Jonah 1:1-4, “Now the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. But the LORD sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken.”
We have all heard the story of Jonah and the whale. How he got swallowed up and taken to a place God wanted him to go. He was a prophet of God. God commanded him to go and preach to the people of Ninevah. He was to proclaim God’s righteousness and retribution. Jonah showed us all what not to do and what can happen if we follow his example.
What makes people run from God? First to be clear only those who know God run from Him. Those who have never met Him and are not His are not called. To understand what makes people run we must first look at what they are running from. Could it be responsibility? God made each with specific talents and for a specific purpose. He has a plan for all of His children. We, the children of God, are responsible to God to use the talents He gave us for His honor and His glory. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33 If we are not using the talents he gave us what excuse can we give Him?
Many times people run from God because they don’t like what He is asking them to do. That is what Jonah did. “Me go to Ninevah and preach to that godless crowd? You got to be kidding.” We may never know what God has in mind if we refuse to take His call. “You just don’t understand I don’t want to preach or be a missionary.” “Ok is that what God asked you to do? If you don’t take the call how would you know what he wants you to do?”
People also run from God because of sin in their life. Psalm 139:7-9, “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.” You can never escape the presence of God. Like the man said, “He’s everywhere! He’s everywhere!” So then if God looks on the heart no matter where we go He knows what is in our heart.
If God is asking you to do something it is right or he would not be asking you to do it. If God is in it it will work if he is not it won’t? My question to end part 1 is this--- who can see the future us or God?
Part 2 will look at Why people run from God.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
How Grateful Are We
Colossians 3:17, “Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father by him.”
It is most often we remember what Jesus did for us at Easter. Paul is instructing us that we should consider all that Jesus Christ has done for us always. It is our reasonable service. How long has it been since we considered just exactly what Jesus did for us?
We all recognize the need to thank someone who had given their life to save ours. We all are thankful for those who gave their lives in battle so we can be free. Yet a simple “Thank you” does not seem enough when we look at all Jesus did for us. Let us look at just some of what Jesus did for us. He gave up the infinite wealth of heaven and became poor for us, so that we who are poor might find infinite wealth in heaven. He gave his life to pay a debt we could not pay so we could be free. In light of just these two there should be nothing He would ask of us that we would not want to do.
Whatever we say or do Paul is telling us it should be under the authority of Jesus Christ. Simple words cannot express how we are to give thanks for what Jesus has done for us. We should let our lives show how grateful we are. Show the heart-deep appreciation and measureless love that you have for your Savior in the decisions you make, the topics you talk about, and the schedule you keep. Those are tall orders that are hard for many to follow. As the old saying goes, “Many can talk the talk but can’t walk the walk.”
Have we ever really just stopped and considered what happened on the cross? Thought about the price Jesus paid for us? Do we really live the gospel, do we really believe the gospel, and do we really trust Jesus? Paul is saying by the way we live our lives shows how we feel about the savior.
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Colossians 3:15-17
How grateful are we for Christ and does it show?
It is most often we remember what Jesus did for us at Easter. Paul is instructing us that we should consider all that Jesus Christ has done for us always. It is our reasonable service. How long has it been since we considered just exactly what Jesus did for us?
We all recognize the need to thank someone who had given their life to save ours. We all are thankful for those who gave their lives in battle so we can be free. Yet a simple “Thank you” does not seem enough when we look at all Jesus did for us. Let us look at just some of what Jesus did for us. He gave up the infinite wealth of heaven and became poor for us, so that we who are poor might find infinite wealth in heaven. He gave his life to pay a debt we could not pay so we could be free. In light of just these two there should be nothing He would ask of us that we would not want to do.
Whatever we say or do Paul is telling us it should be under the authority of Jesus Christ. Simple words cannot express how we are to give thanks for what Jesus has done for us. We should let our lives show how grateful we are. Show the heart-deep appreciation and measureless love that you have for your Savior in the decisions you make, the topics you talk about, and the schedule you keep. Those are tall orders that are hard for many to follow. As the old saying goes, “Many can talk the talk but can’t walk the walk.”
Have we ever really just stopped and considered what happened on the cross? Thought about the price Jesus paid for us? Do we really live the gospel, do we really believe the gospel, and do we really trust Jesus? Paul is saying by the way we live our lives shows how we feel about the savior.
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Colossians 3:15-17
How grateful are we for Christ and does it show?
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Choose Your Words
John 14:1-3, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
Many times as we read scripture we focus on the wrong words. I read a quote from J.H. Jowett, noted British preacher that he believed inter peace comes not from tranquil circumstances but from an untroubled heart. He said, “If we were to hear one hundred people repeating the sentence, ‘Let not your hearts be troubled,’ we should find that ninety-nine of them put emphasis upon the word troubled…I feel led to believe that the purposed emphasis in on the word heart… the heart is clothed in serene regality even when hell is knocking and rioting at its very door.”
After I read that I began to think that I was expending more energy trying to avoid problems and difficulties than on letting them happen and help me get to know Christ better. With that knowledge I discovered that if I continued in that mind set of avoidance rather than acceptance I would stay frustrated and doomed to failure.
Look at what Jesus told His disciples, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” What was he telling them? He was preparing them for the darkest day in their life the day of His crucifixion. He knew they would be ok and weather the storm only by trusting in Him in spite of the apparent evil that lay before them. What dark days do we face on our own? How much better would that be if we looked to God to give us peace of mind?
Many today focus only on the trouble and forget about the heart. We must not focus on the trouble in our world. We must focus more on the victory we have in Christ Jesus because His death was followed by His resurrection. We must focus our attention on the heart not on the trouble. Once we do this His words take on new meaning. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.
If we keep our minds on Christ we will have peace of mind and rest for our soul.
Many times as we read scripture we focus on the wrong words. I read a quote from J.H. Jowett, noted British preacher that he believed inter peace comes not from tranquil circumstances but from an untroubled heart. He said, “If we were to hear one hundred people repeating the sentence, ‘Let not your hearts be troubled,’ we should find that ninety-nine of them put emphasis upon the word troubled…I feel led to believe that the purposed emphasis in on the word heart… the heart is clothed in serene regality even when hell is knocking and rioting at its very door.”
After I read that I began to think that I was expending more energy trying to avoid problems and difficulties than on letting them happen and help me get to know Christ better. With that knowledge I discovered that if I continued in that mind set of avoidance rather than acceptance I would stay frustrated and doomed to failure.
Look at what Jesus told His disciples, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” What was he telling them? He was preparing them for the darkest day in their life the day of His crucifixion. He knew they would be ok and weather the storm only by trusting in Him in spite of the apparent evil that lay before them. What dark days do we face on our own? How much better would that be if we looked to God to give us peace of mind?
Many today focus only on the trouble and forget about the heart. We must not focus on the trouble in our world. We must focus more on the victory we have in Christ Jesus because His death was followed by His resurrection. We must focus our attention on the heart not on the trouble. Once we do this His words take on new meaning. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.
If we keep our minds on Christ we will have peace of mind and rest for our soul.
Monday, October 3, 2011
God's Power and Our Prayer
James 5:13-16, “Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
Prayer is a powerful thing especially when we are praying for someone else. As we join in partnership with God by praying for others we can direct God’s power to come to the aid of another. We are all asked to pray for someone who has fallen sick, is facing a crisis or is in need. God already knows about those problems and He can accomplish the help needed without us but He has given us a great privilege of being involved with Him through our prayers.
