The End of the World or a World without End!

All this talk about the end of the world should have all serious Bible students reviewing the Scriptures. But they won't find the words “end of the world.” Why? Because the world has already ended.

Yes, you heard me right. The world is over, done, deceased. Because of the cross, Paul said the world had been crucified to him, and he to the world (Gal. 6:14). You see, the end happened at Calvary when Jesus said “It is finished.” In an instant, He died to this world—and the world's influence was dead to Him. John says “as He is so are we in this world” (1 Jn 4:17). That day the world ended for you and me too—the day Jesus destroyed the power of the devil, of death, and of sin (Heb. 2:14; Rom 6:6).

But of course there is yet an ‘end’ we are waiting for. Peter says, we are  looking for the coming day when Jesus will set the heavens on fire, the elements will melt away, and a new heaven and earth will be formed (2 Pet 3:12-13). So when someone accuses you of being a doomsdayer. Tell them you are not waiting for the ‘end of the world’ but for a ‘world without end’ (Eph. 3:21). 

“For unto us a child is born, a son is given. And the government will be on his shoulders...
[And] of the increase of His government and peace there will be NO END” (Isa 9:7). 

Merry Christmas to you all from me and Altha!

When Anxiety Looms, Faith Blooms

The mainstream media is warning of dire consequences of a fiscal disaster if our leaders are unable to overcome bipartisan bickering and  pass a budget. Though no one can see what is on the other side of the cliff, they are imagining it to be pretty bleak.

Thus, our Father’s promise to protect and provide for us has never seemed more comforting—rescuing us from the wrath to come (1 Thess. 1:10) and meeting all our needs in the mean time (Matt. 6:31-33).

When the believers in the early churches were facing insecure times, Paul counseled them to “fix your eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Cor. 4:18) Remembering that this world is temporary is one of the ways our hearts and minds will be protected from anxiety (Phil. 4:8).

Can’t you almost hear the Lord saying to us, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Is. 41:10).

There oughta be a law

The slayings of 20 children and 6 adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School have reignited the debate on gun control—specifically, a ban on assault weapons. Whenever innocent people are affected by some terrible tragedy, politicians and citizens alike say, “There oughta be a law.”

Coincidentally, also in today’s USA is an article about curbing drunkenness in Britian by legislating higher prices, assuming drinkers will drink less. We may agree that there oughta be a law, but we know that no law can change a heart: drinkers drink and killers kill.

And finally, another article in today's paper reports that mass killings (where 4 or more are killed) in America are now happening every two weeks. Is the increased violence the sign of the end times called the “power of lawlessness” (2 Thess. 2:7)?  If so, no man-made law will stop it.  Only God can do that when he put His law in our minds and writes it on our hearts" (Jer 31:33).

An Unused Gift on the Top Shelf

Have you noticed that when tragedy occurs, like that at Sandy Hook, faith shows up?  Crises bring it out. In their helplessness, people turn to God. But where is faith the rest of the time?

Have you ever given a gift to a close friend, sibling, or parent that you never saw him or her using until one day you happen to notice it on the top shelf of their closet—unopened and unused? You tried to hide your disappointed. But I wonder if this is not how many Christians deal with God’s most precious gift to them—the gift of faith (Eph. 2:8). God is no less disappointed (Heb. 11:6) that we put His gift, metaphorically speaking, on a top shelf—unused!

During one life-threatening crisis, the Disciples panicked and cried  out to Jesus. After calming things, he asked, "Where is your faith?” (Luke 8:24-25). Then on another helpless occasion, they asked the Lord to increase their faith! But the Lord responded by saying even the smallest faith, if used, could produce great things (Luke 17:5-6). In other words, if we were using the gift of faith, He would never have to say “Where is your faith,” or “What did you do with the faith I already gave you?”

A Hard Question at Sandy Hook

After the Sandy Hook school shootings, on “Yahoo Answers,” one woman writes: “Why did God allow this sort of devastation? I don't believe in Him after this.” The ‘why’ question is as old as time. In the Bible, it was asked by Job and the Psalmists; and in our time, by those who witnessed two World Wars, the Holocaust, genocides, famines, AIDS, and senseless carnage of 9/11, Columbine, Virginia State, Aurora, and now, Sandy Hook.

Yes, indeed, the single most troubling question today is, “If God knows everything, why did He allow this tragedy in Sandy Hook to happen?” Though innumerable tomes have been written on the subject, the simple answer to this question is, “We don’t know.” But, then, what do we know?

First, we know that we “now we see things imperfectly... but some day we will see everything clearly. All that we know now is incomplete, but then we will know everything completely, just as God knows” (1 Cor 13:12). And second, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Ro 8:28). For those who do not know these things, it's not surprising they will be angry with God. But here's another hard question. Why does the same suffering that causes one person to reject God cause another to seek Him? Pray that those who are asking hard questions today will find Him.

Christmas Presence in the Mall

Black Friday is appropriately named—it’s the gross over-commercialization of Christmas. But it’s only a symbol of the larger problem. The eternal spirit of Christmas has become temporal and material. The secularization of Christmas—now called a holiday—re-focuses the most celebrated Christian day of the year from rejoicing in God’s Presence to celebrating man’s presents.  “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name 'Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us’” (Matt 1:23).

