"When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, the son of man that You visit him?"
Psalm 8:3&4 NKJV
I have learned one great thing in all my years of being a Christian: You cannot put God in a box. He does not fit into the limited view that a human mind can conjure. Our God is the God of everything. He created the universe, the stars, the planets, and everything contained within them. This he did by only the words he spoke. What an amazing God we have. With that in mind, let's think outside of our own little God boxes for a moment.
Consider this: The universe is full of life. When God creates something, it is always endowed with life. This is true of everything that we know about the universe. First, think of the immensity of the universe. We live on one planet within one solar system, with one star to light and warm us. Within our own galaxy, the Milky Way, there are billions of stars and billions of solar systems, meaning there are countless planets. In the universe, there are billions of galaxies. The universe is immense, and God created it all. Everything in the universe has life. The stars generate heat and light all the time. They are alive with just the right mix of elements to create a life cycle that lasts thousands or even millions of years. The planets have life of their own. Many planets have heat and water sources in their cores. These give life to the planets, creating water, ice, brilliant landscapes, and self-perpetuating energy. Even planets in our own solar systems that were once thought to be simply dead rocks, have been observed to have winds, seismic and volcanic activity, and dramatic weather patterns. Although this does not seem like the kind of life we think of, it is still life. It is continual energy in motion, the very foundations of life.
Now consider this: The God who created this nearly infinite universe, thinks about you all the time. Incredible, isn't it? Scientists and others argue that the universe surely has other planets like ours with civilizations as we have. Yet, if we think outside the God box, we can see that he may have created this entire universe for our pleasure and well-being. And he may have created other universes as well. There is no end to an infinite God. There is nothing that the human mind can conceive that even approaches the possibilities of what God has done and will do.
When I think about these things, I have to say as David did, that they are too lofty for me to understand. But there is an amazing peace to know that this incredible, all-powerful God is in love with me, so much so, that he thinks about me...often. He is indeed, the God of the universe, but he is also the God of my heart. So big, yet so personal. This is our God and he does not fit into any box!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
God-Shaped Hole
"There's a God-shaped hole in all of us, and the restless soul is searching. There's a God-shaped hole in all of us, and it's a void only He can fill."
God-Shaped Hole
Performed by Plumb
Written by Wayne Kirkpatrick, Lee Kirkpatrick, and Tiffany Arbuckle
Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
I woke up this morning, thinking about this song. Although I haven't heard it in quite a long time, it was as clear and fresh in my mind as ever. I am learning to pay attention when this happens. I believe it is the Holy Spirit giving me thoughts to lead and change me.
I am struck by the absolute truth of this song. There truly is a God-shaped hole in all of us.This is true of all people. It doesn't matter if the person is an atheist, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Mormon, or any other religion you can think of. It is true of all ethnicity's, all walks of life, every social class. All who are created by God have an internal desire for him. They may deny it, they may run the other way, but on the day when we must give account to God, no one will be without excuse. The desire to know him is in the hearts of all men, placed there by God himself.
Christians have this desire deep within. This song speaks to us, maybe even more than to others. What I want to say is this: Don't ever settle for an incomplete relationship with the God of the universe, and the God of our lives. We never have enough of him. We still have a God-shaped hole. Our Christian lives must be a continual growth experience from beginning to end. If you are not growing in faith and relationship with God, something must be changed. You may be trying to sort things out on your own. You may be facing challenges to your faith. You may be going through circumstances and difficulties that are disrupting your life. But know this: It's a void that only He can fill. We need to be reminded of this each day. We are eternal beings and the things that cause us to question our faith in God are temporary. Don't let any challenge keep you from the desire to grow and become more like Christ. There is no greater goal, nothing else worth striving for. We are running a race, and to those who finish, there awaits eternal crowns.
If you know the song, sing it today. If you don't, meditate on the words. We all have a hole in us and God is waiting to fill it. We don't have to earn it, we don't have to work for it. He will fill us to overflowing with his presence and blessing. Keep the faith, keep heading toward Jesus. There will come a time when the hole in our lives will be completely filled...With Him!
God-Shaped Hole
Performed by Plumb
Written by Wayne Kirkpatrick, Lee Kirkpatrick, and Tiffany Arbuckle
Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
I woke up this morning, thinking about this song. Although I haven't heard it in quite a long time, it was as clear and fresh in my mind as ever. I am learning to pay attention when this happens. I believe it is the Holy Spirit giving me thoughts to lead and change me.
I am struck by the absolute truth of this song. There truly is a God-shaped hole in all of us.This is true of all people. It doesn't matter if the person is an atheist, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Mormon, or any other religion you can think of. It is true of all ethnicity's, all walks of life, every social class. All who are created by God have an internal desire for him. They may deny it, they may run the other way, but on the day when we must give account to God, no one will be without excuse. The desire to know him is in the hearts of all men, placed there by God himself.
Christians have this desire deep within. This song speaks to us, maybe even more than to others. What I want to say is this: Don't ever settle for an incomplete relationship with the God of the universe, and the God of our lives. We never have enough of him. We still have a God-shaped hole. Our Christian lives must be a continual growth experience from beginning to end. If you are not growing in faith and relationship with God, something must be changed. You may be trying to sort things out on your own. You may be facing challenges to your faith. You may be going through circumstances and difficulties that are disrupting your life. But know this: It's a void that only He can fill. We need to be reminded of this each day. We are eternal beings and the things that cause us to question our faith in God are temporary. Don't let any challenge keep you from the desire to grow and become more like Christ. There is no greater goal, nothing else worth striving for. We are running a race, and to those who finish, there awaits eternal crowns.
If you know the song, sing it today. If you don't, meditate on the words. We all have a hole in us and God is waiting to fill it. We don't have to earn it, we don't have to work for it. He will fill us to overflowing with his presence and blessing. Keep the faith, keep heading toward Jesus. There will come a time when the hole in our lives will be completely filled...With Him!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
He Took it All
"Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquities of us all."
Isaiah 53:4-6
It amazes me how perfectly the prophet Isaiah describes the work of Jesus at the cross. Hundreds of years before it ever happened, God inspired a man to speak exactly what would happen at the cross. You see, God already had it planned. There was no question and nothing was left to chance. Jesus took the punishment, even death on the cross, so that we could live in freedom and security.
There is nothing that Jesus left for us to bear. He took it all. Our transgressions, our iniquities were all accounted for at the cross. Just think of it: The sins of all mankind, from beginning to end were covered by the one sacrifice. Jesus literally paid it all in one act of ultimate heroism. Although you and I had not yet been conceived, he covered our debt in advance. Often, we think that the weight of the world is on our shoulders. We feel like we cannot bear anything else. Life is too difficult, too disappointing, to possibly take any more. It is in those times that we need to remember Jesus. Although we feel this way, he actually did bear the weight of the entire world on his shoulders that day. He did it so we won't have to. He gave us a glorious hope that cannot be found anywhere else.
He gave us peace and healing through his death on the cross. Why do we run from this? Why do we doubt? The prophet is correct, we have stayed from the truth. We have peace through Jesus. It is an eternal peace, not just a temporal one. When it feels that there is upheaval in our lives, we can exchange that for the peace he has already delivered to us. He also died for our healing. I believe this is both emotional and physical. It is time that we begin to accept the whole work of the cross. Are we saved because of what He did at the cross? Yes! Are we healed by what He did at the cross? Yes! Do we have absolute peace because of what He did at the cross? Yes! Let's believe it!
One more thing: We need to remember to be incredibly thankful for the cross of Christ. You can never thank God enough for this. Without the cross, we have no life, we are separated from God, we are sick and lifeless. But with the cross, all the blessings we have talked about are ours. Thank him for it. It was the ultimate sacrifice, and through Him, we live now and forever!
Isaiah 53:4-6
It amazes me how perfectly the prophet Isaiah describes the work of Jesus at the cross. Hundreds of years before it ever happened, God inspired a man to speak exactly what would happen at the cross. You see, God already had it planned. There was no question and nothing was left to chance. Jesus took the punishment, even death on the cross, so that we could live in freedom and security.
There is nothing that Jesus left for us to bear. He took it all. Our transgressions, our iniquities were all accounted for at the cross. Just think of it: The sins of all mankind, from beginning to end were covered by the one sacrifice. Jesus literally paid it all in one act of ultimate heroism. Although you and I had not yet been conceived, he covered our debt in advance. Often, we think that the weight of the world is on our shoulders. We feel like we cannot bear anything else. Life is too difficult, too disappointing, to possibly take any more. It is in those times that we need to remember Jesus. Although we feel this way, he actually did bear the weight of the entire world on his shoulders that day. He did it so we won't have to. He gave us a glorious hope that cannot be found anywhere else.
He gave us peace and healing through his death on the cross. Why do we run from this? Why do we doubt? The prophet is correct, we have stayed from the truth. We have peace through Jesus. It is an eternal peace, not just a temporal one. When it feels that there is upheaval in our lives, we can exchange that for the peace he has already delivered to us. He also died for our healing. I believe this is both emotional and physical. It is time that we begin to accept the whole work of the cross. Are we saved because of what He did at the cross? Yes! Are we healed by what He did at the cross? Yes! Do we have absolute peace because of what He did at the cross? Yes! Let's believe it!