Through our intercession for a sick child, a mother or father who is facing surgery, a neighbor or loved one who needs Christ, or a pastor who needs strength we are asking God to provide for that person what we cannot. We are asking for God to intervene for that person and are asking Him to direct His great power in a specific direction. Can we pray incorrectly not if we pray with a heart of love and unselfish desire for God to provide for another?
Remember Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17-18.
Directing God’s power, “This power is so rich and so mobile that all we have to do when we pray is point to the person or thing to which we desire to have God’ power applied, and He, the Lord of this power, will direct the necessary power to the desired place.” Ole Hallesby from his book Prayer.
This assumes, of course we are praying “according to His will” 1 John5:14. Prayer is not a magic wand we can use to satisfy our wishes or desires. It is an opportunity to work with the Lord in accomplishing His purposes. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16.
A nation that is on their knees seeking God’s leadership will prevail one that turns its back on God will suffer loss. To access the power of God we only need to humble ourselves and pray, confess our sins and He will heal our land. We can access the power of God and He will answer our prayers.
Prayer is a powerful thing especially when we are praying for someone else. As we join in partnership with God by praying for others we can direct God’s power to come to the aid of another. We are all asked to pray for someone who has fallen sick, is facing a crisis or is in need. God already knows about those problems and He can accomplish the help needed without us but He has given us a great privilege of being involved with Him through our prayers.
Through our intercession for a sick child, a mother or father who is facing surgery, a neighbor or loved one who needs Christ, or a pastor who needs strength we are asking God to provide for that person what we cannot. We are asking for God to intervene for that person and are asking Him to direct His great power in a specific direction. Can we pray incorrectly not if we pray with a heart of love and unselfish desire for God to provide for another?
Remember Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17-18.
Directing God’s power, “This power is so rich and so mobile that all we have to do when we pray is point to the person or thing to which we desire to have God’ power applied, and He, the Lord of this power, will direct the necessary power to the desired place.” Ole Hallesby from his book Prayer.
This assumes, of course we are praying “according to His will” 1 John5:14. Prayer is not a magic wand we can use to satisfy our wishes or desires. It is an opportunity to work with the Lord in accomplishing His purposes. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16.
A nation that is on their knees seeking God’s leadership will prevail one that turns its back on God will suffer loss. To access the power of God we only need to humble ourselves and pray, confess our sins and He will heal our land. We can access the power of God and He will answer our prayers.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Walking On Water
Matthew 14:28-29, “And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.”
We have all hear the story about Peter walking on the water to go to Jesus. We all know about the bad press he got as he began to sink in the rough seas as he took his eyes of Jesus. Yet this is a story as much about faith as about unbelief. Let’s look at what happened. Look close at this story, first Peter did not get out of the boat until Jesus bid him come. Some may think this is a small detail but it is critical to what was about to happen. Only God knows the number of His children who are trying to do the impossible without Him bidding them to come. If Peter had jumped out of the boat and tried to walk to meet Jesus when he first saw the Lord coming to them he would have not been successful. Peter made his living on the water and he knew walking on the sea was not something he could do. We all look to Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” With Christ at our center and through His power we can do all things. It is true God can do the impossible and can use us to do that impossible task. While it is true all things are possible with God—even what is impossible for us—we can’t expect to walk on water unless God has invited us to do so. We cannot expect to do the impossible unless the impossible is what God is calling us to do.
Notice something else about this story. Peter was the only one who got out of the boat. All the others had also been with Jesus and knew who He was why did they not also get out of the boat? Probably because none other than Peter even dreamed they could walk on the water. Peter, at that time felt he could do anything with Jesus’ help. Could the others in the boat have done what Peter did? Yes if Jesus had said to them come to me. Was it because their faith was lacking and Peter’s was great? No. Was Peter a glory hound? No again. None were called to do what Peter was asked to do. None needed the lesson Peter needed. God knew what Peter was to do and He also knew we could all learn from Peter’s lesson.
There is more to this story that many times gets overlooked. Yes Peter learned a crucial lesson by walking on the water to go to Jesus, but only he was bid to come to Jesus. Jesus did not say everyone come on out here. Why did Peter get out of the boat? To go to Jesus, not to gain note rarity, special power or special favor with Jesus. The reason he got out of the boat was to go to Jesus. There is no lesser goal. The lesson missed most often is not his failing belief it is that if we seek to overcome insurmountable problems out of any motivation other than drawing closer to Jesus will always meet with failure. Remember Jesus said, “Come unto me all ye that labor and I will give you rest.” When Christ bids us to draw near we need to get out of the boat and go to Him. Keeping our eyes on Jesus we can walk on water. Nothing can sink us, no wave can drown us but we still have to have the goal to go to Jesus.
We have all hear the story about Peter walking on the water to go to Jesus. We all know about the bad press he got as he began to sink in the rough seas as he took his eyes of Jesus. Yet this is a story as much about faith as about unbelief. Let’s look at what happened. Look close at this story, first Peter did not get out of the boat until Jesus bid him come. Some may think this is a small detail but it is critical to what was about to happen. Only God knows the number of His children who are trying to do the impossible without Him bidding them to come. If Peter had jumped out of the boat and tried to walk to meet Jesus when he first saw the Lord coming to them he would have not been successful. Peter made his living on the water and he knew walking on the sea was not something he could do. We all look to Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” With Christ at our center and through His power we can do all things. It is true God can do the impossible and can use us to do that impossible task. While it is true all things are possible with God—even what is impossible for us—we can’t expect to walk on water unless God has invited us to do so. We cannot expect to do the impossible unless the impossible is what God is calling us to do.
Notice something else about this story. Peter was the only one who got out of the boat. All the others had also been with Jesus and knew who He was why did they not also get out of the boat? Probably because none other than Peter even dreamed they could walk on the water. Peter, at that time felt he could do anything with Jesus’ help. Could the others in the boat have done what Peter did? Yes if Jesus had said to them come to me. Was it because their faith was lacking and Peter’s was great? No. Was Peter a glory hound? No again. None were called to do what Peter was asked to do. None needed the lesson Peter needed. God knew what Peter was to do and He also knew we could all learn from Peter’s lesson.
There is more to this story that many times gets overlooked. Yes Peter learned a crucial lesson by walking on the water to go to Jesus, but only he was bid to come to Jesus. Jesus did not say everyone come on out here. Why did Peter get out of the boat? To go to Jesus, not to gain note rarity, special power or special favor with Jesus. The reason he got out of the boat was to go to Jesus. There is no lesser goal. The lesson missed most often is not his failing belief it is that if we seek to overcome insurmountable problems out of any motivation other than drawing closer to Jesus will always meet with failure. Remember Jesus said, “Come unto me all ye that labor and I will give you rest.” When Christ bids us to draw near we need to get out of the boat and go to Him. Keeping our eyes on Jesus we can walk on water. Nothing can sink us, no wave can drown us but we still have to have the goal to go to Jesus.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Be All You Can Be
Colossians 3:23-25, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.”
Sometimes wisdom comes from the most unlikely places. Sometimes it may even come to us from our children. Jesus said,“ Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?” Matthew 21:16 The army has coined a phrase, “Be the best you can be.” That means to give all you have to being a soldier. That is good advice and something we should all take to heart.
In a conversation with one of my sons I began to see something that I had ignored for years. After all I was the parent and I had all the answers. Well that is what we all think, right? Reflection on the wisdom that was imparted to me I quickly saw I had missed some very important things. Then as I was seeking the Lord to give me strength and guidance I saw the verse in Colossians 3:23, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” Had I only been striving to please men and not the Lord. That was the wisdom that came from a conversation with my son.
