To “throw yourself into something” is to do something with a lot of energy and enthusiasm, even implying impulsive or reckless abandonment. Do you throw yourself into things without thinking? Or, perhaps you are like me, more cautious by nature?
Twice during the three years he spent with Jesus, Peter took an unanticipated plunge in the Sea of Galilee. The first time is the more legendary—the only disciple to step out of the boat and walk on water. But even then, as impetuous as he seemed, he first asked Jesus for permission. (Mark 14:28-29) Peter’s second water episode with Jesus is less celebrated.
When the disciples hadn't caught any fish all night, Jesus (they didn’t know it was him!) told them to cast their net on the other side. When the catch was overwhelming, they knew it was Jesus. While the other disciples respectfully returned to shore by boat, Peter “threw himself” into the water, and swam. (John 21)
Peter’s passionate response reflects his utter need. Is it possible that after his failure in denying Jesus, Peter desperately wanted reassurance of His love and acceptance? As never before, Peter felt his need for a Savior. In that moment nothing else mattered but getting to Jesus.
Maybe it’s time we “throw caution to the wind,” and, like Peter, “throw ourselves” at the feet of Jesus!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Why Does God Put Difficult People in Our Lives?
As a training specialist with the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, I conducted a course for managers called “Dealing with Difficult People.” It was always well-attended! As you know, it's not just a workplace problem—all relationships can be hard at some time.
The workplace training put emphasis on the “difficult person" and very little on the manager’s attitude or feelings toward that person. Why? because it’s easier to focus on someone else’s problems than to take responsibility for your own. Jesus (who dealt with lots of difficult people) confronted that attitude when He said: “why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, `Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye. (Lk. 6:41-42 NLT).
Before you can even begin ‘dealing’ with a person who may be difficult for you, you must ask God WHY He put the person in your life. Don’t presume God has engaged you to be His “agent of change” for that person. It may be God has employed that person to be His “agent of change” for you! Through your negative reaction to that person, God is revealing your need for change—for “heart surgery”—to fashion in you a heart of love, compassion, kindness, and forbearance (Col. 3:10-12).
As you cultivate God’s perspective (seeing through His eyes) He will guard you from a critical spirit. When you look at yourself first (Gal 6:2) and on what God is doing in your heart, the more humbly you will approach the weaknesses of others. Only then are you qualified to be God’s “agent of change.”
The workplace training put emphasis on the “difficult person" and very little on the manager’s attitude or feelings toward that person. Why? because it’s easier to focus on someone else’s problems than to take responsibility for your own. Jesus (who dealt with lots of difficult people) confronted that attitude when He said: “why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, `Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye. (Lk. 6:41-42 NLT).
Before you can even begin ‘dealing’ with a person who may be difficult for you, you must ask God WHY He put the person in your life. Don’t presume God has engaged you to be His “agent of change” for that person. It may be God has employed that person to be His “agent of change” for you! Through your negative reaction to that person, God is revealing your need for change—for “heart surgery”—to fashion in you a heart of love, compassion, kindness, and forbearance (Col. 3:10-12).
As you cultivate God’s perspective (seeing through His eyes) He will guard you from a critical spirit. When you look at yourself first (Gal 6:2) and on what God is doing in your heart, the more humbly you will approach the weaknesses of others. Only then are you qualified to be God’s “agent of change.”
Thursday, August 27, 2009
How Many Friends Do YOU Have on Facebook?
In this week’s USA Today, an article entitled “Are Students Today More Narcissistic?” caught my attention. In a survey on “narcissism,” two-thirds of college students said their generation uses social networking sites such as MySpace, Facebook and Twitter for self-promotion and attention-seeking. According to the researchers, the survey shows a substantial increase in narcissism from Generation X.
While I have no doubt the Millennial generation has perfected its own style of self-expression, they are not unique. My generation (Baby Boomers) had its own excesses in self-expression and attention grabbing. Back in the 60’s, everyone must have thought the “cult” of self-expression had reached its zenith, with its unrestrained self-gratification and hedonism.
Come to think of it, the human condition hasn’t changed much, has it? From the time of Babel, self-serving, narcissistic men have been seeking attention and promotion.
Using today’s networking jargon, the Genesis 3 account might go something like this: In the Garden there were two social networking systems—one was called “God-Promotion,” the other “Self-Promotion.” Satan said to Eve: “if you sign up for my “self-promoting” network, you will be able to control your destiny—you will be popular; many people will pay attention to you.” Well, you know which one she chose!
Think about this: Christians began “social networking” 2,000 years ago. By a network of brothers and sisters, an organism called the Body of Christ! And its purpose was to promote Jesus!
(BTW, how many times a day do you check to see if your friends have written on your wall?!)
While I have no doubt the Millennial generation has perfected its own style of self-expression, they are not unique. My generation (Baby Boomers) had its own excesses in self-expression and attention grabbing. Back in the 60’s, everyone must have thought the “cult” of self-expression had reached its zenith, with its unrestrained self-gratification and hedonism.
Come to think of it, the human condition hasn’t changed much, has it? From the time of Babel, self-serving, narcissistic men have been seeking attention and promotion.
Using today’s networking jargon, the Genesis 3 account might go something like this: In the Garden there were two social networking systems—one was called “God-Promotion,” the other “Self-Promotion.” Satan said to Eve: “if you sign up for my “self-promoting” network, you will be able to control your destiny—you will be popular; many people will pay attention to you.” Well, you know which one she chose!
Think about this: Christians began “social networking” 2,000 years ago. By a network of brothers and sisters, an organism called the Body of Christ! And its purpose was to promote Jesus!
(BTW, how many times a day do you check to see if your friends have written on your wall?!)