One more thing: We need to remember to be incredibly thankful for the cross of Christ. You can never thank God enough for this. Without the cross, we have no life, we are separated from God, we are sick and lifeless. But with the cross, all the blessings we have talked about are ours. Thank him for it. It was the ultimate sacrifice, and through Him, we live now and forever!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Famous Ones
"At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes."
Zephaniah 3:20
When Jesus came, a process of separation began. He preached that the Levitical law was not sufficient to give us righteousness before God. He spoke of a new way, one that would require people to receive what he did for us, one that would require the sacrifice of his life to be an atonement for all mankind. thus began the separation. Those who believed in Jesus would receive eternal life, those who would refuse him would have no part in his kingdom. Men could not obey the law well enough to be counted as righteous before a holy God.
As Christians, we must live in the world, but we are to be separate from the ungodly principles that govern it. In other words, we are to look different than the people who live their lives in the grasp of the world. This difference is seen through our lives, not necessarily by our words. Our words must be pure, but the difference is noticed because of our yielded lives before God. Let's face it, we are different.
We are living in days when this is becoming more evident than ever before. When the prophet Zephaniah wrote the scripture above, he was prophesying about a time when those who follow God will become famous. In fact, in the King James and New King James versions of the Bible, the phrase, "honor and praise" is translated, "fame and praise." Now we think of famous people that are movie stars, athletes, politicians and media personalities. But the days are coming and in fact are now here when Christians will be the famous ones. As the world degrades, the blessing of the Lord that is on all Christians will become more evident. While others are struggling, we will be prospering. While others are sick, we will be well. This will set us apart from the crowd. This will display the power of the gospel. Others will see us and desire the God who lives in us.
Let's start living like people who are different. Let's display the glory of the Lord. Let's allow him to set us apart through the Holy Spirit. Let's allow him to give us honor, fame, and praise among the peoples of the earth. It is of no value if we seek that fame on our own. It comes as we live our lives faithfully for him. The separation is becoming more visible all the time. We must take the blessing of the Lord to the world by living our lives before them in purity, holiness, and righteousness. Then they will surely see the famous ones and run to our God.
Zephaniah 3:20
When Jesus came, a process of separation began. He preached that the Levitical law was not sufficient to give us righteousness before God. He spoke of a new way, one that would require people to receive what he did for us, one that would require the sacrifice of his life to be an atonement for all mankind. thus began the separation. Those who believed in Jesus would receive eternal life, those who would refuse him would have no part in his kingdom. Men could not obey the law well enough to be counted as righteous before a holy God.
As Christians, we must live in the world, but we are to be separate from the ungodly principles that govern it. In other words, we are to look different than the people who live their lives in the grasp of the world. This difference is seen through our lives, not necessarily by our words. Our words must be pure, but the difference is noticed because of our yielded lives before God. Let's face it, we are different.
We are living in days when this is becoming more evident than ever before. When the prophet Zephaniah wrote the scripture above, he was prophesying about a time when those who follow God will become famous. In fact, in the King James and New King James versions of the Bible, the phrase, "honor and praise" is translated, "fame and praise." Now we think of famous people that are movie stars, athletes, politicians and media personalities. But the days are coming and in fact are now here when Christians will be the famous ones. As the world degrades, the blessing of the Lord that is on all Christians will become more evident. While others are struggling, we will be prospering. While others are sick, we will be well. This will set us apart from the crowd. This will display the power of the gospel. Others will see us and desire the God who lives in us.
Let's start living like people who are different. Let's display the glory of the Lord. Let's allow him to set us apart through the Holy Spirit. Let's allow him to give us honor, fame, and praise among the peoples of the earth. It is of no value if we seek that fame on our own. It comes as we live our lives faithfully for him. The separation is becoming more visible all the time. We must take the blessing of the Lord to the world by living our lives before them in purity, holiness, and righteousness. Then they will surely see the famous ones and run to our God.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Our Heritage
"'No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,' declares the Lord."
Isaiah 54:17
You and I have been given a heritage from God. I think we need to understand this: We were created in the image of God. This is what the Bible tells us. If we were created in his image, then, according to the Word, we are his offspring. For that reason, he has blessed with his own heritage. Although we are subject to the issues of the world, we have a promise that our heritage from him is secure.
We need to apply this truth in relation to the enemy of our souls. The devil has already been defeated and stripped of much of his power, but he still is in the business of trying to kill, steal, and destroy. He wants to drag as many people with him to hell as possible. There will always be opposition because we stand for righteousness through Jesus Christ. But we have to know that any weapon the enemy attempts to form against us will not prevail or prosper against us. We live within a secure heritage from God himself that protects us from such evil. Notice in the verse I referenced, that God says we are vindicated by him. We do not have to seek vindication on our own. We already have it through God. So there is no need to fear the onslaught of the enemy. He will not prevail.
There are times when people will come against you with the words they say. There may be accusations, insults, or jeers. The men and women who were the first Christians faced these things. The accusations were founded in lies and could not be proven against them. But the courts and wisdom of the world are not the issue. None of these accusations will stand in light of eternity. When people stand before a holy God, there is only one question that will be asked: Did you believe in and receive the work of Jesus on the cross? If you have, no other argument will stand against you. This is the only eternally important thing.
So, when it feels like things are gong wrong. When it seems that people are thinking and saying the worst about you, understand the truth. You have been given a heritage from God. That heritage will be completely fulfilled when we inherit heaven itself. For now, brush off the struggles, take the insults and jeers with a grain of salt. Your vindication is secure. The God of the universe has your back!
Isaiah 54:17
You and I have been given a heritage from God. I think we need to understand this: We were created in the image of God. This is what the Bible tells us. If we were created in his image, then, according to the Word, we are his offspring. For that reason, he has blessed with his own heritage. Although we are subject to the issues of the world, we have a promise that our heritage from him is secure.
We need to apply this truth in relation to the enemy of our souls. The devil has already been defeated and stripped of much of his power, but he still is in the business of trying to kill, steal, and destroy. He wants to drag as many people with him to hell as possible. There will always be opposition because we stand for righteousness through Jesus Christ. But we have to know that any weapon the enemy attempts to form against us will not prevail or prosper against us. We live within a secure heritage from God himself that protects us from such evil. Notice in the verse I referenced, that God says we are vindicated by him. We do not have to seek vindication on our own. We already have it through God. So there is no need to fear the onslaught of the enemy. He will not prevail.
There are times when people will come against you with the words they say. There may be accusations, insults, or jeers. The men and women who were the first Christians faced these things. The accusations were founded in lies and could not be proven against them. But the courts and wisdom of the world are not the issue. None of these accusations will stand in light of eternity. When people stand before a holy God, there is only one question that will be asked: Did you believe in and receive the work of Jesus on the cross? If you have, no other argument will stand against you. This is the only eternally important thing.
So, when it feels like things are gong wrong. When it seems that people are thinking and saying the worst about you, understand the truth. You have been given a heritage from God. That heritage will be completely fulfilled when we inherit heaven itself. For now, brush off the struggles, take the insults and jeers with a grain of salt. Your vindication is secure. The God of the universe has your back!
Friday, September 23, 2011
Rest Easy
"In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent."
Psalm 4:4
I am not happy with just giving God my days. I want to be with him when I am awake, but I want to be with when I am sleeping. I don't think the Holy Spirit stops speaking to me when I am asleep. I believe he is always pouring truth into my spirit. He gives me dreams, some of which have been very significant for direction in my life. He is God of my waking hours and God of my sleeping hours.
I have begun to practice this scripture. When I lay down to sleep, I take a few minutes to reflect on the day. I confess any known sin to God and he forgives me. I want to hear his voice all the time. Although my body is sleeping, my spirit is awake and receiving truth, blessing, hope, joy, peace, and righteousness from the Holy Spirit. I don't want anything to get in the way of that process. If I am angry, I have to get over it. If I have sinned, I don't want to let any more hours go by before I confess it to God.
This is a time to search my own heart. It is a time to ponder, reflect, meditate, and be quiet before God. Although I know that the Holy Spirit is always searching my heart, it is important that I do it as well. He partners with me to expose anything that does not glorify God. Many times, the Bible tells us that we will find rest in God. I believe this is a practical way to find that place of rest in him.
So tonight when you lay down to sleep, spend a few minutes with God. Take inventory of your day. What pleased God and what displeased him? Be honest with him and allow him to join you as you search your own heart. Remember, he is the God of your waking hours and your sleeping hours. Take a little time with God tonight and then...rest easy.
Psalm 4:4
I am not happy with just giving God my days. I want to be with him when I am awake, but I want to be with when I am sleeping. I don't think the Holy Spirit stops speaking to me when I am asleep. I believe he is always pouring truth into my spirit. He gives me dreams, some of which have been very significant for direction in my life. He is God of my waking hours and God of my sleeping hours.
I have begun to practice this scripture. When I lay down to sleep, I take a few minutes to reflect on the day. I confess any known sin to God and he forgives me. I want to hear his voice all the time. Although my body is sleeping, my spirit is awake and receiving truth, blessing, hope, joy, peace, and righteousness from the Holy Spirit. I don't want anything to get in the way of that process. If I am angry, I have to get over it. If I have sinned, I don't want to let any more hours go by before I confess it to God.
