The current economic recession is stirring up a lot of discontent. Discontent can be traced all the way back to the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve had everything they needed, and and yet Satan stirred up discontent in their hearts. Though fully satisfied by God’s Presence and Provision, Satan convinced them it wasn't enough; they sinned; and immediately became “needy.”
Jesus knew about the neediness of men. When Satan tried to meet His need for hunger, Jesus responded: "Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4), and later told the Disciples, "I have meat to eat that you know not of" (John 4:32). In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said God knows all the things “you have need of,” promising that for those who seek first the kingdom of God, all these needs would be taken care of. On another occasion, Martha needed Jesus' affirmation for her good works; Mary only needed Jesus' Presence to be satisfied.
Is it wrong to want people or possessions to meet our needs? Not necessarily. But we should not expect to be fulfilled by them. People and possessions are gifts of life, not the source of life. Only when we focus on Jesus Christ as the source of life can we expect to be satisfied. As we look to persons or possessions to meet our needs, the only thing we can expect is disappointment. But as we look to Jesus to satisfy us, the greater our peace of mind and joy of heart. The current crisis many of you are experiencing is a test: will you be satisfied with Jesus Presence and Provision? Be careful: Satan will try to stir up discontent.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Obama Answers Question on Why He’s a Christian
Yesterday, at a ‘backyard conversation’ meeting in Albuquerque, when Obama was asked why he’s a Christian, He replied: “it was because the precepts of Jesus Christ spoke to me in terms of the kind of life that I would want to lead—being my brother's and sister's keeper, treating others as they would treat me. And I think also understanding that, you know, that Jesus Christ dying for my sins spoke to the humility we all have to have as human beings—that we're sinful and we're flawed and we make mistakes, and that we achieve salvation through the grace of God."
While there seems to be nothing terribly 'personal' in his answer, that is not what struck me. No, as I thought about his answer, I realized that Jesus never called people to become Christians! The designation “Christian” was first used by the church in Antioch, many years after Christ’s death and resurrection. And did you know that the word “Christian” is used only three times in the New Testament?
Jesus called men and women to be His disciples. Now I do realize that the words “Christian” and “disciple” are used interchangeably. But I think the difficulty in determining whether someone is a Christian or not will be resolved as we look at Jesus’ requirements for His disciples, realizing that if someone is not a disciple, he is not a Christian! Look at Jesus' definition of a disciple, and decide for yourself whether Obama (or you, for that matter) matches up.
If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. Likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple (Luke 14:26-27, 33). Seems there's a whole lot more to being a Christian than Obama (or some of us) realizes!
While there seems to be nothing terribly 'personal' in his answer, that is not what struck me. No, as I thought about his answer, I realized that Jesus never called people to become Christians! The designation “Christian” was first used by the church in Antioch, many years after Christ’s death and resurrection. And did you know that the word “Christian” is used only three times in the New Testament?
Jesus called men and women to be His disciples. Now I do realize that the words “Christian” and “disciple” are used interchangeably. But I think the difficulty in determining whether someone is a Christian or not will be resolved as we look at Jesus’ requirements for His disciples, realizing that if someone is not a disciple, he is not a Christian! Look at Jesus' definition of a disciple, and decide for yourself whether Obama (or you, for that matter) matches up.
If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. Likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple (Luke 14:26-27, 33). Seems there's a whole lot more to being a Christian than Obama (or some of us) realizes!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
If You Want to See Jesus
Author Chip Ricks tells the following story:
Leonardo da Vinci had a violent quarrel with a fellow painter shortly before he began work on The Last Supper. As he began to paint, his anger led him to paint the face of the man who was now his enemy into the face of Judas. This was da Vinci's revenge, and he was gleeful over what he had done. But when he started to paint the face of Christ, his best efforts failed. He could no longer see the Savior he longed to honor. Through his struggle, he realized that he must forgive his fellow painter and erase his face from that of Judas. Only then was da Vinci able to see Jesus clearly and paint his face onto the canvas of The Last Supper.
Like da Vinci, we too will not see Jesus clearly when unforgiveness comes between us and someone who has offended us. It takes a lot of spiritual work to forgive when we have been deeply hurt. But of course that's what Jesus did for us. “Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others” (Col. 3:13b NLT). It’s hard, but not impossible with God’s grace.
Jesus said resentment and bitterness are like a log in your eye that prevents you from seeing others clearly (seeing them through God's love and compassion (Mat 7:5)). So how much more will you need to remove that log if you want to see Jesus (Mat. 5:8).
Leonardo da Vinci had a violent quarrel with a fellow painter shortly before he began work on The Last Supper. As he began to paint, his anger led him to paint the face of the man who was now his enemy into the face of Judas. This was da Vinci's revenge, and he was gleeful over what he had done. But when he started to paint the face of Christ, his best efforts failed. He could no longer see the Savior he longed to honor. Through his struggle, he realized that he must forgive his fellow painter and erase his face from that of Judas. Only then was da Vinci able to see Jesus clearly and paint his face onto the canvas of The Last Supper.
Like da Vinci, we too will not see Jesus clearly when unforgiveness comes between us and someone who has offended us. It takes a lot of spiritual work to forgive when we have been deeply hurt. But of course that's what Jesus did for us. “Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others” (Col. 3:13b NLT). It’s hard, but not impossible with God’s grace.
Jesus said resentment and bitterness are like a log in your eye that prevents you from seeing others clearly (seeing them through God's love and compassion (Mat 7:5)). So how much more will you need to remove that log if you want to see Jesus (Mat. 5:8).
Monday, September 27, 2010
No Revelation in the Information Age
Yesterday my pastor quoted author Niel Cole who describes American Christians as "educated beyond their obedience.” Without a doubt you and I are living in a time when there has never been greater access to Bible information—especially in this internet age where we have a virtual library at our fingertips. But is being more informed about the Bible changing us?
When Jesus prayed “sanctify them by your word; your Word is truth” (John 17:17), He affirmed the life-changing power of the Word of God. Reiterated in Hebrews, the author states that there is a life and power (Heb. 4:12) in the Word that cuts through our mental structures reaching into our inner man, changing us from the inside-out.
But let’s face it. God’s Word does not always seem to be effective! There is a simple reason for this. God’s Word must be interpreted to our spirits by the Holy Spirit—the only One Who can turn facts and information into ‘truth’—a phenomenon called ‘revelation knowledge’ (Eph. 1:17).
Someone has said: it is one thing to know Scripture. It is another thing to know the Lord of the Scripture. We need to know Jesus not only from the written word but as the Living Word (John 1:14). When the words on the page of the Bible become real, they turn into ‘truth’ that sets you free (Jn. 8:32).