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Abraham was Good at Making Mistakes—Yet He is Called the Father of our Faith
I am so glad to know that God can take someone like me who has made many mistakes and still accomplish His perfect plan for my life. I thought I had failed so many times, it would be impossible. But I have learned that God is not hindered by my failure. Look at Abraham’s life. It was full of serious mistakes that had huge consequences; yet he is called the father of our faith (Gal. 4:12).
God told Abraham to leave his home and his family. But he took along his ailing father and nephew Lot. As a result, he was delayed in Heran until his father died. Later, his relationship with Lot became a source of serious conflict. Abraham also erred by going down to Egypt during the famine (he was afraid). It was from there, he brought back Sarah’s handmaid Hagar; and without Hagar there never would have been an Ishmael, who is the father of the Arabs, the archenemies of Israel to this day.
Our mistakes do have consequences. But however horrible you may think your mistakes are, you can begin again with God. No matter how many times you have tried and failed, you can still experience new life (Ro. 6:4). And God can still accomplish His plans for and through you. Zac Poonen says “even if you have made a thousand new beginnings in the past and have come to failure, you can still make the 1001st new beginning today.”
By way of my mistakes, I have learned an important principle: my failures (like Adam’s failure in the Garden) are the beginning of a new work of God’s grace for me—they precede God’s greater opportunities. Has your past failure made you afraid to start again? Faith says “God is greater than your mistakes!” Look at Abraham! He is the revered 'father' of the Jews, the Christians, and the Muslims.
God told Abraham to leave his home and his family. But he took along his ailing father and nephew Lot. As a result, he was delayed in Heran until his father died. Later, his relationship with Lot became a source of serious conflict. Abraham also erred by going down to Egypt during the famine (he was afraid). It was from there, he brought back Sarah’s handmaid Hagar; and without Hagar there never would have been an Ishmael, who is the father of the Arabs, the archenemies of Israel to this day.
Our mistakes do have consequences. But however horrible you may think your mistakes are, you can begin again with God. No matter how many times you have tried and failed, you can still experience new life (Ro. 6:4). And God can still accomplish His plans for and through you. Zac Poonen says “even if you have made a thousand new beginnings in the past and have come to failure, you can still make the 1001st new beginning today.”
By way of my mistakes, I have learned an important principle: my failures (like Adam’s failure in the Garden) are the beginning of a new work of God’s grace for me—they precede God’s greater opportunities. Has your past failure made you afraid to start again? Faith says “God is greater than your mistakes!” Look at Abraham! He is the revered 'father' of the Jews, the Christians, and the Muslims.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Where Do You Go in Your Time of Need?
In your time of need, you may call a friend, head for the gym, go to the mall, or raid the refrigerator. While these do indeed provide some immediate comfort, in the long run, they do not. For this reason, the writer of Hebrews exhorts us: “Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in TIME OF NEED” (4:16).
The writer declares that we need to go to the “throne of grace” in our “time of need.” We all know we are saved by grace. But do you know the other side of God’s grace—grace that empowers you to live victoriously, joyfully, and peacefully?
What is the “time of need” when you need to go to the "throne of grace?"
First, we need to go to the throne of grace when we have sinned. The problem the writer anticipates is that after we have sinned, we feel a distance from God because we know He is Holy. We have no confidence that we are worthy to go to Him. But if our confidence is in Jesus, we will draw near. If our confidence is placed (really misplaced) in ourselves, we will withdraw. If you turn away from God when you have sinned, it is a pretty good indication your confidence was in yourself!
Second, we need to go to the throne of grace when we are tempted to sin. There is never a time that is more necessary to draw near to the throne of grace. There we find the empowering grace that delivers from temptation. There we find confidence; there we grow in confidence.
And finally, can you think of a time when you don’t need His grace? We should learn to go to the “throne of grace” and stay there—knowing our “time of need” is ALL the time. If we remain at the “throne of grace”—moment by moment—we will always have enough grace to help in "time of need."
The writer declares that we need to go to the “throne of grace” in our “time of need.” We all know we are saved by grace. But do you know the other side of God’s grace—grace that empowers you to live victoriously, joyfully, and peacefully?
What is the “time of need” when you need to go to the "throne of grace?"
First, we need to go to the throne of grace when we have sinned. The problem the writer anticipates is that after we have sinned, we feel a distance from God because we know He is Holy. We have no confidence that we are worthy to go to Him. But if our confidence is in Jesus, we will draw near. If our confidence is placed (really misplaced) in ourselves, we will withdraw. If you turn away from God when you have sinned, it is a pretty good indication your confidence was in yourself!
Second, we need to go to the throne of grace when we are tempted to sin. There is never a time that is more necessary to draw near to the throne of grace. There we find the empowering grace that delivers from temptation. There we find confidence; there we grow in confidence.
And finally, can you think of a time when you don’t need His grace? We should learn to go to the “throne of grace” and stay there—knowing our “time of need” is ALL the time. If we remain at the “throne of grace”—moment by moment—we will always have enough grace to help in "time of need."
Monday, August 24, 2009
We have a Blind Spot Detection System!
The term “blind spot” is used in ‘automobile driving’ language to describe an area of the road that cannot be seen through the rear-view or side mirrors. Car manufacturers have developed something called Blind Spot Detection (BSD) which uses radar sensors mounted at the side of the car to reveal the ‘blind’ zone. Of course we also use the term “blind spot” metaphorically to mean a person cannot see themselves clearly. These “blind spots” can be due to ignorance, denial, or prejudice. Maybe we all need something like BSDs to see where we have blind spots, because as we look back (through our rear view mirrors) we are unable to see how people, and our reactions to them, affect us presently.
Paul had a giant blind spot (as did all the Pharisees): he was unable to see that Jesus was the fulfillment of the Old Testament promise of the Messiah. Ironically, Paul had to be struck blind on the road to Damascus so that he could see Jesus for Who He really was!