This is a time to search my own heart. It is a time to ponder, reflect, meditate, and be quiet before God. Although I know that the Holy Spirit is always searching my heart, it is important that I do it as well. He partners with me to expose anything that does not glorify God. Many times, the Bible tells us that we will find rest in God. I believe this is a practical way to find that place of rest in him.
So tonight when you lay down to sleep, spend a few minutes with God. Take inventory of your day. What pleased God and what displeased him? Be honest with him and allow him to join you as you search your own heart. Remember, he is the God of your waking hours and your sleeping hours. Take a little time with God tonight and then...rest easy.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Finding Fault
"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."
James 1:5
James, the apostle was a man of faith. He wrote about faith with passion. He was very clear about the things he said. Although the scripture I referenced here is in the context of his exhortation about faith, I would like to focus on one statement: "God, who gives generously to all without finding fault." I believe this is critical for us to understand. I think if we don't understand and believe this one statement, we will never exercise our faith with freedom.
It is human nature to find fault with people or things. It seems we must have someone or something to blame for the issues we have. So it is difficult to wrap our minds around the fact that God does not find fault with us. We somehow have the misunderstanding that God is looking for faults in us. We think that we are so sinful that God could not love us and see us as pure as snow. But he does! God will give to us without finding fault. He isn't looking for our faults, he is looking at our righteousness. We have received it through the blood of Jesus that cleansed us from all unrighteousness. From God's point of view, there is no fault in us.
So if God is not finding fault in us, why do we find so much fault in ourselves? It is the work of the sinful flesh and the enemy that tells us we are unworthy to receive anything good from God. This is a lie, and it will keep us from asking with faith. If we do not believe we are worthy to receive anything, we probably will not ask at all. James talked about this further when he said: "You do not have, because you do not ask God." (James 4:2). When we have thoughts that find fault with us, we can be assured that they do not come from God. Therefore, we should rebuke them, see ourselves as righteous, and then ask God for what we need. Then our faith is unobstructed. .
Stop finding fault with yourself. Stop allowing the enemy to degrade you. We all know we have faults, but that is not the issue. The issue is this: God does not see those faults if we have been covered by the blood of Jesus. We must understand that God is not like us. He is not on a fault-finding mission. He loves us as his own and he wants to give generously. So ask with faith, knowing that you are faultless in God's eyes, then receive the generosity of our loving God.
James 1:5
James, the apostle was a man of faith. He wrote about faith with passion. He was very clear about the things he said. Although the scripture I referenced here is in the context of his exhortation about faith, I would like to focus on one statement: "God, who gives generously to all without finding fault." I believe this is critical for us to understand. I think if we don't understand and believe this one statement, we will never exercise our faith with freedom.
It is human nature to find fault with people or things. It seems we must have someone or something to blame for the issues we have. So it is difficult to wrap our minds around the fact that God does not find fault with us. We somehow have the misunderstanding that God is looking for faults in us. We think that we are so sinful that God could not love us and see us as pure as snow. But he does! God will give to us without finding fault. He isn't looking for our faults, he is looking at our righteousness. We have received it through the blood of Jesus that cleansed us from all unrighteousness. From God's point of view, there is no fault in us.
So if God is not finding fault in us, why do we find so much fault in ourselves? It is the work of the sinful flesh and the enemy that tells us we are unworthy to receive anything good from God. This is a lie, and it will keep us from asking with faith. If we do not believe we are worthy to receive anything, we probably will not ask at all. James talked about this further when he said: "You do not have, because you do not ask God." (James 4:2). When we have thoughts that find fault with us, we can be assured that they do not come from God. Therefore, we should rebuke them, see ourselves as righteous, and then ask God for what we need. Then our faith is unobstructed. .
Stop finding fault with yourself. Stop allowing the enemy to degrade you. We all know we have faults, but that is not the issue. The issue is this: God does not see those faults if we have been covered by the blood of Jesus. We must understand that God is not like us. He is not on a fault-finding mission. He loves us as his own and he wants to give generously. So ask with faith, knowing that you are faultless in God's eyes, then receive the generosity of our loving God.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Worthless Wealth
"Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death."
Proverbs 11:4
Let's face it, we are living in the last days. Although I know that no man will know the hour or the day, I know that we can discern the season of his coming. All the things Jesus told us to watch for, are upon us right now. But we are told to continue to occupy until he comes. We are not to drop everything and go to a mountain to wait for him. Some have tried that and been disappointed. We must continue the work. We must fulfill our call to be Jesus in the world.
One thing is certain: The world economy will never be the same again. It is being changed and I believe it is the hand of God that is doing it. Many who were rich have lost great amounts of money. All the things we were once told to do are failing. Investments are risky and the stock markets that we once were confident in, are wildly flailing amidst the widespread economic changes.
I believe God is asking us a question: Do we trust him, or do we trust earthly wealth? Jobs pay less in relation to the cost of living, than ever before. Many people who used to earn hundreds of thousands of dollars per year, now earn barely enough to survive. These are the times in which we live. So we must change our focus. Earthly wealth counts for nothing. The old saying goes, "You can't take it with you." This is absolutely true. Wealth is temporary. While it may soothe us in the short-term, it has no eternal value. We must invest in righteousness, not worldly things.
In the midst of unrest, when many people are losing confidence in the world financial markets, we can have a deep peace that cannot be found in any other place but God himself. When we live our lives for him, what happens in the world only serves to deepen our conviction to serve him more. If your confidence is shaken, if you are worried about the future, change your mind and look to the true source for your life. Yes, these are perilous days, but those who trust in the Lord will never be shaken. In these days of God's wrath, wealth means nothing. But righteousness will last for eternity. Seek God, seek his kingdom, seek his righteousness, and you will be delivered!
Proverbs 11:4
Let's face it, we are living in the last days. Although I know that no man will know the hour or the day, I know that we can discern the season of his coming. All the things Jesus told us to watch for, are upon us right now. But we are told to continue to occupy until he comes. We are not to drop everything and go to a mountain to wait for him. Some have tried that and been disappointed. We must continue the work. We must fulfill our call to be Jesus in the world.
One thing is certain: The world economy will never be the same again. It is being changed and I believe it is the hand of God that is doing it. Many who were rich have lost great amounts of money. All the things we were once told to do are failing. Investments are risky and the stock markets that we once were confident in, are wildly flailing amidst the widespread economic changes.
I believe God is asking us a question: Do we trust him, or do we trust earthly wealth? Jobs pay less in relation to the cost of living, than ever before. Many people who used to earn hundreds of thousands of dollars per year, now earn barely enough to survive. These are the times in which we live. So we must change our focus. Earthly wealth counts for nothing. The old saying goes, "You can't take it with you." This is absolutely true. Wealth is temporary. While it may soothe us in the short-term, it has no eternal value. We must invest in righteousness, not worldly things.
In the midst of unrest, when many people are losing confidence in the world financial markets, we can have a deep peace that cannot be found in any other place but God himself. When we live our lives for him, what happens in the world only serves to deepen our conviction to serve him more. If your confidence is shaken, if you are worried about the future, change your mind and look to the true source for your life. Yes, these are perilous days, but those who trust in the Lord will never be shaken. In these days of God's wrath, wealth means nothing. But righteousness will last for eternity. Seek God, seek his kingdom, seek his righteousness, and you will be delivered!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
A Leap of Faith
"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going."
Hebrews 11:8
I have been thinking about faith a lot lately. This is partly because of where I am in my own life, and partly because I am being challenged by God to not only understand faith, but to act on it. Abraham is the great hero of faith. For generations, he has been cited as a man who lived at thee pinnacle of faith. This scripture refers to a time in his life when God spoke to him to pull up the tent pegs, load his possessions and move. Abraham obeyed, even though God did not tell him where he was going.
When I read this scripture, my mind immediately thought of a scene from one of the Indiana Jones movies. Indy found himself in a place where he must cross great obstacles to get to the Holy Grail. Only then would he have the ability to save his father who had been seriously wounded. He had some clues that his father had uncovered about how to pass through the obstacles. First, he must pass through an obstacle where many had already died trying to pass. Remembering one of the clues, he said, "The penitent man is humble before God." With that, he bowed and the great knife-like blades passed over his head. He was through! After passing through another obstacle, he found himself standing on the edge of a bottomless crevice. Suddenly a revelation came to him. He must take a leap of faith. So he stepped off the edge of the cliff. Of course, miraculously he stepped on a natural bridge that could not be seen before. So he conquered all the obstacles. He would get to the Holy Grail.
I am finding that my life must be like Indiana Jones. First, I must be humble before God. This means that I must be willing to receive what he speaks to me regardless of how it looks. I must remember that the wisdom of the world is foolishness to God. He always knows the correct path for me. Then, I must be willing to take a leap of faith, even if I don't know where it is leading. I only need to know one thing; that God has spoken to me. If I know that, I can obey and launch out in faith. This is difficult because it is more comfortable to stay where I am rather than move on. Like Abraham, I must believe God enough to trust him. I must be willing to move out in faith when he tells me to go.
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1). Once we are able to walk in this kind of truth, we will shed all fear and follow God completely. We may not see it or feel it, but we will know God's voice and we will be sure of our hope in him. I say, let's take a leap of faith and follow God wherever he leads us. Then we will be fulfilled.