When Jesus prayed “sanctify them by your word; your Word is truth” (John 17:17), He affirmed the life-changing power of the Word of God. Reiterated in Hebrews, the author states that there is a life and power (Heb. 4:12) in the Word that cuts through our mental structures reaching into our inner man, changing us from the inside-out.
But let’s face it. God’s Word does not always seem to be effective! There is a simple reason for this. God’s Word must be interpreted to our spirits by the Holy Spirit—the only One Who can turn facts and information into ‘truth’—a phenomenon called ‘revelation knowledge’ (Eph. 1:17).
Someone has said: it is one thing to know Scripture. It is another thing to know the Lord of the Scripture. We need to know Jesus not only from the written word but as the Living Word (John 1:14). When the words on the page of the Bible become real, they turn into ‘truth’ that sets you free (Jn. 8:32).
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Effortless Growth?
Everyone who is reading this blog wants to grow. And growth always means change. The problem is that we want to grow, but we find it difficult to change. But change and growth are inseparable.
When a seed is planted in the earth, it begins to grow. And as it does, it changes its form—from kernel to sprout, from shoot to plant. As the seed grows, it changes into a healthy plant, effortlessly. Is it possible that our process of change and growth should be as effortless?
Consider this: Jesus compares God’s Word to a seed (Mark 4:15). And if God’s Word is like a seed growing in you, doesn’t it make sense that growth should be fairly effortless? After all, you can’t make it grow. It just does—because that is the nature of a ‘seed’—it grows. But in the case of God’s Word, it doesn’t change as it grows. Rather, it changes YOU. But let's get real! There is effort involved: the effort is to stay focused on God’s Word.
See that what you have heard from the beginning [God's Word] remains in you… let your roots grow down into him and draw up nourishment from him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught (1 John 2:24; Colossians 2:7 NLT).
When a seed is planted in the earth, it begins to grow. And as it does, it changes its form—from kernel to sprout, from shoot to plant. As the seed grows, it changes into a healthy plant, effortlessly. Is it possible that our process of change and growth should be as effortless?
Consider this: Jesus compares God’s Word to a seed (Mark 4:15). And if God’s Word is like a seed growing in you, doesn’t it make sense that growth should be fairly effortless? After all, you can’t make it grow. It just does—because that is the nature of a ‘seed’—it grows. But in the case of God’s Word, it doesn’t change as it grows. Rather, it changes YOU. But let's get real! There is effort involved: the effort is to stay focused on God’s Word.
See that what you have heard from the beginning [God's Word] remains in you… let your roots grow down into him and draw up nourishment from him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught (1 John 2:24; Colossians 2:7 NLT).
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
No Small Thing
I received an email yesterday from a pastor of a small church—he has had many challenges to keep going in the ministry. I have a burden for such pastors. Did you know that the average size church in America is 75 people, including children? And most are led by a solitary minister who must also hold a full-time secular job in order to earn a living. I know it must be challenging for these pastors not to compare themselves to larger congregations, not to see themselves as small and insignificant.
Haggai tells how, when the Hebrews were rebuilding the temple, they were discouraged because it was nothing compared to the glorious one built by Solomon (Hag. 2:3). But God encourages them that no work is small when He is in it: “For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice…” (Zech. 4:10 RSV).
Every seemingly small thing we do for God’s kingdom, when it is done “not by might nor by power, but by [His] Spirit” (Zech. 4:6) is great in God’s eyes. Little notes written to encourage someone who is going through a difficult time; spending time beside a hospital bed of a loved one; or long hours taking care of little ones too young to appreciate it are the ‘small things’ (often invisible to others) that are great in God’s eyes. “God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them” (Mat. 5:5 NLT).
Haggai tells how, when the Hebrews were rebuilding the temple, they were discouraged because it was nothing compared to the glorious one built by Solomon (Hag. 2:3). But God encourages them that no work is small when He is in it: “For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice…” (Zech. 4:10 RSV).
Every seemingly small thing we do for God’s kingdom, when it is done “not by might nor by power, but by [His] Spirit” (Zech. 4:6) is great in God’s eyes. Little notes written to encourage someone who is going through a difficult time; spending time beside a hospital bed of a loved one; or long hours taking care of little ones too young to appreciate it are the ‘small things’ (often invisible to others) that are great in God’s eyes. “God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them” (Mat. 5:5 NLT).
Monday, September 20, 2010
Did You Wake up Happy on this Monday Morning?
The word “happy” comes from the old English root “hap”—which means fortune or luck. Happiness, then, is the result of good fortune. Although born-again Christians have every reason to be happy, the better word to describe our spiritually emotional state is the word “joy.”
Since joy is not reliant on good circumstances, we can have unbroken joy. Paul’s letter to the Philippians was written while he was in prison. But twelve times he uses the word ‘joy’ or ‘rejoice’ to describe his spiritual/emotional state.
If you were in prison would you be rejoicing! I know that would be very challenging for me. But that was the expectation of Paul. It was also Peter’s experience. In his first letter he describes the Christians who were being persecuted as having inexpressible or unspeakable joy (1 Peter 1:8). The implication is hard to miss: only those who have been tried can know unspeakable joy—so great you can’t put it into words!
As long as we are in this world, we will have problems (John 16:33). And while we cannot control our circumstances, we can control how we respond. We can see right through everything to the finished work of Jesus (Heb. 12:3). When we understand that, we will know joy inexpressible—you might even say we have discovered the secret to happiness.
Since joy is not reliant on good circumstances, we can have unbroken joy. Paul’s letter to the Philippians was written while he was in prison. But twelve times he uses the word ‘joy’ or ‘rejoice’ to describe his spiritual/emotional state.
If you were in prison would you be rejoicing! I know that would be very challenging for me. But that was the expectation of Paul. It was also Peter’s experience. In his first letter he describes the Christians who were being persecuted as having inexpressible or unspeakable joy (1 Peter 1:8). The implication is hard to miss: only those who have been tried can know unspeakable joy—so great you can’t put it into words!
As long as we are in this world, we will have problems (John 16:33). And while we cannot control our circumstances, we can control how we respond. We can see right through everything to the finished work of Jesus (Heb. 12:3). When we understand that, we will know joy inexpressible—you might even say we have discovered the secret to happiness.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Slow to Speak; Quick to Listen
Three times in Isaiah 53:7 it says that Jesus was silent: “He did not open His mouth...” As believers, we must know how to open our mouths wide and shout to the Lord at times when we praise and thank Him. We must also know how to keep our mouths shut when we are insulted, criticized and slandered. Jesus knew how to praise His Father and He also knew how to be silent.
