 5-8 “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.”
When Jesus was tempted by the devil what did He do? Quoted Scripture and the told the devil to get behind him. Matthew 4: 10, “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” As God’s kids we also have the same power to tell the devil to take a hike.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
How does temptation work? What does sinful temptation consist of? Temptation is an age old problem that has plagued man from the time he was in the garden. James is showing us two very important aspects of temptation we must all consider: first, it is being drawn away from God. Second it is being enticed by one’s own lust.
For him that knoweth to do right and doth it not to him it is sin. We can all tell ourselves it is ok or it will not matter but if our actions thoughts and desires draw us away from God then it is wrong. It does not matter where our affection lie, on a rock star, country music legend, a football team or even a family member if those affections are allowed to come between us and the single-minded pursuit of God’s glory then we have made an error.
Before you judge that statement or get upset and turn off your mind think about what it means. It does not mean we are to cease to care for or serve others; it does mean that even our closest relationships and most committed labors must all be grounded in, and flowing out of, our love for Christ. If we do what we do would Christ be pleased should be our guide.
Notice it is our own lust that draws us away from God. That is not to say every lust (strong passion or desire) is wrong. Whether the lust is good or bad is entirely dependent on how it is perceived and qualified. Is it the lust of men, of the world, of the flesh? Are they our own desires /passions, or did they come from God to be used for His Glory? If they are self-motivated or self-originated then it is safe to say those lust are sinful. On the other hand if God gives us the overwhelming desire and passion for a specific calling then we are not to conclude that would draw us away from Him. On the contrary if it is from God you can rest assured it will only draw you closer to Him.
Every person is tempted by their passions or selfish pursuits to be drawn away from God. That is a tool Satan uses to defeat God’s people. If he can get your mind off God he wins. The lust of the flesh the pride of life is but a few things used to get you away from God. We are all tempted every day to do something we know deep down we should not do.
Romans 8: 5-8 “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.”
When Jesus was tempted by the devil what did He do? Quoted Scripture and the told the devil to get behind him. Matthew 4: 10, “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” As God’s kids we also have the same power to tell the devil to take a hike.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Breaking God's Heart
John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
How would you feel if someone you loved so much you would die for just turned their back on you and walked away? Would you chase after them? Would you beg them to come back? Would you yell at them? What would you do?
Jesus looked on Jerusalem and his heart was broken because they could not or would not see how much God loved them. When Jesus wept at the grave of Lazarus the Jews thought his tears were because a friend had died. They thought His heart was broken. In truth Jesus was crying for the Jews because of their unbelief. Crying for their lack of faith and crying because they did not see what God was tying to do. Jesus shed tears many times in His earthly ministry. Many times it was due to something man either was or wasn’t doing. On the night Judas betrayed Him Jesus wept for all mankind. He shed tears as he asks three times if there was another way to get God’s greatest creation to return to God. Those and many more times Jesus prayed with tears in his eyes because His heart was hurting for those He loved.
All those tears will not hurt God as much as those He will cry when He has to turn those He loved and died for away because they rejected His offer of salvation. Imagine if you will how God’s heart will be broken when at the Great White Throne Judgment He has to say “Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire.” Rev 20:11-15
What will be going through His mind as He thinks of the millions for whom He died on the cross who failed to accept His offer of freedom and life and have instead chosen death and hell?
When He thinks about the Christians who didn’t love Him enough to tell anyone about Him, or have faith enough to believe He would do what He said he would do? It would be nice if Jesus didn’t have to weep again but He will.
When those who have never accepted Him as personal savior stand before Him He will weep as He is forced to judge them and sentence them to an eternity in hell. As He cast them into the lake of fire He will weep bitter tears.
As those He loves have no rewards due to little faith and no fruits stand before Him he will weep because they didn’t care enough to share His love with those He has just cast into the fire.
Who will God’s heart break for the most the lost or the ones who just don’t care? Either way He will weep as he has done and continues to do.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
How would you feel if someone you loved so much you would die for just turned their back on you and walked away? Would you chase after them? Would you beg them to come back? Would you yell at them? What would you do?
Jesus looked on Jerusalem and his heart was broken because they could not or would not see how much God loved them. When Jesus wept at the grave of Lazarus the Jews thought his tears were because a friend had died. They thought His heart was broken. In truth Jesus was crying for the Jews because of their unbelief. Crying for their lack of faith and crying because they did not see what God was tying to do. Jesus shed tears many times in His earthly ministry. Many times it was due to something man either was or wasn’t doing. On the night Judas betrayed Him Jesus wept for all mankind. He shed tears as he asks three times if there was another way to get God’s greatest creation to return to God. Those and many more times Jesus prayed with tears in his eyes because His heart was hurting for those He loved.