Hebrews 11:8
I have been thinking about faith a lot lately. This is partly because of where I am in my own life, and partly because I am being challenged by God to not only understand faith, but to act on it. Abraham is the great hero of faith. For generations, he has been cited as a man who lived at thee pinnacle of faith. This scripture refers to a time in his life when God spoke to him to pull up the tent pegs, load his possessions and move. Abraham obeyed, even though God did not tell him where he was going.
When I read this scripture, my mind immediately thought of a scene from one of the Indiana Jones movies. Indy found himself in a place where he must cross great obstacles to get to the Holy Grail. Only then would he have the ability to save his father who had been seriously wounded. He had some clues that his father had uncovered about how to pass through the obstacles. First, he must pass through an obstacle where many had already died trying to pass. Remembering one of the clues, he said, "The penitent man is humble before God." With that, he bowed and the great knife-like blades passed over his head. He was through! After passing through another obstacle, he found himself standing on the edge of a bottomless crevice. Suddenly a revelation came to him. He must take a leap of faith. So he stepped off the edge of the cliff. Of course, miraculously he stepped on a natural bridge that could not be seen before. So he conquered all the obstacles. He would get to the Holy Grail.
I am finding that my life must be like Indiana Jones. First, I must be humble before God. This means that I must be willing to receive what he speaks to me regardless of how it looks. I must remember that the wisdom of the world is foolishness to God. He always knows the correct path for me. Then, I must be willing to take a leap of faith, even if I don't know where it is leading. I only need to know one thing; that God has spoken to me. If I know that, I can obey and launch out in faith. This is difficult because it is more comfortable to stay where I am rather than move on. Like Abraham, I must believe God enough to trust him. I must be willing to move out in faith when he tells me to go.
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1). Once we are able to walk in this kind of truth, we will shed all fear and follow God completely. We may not see it or feel it, but we will know God's voice and we will be sure of our hope in him. I say, let's take a leap of faith and follow God wherever he leads us. Then we will be fulfilled.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Reward for the Seekers
"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
Hebrews 11:6
The only way we can please God is through our faith. I believe this should set a lot of us free from the idea that we must do things to please God. This scripture doesn't necessarily speak of doing anything, just having faith. Of course we know that true faith involves not only believing, but also acting on that belief. So in that sense, we must do something to please God. But the issue here is the heart. If we feel that we must perform to earn good things from God, we are mistaken. God loves us for who we are. But he rewards those who act in faith.
What are the rewards God gives us? I have found that they are not necessarily physical things. It is usually not money or earthly things. He wants to bless us in those ways, but the rewards he gives are more often spiritual ones. I have found a direct correlation between how much I seek God and how much reward there is. When I am spending time with him and listening, I get closer to him. The rewards I receive are the peace and knowledge that I am close to God. Jesus said if we seek him, we will find him. This is the promise of God's Word, and it has proven to be true in my life. I have also found that the more I seek him, the more reward there is. I hear his voice more often and experience more insights into his kingdom.
I used to think that seeking God meant doing things for him. I felt that if I worked hard enough, prayed enough, read the Bible enough, or shared the gospel enough, I would be rewarded. But now I realize that these things flow out of my life when I am in intimate fellowship with God. That must come first. I have found that I can become so busy that I forget to spend time with him. God takes second place to my efforts. But the rewards that last come from intimate relationship with him, and that relationship is built on faith. We cannot see God with our physical eyes. We rarely hear him with our physical ears, or touch him with our hands. But we experience him through faith. Anything we try, other than faith, will not please him. If it is true that "Without faith it is impossible to please God," then the opposite is also true, with faith, we can please God.
So I encourage you to seek God. Spend time with him. Take time to listen. Too often, we do all the talking and leave little time for him to speak to us. I know that you will find reward in having a deeper relationship with God. He is our reward. Seek him, and you will find him.
Hebrews 11:6
The only way we can please God is through our faith. I believe this should set a lot of us free from the idea that we must do things to please God. This scripture doesn't necessarily speak of doing anything, just having faith. Of course we know that true faith involves not only believing, but also acting on that belief. So in that sense, we must do something to please God. But the issue here is the heart. If we feel that we must perform to earn good things from God, we are mistaken. God loves us for who we are. But he rewards those who act in faith.
What are the rewards God gives us? I have found that they are not necessarily physical things. It is usually not money or earthly things. He wants to bless us in those ways, but the rewards he gives are more often spiritual ones. I have found a direct correlation between how much I seek God and how much reward there is. When I am spending time with him and listening, I get closer to him. The rewards I receive are the peace and knowledge that I am close to God. Jesus said if we seek him, we will find him. This is the promise of God's Word, and it has proven to be true in my life. I have also found that the more I seek him, the more reward there is. I hear his voice more often and experience more insights into his kingdom.
I used to think that seeking God meant doing things for him. I felt that if I worked hard enough, prayed enough, read the Bible enough, or shared the gospel enough, I would be rewarded. But now I realize that these things flow out of my life when I am in intimate fellowship with God. That must come first. I have found that I can become so busy that I forget to spend time with him. God takes second place to my efforts. But the rewards that last come from intimate relationship with him, and that relationship is built on faith. We cannot see God with our physical eyes. We rarely hear him with our physical ears, or touch him with our hands. But we experience him through faith. Anything we try, other than faith, will not please him. If it is true that "Without faith it is impossible to please God," then the opposite is also true, with faith, we can please God.
So I encourage you to seek God. Spend time with him. Take time to listen. Too often, we do all the talking and leave little time for him to speak to us. I know that you will find reward in having a deeper relationship with God. He is our reward. Seek him, and you will find him.
Friday, September 16, 2011
The Handwriting on the Wall
"Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The king watched the hand as it wrote. His face turned pale and he was so frightened that his knees knocked together and his legs gave way."
Daniel 5:5&6
Have you ever heard the phrase, "The handwriting is on the wall?" This scripture is where that phrase came from. The Babylonian king, Belshazzar, was frightened by what he saw. Even then, he knew that the handwriting on the wall couldn't be a good thing, he summoned his enchanters, magicians, and astrologers to interpret what was written, but they could not understand the words. The handwriting was eventually discerned and it spelled the end of Belshazzar's reign. In fact, he was overthrown that very night.
By now, you must be thinking, this is not a very encouraging word so far. But there is a hero in this story. The hero is Daniel. He was the one who interpreted the writing, and even though it was the word of God telling the king that his kingdom was to be destroyed, Daniel was elevated to a high position in the kingdom. Although the handwriting on the wall was destructive to some, for Daniel, it was a blessing from God. It changed his life.
Sometimes we face situations and circumstances in our lives that look very much like the handwriting is on the wall. We think that we are going to be destroyed by the crisis. But we must always remember that, as children of the king of Kings, it may well turn out to be a blessing. Why do we always think the worst is going to happen? Is our God a tyrant? Is he bent on destroying us? No! He is a loving and compassionate God. His love and mercy is immeasurably greater than we can imagine. His intentions are not to destroy us, they are to bless us.
So if you are facing a time right now that looks like the handwriting is on the wall, consider this: You may be a Daniel, not a Belshazzar. What may look like the end of your world, may be the greatest blessing you have ever received from our loving Father. God moves things, he changes things. Sometimes that process seems violent, but his plan is for blessing, not destruction. The next time you think the handwriting is on the wall, it should bring a smile to your face. God's blessing is right around the corner.
Daniel 5:5&6
Have you ever heard the phrase, "The handwriting is on the wall?" This scripture is where that phrase came from. The Babylonian king, Belshazzar, was frightened by what he saw. Even then, he knew that the handwriting on the wall couldn't be a good thing, he summoned his enchanters, magicians, and astrologers to interpret what was written, but they could not understand the words. The handwriting was eventually discerned and it spelled the end of Belshazzar's reign. In fact, he was overthrown that very night.
By now, you must be thinking, this is not a very encouraging word so far. But there is a hero in this story. The hero is Daniel. He was the one who interpreted the writing, and even though it was the word of God telling the king that his kingdom was to be destroyed, Daniel was elevated to a high position in the kingdom. Although the handwriting on the wall was destructive to some, for Daniel, it was a blessing from God. It changed his life.
Sometimes we face situations and circumstances in our lives that look very much like the handwriting is on the wall. We think that we are going to be destroyed by the crisis. But we must always remember that, as children of the king of Kings, it may well turn out to be a blessing. Why do we always think the worst is going to happen? Is our God a tyrant? Is he bent on destroying us? No! He is a loving and compassionate God. His love and mercy is immeasurably greater than we can imagine. His intentions are not to destroy us, they are to bless us.
So if you are facing a time right now that looks like the handwriting is on the wall, consider this: You may be a Daniel, not a Belshazzar. What may look like the end of your world, may be the greatest blessing you have ever received from our loving Father. God moves things, he changes things. Sometimes that process seems violent, but his plan is for blessing, not destruction. The next time you think the handwriting is on the wall, it should bring a smile to your face. God's blessing is right around the corner.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Omnipresent
"The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him. In the same way, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God."
1 Corinthians 2:11
I want to establish a truth today. God is omnipresent. This simply means that he is everywhere at the same time. This omnipresence transcends time, space, and distance. The Bible tells us that there is nowhere we can go that God will not already be there. The Psalmist wrote it and Paul reaffirmed it in the book of Romans. I know this is difficult to understand, but I believe we can shed some light on the truth by talking about God, the Holy Spirit.