I wonder if Paul remembered the words of Jesus: “I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind” (John 9:39). Was he among those Pharisees who heard Jesus’ words, and asked: “Are you saying we are blind?” During the three days Paul could no longer "see," he experienced a paradigm shift, reexamining the prophetic Scriptures that revealed Jesus to be the Son of God.
We should not overlook the implication of Paul’s experience. Admittedly, we have blind spots—we are unable to “see” Jesus as He is: the glorified and risen Lord who has called us into a life-giving relationship. Knowing the Ephesian believers were unable to ‘see’ Jesus in all His glory, Paul prayed “that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you will know the hope of His calling and the riches of the glory of His inheritance…” (Eph. 1:18). As we read and meditate on God's Word, let us pray for this enlightenment (our "blind spot detection" system) that we might truly “see” Jesus.
Paul had a giant blind spot (as did all the Pharisees): he was unable to see that Jesus was the fulfillment of the Old Testament promise of the Messiah. Ironically, Paul had to be struck blind on the road to Damascus so that he could see Jesus for Who He really was!
I wonder if Paul remembered the words of Jesus: “I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind” (John 9:39). Was he among those Pharisees who heard Jesus’ words, and asked: “Are you saying we are blind?” During the three days Paul could no longer "see," he experienced a paradigm shift, reexamining the prophetic Scriptures that revealed Jesus to be the Son of God.
We should not overlook the implication of Paul’s experience. Admittedly, we have blind spots—we are unable to “see” Jesus as He is: the glorified and risen Lord who has called us into a life-giving relationship. Knowing the Ephesian believers were unable to ‘see’ Jesus in all His glory, Paul prayed “that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you will know the hope of His calling and the riches of the glory of His inheritance…” (Eph. 1:18). As we read and meditate on God's Word, let us pray for this enlightenment (our "blind spot detection" system) that we might truly “see” Jesus.
Friday, August 21, 2009
How to "Live Happily Ever AFTER"
Whoever said “there are two things in life you can count on: death and taxes,” forgot about another sure thing: trials! This side of Heaven, each of us will go through trials. But there is a purpose to our trials: they are for TESTING our faith. And though tests are a normal part of life, still we are surprised and disturbed when they show up, intrusively and unannounced! And while in the middle of one, we imagine it will last forever, but it will not; there is always an AFTER!
“…no one should be disturbed by these trials; you know quite well that we were destined for them …For it has been granted to us, on behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for Him…so don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you…knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance…you need endurance so that AFTER you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise…of course, we know that no trial is enjoyable while it is happening—it is painful, but AFTERWARD there will be a harvest of peace and righteousness for those who have been trained by it… therefore, AFTER you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.”
(Paraphrased from 1 Thess. 3:3: Phil. 1:29; 1 Peter 4:12; James 1:3; Heb. 12:11; 1 Peter 5:10; Heb. 10:36)
Let us pray for God’s strength to endure until He brings us into our AFTER. (Maybe we really can live happily ever after!!)
“…no one should be disturbed by these trials; you know quite well that we were destined for them …For it has been granted to us, on behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for Him…so don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you…knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance…you need endurance so that AFTER you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise…of course, we know that no trial is enjoyable while it is happening—it is painful, but AFTERWARD there will be a harvest of peace and righteousness for those who have been trained by it… therefore, AFTER you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.”
(Paraphrased from 1 Thess. 3:3: Phil. 1:29; 1 Peter 4:12; James 1:3; Heb. 12:11; 1 Peter 5:10; Heb. 10:36)
Let us pray for God’s strength to endure until He brings us into our AFTER. (Maybe we really can live happily ever after!!)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Desperate People Know They Need God
I am sitting here reading a missionary newsletter article about a squatters' community, called West Beach, in the Dominican Republic. West Beach is a desperately poor neighborhood where tiny shacks built of rough concrete blocks, salvaged lumber, and rusty tin sheets are crowded side-by-side along a polluted waterfront. The streets are dirt, or mud when it rains. There is no electricity. Each house is not more than ten feet wide and twenty feet deep with a primitive latrine out back. Prostitution and drug abuse fuel the local economy. Children are sent out to work each day to help poor families survive. Many do not have birth certificates: they are "non persons," deprived of government services.
When the gospel is presented to these distressed people, they are unconstrained in their response! They are starving for meaning in life. Not only do they POSSESS nothing, they have been told they ARE nothing. That God loves them enough to send Jesus to give them eternal life is more than they can imagine. Should it surprise us they are desperate for God’s love?
In America, even the poorest people have hot and cold running water, indoor plumbing, and a color television set. And the average middle class family has at least one secure income, medical insurance, a 3-bedroom house, and two cars in the garage. With the abundance of worldly comfort, it is no wonder America is so spiritually impoverished! Jesus said it was more difficult for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. Those who find their self-worth by comfort and prosperity are never desperate for God—“full” of possessions, spiritual appetite is quenched.
If you had nothing in this life, and if you had to live in the squalor of West Beach in the Dominican Republic, would you be more desperate for God than you “currently” are? If your honest answer is ‘yes,’ maybe you need to make a trip to West Beach with me. Evidently they “possess” something we don’t! A spirit of poverty and holy desperation!
When the gospel is presented to these distressed people, they are unconstrained in their response! They are starving for meaning in life. Not only do they POSSESS nothing, they have been told they ARE nothing. That God loves them enough to send Jesus to give them eternal life is more than they can imagine. Should it surprise us they are desperate for God’s love?
In America, even the poorest people have hot and cold running water, indoor plumbing, and a color television set. And the average middle class family has at least one secure income, medical insurance, a 3-bedroom house, and two cars in the garage. With the abundance of worldly comfort, it is no wonder America is so spiritually impoverished! Jesus said it was more difficult for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. Those who find their self-worth by comfort and prosperity are never desperate for God—“full” of possessions, spiritual appetite is quenched.
