Today, Memorial Day, is dedicated to the remembrance of U.S. men and women who died while fighting for our freedom. Our Congress believes we need an official commemoration so we will not forget. That said, even though everyone may know it is a day to remember our ‘fallen heroes,’ I am afraid too few will give it much thought. They will “forget to remember!”
‘Remembering’ is a deliberate act of calling something to mind. Though something is stored in our memory banks, we may not “remember” it. In fact, we too easily “forget to remember.” Jesus knew this was a human flaw. So at the ‘Passover’ meal, He said: This cup is the new covenant in My blood… drink it in remembrance of Me (1 Cor. 11:25). Every time we “take Communion,” we repeat those words. Jesus gave us a consecrated event and symbol so we would not “forget to remember.”
Watch out! Be very careful never to forget what you have seen the LORD do for you. Do not let these things escape from your mind as long as you live! (Deut. 4:9).
Monday, May 31, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Can You See It?
Canoeing down the Macal River through the tropical rain forest last week, our Belizean guide Wally pointed out the native birds barely visible in the thick vegetation. Sometimes even when he pointed to them, we had a hard time finding them with our unskilled eyes. But Wally’s eye sight has been perfected through years of paying attention.
One of the things we learned quickly was to look ‘up’ if we wanted to see the iguanas. They climb high above the shaded forest, resting on tree top branches in the open sunlight. Their greenish/grey skin blended in so well with the colors of the trees, they were difficult to see even when Wally pointed, patiently asking “can you see it?” As he waited for us to see, the canoe would drift away from the sight, and Wally, not wanting us to miss it, would back paddle until we would say, “Oh! now I see.”
I couldn’t help thinking of how many things in life we drift right by because we are not paying close enough attention—missing important things God wants to point out to us. “For this reason we must pay much closer attention… so that we do not drift away from it” (Heb. 2:1).
One of the things we learned quickly was to look ‘up’ if we wanted to see the iguanas. They climb high above the shaded forest, resting on tree top branches in the open sunlight. Their greenish/grey skin blended in so well with the colors of the trees, they were difficult to see even when Wally pointed, patiently asking “can you see it?” As he waited for us to see, the canoe would drift away from the sight, and Wally, not wanting us to miss it, would back paddle until we would say, “Oh! now I see.”
I couldn’t help thinking of how many things in life we drift right by because we are not paying close enough attention—missing important things God wants to point out to us. “For this reason we must pay much closer attention… so that we do not drift away from it” (Heb. 2:1).
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Life is Like a Jungle Cruise
What is your favorite attraction at Disneyland? Mine was always the Jungle Cruise. Perhaps it was the nascent spirit of adventurism that came to fruition years later when I travelled to Zaire and experienced a real jungle cruise down the Congo River. Last week in Belize, we hired a native guide, Wally, to canoe us down the Macal River, slicing through the dense rain forest on either side. Wally pointed out the tropical birds and giant iguanas perched on trees atop the jungle canopy. As you can imagine, after seeing the real thing, nothing at Disney’s Adventure Land holds any attraction for me.
And so it is, that everything in this world is only a shadow of things to come (Colossians 2:17)—God giving us a foretaste, whetting our appetites for the real thing. Everything on earth is going to pass away (1 John 2:17). According to Tozer’s definition, what we ‘see’ isn’t real: “only that which is lasting is real.”
We must examine ourselves regularly to see if we are in the faith (2 Cor. 13:5), i.e., living by faith; not by sight! Are we seeking to experience a life of lasting substance in the unseen realm, or are we contented with the things we can see, the shadows? Some people will never go to the Congo or Belize (even if they had the opportunity). They prefer the safety, comfort, and control of a theme park. Life is like a jungle cruise. The only question is 'do you want to experience the real thing, or are you willing to settle for the one at Disneyland?'
And so it is, that everything in this world is only a shadow of things to come (Colossians 2:17)—God giving us a foretaste, whetting our appetites for the real thing. Everything on earth is going to pass away (1 John 2:17). According to Tozer’s definition, what we ‘see’ isn’t real: “only that which is lasting is real.”
We must examine ourselves regularly to see if we are in the faith (2 Cor. 13:5), i.e., living by faith; not by sight! Are we seeking to experience a life of lasting substance in the unseen realm, or are we contented with the things we can see, the shadows? Some people will never go to the Congo or Belize (even if they had the opportunity). They prefer the safety, comfort, and control of a theme park. Life is like a jungle cruise. The only question is 'do you want to experience the real thing, or are you willing to settle for the one at Disneyland?'
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Are You a Survivor?
“Recovery Group” programs put people in two categories: ‘victims’ or ‘survivors.’ In recovery group vernacular, a victim is someone who is still trying to cope with the problem. And a survivor is someone who has come to terms with it, and learning to take one day at a time.
Not bad—But neither term is an appropriate self-identification for a believer. Born again believers in Jesus are neither victims nor survivors. They are ‘over-comers.’ Jesus said “I have overcome the world.” He didn’t say “I have survived this world.” (And He certainly did not say “I am a victim.”)
Paul had a revelation of this truth—writing in his letter to the Romans: “We are more than over-comers” (8:37). The Greek word for the phrase “more than over-comer” is simply the word “over-comer” with the prefix “hyper,” meaning 'extra active!' We might say super instead of hyper. Now here's a mystery: Jesus says “I have overcame” the world, but Paul says we have “super-overcome” the world? How can it be?