I also found in Jeremiah 29:7, “And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.” We don’t always understand or know why we are carried into captivity either by choice of circumstance but for whatever reason there is a lesson we must learn. In Jeremiah god is telling the Nation of Israel who were captive in Babylon to “And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives”. He is telling them not to set around wishing they were somewhere else doing something else instead they were to be faithful to Him and He would take care of them. We must remember the Lord knows what we are in need of and He knows the lessons we must learn to be the Best we can be in His service.
We can’t always choose out circumstances in life. We may not be able to change many things in our lives. Our situation may be difficult and the future not as bright as we would like it to be. But we can be all we can be in the condition and situation we are in.
Israel was not at all happy about being in captivity. God had a plan that if they would be faithful He would carry them to a safe place and reward their faithfulness.
So then no matter where we are what we are involved with, “Wherever you are be all you can be.”
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.”
Sometimes wisdom comes from the most unlikely places. Sometimes it may even come to us from our children. Jesus said,“ Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?” Matthew 21:16 The army has coined a phrase, “Be the best you can be.” That means to give all you have to being a soldier. That is good advice and something we should all take to heart.
In a conversation with one of my sons I began to see something that I had ignored for years. After all I was the parent and I had all the answers. Well that is what we all think, right? Reflection on the wisdom that was imparted to me I quickly saw I had missed some very important things. Then as I was seeking the Lord to give me strength and guidance I saw the verse in Colossians 3:23, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” Had I only been striving to please men and not the Lord. That was the wisdom that came from a conversation with my son.
I also found in Jeremiah 29:7, “And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.” We don’t always understand or know why we are carried into captivity either by choice of circumstance but for whatever reason there is a lesson we must learn. In Jeremiah god is telling the Nation of Israel who were captive in Babylon to “And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives”. He is telling them not to set around wishing they were somewhere else doing something else instead they were to be faithful to Him and He would take care of them. We must remember the Lord knows what we are in need of and He knows the lessons we must learn to be the Best we can be in His service.
We can’t always choose out circumstances in life. We may not be able to change many things in our lives. Our situation may be difficult and the future not as bright as we would like it to be. But we can be all we can be in the condition and situation we are in.
Israel was not at all happy about being in captivity. God had a plan that if they would be faithful He would carry them to a safe place and reward their faithfulness.
So then no matter where we are what we are involved with, “Wherever you are be all you can be.”
Friday, September 23, 2011
God Has The Answers
Philippians 4:19 “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
As parents we always get questions from our children. Their questions matter to them and as far as they are concerned have a great impact on their lives. You know questions like, “Dad can I have ten dollars to go to the show?” “Dad can you help me with this new math?” “Dad when can I get my driver’s license?” “Dad you will never guess who is going to have a baby?” All personal questions that many times parents do not have answers for. As parents our children have question, request and needs that seem endless. It makes no difference if they are in grade school or college they are always looking to their parents for help.
As parents we most often can come up with solutions to our children’s problems and can and do provide resources in time of need. Yet there are times when we are at a loss as what to do or how to answer the request. One thing is sure though we may not have all the answers but God does. In the test verse for today we find assurance God can and will supply all our needs according to His riches. Notice it says our needs not our wants. Just as we as parents do not always supply the wants of our children neither does God. But we will always supply the needs so does God. God also knows when our requests are genuine, or when He must redirect our thinking instead. He also knows what is in our best interest and if we will but trust Him He will guide us down the right path.
Here is something to think about: When we think no one cares, Jesus says He loves us (John 15:12-13). When we think we just can’t go one step farther, Jesus says, “I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). When we run into something we just can’t figure out, God says He will guide us (Psalm 48:14). If we need to be forgiven for some wrong deed or thought, God says He will forgive us if we will confess our sin to Him, (1 John 1:9).
God is our Heavenly Father, if we have accepted His grace and believe in His son. Knowing that we have assurance God wants to provide our every need and guide us to be successful in what we do. He wants us to follow His lead, hear His voice as he speaks through His word, and trust in Him to provide not only our needs but to guide and protect us.
We may not have all the answers to the questions our children ask. If we have a close relationship with our Heavenly Father He does have all the answers. God never tires of our asking Him, talking to Him and following His guidance. So when problems arise that we can’t find a solution to we need to ask out Father—out Heavenly Father. Your are one of His kids aren’t you?
As parents we always get questions from our children. Their questions matter to them and as far as they are concerned have a great impact on their lives. You know questions like, “Dad can I have ten dollars to go to the show?” “Dad can you help me with this new math?” “Dad when can I get my driver’s license?” “Dad you will never guess who is going to have a baby?” All personal questions that many times parents do not have answers for. As parents our children have question, request and needs that seem endless. It makes no difference if they are in grade school or college they are always looking to their parents for help.
As parents we most often can come up with solutions to our children’s problems and can and do provide resources in time of need. Yet there are times when we are at a loss as what to do or how to answer the request. One thing is sure though we may not have all the answers but God does. In the test verse for today we find assurance God can and will supply all our needs according to His riches. Notice it says our needs not our wants. Just as we as parents do not always supply the wants of our children neither does God. But we will always supply the needs so does God. God also knows when our requests are genuine, or when He must redirect our thinking instead. He also knows what is in our best interest and if we will but trust Him He will guide us down the right path.
Here is something to think about: When we think no one cares, Jesus says He loves us (John 15:12-13). When we think we just can’t go one step farther, Jesus says, “I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). When we run into something we just can’t figure out, God says He will guide us (Psalm 48:14). If we need to be forgiven for some wrong deed or thought, God says He will forgive us if we will confess our sin to Him, (1 John 1:9).
God is our Heavenly Father, if we have accepted His grace and believe in His son. Knowing that we have assurance God wants to provide our every need and guide us to be successful in what we do. He wants us to follow His lead, hear His voice as he speaks through His word, and trust in Him to provide not only our needs but to guide and protect us.
We may not have all the answers to the questions our children ask. If we have a close relationship with our Heavenly Father He does have all the answers. God never tires of our asking Him, talking to Him and following His guidance. So when problems arise that we can’t find a solution to we need to ask out Father—out Heavenly Father. Your are one of His kids aren’t you?
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Where To Walk
Proverbs 4:14-18, “Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall. For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence. But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.”
It always seems to happen when we are traveling to keep an appointment. Traffic slows down and sometimes even comes to a stop. We have all been there and as we slowly progress to the cause of the slow down we see it is an accident on the other side of the road. Our slow down is due to others wanting to see what happened. Rubber-necking it is called. It is at times like this that we all wish we had been able to get a traffic report so we could avoid this area.
Solomon writing to his son is giving us instructions as he is encouraging his son to avoid situations that could have potential to entangle him in sin. His advice is to avoid the scene of wickedness altogether.
As we go through life it will be impossible to not avoid sinful environments. Be it at home at work or on vacation. Solomon’s wise counsel is to not be guilty of rubber-necking the sin around you. Avoid it, don’t go near it, and get away from it as quickly as you can.
When we walk through the supermarket past the magazine rack there we are faced with provocative poses on every cover it is hard not to look. In the office there are attractive people whose dress is more revealing than it should be. Solomon’s counsel is to pass by or avoid them altogether, turn from the temptation as quickly as possible and go your way. The same would apply to entertainment or unhealthy atmospheres that draw us into a sinful state of mind.