If you had nothing in this life, and if you had to live in the squalor of West Beach in the Dominican Republic, would you be more desperate for God than you “currently” are? If your honest answer is ‘yes,’ maybe you need to make a trip to West Beach with me. Evidently they “possess” something we don’t! A spirit of poverty and holy desperation!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The Highway to Heaven Passes through the Valley of Tears
While living for two years in the Muslim world, I was impressed by their devotion, albeit misdirected, to the daily prayer ritual. How many Christians would cease all activity five times a day to kneel and pray! More to the point of this teaching, a devout Muslim also demonstrates his faith by a pilgrimage to Mecca (called Hajj). Every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it is obliged to do a Hajj at least once in his lifetime.
The concept of pilgrimage is not unique to Islam. The Hebrews journeyed once a year to their city of worship—Jerusalem: a difficult trip for many through valley and desert. The Psalmist writes: “Blessed are those who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Tears, they make it a place of blessing…they go from strength to strength till each appears before God in Zion.” (Ps. 84:5-7)
Israel’s first such pilgrimage to “Zion” occurred after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. Their 40-year journey was their ‘valley of tears,’ as they grumbled and complained—some even wanting to return to Egypt. But before we judge them too harshly, we should ask ourselves this question: How quickly do we complain when God takes us through a valley of tears?
Israel’s journey from Egypt to Canaan teaches us an important lesson: the pilgrimage to God’s Promised Land passes through a wilderness. After you hear God’s voice promising to bless you, don’t be surprised to find that what happens next is the opposite of what you expected. It was no mistake: the Bible says God “led” them into the Wilderness.
Don’t be surprised by the valleys you will encounter on your “highway to Heaven.” Like the faithful Hebrews, set your heart to endure the journey. God promises you won’t faint along the way, but will actually find the pilgrimage a blessing as you go from “strength to strength.”
The concept of pilgrimage is not unique to Islam. The Hebrews journeyed once a year to their city of worship—Jerusalem: a difficult trip for many through valley and desert. The Psalmist writes: “Blessed are those who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Tears, they make it a place of blessing…they go from strength to strength till each appears before God in Zion.” (Ps. 84:5-7)
Israel’s first such pilgrimage to “Zion” occurred after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. Their 40-year journey was their ‘valley of tears,’ as they grumbled and complained—some even wanting to return to Egypt. But before we judge them too harshly, we should ask ourselves this question: How quickly do we complain when God takes us through a valley of tears?
Israel’s journey from Egypt to Canaan teaches us an important lesson: the pilgrimage to God’s Promised Land passes through a wilderness. After you hear God’s voice promising to bless you, don’t be surprised to find that what happens next is the opposite of what you expected. It was no mistake: the Bible says God “led” them into the Wilderness.
Don’t be surprised by the valleys you will encounter on your “highway to Heaven.” Like the faithful Hebrews, set your heart to endure the journey. God promises you won’t faint along the way, but will actually find the pilgrimage a blessing as you go from “strength to strength.”
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Would You Like Fries With That?
I love the book of Hebrews. But it’s a not an easy read. Not what you’d call the milk of the Word; it’s definitely what Paul meant by “solid food” (1 Cor. 3:3). However, in chapter 5, the writer reproves the Hebrew Christians as yet being like babies, still drinking milk, and unable to digest solid food. Further explaining, he says; “by this time you ought to be teachers instead of needing someone to teach you…” (5:12-14).
Beginning with mother’s milk—with all the necessary nutrients for early life—babies must advance to solid food for development of teeth, bones, muscles, and in particular, the digestive system itself.
A relevant comparison for today is that most Americans are so accustomed to eating processed foods (Fast Foods, frozen foods, canned foods), they are nutritionally deprived and digestively challenged. The over-processing of food has made digesting almost irrelevant.
Likewise, too many Christians are passive pew-sitters & radio-listeners, receiving digest-able teaching from someone who has spent hours chewing on the meat of the Word so they might receive it. But all the real work of masticating has been done for them. The result: they are unable to digest and absorb into their spiritual ‘blood stream’ anything but the simplest truths: their spiritual growth is stunted.
Let us be careful we do not get lulled into passivity by our pastors’ sermons, our great TV and radio teachers, and a plethora of good books, and forget how to feed ourselves the Word. “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15)
How’s your appetite? Are ready for a good meal? (Skip the fries!)
Beginning with mother’s milk—with all the necessary nutrients for early life—babies must advance to solid food for development of teeth, bones, muscles, and in particular, the digestive system itself.
A relevant comparison for today is that most Americans are so accustomed to eating processed foods (Fast Foods, frozen foods, canned foods), they are nutritionally deprived and digestively challenged. The over-processing of food has made digesting almost irrelevant.
Likewise, too many Christians are passive pew-sitters & radio-listeners, receiving digest-able teaching from someone who has spent hours chewing on the meat of the Word so they might receive it. But all the real work of masticating has been done for them. The result: they are unable to digest and absorb into their spiritual ‘blood stream’ anything but the simplest truths: their spiritual growth is stunted.
Let us be careful we do not get lulled into passivity by our pastors’ sermons, our great TV and radio teachers, and a plethora of good books, and forget how to feed ourselves the Word. “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15)
How’s your appetite? Are ready for a good meal? (Skip the fries!)
Monday, August 17, 2009
Who Let the Dogs Out!
Today I’d like to reflect on “dogs” and “doors.”
After the Fall of Adam, Cain’s murder of Abel is the next recorded sin in the Bible. Cain was angry at God, but God, in His mercy, warns Cain “sin is crouching [or lying] at the door” and if he does not repent, it will master him.
“Sin is crouching at the door” is a great word picture. The phrase brings to mind the familiar image of a dog. Years ago, I had an old English sheep dog that would lie by the front door waiting for me to take him out. He wasn’t just passively lying, he was ‘crouching,’ ready to pounce the moment the door was opened. However, he was not the master; I was. And the door remained closed until I opened it. Once the door was opened, he was out the door and "in control" (or should I say "out of control").