When Jesus went to the grave taking the sin of the world He overcome death. But when Jesus rose from the dead he was more than an over-comer of death—His resurrection brought about a whole new creation. And the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead has raised us too. We have not only overcome death, but more than that—we have overcome the power of sin. No longer victims of sin and Satan; no longer just surviving in a fallen world—we are super-over-comers.
Not bad—But neither term is an appropriate self-identification for a believer. Born again believers in Jesus are neither victims nor survivors. They are ‘over-comers.’ Jesus said “I have overcome the world.” He didn’t say “I have survived this world.” (And He certainly did not say “I am a victim.”)
Paul had a revelation of this truth—writing in his letter to the Romans: “We are more than over-comers” (8:37). The Greek word for the phrase “more than over-comer” is simply the word “over-comer” with the prefix “hyper,” meaning 'extra active!' We might say super instead of hyper. Now here's a mystery: Jesus says “I have overcame” the world, but Paul says we have “super-overcome” the world? How can it be?
When Jesus went to the grave taking the sin of the world He overcome death. But when Jesus rose from the dead he was more than an over-comer of death—His resurrection brought about a whole new creation. And the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead has raised us too. We have not only overcome death, but more than that—we have overcome the power of sin. No longer victims of sin and Satan; no longer just surviving in a fallen world—we are super-over-comers.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Don't Forget the Children
On our first day in San Ignacio, Belize, I noticed a young boy with a shoe shine box, looking for customers. I felt like giving him money, but he disappeared before I could. The next day I saw him again, but then he vanished. You see, since I had not seen any other children working, or even begging, he stood out, and I was curious to know more about him. On our third day, while sitting in a patio café, I saw him yet again, bent over someone’s feet, shining shoes. And as soon as he finished Altha and I beckoned him over to our table, where, quite amazingly, though he spoke only Spanish, we enjoyed a wonderful conversation.
His name was Selvin; he was almost 13. He told us how he lived just over the border in Guatemala, coming over to ‘work’ his trade among the tourists in San Ignacio. An orphan living in his aunt’s tiny, over-crowded house, he had to work to help buy food. Of course, we paid for Selvin's dinner and gave him some money before he took the bus back to Guatemala; we didn't see him again.
In our privileged country of social services and entitlement programs, it is too easy to forget the Selvins of this world. God used our encounter to remind us that child labor in many third world countries is a necessary way of life. But just imagine being a child alone in a ‘developing’ country. Imagine growing up without the love and guidance of a parent, living without a reliable source of food, shelter, medicine, or clothing. This is the life millions of children all over the world. What’s my point? Only this: ask the Lord to show you what you can do, to help a third world child. Sponsor a child or volunteer in some way. And if you can’t, then find and support an organization that is. Because Jesus said, “when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters [to Selvin], you were doing it to me” (Matthew 25:40).
His name was Selvin; he was almost 13. He told us how he lived just over the border in Guatemala, coming over to ‘work’ his trade among the tourists in San Ignacio. An orphan living in his aunt’s tiny, over-crowded house, he had to work to help buy food. Of course, we paid for Selvin's dinner and gave him some money before he took the bus back to Guatemala; we didn't see him again.
In our privileged country of social services and entitlement programs, it is too easy to forget the Selvins of this world. God used our encounter to remind us that child labor in many third world countries is a necessary way of life. But just imagine being a child alone in a ‘developing’ country. Imagine growing up without the love and guidance of a parent, living without a reliable source of food, shelter, medicine, or clothing. This is the life millions of children all over the world. What’s my point? Only this: ask the Lord to show you what you can do, to help a third world child. Sponsor a child or volunteer in some way. And if you can’t, then find and support an organization that is. Because Jesus said, “when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters [to Selvin], you were doing it to me” (Matthew 25:40).
Monday, May 24, 2010
Dare to Ask!
Denmark is the world's most content nation, according to a new study on global well being—a welfare state with free education and social services for all. But in an interview in “60 Minutes,” people explained that a primary reason for their contentment is that they do not have “high” expectations. In other words, if they don’t ask for much, they won’t get disappointed.
Mark tells how a blind beggar, sitting by the road, cried out, "Jesus, have mercy on me!" (Mark 10:46-52). People accused him of presumption, telling him to be quiet. But he continued, until Jesus stopped, and asked, "What do you want Me to do for you?" The blind man asked Jesus to make him see! Immediately, he was healed. Jesus said your faith (as demonstrated by his willingness to ASK) has made you whole!
Now what if the blind man had no expectation of healing? What if he had been afraid to ask?
In John’s gospel, Jesus says repeatedly, “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do” (Luke 11:9; John 14:13-14; 15:7, 16; 16:23-26). Paul elucidates on this “asking” theme, proclaiming: “by His mighty power at work within us, God is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever DARE TO ASK… (Eph. 3:20 NLT). Paul is almost warning us, it seems, to make sure our requests do not fall short of what God will do—IF we dare to ask. Then James says “You do not have, because you do not ask God” (4:2). Let’ not be “Danish” in our asking. Let’s show we are people who are not afraid to ask God for greater things (John 14:12).
Mark tells how a blind beggar, sitting by the road, cried out, "Jesus, have mercy on me!" (Mark 10:46-52). People accused him of presumption, telling him to be quiet. But he continued, until Jesus stopped, and asked, "What do you want Me to do for you?" The blind man asked Jesus to make him see! Immediately, he was healed. Jesus said your faith (as demonstrated by his willingness to ASK) has made you whole!