Will others think us strange for so conscientiously avoiding sinful distractions and potential shipwrecks to our faith? Yes, especially if they are rushing headlong toward it themselves. It is interesting that Solomon is not interested in what others think---he is concerned about you and me. Satan will use many tools to entrap us and cause us to lose our faith, to cause our testimony to be tarnished. What may seem to be innocent and of non effect could be devastating to someone who is watching. There is a term Christians hear a lot about and that is---hypocrite. Pretending to be something that you are not. Satan would love nothing better than to have you seen doing something that is unsavory and sinful. Looking at something you shouldn’t, talking improperly going where your testimony has no place.
Solomon encourages, if you are caught up in any sin or temptation, turn from it immediately and change your path. There is no shame in repentance, but there is nothing but shame in the way of sin. Romans 6:23,” For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
It always seems to happen when we are traveling to keep an appointment. Traffic slows down and sometimes even comes to a stop. We have all been there and as we slowly progress to the cause of the slow down we see it is an accident on the other side of the road. Our slow down is due to others wanting to see what happened. Rubber-necking it is called. It is at times like this that we all wish we had been able to get a traffic report so we could avoid this area.
Solomon writing to his son is giving us instructions as he is encouraging his son to avoid situations that could have potential to entangle him in sin. His advice is to avoid the scene of wickedness altogether.
As we go through life it will be impossible to not avoid sinful environments. Be it at home at work or on vacation. Solomon’s wise counsel is to not be guilty of rubber-necking the sin around you. Avoid it, don’t go near it, and get away from it as quickly as you can.
When we walk through the supermarket past the magazine rack there we are faced with provocative poses on every cover it is hard not to look. In the office there are attractive people whose dress is more revealing than it should be. Solomon’s counsel is to pass by or avoid them altogether, turn from the temptation as quickly as possible and go your way. The same would apply to entertainment or unhealthy atmospheres that draw us into a sinful state of mind.
Will others think us strange for so conscientiously avoiding sinful distractions and potential shipwrecks to our faith? Yes, especially if they are rushing headlong toward it themselves. It is interesting that Solomon is not interested in what others think---he is concerned about you and me. Satan will use many tools to entrap us and cause us to lose our faith, to cause our testimony to be tarnished. What may seem to be innocent and of non effect could be devastating to someone who is watching. There is a term Christians hear a lot about and that is---hypocrite. Pretending to be something that you are not. Satan would love nothing better than to have you seen doing something that is unsavory and sinful. Looking at something you shouldn’t, talking improperly going where your testimony has no place.
Solomon encourages, if you are caught up in any sin or temptation, turn from it immediately and change your path. There is no shame in repentance, but there is nothing but shame in the way of sin. Romans 6:23,” For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Change
1 Corinthians 15:51-52, “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
Change is such a harsh word. It is something we all resist. Yet it is something that is vital to our very existence. Without change we would all be without hope or growth.
In nature things change and we call them seasons. In the spring what looks to be dead comes to life and turns from gray to green. Then in the fall as the weather cools and days are shortened the green changes to a palette of color. In our lives we also experience change. We watch as our children change before our eyes as they grow from infant to toddler to teen to adult. We too change as years pass and hair turns from brown to gray, eyes dim from the strain of trials past.
Yes there is nothing more constant than change. When we accept Christ as savior a greater change takes place. We go from being dead in sin to life with the Heavenly Father. We are born into the family of God and old things are done away with and all things are made new. We are a new creature and a child of God. We see with new eyes and sing a new song. There is a newness of life, things have a brighter glow. We go where we have not gone before and we do things that were once alien to us. This change has given us a new friend. One who will never leave us nor forsake us and one we can trust with our most precious possession---our heart and life.
Yes change is coming and changed we will all be. As in nature change must take place. Dead branches must be cut off so new fruit can grow. The best grapes grow from new branches not from old wood. If old dead woos is not removed, if aging and sick limbs are not cast off the whole tree is in danger of dying. While change may be painful at first if done so new life can grow then the pain is of none effect. If change is not allowed and old wood remain the whole vine will wither and new fruit will not grow.
Maybe there are branches that need to be cast off. Maybe there are changes that need to be made. Just maybe God needs to prune the tree so new fruit can grow. After all He is the master husbandman and He knows where the problem branches are and just how to make the needed changes.
Change is needed for growth. Without change there is no growth. Without growth we may as well be dead.
Change is such a harsh word. It is something we all resist. Yet it is something that is vital to our very existence. Without change we would all be without hope or growth.
In nature things change and we call them seasons. In the spring what looks to be dead comes to life and turns from gray to green. Then in the fall as the weather cools and days are shortened the green changes to a palette of color. In our lives we also experience change. We watch as our children change before our eyes as they grow from infant to toddler to teen to adult. We too change as years pass and hair turns from brown to gray, eyes dim from the strain of trials past.
Yes there is nothing more constant than change. When we accept Christ as savior a greater change takes place. We go from being dead in sin to life with the Heavenly Father. We are born into the family of God and old things are done away with and all things are made new. We are a new creature and a child of God. We see with new eyes and sing a new song. There is a newness of life, things have a brighter glow. We go where we have not gone before and we do things that were once alien to us. This change has given us a new friend. One who will never leave us nor forsake us and one we can trust with our most precious possession---our heart and life.
Yes change is coming and changed we will all be. As in nature change must take place. Dead branches must be cut off so new fruit can grow. The best grapes grow from new branches not from old wood. If old dead woos is not removed, if aging and sick limbs are not cast off the whole tree is in danger of dying. While change may be painful at first if done so new life can grow then the pain is of none effect. If change is not allowed and old wood remain the whole vine will wither and new fruit will not grow.
Maybe there are branches that need to be cast off. Maybe there are changes that need to be made. Just maybe God needs to prune the tree so new fruit can grow. After all He is the master husbandman and He knows where the problem branches are and just how to make the needed changes.
Change is needed for growth. Without change there is no growth. Without growth we may as well be dead.
Friday, September 16, 2011
God's Word
Matthew 24: 35, “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”
The Word comes from Jesus the appointed messenger of God. It is true, it is
weighty, and has salvation power. Therefore it must have a place among those who hear it. Deep within each of us is a place where we put things of great value. Our most cherished memories, our most compelling thoughts, our conscience, a place we call our heart. The Bible says, “Thy Word have I hid in my heart.” (Psalms 119:11) This is the first and only place Jesus will look for His Word.
In this special place of ours shall be a place of honor. Does God’s Word have a place of honor or is it collecting dust in some dark corner? A place we are ashamed for any one to see. It should receive our utmost attention, our greatest reverence, polished with our faith and secured by our obedience. John 8:47, “He that is of God hearth God’s Word, ye therefore hear them not because ye are not of God.”
God’s word should have a place where our most trusted possessions rest. We trust the tires on our cars to carry us safely at 70 mph through all weather conditions. Yet God’s Word we cannot trust. Why?
Yes men rejected the words Jesus spoke 2000 years ago, they still reject His words today.
Let us look for a moment why God’s Word has no place in our hearts, in our lives, in our world.
To those who have never accepted the words of Jesus those lost in sin here are some reasons you may be ashamed to admit. You are too busy to get involved with God or anything religious. There is just no opening in your schedule. Besides you have an appearance to uphold a reputation to keep.
