We will be bidding a fond farewell to 2009—some only too glad to have it behind. There have been many defining moments this year: our first African American president, the first female Speaker of the House, and the appointment of the first Latina Supreme Court Justice. And a defining moment for heroism was the extraordinary emergency landing in the Hudson River by Captain "Sully" of US Airways Flight 1549. Unfortunately, these good events are nearly over- shadowed by as many hard-to-forget human failures, not the least of which was the moral fall of Tiger Woods—in the zenith of his life.
As we come to the end of this year, maybe you feel there is some personal defining moment from 2009 you would like to forget about. Well, I have good news for you; you can. At a time of tragic failure in Israel, the prophet Jeremiah says: “I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet, I still dare to hope when I remember this: The unfailing love of the LORD never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day” (Lamentations 3:21-23). The New Testament parallel is what Paul calls the newness of life (Ro. 6:4). Every day “old things are passed away” as yesterday's failures are forgiven and forgotton: they do not define us. Rather, we are continually being defined as a new creatures in Christ. Every “today” all things are made new (2 Cor. 5:17).
The story of the prodigal son reveals God's attitude to failure. When the prodigal returns home, expecting payback, his father brings out the best robe and throws a party. This is the message of hope: a chance to start over, a new beginning. God never gives up on anyone. I hope this is an encouragement to someone today. Our God is the God of new beginnings. Let this thought give you hope in the New Year.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Change You Can Believe In
The first decade of the 21st century has produced some incredible changes. Ten years ago there was no Facebook, MySpace, or Twitter. The internet highway was largely untraveled, and two start-up companies called Google and Yahoo seemed like jokes. Ten years ago, no one could have imagined the need for a law prohibiting texting while driving. And many more such technologies have changed our lives—for better or worse!
Many of the changes of the last decade have been driven by fear. The “world as we knew it” was forever changed by 9-11: unbelievable changes in airport security; the advent of two wars in pursuit of an invisible enemy. Some are calling it the “decade of fear”—fear of terrorism, global warming, swine flu, recession, losing your home or job. Consequently, new laws were implemented, forever altering our our life styles.
How ought a follower of Christ live in an ever-changing world? What can protect us from unexpected, anxiety-producing changes? The answer is clear: by fixing ourselves on an unchanging God. The change that should occupy our attention is the change that is going on inside of us, as the Holy Spirit is changing (transforming) us into the image of Jesus. We should live as those who have been crucified to this world (Galatians 6:14), its influence of minimal importance. After all, we are not of this world, are we? (John 8:23) And we live in this changing world with the hope that someday “we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed (1 Cor. 15:51-52).
Now that’s change you can believe in.
Many of the changes of the last decade have been driven by fear. The “world as we knew it” was forever changed by 9-11: unbelievable changes in airport security; the advent of two wars in pursuit of an invisible enemy. Some are calling it the “decade of fear”—fear of terrorism, global warming, swine flu, recession, losing your home or job. Consequently, new laws were implemented, forever altering our our life styles.
How ought a follower of Christ live in an ever-changing world? What can protect us from unexpected, anxiety-producing changes? The answer is clear: by fixing ourselves on an unchanging God. The change that should occupy our attention is the change that is going on inside of us, as the Holy Spirit is changing (transforming) us into the image of Jesus. We should live as those who have been crucified to this world (Galatians 6:14), its influence of minimal importance. After all, we are not of this world, are we? (John 8:23) And we live in this changing world with the hope that someday “we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed (1 Cor. 15:51-52).
Now that’s change you can believe in.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Am I Repeating Myself?
Last Wednesday was the first anniversary of this “Dying to Live” blog, and if you read my devotional postings daily, you know there are certain themes I repeat (hopefully, using various analogies and metaphors). This is not coincidental but deliberate—because repetition is fundamental to learning.
Neuroscientists explain that our brain carries signals from one nerve cell to another by way of synapses, making pathways in your brain. So when you learn something new, it really is like clearing a path through a dense jungle. The first time you go through the undergrowth, it can be rough. But as you travel along the new path repeatedly, it becomes a road, and eventually a well-travelled highway. So it is with your memory: the more you repeat certain thought patterns, the more likely you will be able to recall that information—it literally ‘grooves’ into your brain.
Paul employed the use of repetition in his letters. As did Peter, who vowed: I believe I should keep on reminding you of these things as long as I live (2 Peter 1:13).
My dear mother is getting hard of hearing and I often have to repeat myself before she hears me. But I love her and I don’t mind. And I have the same mindset toward you, my readers. As I begin a second year of this blog, I promise to keep on repeating the “Dying to Live” truths that will challenge us to enter more fully into His abundant life. Are you listening, or do I need to repeat myself?
Neuroscientists explain that our brain carries signals from one nerve cell to another by way of synapses, making pathways in your brain. So when you learn something new, it really is like clearing a path through a dense jungle. The first time you go through the undergrowth, it can be rough. But as you travel along the new path repeatedly, it becomes a road, and eventually a well-travelled highway. So it is with your memory: the more you repeat certain thought patterns, the more likely you will be able to recall that information—it literally ‘grooves’ into your brain.
Paul employed the use of repetition in his letters. As did Peter, who vowed: I believe I should keep on reminding you of these things as long as I live (2 Peter 1:13).
My dear mother is getting hard of hearing and I often have to repeat myself before she hears me. But I love her and I don’t mind. And I have the same mindset toward you, my readers. As I begin a second year of this blog, I promise to keep on repeating the “Dying to Live” truths that will challenge us to enter more fully into His abundant life. Are you listening, or do I need to repeat myself?