All those tears will not hurt God as much as those He will cry when He has to turn those He loved and died for away because they rejected His offer of salvation. Imagine if you will how God’s heart will be broken when at the Great White Throne Judgment He has to say “Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire.” Rev 20:11-15
What will be going through His mind as He thinks of the millions for whom He died on the cross who failed to accept His offer of freedom and life and have instead chosen death and hell?
When He thinks about the Christians who didn’t love Him enough to tell anyone about Him, or have faith enough to believe He would do what He said he would do? It would be nice if Jesus didn’t have to weep again but He will.
When those who have never accepted Him as personal savior stand before Him He will weep as He is forced to judge them and sentence them to an eternity in hell. As He cast them into the lake of fire He will weep bitter tears.
As those He loves have no rewards due to little faith and no fruits stand before Him he will weep because they didn’t care enough to share His love with those He has just cast into the fire.
Who will God’s heart break for the most the lost or the ones who just don’t care? Either way He will weep as he has done and continues to do.
Friday, May 6, 2011
What Dose God Require?
Micah 6:7-8 “Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Many times men feel they can do better than God. This was true with the leaders of Israel when many times they felt they had the best plan for their offerings. They thought God would be satisfied as long as they called on His name every once in a while. Visited the Temple on special days and offered something shinny on the alter. But outward expressions of worship have never bee sufficient to satisfy God.
Remember what happened to King Saul when he was told by God to utterly destroy everything that belonged to the Amalekites. Saul felt that was not the best thing to do. He then brought some of the best cattle back to offer as a sacrifice to God. After all God would understand wouldn’t He? God then told Samuel to tell Saul “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” 1 Samuel 15:22 In other words outward expressions of worship without inward motivation is an abomination to God. God was not happy with Saul and he will not be happy with us.
So what does God require? First he requires we are to do justly. How many people do you know who trust you 100%? Or how many do you trust 100%? I mean how many people do you personally know who you trust completely? God requires us to be honest with other people. Do we say one thing on Sunday and another on Monday? God requires us to be the same every day of the week. To do less would make us a hypocrite.
God requires us to love mercy. Mercy means we don’t get what we deserve. Qualities such as longsuffering, forgiveness and patience go hand in hand with mercy. Kind of sounds like God wants us to be like Him. To love mercy means to do more than is required of us. It’s more than just keeping the letter of the law.
God requires us to walk humbly. No one likes a proud, stuck-up self-centered person, neither does God. In James 4:6 we are given this instruction, “But He giveth more grace, wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” God expects us to do more than just come to church on Sunday and Wednesday. He expects us to fulfill our obligations. He expects us to have more that an outward expression of worship. He expects us to have an inward spirit of humility, mercy and justice. Our outward expressions of worship are meaningless if we don’t have the right inward motivations. Traditions, rites and rituals are meaningless if we do not have the love of Christ in our hearts.
Many times men feel they can do better than God. This was true with the leaders of Israel when many times they felt they had the best plan for their offerings. They thought God would be satisfied as long as they called on His name every once in a while. Visited the Temple on special days and offered something shinny on the alter. But outward expressions of worship have never bee sufficient to satisfy God.
Remember what happened to King Saul when he was told by God to utterly destroy everything that belonged to the Amalekites. Saul felt that was not the best thing to do. He then brought some of the best cattle back to offer as a sacrifice to God. After all God would understand wouldn’t He? God then told Samuel to tell Saul “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” 1 Samuel 15:22 In other words outward expressions of worship without inward motivation is an abomination to God. God was not happy with Saul and he will not be happy with us.
So what does God require? First he requires we are to do justly. How many people do you know who trust you 100%? Or how many do you trust 100%? I mean how many people do you personally know who you trust completely? God requires us to be honest with other people. Do we say one thing on Sunday and another on Monday? God requires us to be the same every day of the week. To do less would make us a hypocrite.
God requires us to love mercy. Mercy means we don’t get what we deserve. Qualities such as longsuffering, forgiveness and patience go hand in hand with mercy. Kind of sounds like God wants us to be like Him. To love mercy means to do more than is required of us. It’s more than just keeping the letter of the law.