Is the Holy Spirit telling us sin is like a DOG lying in wait, ready to master us? If so, the DOOR is the opening for sin and Satan. Paul says we should NOT give an “opening” or a “place” to the devil. (Eph. 4:27).
Even more to the point of today’s analogy, Paul says, “Beware of the dogs” (Phil. 3:2). In Paul’s day, packs of wild dogs roamed the streets scavenging for food—they would even attack a human. Paul is comparing “dogs” to “scavengers” roaming the Church to disturb the peace. This analogy is not too dissimilar from the “prowling lions…seeking someone to devour” that Peter warns of (1 Pet. 5:8). In both analogies, we are warned of their intentions to harm and/or master us.
When you are feeling irritated, frustrated, or angry, remember that “sin is crouching at the door.” So be careful. Don’t let it master you. Don’t let the dogs out!
After the Fall of Adam, Cain’s murder of Abel is the next recorded sin in the Bible. Cain was angry at God, but God, in His mercy, warns Cain “sin is crouching [or lying] at the door” and if he does not repent, it will master him.
“Sin is crouching at the door” is a great word picture. The phrase brings to mind the familiar image of a dog. Years ago, I had an old English sheep dog that would lie by the front door waiting for me to take him out. He wasn’t just passively lying, he was ‘crouching,’ ready to pounce the moment the door was opened. However, he was not the master; I was. And the door remained closed until I opened it. Once the door was opened, he was out the door and "in control" (or should I say "out of control").
Is the Holy Spirit telling us sin is like a DOG lying in wait, ready to master us? If so, the DOOR is the opening for sin and Satan. Paul says we should NOT give an “opening” or a “place” to the devil. (Eph. 4:27).
Even more to the point of today’s analogy, Paul says, “Beware of the dogs” (Phil. 3:2). In Paul’s day, packs of wild dogs roamed the streets scavenging for food—they would even attack a human. Paul is comparing “dogs” to “scavengers” roaming the Church to disturb the peace. This analogy is not too dissimilar from the “prowling lions…seeking someone to devour” that Peter warns of (1 Pet. 5:8). In both analogies, we are warned of their intentions to harm and/or master us.
When you are feeling irritated, frustrated, or angry, remember that “sin is crouching at the door.” So be careful. Don’t let it master you. Don’t let the dogs out!
Friday, August 14, 2009
What’s in Your Bucket?
Years ago I met the senior pastor of a large church in Houston, Texas, Wallace Henley. Wallace grew up on a farm. And in his book, he presents the following analogy, comparing hearts to buckets.
In any farmyard, there are lots of buckets around—buckets full of ‘feed,’ buckets full of bolts, buckets full of dirt, buckets full of garbage... And when you bump into and/or kick over a bucket, whatever is ‘in’ the bucket is what will spill out. Wallace says people are like those farmyard buckets. When you meet (colloquially, we might say “run into” or “bump into”) a friend or acquaintance, whatever is in them will spill out. If they are anxious or perplexed about something, as soon as you begin talking to them, the thing making them anxious will spill out. If they are happy and excited, it will pour out. So if you listen to what spills out of a person, you will know what he is “full of."
Jesus said “For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45). If you want to find out what's in someone's heart, just listen to his words.
But here’s something more personally helpful. If you want to know what is in your own heart, just listen to your words. Have you ever left a conversation with someone and immediately wondered why you brought up a subject you had no intention of talking about? It was in your heart! Pay attention to what spills out of your mouth; it will help you to discern the condition of your heart.
Listening to your own words is key for you to “Watch over your heart with all diligence” (Prov. 4:23).
In any farmyard, there are lots of buckets around—buckets full of ‘feed,’ buckets full of bolts, buckets full of dirt, buckets full of garbage... And when you bump into and/or kick over a bucket, whatever is ‘in’ the bucket is what will spill out. Wallace says people are like those farmyard buckets. When you meet (colloquially, we might say “run into” or “bump into”) a friend or acquaintance, whatever is in them will spill out. If they are anxious or perplexed about something, as soon as you begin talking to them, the thing making them anxious will spill out. If they are happy and excited, it will pour out. So if you listen to what spills out of a person, you will know what he is “full of."
Jesus said “For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45). If you want to find out what's in someone's heart, just listen to his words.
But here’s something more personally helpful. If you want to know what is in your own heart, just listen to your words. Have you ever left a conversation with someone and immediately wondered why you brought up a subject you had no intention of talking about? It was in your heart! Pay attention to what spills out of your mouth; it will help you to discern the condition of your heart.
Listening to your own words is key for you to “Watch over your heart with all diligence” (Prov. 4:23).
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Are Your Watches Working?
How could my parents have known when they named me Gregory (my middle name) how prophetic it would be!? The name Gregory derives from the Greek word “gregoreo” meaning to “watch” or “be alert.” The Lord has given me a pastor’s heart as one who watches over the sheep. And through the gift of teaching, He has made me alert to deceptive teachings that deviate from sound doctrine.
In ancient times, a watchman would stand at his post on the high towers of the city walls, looking for any hostile advances. Committed to being alert and awake, he was poised to sound the alarm, ready to warn of approaching danger. (Habakkuk 2:1).
Perhaps you're thinking that the ministry of watchman position disappeared with the ancient prophets. The fact is that the New Testament is full of exhortations for watchfulness, soberness, and alertness.
In Jesus' warnings of the end-times (Mat. 24-25), He used the word “watch” or “ be alert” (same Greek word) six times. Even more pointed, Jesus’ last words to the Disciples were “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation” (Mat. 26:41). Paul admonished: “Let us not sleep as others do, but let us watch and be sober” (1 Thes. 5:6).