Unfortunately it is the other way round with many Christians. They are silent when it comes to shouting God’s praises in the meetings. But they do know how to shout and defend themselves when someone accuses them or hurts them. But that is the characteristic of an upside-down world, and Christians must be different.
The preceding is an excerpt from Zac Poonen’s Word for the Week “The Word of the Cross” that I wanted to share: it struck a chord with me, and hope it will with you too. I am all too quick to want to explain myself when I think I am being misunderstood. But that can prevent me from hearing what the Lord may be wanting to speak to me. Unlike Jesus who had done nothing wrong to defend, I do. And I need to stop and consider that before speaking. We must be slow to speak and quick to listen (James 1:19).
Unfortunately it is the other way round with many Christians. They are silent when it comes to shouting God’s praises in the meetings. But they do know how to shout and defend themselves when someone accuses them or hurts them. But that is the characteristic of an upside-down world, and Christians must be different.
The preceding is an excerpt from Zac Poonen’s Word for the Week “The Word of the Cross” that I wanted to share: it struck a chord with me, and hope it will with you too. I am all too quick to want to explain myself when I think I am being misunderstood. But that can prevent me from hearing what the Lord may be wanting to speak to me. Unlike Jesus who had done nothing wrong to defend, I do. And I need to stop and consider that before speaking. We must be slow to speak and quick to listen (James 1:19).
Thursday, September 16, 2010
How Well are You Sleeping these Days?
The Atlantic and Gulf states are in the middle of hurricane season. And the next big one is Igor—a storm as big as Texas. And right behind it is Hurricane Julia. At the same time, there have been two huge fire storms in the West—a natural forest fire in Colorado and a gas explosion fire in San Bruno, California.
When Jesus and the disciples encountered a life-threatening storm, Jesus slept (Luke 8:23). ‘Naps’ and ‘storms’ don’t have much in common—metaphorically, the former a sign of rest; the latter suggesting the opposite. But Jesus was obviously free from anxiety, because He was sleeping, until His disciples awakened Him. Jesus’ response "where is your faith?" (8:25) reveals the key to a proper disposition during life’s storms—a faith in God that overcomes fear.
I know many people going through some Texas-sized storms right now. Maybe you are one of them. Maybe you are feeling the wind blowing so hard and shaking you so violently, you are completely disoriented. Or maybe it feels like the heat of a fire storm is about to destroy you. Jesus promises that in the midst of the storm you are being exercised in faith. God is developing in you a deeper humility, a greater sorrow for sin, a heightened hunger for his righteousness. Any experience which makes you feel your need for Jesus can't be bad. How can we resist anything that causes us to set our affections on things above” (Col. 3:20)?
When Jesus and the disciples encountered a life-threatening storm, Jesus slept (Luke 8:23). ‘Naps’ and ‘storms’ don’t have much in common—metaphorically, the former a sign of rest; the latter suggesting the opposite. But Jesus was obviously free from anxiety, because He was sleeping, until His disciples awakened Him. Jesus’ response "where is your faith?" (8:25) reveals the key to a proper disposition during life’s storms—a faith in God that overcomes fear.
I know many people going through some Texas-sized storms right now. Maybe you are one of them. Maybe you are feeling the wind blowing so hard and shaking you so violently, you are completely disoriented. Or maybe it feels like the heat of a fire storm is about to destroy you. Jesus promises that in the midst of the storm you are being exercised in faith. God is developing in you a deeper humility, a greater sorrow for sin, a heightened hunger for his righteousness. Any experience which makes you feel your need for Jesus can't be bad. How can we resist anything that causes us to set our affections on things above” (Col. 3:20)?
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Can One Person Change the World?
This last week, Terry Jones, a pastor in Gainesville, Florida, drew worldwide attention when he proclaimed “9/11” as “International Burn a Koran Day,” threatening to host a Koran-burning ceremony in Gainesville. Before the Internet, CNN, and ‘YouTube,’ the remarks of a little-known, tiny church pastor would have gone unnoticed. But the uproar created by this underscores how we are living in at a time when anyone—one person— really can change the world: for better or worse!
You could argue that this formerly unheard of pastor was just trying to make a difference. But I am just glad the Bible does not mandate me to change THE world, but only to be His instrument for changing the world in which I live—my small sphere.
The Bible says that each of us has been given a sphere of influence. Paul says "God… has determined the times set for [each of us] and the exact places where [we] should live" (Acts 17:26). Moreover, Paul declares that God has “created us… to do the good things [good works] He planned for us long ago [before the world was created!]” (Ephesians 2:10 NLT). So then, our sphere is the exact place where we live (where God placed us) and our influence will be in doing the 'good works' He created us to do there. Can one person change the world? Probably. But I am more concerned about changing the one where I live. How are you doing in yours?
You could argue that this formerly unheard of pastor was just trying to make a difference. But I am just glad the Bible does not mandate me to change THE world, but only to be His instrument for changing the world in which I live—my small sphere.
The Bible says that each of us has been given a sphere of influence. Paul says "God… has determined the times set for [each of us] and the exact places where [we] should live" (Acts 17:26). Moreover, Paul declares that God has “created us… to do the good things [good works] He planned for us long ago [before the world was created!]” (Ephesians 2:10 NLT). So then, our sphere is the exact place where we live (where God placed us) and our influence will be in doing the 'good works' He created us to do there. Can one person change the world? Probably. But I am more concerned about changing the one where I live. How are you doing in yours?
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Do You Profane God’s Name?
“Do not misuse the name of the Lord your God” (Exodus 20:7). Many people misuse God's name by way of profanity. But profanity is much more than what-we-call swearing or cursing. Misusing God’s name involves anything that takes away from the value of God's name. It means showing contempt for God rather than the fearful reverence He deserves.
The word profane simply means “common.” Treating God as though He were “common” is profanity. There are some who speak of God with entirely too much familiarity—as though He were simply one of their friends. Yes, God calls Moses his friend (Ex. 33:11). Yes, Jesus says “I call you friends” (Jn. 15:15). But we must be careful not turn this privilege into inappropriate familiarity. You’ve heard the expression “too much familiarity breeds contempt,” meaning one becomes so accustomed to familiar things and people that he no longer values them. The word “contempt” means to treat someone with less respect, or value, than he is due. When the judge holds someone ‘in contempt,’ he means they are not treating him (the judge) with the respect he is due. When we treat God contemptuously, we are committing profanity.