As I was reflecting on the impoverished condition of Christmas in our nation—trees, lights, pretty paper, Santa Claus, elves, etc.—I was sent the following YouTube video. Right in the middle of a large mall in ‘Anywhere America’ a group of Christians begins singing the songs of Christmas, of Christ, of good news. As you will see, right in the midst of busy shoppers purchasing passing presents, God’s surpassing Presence prevails. Please take a moment to watch it. You won’t be disappointed.

“Christmas Flash Mob by Journey of Faith at South Bay Galleria”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vnt7euRF5Pg

12/12/12

Yesterday was 12/12/12. And a record number of people wanted to be married on that date, as though there was something magical about 3 twelves. 

According to Biblical numerologist E.W. Bullinger, the number 12 in the Bible signifies perfect government. It’s the product of 3, the Trinity, and 4, the number of the Earth; thus symbolizing the perfect order that exists when God is working through His people to direct human affairs, i.e. 12 tribes of Israel and 12 apostles of the Church. Whenever Jesus does return to rule the earth, maybe it will be on a twelfth.

Of course the 12th is followed by the 13th!! Significantly, Bullinger says the number 13 speaks of human effort and self-will. One Old Testament example of the number 13 is quite revealing. In Genesis 16, the son that God has promised to Abraham, Isaac, was born thirteen years after Ishmael’s birth by Hagar. What better picture of failed human effort and the grace of God’s promises.

It seems to me these numbers symbolize two ways of living. We can either live each day as if it were the twelfth—under God’s direction. Or we can make our own way, hoping each day will be a lucky 13th. Hmmm…Might that be what it means to “number our days?” (Ps. 90:12).

A School for False Prophets?

Jesus warned there would be false teachers and false prophets in the latter days. Now, incredulously, a school for training prophets in Tel Aviv has just been announced. “The Cain and Able School of Prophets” claims it will prepare the next generation of Jewish foretellers—the first since the time of Jesus. Can this be for real?

First of all, with a name like “Cain and Able” (Cain’s brother, whom he killed, was Abel, not Able) the school’s credibility seems a bit suspect. Of course it’s a pun on Abel’s name, but for what purpose? Are they going to make people as bad as Cain into ‘able’ prophets?

And second, if the name doesn’t reveal it as a con, the curriculum will. For a tuition fee of $52, the program of study will include face reading, dream interpretation, the study of angels, and ways to achieve divine spirit—all in just 10 one-hour lectures. Each graduate will receive a prophet's diploma.

The Bible indicates that a wave of false prophets will rise up at the end of this age!  And Jesus said, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matt 7:16). And now it seems you may also know them by their diplomas.

Is Government Coveting our Money?

Every working American has federal, state, local, Social Security and Medicare taxes taken out of his/her paycheck. But did you know there are more than 40 other taxes we pay? To name a few: unemployment and workers compensation tax, sales, property, and utility taxes, gas taxes, and even taxes for dog licenses. The average American spends 46-58% of his or her income on taxes!

I read an interesting article yesterday that our government is guilty of breaking the 10th commandment: “You must not covet your neighbor's house… or anything that belongs to your neighbor.” And then Moses goes on to say, “You shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, who hate covetousness, to be your rulers.” (Ex. 20:17; 18:21) Clearly, God did not want coveters ruling over the people, taking what is not theirs.

I worked for the federal government for 25 years. And every year when the budgets were prepared, I watched with disgust as our Agency competed with other agencies to get more money than it got the year before—whether they needed it or not. It was nothing less than unbridled greed. Paul said the end-times would be characterized by men who are exceedingly greedy (1 Tim 3:1-2a) Is government over-taxation another sign of the times?

Are you vacationing in Las Vegas or Laodicea this year?

Last year I received a glossy brochure from an Evangelical Christian school raising funds through a silent auction. The grand prize was a weekend in Las Vegas! Last week I received a sleek brochure from an international radio ministry, announcing a Caribbean cruise. While the brochure, replete with children on water slides, young adults windsurfing, diners dressed in tuxedos, was aimed at those with discretionary income, it seemed oddly out of touch with the mood of the day.

Trips to Las Vegas? Caribbean cruises? Didn't Jesus become poor for our sake? (2 Co 8:9).  Didn't He model austerity? I have no doubt these ministries mean well. But I keep thinking the words “You foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you?” (Gal. 3:1).

Might I be so bold to suggest that our ‘first-class’ lifestyles are uncomfortably close to those described of the church at Laodicea: “You say, 'I am rich. I have everything I want. I don't need a thing!' And you don't realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked” (Rev. 3:17). I know these are harsh words. But these are harsh times, as Thomas Paine said, “these are the times that test men’s souls.” Many believe a time of great testing is about to come upon the church.

Born this Way

This week Washington became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage, furthering the debate over civil rights for gays. Last year, Lady Gaga's popular song "Born this Way" underscored the controvery over whether someone is born gay.  Personally, if a research scientist discovers a ‘gay’ gene tomorrow, I won’t be concerned. Why?—because we are all born with unique behavioral predispositions—it’s called flesh; and it causes us to sin.

For example, I was not born happy; I am, by nature, melancholic. Moreover, I am impatient, self-centered, prone to outbursts, unforgiving, and critical. These traits are natural to me, requiring no effort to perform. I was born ‘born this way.’