Now what if the blind man had no expectation of healing? What if he had been afraid to ask?
In John’s gospel, Jesus says repeatedly, “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do” (Luke 11:9; John 14:13-14; 15:7, 16; 16:23-26). Paul elucidates on this “asking” theme, proclaiming: “by His mighty power at work within us, God is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever DARE TO ASK… (Eph. 3:20 NLT). Paul is almost warning us, it seems, to make sure our requests do not fall short of what God will do—IF we dare to ask. Then James says “You do not have, because you do not ask God” (4:2). Let’ not be “Danish” in our asking. Let’s show we are people who are not afraid to ask God for greater things (John 14:12).
Friday, May 21, 2010
There Was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe
"There Was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe" is a popular nursery rhyme: “she had so many children she didn’t know what to do.” Well, Leonie Herrera, the founder, director, and ‘mother’ of The King’s Children’s Home in Belmopan, Belize is not old, and though her 6-bedroom house is a “tight fit,” she does know what to do with her 42 children. She knows what to do because she is a woman of faith!
Leonie began taking in children while she was still employed full time for the United Nations in Belize. But as more children were sent to her by the State’s child protective services, she quit her job and established The King’s Children’s Home. Today Leonie is making plans to move her children to a new home on several acres outside the city. The estimated cost? $700,000! That’s faith!
Jesus told His disciples “I chose you; I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name” (John 15:16). Leonie knows God chose her and appointed her to The King’s Children’s Home. And she knows what to do because she knows Jesus! She knows she can ask for whatever she needs—In Jesus’ name. When you know Jesus, you know what to ask for: because you love me, my Father will love you, and I will love you, and I will reveal myself to each one of you (Jn 14:21). Do you know Jesus that well? Do you have “$700,000 faith?”
To see a little of what Altha and I saw on our visit to The King's Children's Home, go to http://www.kingschildrenshome.org/ where you will be able to watch a video interview with Leonie and testimony by a young man who grew up in her home.
Leonie began taking in children while she was still employed full time for the United Nations in Belize. But as more children were sent to her by the State’s child protective services, she quit her job and established The King’s Children’s Home. Today Leonie is making plans to move her children to a new home on several acres outside the city. The estimated cost? $700,000! That’s faith!
Jesus told His disciples “I chose you; I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name” (John 15:16). Leonie knows God chose her and appointed her to The King’s Children’s Home. And she knows what to do because she knows Jesus! She knows she can ask for whatever she needs—In Jesus’ name. When you know Jesus, you know what to ask for: because you love me, my Father will love you, and I will love you, and I will reveal myself to each one of you (Jn 14:21). Do you know Jesus that well? Do you have “$700,000 faith?”
To see a little of what Altha and I saw on our visit to The King's Children's Home, go to http://www.kingschildrenshome.org/ where you will be able to watch a video interview with Leonie and testimony by a young man who grew up in her home.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Divine Appointment
Near the end of His earthly journey, Jesus spoke to the disciples, saying “I chose you [and] I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last…” (John 15:16 NLT) Have you experienced those life events when you knew you were having a divine appointment? Altha and I had many during our recent stay in Belize—too many to speak of. But one stands out, above all of them.
On my birthday, we took a half day tour with a guide canoeing through Barton Creek Cave. As our guide led us through the dark labyrinth etched into the mountain by centuries of rushing waters, we shined our lamps on the stalactites, hanging from the cavern ceiling like icicles while bats flew overhead. It was an amazing tour. But that was not God’s appointment. Crossing paths with our guide Anastacio was.
After the tour, we learned that Anastacio was a brother in Christ. And as he shared his faith journey with us, it was evident that God had sent us there for more than a cave tour through Barton Creek! He had sent us to encourage this Belizean man who believed God was calling him to start an English speaking church in San Ignacio. But lacking the training necessary to become a pastor he was not sure what to do. Well, guess what!? Today we are sending Anastacio a package with our books, and the DVDs and CDs of the Treasures of Truth. Pray for him as studies these life-changing truths.
Remember what I said before we left for Belize? ‘The Lord will direct our steps.’ (Proverbs 16:9). He surely did! Meeting Anastacio was definitely a divine appointment.
On my birthday, we took a half day tour with a guide canoeing through Barton Creek Cave. As our guide led us through the dark labyrinth etched into the mountain by centuries of rushing waters, we shined our lamps on the stalactites, hanging from the cavern ceiling like icicles while bats flew overhead. It was an amazing tour. But that was not God’s appointment. Crossing paths with our guide Anastacio was.
After the tour, we learned that Anastacio was a brother in Christ. And as he shared his faith journey with us, it was evident that God had sent us there for more than a cave tour through Barton Creek! He had sent us to encourage this Belizean man who believed God was calling him to start an English speaking church in San Ignacio. But lacking the training necessary to become a pastor he was not sure what to do. Well, guess what!? Today we are sending Anastacio a package with our books, and the DVDs and CDs of the Treasures of Truth. Pray for him as studies these life-changing truths.
Remember what I said before we left for Belize? ‘The Lord will direct our steps.’ (Proverbs 16:9). He surely did! Meeting Anastacio was definitely a divine appointment.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Advance Planning
Altha and I leave for Belize tomorrow. We will celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary and my 62nd birthday—milestones on our earthly trek. While there we will visit an orphanage in the capital city of Belmopan and be looking out for other divine opportunities.