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas is Not Only a Time ‘For Giving’ but ‘Forgiving’
As I listened to Dr. Laura the other day (yes, I admit listening to her, but in my defense, only if I happen to be in the car when she’s on!), I noted how many people call in this time of year because they don’t know how to deal with difficult relatives during the holidays. As I reflected on the callers’ dilemmas, I realized Christmas is more about forgiving than for giving.
On Christmas Day, good emotions prevail; and we are inclined to be forgiving and forbearing, temporarily overcome by a love that is greater than our negative feelings toward someone. But if only the spirit of Christmas moves us, we are not truly forgiving, but simply suspending our unforgiveness for a day: a benevolent warden offering a provisional pardon. But unless God’s Spirit of love overtakes us, resentment, bitterness and unforgiveness reclaim their foothold in our lives.
This “spirit of love” is expressed in these words of Paul:
“Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy [compassion], kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. You must make allowance for each other's faults and forgive the person who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love. Love is what binds us all together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:12-14).
This Christmas be occupied with God’s gift of love through Jesus until it completely controls your thoughts and feelings toward all those whom God has placed in your life—not with the fleeting sentimental emotion of Christmas, but with the love of God, because love covers a multitude of sins. (1 Pet. 4:8).
On Christmas Day, good emotions prevail; and we are inclined to be forgiving and forbearing, temporarily overcome by a love that is greater than our negative feelings toward someone. But if only the spirit of Christmas moves us, we are not truly forgiving, but simply suspending our unforgiveness for a day: a benevolent warden offering a provisional pardon. But unless God’s Spirit of love overtakes us, resentment, bitterness and unforgiveness reclaim their foothold in our lives.
This “spirit of love” is expressed in these words of Paul:
“Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy [compassion], kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. You must make allowance for each other's faults and forgive the person who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love. Love is what binds us all together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:12-14).
This Christmas be occupied with God’s gift of love through Jesus until it completely controls your thoughts and feelings toward all those whom God has placed in your life—not with the fleeting sentimental emotion of Christmas, but with the love of God, because love covers a multitude of sins. (1 Pet. 4:8).
Monday, December 21, 2009
Don't Forget to Exercise During the Holidays!
How many times in your life have you regretted not exercising more restraint or self-discipline? How many ‘slip-ups’ or ‘blow-ups’ do you wish you could erase from your past? If you’re like me, probably more than you want to think about. But thankfully, every day “in Christ” is new. And today is a good day to renew your work-out routine—exercising self-control.
The word “self-control” comes from the Greek “strength,” meaning to "master one’s passions and desires.” Self-control is NOT the same as willpower. A strong will (will power) is a natural trait—some are inclined to it, while others are prone to passivity. These two natural traits result in, respectively, self-sufficiency or self-deprecation—neither of which is any help in fighting the enemy of our souls.
Since “self-control” is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:23), it is indeed part of your new nature. Perhaps in your frustration, you have prayed for more self-control. But you will never possess any more of it than you already have! Our problem is not the “having” but the “using”—a spiritual muscle needing exercise. Not unlike muscles that are strengthened by stress (until they ‘burn’), every time you exercise self-control, you will feel the burn. But with practice, you will be stronger. And unlike an athlete who practices self-control to win a temporary reward, your prize is eternal” (1 Cor. 9:25; 1 Tim. 4:8).
Just yesterday, Altha and I drove into San Francisco for a pre-Christmas celebration, and after dinner, as I was enjoying a large calorie-fused chocolate ‘sundae’, I said: “Guess what I’m writing about in my blog tomorrow?—self-control.” We laughed, but oh, how timely! I am hereby reminding myself—and maybe you too?—of our need at the beginning of this holiday season to remember to exercise...self-control, that is.
The word “self-control” comes from the Greek “strength,” meaning to "master one’s passions and desires.” Self-control is NOT the same as willpower. A strong will (will power) is a natural trait—some are inclined to it, while others are prone to passivity. These two natural traits result in, respectively, self-sufficiency or self-deprecation—neither of which is any help in fighting the enemy of our souls.
Since “self-control” is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:23), it is indeed part of your new nature. Perhaps in your frustration, you have prayed for more self-control. But you will never possess any more of it than you already have! Our problem is not the “having” but the “using”—a spiritual muscle needing exercise. Not unlike muscles that are strengthened by stress (until they ‘burn’), every time you exercise self-control, you will feel the burn. But with practice, you will be stronger. And unlike an athlete who practices self-control to win a temporary reward, your prize is eternal” (1 Cor. 9:25; 1 Tim. 4:8).
Just yesterday, Altha and I drove into San Francisco for a pre-Christmas celebration, and after dinner, as I was enjoying a large calorie-fused chocolate ‘sundae’, I said: “Guess what I’m writing about in my blog tomorrow?—self-control.” We laughed, but oh, how timely! I am hereby reminding myself—and maybe you too?—of our need at the beginning of this holiday season to remember to exercise...self-control, that is.
Friday, December 18, 2009
How Do You Measure Your Progress?
Whether economic recovery has begun depends on how you read the statistics. Real estate values are only down 20% versus 40% a year ago. GDP, while still declining, is not as bad as a year ago. Not surprisingly, the Labor Department is reporting success: only 11,000 jobs were lost in October versus 100,000 a year ago. Do you get the picture? Progress is relative—everything is less bad than it was a year ago!