God requires us to walk humbly. No one likes a proud, stuck-up self-centered person, neither does God. In James 4:6 we are given this instruction, “But He giveth more grace, wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” God expects us to do more than just come to church on Sunday and Wednesday. He expects us to fulfill our obligations. He expects us to have more that an outward expression of worship. He expects us to have an inward spirit of humility, mercy and justice. Our outward expressions of worship are meaningless if we don’t have the right inward motivations. Traditions, rites and rituals are meaningless if we do not have the love of Christ in our hearts.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
In God's Hands
John 10: 28-29, “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
What does it mean to be in God’s hands? Let us first look at those hands. God’s hands crafted the heavens. With His hands he carpeted the mountains and formed the hills and valleys. Filled the oceans and planted all the trees and flowers. From the dust of the earth He made man in His own image and breathed into him the breath of life. God holds the entire world in His hands and has control of all that He has created. His hands are filed with love and caring for the sparrow and every living creature on this planet. Jesus said, “My Father, which gave them to me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
When Jesus came to this world in the form of man God placed in his hands the fate of all peoples past and future. Those same loving hands shaped wood, cast out demons and held the hand of a child. Hands raised in praise to the Father fed thousands. Could he have raised his hands summoned legions of angels to defeat the Roman army-- yes but then where would we be? He willingly spread His hands and took Roman nails on a cruel cross so that we might live.
So then when we accept Jesus as savior we are placed in God’s hands and we can never be removed. For anyone to even think God would drop something as precious as a soul His son died for is ridiculous. Jesus made it clear twice that we could not be taken out of God’s hands. When we are saved we are born into the family of God and there we shall remain. Just like when a child is born into an earthly family they are forever in that family. Good or bad they still are part of the family God sent them to.
So like a loving parent God cares for those in His family. Protects and corrects, loves and trains those He loves. With a gentle hand we are guided or with a stern hand we are corrected but we are always in His hands.
There are many other aspects of God’s hands that are too numerous to mention here. In God’s hands we secure and in God’s hands we will stay. For those who are not in His hands all you have to do is look to Jesus and ask to be forgiven and with all the love God has you will be born into His family and placed in His hands.
What does it mean to be in God’s hands? Let us first look at those hands. God’s hands crafted the heavens. With His hands he carpeted the mountains and formed the hills and valleys. Filled the oceans and planted all the trees and flowers. From the dust of the earth He made man in His own image and breathed into him the breath of life. God holds the entire world in His hands and has control of all that He has created. His hands are filed with love and caring for the sparrow and every living creature on this planet. Jesus said, “My Father, which gave them to me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
When Jesus came to this world in the form of man God placed in his hands the fate of all peoples past and future. Those same loving hands shaped wood, cast out demons and held the hand of a child. Hands raised in praise to the Father fed thousands. Could he have raised his hands summoned legions of angels to defeat the Roman army-- yes but then where would we be? He willingly spread His hands and took Roman nails on a cruel cross so that we might live.
So then when we accept Jesus as savior we are placed in God’s hands and we can never be removed. For anyone to even think God would drop something as precious as a soul His son died for is ridiculous. Jesus made it clear twice that we could not be taken out of God’s hands. When we are saved we are born into the family of God and there we shall remain. Just like when a child is born into an earthly family they are forever in that family. Good or bad they still are part of the family God sent them to.
So like a loving parent God cares for those in His family. Protects and corrects, loves and trains those He loves. With a gentle hand we are guided or with a stern hand we are corrected but we are always in His hands.
There are many other aspects of God’s hands that are too numerous to mention here. In God’s hands we secure and in God’s hands we will stay. For those who are not in His hands all you have to do is look to Jesus and ask to be forgiven and with all the love God has you will be born into His family and placed in His hands.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Strength and Encouragement
2 Corinthians 12:9 “For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Sometimes God answers our prayers with no. If He says no to one thing it may be He has something better in mind. Paul prayed three times fervently asking God to remove his thorn, a thorn that must have caused him great and continual pain. Finally God answered, “My grace is sufficient for thee: my strength is made perfect in weakness.” In our minds we often think if only this one thing was gone I would be great at what God called me to do. It is true God could grant that wish but He may also see we would use that as a self enhancing tool and forget who did the healing. Man is like that, he gets the answer he wants and then quickly thinks, “Hey look at me I must be something look what I got.” Our ego gets puffed up and we seem to forget God was the one who provided for us.
Notice God’s answer to Paul. He didn’t say ‘My grace is sufficient for this difficulty.” He said, “My grace is sufficient for you, Paul.” Paul prayed for deliverance from one ordeal, but God granted him grace for everything he would encounter in his life. Paul did not stop hurting and having problems in his life. God is reminding Paul, and us, His grace is sufficient. Through it all Paul had many opportunities to exalt the name of Jesus. His pain kept him humble and mindful of God and His strength. God showed Paul that His strength was even more evident in times of weakness than at any other time. Paul as you struggle and wake up each morning hurting remember I am here to help you show others about My Son. Paul when you are weak I am strong.