And I didn’t know how I would ever overcome being ‘born this way’ until I truly understood what it meant to be ‘born again.’ The Bible says everyone who is born of God is marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—all reflections of our genetic relation to Jesus. Yes, we have all been born with unwanted predispositions. But born again, we have a new start. “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person; the old life is gone; a new life has begun” (2 Cor. 5:17). But take it from me; when you decide you will no longer live the way you were born (Eph 4:17), and endeavor to live life as your “new self” (Eph. 4:24), you will experience severe growing pains!

Commotion will Spoil Your Appetite for Communion

In my college days I loved to cook dinner parties for my friends. I’ll never forget the time a coed arrived announcing she had just eaten a can of Spaghetti-O’s and was not very hungry. When she was a child I guess her mother never told her that eating before dinner would “spoil your appetite!”

I think one of the consequences of our fast-paced, commotion-filled, life-styles is how it spoils our appetite for communion with God—“If you [can] hear my voice [over the din] and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends” (Rev 3:20). I think if you took a survey on Sunday morning at almost any church, you would be surprised at the number of people who show up spent from a week of activities. And church becomes just one more—not a place of refreshing communion as it should be.

After one time of great commotion (John the Baptist had just been beheaded), the Disciples came to Jesus, reporting everything that had happened. Everything was so chaotic they hadn’t even taken time to eat. So Jesus said, “Come away to a secluded place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31). Sounds like a good idea, doesan’t it? I think I’ll schedule it in for next week.

Sensational

In 2009 Obama and Congress passed a stimulus bill of $830 billion. That was preceded, you may recall, by a 2008 loan of $700 billion (TARP) to stimulate the sluggish economy. And did you know that Obama is now asking for another stimulus bill of $500 billion in this year’s proposed budget?

But it isn’t just government trying to stimulate us. If you watch CNN or Fox cable news, you are familiar with the banners at the bottom of the screen that say “Breaking News” and “News Alert”—messages intended to stimulate our interest enough to keep us watching. And have you noticed that if there is no exciting news to report on, they sensationalize almost anything?!

As I reflected on yesterday's post about earthly stimulants, I realized how fundamental it is to human behavior. God created sensual human beings, who, with their senses, would be able to appreciate His glory (Ps 19; Rom 1:20). But it was the senses that Satan used to spoil the human race, when Eve succumbed to the serpent’s sensational suggestions. And he's still trying to fool us into following our fickle feelings. Which is why Paul says “walk by faith, not by sight [senses]” (2 Co 5:7). Wouldn't that be sensational?!

Soldiers find Purpose in Afghanistan

An article in Sunday's paper tells of a different struggle facing American soldiers returning from war: a loss of purpose and camaraderie. One soldier says, “When I was in Afghanistan as a platoon commander, I had a task; I had a purpose; every day I knew what I was going to do.” Now he says boredom is his greatest fear.

It’s a law of natural life: men seek stimulation because men need stimulation. But there is either the stimulation of the flesh or the inspiration/motivation of the Spirit. Without the latter, there will be an endless search for new and exciting activities and relationships to satisfy the flesh—to find something worth living for.

As committed Christ-followers, we are engaged in a battle—and we find our purpose and solidarity in serving our King. When we are living “kingdom life,” we are anything but bored. Rather, we enjoy a sense of urgency—just like soldiers, a warfare mentality—which is more than enough stimulation for even the most vigorous among us! Is this not what Christ demanded (Matt. 16:19) and Paul restated (2 Co 10:5; Eph 6:12)? So then, “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds… encouraging one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near” (Heb. 10:24-25).

Driving over a Cliff

All this talk about the ‘fiscal cliff’ brings to mind a story I used to use in counseling.

A wealthy man interviews 3 men for the position of limousine driver, taking each to a high mountain road, posing the question: “How close do you think you can drive to the edge of this road without going over the cliff?” The first one says,“Oh, I could get within 2 feet of the edge of the road without going over.” The second one says, “Oh, I think I could get within a foot of the edge.” But the third one responds, “Are you kidding, I wouldn’t go anywhere near the edge of this cliff!” To which, the wealthy man replies, “You’re hired!”

The “Driving over a Cliff” threat is bringing out the machismo in Wash. D.C.—a political game of Chicken. How close each party is willing to go to the edge is yet to be determined. Of course there is a loaded spiritual analogy too. The second we start thinking about how close we can get to temptation without actually sinning, we're already over the cliff. Listen to the wisdom of Solomon: “Don't follow the path of evildoers. Don’t even think about it; don't go that way. Turn away and keep moving” (Proverbs 4:14-15).

The “Half-Man” finds Wholeness

19-year old Angus T. Jones, the “Half Man” part of “Two and a Half Men,” has found God and no longer wants to be on the show: “Please stop watching it; please stop filling your head with filth,” he says. Angus stands to lose a lot for taking this stand (at $300,000 an episode, he is the highest paid child actor in TV history).

Angus now sees the show as evil: “A lot of people don't like to think about how deceptive the enemy is. He's been doing this a lot longer than any of us have been around. So we can't play around. There's no playing around when it comes to eternity. The name of the game is compromise. According to the Bible, when that happens, we're no longer standing for anything. We're no longer on the side of the truth.”