When we commit sin without repentance, we slander His Holy character. Claiming to be His children, yet living in fear that our Father won’t meet our needs misrepresents His character as our Provider. Even thinking more about things on earth than the things above shows contempt for God—a failure to value and love Him above all things.
The word profane simply means “common.” Treating God as though He were “common” is profanity. There are some who speak of God with entirely too much familiarity—as though He were simply one of their friends. Yes, God calls Moses his friend (Ex. 33:11). Yes, Jesus says “I call you friends” (Jn. 15:15). But we must be careful not turn this privilege into inappropriate familiarity. You’ve heard the expression “too much familiarity breeds contempt,” meaning one becomes so accustomed to familiar things and people that he no longer values them. The word “contempt” means to treat someone with less respect, or value, than he is due. When the judge holds someone ‘in contempt,’ he means they are not treating him (the judge) with the respect he is due. When we treat God contemptuously, we are committing profanity.
When we commit sin without repentance, we slander His Holy character. Claiming to be His children, yet living in fear that our Father won’t meet our needs misrepresents His character as our Provider. Even thinking more about things on earth than the things above shows contempt for God—a failure to value and love Him above all things.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Keep On Looking and You will Find It
Many years ago, living in Kabul, Afghanistan, I observed family life much as it was in the Old Testament; thus making many Bible stories more real to me. One such story is one Jesus tells about a man waking up his neighbor in the middle of the night to ask for bread, as unexpected visitors had come to town (Luke 11). But the man’s neighbor told him to go away because he was already ‘in bed’ with his children. Jesus likened the man’s ill-timed and rather presumptuous request to persistence in prayer
Every night when my Afghan family went to bed, they would pull out their mattresses, unroll them, and lay them out next to each other. If anyone had come to the door, the father would have had to step over 6 or 8 people lying on the floor (you see, they didn’t have traditional 'beds' or ‘bedrooms.’) I believe this would have been the same in Jesus' story. But because of the man’s persistence, the neighbor got up and gave him all that he asked for. The Greek word translated "persistence" is derived from two words “no shame.” He was not embarrassed to ask.
Sometimes when Altha and are in a store, and can’t find something, she will say “let’s ask a clerk.” And my response is ‘no, let’s keep looking,’ meaning, 'I don’t want to admit I need help.' After all, didn’t Jesus say “keep on looking and you will find” (Luke 11:9)? Well of course not! Jesus said “keep on looking [for Me] and you will find [Me], and keep on asking [ME], and you will be given what you ask for.” I wonder how much of our independence keeps us from a more effective prayer life—and from God giving us all that we need.
Every night when my Afghan family went to bed, they would pull out their mattresses, unroll them, and lay them out next to each other. If anyone had come to the door, the father would have had to step over 6 or 8 people lying on the floor (you see, they didn’t have traditional 'beds' or ‘bedrooms.’) I believe this would have been the same in Jesus' story. But because of the man’s persistence, the neighbor got up and gave him all that he asked for. The Greek word translated "persistence" is derived from two words “no shame.” He was not embarrassed to ask.
Sometimes when Altha and are in a store, and can’t find something, she will say “let’s ask a clerk.” And my response is ‘no, let’s keep looking,’ meaning, 'I don’t want to admit I need help.' After all, didn’t Jesus say “keep on looking and you will find” (Luke 11:9)? Well of course not! Jesus said “keep on looking [for Me] and you will find [Me], and keep on asking [ME], and you will be given what you ask for.” I wonder how much of our independence keeps us from a more effective prayer life—and from God giving us all that we need.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Does Glenn Beck Speak for God?
“Whether we care to believe it or not, our country is in danger’s hour,” says Glenn Beck, popular conservative radio and television host (Fox), with a daily audience of millions. “And there’s only one answer… faith is the answer. Get on your knees… please, I don’t care what church you go to, no church at all, I don’t care. Turn to Him.” Almost sounds good, doesn't it! Wait a minute...
Glenn Beck, a converted Mormon having been raised Catholic, claims to be speaking for God. And conservative evangelicals are embracing him. In fact, I have had some friends ask me whether I think Glenn Beck is a Christian. Why? Because he speaks of ‘faith.’ So once again, I feel compelled to remind us what faith is. Faith is a belief in the Word of God. Faith believes IN JESUS. “Biblical” faith leads us to Jesus.
Many in our day speak of faith. But not Biblical faith. Faith is NOT some force in the universe we can call upon to make things come to pass. Positive thinking, maybe. But not faith. In these days, there are many who claim to be people of faith, claiming to speak for God (Luke 21:8). But beware! Even the slightest study on Mormonism should be enough to persuade you that Glenn Beck cannot possibly be speaking for God. And knows nothing of real faith.
See “How does Oprah define faith?” March 3, 2009 http://dyingtoliveabundantlife.blogspot.com/search/label/oprah
Glenn Beck, a converted Mormon having been raised Catholic, claims to be speaking for God. And conservative evangelicals are embracing him. In fact, I have had some friends ask me whether I think Glenn Beck is a Christian. Why? Because he speaks of ‘faith.’ So once again, I feel compelled to remind us what faith is. Faith is a belief in the Word of God. Faith believes IN JESUS. “Biblical” faith leads us to Jesus.
Many in our day speak of faith. But not Biblical faith. Faith is NOT some force in the universe we can call upon to make things come to pass. Positive thinking, maybe. But not faith. In these days, there are many who claim to be people of faith, claiming to speak for God (Luke 21:8). But beware! Even the slightest study on Mormonism should be enough to persuade you that Glenn Beck cannot possibly be speaking for God. And knows nothing of real faith.
See “How does Oprah define faith?” March 3, 2009 http://dyingtoliveabundantlife.blogspot.com/search/label/oprah
Thursday, September 9, 2010
How Can You Fill a Broken Bottle?
The real danger in being full of yourself is that the Holy Spirit is unable to fill you. If you don’t realize you are full of yourself, the Lord has His methods of revealing it to you—which generally involve some kind of breaking! Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism will suddenly be broken beyond repair (Prov. 29:1). Paradoxically, God is not looking for unblemished, un-cracked bottles to fill up, but broken ones.
The Old Testament is replete with stories of broken people: Jacob, broken before He could receive God’s blessing; Joseph ,nearly destroyed by 14 years of wrongful imprisonment; and Moses, broken of reliance on his education and upbringing. And who could forget David, broken by years of conflict and rejection. Then in the New Testament, there was Paul, the persecuted persecutor, and Peter, whose self-confidence had to be shattered before he was filled and empowered at Pentecost.