As a counselor whose occupation for 25 years has been to help people “progress” in their spiritual growth, I’ve observed Christians tend to measure their progress not unlike this “less-bad” technique, saying something like: “I am not sinning as much as I was a year ago—I don’t get as angry (or anxious or depressed) as often as I used to.” While one might argue there is some validity to this measurement, it seems to me it’s akin to saying “I must be getting better: I don’t use drugs as much as I used to.” In other words, the standard is too relative. Is there not a more substantial way of measuring our progress?
There is an inherent danger in measuring our progress by where we used to be. Instead of paying attention to our history (Phil. 3:14), our focus should be the pursuit of excellence (1 Tim. 4), and pressing on to perfection (Heb. 6:1). To do otherwise is to sanction imperfection and mediocrity. Paul says, rather bluntly, it is foolish to compare ourselves with each other, and measure ourselves by ourselves (2 Cor. 10:12). If the standard is I-am-better-than-I-used-to-be, don't we risk falling short of “attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:13)? We will only be changed as we behold the excellence of Jesus' glory—not our progress! (2 Cor. 3:18) In the end, the only true measure of spiritual progress is whether we are like Jesus.
As a counselor whose occupation for 25 years has been to help people “progress” in their spiritual growth, I’ve observed Christians tend to measure their progress not unlike this “less-bad” technique, saying something like: “I am not sinning as much as I was a year ago—I don’t get as angry (or anxious or depressed) as often as I used to.” While one might argue there is some validity to this measurement, it seems to me it’s akin to saying “I must be getting better: I don’t use drugs as much as I used to.” In other words, the standard is too relative. Is there not a more substantial way of measuring our progress?
There is an inherent danger in measuring our progress by where we used to be. Instead of paying attention to our history (Phil. 3:14), our focus should be the pursuit of excellence (1 Tim. 4), and pressing on to perfection (Heb. 6:1). To do otherwise is to sanction imperfection and mediocrity. Paul says, rather bluntly, it is foolish to compare ourselves with each other, and measure ourselves by ourselves (2 Cor. 10:12). If the standard is I-am-better-than-I-used-to-be, don't we risk falling short of “attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:13)? We will only be changed as we behold the excellence of Jesus' glory—not our progress! (2 Cor. 3:18) In the end, the only true measure of spiritual progress is whether we are like Jesus.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
What's Happening to the Church?
According to an article in USA Today, 37% of all mega churches (not to be confused with ‘all’ churches) now have two or more locations: mega church is becoming multisite! Multisite churches are defined as “high-efficiency evangelism allowing thousands of worshipers to hear the same message from a lead pastor…by video at three, five, even a dozen or more locations.” A leading multisite church my son attends, Mars Hill Church in Seattle, already has 10 sites, and is planning to add 100 more video-linked sites in the next decade.
While I am a strong advocate of “getting out of the box,” I am cautiously watching this new movement to see how this approach will impact the REAL growth of the church—the depth and maturity of individual believers. After all, the Lord’s command was to “make disciples”—not churches. I can’t help but wonder how this phenomenon (which seems to reflect the impersonal nature of our internet, social networking culture) will impact the Christian culture of “fellowship.” Listen to this quote by Frank Viola, author of “Rethinking the Wineskin”: Unfortunately, those believers who are attracted to these large, flashy, organized WalMarts of the American religious world can hardly find a place in their hearts for a simple, unextravagant meeting centered around the person of Christ alone.
As I watch the American mega church-multisite movement, my heart aches for the small ‘parish’ pastors of flocks of fifty who are challenged with the notion that bigger is not only better, but expected. We must ask ourselves this question: Do our churches, either mega or mini, bear any resemblance to the simple, Spirit-dependent, Christ-centered, spiritually dynamic, mutually-ministering churches of the first century that turned the world upside down (Acts 17:6)? I guess time will tell.
While I am a strong advocate of “getting out of the box,” I am cautiously watching this new movement to see how this approach will impact the REAL growth of the church—the depth and maturity of individual believers. After all, the Lord’s command was to “make disciples”—not churches. I can’t help but wonder how this phenomenon (which seems to reflect the impersonal nature of our internet, social networking culture) will impact the Christian culture of “fellowship.” Listen to this quote by Frank Viola, author of “Rethinking the Wineskin”: Unfortunately, those believers who are attracted to these large, flashy, organized WalMarts of the American religious world can hardly find a place in their hearts for a simple, unextravagant meeting centered around the person of Christ alone.
As I watch the American mega church-multisite movement, my heart aches for the small ‘parish’ pastors of flocks of fifty who are challenged with the notion that bigger is not only better, but expected. We must ask ourselves this question: Do our churches, either mega or mini, bear any resemblance to the simple, Spirit-dependent, Christ-centered, spiritually dynamic, mutually-ministering churches of the first century that turned the world upside down (Acts 17:6)? I guess time will tell.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Will You Embrace Your Difficulties?
If you are in the midst of a trial, whether it is personal, relational, or financial, your first thought is probably not to thank God. But God uses these “unwanted” circumstances to drive us to Himself: we become desperate for His presence. But when circumstances are good, we are at risk of becoming complacent. The peril of prosperity is spiritual ambivalence. Not that it is impossible to be penitent and prosperous at once—just difficult (Luke 18:25).