Knowing how Hollywood treats conservative Christians, Angus is in for a rough ride, and it will take a real man to stand his ground against the wave of criticism. Ironically, having been the “half-man” on a show co-starring 2 childish men, Angus is the one now acting like a “whole man.” (see 1 Cor. 6:13)

A Life without Twinkies, Ding Dong’s and Ho Ho’s

A declining consumer market and a bakers strike may result in the demise of ‘Hostess Brands, Inc.’ which makes cream-filled cupcakes, fruit pies, Wonder Bread, Ho Ho’s, Ding Dongs and Twinkies.

The Twinkie is not just a snack food; it is a cultural icon. Some of you may not remember when, in the early 80’s, Dan White was acquitted of the murder of SF Mayor George Moscone. The defense attorney was able to persuade 12 intelligent adults that too much sugar had made him temporarily insane—to this day, infamously known as the “Twinkie Defense.”

I cannot help but see the Twinkie as a symbol for our nutritionally-deprived culture—both physically and spiritually. Having grown accustomed to a diet of empty earthly values, metaphorically speaking, most Americans seek a sugar high instead of higher things. The brouhaha over Hostess’ collapse is sufficient evidence that our 21st century idols are as empty as white bread or as fleeting as a caffeine rush. How sad that people, like survivors on a stranded island, cling to such things. If you’re feeling depressed about the loss of Twinkies, perhaps you should reflect on the Apostle John’s words, “Dear children, keep yourselves from idols” (1 John 5:21).

“Life of Pi”—Faith is a House with Many Rooms

Knowing nothing more about it than what we saw on the trailers (and its PG rating), Altha and I saw the movie “Life of Pi” this weekend. It turned out to be a vehicle for postmodern theology. As the title character battles to survive on a life raft from India to Mexico, he also struggles to believe in God in the midst of his suffering.

The story begins in India where Pi develops a zeal for religion. Declaring that “faith is a house with many rooms,” Pi integrates Allah and the Christ easily into his Hindu faith, even thanking Krishna and Vishnu for bringing Christ into his life.  When he cries out to God in desperation, “I give myself to you,” it is not clear to which god he is praying. To most god seekers in our universalistic culture, it wont matter. Whom you have faith in is less important than that you have ‘it’.

Ironically, Pi's atheistic father captures the error of this thinking when he tells the young Pi that believing in everything is “the same thing as not believing anything at all.” And that statement may be the only ‘truth’ you’ll find in the “Life of Pi.”

Is the Afterlife Just an Afterthought?

Thanksgiving is over; Christmas will be here and gone before we know it. Life moves on; time flies…

The Bible tells us that our days on earth are short: "We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in the land as our ancestors were before us. Our days on earth are like a passing shadow, gone so soon without a trace" (1 Chron 29:15 NLT).

Paul says we all will give an account for our time on earth—whether we were storing up things ‘in time,’ or saving up ‘eternal’ treasures. The measure of our worth will not be our cleverness, charisma or competence, but our character.

Paul compares building a character to building a house (1 Cor 3). Either we’re building a house of eternal worth or a house that will perish with time. Someone has said the Lord inspects our house by walking through it and throwing matches. Will the house you are building survive the test of holy fire? Sadly, too many believers live as though life on this earth is all there is. And the afterlife is just an afterthought.

Gratitude without God?

When Congress passed legislation making Thanksgiving an official holiday, was it an attempt to codify feelings, i.e., ‘you must be thankful?’ No. Congress was only affirming thankfulness as a national core value, an expression of America’s Judeo-Christian heritage.

Does that mean non-Christians can’t be thankful? Well, of course not. But last century’s paradigm shift from a God-centered worldview to a man-centered one has secularized Thanksgiving far beyond a Pilgrim’s paradigm. The Pilgrims who celebrated that first Thanksgiving believed everything they had came from God, a gratitude built on a foundation of belief in God's Providence.

Of course the ungodly can be thankful. But unlike them, hopefully, you and I are like the original pilgrims who knew they were on a journey to something/someplace far greater than the things of this world. Thus, while our gratitude is rooted in the eternal, the natural man knows only situation and luck. Jonathon Edwards says “true gratitude or thankfulness … arises from a foundation of love to God whereas a natural gratitude has no such antecedent foundation.” Let us be thankful for what we have. But let us be more grateful for what awaits us.

The Rejection Test

With the advent of the Holiday season, family gatherings will produce warm feelings and memories for many.  But for some others, they will arouse unpleasant feelings, often of rejection.

As disciples of Jesus, we are students who never stop learning. And one of God’s methods for showing us what we’ve learned is to give us tests (sometimes pop quizzes). These tests show us what is in our hearts.

One of the most important tests that you will ever take is the “rejection” test. If you look at the patriarchs and prophets, you will see that every one of them was rejected. And of Jesus, Isaiah said, “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces, he was despised...” (53:3).

So, the rejection test is mandatory if we are going to identify with Jesus. Through the greatest injustice ever known to man Jesus endured and overcame. And through the worst wrongs committed against us, our character will be proven (Rom. 3:5).  But, God will not give us the 'rejection' test until He knows we are ready for it.  And passing it is a mark of true maturity.

Israel/Hamas War: Is Armageddon near?

In 1967, when I was a college freshman, the Arab-Israeli War, aka, the 'Six-Day War' made us think Armageddon was near. Since then, increased wars in the region have decreased our attention—until now. With the escalation of war between Israel and Hamas now accompanied by the support of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, weapons from Iran, and the instability in Syria, one wonders. Is Armageddon close?