We know that God is made up of three persons. God the Father, Jesus the son, and the Holy Spirit. I would like to focus on the Holy Spirit today. You see, the Holy Spirit has always been God. I cringe when I hear Christian people refer to the Holy Spirit as an 'it.' He is God and he is everywhere. In Genesis chapter one, it tells us that the Spirit of God hovered over the waters. This was before anything was created. The Holy Spirit was there at the beginning because he is God. Somehow, we forget about the Holy Spirit. We often tell people that Jesus has come to live in their hearts when they receive him. This is true, but he lives there in the person of the Holy Spirit. Everyone who is a true believer and disciple of Christ has God living within them. The Holy Spirit has come and made his dwelling in us.
So, how is God omnipresent? He is omnipresent because his Spirit lives in us. The Holy Spirit is the 'messenger' part of God. He speaks to us and reveals God's will. He knows everything about us and he knows everything about God the Father and Jesus. So he reveals the fullness of the Godhead to us. He never speaks on his own, and he does not draw attention to himself. He calls us to praise the Father and Jesus. In this life, we will never understand fully the omniscience and omnipresence of God. But we can know the truth that the Holy Spirit is alive. He is manifesting God in all of our lives.
Remember the Holy Spirit. He is so close to us that no brother could ever be closer. He is such an incredible counselor that no counsel of men can compare. He is such a wonderful teacher that all the wisdom of the world seems like foolishness in comparison. He is such a friend that we can literally tell him anything, even the deepest, darkest, and most embarrassing failures of our lives. And he will listen, comfort, and encourage us every time. All this is so personal, yet he is so big that he is God himself. What an incredible life we live. What a blessing we have received. God is omnipresent and we live in him.
1 Corinthians 2:11
I want to establish a truth today. God is omnipresent. This simply means that he is everywhere at the same time. This omnipresence transcends time, space, and distance. The Bible tells us that there is nowhere we can go that God will not already be there. The Psalmist wrote it and Paul reaffirmed it in the book of Romans. I know this is difficult to understand, but I believe we can shed some light on the truth by talking about God, the Holy Spirit.
We know that God is made up of three persons. God the Father, Jesus the son, and the Holy Spirit. I would like to focus on the Holy Spirit today. You see, the Holy Spirit has always been God. I cringe when I hear Christian people refer to the Holy Spirit as an 'it.' He is God and he is everywhere. In Genesis chapter one, it tells us that the Spirit of God hovered over the waters. This was before anything was created. The Holy Spirit was there at the beginning because he is God. Somehow, we forget about the Holy Spirit. We often tell people that Jesus has come to live in their hearts when they receive him. This is true, but he lives there in the person of the Holy Spirit. Everyone who is a true believer and disciple of Christ has God living within them. The Holy Spirit has come and made his dwelling in us.
So, how is God omnipresent? He is omnipresent because his Spirit lives in us. The Holy Spirit is the 'messenger' part of God. He speaks to us and reveals God's will. He knows everything about us and he knows everything about God the Father and Jesus. So he reveals the fullness of the Godhead to us. He never speaks on his own, and he does not draw attention to himself. He calls us to praise the Father and Jesus. In this life, we will never understand fully the omniscience and omnipresence of God. But we can know the truth that the Holy Spirit is alive. He is manifesting God in all of our lives.
Remember the Holy Spirit. He is so close to us that no brother could ever be closer. He is such an incredible counselor that no counsel of men can compare. He is such a wonderful teacher that all the wisdom of the world seems like foolishness in comparison. He is such a friend that we can literally tell him anything, even the deepest, darkest, and most embarrassing failures of our lives. And he will listen, comfort, and encourage us every time. All this is so personal, yet he is so big that he is God himself. What an incredible life we live. What a blessing we have received. God is omnipresent and we live in him.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Confirming Salvation
"This salvation that was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders, and various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will."
Hebrews 2:3b&4
By now you know that I believe we are all ministers of Jesus Christ. I believe that we are his hands, feet, and mouth on the earth. We are to deliver the message of salvation in the same way Jesus did. It is interesting that Jesus did not just deliver the message of salvation only through his words, he also delivered it with a demonstration of the power of God. In fact, this was what caught the attention of the skeptics. They had heard new teaching before, they had experienced the rise of dynamic religious leaders, but their teachings all proved to be ineffective to change lives. But Jesus not only taught with authority, he backed it up by the things he did. So should we.
It strikes me that this scripture could be written from the viewpoint of a curious unbeliever in the days of Jesus' ministry. They would say that Jesus first brought this message and that those who followed him had confirmed the message to them. But they would also say that it was further confirmed by the things they saw, not just the things they heard. I wonder if people are saying that now?
The message of salvation is amazing. It is an eternity-changing gift for all. But people need to not only hear the message, they need to see it in us. When people see signs, wonders, and miracles, they naturally are drawn to the author of them. When they see the gifts of the Holy Spirit alive in us, they are drawn to find out what it is all about. You see, God has placed eternity in the hearts of all men. Why do you think people are drawn to theaters to watch stories abut the supernatural? Whether they are about angels or demons, people are curious. They are also curious about the reality of God. They want to see and experience him. Just hearing the words may not be enough. They need to see salvation in a touchable way.
People need to see us praying for others. They need to see us laying hands on the sick and believing that God is going to heal them. They need to know that it actually happens. They need to see the gifts of the Holy Spirit alive and working in our lives. All these things testify to the reality of Christ and his salvation. The apostle Paul said, "The kingdom of God is not a matter of talk, but of power." (1 Corinthians 4:20). I don't want to just talk like a Christian, I want to act like one!
Hebrews 2:3b&4
By now you know that I believe we are all ministers of Jesus Christ. I believe that we are his hands, feet, and mouth on the earth. We are to deliver the message of salvation in the same way Jesus did. It is interesting that Jesus did not just deliver the message of salvation only through his words, he also delivered it with a demonstration of the power of God. In fact, this was what caught the attention of the skeptics. They had heard new teaching before, they had experienced the rise of dynamic religious leaders, but their teachings all proved to be ineffective to change lives. But Jesus not only taught with authority, he backed it up by the things he did. So should we.
It strikes me that this scripture could be written from the viewpoint of a curious unbeliever in the days of Jesus' ministry. They would say that Jesus first brought this message and that those who followed him had confirmed the message to them. But they would also say that it was further confirmed by the things they saw, not just the things they heard. I wonder if people are saying that now?
The message of salvation is amazing. It is an eternity-changing gift for all. But people need to not only hear the message, they need to see it in us. When people see signs, wonders, and miracles, they naturally are drawn to the author of them. When they see the gifts of the Holy Spirit alive in us, they are drawn to find out what it is all about. You see, God has placed eternity in the hearts of all men. Why do you think people are drawn to theaters to watch stories abut the supernatural? Whether they are about angels or demons, people are curious. They are also curious about the reality of God. They want to see and experience him. Just hearing the words may not be enough. They need to see salvation in a touchable way.
People need to see us praying for others. They need to see us laying hands on the sick and believing that God is going to heal them. They need to know that it actually happens. They need to see the gifts of the Holy Spirit alive and working in our lives. All these things testify to the reality of Christ and his salvation. The apostle Paul said, "The kingdom of God is not a matter of talk, but of power." (1 Corinthians 4:20). I don't want to just talk like a Christian, I want to act like one!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Hard Teaching
"Jesus said to them, 'I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.' On hearing it, many of his disciples said, 'This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?' From this time, many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him."
John 6:53,60,66
Jesus spoke to the Pharisees with force in this passage of scripture. I have highlighted the events of John 6 with just three verses, but the teaching, the response of the Pharisees, and the response of Jesus' disciples fills the entire chapter. We know that Jesus was speaking of salvation here. He was saying that we all must make a choice to participate in the death and resurrection, in order to experience eternal life. But the ears of the hearers were blocked. They did not understand what was being said and it sounded much too difficult to receive.
Jesus knew what would happen that day. He knew that the Pharisees would not receive what he said, and he knew that many of his own disciples would desert him because of this teaching. But he delivered the word anyway. Although Jesus wanted to reach all people with the message of salvation, he was not impressed with how large the crowd was that gathered around him. He did not need onlookers. He did not need passive observers. He wanted disciples, true disciples. He desired those who would believe him, no matter how hard the teaching was. Those men who stayed with him went on to become some of the greatest men in the kingdom of heaven. They were faithful to Jesus, no matter how rough the road became.
Today, we have many great leaders. We have many true men of God who proclaim the fullness of the kingdom of God, even if it means the crowds thin. But there are those who continue to appeal to the itching ears of people who want the benefits of the gospel without entering in to the kingdom of God and sacrificing themselves in favor of all that Christ offers us. The gospel of Christ is true, all of it. We cannot take only the easy part and reject the rest. Jesus expects us to follow him in the fullness of his life and teaching. He has equipped us to do just that. Let's not settle for a cheap imitation.
I love the fact that Christ is being preached. I will never reject or speak against anyone who delivers the gospel of Christ. But we are called to be disciples. So when the teaching gets a little tougher to swallow, we must be willing to spread our lives before God and receive all that he has for us. Please make a decision to enter into the depths of Christ. Some of his teachings may be difficult, but the reward is great. Don't settle for less than all that God offers. Accept the hard teaching, even if the rest of the crowd leaves.