If you’re in the middle of some difficulties even as you read this, don’t be jealous of your brother who seems to have it all ‘together.’ Be thankful if you have less than him. You are really far better off—if only you could see how God is blessing you. Do you believe God is good and gives only good things to you? (James 1:17) Do you believe God knows what you need? (Matthew 6:8) Hold fast to the words of Job: “Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?" (Job 2:10)
Listen to God’s warning to the Hebrews: “Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the LORD your God and disobey his commands... For when you have become full and prosperous and have built fine homes to live in, and when your flocks and herds have become very large and your silver and gold have multiplied along with everything else, that is the time to be careful” (Deuteronomy 8:11-14).
In God’s economy scarcity or prosperity are of equal value. That is the secret of contentment: “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances… I know how to get along with humble means, and... how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret … of having abundance and suffering need. (Phil. 4:12). Paul embraced his difficulties and learned contentment. Will you!?
If you’re in the middle of some difficulties even as you read this, don’t be jealous of your brother who seems to have it all ‘together.’ Be thankful if you have less than him. You are really far better off—if only you could see how God is blessing you. Do you believe God is good and gives only good things to you? (James 1:17) Do you believe God knows what you need? (Matthew 6:8) Hold fast to the words of Job: “Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?" (Job 2:10)
Listen to God’s warning to the Hebrews: “Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the LORD your God and disobey his commands... For when you have become full and prosperous and have built fine homes to live in, and when your flocks and herds have become very large and your silver and gold have multiplied along with everything else, that is the time to be careful” (Deuteronomy 8:11-14).
In God’s economy scarcity or prosperity are of equal value. That is the secret of contentment: “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances… I know how to get along with humble means, and... how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret … of having abundance and suffering need. (Phil. 4:12). Paul embraced his difficulties and learned contentment. Will you!?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Aggressive Christianity
In his letters to Timothy (1 Tim: 6:11; 2 Tim. 2:22), Paul entreats him to run from evil things and youthful lusts and pursue righteousness and a godly life. Since the word “pursue” can be translated “run,” the admonition could read “run away from sin and run to God.” These are words of action, even aggression.
Paul is saying "run away from temptation as fast as you can." But I am afraid too many Christians are not this aggressive against sinful temptations. Too many Christians are more cavalier—playing with temptation, they think, “How close can I get without actually sinning?” They do not realize, by asking the question, they have already sinned!
Imploring him to run to righteousness, Paul is not simply telling Timothy to think about these godly things or just long for these things. No, he tells him to get up and go after them aggressively. Paul’s admonition to Timothy is no less ours today. We must go after God with everything that is in us. We must pursue Him aggressively.
Time for some soul-searching here… do you make time to pray, read, study and meditate on His word? Are you so desperate to please Him that you will do whatever it takes even if it means spending less time watching TV, reading books or hanging out with friends? Are you too easily satisfied with your church's Sunday morning morsels? In other words, are you aggressive in your personal pursuit of God? Aggressive pursuit of God will bring a radical change to your life. And even more important than how it may change you, it will even change how God responds to you (Heb. 11:6). Now that's something worth running after!
Paul is saying "run away from temptation as fast as you can." But I am afraid too many Christians are not this aggressive against sinful temptations. Too many Christians are more cavalier—playing with temptation, they think, “How close can I get without actually sinning?” They do not realize, by asking the question, they have already sinned!
Imploring him to run to righteousness, Paul is not simply telling Timothy to think about these godly things or just long for these things. No, he tells him to get up and go after them aggressively. Paul’s admonition to Timothy is no less ours today. We must go after God with everything that is in us. We must pursue Him aggressively.
Time for some soul-searching here… do you make time to pray, read, study and meditate on His word? Are you so desperate to please Him that you will do whatever it takes even if it means spending less time watching TV, reading books or hanging out with friends? Are you too easily satisfied with your church's Sunday morning morsels? In other words, are you aggressive in your personal pursuit of God? Aggressive pursuit of God will bring a radical change to your life. And even more important than how it may change you, it will even change how God responds to you (Heb. 11:6). Now that's something worth running after!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Are You Being Stretched!?
When I am feeling particularly stretched, I have to remind myself that I am a ‘wineskin.’ Jesus said you cannot put ‘new wine’ into an old ‘wineskin’—because as the wine ferments, it expands, and will rupture an old wineskin. Do you feel sometimes like you’re being stretched so thin you may explode?
Our English word ‘stretch’ is used in many idioms; I think you may find these helpful to remember when you are feeling over-extended. Do you ever feel like you are on an empty stretch of the highway or like you are on the last stretch of a race? Or conversely, maybe your circumstances are constraining you, and you feel like you are being squeezed into an airplane seat; being unable to stretch out is stretching your patience.
Then the word “stretcher” is also enlightening. Stretcher bars are used to tighten a canvas so the artist can draw or paint on it. Are we not God’s workmanship? Or a stretcher can be used to expand a leather shoe to make it fit better. Isn’t it God’s work to make us ‘fit’ for His purposes? Or a stretcher is used to transport sick people to a place where they can get healthy (think about that!).
Maybe you think I’m stretching a bit with these metaphors? So let me end with Paul’s use of the word. During his prison stretch, he wrote to the Philippians: “one thing I do: I forget what lies behind and I reach forward to what lies ahead…” (Philip. 3:14). The literal meaning of the word “reach” is “stretch.” Paul says “I am stretching forward.” Would it be a stretch for us to read into Paul’s words that stretching is normal, even necessary if we are to get what God wants us to have? Next time you start to picture yourself on one of those medieval stretcher racks, remember: you are a wineskin.