But before we start heading for our underground bunkers, let’s put this in perspective. The Bible says the last days will see paradigm shifts that eradicate a biblical worldview. First, mankind will change from lovers of God to lovers of self (2 Tim. 3:1-4). Second, the Church will experience a great falling away (2 Tim. 4:3-4). And third, Society will see a moral devolution like the days of Noah (Luke 17:26).

Though the events of the Middle East do intensify end-time assertions, we should remember that “wars and rumors of wars” are only a small part of 'last days' prophecy. More important is the bigger picture—not another war in the Middle East. Keep your eyes on the paradigm shifts that will prepare the way for the Antichrist and a new world order. Armageddon will follow.

He Can’t Stop Thinking about You

“O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar… How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. How vast is the sum of them. If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain” (Psalm 139: 2-3, 17-18).

I read a commentary on this verse that struck me. If you live to be 75 years old, you will live 2.3 billion seconds. And since there are trillions upon trillions of grains of sand, that means there will never be a moment in time when you are not on His mind! In other words, He can’t stop thinking about you.

And not only that, His thoughts are perpetually positive. The New Kings James version translates Jeremiah 29:11 this way: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Hard Changes Ahead

Some of the pundits are saying that Barak Obama won the election because people are afraid of change. Did the President convince 52% of the electorate that they should not “trade horses in midstream’? That phrase was Abraham Lincoln's slogan in the 1864 presidential campaign! Three decades later, the phrase “Let Well Enough Alone” got President William McKinley elected for a second term. And, considering how Democrats demonized Romney, perhaps their slogan should have been: “Better to trust the devil you know than the devil you don’t.”

Given a choice, people more often choose the status quo, preferring a known path to an uncertain one. Someone called it the “tyranny of the familiar.” In the discipline of psychology, there is a word for this phenomenon: “resistance.” Thus, no counselor is ever surprised by his patient’s resistance to changing even the worst behaviors.

The question a serious disciple will ask is ‘how do I overcome my resistance?’ The short answer: by the power of the Word and the Holy Spirit—“renewing of the mind” (Rom 12:2). If you are facing a hard change in your life, be assured the Holy Spirit will facilitate it. Hannah Whitall Smith says, “He turns hard things into easy... not that He puts easy things in the place of the hard, but He actually changes the hard thing into an easy one.” Think about it. The path of least resistance is a straight one. “In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:6).

Was Petraeus Poisoned by Power?

General Petraeus joins the list of proud, powerful men who thought they were entitled to anything and invulnerable to its consequences, e.g., Bill Clinton, John Edwards, Elliot Spitzer.  Of course it doesn't always lead to adultery. Currently, three other 4-star generals are under investigation for taking government resources for personal use. Nor is it limited to government leaders. Anyone in a position of authority—policemen, doctors, teachers, clergymen—can abuse it.

As a student of human behavior, it appears to me that a culture that values self-esteem as ours does is a breeding ground for such entitlement—even in Christian leaders. Remember the warning by Paul that in the latter days, men would be lovers of self (2 Tim 3:2)? When God gave the Promised Land to the Israelites, He knew they would be vulnerable to the pride of success.

Thus He warned: “Beware that in your plenty you do not forget your God… For when you have become prosperous and have built fine homes to live in… be careful! Do not become proud at that time and forget the Lord your God, who rescued you... and did it all so you would never say to yourself, 'I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy’… Remember the Lord is the one who gives you power to be successful” (Deut. 8:11-17, edited).

Are You Ready for the Rapture?

Yesterday I compared “disaster preparedness” to “rapture readiness.” And then today, the lead story in USA Today reads, “For 'preppers,' every day could be doomsday.” Preppers (or survivalists) are those who are actively preparing for emergencies as well as possible disruptions in social or political order, stockpiling food and water and medical supplies in order to be self-sufficient.  Many 'preppers' build safe houses in remote places or underground.

A retired deputy sheriff from Virginia says his Christian faith drives him to be prepared and to encourage others to do the same. Although he is not certain the end is near, he says "we watch and pray," convinced that being prepared is being responsibile. But concern for apocalyptic destruction is not just for passionate ‘preppers.’ Nine out of 10 Americans expect a world disaster to occur in the next 25 years. Even so, 56% of them say they're not prepared.

While I find the “Survivalist Movement” interesting, I am not convinced that current conditions warrant moving to the mountains of Idaho to grow corn and raise chickens. The Bible says planet earth is doomed for destruction. But it also says Jesus will return before then. And all that really matters is that I am ready for Him.  Being prepared is being responsible!

Where are the Watchmen of our times?

Did you know 2010 was the worst year for natural disasters in 100 years: heat waves, floods, volcanoes, typhoons, blizzards, landslides, droughts, and earthquakes (remember Haiti? 250,000 killed). Then the year 2011 was the worst for tornadoes in 100 years (remember Joplin, Mo.). And Japan suffered the worst earthquake/tsunami in its recorded history. And 2012 will be known as the year of droughts, floods and fires, and Sandy, who finished off the hurricane season with an unparalleled wallop on the North Atlantic.

These natural disasters are often referred to by the media as the fury of “Mother Nature.” Insurance companies, who are a bit more sophisticated, label them ‘Acts of God.’ Yet, no intelligent earthling would actually see them as divine events. Should we? Is God trying to get our attention?