If you know me at all, you’re not surprised that I have put together detailed plans for our trip. Flights, shuttles, and hotels reserved; Banks, places to eat, attractions, and directions all carefully researched. But even though we have done our advance planning, we are mindful of leaving plenty of room in our schedule for God’s unplanned events! “The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps” (Prov. 16:9).
When Abraham started his journey, he certainly made plans, but there were so many things he could not have known. For Abraham, there was no researching, no conferring with others who had made the journey. But the Lord said “Go!” He went! Even so, Jesus calls us to follow Him by faith, trusting He knows where He is leading us. I wonder were the Disciples ever anxious because of the lack of advance planning. Every day Jesus said “let’s go.” And they went. Just like Abraham. Someone has said “Abraham may not have known where he was going, but he knew Who he was going with.” And so do we! (I will not post for the next 7 days.)
If you know me at all, you’re not surprised that I have put together detailed plans for our trip. Flights, shuttles, and hotels reserved; Banks, places to eat, attractions, and directions all carefully researched. But even though we have done our advance planning, we are mindful of leaving plenty of room in our schedule for God’s unplanned events! “The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps” (Prov. 16:9).
When Abraham started his journey, he certainly made plans, but there were so many things he could not have known. For Abraham, there was no researching, no conferring with others who had made the journey. But the Lord said “Go!” He went! Even so, Jesus calls us to follow Him by faith, trusting He knows where He is leading us. I wonder were the Disciples ever anxious because of the lack of advance planning. Every day Jesus said “let’s go.” And they went. Just like Abraham. Someone has said “Abraham may not have known where he was going, but he knew Who he was going with.” And so do we! (I will not post for the next 7 days.)
Monday, May 10, 2010
In Between Sundays
Welcome to Monday— what we think of as the first day of a new week. But of course we all know that Sunday is the first day of the week (and the day Christians go to church). Saturday—literally the ‘seventh’ day—is the Jewish Sabbath. The word also comes from the word “rest.” While we tend to emphasize that the Jewish Sabbath was the day Jews were to rest from work, it was also a day to devote one’s thoughts to God.
Isaiah captures the meaning of Sabbath when he says it is a day “…to turn your foot from doing your own pleasure, to desist from doing your own will, from seeking your own pleasure, and speaking your own word—a day to take delight in the Lord…” (Is. 58:13-14). When we do these things, we are resting from our own works and celebrating Jesus’ work for us, in us, and through us—every day.
Though the Sabbath observance was commanded under the Law, Christians are free to enjoy the true and lasting spiritual rest of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ every day of the week—every day can be, and should be, a Sabbath.
Isaiah captures the meaning of Sabbath when he says it is a day “…to turn your foot from doing your own pleasure, to desist from doing your own will, from seeking your own pleasure, and speaking your own word—a day to take delight in the Lord…” (Is. 58:13-14). When we do these things, we are resting from our own works and celebrating Jesus’ work for us, in us, and through us—every day.
Though the Sabbath observance was commanded under the Law, Christians are free to enjoy the true and lasting spiritual rest of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ every day of the week—every day can be, and should be, a Sabbath.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Improving Your Vision
Yesterday the stock market went out of control, perhaps mirroring just what you are feeling about your life. And you are trying to keep your mind set on Jesus. The author of Hebrews understood this: “We don’t yet see all things under Jesus’ control, but we see Jesus” (Heb. 2:9). Things in your life may indeed by spinning out of control, but in the midst of it, you will be stablized as you see Jesus. (Tell that to Wall Street!)
The question is: DO you “see” Jesus? “Yes, but not very well,” you say? Be encouraged! Your spiritual eyesight can be improved—as you learn to see through the eyes of your spirit (Eph. 3:17).
The writer of Hebrews explains that there are two things that will hinder us from “fixing our eyes on Jesus” (12:3): “weights” and “habitual sins” (12:1). The weights cause you to look down instead of up. And habitual sins make you nearsighted, or even blind (2 Cor. 4:4; 2 Peter 1:9). The weights are the cares of this world. The sins are what A. W. Tozer referred to as the hyphenated self-sins: self-esteem, self-confidence, self-worth, etc. They make you look at yourself: not Jesus!
Here are two things you can do to improve your vision. First, make it your goal to LOOK for Jesus in all things; you won’t SEE Him if you are not deliberately looking for Him! Second, PRAY for the “eyes of your spirit” to be opened. God can heal your nearsightedness and open your eyes to see Jesus.
The question is: DO you “see” Jesus? “Yes, but not very well,” you say? Be encouraged! Your spiritual eyesight can be improved—as you learn to see through the eyes of your spirit (Eph. 3:17).
The writer of Hebrews explains that there are two things that will hinder us from “fixing our eyes on Jesus” (12:3): “weights” and “habitual sins” (12:1). The weights cause you to look down instead of up. And habitual sins make you nearsighted, or even blind (2 Cor. 4:4; 2 Peter 1:9). The weights are the cares of this world. The sins are what A. W. Tozer referred to as the hyphenated self-sins: self-esteem, self-confidence, self-worth, etc. They make you look at yourself: not Jesus!
Here are two things you can do to improve your vision. First, make it your goal to LOOK for Jesus in all things; you won’t SEE Him if you are not deliberately looking for Him! Second, PRAY for the “eyes of your spirit” to be opened. God can heal your nearsightedness and open your eyes to see Jesus.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Will Jesus Be Invited to the Pentagon?