Our English word ‘stretch’ is used in many idioms; I think you may find these helpful to remember when you are feeling over-extended. Do you ever feel like you are on an empty stretch of the highway or like you are on the last stretch of a race? Or conversely, maybe your circumstances are constraining you, and you feel like you are being squeezed into an airplane seat; being unable to stretch out is stretching your patience.
Then the word “stretcher” is also enlightening. Stretcher bars are used to tighten a canvas so the artist can draw or paint on it. Are we not God’s workmanship? Or a stretcher can be used to expand a leather shoe to make it fit better. Isn’t it God’s work to make us ‘fit’ for His purposes? Or a stretcher is used to transport sick people to a place where they can get healthy (think about that!).
Maybe you think I’m stretching a bit with these metaphors? So let me end with Paul’s use of the word. During his prison stretch, he wrote to the Philippians: “one thing I do: I forget what lies behind and I reach forward to what lies ahead…” (Philip. 3:14). The literal meaning of the word “reach” is “stretch.” Paul says “I am stretching forward.” Would it be a stretch for us to read into Paul’s words that stretching is normal, even necessary if we are to get what God wants us to have? Next time you start to picture yourself on one of those medieval stretcher racks, remember: you are a wineskin.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Beware of the Spirit of Omnitheism
Yesterday USA Today reported the findings of a recent Pew survey that shows one in four Americans blend their Christian beliefs with New Age and Eastern ideas such as pantheism, reincarnation and yoga. There is a name for people who embrace all religions as having value and legitimacy: they are called “omnitheists.” Omnitheism stands in opposition to dogmatism, advocating there is no such thing as absolute truth.
This Pew survey would seem to indicate omnitheism is on the rise. And we should take note there is a corresponding escalating criticism of evangelical Christians for their lack of "religious tolerance.” The “I am the way/narrow-gate” message of salvation (Jn. 14:6; Mat. 7:13-14) stands in mounting contrast to the swelling movement of omnitheism. What is especially noteworthy is that nearly one-fourth of Americans who call themselves “Christian” now advocate the acceptance of all religions.
And what is more surprising are the people who are, however inadvertently, promoting it. A few years ago, President George Bush, an evangelical Christian said: “I believe all religions, whether they be Muslim, Christian, or any other religion, pray to the same God.” This year in his inaugural address, President Obama, more than any president before him, declared our Nation (formerly often referred to as a Christian nation) to be religiously pluralistic. Even one of America’s most well known evangelical preachers, Joel Osteen, affirmed “omnitheism,” however unintentionally, when he was asked by Larry King whether Hindus will go to heaven if they don’t believe in Jesus. Joel Osteen’s alarming response: “I don’t know about judging other people [Hindus and other religions]; I just know they love God.”
Paul warns that in the last days, many will be enticed by this spirit of omnitheism: “Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from what we believe; they will follow lying spirits and teachings that come from demons” (1 Tim. 4:1).
This Pew survey would seem to indicate omnitheism is on the rise. And we should take note there is a corresponding escalating criticism of evangelical Christians for their lack of "religious tolerance.” The “I am the way/narrow-gate” message of salvation (Jn. 14:6; Mat. 7:13-14) stands in mounting contrast to the swelling movement of omnitheism. What is especially noteworthy is that nearly one-fourth of Americans who call themselves “Christian” now advocate the acceptance of all religions.
And what is more surprising are the people who are, however inadvertently, promoting it. A few years ago, President George Bush, an evangelical Christian said: “I believe all religions, whether they be Muslim, Christian, or any other religion, pray to the same God.” This year in his inaugural address, President Obama, more than any president before him, declared our Nation (formerly often referred to as a Christian nation) to be religiously pluralistic. Even one of America’s most well known evangelical preachers, Joel Osteen, affirmed “omnitheism,” however unintentionally, when he was asked by Larry King whether Hindus will go to heaven if they don’t believe in Jesus. Joel Osteen’s alarming response: “I don’t know about judging other people [Hindus and other religions]; I just know they love God.”
Paul warns that in the last days, many will be enticed by this spirit of omnitheism: “Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from what we believe; they will follow lying spirits and teachings that come from demons” (1 Tim. 4:1).
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Is Your Watch Set to God’s Time?
Even though God lives outside of ‘time,’ He uses ‘time’ to accomplish His purposes—“a time for every purpose under heaven" (Ec. 3:1). At a wedding feast in Cana, the host ran out of wine, and when Mary asked for His assistance, Jesus replied, “My time has not yet come” (John 2:4). How did Jesus know the time?
Have you ever asked God for something really important, then grown impatient waiting for it? [This is a rhetorical question!] Since God is always “on time,” the reason for your impatience is that your ‘watch’ is out of sync with God’s. Remember when Martha and Mary (John 11) sent word to Jesus that their brother Lazarus was sick. Jesus delayed, and by their ‘watches’ he arrived too late: Lazarus was dead. Or remember when Jairus (Mark 5) asked Jesus to come to his house because his daughter was near death? On the way, Jesus stopped to minister to a woman who had been sick for 12 years. The delay caused Jesus to be too late: Jairus’ daughter died. They must have thought Jesus had rather ‘poor’ timing.
Jesus not only knew His heavenly Father's plans for His life, He knew the time for those plans. His internal clock was set to the Father’s time. In John 7:6 when his Disciples urged him to go up to Jerusalem, Jesus replied, "My time has not yet come." Because Jesus knew that His Father had a time-table, and because He knew nothing could interfere with it, He could be patient.