Men who refused to be broken end up shipwrecking their faith, and worse, the faith of others. The Church doesn’t need greater preachers and teachers, more Christian radio programs, a newer translation of the Bible, or bigger churches. But more broken men and women so God can "fill [them] with good things" (Ps. 81:10). Are we willing to be broken bottles?
The Old Testament is replete with stories of broken people: Jacob, broken before He could receive God’s blessing; Joseph ,nearly destroyed by 14 years of wrongful imprisonment; and Moses, broken of reliance on his education and upbringing. And who could forget David, broken by years of conflict and rejection. Then in the New Testament, there was Paul, the persecuted persecutor, and Peter, whose self-confidence had to be shattered before he was filled and empowered at Pentecost.
Men who refused to be broken end up shipwrecking their faith, and worse, the faith of others. The Church doesn’t need greater preachers and teachers, more Christian radio programs, a newer translation of the Bible, or bigger churches. But more broken men and women so God can "fill [them] with good things" (Ps. 81:10). Are we willing to be broken bottles?
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Trying to Figure Out the God of Left Field
Just when we think our lives have settled down with certain predictability, something ‘out of left field’—out of nowhere— shows up. Our first reaction is to think, or to say, “God, why?” And it is precisely at these moments that we gain respect for God’s sovereignty—He does what He does. And what He does is not only good (by virtue of His goodness), but necessary for our sanctification (Heb. 10:36; 12:10-11).
Toward the end of Abraham’s long journey where he must have thought he ‘knew’ God, God said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about." (Gen. 22) Don’t you think Abraham had at least a moment of doubting whether this word, which seemed to come out of left field, was really God? But as much as he loved Isaac, He trusted God. And though it made no sense that God would kill the ‘son of promise,’ Abraham passed the test: trusting himself to God's sovereignty (not trying to figure Him out!).
Jesus’ disciples learned through many experiences (Jesus stops a storm that almost sinks their boat; Jesus invites 5,000 people to dinner; Jesus has a 'forbidden' conversation with a lone Samaritan woman) that He was unpredictable. So why are we surprised when something we never-could-have-expected happens to us? At moments like these, either we can waste time trying to figure God out, or we can submit to His sovereignty and accept His unpredictability.
Toward the end of Abraham’s long journey where he must have thought he ‘knew’ God, God said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about." (Gen. 22) Don’t you think Abraham had at least a moment of doubting whether this word, which seemed to come out of left field, was really God? But as much as he loved Isaac, He trusted God. And though it made no sense that God would kill the ‘son of promise,’ Abraham passed the test: trusting himself to God's sovereignty (not trying to figure Him out!).
Jesus’ disciples learned through many experiences (Jesus stops a storm that almost sinks their boat; Jesus invites 5,000 people to dinner; Jesus has a 'forbidden' conversation with a lone Samaritan woman) that He was unpredictable. So why are we surprised when something we never-could-have-expected happens to us? At moments like these, either we can waste time trying to figure God out, or we can submit to His sovereignty and accept His unpredictability.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The Best Friend is a Dead One
In David Wilkerson’s daily devotional today he asks this question: Have you ever thought about what it means to truly lay down your life for your brothers and sisters? (1 John 3:16) My immediate answer would be: “it means to give up your own agenda to serve the needs of another.” Or in Paul’s exact words: “thinking of others as better than yourself” (Philippians 2:3). But in order to truly do that, you have to be dead to your ‘self.’ Therefore, the only kind of Christian who can lay down his life for a brother is one who is already dead.
Some years ago, I went through a period of intense breaking. As the Spirit revealed to me how much of self-life had been in control, I asked for forgiveness of those I had hurt because of it, I repented of not laying down my life for those I called brothers and sisters. Though for years I had been teaching others to die to self, I needed a deeper death to my own. Before I could go genuinely consider others’ needs as more important than my own, I needed to die a deeper death to my own.
Of course, the word 'dying' is in the present continuous tense, isn't it! And today, I need to be broken again. As new opportunities require more breakings! Serving others requires selflessness and humility, daily! God help us!
Some years ago, I went through a period of intense breaking. As the Spirit revealed to me how much of self-life had been in control, I asked for forgiveness of those I had hurt because of it, I repented of not laying down my life for those I called brothers and sisters. Though for years I had been teaching others to die to self, I needed a deeper death to my own. Before I could go genuinely consider others’ needs as more important than my own, I needed to die a deeper death to my own.
Of course, the word 'dying' is in the present continuous tense, isn't it! And today, I need to be broken again. As new opportunities require more breakings! Serving others requires selflessness and humility, daily! God help us!
Friday, September 3, 2010
What is the Breakfast of Champions?
Wheaties? Not necessarily. However, studies do show that children who eat breakfast do better in school. And commons sense indicates the same for adults. The human body is a machine that needs fuel to start the day. And substituting a cup of coffee and a pastry for a protein-rich breakfast isn’t likely to keep you from that mid-morning slump.
Just as we need to fuel our bodies—which are temporal, we need to fuel our spirit and souls—which are eternal. Job said, "I have esteemed the Words of His mouth more than my necessary food" (Job 23:12). Why do we think we can begin the day without feeding our spirit and soul? "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4).
In the morning (12:8), God spoke to Ezekiel, saying: Son of man, eat what I am giving you—eat this scroll! Then go and give its message to the people of Israel. So I opened my mouth, and he fed me the scroll. Eat it all, he said. And when I ate it, it tasted as sweet as honey. Then he added, Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first (Ez. 3:1-3, 10). You cannot expect to champion God’s Word today if you don’t eat it first and let it go deep into your heart.
Just as we need to fuel our bodies—which are temporal, we need to fuel our spirit and souls—which are eternal. Job said, "I have esteemed the Words of His mouth more than my necessary food" (Job 23:12). Why do we think we can begin the day without feeding our spirit and soul? "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4).
In the morning (12:8), God spoke to Ezekiel, saying: Son of man, eat what I am giving you—eat this scroll! Then go and give its message to the people of Israel. So I opened my mouth, and he fed me the scroll. Eat it all, he said. And when I ate it, it tasted as sweet as honey. Then he added, Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first (Ez. 3:1-3, 10). You cannot expect to champion God’s Word today if you don’t eat it first and let it go deep into your heart.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
What are We to do While Waiting for the Lord's Return?