Today is the National Day of Prayer. The Pentagon had asked Franklin Graham, the honorary chairman of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, to lead an official prayer service there. But withdrew its invitation after Muslims, Hindus, Jews, and even some mainline Protestants complained of Graham’s offensive views toward non-Christians. You see, Franklin Graham believes that Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved.
Not one to back down, Graham asserted that Muslims do not worship the same ‘God the Father’ as Christians do; and that none of the 9,000 Hindu gods could save anyone. It appears that the National Day of Prayer (which is supposed to unify Americans!) is turning into a Day of Disunity. But that should not surprise us! Jesus warned His followers He would divide people: Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword (Matt. 10:34ff).
But of course the spiritual pacifists are saying “can’t we all just get along?” Jeremiah warned of a time when people would declare Peace, peace, when there is no peace (6:14). Should Franklin Graham be making peace? No! Peace is not the same as placating: He would be compromising with the enemies of Jesus. Hold fast, my friends! The day is coming when Jesus will separate the tares from the wheat (Matt. 13:30).
Not one to back down, Graham asserted that Muslims do not worship the same ‘God the Father’ as Christians do; and that none of the 9,000 Hindu gods could save anyone. It appears that the National Day of Prayer (which is supposed to unify Americans!) is turning into a Day of Disunity. But that should not surprise us! Jesus warned His followers He would divide people: Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword (Matt. 10:34ff).
But of course the spiritual pacifists are saying “can’t we all just get along?” Jeremiah warned of a time when people would declare Peace, peace, when there is no peace (6:14). Should Franklin Graham be making peace? No! Peace is not the same as placating: He would be compromising with the enemies of Jesus. Hold fast, my friends! The day is coming when Jesus will separate the tares from the wheat (Matt. 13:30).
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
How Do You Smell?
If You Were a Perfume, Would Anyone Want to Wear You?
Wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Good News like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a fragrance presented by Christ to God… a life-giving perfume. (2 Cor. 2:14-16)
Wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Good News like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a fragrance presented by Christ to God… a life-giving perfume. (2 Cor. 2:14-16)
If You Were a Letter, Would Anyone Want to Read You?
You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God. (2 Cor. 3:2-3)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
The Rising Tide of Tolerance (Or is it Intolerance?)
As awful as they are, the floods in Tennessee are not as terrifying as the rising tide of tolerance that is diluting Biblical truth and threatens to submerge the 21st century church. I’m not afraid for the survival of the Body of Christ, but I fear for young adults who are being drowned by this flow of false teaching.
A recent USA Today article, “Young Adults less devoted to faith,” asserts that this generation is increasingly dissatisfied with narrow interpretations of the Bible and more inclined to “live and let live.” In today’s editorial section, one sympathetic writer says “I seem to remember Jesus saying something along the lines of “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you (Mat. 7:12),” i.e., “live and let live.”
Ironically, in the very next verse (7:13) after that quoted by the writer, Jesus makes what is arguably the most intolerant statement of the Sermon on the Mount: “You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose the easy way.”
Let us watch and pray for the millennial generation who have been unknowingly inundated by the philosophy of tolerance—the ‘wide open door’ policy. Beware friends: the tide is rising.
A recent USA Today article, “Young Adults less devoted to faith,” asserts that this generation is increasingly dissatisfied with narrow interpretations of the Bible and more inclined to “live and let live.” In today’s editorial section, one sympathetic writer says “I seem to remember Jesus saying something along the lines of “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you (Mat. 7:12),” i.e., “live and let live.”
Ironically, in the very next verse (7:13) after that quoted by the writer, Jesus makes what is arguably the most intolerant statement of the Sermon on the Mount: “You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose the easy way.”
Let us watch and pray for the millennial generation who have been unknowingly inundated by the philosophy of tolerance—the ‘wide open door’ policy. Beware friends: the tide is rising.
Monday, May 3, 2010
How Often Do You Wash Your Feet?
When our little children come to the dinner table, we ask them “Did you wash your hands?” But before we come to the Lord’s Table, He asks “Have you washed your feet?”
The Pharisees criticized Jesus and His disciples for not washing their hands before they ate. Ceremonial hand washing was but one of many self-imposed rituals of t he self-righteous Pharisees (Matt. 15:2, 20). Whenever the Old Testament writers employed the expression of clean hands it was always in reference to a pure heart. New Testament writer James says “Wash your hands, you sinners” (4:8).
Isn’t it curious then that Jesus (who apparently did not practice hand washing before meals) washed the Disciples' feet as part of the the Passover Supper (John 13)? Some commentators construe the “washing” of feet as equivalent to the confession of sins. When the ever passionate Peter said “Lord, wash my hands and my head,” Jesus said “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet” (John 13:10). We who have been cleansed from sin by the blood of Jesus do not need to be ‘washed’ again every time we sin. Rather, all we need to do is confess our sins—wash our feet—to be entirely clean again (1 John 1:9).
What an extraordinary paradox—our Divine Parent asks us to keep our hands clean (a pure heart) by washing our feet!
The Pharisees criticized Jesus and His disciples for not washing their hands before they ate. Ceremonial hand washing was but one of many self-imposed rituals of t he self-righteous Pharisees (Matt. 15:2, 20). Whenever the Old Testament writers employed the expression of clean hands it was always in reference to a pure heart. New Testament writer James says “Wash your hands, you sinners” (4:8).