John 6:53,60,66
Jesus spoke to the Pharisees with force in this passage of scripture. I have highlighted the events of John 6 with just three verses, but the teaching, the response of the Pharisees, and the response of Jesus' disciples fills the entire chapter. We know that Jesus was speaking of salvation here. He was saying that we all must make a choice to participate in the death and resurrection, in order to experience eternal life. But the ears of the hearers were blocked. They did not understand what was being said and it sounded much too difficult to receive.
Jesus knew what would happen that day. He knew that the Pharisees would not receive what he said, and he knew that many of his own disciples would desert him because of this teaching. But he delivered the word anyway. Although Jesus wanted to reach all people with the message of salvation, he was not impressed with how large the crowd was that gathered around him. He did not need onlookers. He did not need passive observers. He wanted disciples, true disciples. He desired those who would believe him, no matter how hard the teaching was. Those men who stayed with him went on to become some of the greatest men in the kingdom of heaven. They were faithful to Jesus, no matter how rough the road became.
Today, we have many great leaders. We have many true men of God who proclaim the fullness of the kingdom of God, even if it means the crowds thin. But there are those who continue to appeal to the itching ears of people who want the benefits of the gospel without entering in to the kingdom of God and sacrificing themselves in favor of all that Christ offers us. The gospel of Christ is true, all of it. We cannot take only the easy part and reject the rest. Jesus expects us to follow him in the fullness of his life and teaching. He has equipped us to do just that. Let's not settle for a cheap imitation.
I love the fact that Christ is being preached. I will never reject or speak against anyone who delivers the gospel of Christ. But we are called to be disciples. So when the teaching gets a little tougher to swallow, we must be willing to spread our lives before God and receive all that he has for us. Please make a decision to enter into the depths of Christ. Some of his teachings may be difficult, but the reward is great. Don't settle for less than all that God offers. Accept the hard teaching, even if the rest of the crowd leaves.
Monday, September 12, 2011
An Avenging God
"The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on his foes and vents his wrath against his enemies."
Nahum 1:2
These past few days have been emotional for me. With this being the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America on September 11, 2001, the airwaves were full of stories about the tragedy. There were many stories about survivors who were miraculously rescued. There were also many stories of families that still feel the pain and grief of losing family members on that infamous day. All this brought back the memories of that day for me. I was shocked, tearful, and angry all at the same time. These few days served to remind me of all those emotions again.
But I also realize something that is so important in my life. It is God who will take vengeance on his enemies. It is not mine. If I harbor hate toward the people who perpetrated this terrible attack, I will only be consumed with it. It is not my place to hate, my call is to love people as God loves them. Although it is difficult, I must come to grips with the fact that God loves the people who did this terrible thing. Furthermore, it is his place to avenge our nation. God is concerned with nations. He is the reason nations rise and fall. He is in control and has allowed every king, president and leader to emerge. This is too lofty for me to understand and I must yield to the wisdom of God.
Nahum the prophet understood that God has enemies. God has a people that he has called to himself. As Christians, we are those people. God has also chosen the nation of Israel as his own. He is protective of them and loves that nation as his own people. America has been blessed because we have been friends of Israel. Those nations who oppose Israel often suffer God's wrath. All the nations of the world must submit to God.
So,I am reminded to pray for our nation. I love America. I am honored to be a citizen of this great nation. But I am also reminded to pray for our enemies. Jesus taught us to do this and it is as important now as it was when he said it. Although I cry for the great loss we have suffered, I will pray for our enemies and leave the vengeance to God.
Nahum 1:2
These past few days have been emotional for me. With this being the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America on September 11, 2001, the airwaves were full of stories about the tragedy. There were many stories about survivors who were miraculously rescued. There were also many stories of families that still feel the pain and grief of losing family members on that infamous day. All this brought back the memories of that day for me. I was shocked, tearful, and angry all at the same time. These few days served to remind me of all those emotions again.
But I also realize something that is so important in my life. It is God who will take vengeance on his enemies. It is not mine. If I harbor hate toward the people who perpetrated this terrible attack, I will only be consumed with it. It is not my place to hate, my call is to love people as God loves them. Although it is difficult, I must come to grips with the fact that God loves the people who did this terrible thing. Furthermore, it is his place to avenge our nation. God is concerned with nations. He is the reason nations rise and fall. He is in control and has allowed every king, president and leader to emerge. This is too lofty for me to understand and I must yield to the wisdom of God.
Nahum the prophet understood that God has enemies. God has a people that he has called to himself. As Christians, we are those people. God has also chosen the nation of Israel as his own. He is protective of them and loves that nation as his own people. America has been blessed because we have been friends of Israel. Those nations who oppose Israel often suffer God's wrath. All the nations of the world must submit to God.
So,I am reminded to pray for our nation. I love America. I am honored to be a citizen of this great nation. But I am also reminded to pray for our enemies. Jesus taught us to do this and it is as important now as it was when he said it. Although I cry for the great loss we have suffered, I will pray for our enemies and leave the vengeance to God.
Friday, September 9, 2011
People of Principle
"Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: 'Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!'? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings."
Colossians 2:20-22
This scripture is perhaps the most direct assault on legalism that is written in the Bible. Many Christians live their lives obeying religious rules rather than pursuing a relationship with God. Religion and legalism go hand in hand. If we choose to live this way, we are robbing the cross of its power. We are discrediting the work of Christ.
I lived many years of my Christian life believing that these rules and regulations were somehow imposed by God. I thought he was the author of all the 'do nots.' But I have been set free from this lie. God is not a God of do's and don'ts. He is a God of freedom. I have found that I retained my convictions about what activities to participate in and what not to participate in, but now, these convictions are based on a deep desire to express my love for God through the things I do. Before, I simply denied myself to follow the rules that were set before me. In the church I grew up in, we could not dance, go to movies, play cards, or go to roller skating rinks. There were rules, and we dared not break them. "If Jesus came back, would he go into that movie theater and get you?" they would say. We believed the answer was no, so we didn't go.
But here is the thing that really comes against this type of thinking: Jesus spent the majority of his earthly life hanging out with sinners. He went to their houses, he went to the places they were. If he were physically here today, he would be in bars, movie theaters, clubs, sporting events, and festivals. He would be with the people who needed him the most. So, how dare we walk around with pious faces, proclaiming that we don't do the things the people of the world do. I am not advocating that we take up drugs, excessive alcohol, or any other worldly thing. I am simply saying that living by a set of human imposed rules does not work...period.
We are to live our lives in the righteousness that Jesus provided. We are to strive for holiness by following the leading of the Holy Spirit. When we do these things, we are building eternal dwellings. If we choose religion, rules, and regulations as our moral compass, we will surely fall because these things will perish. So let's be people of principle. Let's become the reflection of God's glory in the world. How else will Christ be preached? If we are living in a human imposed puritanical world, we will be ineffective for the cause of Christ. Freedom, blessing, and love are found in an intense relationship with God. When we are in love with him, there are no regulations.
Colossians 2:20-22
This scripture is perhaps the most direct assault on legalism that is written in the Bible. Many Christians live their lives obeying religious rules rather than pursuing a relationship with God. Religion and legalism go hand in hand. If we choose to live this way, we are robbing the cross of its power. We are discrediting the work of Christ.
I lived many years of my Christian life believing that these rules and regulations were somehow imposed by God. I thought he was the author of all the 'do nots.' But I have been set free from this lie. God is not a God of do's and don'ts. He is a God of freedom. I have found that I retained my convictions about what activities to participate in and what not to participate in, but now, these convictions are based on a deep desire to express my love for God through the things I do. Before, I simply denied myself to follow the rules that were set before me. In the church I grew up in, we could not dance, go to movies, play cards, or go to roller skating rinks. There were rules, and we dared not break them. "If Jesus came back, would he go into that movie theater and get you?" they would say. We believed the answer was no, so we didn't go.
But here is the thing that really comes against this type of thinking: Jesus spent the majority of his earthly life hanging out with sinners. He went to their houses, he went to the places they were. If he were physically here today, he would be in bars, movie theaters, clubs, sporting events, and festivals. He would be with the people who needed him the most. So, how dare we walk around with pious faces, proclaiming that we don't do the things the people of the world do. I am not advocating that we take up drugs, excessive alcohol, or any other worldly thing. I am simply saying that living by a set of human imposed rules does not work...period.
We are to live our lives in the righteousness that Jesus provided. We are to strive for holiness by following the leading of the Holy Spirit. When we do these things, we are building eternal dwellings. If we choose religion, rules, and regulations as our moral compass, we will surely fall because these things will perish. So let's be people of principle. Let's become the reflection of God's glory in the world. How else will Christ be preached? If we are living in a human imposed puritanical world, we will be ineffective for the cause of Christ. Freedom, blessing, and love are found in an intense relationship with God. When we are in love with him, there are no regulations.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
No Time to be Timid
"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner."
2 Timothy 1:6-8a
I have read Paul's letters to Timothy many times. The second letter in particular, gives us insight into the life of the young pastor who was mentored by Paul. The verses I referenced here speak of an issue that Timothy had. It is one that I believe was in part, due to his personality. But I think there was another underlying issue as well. I believe Timothy had been hurt. We have no direct reference to how it happened, or what it was. But clearly there had been some event or events that led to Paul's concern for his son in the faith. Timothy had become timid.