This should be our battle cry as Christians we stand against unbelievable odds and our worst enemy. When we are weak He is strong. God’s grace is sufficient to sustain us in all we do. Our goal is not to glorify ourselves but to glorify Christ.
Rest assured that God’s grace is still sufficient, and that His power is still being manifested through the difficulties we face in our lives.
Sometimes God answers our prayers with no. If He says no to one thing it may be He has something better in mind. Paul prayed three times fervently asking God to remove his thorn, a thorn that must have caused him great and continual pain. Finally God answered, “My grace is sufficient for thee: my strength is made perfect in weakness.” In our minds we often think if only this one thing was gone I would be great at what God called me to do. It is true God could grant that wish but He may also see we would use that as a self enhancing tool and forget who did the healing. Man is like that, he gets the answer he wants and then quickly thinks, “Hey look at me I must be something look what I got.” Our ego gets puffed up and we seem to forget God was the one who provided for us.
Notice God’s answer to Paul. He didn’t say ‘My grace is sufficient for this difficulty.” He said, “My grace is sufficient for you, Paul.” Paul prayed for deliverance from one ordeal, but God granted him grace for everything he would encounter in his life. Paul did not stop hurting and having problems in his life. God is reminding Paul, and us, His grace is sufficient. Through it all Paul had many opportunities to exalt the name of Jesus. His pain kept him humble and mindful of God and His strength. God showed Paul that His strength was even more evident in times of weakness than at any other time. Paul as you struggle and wake up each morning hurting remember I am here to help you show others about My Son. Paul when you are weak I am strong.
This should be our battle cry as Christians we stand against unbelievable odds and our worst enemy. When we are weak He is strong. God’s grace is sufficient to sustain us in all we do. Our goal is not to glorify ourselves but to glorify Christ.
Rest assured that God’s grace is still sufficient, and that His power is still being manifested through the difficulties we face in our lives.
Monday, May 2, 2011
How Do We Hear God?
Proverbs 8:33-36 “Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.
Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.
But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.
No matter who we are or how old we are we all have difficulty at times receiving instructions. This especially appears to be true when it comes to listening to God and following His instructions. Yet godly wisdom is pure and will always prove to be correct. When we walk in His wisdom we are pleasing to God. It has long been proven that when we listen to men we become foolish. Proverbs 12:15 explains it best, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto council is wise.”
We are urged to not only hear instruction but to listen to it. Apply it to our life and put it into practice. Wisdom then, is not knowing all the answers yourself, but hearing and implementing the wise council of God’s Word. To find genuine wisdom we must walk in the favor of the Lord. When we find wisdom we also find life.
We heard a great message this last Sunday when our pastor gave us instructions on how not to be defeated. He showed how Peter, a lowly fisherman was turned into a great preacher because he listened to what God was calling him to do. We also learned how long suffering, how forgiving, and how loving God is.
It is only when we walk in the light and love of God can we see where we need to go. We see in these verses we are blessed when we hear God’s instructions. We are also given instructions what we are to do once we hear the instruction. We are to watch daily at His gates for direction and we are to wait at His door for guidance. The result is when we find the Lord we find life and we will obtain favor of the Lord. What happens if we don’t listen? To quote the Proverb “But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.”
Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.
But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.
No matter who we are or how old we are we all have difficulty at times receiving instructions. This especially appears to be true when it comes to listening to God and following His instructions. Yet godly wisdom is pure and will always prove to be correct. When we walk in His wisdom we are pleasing to God. It has long been proven that when we listen to men we become foolish. Proverbs 12:15 explains it best, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto council is wise.”
We are urged to not only hear instruction but to listen to it. Apply it to our life and put it into practice. Wisdom then, is not knowing all the answers yourself, but hearing and implementing the wise council of God’s Word. To find genuine wisdom we must walk in the favor of the Lord. When we find wisdom we also find life.
We heard a great message this last Sunday when our pastor gave us instructions on how not to be defeated. He showed how Peter, a lowly fisherman was turned into a great preacher because he listened to what God was calling him to do. We also learned how long suffering, how forgiving, and how loving God is.
It is only when we walk in the light and love of God can we see where we need to go. We see in these verses we are blessed when we hear God’s instructions. We are also given instructions what we are to do once we hear the instruction. We are to watch daily at His gates for direction and we are to wait at His door for guidance. The result is when we find the Lord we find life and we will obtain favor of the Lord. What happens if we don’t listen? To quote the Proverb “But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.”
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