You know when Jesus was born no one had time for him. He had to come into this world through the barn. The world was more concerned with paying taxes than God.
You are so preoccupied you simply don’t have time to get saved. There will come a day when you will wish you had made time.
Jesus does not come wrapped as a novelty, a new style or high-tech gadget. Therefore you reject Him and His love. You have heard about Jesus all your life and you are tired of hearing about him. May I ask you are you tired of eating, breathing, and living? No of course not those are silly questions.
In each heart we have places we put things. Does the place designed for God have something else resting there?
I’d be willing to bet you prefer superstition to God. How about a religious rite? Maybe you prefer skepticism of this world to the fact of the Gospel.
Let me ask are these choices intelligent people make?
Maybe you think Jesus and His Word are too holy, too spiritual for someone of your status? Does that mean you are too good for God? Do these statements startle you? They should for they condemn you. Many think only a selected few need to be holy and spiritual. I want to let you in on a secret. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Every preacher on this planet from the Pope in Rome to the preacher in the smallest country church in Appalachia is a sinner, some bigger than others. Every one religion call a saint has sinned and come short in God’s eyes. Now I’ll bet you are mad and offended. You may even turn off your mind. Yet this is the attitude of many today.
You say you find no comfort in the Word so you give it no place in your life. It’s not God’s Word that is cold it is the place you store it.
You may think you are too wise, too cultured to yield to the government of Jesus. If you do my friend you are in trouble. Culture won’t save you! Wisdom (though precious) is vain in eternity. How about your position in the church that should count for something? Church membership will not save you. Some of the most loyal, hardcore, religious church members killed Jesus.
Where have you put His Word?
The Word comes from Jesus the appointed messenger of God. It is true, it is
weighty, and has salvation power. Therefore it must have a place among those who hear it. Deep within each of us is a place where we put things of great value. Our most cherished memories, our most compelling thoughts, our conscience, a place we call our heart. The Bible says, “Thy Word have I hid in my heart.” (Psalms 119:11) This is the first and only place Jesus will look for His Word.
In this special place of ours shall be a place of honor. Does God’s Word have a place of honor or is it collecting dust in some dark corner? A place we are ashamed for any one to see. It should receive our utmost attention, our greatest reverence, polished with our faith and secured by our obedience. John 8:47, “He that is of God hearth God’s Word, ye therefore hear them not because ye are not of God.”
God’s word should have a place where our most trusted possessions rest. We trust the tires on our cars to carry us safely at 70 mph through all weather conditions. Yet God’s Word we cannot trust. Why?
Yes men rejected the words Jesus spoke 2000 years ago, they still reject His words today.
Let us look for a moment why God’s Word has no place in our hearts, in our lives, in our world.
To those who have never accepted the words of Jesus those lost in sin here are some reasons you may be ashamed to admit. You are too busy to get involved with God or anything religious. There is just no opening in your schedule. Besides you have an appearance to uphold a reputation to keep.
You know when Jesus was born no one had time for him. He had to come into this world through the barn. The world was more concerned with paying taxes than God.
You are so preoccupied you simply don’t have time to get saved. There will come a day when you will wish you had made time.
Jesus does not come wrapped as a novelty, a new style or high-tech gadget. Therefore you reject Him and His love. You have heard about Jesus all your life and you are tired of hearing about him. May I ask you are you tired of eating, breathing, and living? No of course not those are silly questions.
In each heart we have places we put things. Does the place designed for God have something else resting there?
I’d be willing to bet you prefer superstition to God. How about a religious rite? Maybe you prefer skepticism of this world to the fact of the Gospel.
Let me ask are these choices intelligent people make?
Maybe you think Jesus and His Word are too holy, too spiritual for someone of your status? Does that mean you are too good for God? Do these statements startle you? They should for they condemn you. Many think only a selected few need to be holy and spiritual. I want to let you in on a secret. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Every preacher on this planet from the Pope in Rome to the preacher in the smallest country church in Appalachia is a sinner, some bigger than others. Every one religion call a saint has sinned and come short in God’s eyes. Now I’ll bet you are mad and offended. You may even turn off your mind. Yet this is the attitude of many today.
You say you find no comfort in the Word so you give it no place in your life. It’s not God’s Word that is cold it is the place you store it.
You may think you are too wise, too cultured to yield to the government of Jesus. If you do my friend you are in trouble. Culture won’t save you! Wisdom (though precious) is vain in eternity. How about your position in the church that should count for something? Church membership will not save you. Some of the most loyal, hardcore, religious church members killed Jesus.
Where have you put His Word?
Thursday, September 15, 2011
The First Step Is The Hardest
Deuteronomy 2:31, “And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have begun to give Sihon and his land before thee: begin to possess, that thou mayest inherit his land.”
In every life there will come difficult circumstances and task that we all have to deal with. At first glance many may appear overwhelming and daunting. Our first impression is to put off dealing with what lies before us, hoping God will miraculously take of it. After forty years in the wilderness Israel was now faced with a crisis. The Promised Land lay before them. They saw a might king and his army who did not appear too happy or wanting to give their home over to Israel. Moses had to remind the people that God would provide a way all they had to do was to “begin to posses the land”. After Moses died and the Nation of Israel stood on the banks of the Jordan River God told Joshua to have the priest to step into a flooded river and He would provide a safe passage. Again nothing was going to happen until the first foot of the priest stepped off dry ground and into the raging river.
The hardest step any believer ever has had to make was to step into an aisle at alter call and to accept the gift of salvation. That first step in very difficult, with white knuckles we all gripped the pew and it would appear as if the only way to get to the front was to be dragged; taking a deep breath as the first food stepped into the aisle the rest was easy. Why? The first step was ours the rest were God’s.
In Deuteronomy 2:24 we see that all Israel had to do to get rid of king Sihon was to begin to possess the land and engage him in battle. Could God have taken care of getting rid of all that stood in Israel’s way from taking possession of the land He was giving to them? Sure He could, but He commanded His people to take the first step.
The same is often true with us. We are faced with difficult situations and relationships that appear to be a road block to blessing God has for us. These difficult situations and relationships seem to defy solution. Maybe we feel there is just no way to get around or over what is blocking us. But the Lord says, “Take the first step begin to possess the land.” In damaged relationships we might have to make the first move--- speak a kind word, ask for forgiveness, pay a debt we owe. The first step could be ours to make. To receive the gift of eternal security we have to take that first step toward the cross. When we do step out asking for God to forgive us He begins to work miracles in our lives. Joy not only lies in attaining a goal but also in walking with our loving savior who says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Take the first step and leave the rest up to the Lord. Nothing can be accomplished until we take that first step.
In every life there will come difficult circumstances and task that we all have to deal with. At first glance many may appear overwhelming and daunting. Our first impression is to put off dealing with what lies before us, hoping God will miraculously take of it. After forty years in the wilderness Israel was now faced with a crisis. The Promised Land lay before them. They saw a might king and his army who did not appear too happy or wanting to give their home over to Israel. Moses had to remind the people that God would provide a way all they had to do was to “begin to posses the land”. After Moses died and the Nation of Israel stood on the banks of the Jordan River God told Joshua to have the priest to step into a flooded river and He would provide a safe passage. Again nothing was going to happen until the first foot of the priest stepped off dry ground and into the raging river.
The hardest step any believer ever has had to make was to step into an aisle at alter call and to accept the gift of salvation. That first step in very difficult, with white knuckles we all gripped the pew and it would appear as if the only way to get to the front was to be dragged; taking a deep breath as the first food stepped into the aisle the rest was easy. Why? The first step was ours the rest were God’s.