“Too many evangelical Christians welcome the biblical rapture with an unsettling eagerness” was the opening statement of an article in USA Today’s Forum last week, entitled “What if the end isn't near?” In a nutshell, the author declares that those who hold to such beliefs—“end-timers”—ought to be more mindful of things on earth, dedicating themselves to acts that alleviate suffering and make for a better world.
The fallacy in the author’s position is that the two views (an end-time view and ‘do-unto-others’ philosophy) are incompatible. A true disciple of Jesus will do all he can to alleviate suffering in this world while longing for the next. And all the more because He wants to see the suffering of mankind end.
But most alarming to me is that those who eagerly await the rapture (Ro. 8:23-24) are viewed negatively, as though they are not in touch with reality. The USA article serves to remind us that those who, as Jesus said, live as though they are not of this world (Jn. 17:14), will be misunderstood and hated. As evidenced by the USA article, there is increasing movement in the American church toward more social relevance and planet-saving. But listen to the words of Peter:
But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and everything in them will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be exposed to judgment. Since everything around us is going to melt away, what holy, godly lives you should be living! You should look forward to that day and hurry it along… And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to live a pure and blameless life. And be at peace with God (2 Peter 3:11-14)
The fallacy in the author’s position is that the two views (an end-time view and ‘do-unto-others’ philosophy) are incompatible. A true disciple of Jesus will do all he can to alleviate suffering in this world while longing for the next. And all the more because He wants to see the suffering of mankind end.
But most alarming to me is that those who eagerly await the rapture (Ro. 8:23-24) are viewed negatively, as though they are not in touch with reality. The USA article serves to remind us that those who, as Jesus said, live as though they are not of this world (Jn. 17:14), will be misunderstood and hated. As evidenced by the USA article, there is increasing movement in the American church toward more social relevance and planet-saving. But listen to the words of Peter:
But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and everything in them will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be exposed to judgment. Since everything around us is going to melt away, what holy, godly lives you should be living! You should look forward to that day and hurry it along… And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to live a pure and blameless life. And be at peace with God (2 Peter 3:11-14)
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
HE CALLS US TO SEE IT THROUGH, by David Wilkerson [edited version]
Christ knew many of his followers would not have what it took to see them through. He knew they would turn back and not finish the race. I believe this is the most tragic condition possible for a believer—to have started out fully intending to lay hold of Christ, to grow into a mature disciple and become more like Jesus and then to drift away. Such a person is the one who laid a foundation and could not finish because he did not first count the cost. (Luke 14:28-30)
I know that many who read this particular message are in the process of pausing or taking a step backward. It may seem like a small step, but it will cause a swift descent away from his love. If this is true of you, realize the Holy Spirit is calling you all the way back—back to repentance, self-denial and surrender. And at this very moment, time is a big factor. If you ever intend to lay hold of Christ, do it now; see it through!
You can read this devotion in its entirety online at: http://www.worldchallenge.org/en/devotions/2010/he-calls-us-to-see-it-through
I know that many who read this particular message are in the process of pausing or taking a step backward. It may seem like a small step, but it will cause a swift descent away from his love. If this is true of you, realize the Holy Spirit is calling you all the way back—back to repentance, self-denial and surrender. And at this very moment, time is a big factor. If you ever intend to lay hold of Christ, do it now; see it through!
You can read this devotion in its entirety online at: http://www.worldchallenge.org/en/devotions/2010/he-calls-us-to-see-it-through
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Self-Contained
I believe one of the primary characteristics of spiritual maturity is our readiness to accept whatever condition we are in without complaining. Paul wrote, "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content" (Philippians 4:11). The Greek word for content here means self-sufficient. Paul is certainly not claiming self-sufficiency in the way we speak of it—autonomy and independence. No, he is declaring that Jesus is all he needs. With Christ indwelling him, Paul says ‘I am self-contained’ not wanting or needing anything more than I already have.
Spiritual maturity comes when we have learned to trust Jesus has given us all we need. But let me be quick to add: being content in an undesirable circumstance doesn't mean we enjoy it. It means we have learned to focus on Jesus’ sufficiency—not on our discomfort. We have joy (not 'en'joy) knowing our Lord is using the circumstance to mature our faith, and that it is, in fact, ‘normal’ and ‘necessary’ for our growth in faith.
Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. (1 Peter 5:9-10). In other words, you will have all you need: self-contained.
Spiritual maturity comes when we have learned to trust Jesus has given us all we need. But let me be quick to add: being content in an undesirable circumstance doesn't mean we enjoy it. It means we have learned to focus on Jesus’ sufficiency—not on our discomfort. We have joy (not 'en'joy) knowing our Lord is using the circumstance to mature our faith, and that it is, in fact, ‘normal’ and ‘necessary’ for our growth in faith.
Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. (1 Peter 5:9-10). In other words, you will have all you need: self-contained.
Monday, August 30, 2010
When Cruise Control Doesn't Work
When you have travelled along predictably on your familiar freeway long enough, you can be lulled into a sense of safety in your routine—like being on cruise control. But sooner or later, you will encounter some kind of unexpected road hazard—a phone call at two in the morning that your mother has been taken to the emergency room. And immediately, you are forced to disconnect from cruise control. It’s time to keep your hands on the wheel and your foot on the gas pedal—either slowing down or even coming to a dead halt. These interruptions are inevitable. The danger of cruise control is falling asleep and running into one of them.
In the moment of one of these emergencies, you find yourself talking to God with an intimacy you will not otherwise know. Will you be able to say, like the Psalmist: “The suffering you sent was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your principles” (Psalm 119:71).
In the moment of one of these emergencies, you find yourself talking to God with an intimacy you will not otherwise know. Will you be able to say, like the Psalmist: “The suffering you sent was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your principles” (Psalm 119:71).
Friday, August 27, 2010
Trying to Keep it Simple in a Complicated World
I don’t usually remember jokes, but this one stuck in my mind for its humorous conveyance of helplessness in our financial crisis: “If you laid all the economists in the world end to end, they still wouldn't reach a conclusion.” Indeed, the causes and cures for the recession are complicated.
Paul said I am focusing all my energies on this ONE THING: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead (Phil. 3:13). And what lay ahead for Paul was knowing Jesus better and better. Before his conversion, Paul placed high importance on his knowledge of many things. But from that instant of new birth, he wanted only ONE THING: to know Jesus. He knew that everything else was worthless when compared with the priceless gain of knowing Jesus (Phil. 3:8).
In the midst of a complicated world, knowing Jesus is the ONE THING we need. Every believer who really knows Jesus will fear nothing on earth. But be careful: these confusing times will lead many away from pure and SIMPLE devotion to Jesus (2 Cor.11:3). But those who know Jesus as the ONE THING will dwell in peace. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, whose thoughts are fixed on you! (Is. 26:3).