At just the right time, Jesus arrived at the home of Mary and Martha, and at the home of Jairus. But instead of healing Lazarus and Jairus’ daughter, He raised them from the dead! So, how will you respond when your plans have died because God has ‘failed’ to show up on time? Remember Martha and Mary. Remember Jairus. Look what He did for them. Is your watch set to God’s time? You will probably have to re-set it frequently…maybe even daily?!
Have you ever asked God for something really important, then grown impatient waiting for it? [This is a rhetorical question!] Since God is always “on time,” the reason for your impatience is that your ‘watch’ is out of sync with God’s. Remember when Martha and Mary (John 11) sent word to Jesus that their brother Lazarus was sick. Jesus delayed, and by their ‘watches’ he arrived too late: Lazarus was dead. Or remember when Jairus (Mark 5) asked Jesus to come to his house because his daughter was near death? On the way, Jesus stopped to minister to a woman who had been sick for 12 years. The delay caused Jesus to be too late: Jairus’ daughter died. They must have thought Jesus had rather ‘poor’ timing.
Jesus not only knew His heavenly Father's plans for His life, He knew the time for those plans. His internal clock was set to the Father’s time. In John 7:6 when his Disciples urged him to go up to Jerusalem, Jesus replied, "My time has not yet come." Because Jesus knew that His Father had a time-table, and because He knew nothing could interfere with it, He could be patient.
At just the right time, Jesus arrived at the home of Mary and Martha, and at the home of Jairus. But instead of healing Lazarus and Jairus’ daughter, He raised them from the dead! So, how will you respond when your plans have died because God has ‘failed’ to show up on time? Remember Martha and Mary. Remember Jairus. Look what He did for them. Is your watch set to God’s time? You will probably have to re-set it frequently…maybe even daily?!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
You May be Left-Handed, but You Better Be Right-Footed!
When I was a teen-ager, I had to go to an orthodontist to get my teeth straightened. Of Greek origin, the word ‘ortho’ means “straight,” or “right.” There was something wrong with my teeth—the braces made them “right.” Orthopedic shoes are made for people who may have something wrong with their feet; the shoes make their feet “right.”
The old English word “upright” is the Greek word “orthopodeo” combining the words “straight” or “right” with the word “foot.” The Bible commands us to be upright, which means, quite literally, “right-footed.” While the word “upright” is used only once in the New Testament (Gal. 2:14), it is used many times in the Old. God commends Job as a perfect and upright man: he was rightly related to God. Significantly, after King David took a wrong moral turn in his life, he asked God to “renew a right spirit within me” (Ps. 51:10). Solomon uses the word for a person on a journey: “if you acknowledge the Lord in all your ways, the Lord will make your path straight [right] (Prov. 3:6). In other words, you won’t get lost—you will always be going the right way.
So, if you want to follow Jesus, you must be ‘right-footed.’ And if you are consistently right-footed, God will even turn your right foot into a “hinds” foot. (The hind is a female deer that is able to move easily across rocky terrain without losing its footing.) “He makes my feet like hinds' feet, and sets me upon my high places” (Ps. 18:33). Don’t you wish being upright was as easy as wearing orthopedic shoes!? You may be tired of tripping over your left feet, but God is more than able to keep you from stumbling (Jude 24 NLT) and lead you on the right path (Ps. 16:11).
The old English word “upright” is the Greek word “orthopodeo” combining the words “straight” or “right” with the word “foot.” The Bible commands us to be upright, which means, quite literally, “right-footed.” While the word “upright” is used only once in the New Testament (Gal. 2:14), it is used many times in the Old. God commends Job as a perfect and upright man: he was rightly related to God. Significantly, after King David took a wrong moral turn in his life, he asked God to “renew a right spirit within me” (Ps. 51:10). Solomon uses the word for a person on a journey: “if you acknowledge the Lord in all your ways, the Lord will make your path straight [right] (Prov. 3:6). In other words, you won’t get lost—you will always be going the right way.
So, if you want to follow Jesus, you must be ‘right-footed.’ And if you are consistently right-footed, God will even turn your right foot into a “hinds” foot. (The hind is a female deer that is able to move easily across rocky terrain without losing its footing.) “He makes my feet like hinds' feet, and sets me upon my high places” (Ps. 18:33). Don’t you wish being upright was as easy as wearing orthopedic shoes!? You may be tired of tripping over your left feet, but God is more than able to keep you from stumbling (Jude 24 NLT) and lead you on the right path (Ps. 16:11).
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Changing Lanes
Years ago Altha and I heard a sermon by Daniel Henderson at Los Gatos Christian Church neither of us has ever forgotten: “Stay in Your Lane.” Daniel meant that each of us should know our ‘calling’ from the Lord and stay there; using the analogy of cars on the freeway, we should stay in our lane. As long as we stay in our lane, we are promised to be fruitful. But when we move into someone else’s lane or into one that God didn’t call us to, we will find ourselves unfruitful and frustrated. Jesus knew His calling: “I do nothing without consulting the Father. I judge as I am told…” (Jn. 5:30 NLT); and “I have finished the work which You have given Me to do” (Jn. 17:4 NIV). Using our analogy, Jesus knew His lane and stayed in it.