What should you and I be watching for today?
There are three "WATCHES" : 1) watch over your souls (Prov. 4:23); 2) watch for false Christs and their false teachings (Mat. 24:4-5; 1 Tim, 4:1); 3) watch for His return (Mat. 25:42).
Are your watches working?
In ancient times, a watchman would stand at his post on the high towers of the city walls, looking for any hostile advances. Committed to being alert and awake, he was poised to sound the alarm, ready to warn of approaching danger. (Habakkuk 2:1).
Perhaps you're thinking that the ministry of watchman position disappeared with the ancient prophets. The fact is that the New Testament is full of exhortations for watchfulness, soberness, and alertness.
In Jesus' warnings of the end-times (Mat. 24-25), He used the word “watch” or “ be alert” (same Greek word) six times. Even more pointed, Jesus’ last words to the Disciples were “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation” (Mat. 26:41). Paul admonished: “Let us not sleep as others do, but let us watch and be sober” (1 Thes. 5:6).
What should you and I be watching for today?
There are three "WATCHES" : 1) watch over your souls (Prov. 4:23); 2) watch for false Christs and their false teachings (Mat. 24:4-5; 1 Tim, 4:1); 3) watch for His return (Mat. 25:42).
Are your watches working?
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Are You Asking the Right Questions?
When my children were young, they asked lots of questions. That’s very normal. God made children to be inquisitive. It is how they learn, and how they develop mentally, psychologically, socially, and spiritually. When Jesus was 12, He spent three days in the synagogue, sitting in the midst of the teachers, asking questions (Luke 2:46).
My counselees always had lots of questions. Their questions were mostly the “what’s” and “why’s,” that is, “what” is happening to me and “why” is it happening? Sometimes, though, their question was more of a “why me?” than a legitimate question. My job was to help them see, by faith, what GOD was doing and why. When we truly want to know “what” God is doing in any given circumstance, and “why” God is either doing or allowing something in our lives, it is quite appropriate to ask God. “If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you...” (James 1:5).
The prophet Habakkuk was perplexed about what God was doing in the life of Israel. The entire book contains God’s answer, explaining His purposes and ultimate goodness. The prophet knew he was lacking in understanding so he asks his question, knowing full well the answer will bring clarity. He says “I will watch to see what He will say to me, and what I will answer when I am corrected" (Habakkuk 2:1).
When you ask God your “what” or “why” questions, check you heart. Make sure it's not just a veiled complaint. Ask in faith, believing He will answer. James says, “You do not have [your answer] because you do not ask” (4:3).
My counselees always had lots of questions. Their questions were mostly the “what’s” and “why’s,” that is, “what” is happening to me and “why” is it happening? Sometimes, though, their question was more of a “why me?” than a legitimate question. My job was to help them see, by faith, what GOD was doing and why. When we truly want to know “what” God is doing in any given circumstance, and “why” God is either doing or allowing something in our lives, it is quite appropriate to ask God. “If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you...” (James 1:5).
The prophet Habakkuk was perplexed about what God was doing in the life of Israel. The entire book contains God’s answer, explaining His purposes and ultimate goodness. The prophet knew he was lacking in understanding so he asks his question, knowing full well the answer will bring clarity. He says “I will watch to see what He will say to me, and what I will answer when I am corrected" (Habakkuk 2:1).
When you ask God your “what” or “why” questions, check you heart. Make sure it's not just a veiled complaint. Ask in faith, believing He will answer. James says, “You do not have [your answer] because you do not ask” (4:3).
Monday, August 10, 2009
Are You Dying to Live?
In my last post, I made the statement that I am “heavenly,” no longer defined by “earth’s” standards. I sincerely apologize if anyone read any pride into that statement. In my defense, I did NOT say I ‘act’ like a heavenly person (ask my wife or children about that!), only that I know my position in Christ is a heavenly one. We have been born from above (1 John 5:1) and are told to set our minds on things above (Col. 3:2). The question that remains is: how do we live a more ‘heavenly’ life, as those who have been raised up (resurrected) with Christ, while we are yet living in this earthly realm?
Certainly, every serious Christian wants to experience more of Jesus’ power, more of His love, more faith, more patience, more obedience, more purity—Paul calls it ‘resurrection’ life (Ro. 6:4). But, like Jesus, we cannot be raised up without first dying. We cannot experience “resurrection life” until we have died to the old self, (Ro. 6:6), died to the power of sin (6:11), and died to the world’s strong influence over us (Gal. 6:14). And this death is the greatest freedom anyone can ever know (Ro. 6:7).
After all, what can you do to a dead man? You cannot offend a dead man. A dead man knows no fear: there is nothing that can threaten him. A dead man can’t get angry, anxious or depressed—or need therapy!
Those who ‘know’ they have been crucified with Christ (Gal 2:20) will be the freest persons in this world: they ‘rise above’ every earthly trial and affliction. They are “over-comers” (Ro. 8:29).
One of today’s most popular preachers tells his congregation you have to have a "never say die" attitude if you are going to receive the promises of God. I find that so ironic that he has chosen the phrase “never say die” because that is exactly what has to happen if you are going to live in the realm of Jesus’ resurrected life and experience power from on high!
Certainly, every serious Christian wants to experience more of Jesus’ power, more of His love, more faith, more patience, more obedience, more purity—Paul calls it ‘resurrection’ life (Ro. 6:4). But, like Jesus, we cannot be raised up without first dying. We cannot experience “resurrection life” until we have died to the old self, (Ro. 6:6), died to the power of sin (6:11), and died to the world’s strong influence over us (Gal. 6:14). And this death is the greatest freedom anyone can ever know (Ro. 6:7).
After all, what can you do to a dead man? You cannot offend a dead man. A dead man knows no fear: there is nothing that can threaten him. A dead man can’t get angry, anxious or depressed—or need therapy!