The word timidity, used in the NIV, is translated fear in other Bible translations. So Timothy had an issue with fear. I have said it before, fear cripples your faith. If you are bound up in fear, you will never have the confidence to launch out and do what God is calling you to do. Like Timothy, we must overcome this and move into the glorious freedom found in acting on our faith. I realize that some people are timid. They are not comfortable speaking to others and even the thought of doing so raises fear. I do not believe that God asks us to act in ways that are contrary the way he created us. If a person is quiet and timid in their nature, it is okay. But if one is fearful because of a bad experience or rejection, this must be overcome. Hear the words Paul spoke to Timothy: "God did NOT give us a spirit of timidity (fear)." (Emphasis mine). So if God did not give it to us, it came through some other source, primarily the enemy. He loves to use circumstances to breed fear in God's people. But we do not have a spirit of fear, we have a spirit of power, love and self-discipline. This is who we are in Christ.
Timothy had a gift. It was evident to all. But somewhere along the line, he lost confidence in what God had placed in him. He gave up. Paul's encouragement to him was to fan that gift into full flame. All of us are gifted by God. Every Christian has the Holy Spirit within them and he is the giver of gifts. If your gift is preaching, then preach. If it is hospitality, then be hospitable. If it is evangelism, then evangelize. If it is prophecy, then prophesy. If it is healing, then lay hands on people and watch God heal them. Fear cannot stop us. Timidity cannot be an excuse. The same God who created us and gave us our personalities, also gave us gifts which he expects us to use. So let's stop being fearful and fan the gifts we have into flame. Let's believe we are gifted and blessed people. Let's say to the enemy, "You cannot stop me. You cannot cripple me with fear!" Then let's go and make disciples.
2 Timothy 1:6-8a
I have read Paul's letters to Timothy many times. The second letter in particular, gives us insight into the life of the young pastor who was mentored by Paul. The verses I referenced here speak of an issue that Timothy had. It is one that I believe was in part, due to his personality. But I think there was another underlying issue as well. I believe Timothy had been hurt. We have no direct reference to how it happened, or what it was. But clearly there had been some event or events that led to Paul's concern for his son in the faith. Timothy had become timid.
The word timidity, used in the NIV, is translated fear in other Bible translations. So Timothy had an issue with fear. I have said it before, fear cripples your faith. If you are bound up in fear, you will never have the confidence to launch out and do what God is calling you to do. Like Timothy, we must overcome this and move into the glorious freedom found in acting on our faith. I realize that some people are timid. They are not comfortable speaking to others and even the thought of doing so raises fear. I do not believe that God asks us to act in ways that are contrary the way he created us. If a person is quiet and timid in their nature, it is okay. But if one is fearful because of a bad experience or rejection, this must be overcome. Hear the words Paul spoke to Timothy: "God did NOT give us a spirit of timidity (fear)." (Emphasis mine). So if God did not give it to us, it came through some other source, primarily the enemy. He loves to use circumstances to breed fear in God's people. But we do not have a spirit of fear, we have a spirit of power, love and self-discipline. This is who we are in Christ.
Timothy had a gift. It was evident to all. But somewhere along the line, he lost confidence in what God had placed in him. He gave up. Paul's encouragement to him was to fan that gift into full flame. All of us are gifted by God. Every Christian has the Holy Spirit within them and he is the giver of gifts. If your gift is preaching, then preach. If it is hospitality, then be hospitable. If it is evangelism, then evangelize. If it is prophecy, then prophesy. If it is healing, then lay hands on people and watch God heal them. Fear cannot stop us. Timidity cannot be an excuse. The same God who created us and gave us our personalities, also gave us gifts which he expects us to use. So let's stop being fearful and fan the gifts we have into flame. Let's believe we are gifted and blessed people. Let's say to the enemy, "You cannot stop me. You cannot cripple me with fear!" Then let's go and make disciples.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Out of the Depths
"Out of the depths I cry to you, o Lord; O Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy. If you, O Lord, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared."
Psalm 130:1-4
Do you ever feel like you are in the depths? Sometimes it seems like you are in the depths of despair. Other times, it may feel like you are caught in the depths of sin. Still other times, it may feel like you are so distant from God that he cannot hear your cries for help. These things sometimes overtake us. We are people who must contend with our own heats. Often, this is a difficult task..
But there is a key, according to the Psalmist. When we are in the depths, we must cry out to the Lord. Otherwise, we may be swallowed up by the miry pit. Despair is dangerous. It consumes us, creates feelings of hopelessness, and breeds a 'woe is me' attitude. It is easy for our flesh to agree with despair. It is also easy for the enemy of our souls to use despair to derail us. We have to recognize feelings of despair and take them captive in the name of Jesus. This is no different than any other type of spiritual warfare. Recognize that despair comes from the enemy, not God. Then deal with it as you would any other attack of the devil. Rebuke the enemy, isolate the thoughts, and ask God to take away the despair. Sometimes despair is so intense that you must cry out to God. Sometimes there is no other path that can bring release. Don't be afraid, just cry out to him and he will answer.
I remember a particular night, a year or more ago. I was filled with despair. We were struggling financially, had no job or income, and things looked bleak. I got in my car and went for a drive in the dark. I begin to cry out to God. In fact, I literally screamed at him. The prayers weren't eloquent, they were spoken out of a hurting heart. I cried until I thought no more tears could possibly come. But I released all of it to God that night. By the time I got home, our immediate financial need had already been met.
If you are are in despair because of difficult circumstances, cry out to God. It is from the place of despair that heartfelt petitions come. Be assured of this: God will hear you and he will answer your cries. If you are in despair because of sin, remember this: God keeps no record of wrongs. Confess your sin and know that you have been forgiven. God will never bring it up again. You are clean before him. Ultimate forgiveness comes from God alone. You are not separated from him, a bridge has been built that crosses the chasm of sin. The bridge is Jesus himself. Do not give into despair. Out of the depths, cry out to God, and he will rescue you. This is his word, this is his guarantee.
Psalm 130:1-4
Do you ever feel like you are in the depths? Sometimes it seems like you are in the depths of despair. Other times, it may feel like you are caught in the depths of sin. Still other times, it may feel like you are so distant from God that he cannot hear your cries for help. These things sometimes overtake us. We are people who must contend with our own heats. Often, this is a difficult task..
But there is a key, according to the Psalmist. When we are in the depths, we must cry out to the Lord. Otherwise, we may be swallowed up by the miry pit. Despair is dangerous. It consumes us, creates feelings of hopelessness, and breeds a 'woe is me' attitude. It is easy for our flesh to agree with despair. It is also easy for the enemy of our souls to use despair to derail us. We have to recognize feelings of despair and take them captive in the name of Jesus. This is no different than any other type of spiritual warfare. Recognize that despair comes from the enemy, not God. Then deal with it as you would any other attack of the devil. Rebuke the enemy, isolate the thoughts, and ask God to take away the despair. Sometimes despair is so intense that you must cry out to God. Sometimes there is no other path that can bring release. Don't be afraid, just cry out to him and he will answer.
I remember a particular night, a year or more ago. I was filled with despair. We were struggling financially, had no job or income, and things looked bleak. I got in my car and went for a drive in the dark. I begin to cry out to God. In fact, I literally screamed at him. The prayers weren't eloquent, they were spoken out of a hurting heart. I cried until I thought no more tears could possibly come. But I released all of it to God that night. By the time I got home, our immediate financial need had already been met.
If you are are in despair because of difficult circumstances, cry out to God. It is from the place of despair that heartfelt petitions come. Be assured of this: God will hear you and he will answer your cries. If you are in despair because of sin, remember this: God keeps no record of wrongs. Confess your sin and know that you have been forgiven. God will never bring it up again. You are clean before him. Ultimate forgiveness comes from God alone. You are not separated from him, a bridge has been built that crosses the chasm of sin. The bridge is Jesus himself. Do not give into despair. Out of the depths, cry out to God, and he will rescue you. This is his word, this is his guarantee.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
No Matter What
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior."
Habakkuk 317&18
It seems that when things go wrong, they go wrong in bunches. I have found that there are times when it seems anything that can break, will. Anything that can cause trouble, will. And anything that can cause inconvenience, will. All these things serve to sidetrack me from the really important things in my life; my relationship with God, my relationships with my wife, children and friends, and the work to which God has called me. The apostle Paul calls these distractions: "Light and momentary troubles." (2 Corinthians 4:17). This is really what they are. They seem big and complicated at the time, but in reality, they are just momentary.
The problem with these troublesome distractions is the fact that they capture our attention. The prophet Habakkuk enumerated all the things that had gone wrong. To an Old Testament farmer, these were huge things. If the fig tree had no fruit, if the grapes vines were not producing, if the cows and sheep were all dead, this spelled big problems for them. It was their livelihood. Without these foods, they would surely starve. When it seems that everything around you is falling apart, it is difficult to see anything else. I know because I have experienced it.
But when I realize the hope I have in Christ, it changes everything. I believe that when I pay more attention to the kingdom of heaven and less attention to the troublesome distractions, I will weather the storm and come out unscathed. It is really a matter of perspective. I can choose to look at it from a Godly perspective, or a victim's perspective. Whichever I choose is where I must live. So if I choose to be a victim, I will buckle under the weight of the circumstance. But if I will only remember my position in Christ, the struggle will be much more manageable because I know there is a greater life.