Paul said I am focusing all my energies on this ONE THING: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead (Phil. 3:13). And what lay ahead for Paul was knowing Jesus better and better. Before his conversion, Paul placed high importance on his knowledge of many things. But from that instant of new birth, he wanted only ONE THING: to know Jesus. He knew that everything else was worthless when compared with the priceless gain of knowing Jesus (Phil. 3:8).
In the midst of a complicated world, knowing Jesus is the ONE THING we need. Every believer who really knows Jesus will fear nothing on earth. But be careful: these confusing times will lead many away from pure and SIMPLE devotion to Jesus (2 Cor.11:3). But those who know Jesus as the ONE THING will dwell in peace. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, whose thoughts are fixed on you! (Is. 26:3).
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
"I Left My Heart in Egypt"
You probably recognize the title of this post is as a play on Tony Bennett’s signature song “I left My Heart in San Francisco.” Unfortunately, after being phenomenally delivered from Egypt, it became the Jewish national anthem. Within days of crossing over the Red Sea into the wilderness, the Israelites began thinking longingly about the things they missed in Egypt—the “leeks and onions.”
Moses said: “God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you … He allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna … that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord” (Deut. 8:2-3). Interestingly, the root of the Hebrew word for wilderness, midbar, means "speak" or "word." God speaks to us in the wilderness; it creates in us a hunger for God’s words.
But of course that didn’t happen—the Jews couldn’t stop thinking about what they left behind, about the way things used to be. You may call it nostalgia; God calls it rebellion. None of us should expect that we will ever fully possess our Canaan (the abundant life Jesus spoke of) while our heart still thinks wistfully of the way we were (another sad song title). Listen to these words: "Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past” (Isa 43:18). In other words, get your heart out of Egypt.
Moses said: “God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you … He allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna … that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord” (Deut. 8:2-3). Interestingly, the root of the Hebrew word for wilderness, midbar, means "speak" or "word." God speaks to us in the wilderness; it creates in us a hunger for God’s words.
But of course that didn’t happen—the Jews couldn’t stop thinking about what they left behind, about the way things used to be. You may call it nostalgia; God calls it rebellion. None of us should expect that we will ever fully possess our Canaan (the abundant life Jesus spoke of) while our heart still thinks wistfully of the way we were (another sad song title). Listen to these words: "Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past” (Isa 43:18). In other words, get your heart out of Egypt.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Blessed are those whose prayers have not been answered
I have a friend who prayed for months that God would do something about a noisy neighbor keeping her awake at night. (I am sure her prayers were something like this: ‘God can’t you make him be quiet’; or ‘God, why don’t you make him move?’) But last I heard from her, the neighbor is still noisy and she is still waiting for God to answer her prayer.
I call unanswered prayer a divine mystery. On one hand, Jesus said “if you ask the Father anything in my name, He will give it to you” (Jn. 16:23). But Scripture also gives examples of men and women of faith who endured pain, suffering, torture, even horrible death… and died without ever receiving the promise (Heb. 11:36-39)—their prayers of deliverance seemingly unanswered.
The writer of Hebrews tells us God had something better for them. We expect God’s answers to be “yes” or “no.” But in doing so, we limit God to human logic. Have you considered that God’s answer to your prayer is I have something better for you? “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Is. 55:9). There really is no such thing as unanswered prayer: unanswered prayer is an oxymoron! God always answers you—but in His time and in His way. If God does not answer “yes” or “no,” it is because He has something better for you.
I call unanswered prayer a divine mystery. On one hand, Jesus said “if you ask the Father anything in my name, He will give it to you” (Jn. 16:23). But Scripture also gives examples of men and women of faith who endured pain, suffering, torture, even horrible death… and died without ever receiving the promise (Heb. 11:36-39)—their prayers of deliverance seemingly unanswered.
The writer of Hebrews tells us God had something better for them. We expect God’s answers to be “yes” or “no.” But in doing so, we limit God to human logic. Have you considered that God’s answer to your prayer is I have something better for you? “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Is. 55:9). There really is no such thing as unanswered prayer: unanswered prayer is an oxymoron! God always answers you—but in His time and in His way. If God does not answer “yes” or “no,” it is because He has something better for you.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Where is the Weeping?
My Belizean friend wrote to me recently: “I guess that the Good Lord has come to hear the crying of the few, and now He is moving.” I thought about his words 'the crying of the few.' "Yes," I thought, "but how few are crying these days." Immediately the story of Nehemiah came to mind: When I heard these words, I sat down and wept and mourned for days (1:4a). What caused Nehemiah’s sorrow? Learning that the Jews who had returned to Judah were disgraced by the condition of Jerusalem—its outer walls broken. The same word “broken” is used in Psalm 51:17 for a "broken” heart.
Nehemiah’s heart was broken over the condition of God’s people. And when Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem some months later, not only did he rebuild the broken walls, he ‘restored’ the broken people. The Bible says as he read the Law, the people recognized their sinful condition and wept (Neh. 8:9).
Where is the weeping of God’s people today? Why is my own heart not more broken over the condition of God’s people in our age? Why are we not more grieved over the way this disparages the Lord’s reputation? Perhaps it is time to regard the words of James: Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Then, James immediately provides us with this promise of hope: When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor (James 4:9-10 NLT). But let me end with an even more positive note. After the Jews had wept, confessed, and repented, Nehemiah said: Do not be grieved [anymore], for the joy of the Lord is your strength (Neh. 8:10).
Nehemiah’s heart was broken over the condition of God’s people. And when Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem some months later, not only did he rebuild the broken walls, he ‘restored’ the broken people. The Bible says as he read the Law, the people recognized their sinful condition and wept (Neh. 8:9).
Where is the weeping of God’s people today? Why is my own heart not more broken over the condition of God’s people in our age? Why are we not more grieved over the way this disparages the Lord’s reputation? Perhaps it is time to regard the words of James: Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Then, James immediately provides us with this promise of hope: When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor (James 4:9-10 NLT). But let me end with an even more positive note. After the Jews had wept, confessed, and repented, Nehemiah said: Do not be grieved [anymore], for the joy of the Lord is your strength (Neh. 8:10).
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Get a Window Seat
Whenever I fly, I like a window seat—I love the view! Things on earth become very small; and the higher you fly, the smaller they get!