In Deuteronomy 2:24 we see that all Israel had to do to get rid of king Sihon was to begin to possess the land and engage him in battle. Could God have taken care of getting rid of all that stood in Israel’s way from taking possession of the land He was giving to them? Sure He could, but He commanded His people to take the first step.
The same is often true with us. We are faced with difficult situations and relationships that appear to be a road block to blessing God has for us. These difficult situations and relationships seem to defy solution. Maybe we feel there is just no way to get around or over what is blocking us. But the Lord says, “Take the first step begin to possess the land.” In damaged relationships we might have to make the first move--- speak a kind word, ask for forgiveness, pay a debt we owe. The first step could be ours to make. To receive the gift of eternal security we have to take that first step toward the cross. When we do step out asking for God to forgive us He begins to work miracles in our lives. Joy not only lies in attaining a goal but also in walking with our loving savior who says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Take the first step and leave the rest up to the Lord. Nothing can be accomplished until we take that first step.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Forgiven
Matthew 6:12, “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”
What does it mean to be forgiven? Does it mean we just forget a wrong or hurt? If that be true why then do we hold so tightly to something that causes us pain?
Some 2000 years ago Jesus hung on a cruel cross. Pain racked his earthly body. Blood dripped from his brow pierced by a thorny crown. His hands screamed from nails driven to inflect more pain. Yet He spoke these words, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” Could we do as He? We should! As the weight of the sins of the whole world then and now was piled upon Him and as God turned his back on His only son there was forgiveness in His heart. As Jesus was paying a debt no one but He could pay to set mankind free there was forgiveness in His eyes.
Satan would have us to believe that is not true. He questions, “How could a loving righteous God do that to his son and forgive the vilest of sinners?” Not only could He but that is exactly what He did. Your sin and mine was nailed to that cross. Jesus paid a debt we could not pay. He made it possible for us to regain fellowship with our Heavenly Father.
So then if God could and did forgive us our sin should we not be willing to forgive those who hurt, wrong or damage us? I would think a YES would be in order. Does that depend on some religious rite or ritual? NO! Only on Jesus should we trust and believe. If God forgave us completely and cast our sin as far as the east is from the west should we not follow His guide? Should we not forgive as we have been forgiven?
Forgiveness is a subject of volumes of books, many a sermon, and topics of religious discussions, yet it appears to only be just a subject. Many christians today do not know how to forgive or if they do chose not to. Forgiveness is a state of mind and spirit. It is a peace that passeth all understanding in the soul and allows fellowship with God.
The Apostle Paul spoke many times about how, why, and the need for Christians to have a forgiving spirit. Christians are to be Christ like and let the light of Christ shine through their lives. The fruits of unforgiveness are bitterness, anxiety, depression and bad health, followed close by confusion and loss of fellowship with our Heavenly Father.
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” 1 John 1:7-10
We are to forgive as unconditionally as God forgave us. Because he forgave us we are to forgive others.
What does it mean to be forgiven? Does it mean we just forget a wrong or hurt? If that be true why then do we hold so tightly to something that causes us pain?
Some 2000 years ago Jesus hung on a cruel cross. Pain racked his earthly body. Blood dripped from his brow pierced by a thorny crown. His hands screamed from nails driven to inflect more pain. Yet He spoke these words, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” Could we do as He? We should! As the weight of the sins of the whole world then and now was piled upon Him and as God turned his back on His only son there was forgiveness in His heart. As Jesus was paying a debt no one but He could pay to set mankind free there was forgiveness in His eyes.
Satan would have us to believe that is not true. He questions, “How could a loving righteous God do that to his son and forgive the vilest of sinners?” Not only could He but that is exactly what He did. Your sin and mine was nailed to that cross. Jesus paid a debt we could not pay. He made it possible for us to regain fellowship with our Heavenly Father.
So then if God could and did forgive us our sin should we not be willing to forgive those who hurt, wrong or damage us? I would think a YES would be in order. Does that depend on some religious rite or ritual? NO! Only on Jesus should we trust and believe. If God forgave us completely and cast our sin as far as the east is from the west should we not follow His guide? Should we not forgive as we have been forgiven?
Forgiveness is a subject of volumes of books, many a sermon, and topics of religious discussions, yet it appears to only be just a subject. Many christians today do not know how to forgive or if they do chose not to. Forgiveness is a state of mind and spirit. It is a peace that passeth all understanding in the soul and allows fellowship with God.
The Apostle Paul spoke many times about how, why, and the need for Christians to have a forgiving spirit. Christians are to be Christ like and let the light of Christ shine through their lives. The fruits of unforgiveness are bitterness, anxiety, depression and bad health, followed close by confusion and loss of fellowship with our Heavenly Father.
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” 1 John 1:7-10
We are to forgive as unconditionally as God forgave us. Because he forgave us we are to forgive others.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
In Too Big A Hurry
Isaiah 30:15, “For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.”
In our world today everything is fast paced. We all expect instant results, instant response and instant gratification. If it is slow we reject its value. We all live by the clock. We have to get to somewhere, do something and all must be done right now. There never seems to be enough time to just stop and take a deep breath.
I read a story about a pastor who for twenty five years served the Lord in the same church. As he was retiring friends and colleagues gathered to congratulate and to extol his many virtues. Of the many eloquent speeches made there was but one the aged pastor treasured most. It did not come from a fellow pastor it came from a layman. He said, “I have observed my pastor for the past twenty five years and I have never seen him in a hurry.”
The old pastor acknowledged that for years he had asked God to teach him how to renew his strength through “quietness and confidence”, as he read in Isaiah 30:15. In this verse Isaiah was calling rebellious Israel to return to God and rely on Him to find new strength. The pastor, however, saw in that verse a principle applicable to his own life.
People are all made different. Some are quite, some are high-strung, but no matter their temperament each can renew their strength when they spend some quite time with the Lord.
We all set alarms so we can get up and get ready to meet the day. We all have schedules to keep and things that must be done. What would happen if we set the alarm to schedule an appointment with God before we rush off to meet that day? We rush from task to task and often feel frustrated because we first did not spend some quite time with the Lord. Though we may be too busy for God , God is never too busy for us. Let us learn the principle set forth is Isaiah 30:15. In quietness and confidence before God we find the real source of strength to stay calm.
I will close with this bit of wisdom. Never take on more work than you have time to pray about.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Faceing Your Enemies
Psalm 27:1-3, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.”
Sometimes it is hard to stand when all around you is in chaos. When those who oppose you all appear to have the upper hand, it is hard to hold onto positive thought. In combat everyone on both sides are scared. Bullets have no political preference and do not discriminate. Even in the worst fire fight you must stand and face your enemy. In life we all have to face an enemy of some kind. 1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” Satan is our worst enemy but with the Word of God we can stand against him and prevail.
During the civil war near the town of Moorefield, West Virginia a fierce battle raged. The town was between the two opposing armies and control of the town changed hands almost every day. In testimony from a Presbyterian minister a elderly woman lived in the middle of the town and in the middle of the battle. One morning enemy soldiers knocked on her door and demanded breakfast. She invited them in and asks that all to be seated while she prepared breakfast. When all was prepared and ready to be served she made a statement, “I am accustomed to reading my bible and saying a prayer before every meal, would you object if I do so now?” None objected and she took down her bible and randomly opened it. Her eyes fell on Psalm 27 and she began to read. “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” She read aloud though the last verse, “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”
When she finished reading she closed her bible and said, “Let us pray.” While she was praying she begins to hear movement all around the room. When she finished praying and said “amen” she opened her eyes and found she was alone in the room. All the soldiers were gone.