Isn’t it curious then that Jesus (who apparently did not practice hand washing before meals) washed the Disciples' feet as part of the the Passover Supper (John 13)? Some commentators construe the “washing” of feet as equivalent to the confession of sins. When the ever passionate Peter said “Lord, wash my hands and my head,” Jesus said “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet” (John 13:10). We who have been cleansed from sin by the blood of Jesus do not need to be ‘washed’ again every time we sin. Rather, all we need to do is confess our sins—wash our feet—to be entirely clean again (1 John 1:9).
What an extraordinary paradox—our Divine Parent asks us to keep our hands clean (a pure heart) by washing our feet!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Do You Have the Love of God in Your Heart?
While reading through John’s gospel yesterday, I was struck with Jesus’ words to the Pharisees: “I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts” (John 5:42). At that point, I stopped and asked the Lord “Do I have your love in my heart?” Then I thought, 'Lord, what does it mean to have your love in my heart?' Later in the morning, this ‘e-votional’ arrived in my inbox. I hope it will provoke the same thoughtful reflection in you as it did me!
“Love means to commit yourself without guarantee, to give yourself completely in the hope that your love will produce love in the other person. Love is an act of faith, and whoever is of little faith is also of little love. Perfect love would be one that gives all and expects nothing. It would, of course, be willing and delighted to take anything that was offered, asking nothing in return. The person who expects nothing and asks nothing can never be deceived or disappointed. God’s love is unique in that it causes us to seek to meet the needs of the other rather than demanding that our own be met. Our irritability and frustration diminish when we love another person because we are seeking to fulfill rather than be fulfilled. This is what God’s love is all about.” (Norman Wright)
“Love means to commit yourself without guarantee, to give yourself completely in the hope that your love will produce love in the other person. Love is an act of faith, and whoever is of little faith is also of little love. Perfect love would be one that gives all and expects nothing. It would, of course, be willing and delighted to take anything that was offered, asking nothing in return. The person who expects nothing and asks nothing can never be deceived or disappointed. God’s love is unique in that it causes us to seek to meet the needs of the other rather than demanding that our own be met. Our irritability and frustration diminish when we love another person because we are seeking to fulfill rather than be fulfilled. This is what God’s love is all about.” (Norman Wright)
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Do You Have Enough Salt in Your Diet?
Have you been reading all the news articles about the health risk of too much salt? In short, Americans eat too much of it. It's called the silent killer!
Spiritually speaking, American Christians are not getting enough “salt” in their diets. The “seeker sensitive” movement—that began in the 80’s—unintentionally ‘dumbed down’ the average church’s teaching to themes of how to live a better life, have a good marriage, how to raise your children, etc. None of these is wrong, and certainly not heretical. But the church needs a revival of the Word: expository teaching of sound doctrine—more salt, not less.
Giving birth to a new ecclesiastical movement (the “Emerging” church) is a perception that the Church has lost its impact on a disaffected world. Their objective is to be “missional”—seeking new ways to be the salt of the earth. Unfortunately, some of these “emerging” churches have rejected sound doctrine along with stale methodologies. But perhaps they are right about this one thing: the Church is losing its saltiness.
What can you and I do about this problem. Make sure your spiritual diet is full of salt! Too little of it will silently kill you! Center your life, your thoughts, and your decisions around the Word of God: Be salty.
Spiritually speaking, American Christians are not getting enough “salt” in their diets. The “seeker sensitive” movement—that began in the 80’s—unintentionally ‘dumbed down’ the average church’s teaching to themes of how to live a better life, have a good marriage, how to raise your children, etc. None of these is wrong, and certainly not heretical. But the church needs a revival of the Word: expository teaching of sound doctrine—more salt, not less.
Giving birth to a new ecclesiastical movement (the “Emerging” church) is a perception that the Church has lost its impact on a disaffected world. Their objective is to be “missional”—seeking new ways to be the salt of the earth. Unfortunately, some of these “emerging” churches have rejected sound doctrine along with stale methodologies. But perhaps they are right about this one thing: the Church is losing its saltiness.
What can you and I do about this problem. Make sure your spiritual diet is full of salt! Too little of it will silently kill you! Center your life, your thoughts, and your decisions around the Word of God: Be salty.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Why fly like a chicken if you can soar like an eagle?
God says ‘I am like an eagle that carries you on wings of deliverance.’ (Ex. 32) Isaiah says “those who hope in the Lord… will soar on wings like eagles (40:31). Some eagles’ wings can be nearly 7 feet across. The ‘bald eagle’ rides on columns of rising air and can average speeds of 30 miles per hour. With wings like that, isn’t it obvious eagles were born to fly?
There is no bird more dissimilar from the eagle than a barnyard chicken. Chickens are quite content being earthbound and confined. Even when a chicken tries to fly, he barely gets more than a few feet off the ground! Since we possess a ‘heavenly’ spirit, there is something wrong if we are satisfied with the comfort and familiarity of earth. Created to fly like eagles, we cannot be content unless we soar in the wide-open spaces of the heavens.
Jesus said “I am from above.” Even so, we too are “born from above” and possess an innate desire to soar above the earth. I know what someone is saying right now. In your circumstances, it seems like God has clipped your wings and cooped you up. But if you will set your mind on things above and stop thinking about things on earth (Col. 3:2), you will soon be soaring like an eagle.