The benefit of being raised up with Christ and seated in the “heavenly places” (Eph. 1:20; 2:6) is the new view we get—we see the things of earth from a heavenly point of view! Living in perilous times, as we are, there is a greater need than ever to look at these events through heavenly eyes. Jesus said, “When these things begin to take place (perilous times that precede His coming) straighten up and lift up your heads” (Luke 21:28).
When we look up, we see that our Father is in control of everything. Things on earth seem to matter less. It seems to me if everything we need is to be found in the heavenly realm, we would want to get a window seat.
The benefit of being raised up with Christ and seated in the “heavenly places” (Eph. 1:20; 2:6) is the new view we get—we see the things of earth from a heavenly point of view! Living in perilous times, as we are, there is a greater need than ever to look at these events through heavenly eyes. Jesus said, “When these things begin to take place (perilous times that precede His coming) straighten up and lift up your heads” (Luke 21:28).
When we look up, we see that our Father is in control of everything. Things on earth seem to matter less. It seems to me if everything we need is to be found in the heavenly realm, we would want to get a window seat.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Are You Ready for Anything!?
I have friends who are going through troubles that seem more than they can bear. Maybe that’s how you feel too. Think about this: the only reason we consider them to be ‘trouble’ is that they are beyond our ‘natural’ ability. In the spiritual realm, increased spiritual life is directly proportional to decreased natural life. And in order to be decreased in our natural abilities, we must be challenged beyond what we think we can endure. When we’ve reached the end of our resources, we’ll be eager for His.
Every ‘proven’ person knows it is not easy times, but hard times that provide the most opportunity for growth. This is why James calls these troubles “opportunities for joy” (James 1:2 NLT). Without the conflict and pressure produced by these troubles, we would become spiritually passive and ambivalent. James goes on to say: “For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything” (James 1:3-4 NLT).
Every ‘proven’ person knows it is not easy times, but hard times that provide the most opportunity for growth. This is why James calls these troubles “opportunities for joy” (James 1:2 NLT). Without the conflict and pressure produced by these troubles, we would become spiritually passive and ambivalent. James goes on to say: “For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything” (James 1:3-4 NLT).
Friday, August 13, 2010
Waiters are Called Servers
From the moment of conception, we begin waiting (waiting 9 months to be born!). Then we have to wait until we're old enough to cross the street alone, dive a car, finish school, graduate from college, get a job, find a mate and marry, conceive and have a child. And when we are old, we wait for the end of life.
Though waiting is natural, it is still very difficult! If you have to wait for someone who's late, or if you're expecting something important in the mail, or if you're waiting for the phone to ring, it can almost drive you crazy! Why? Because waiting means you're not in control; someone else is.
Waiting on the Lord, however, is a different matter. He is in control. And when God delays, He has a reason. This is why waiting on God is one of the most spiritually rewarding things we do. Waiting causes you to be more dependent on God; it causes you to be more attentive to Him, more alert. It makes you more sensitive to your sin—knowing it may hinder you from hearing God. Waiting makes you a better 'servant': a 'server.'
Though waiting is natural, it is still very difficult! If you have to wait for someone who's late, or if you're expecting something important in the mail, or if you're waiting for the phone to ring, it can almost drive you crazy! Why? Because waiting means you're not in control; someone else is.
Waiting on the Lord, however, is a different matter. He is in control. And when God delays, He has a reason. This is why waiting on God is one of the most spiritually rewarding things we do. Waiting causes you to be more dependent on God; it causes you to be more attentive to Him, more alert. It makes you more sensitive to your sin—knowing it may hinder you from hearing God. Waiting makes you a better 'servant': a 'server.'
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The Slater Slide
By now everyone has heard of flight attendant Steven Slater’s angry slide down the JetBlue aircraft’s emergency shoot in a rebellious “I’m out of here” spirit. Within minutes, he slid onto the front pages of national news, and became an overnight sensation on Facebook, with over 14,000 sympathizers.
But before you get captivated by this “rebel with a cause” spirit, think about this. This self-determining spirit of rebellion has been around since time began—captivating our first parents, Adam and Eve, and bringing judgment on all those who have rebelled against God.
God hates rebellion, calling it the sin of witchcraft... and idolatry (1 Sam. 15:23). The cause of Lucifer’s fall (Is. 14: 12-14), the spirit of rebellion characterizes all who are called the “sons of disobedience” (Eph. 2:2). But having become “sons of God” (Rom. 9:26) we must avoid the Slater Slide—a slow and gradual decline that will harden out hearts toward God’s authority.
Ask yourself if you need to make some adjustments: “for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience; therefore, do not be partakers with them” (Eph. 5:6-7).
But before you get captivated by this “rebel with a cause” spirit, think about this. This self-determining spirit of rebellion has been around since time began—captivating our first parents, Adam and Eve, and bringing judgment on all those who have rebelled against God.
God hates rebellion, calling it the sin of witchcraft... and idolatry (1 Sam. 15:23). The cause of Lucifer’s fall (Is. 14: 12-14), the spirit of rebellion characterizes all who are called the “sons of disobedience” (Eph. 2:2). But having become “sons of God” (Rom. 9:26) we must avoid the Slater Slide—a slow and gradual decline that will harden out hearts toward God’s authority.
Ask yourself if you need to make some adjustments: “for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience; therefore, do not be partakers with them” (Eph. 5:6-7).
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Don't Lose Sight of...
Does it seem to you that things are getting worse on planet earth! In just the last few weeks and months, we have seen a rash of natural crises: cataclysmic earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, mudslides, fires, soaring temperatures (not to mention the man-made crises). And on every continent, ethnic, tribal, religious hatreds and animosities continue unabated, exploding in senseless, inhuman violence, while all human effort at peacemaking fails miserably.
By the natural eye, things look pretty bleak. So Paul says look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Cor. 4:18). Paul and Silas demonstrated this while in prison. If they had focused on their circumstance, their hearts would have been filled with fear and anxiety. Instead, they focused on God—their hearts full of praise (Acts 5). Long before the angel opened the prison doors, they were already “free.”
If earthly circumstances are causing you to focus on that which is seen, you need a visual adjustment. Don’t allow the things which are seen cause you to lose sight of what Jesus is doing.
By the natural eye, things look pretty bleak. So Paul says look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Cor. 4:18). Paul and Silas demonstrated this while in prison. If they had focused on their circumstance, their hearts would have been filled with fear and anxiety. Instead, they focused on God—their hearts full of praise (Acts 5). Long before the angel opened the prison doors, they were already “free.”
If earthly circumstances are causing you to focus on that which is seen, you need a visual adjustment. Don’t allow the things which are seen cause you to lose sight of what Jesus is doing.
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