Those who ‘know’ they have been crucified with Christ (Gal 2:20) will be the freest persons in this world: they ‘rise above’ every earthly trial and affliction. They are “over-comers” (Ro. 8:29).
One of today’s most popular preachers tells his congregation you have to have a "never say die" attitude if you are going to receive the promises of God. I find that so ironic that he has chosen the phrase “never say die” because that is exactly what has to happen if you are going to live in the realm of Jesus’ resurrected life and experience power from on high!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Cash for Clunkers: “You Are What You Drive!”
While watching Cable news over the weekend, I couldn’t believe my ears. In arguing the merits of the “Cash for Clunkers” program, one commentator asked another “Isn’t it irresponsible for the government to encourage people who have just lost or may lose their job to buy a brand new car?” The other responded “I think it would give someone a better self-image to have a brand new car to drive, especially a nicer car, like a BMW, they might not afford without help from the government ($4500 trade in for a ‘clunker’). “After all,” the commentator said, “You are what you drive.”
I shouldn’t have been surprised; after all, isn’t this how “earthlings” define their self-worth—by what they drive, what they wear, what they do, where they live? Without knowing they were created to bear God’s image, they bear the image of those who are “earthy” (1 Cor. 15:48), and identifying themselves by earthy standards!
I don’t drive a luxury car or live in a ‘status’ home, but such labels don’t affect me. Why? because I am no longer “earthy”—I am “heavenly”—“for the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal. 6:14). Nor will I use such labels to judge my brothers and sisters in Christ, for “I have stopped evaluating others by what the world thinks about them…” (2 Cor. 5:16, NLT).
I don’t drive a clunker: I drive a Focus. But it has nothing to do with my self-image. His image in me—not self-image—is what matters to me…“Just as we have born the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly” (1 Cor. 15:49). By the way, the car that defines me hasn’t been invented yet!
I shouldn’t have been surprised; after all, isn’t this how “earthlings” define their self-worth—by what they drive, what they wear, what they do, where they live? Without knowing they were created to bear God’s image, they bear the image of those who are “earthy” (1 Cor. 15:48), and identifying themselves by earthy standards!
I don’t drive a luxury car or live in a ‘status’ home, but such labels don’t affect me. Why? because I am no longer “earthy”—I am “heavenly”—“for the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal. 6:14). Nor will I use such labels to judge my brothers and sisters in Christ, for “I have stopped evaluating others by what the world thinks about them…” (2 Cor. 5:16, NLT).
I don’t drive a clunker: I drive a Focus. But it has nothing to do with my self-image. His image in me—not self-image—is what matters to me…“Just as we have born the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly” (1 Cor. 15:49). By the way, the car that defines me hasn’t been invented yet!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
At Home
One of our friends sent me an email earlier this week to tell me a dear friend of hers had died that morning. My immediate response was: “he’s AT HOME with the Lord.”
While reading through the Gospel of John yesterday, my attention was drawn to the familiar words:
If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him and WE will come to him and make our HOME with him (John 14:23).
I realized that being “at home” with the Lord is a present reality. The words “at home” connote comfort, rest, contentment, love, intimacy, and familiarity. The phrase “Home Sweet Home” comes to mind! The more conscious we are of His internal dwelling presently, the more we will be “at home” with Him.
The original man and woman were “at home” with God in the Garden of Eden. But they sinned against God and became homeless! Through Jesus, God has brought us home to Himself, to His presence, to His love, to His Fellowship. And amazingly, we have become His dwelling place (Eph. 3:17).
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me" (Rev. 3:20). Are you “at home” with the Lord?
While reading through the Gospel of John yesterday, my attention was drawn to the familiar words:
If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him and WE will come to him and make our HOME with him (John 14:23).
I realized that being “at home” with the Lord is a present reality. The words “at home” connote comfort, rest, contentment, love, intimacy, and familiarity. The phrase “Home Sweet Home” comes to mind! The more conscious we are of His internal dwelling presently, the more we will be “at home” with Him.
The original man and woman were “at home” with God in the Garden of Eden. But they sinned against God and became homeless! Through Jesus, God has brought us home to Himself, to His presence, to His love, to His Fellowship. And amazingly, we have become His dwelling place (Eph. 3:17).
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me" (Rev. 3:20). Are you “at home” with the Lord?
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
IT ONLY TAKES A SPOT…
Years ago, a book by Robert Munger called “My Heart, Christ’s Home” had a great impact on me. The author metaphorically compares our heart to a house with many rooms where Christ gradually takes up residence, room by room, until He fully possesses the house.
Now of course none of us would intentionally save a “room” in our heart for the devil, but we may unintentionally leave a “place” where he has access. Thus, Paul warns “Do not give a place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27). The word “place” can also be translated “spot” as in “save my spot in line,” or “room” as in “is there any room in the car for me?”
It only takes a spot in our hearts to give the devil a “foothold." And a “foothold” can grow into a “stronghold.”
This word “place” or "spot" can also be translated figuratively as an “opportunity.” Every un-crucified “spot” in our hearts gives our enemy an opportunity to bring us into temptation and sin.
Toward the end of his earthly life, Jesus said “the ruler of this world is coming, and he finds nothing in me” (John 14:0). Peter amplifies the thought, saying that Jesus is “the lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:19). There was not even one spot (place, room, opportunity) for the devil to get a foothold in Jesus’ heart.
Someday Jesus will return for a Bride that is “holy and blameless,” without “spot or wrinkle or any such thing” (Eph 5:27). We must ask ourselves if we are ready.
Now of course none of us would intentionally save a “room” in our heart for the devil, but we may unintentionally leave a “place” where he has access. Thus, Paul warns “Do not give a place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27). The word “place” can also be translated “spot” as in “save my spot in line,” or “room” as in “is there any room in the car for me?”