When faced with the enemy, turn to the word of God and trust in His strength.
When you know the Lord is near, face the enemy without fear; though an army surrounds you, you are safe; god’s arms are around you. ----Hess
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Prayer or Work
2 Kings 20:1-2, “In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.”
James 2:17 “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” When we pray many times we expect God to do all the work.
Hezekiah prayed to God about his illness and pending death. God told him to do something. Had he not done what he was told he was going to die. By following God’s direction and doing something he lived for another fifteen years.
Two children were walking to school one day and as many children do they paid little attention to the time. As they walked one realized they were going to be late if they did not hurry. “We have got to run or we are going to be late,” he told his friend. “Let us stop and pray that we will not be late “, was the reply. “No let us pray while we run as fast as we can so we won’t be late,” as he started to run to school.
I heard a story about an athlete running in a track meet. As he crossed the finish line just ahead of his closest rival he was observed to have been talking as he ran. His coach congratulating him on his victory asks him who he was talking to during the race. “I was praying while I was running,” came the reply. “I told the Lord if you will pick my feet up I will put them down.” He asked for God’s help but he also did what he could to answer his own prayer.
When we ask God for help we must be willing to do whatever we can, using whatever means He may provide. Hezekiah heard he was going to die he asks God for a miracle, and God promised to give him fifteen more years. Place a lump of figs on the troubled boil he was told. God did the healing using human effort and natural means.
How often do we pray seeking God’s help then set back and wait for Him to do all the work. James 2:17 “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” When we ask the Lord to do something, we must also be ready to do our part. God will answer our prayer. He will send instructions for us to do something. Then we must act on those instructions with faith God will do what He said He would do.
Pray as if everything depends on God: work as if everything depends on us.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Count Your Blessings
Psalm 103:1-5, “Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.”
How often do we take God’s blessings for granted? What would we do if in the morning the sun did not rise and night remained all day long? Would this get our attention? I am sure it would. We don’t give it a second thought that at a certain time the sun will rise and daylight will wash away the night darkness.
Do we not simply take it for granted that it will get light and we can go about our daily rounds? What about the blessing of just being able to get out of bed and check to see if the sun is rising? What other blessings do we take for granted? We complain we have to mow the grass twice a week to keep our yards neat and trim. What if there was no grass to mow? We go the fridge and dig out goodies when we are hungry, but what if the electricity went off and all in the fridge ruined and we had nothing to eat and no way to cook ? What if the water we had to drink was filled with bugs and dirt, what then? Or living in a free land even with these petty problems we all complain about, what about that? We complain about too much rain or not enough rain, it’s too hot or too cold, what if there was no rain at all?
The psalmist knew he couldn’t possibly remember all of God’s benefits to him. He was distressed that he might forget them all, so he took his sluggish soul in hand, shook it, and urged it to consider at least some of the good gifts God gave to him.
Because God’s goodness is as constant as the sun, we are in danger of forgetting what He showers on us each day. Have you ever thought that God creates a perfect day brand new and different that is not like any other past or to come? He creates each new day perfect. If we will stop and just look at the new day with eyes of thanksgiving we can see how truly great God is. If we count our blessings one by one, we’ll never get finished. But if we jot down a list of ten or twenty gifts God gives us each day, something will happen to our hearts. We are real busy each day and simply don’t have time to think about how good God is to us and what He gives us each day. Can you take ten minutes and write down ten things God has given you this day? That would be one a minute; can we be still with God thanking Him for that long?
“Every morning as we rise, God’s new mercies greet out eyes; and when twilight shadows fall, evenings blessings brighten all.” ---anonymous
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
The Wish List
Matthew 6:6-8, “But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.”
C.S Lewis talks about a book he loved to read as a child. The book was called “ Five Children and It.” The book tells about a family of children who during a summer vacation find an ancient sand fairy who grants wishes. The fairy would grant each child a wish every day. With each wish more trouble and problems would follow the children. The problem was the children could not see the results of getting everything they ask for.
In Philippians 4:6 we are told to make our request known to God. But prayer is much more than telling God what we want Him to do for us. Jesus taught His disciples how to pray. He began by telling them, “Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. (Mathew 6:8)
The Lord’s instruction about how to pray is more about living in a growing, trusting relationship with our Heavenly Father than about getting what we want from Him. Have you ever noticed most of our prayers are nothing more than a wish list of the things we want? As we grow in faith, our prayers will become less about making a wish list and more about having a conversation with the Lord. Would we be happy is we got everything we asked for? Toward the end of his life, C. S Lewis wrote, “If God had granted all the silly prayers I’ve made in my life, where should I be now?”
Just as our children ask us for things we know they only want and do not really need so then does our Heavenly Father know our hearts. Jesus made it real clear when He said, “But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.”
God really likes to just have a talk with us, an intimate and personal conversation. He already knows what we really need so maybe we need to shorten our wish list and only include the things that really matter. Share with the Lord the desires of our heart and not our heads. Do you start and end you day with a prayer or do you only talk to God only when you are in trouble. Do you thank Him for His goodness and for the wonders all around? Do you do all the talking or do you listen to hear the answer? Many years ago I heard a Sunday school teacher tell her class “when your mouth is open your ears are closed. If you are talking Jesus can’t talk to you.” Sound advice don’t you think?
Our highest privilege is to talk to God; out highest duty is to listen to Him.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Prayer And The Answer
Matthew 7:7-8
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Ask. Seek. Knock. Each word has a specific action attached to it. Prayer is not just something that happens during a church service. It is a vigorous experience in participation in God’s plan. Each also speaks of something else—neediness. One does not ask, if there is no need. If we have already found we will not seek. No one knocks on an open door. Prayer then is our recognition we need God.
In Jesus Sermon on the Mount He shows us exactly how we are to talk to God, our heavenly Father. I wonder how many times we have not received, have not found or are still standing at the door with bloody knuckles with doubt growing in our minds. Why hasn’t God answered? Why won’t He just unlock the door and let us in? Why won’t He just pour out blessings on us?
The reason may be because we have not prayed as we should due to being spiritually lazy and not wanting to labor in prayer. Or maybe we are too content and feel we don’t need God. Or maybe there is a greater lesson we must learn to be better prepared for the great blessing He is planning. Regardless, there is good news from Heaven. When we awaken from a desperate condition and turn to God we have a promise from our Heavenly Father. Everyone who asks receives. Do not give up! God always give to everyone who asks---He gave us His word and He never goes back on His word. God will either give us what we are begging for or He will give us something better. Either way when we come away from the throne room we will not be disappointed.
God knows what is in our best interest and He can see better than we what we need.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Hearing God's Voice
Revelations 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”
I was watching a documentary about Antarctic that was talking about an island where king penguins lived. Thousands of them live on a beach to lay eggs and raise their young. The male and female take turns caring for the egg and the young chicks. Each one will go out into the bay to search for food and bring it back to the other parent and the young. Since all the penguins look alike and there are thousands of them on the beach how do the ones gathering food know where to go to find their mate and family? By the voice of the other parent, each has a very distinct voice the other recognizes.