Because of modern technology, FEMA can warn people to get ready (except earthquakes).  Is God warning us to get ready for end times? Are our church leaders warning us to get ready? Ezekiel spoke of watchman who saw the sword coming, but did not blow the trumpet so that the people would be warned, and the sword came and took them away (33:6). Where are the watchmen of our times? “You must keep watch, and be on the alert, for you do not know the day or hour of My return” (Matt 25:13).

Forgiveness: Pay it Forward

Is there anything harder than having to forgive someone who does not apologize, or even admit that what they did hurt us? Or, isn’t it aggravating when the offender begins his or her apology with the word “IF”—if I have offended you”—signaling that they are less sorry about what they did than having to apologize.

Unilateral forgiveness is hard. But since we are awash in God's love and acceptance, we have more than enough of His love to extend to another. Hence, we forgive people whether they are sorry or not, whether they apologize or not.  Forgiveness is the ‘currency’ of God’s economy of love. As God spent His love on us, so can we on others, paying it forward. Thus the offending person’s actions or reactions become, objectively, irrelevant.

And lest some very hurt person should read this and sink into despair, be encouraged: forgiveness is not a feeling; it’s a choice and an act of faith. Yes, it may be the hardest thing you ever do, but when your faith is tested in this way, you will become perfectly secure in God’s love and acceptance.

No Time for Slouching!

The election is over. Most of us took a stand on issues. The outcome of the election has not changed our posture. We’re still ‘standing firm’ (Eph. 6:11-14). Up ahead, it may get a lot harder to stand against a cultural of moral indifference and tolerance.

People will say, 'But isn't your God tolerant?' No. He specifically says “I will not tolerate… sin, idolatry, bribery, evil...” In fact, under Jewish law, the punishment for tolerating false gods was death (Deut. 13:10). Aren’t you glad not to be living in 1500 BC? Indeed, we are privileged to be living in the age of grace. But forbearance and forgiveness have not  given way to God's Holy posture. 

There has never been a more important time to maintain good posture, “standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together... in no way alarmed by our opponents, which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for us” (Phil. 1:27-28).  There's no time for slouching.

Winning is everything—or is it?

Depending on your political persuasion you are either rejoicing or lamenting over President Obama's ‘win’ yesterday. The world says “Winning isn't everything, it's the only thing.” As the end of his life neared, Vince Lombardi said, “I wished I'd never said that; I sure didn't mean for people to crush human values and morality.” But this ‘winning at all costs’ philosophy was palpable in the campaign of 2012.

At one point in the campaign Governor Romney said, “It’s not so much winning and losing… it's about something bigger…” I wonder if he was aware of the profundity of his words.

Would it surprise you that the word “winner” is not in the Bible? Can you imagine Jesus saying to Peter: “Now, go out there and win one for the Gipper!” Jesus redefined life. It was not about winning, but doing the will of His Father (Matt 12:50; Heb 10:9).

To those with an eternal perspective, it’s only and always about God’s plans. And though they are not always clear to us, we can be sure He has them. “For I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jer. 29:11).

A House Built on the Sand

An old hymn declares “On Christ the Solid Rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand”—this being a reference to Jesus’ parable of those who build their houses on the sands of human effort and short-sightedness, rather than on the eternal rock, Jesus Christ.

Though I wouldn't want to diminish the pain of anyone whose waterfront property was destroyed by Sandy, it’s impossible not to see a spiritual analogy, as you hear the words “We have lost everything.”  Earthlings are embedded in a world that is passing away, personally and corporately: the flimsy foundation underlying the integrity of the U.S. economy will be severely tested by Sandy's damage.

The Bible refers to God as a Rock (strong and reliable), and to Jesus as the Cornerstone the builders rejected (1 Pet 2:7). In the beginning, our nation was built on a solid foundation of Judeo Christian principles. That foundation is gradually being rejected, and replaced by the shifting sands of peoples' opinions, resulting in a spiritual 'housing collapse.'

The Day After the Election

This is one of the most important elections in the history of our nation. The next president and congress will not only face monumental conflicts at home and abroad, but 55 days after the election, unless there is a break in the partisan gridlock, prior tax cuts will expire, effecting a $500 billion tax increase, and the first installment of a $4 trillion reduction in spending will kick in.  A perfect storm (one that will make Sandy look like a breezy day at the beach) is brewing.

At such times I am reminded of David's words: “I do not involve myself in great matters or in things too difficult for me” (Psalm 131:1). 

So, like you, I’ll vote my conscience, trying to discern God's will, resting assured that no matter what happens on November 6, God will still be in control on November 7—because, in the end, I am neither Democrat nor Republican, but a monarchist waiting for the coming of my King.

Don’t’ “Fall Back”

Tomorrow, most of you in the U.S. will be turning your clocks back one hour: it is the end of Day Light Savings. (In March, we set our clocks ahead one hour.) Thus the expression, “Spring forward; Fall back.” This clever phrase brings to mind a practical spiritual principle: whenever we are in a season of hard growth (making progress) we will be tempted to turn back to something familiar (regress).

Upon ‘discovering’ this principle, Sigmund Freud ‘coined’ the term “regression” as the  psychological tendency to “revert to an earlier stage of development rather than handling unacceptable impulses in a more adult manner.”