There is no bird more dissimilar from the eagle than a barnyard chicken. Chickens are quite content being earthbound and confined. Even when a chicken tries to fly, he barely gets more than a few feet off the ground! Since we possess a ‘heavenly’ spirit, there is something wrong if we are satisfied with the comfort and familiarity of earth. Created to fly like eagles, we cannot be content unless we soar in the wide-open spaces of the heavens.
Jesus said “I am from above.” Even so, we too are “born from above” and possess an innate desire to soar above the earth. I know what someone is saying right now. In your circumstances, it seems like God has clipped your wings and cooped you up. But if you will set your mind on things above and stop thinking about things on earth (Col. 3:2), you will soon be soaring like an eagle.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Have You Ever Tried Nailing Jello to the Wall?
Last week Zac Poonen posted a teaching called “God Wants us to Recognize Our Nothingness,” which prompted me to expand on his idea in today’s post: God wants us to recognize our nothingness so that He can fill us with His abundance and so that Satan cannot touch us.
Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth” (1 Cor. 3:7-8). In other words, the one who does evangelism is nothing and the one who does Bible teaching is also nothing. God alone is everything and without Him is nothing. The secret to Paul’s success—he embraced his nothingness and reveled in God’s abundance.
Even more, when you have been reduced to nothing (of your ‘self’), you are really free. No more defensiveness—because you have nothing to defend. No longer critical—because nothing bothers you. Offensive and irritating people will still try to evoke some negative reaction from you. Satan’s minions will harass you. But if you have embraced your nothingness, even the demons will find no place to engage. Jesus said “the ruler of the world is coming, and he has nothing in me” (Jn. 14:30). Wouldn’t that be great if Satan couldn’t get a hold on you? His attempts to pin you down would be like trying to nail jello to the wall.
Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth” (1 Cor. 3:7-8). In other words, the one who does evangelism is nothing and the one who does Bible teaching is also nothing. God alone is everything and without Him is nothing. The secret to Paul’s success—he embraced his nothingness and reveled in God’s abundance.
Even more, when you have been reduced to nothing (of your ‘self’), you are really free. No more defensiveness—because you have nothing to defend. No longer critical—because nothing bothers you. Offensive and irritating people will still try to evoke some negative reaction from you. Satan’s minions will harass you. But if you have embraced your nothingness, even the demons will find no place to engage. Jesus said “the ruler of the world is coming, and he has nothing in me” (Jn. 14:30). Wouldn’t that be great if Satan couldn’t get a hold on you? His attempts to pin you down would be like trying to nail jello to the wall.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Off Ramp Closed
Last week my daily route to 24-Hour Fitness was interrupted by road work. Bright orange cones blocked the off ramp to San Antonio Road. Immediately, I saw a great blog post.
As you travel the “Holy Highway,” every time you go back to your old ways of getting relief or revenge or act out your pain, you are improperly exiting God’s path of righteousness (Prov. 4:14; Is. 26:7). And getting off on “Compromise Lane” makes it that much easier to come back for a return trip the next time things aren't going your way.
Off ramps are enticements that lead to unrighteous roads. But as a traveler with Jesus, you have no business getting off His highway to go there anymore—these dead-end boulevards of shame and regrets. But Good News, my fellow travelers! God has given you power steering—it is the power to stay on course—to drive straight (Prov. 3:6). Every time you lean hard into the Holy Spirit for the strength to resist that wrong turn, you not only continue in joyful pursuit of your destination, you have just closed another off ramp.
As you travel the “Holy Highway,” every time you go back to your old ways of getting relief or revenge or act out your pain, you are improperly exiting God’s path of righteousness (Prov. 4:14; Is. 26:7). And getting off on “Compromise Lane” makes it that much easier to come back for a return trip the next time things aren't going your way.
Off ramps are enticements that lead to unrighteous roads. But as a traveler with Jesus, you have no business getting off His highway to go there anymore—these dead-end boulevards of shame and regrets. But Good News, my fellow travelers! God has given you power steering—it is the power to stay on course—to drive straight (Prov. 3:6). Every time you lean hard into the Holy Spirit for the strength to resist that wrong turn, you not only continue in joyful pursuit of your destination, you have just closed another off ramp.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Hating Yourself is the Beginning of Loving God
Have you ever said “I hate myself; I’m a failure—I will never be good enough”? That’s a great place to be—hating yourself is the beginning of loving God. Jesus said: He that loves his life shall lose it; and he that hates his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal (John 12:25).
What does Jesus mean? He means we hate our sinful flesh as it manifests itself more times in a day than we want to admit. He means we hate our selfishness and self-centeredness. He means we hate our life when it becomes all about earthly things: obligations, duties, responsibilities—the cares of this world.
A holy hatred of all that keeps you from experiencing your victory in Jesus should rise up in your soul, where you cry out, 'Oh, God! I hate what I have become.' You must hate your present life so much that you cry out to God, “who will deliver me from this body of sin and death?” (Ro. 7:24). Then you are ready to make the great exchange—your emptiness for His fullness; your pride for His glory. Hate yourself? Yes. But don’t stay there. Let God’s love embrace you and lead you into the present reality of eternal life and love.
What does Jesus mean? He means we hate our sinful flesh as it manifests itself more times in a day than we want to admit. He means we hate our selfishness and self-centeredness. He means we hate our life when it becomes all about earthly things: obligations, duties, responsibilities—the cares of this world.