What does God’s voice sound like? Would you know it if you heard it? We have all heard sermons about the still small voice, about how God speaks to those He is directing, but how can we know it is God’s voice we hear? John 10:4, “And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.” Just like a child knows the voice of a mother or father if we are God’s children we know His voice when we hear it. That is not to say we do not hear or recognize the voice of others. We do know a voice belongs to one we know. If we do not hear God’s voice do we know Him and do we recognize Him? A stranger the sheep will not follow the bible says.
If it is not texted, printed or shouted we just don’t think to listen. If we do not recognize the number that comes up in the caller ID we simply don’t answer the call. Is God in your address book? Many times God has to overcome all the noise in our life to just get a word in edgewise. What does He have to do to get us to listen? He will do it the hard way or the easy way and that depends on us. What will it take for God to get your attention?
Jesus is a stranger to many today. As a stranger He is standing outside knocking but His voice is not recognized and as a result the door is not opened. The world is filled with those who are unaware of God’s calling to repentance. One day all will hear His voice and many will not like what they hear. When Jesus comes in the clouds to call His children home will you hear His call? You won’t if He is a stranger to you. If you miss that call there will be no message left to call back, no caller ID with a callback number you phone will be disconnected and out of service. If you miss that call don’t blame God he has been trying to reach you, He has been calling but you were too busy to answer. When you stand face to face with God at the final judgment what reason will you give for missing His call?
One way not to miss the call is to have your name written in God’s contact list. How do you do that? Trust Jesus as savior. Ask Jesus to come into your heart. Romans 5:8, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 10:9-10, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
I was watching a documentary about Antarctic that was talking about an island where king penguins lived. Thousands of them live on a beach to lay eggs and raise their young. The male and female take turns caring for the egg and the young chicks. Each one will go out into the bay to search for food and bring it back to the other parent and the young. Since all the penguins look alike and there are thousands of them on the beach how do the ones gathering food know where to go to find their mate and family? By the voice of the other parent, each has a very distinct voice the other recognizes.
What does God’s voice sound like? Would you know it if you heard it? We have all heard sermons about the still small voice, about how God speaks to those He is directing, but how can we know it is God’s voice we hear? John 10:4, “And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.” Just like a child knows the voice of a mother or father if we are God’s children we know His voice when we hear it. That is not to say we do not hear or recognize the voice of others. We do know a voice belongs to one we know. If we do not hear God’s voice do we know Him and do we recognize Him? A stranger the sheep will not follow the bible says.
If it is not texted, printed or shouted we just don’t think to listen. If we do not recognize the number that comes up in the caller ID we simply don’t answer the call. Is God in your address book? Many times God has to overcome all the noise in our life to just get a word in edgewise. What does He have to do to get us to listen? He will do it the hard way or the easy way and that depends on us. What will it take for God to get your attention?
Jesus is a stranger to many today. As a stranger He is standing outside knocking but His voice is not recognized and as a result the door is not opened. The world is filled with those who are unaware of God’s calling to repentance. One day all will hear His voice and many will not like what they hear. When Jesus comes in the clouds to call His children home will you hear His call? You won’t if He is a stranger to you. If you miss that call there will be no message left to call back, no caller ID with a callback number you phone will be disconnected and out of service. If you miss that call don’t blame God he has been trying to reach you, He has been calling but you were too busy to answer. When you stand face to face with God at the final judgment what reason will you give for missing His call?
One way not to miss the call is to have your name written in God’s contact list. How do you do that? Trust Jesus as savior. Ask Jesus to come into your heart. Romans 5:8, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 10:9-10, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
Saturday, July 30, 2011
What the Future Holds
Revelations 21:7-8, “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”
In 2007 Gallup conducted a poll asking what Americans believed most about God and Heaven or the devil and Hell. The results were amazing. Most Americans, 77 percent, believed in God and Heaven and rated their chances of going to heaven as real good to excellent. Few saw themselves as hell bound.
It is most important not what Americans think will happen it is what Jesus said will happen at the judgment. Most people are afraid of the Book of Revelations because they do not want to think about or face the fact there is a judgment and Jesus will be the judge. It is impossible to think biblically about heaven and Jesus without coming face to face with the fact that those who only think about him and only know about him will not go to heaven. You must know Jesus, be washed in the blood and have your name written in the Lambs Book of Life. You must be someone He knows!
In the book of Revelations Jesus is once again warning, as he did during His earthly ministry about the coming judgment and that hell is a real option for those who reject Him. From His throne in heaven Jesus declares for the wicked, and for the unbelieving, and for those who fear men rather than God---the end is an everlasting death, the lake of fire. Hell was created for the devil and his angels not for man but man will be sent there if he rejects the love and forgiveness God is offering. If God created something so awful that the devil and his band of angels will suffer there you would think man would not try to get there. The truth is many will go there and just look who are numbered in verse 8. No you don’t have to believe it and no you will not be forced to accept Jesus but what will happen if you don’t? Better still what will happen when you do accept Jesus? Heaven will be your new home with streets of gold and a mansion in which to dwell. You will be in the family of God.
While there is complete forgiveness and unconditional love in Jesus Christ, there is also everlasting judgment for those he describes in Revelations 21:8. Being good won’t get you into heaven, church membership won’t, being important in the community has no value for heaven entrance, education is meaningless at heaven’s gate, what then does it take to go there; asking Jesus to forgive you to come into your heart, accepting that He is the Son of God and paid your sin debt on the cross. That is all it takes to get to go to heaven. Without that you will hear these words, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels”. Trust and obey and you will hear, “well done thou good and faithful servant.” Which words do you want to hear?
In 2007 Gallup conducted a poll asking what Americans believed most about God and Heaven or the devil and Hell. The results were amazing. Most Americans, 77 percent, believed in God and Heaven and rated their chances of going to heaven as real good to excellent. Few saw themselves as hell bound.
It is most important not what Americans think will happen it is what Jesus said will happen at the judgment. Most people are afraid of the Book of Revelations because they do not want to think about or face the fact there is a judgment and Jesus will be the judge. It is impossible to think biblically about heaven and Jesus without coming face to face with the fact that those who only think about him and only know about him will not go to heaven. You must know Jesus, be washed in the blood and have your name written in the Lambs Book of Life. You must be someone He knows!
In the book of Revelations Jesus is once again warning, as he did during His earthly ministry about the coming judgment and that hell is a real option for those who reject Him. From His throne in heaven Jesus declares for the wicked, and for the unbelieving, and for those who fear men rather than God---the end is an everlasting death, the lake of fire. Hell was created for the devil and his angels not for man but man will be sent there if he rejects the love and forgiveness God is offering. If God created something so awful that the devil and his band of angels will suffer there you would think man would not try to get there. The truth is many will go there and just look who are numbered in verse 8. No you don’t have to believe it and no you will not be forced to accept Jesus but what will happen if you don’t? Better still what will happen when you do accept Jesus? Heaven will be your new home with streets of gold and a mansion in which to dwell. You will be in the family of God.
While there is complete forgiveness and unconditional love in Jesus Christ, there is also everlasting judgment for those he describes in Revelations 21:8. Being good won’t get you into heaven, church membership won’t, being important in the community has no value for heaven entrance, education is meaningless at heaven’s gate, what then does it take to go there; asking Jesus to forgive you to come into your heart, accepting that He is the Son of God and paid your sin debt on the cross. That is all it takes to get to go to heaven. Without that you will hear these words, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels”. Trust and obey and you will hear, “well done thou good and faithful servant.” Which words do you want to hear?
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