So I resolve to be joyful in God my Savior. I choose to do this, even through the troubles. The next time the car breaks, I will rejoice in God. The next time the kitchen faucet quits working, I will rejoice in my Savior. The next time things don't go my way, I will be joyful because of my God. After all, there is really only one constant in my life and he is God. Everything else is subject to change at any time. So even though everything around me fails, "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord." And I will do this...No matter what!
Habakkuk 317&18
It seems that when things go wrong, they go wrong in bunches. I have found that there are times when it seems anything that can break, will. Anything that can cause trouble, will. And anything that can cause inconvenience, will. All these things serve to sidetrack me from the really important things in my life; my relationship with God, my relationships with my wife, children and friends, and the work to which God has called me. The apostle Paul calls these distractions: "Light and momentary troubles." (2 Corinthians 4:17). This is really what they are. They seem big and complicated at the time, but in reality, they are just momentary.
The problem with these troublesome distractions is the fact that they capture our attention. The prophet Habakkuk enumerated all the things that had gone wrong. To an Old Testament farmer, these were huge things. If the fig tree had no fruit, if the grapes vines were not producing, if the cows and sheep were all dead, this spelled big problems for them. It was their livelihood. Without these foods, they would surely starve. When it seems that everything around you is falling apart, it is difficult to see anything else. I know because I have experienced it.
But when I realize the hope I have in Christ, it changes everything. I believe that when I pay more attention to the kingdom of heaven and less attention to the troublesome distractions, I will weather the storm and come out unscathed. It is really a matter of perspective. I can choose to look at it from a Godly perspective, or a victim's perspective. Whichever I choose is where I must live. So if I choose to be a victim, I will buckle under the weight of the circumstance. But if I will only remember my position in Christ, the struggle will be much more manageable because I know there is a greater life.
So I resolve to be joyful in God my Savior. I choose to do this, even through the troubles. The next time the car breaks, I will rejoice in God. The next time the kitchen faucet quits working, I will rejoice in my Savior. The next time things don't go my way, I will be joyful because of my God. After all, there is really only one constant in my life and he is God. Everything else is subject to change at any time. So even though everything around me fails, "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord." And I will do this...No matter what!
Friday, September 2, 2011
The Gift of Sharing
"We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."
1 Thessalonians 2:8
As Christians, you and I have been given a great commission. We are to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others in the world. There are many who have not heard the good news, and still others who have heard but have hardened their hearts toward Jesus. We have a responsibility to share this good news with them, through the words we speak, but also through our lives.
There are many seminars and teachings that instruct people in the proper way to share the gospel. They equip people with the proper scriptures to use and the proper answers to the different questions or objections they may encounter. But I think the best way to share the gospel is the way Paul shared it with the Thessalonians. He shared his life with them. Sharing the good news of Jesus is far more involved than just having a five minute conversation with a stranger. When Jesus commissioned us, he said that we were to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. This means that our responsibility does not end with the delivery of the message, this is only the beginning. We are to love people, give our lives to them, and raise them up in their new found faith.
We are the hands, feet, and mouth of Jesus in the world today. He has placed himself within us and given us everything we need to do what he did when he walked the earth. So the obvious motivation for us to do this, must be love. Jesus loved us first. This motivated him to come to the earth, give up his heavenly place, suffer and die. All this, he did because he loves us passionately. Therefore, we must love others with that same intensity. If we don't have love and compassion for others, we will never be willing to share the good news or give our lives for them.
What God is doing in your own life becomes the foundation for you to share with others. The book of Revelation tells us: "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." (Revelation 12:11). Not only are we empowered with the things God is doing in our lives daily, but these things defeat the enemy and spread the cause of Christ in the world. Evangelism is as natural as breathing if you simply share your life with others. They will be able to see Jesus in you, simply by watching. Then the questions will come, the opportunity will present itself, and you will put words to what they already see in you. This is how we share our lives and the love of Christ with others. The love that he has freely given us, we now give. Go out and share your life!
1 Thessalonians 2:8
As Christians, you and I have been given a great commission. We are to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others in the world. There are many who have not heard the good news, and still others who have heard but have hardened their hearts toward Jesus. We have a responsibility to share this good news with them, through the words we speak, but also through our lives.
There are many seminars and teachings that instruct people in the proper way to share the gospel. They equip people with the proper scriptures to use and the proper answers to the different questions or objections they may encounter. But I think the best way to share the gospel is the way Paul shared it with the Thessalonians. He shared his life with them. Sharing the good news of Jesus is far more involved than just having a five minute conversation with a stranger. When Jesus commissioned us, he said that we were to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. This means that our responsibility does not end with the delivery of the message, this is only the beginning. We are to love people, give our lives to them, and raise them up in their new found faith.
We are the hands, feet, and mouth of Jesus in the world today. He has placed himself within us and given us everything we need to do what he did when he walked the earth. So the obvious motivation for us to do this, must be love. Jesus loved us first. This motivated him to come to the earth, give up his heavenly place, suffer and die. All this, he did because he loves us passionately. Therefore, we must love others with that same intensity. If we don't have love and compassion for others, we will never be willing to share the good news or give our lives for them.
What God is doing in your own life becomes the foundation for you to share with others. The book of Revelation tells us: "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." (Revelation 12:11). Not only are we empowered with the things God is doing in our lives daily, but these things defeat the enemy and spread the cause of Christ in the world. Evangelism is as natural as breathing if you simply share your life with others. They will be able to see Jesus in you, simply by watching. Then the questions will come, the opportunity will present itself, and you will put words to what they already see in you. This is how we share our lives and the love of Christ with others. The love that he has freely given us, we now give. Go out and share your life!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Blessed Days
"The boy Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli. In those days, the word of the Lord was rare; There were not many visions."
1 Samuel 3:1
We live in the most blessed days of all history. As Christians, we are able to hear the word of God all the time. First, we have the Bible. We can learn from the Old Testament, all that God did for the nation of Israel as he raised them up to truly be his people. In the New Testament, we learn about a new way to live that was made possible through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We also learn that Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit, who now lives within us and empowers us to be ambassadors of Jesus.
Lest we ever forget or become less thankful for the incredible blessings we have, we should pay attention to the scripture referenced above. In the Old Testament, they depended on the prophets of God to bring his word to them. They had no written documents, so the history regarding God was passed down by word of mouth from generation to generations. Fortunately, the Israelites were very adept at this, and the accounts of God's interventions were accurately kept. But they had no direct communication with God. If there were no prophets available, there was no word from God. In fact, between the Old Testament times and the coming of Christ, there was 400 years when there was no prophets in the land. There was silence.
I know that I talk about this a lot, but I want us to realize just how blessed we are. Jesus changed everything. He was no prophet, he was much greater than that. He spoke the words of God because he was God. Everything he said was right and true. Through his death and resurrection, he ushered in the days of the Holy Spirit. From that time on, all believing Christians have had God resident within them in the person of the Holy Spirit. He is not a representation of God, he is not a piece of God, he is God. Therefore, the fullness of God lives in us. We can communicate with God anytime we want. And we can be assured that he will talk to us.
I cannot imagine what it would be like to believe in God and follow him, yet never hear anything directly from him. Thankfully, those days are over. You and I live in such a glorious time that we need not fear silence from God. My point is this; be thankful for the days in which we live. There may be things we would like to complain about, but we live in a time in history that the people of old would have loved to experience. We don't have to wait for the prophet, we don't have to fear silence. God is with us...and he is speaking.
1 Samuel 3:1
We live in the most blessed days of all history. As Christians, we are able to hear the word of God all the time. First, we have the Bible. We can learn from the Old Testament, all that God did for the nation of Israel as he raised them up to truly be his people. In the New Testament, we learn about a new way to live that was made possible through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We also learn that Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit, who now lives within us and empowers us to be ambassadors of Jesus.
Lest we ever forget or become less thankful for the incredible blessings we have, we should pay attention to the scripture referenced above. In the Old Testament, they depended on the prophets of God to bring his word to them. They had no written documents, so the history regarding God was passed down by word of mouth from generation to generations. Fortunately, the Israelites were very adept at this, and the accounts of God's interventions were accurately kept. But they had no direct communication with God. If there were no prophets available, there was no word from God. In fact, between the Old Testament times and the coming of Christ, there was 400 years when there was no prophets in the land. There was silence.
I know that I talk about this a lot, but I want us to realize just how blessed we are. Jesus changed everything. He was no prophet, he was much greater than that. He spoke the words of God because he was God. Everything he said was right and true. Through his death and resurrection, he ushered in the days of the Holy Spirit. From that time on, all believing Christians have had God resident within them in the person of the Holy Spirit. He is not a representation of God, he is not a piece of God, he is God. Therefore, the fullness of God lives in us. We can communicate with God anytime we want. And we can be assured that he will talk to us.
I cannot imagine what it would be like to believe in God and follow him, yet never hear anything directly from him. Thankfully, those days are over. You and I live in such a glorious time that we need not fear silence from God. My point is this; be thankful for the days in which we live. There may be things we would like to complain about, but we live in a time in history that the people of old would have loved to experience. We don't have to wait for the prophet, we don't have to fear silence. God is with us...and he is speaking.
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