Centuries before Freud, Paul spoke of regression. He called it "turning" or "shrinking back."  Its opposite is “endurance.” In other words, at any given time, we are either enduring (which results in progress) or regressing. Then Paul declares: “But we are not of those who shrink back… but we are those who … endure” (Hebrews 10:39, 36). In other words, by God's grace, we won’t “fall back.”

Moving Mountains

The writer of Psalm 73 was bothered that he was having so many troubles while the ungodly were enjoying an easy life. Feeling abandoned by God, he was ready to give up. It seemed like all of his diligence, obedience, prayers, and Bible reading were in vain—he was running out of patience.

We've all been there. At such times, it seems like there is a mountain between us and the place we want to be—and we just don’t have the strength to get over it. Jesus said, “If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible” (Matt. 17:20).

Jesus said our faith is like a seed, when planted in fertile soil, morphs into a plant or tree. He is saying that when we put even a little faith (that may be all we have!) into action, it will grow strong enough to empower us to move a mountain.

What is the mountain in your life? Loneliness, loss of a job, sickness, wounded relationship? Be encouraged. “Faith comes by hearing…the Word of God” (Ro. 10:17). And that Word will speak to your impossibilities. And nothing is impossible for God!

The Paranormalization of America

Halloween may be over, but not America’s obsession with the paranormal. Last month, two animated films about the paranormal were released: Hotel Transylvania about monster/human relations; and Frankenweenie, where dead animals are brought back to life. In the last decade, blockbuster films about witches, warlocks, and vampires became common fodder for our children and teenagers.

In the last half century, the increased fascination with aliens, global invasions, and genetic alterations has been startling. Without a doubt, paranormalization has reduced fear and skepticism of the weird and sensational! ‘So what?’ you say.

Some Bible scholars think the end times, “like the days of Noah,” may include the reintroduction of what-were-possibly fallen angels (Nephilim) on the earth. Whether this forebodes a demonic manifestation in end times is not clear. But if that were to happen, paranormalization could result in naive acceptance. And even if that doesn't happen, paranormalization is still a serious concern. Many Christians have been numbed to the reality and severity of spiritual warfare.

Halloween is not Just for Kids Anymore

Due to the adultification of Halloween, it has become an $8 billion a year industry—a commercial success second only to Christmas. In USA Today, one consumer anthropologist said, “the enjoyment of the holiday has its roots in a culture of folks desperate to act out their true feelings—a way for people to be more themselves, as if they’re saying this is who I really am.” That logic might make sense if a man puts on a superman costume, but what does it say about a man who dresses up as a warlock or a woman who mimics Marilyn Monroe or Broomhilda!?

What a sad psychological state we’ve come to. The truth is, people aren’t putting on masks to show who they are, but to hide the mask underneath—the one they wear every day. When people go to work, they put on their masks—pretending to be happy, or competent, or cool; others wear them to hide hurts or low self-esteem. And, unfortunately, too many feel they have to wear their masks to church too.

All this hiding must grieve God. Remember when He found Adam hiding in a costume of fig leaves? We may laugh at that. But when we have done something displeasing to God, what is our reaction?  Do we run to Him to be reconciled?  Or, do we avoid Him? “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before His eyes… So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God to receive His mercy whenever we feel like hiding” (Heb. 4:13, 16, edited by me).

What will be Hurricane Sandy’s Affect?

Have you noticed that the media are no longer referring to Hurricane Sandy as “Frankenstorm?” That would trivialize a storm that portends to be the worst to hit the Mid-Atlantic in 200 years—and there is nothing cute or funny about Sandy!

Sandy’s winds, in excess of 80 mph, are expected to cause power outages for millions of Americans. Government offices in the Nation’s capitol are closed, as are schools. Wall Street is closed, along with NYC and New Jersey public transportation, including the cancelation of more than 9,000 flights. Adding bad to worse, a cold front moving in from the West is threatening to drop up to 2 feet of snow. The economic losses are expected to be $20 billion. Occurring just days before the presidential elections, no one is even trying to guess what affect it will have on voting turnout.  

As I read this morning’s news articles about Sandy’s affects on all of the above, it occurred to me that no one is speaking of the spiritual affect. Will it cause people to pray? Will it cause people to reevaluate what is important in life? Could Sandy be a reminder that our fate is not determined by the outcome of a national election, but by our omniscient and omnipotent God?

“Failure is not an Option”

By now everyone knows that cyclist Lance Armstrong, 7-time winner of the Tour de France, has been stripped of his titles and banned from the sport for using steroids. He is the world’s most famous cheater. The adage “It’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game that matters” has been replaced by Vince Lombardi’s “Winning is the only thing that matters.”

Recent research shows that over 75% of college students admit cheating in high school, up from 20% in 1950. Why the increase? Is it possible we have taught them that “failure is not an option.” Several years ago, I had a surge of high school seniors coming in to my counseling office—the presenting problem was anxiety, and the common theme was fear of failure.

Do you know that failure is built into God’s plan of redemption? The Bible is replete with leaders who failed and recovered—Abraham, Jacob, Moses, David, Peter. Cheating may be as old as Adam, but in 2012, it seems epidemic. People don't cheat just to win; they cheat to avoid failure. And without knowing God's grace, failure is not an option. But for those of us who have failed and recovered (many times!), we know the secret of success is found in God's unconditional love and acceptance.