But lately, I seem to be experiencing a lot of “lane changes.” When we were in Guatemala recently, we had planned an overnight trip to El Salvador. But on the morning of that day, our daughter became sick and we had to take her to the hospital. In a moment, the day’s agenda changed. Last Monday, I had planned to do some writing and to pay bills. But at 7 am my mother called and told me my father (who has cancer) was not able to get out of bed. And in a moment, my agenda changed. These are only a few of many "lane changes" I've experienced this last month.
Now of course as any good, experienced driver knows, when you are on the freeway, you must always be aware of what is happening in the lanes to your left and right: you never know when something ahead of you may force you to change lanes suddenly. Similarly, when God suddenly brings about circumstances that cause you to change lanes, you must be immediately ready and obedient. But thankfully, you don’t have to worry about crashing in the lane he sends you too—He has already cleared the way. Your job is to move quickly when he says “change lanes!”
But lately, I seem to be experiencing a lot of “lane changes.” When we were in Guatemala recently, we had planned an overnight trip to El Salvador. But on the morning of that day, our daughter became sick and we had to take her to the hospital. In a moment, the day’s agenda changed. Last Monday, I had planned to do some writing and to pay bills. But at 7 am my mother called and told me my father (who has cancer) was not able to get out of bed. And in a moment, my agenda changed. These are only a few of many "lane changes" I've experienced this last month.
Now of course as any good, experienced driver knows, when you are on the freeway, you must always be aware of what is happening in the lanes to your left and right: you never know when something ahead of you may force you to change lanes suddenly. Similarly, when God suddenly brings about circumstances that cause you to change lanes, you must be immediately ready and obedient. But thankfully, you don’t have to worry about crashing in the lane he sends you too—He has already cleared the way. Your job is to move quickly when he says “change lanes!”
Friday, December 4, 2009
Are You as Close to God as You Want to Be?
People use “spatial” terminology when they speak of getting closer to God. But in fact, there is nothing you can do to get closer to God than you already are. God has loved you infinitely and become one with you in Christ. He indwells you. You can’t get closer than that. Given that, what does he mean when James says “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you?”
Since James’ statement is not “spatial,” it must be “dynamic.” The phrase “draw near” helps us understand. It means communion and fellowship with God in prayer. How do we “draw near” to Him?
This is how theologian Arthur Pink describes it: “by meditating, thinking upon, and contemplating His complex person, His glorious titles, His compassionate intercession, His precious promises, His Living Word, He may have a constant place, the supreme place, in our thoughts and in our affections.” Then Pink said something that really caught my attention: “The apostle prayed [Eph. 3:17-19] for the saints to have a spiritual enjoyment of Him so that He would be present and precious to the soul.”
Is there someone special in your life whose company you enjoy? You just like being near them, right? Do you enjoy Jesus like that? Do you love just being with Him? This is the ‘nearness’ we all desire. In the Song of Solomon, the Shulammite woman who represents the Bride of Christ, says: “I must seek him whom my soul loves… when I found him whom my soul loves, I held on to him and would not let him go…” (3:2, 4). And through the prophet Jeremiah, God says “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (19:13). It’s up to you: you really can be as close to God as you want to be!
Since James’ statement is not “spatial,” it must be “dynamic.” The phrase “draw near” helps us understand. It means communion and fellowship with God in prayer. How do we “draw near” to Him?
This is how theologian Arthur Pink describes it: “by meditating, thinking upon, and contemplating His complex person, His glorious titles, His compassionate intercession, His precious promises, His Living Word, He may have a constant place, the supreme place, in our thoughts and in our affections.” Then Pink said something that really caught my attention: “The apostle prayed [Eph. 3:17-19] for the saints to have a spiritual enjoyment of Him so that He would be present and precious to the soul.”
Is there someone special in your life whose company you enjoy? You just like being near them, right? Do you enjoy Jesus like that? Do you love just being with Him? This is the ‘nearness’ we all desire. In the Song of Solomon, the Shulammite woman who represents the Bride of Christ, says: “I must seek him whom my soul loves… when I found him whom my soul loves, I held on to him and would not let him go…” (3:2, 4). And through the prophet Jeremiah, God says “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (19:13). It’s up to you: you really can be as close to God as you want to be!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Did You Know the Tower of Babel has been Rebuilt in Dubai?!
One of the largest real estate ventures in human history came to a halt last month as Dubai, a desert metropolis in the United Arab Emirates, announced it was unable to make payments on nearly $60 billion in loans. The Palm Islands are being touted as the most exciting project on earth: man-made island communities created off the shores of Dubai with tons of sand fill. Notably, another major Dubai real estate project is the completion of the world’s tallest tower—the centerpiece of the desert city that will include 30,000 homes, 9 hotels, 3 parks, 19 residential towers, and a 12-acre artificial lake. With the threat of the global depression on the horizon, the tallest building in the world may be an empty shell, and what was intended to be a monument to the creative genius of mankind now appears to be another Titanic—a monument to man’s pride and failure.
In the Garden, God gave Adam the mandate to “to rule and subdue the earth” (Gen. 1:28). After the Fall, the desire to “rule and subdue” turned inward—man seeking to establish his own greatness. Early in man’s history, this desire to ‘rule and subdue’ was manifested in building the tower of Babel—“Let us make a name for ourselves,” they said (Genesis 11:4). But God “cancelled” their building project through the confusion of languages. And the unfinished tower stood as a monument to their sinful pride.