It only takes a spot in our hearts to give the devil a “foothold." And a “foothold” can grow into a “stronghold.”
This word “place” or "spot" can also be translated figuratively as an “opportunity.” Every un-crucified “spot” in our hearts gives our enemy an opportunity to bring us into temptation and sin.
Toward the end of his earthly life, Jesus said “the ruler of this world is coming, and he finds nothing in me” (John 14:0). Peter amplifies the thought, saying that Jesus is “the lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:19). There was not even one spot (place, room, opportunity) for the devil to get a foothold in Jesus’ heart.
Someday Jesus will return for a Bride that is “holy and blameless,” without “spot or wrinkle or any such thing” (Eph 5:27). We must ask ourselves if we are ready.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
A True Friend is a Leech
Anyone who has heard me teach knows how much I love ‘word studies.’ While doing an in-depth study on blood covenant, I came across the following:
In Arabic, the word leech is derived from the Arab word friend. A leech is a parasite that lives from ingesting the blood of its host. We have a negative connotation of leeches today, but in history, a leech was considered a good thing. When someone was ill with a fever, leeches would be applied to the skin for bloodletting—removing bad blood. And doctors were commonly called leeches.
The Arabic word leech expresses the idea that a true friend freely offers his life to the other. In primitive Arabic cultures, a “blood brother” ceremony signified each was willing to give up his life, his very blood, to keep his commitment.
Of course the Jews were forbidden to drink blood, and did not enter into blood covenant with one another. But their covenant with God was of blood—but never their own, always a substitute (a bull, a bird, a lamb!).
The Jews would have been shocked to hear Jesus say “unless you drink the blood of the son of man, you have no life” (John 6:54). By saying this, Jesus foretold He was the substitute who would give His life (His blood) and become the source of eternal life. Later Jesus said: "This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood" (Lk. 22:20).
The correlation between friendship and blood covenant is evidenced when Jesus explained "there is no greater love than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13-14). And so, by blood covenant, we enter the deepest experience we could ever have with another—our co-death and co-life with Jesus. Paul knew this: “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ [lives] in me…” (Gal. 2:20).
Jesus chose you to be His friend (Jn. 15:14) and wants you to live by His life! Is His life flowing through your veins?
In Arabic, the word leech is derived from the Arab word friend. A leech is a parasite that lives from ingesting the blood of its host. We have a negative connotation of leeches today, but in history, a leech was considered a good thing. When someone was ill with a fever, leeches would be applied to the skin for bloodletting—removing bad blood. And doctors were commonly called leeches.
The Arabic word leech expresses the idea that a true friend freely offers his life to the other. In primitive Arabic cultures, a “blood brother” ceremony signified each was willing to give up his life, his very blood, to keep his commitment.
Of course the Jews were forbidden to drink blood, and did not enter into blood covenant with one another. But their covenant with God was of blood—but never their own, always a substitute (a bull, a bird, a lamb!).
The Jews would have been shocked to hear Jesus say “unless you drink the blood of the son of man, you have no life” (John 6:54). By saying this, Jesus foretold He was the substitute who would give His life (His blood) and become the source of eternal life. Later Jesus said: "This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood" (Lk. 22:20).
The correlation between friendship and blood covenant is evidenced when Jesus explained "there is no greater love than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13-14). And so, by blood covenant, we enter the deepest experience we could ever have with another—our co-death and co-life with Jesus. Paul knew this: “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ [lives] in me…” (Gal. 2:20).
Jesus chose you to be His friend (Jn. 15:14) and wants you to live by His life! Is His life flowing through your veins?
Monday, August 3, 2009
You May be Speaking, but I'm Not Listening!
Altha and I live very near the “Caltrain” railroad tracks. To say that dozens of commuter trains blaring their horns as they pass by every work day (and less often on nights and weekends) makes for disagreeable background noise would be an understatement. But over the years we have learned NOT to pay attention to the noisy trains. There’s nothing wrong with our ears; but by way of practice, we have “dulled” them to the intrusive sounds.
The writer of Hebrews warns the Jewish believers they had become “dull of hearing” (5:11). What does “dull of hearing” mean. It means they were practiced in not paying attention! The opposite of “dull” is sharp—our human faculties are sharpened by using and practicing them, like any discipline.
How can we prevent our hearing from becoming dull? How do we sharpen our listening skills? The obvious answer is: by paying attention. Even as Altha and I have learned to ignore the sounds of trains, Christians can practice ignoring the voice of the Holy Spirit. Sharpening your listening skills must be cultivated. It must be deliberate and consistent. The writer admonishes these Hebrew Christians to pay much closer attention to the things they heard. (2:1)
And finally, speaking through Isaiah, Jesus says: “The Lord wakens my ear morning by morning, to listen like one being taught; He has opened My ear; and I was not disobedient…” (Is. 50:4-5). In other words, even Jesus disciplined himself to listen and pay attention.
If you are not hearing the Lord, maybe you're not listening!
The writer of Hebrews warns the Jewish believers they had become “dull of hearing” (5:11). What does “dull of hearing” mean. It means they were practiced in not paying attention! The opposite of “dull” is sharp—our human faculties are sharpened by using and practicing them, like any discipline.
How can we prevent our hearing from becoming dull? How do we sharpen our listening skills? The obvious answer is: by paying attention. Even as Altha and I have learned to ignore the sounds of trains, Christians can practice ignoring the voice of the Holy Spirit. Sharpening your listening skills must be cultivated. It must be deliberate and consistent. The writer admonishes these Hebrew Christians to pay much closer attention to the things they heard. (2:1)
And finally, speaking through Isaiah, Jesus says: “The Lord wakens my ear morning by morning, to listen like one being taught; He has opened My ear; and I was not disobedient…” (Is. 50:4-5). In other words, even Jesus disciplined himself to listen and pay attention.
If you are not hearing the Lord, maybe you're not listening!
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