Something to Crow About

Remember all the brouhaha that stirred up everyone’s feathers last month when Chick-fil-A’s CEO said his company had donated money to organizations that held to a biblical view of marriage? Many gay rights groups called for boycotts. But supporters flocked to the stores.

While the public relations experts were convinced it would be Chick-fil-A’s undoing, it appears the ‘bad’ PR helped the fried chicken chain. Consumption of Chick-fil-A chicken was up 2.2% over this time last year. 

Is Chick-fil-A getting a juicy piece of justice after so many people cried ‘fowl.’

The commandments of the Lord are more desirable than the finest gold, sweeter than honey dripping from the comb [or a biscuit]. They are a great reward for those who obey them” (Psalm 19:10-11 edited).

Pearls and Pigs

As we live in formidable times, it’s not surprising people ask if God is in control. The answer is an unambiguous yes and no. Satan, called the “god of this world” (2 Co 4:4), is presently running rampant ‘on earth.’ John explains, “We know that the whole world is under the control of the evil one” (1 John 5:19). Who can refute it—the world is an evil place, full of sinners and sinful consequences. But in the midst of a sinful world, God controls events and is moving history toward its ultimate; all of Satan’s schemes will be turned around for God’s good.

The truth of God’s Sovereignty is one that mystifies believers, so how could we expect 'pagans' to comprehend it. That didn’t seem to stop Connecticut Republican Senate candidate Richard Mourdock from trying to answer a question about abortion in the event of rape. He said, admittedly clumsily, “life is a gift from God. And, I think, even when life begins in that horrible situation of rape, that it is something that God intended to happen.” ‘Oops’ would be an understatement!

Jesus said, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs” (Matt. 7:6). Reconciling God’s loving-kindness and His mercy with his absolute sovereignty is indeed a sacred truth, but it is also a “hard saying.” Did Mourdock err by throwing a pearl to a pig? Of course the “pigs” are the “people who aren't spiritual [and] can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them” (2 Co 2:14). Maybe Mourdock should have been a little ‘slower to speak’ (James 1:19).

Why Vote?

The Billy Graham Association is pushing, not so indiscreetly, for you to vote for Romney. They took out a full page ad in newspapers across the land to encourage Christians to vote for candidates that support the biblical view of marriage.

In this election, there are moral issues on the table. Obama has taken a supportive stance on gay marriage. And, he is fully committed to furthering “women’s health rights”—a not-so-disguised term for providing every teen-age girl birth control and abortion. However, Romney has indicated that restricting current abortion rights is not on his agenda either. All things considered, even if Billy Graham himself was running for president, it is unlikely we can turn the moral tide. I admit, I've struggled with the question: why vote?

Some Christians who promote Dominion Theology use Old Testament passages to compare the U.S. to Israel, believing God will heal our nation if we vote in the right persons. But in ancient Israel, the moral and judicial rules were set by the Mosaic Law—not by congresses or courts, and certainly not by popular vote. Israel was promised national healing only if they repented and returned to God’s Law (2 Chronicles 7:14). That won’t happen in America (repentance is not on either candidate's short list!). So then, why vote?  because... voting is our chance to take a stand on issues we know are God’s will. And in that sense, our vote becomes a prayer: “Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

A Famine in the Land

A recent Pew Forum study reveals that the average churchgoer is ignorant of people like Job, Abraham and Moses; he thinks Sodom and Gomorrah were a husband and wife; and that the statement “God helps those who help themselves” is in the Bible. Living in the “Information Age” doesn’t seem to have averted a dearth of Bible knowledge.

During a time of prosperity in Israel (just like today), the Prophet Amos predicted there would be a famine, not for bread or water, but for hearing the word of God: “Beautiful girls and strong young men will grow faint in that day, thirsting for the Lord's word” (11-13). Why the emphasis on young people? Could it be they were the ones searching for meaning in life—something worth living for, or even to die for? Even though his prophecy is specific to Israel, it’s not hard to see a modern parallel.

Today’s millennial generation has more access to Bible knowledge, 'spiritual nourishment,' than any generation in history. But they also have more distractions to quench their appetite. God says, “My people go into captivity for their lack of knowledge—famished and parched with thirst… [but] blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness; they shall be satisfied” (Is. 55:2; Matt. 5:6).

Knowledge and People Travel Fast

Google CEO Eric Schmidt describes his life in the future: his bed will wake him up when he cycles out of R.E.M. sleep; a driverless car will take him to work; returning phone calls and scheduling events will be done by robots; and he will swallow a microchip to monitor his health and alert his doctor if anything is wrong. Thirty years ago such talk would have seemed ridiculous—but not anymore.  Such things are now quite believable.

God told His prophet Daniel that certain mysteries regarding the last days would be “revealed” when “knowledge increases” and men travel “back and forth” (Daniel 12:4). No one can argue that there has not been an exponential increase of both knowledge and speed. The cross-Atlantic voyage that took Columbus months is now done in a few hours!

And the increase of knowledge has been advanced by chip technology. We are living in ‘The Information Age.’  Knowledge is exploding in every direction. While Daniel’s phrase ‘increased knowledge’ means that some portions of the book of Daniel would not to be understood until the time of the end, many Bible scholars believe it also applies to an increasing knowledge of science, medicine, travel, and technology. If we have not reached that time yet, we must be amazingly close.