The Dubai project and the pursuit of prosperity is evidence that this same spirit of pride is active today. And when I think of the multi-million dollar church projects, e.g., Cathedral of Faith in southern California and Lakewood Church, housed in Houston's Compaq Center, I wonder how much of that spirit may be contaminating the church growth movement today. Maybe God is speaking through the failed Dubai project that we should be wary of the spirit called “let us make a name for ourselves,” and reminding us that He “is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6).
In the Garden, God gave Adam the mandate to “to rule and subdue the earth” (Gen. 1:28). After the Fall, the desire to “rule and subdue” turned inward—man seeking to establish his own greatness. Early in man’s history, this desire to ‘rule and subdue’ was manifested in building the tower of Babel—“Let us make a name for ourselves,” they said (Genesis 11:4). But God “cancelled” their building project through the confusion of languages. And the unfinished tower stood as a monument to their sinful pride.
The Dubai project and the pursuit of prosperity is evidence that this same spirit of pride is active today. And when I think of the multi-million dollar church projects, e.g., Cathedral of Faith in southern California and Lakewood Church, housed in Houston's Compaq Center, I wonder how much of that spirit may be contaminating the church growth movement today. Maybe God is speaking through the failed Dubai project that we should be wary of the spirit called “let us make a name for ourselves,” and reminding us that He “is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6).
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Are You Guilty of Speaking Careless Words?
This week another (allegedly) abusive police action was caught ‘on tape’ (a now defunct expression)! With web-connected digital cameras and camcorders built into every cell phone, every action and word can be recorded and stored forever. It has never been more necessary to “think before you speak.” In the words of Jesus: “…every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the Day of Judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matt. 12:36-37).
How many careless words have I spoken in my lifetime: dozens, hundreds, thousands? Maybe I should just talk less. Who hasn’t said something they immediately regretted and wanted to take back? Are you guilty of shooting off an emotionally-laden email to someone, and then immediately wished you could recall it? Are the days of writing (yes, on paper!) a thoughtful letter gone forever?
Jesus words are sobering, aren’t they!? But because you and I are justified by the blood of Jesus, we will not face such condemnation (Romans 5:1, 9; 8:1, 30). Before you get too giddy, let me say you are not off the hook for your careless words.
The New Testament letters are full of admonitions to be careful how we speak. Though we may escape “condemnation,” we are admonished to bear Jesus’ image in our speech (1 Tim. 4:12), to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15); be “slow to speak” (James 1:19); not to “speak evil against another” (James 4:11), and to speak “only what is helpful for building others up” (Eph. 4:29 NIV). And finally, careless words result in a loss of intimacy with Jesus, broken fellowship with the very people we are called to love, not to mention the loss of eternal rewards (1 Cor. 3:14-16). Be careful to think before you hit that “send” button.
How many careless words have I spoken in my lifetime: dozens, hundreds, thousands? Maybe I should just talk less. Who hasn’t said something they immediately regretted and wanted to take back? Are you guilty of shooting off an emotionally-laden email to someone, and then immediately wished you could recall it? Are the days of writing (yes, on paper!) a thoughtful letter gone forever?
Jesus words are sobering, aren’t they!? But because you and I are justified by the blood of Jesus, we will not face such condemnation (Romans 5:1, 9; 8:1, 30). Before you get too giddy, let me say you are not off the hook for your careless words.
The New Testament letters are full of admonitions to be careful how we speak. Though we may escape “condemnation,” we are admonished to bear Jesus’ image in our speech (1 Tim. 4:12), to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15); be “slow to speak” (James 1:19); not to “speak evil against another” (James 4:11), and to speak “only what is helpful for building others up” (Eph. 4:29 NIV). And finally, careless words result in a loss of intimacy with Jesus, broken fellowship with the very people we are called to love, not to mention the loss of eternal rewards (1 Cor. 3:14-16). Be careful to think before you hit that “send” button.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
"Where's the Beef?
"Where's the beef?" is a catch phrase which has come to mean "Where's the substance?" It came to public attention in a 1980s television commercial for the Wendy's chain of hamburger restaurants, featuring the elderly actress Clara Peller. After receiving a competitor's burger with a massive bun, the small patty prompts the gruff Peller to angrily exclaim "Where's the beef?" The humorous ad and Peller's memorable character soon gave the catch-phrase a life of its own, and was repeated ad nauseam in countless TV shows, films, magazines, and other media outlets.
Toward the end of His ministry, Jesus said “when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" (Lk. 18:8). Since Jesus will obviously find believers on the earth (people who have faith in Christ) when He comes, how are we to interpret this verse?
The writer of Hebrews says faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Heb. 11:1 NKJ). When Jesus returns will He find people who have substantial faith? Faith becomes “substantial” when the things in the unseen realm become more real to us than the things we can see. And when Jesus returns, this is what He will be looking for: people who walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor. 5:7). Stop for a moment and consider the substance of your faith as evidenced by what you see? If that which is visible to you is more real than that which is not, where is the substance of your faith? In other words, where's the beef?
Toward the end of His ministry, Jesus said “when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" (Lk. 18:8). Since Jesus will obviously find believers on the earth (people who have faith in Christ) when He comes, how are we to interpret this verse?
The writer of Hebrews says faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Heb. 11:1 NKJ). When Jesus returns will He find people who have substantial faith? Faith becomes “substantial” when the things in the unseen realm become more real to us than the things we can see. And when Jesus returns, this is what He will be looking for: people who walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor. 5:7). Stop for a moment and consider the substance of your faith as evidenced by what you see? If that which is visible to you is more real than that which is not, where is the substance of your faith? In other words, where's the beef?
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