A holy hatred of all that keeps you from experiencing your victory in Jesus should rise up in your soul, where you cry out, 'Oh, God! I hate what I have become.' You must hate your present life so much that you cry out to God, “who will deliver me from this body of sin and death?” (Ro. 7:24). Then you are ready to make the great exchange—your emptiness for His fullness; your pride for His glory. Hate yourself? Yes. But don’t stay there. Let God’s love embrace you and lead you into the present reality of eternal life and love.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
How Will You Celebrate Earth Day?
Today marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.
Undoubtedly, today you will hear the term Mother Earth to describe the source, giver and sustainer of life. In the wake of the Iceland Volcano eruption this past week I have heard the term used by mainstream TV newscasters more than once. The idea of a pagan goddess who created and sustains the earth is not only foolish and silly; it’s insulting.
I don’t know whether or not Christians should support Earth Day. Certainly you can make a sound biblical argument that God wants His children to be caretakers (not abusers) of the animals and the wildlife on our planet earth. Certainly, we should all be mindful of being good stewards over all God has given us. But even more....
Let this be a day to remind ourselves of this: Jesus Christ is Lord over all of creation (Ps. 24:1; Col. 1:16). Today is a day to give thanks to “God who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17). As others celebrate Mother Earth, let us remember that at every moment all the energy in the universe is supplied by Jesus Christ, who is sustaining all things by his powerful word (Hebrews 11:3).
Undoubtedly, today you will hear the term Mother Earth to describe the source, giver and sustainer of life. In the wake of the Iceland Volcano eruption this past week I have heard the term used by mainstream TV newscasters more than once. The idea of a pagan goddess who created and sustains the earth is not only foolish and silly; it’s insulting.
I don’t know whether or not Christians should support Earth Day. Certainly you can make a sound biblical argument that God wants His children to be caretakers (not abusers) of the animals and the wildlife on our planet earth. Certainly, we should all be mindful of being good stewards over all God has given us. But even more....
Let this be a day to remind ourselves of this: Jesus Christ is Lord over all of creation (Ps. 24:1; Col. 1:16). Today is a day to give thanks to “God who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17). As others celebrate Mother Earth, let us remember that at every moment all the energy in the universe is supplied by Jesus Christ, who is sustaining all things by his powerful word (Hebrews 11:3).
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Come and Sit for Awhile
I love the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42) for its offering of spiritual insight: in particular, as we see Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening intently to “every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4).
Sitting teaches us that our hearts must be at rest and our minds still, before we can give God our undivided attention. When Altha and I have something important to discuss, we don’t stand in the kitchen; we sit in the living room. Preoccupation with the affairs of this world will “stand” in the way (pun intended) of quiet time with Jesus. When Jesus finished His work on earth, He sat down next to His Father (Eph. 1:20).
Sitting at someone’s feet is an act of humility. Mary positioned herself below Jesus. God waits to speak to the child-like, humble person (Matt. 11:25). Sitting as Mary did is a picture of subjection—the position of the true disciple in the presence of his Master. I don't mean to be cavalier with this comparison, but my daughter and he husband just got a dog. And the first think they taught their little puppy was to sit. Why? Sitting is the position of submission—of obedience.
Can you hear Jesus saying come and sit for awhile “and learn from Me [listen to me, submit to me, obey me] and you will find rest for your souls”? (Matt. 11:28).
Sitting teaches us that our hearts must be at rest and our minds still, before we can give God our undivided attention. When Altha and I have something important to discuss, we don’t stand in the kitchen; we sit in the living room. Preoccupation with the affairs of this world will “stand” in the way (pun intended) of quiet time with Jesus. When Jesus finished His work on earth, He sat down next to His Father (Eph. 1:20).
Sitting at someone’s feet is an act of humility. Mary positioned herself below Jesus. God waits to speak to the child-like, humble person (Matt. 11:25). Sitting as Mary did is a picture of subjection—the position of the true disciple in the presence of his Master. I don't mean to be cavalier with this comparison, but my daughter and he husband just got a dog. And the first think they taught their little puppy was to sit. Why? Sitting is the position of submission—of obedience.
Can you hear Jesus saying come and sit for awhile “and learn from Me [listen to me, submit to me, obey me] and you will find rest for your souls”? (Matt. 11:28).
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
You are the Scum of the Earth
Some believers in Denver have chosen to name their church the “Scum of the Earth”—that being lifted from Paul’s statement: “We respond gently when evil things are said about us. Yet we are treated like the world’s garbage [the scum of the earth] like everybody's trash…” (I Cor. 4:13, NLT, NIV in brackets).
Maybe we are not being treated like the scum of the earth today, but Jesus spoke of a day when we would: “when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.” (Matt. 5:11) But Jesus didn’t leave it at that. He went on to say: “Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted too” (5:12). But then Jesus said [but you are not the scum of the earth,] “you are the salt of the earth” (5:13).
I could write a book about this analogy but I will emphasize two things. On one hand, salt makes foods better—sweets taste sweeter; naturally bitter foods, like chocolate, become deliciously palatable. And even more, salt is a preservative (you will find tons of it in canned and frozen foods!). On the other hand, too much salt can harm you—causing high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks.
Can you see the paradox? Though our saltiness is meant to bring the sweetness of Jesus to a bitter world, it offends unbelievers, causing them (metaphorically) strokes and heart failure. And for that reason they hate us. Don’t hesitate to salt the world around you for fear of being reviled. But be like those Christians in Denver who proudly call themselves the scum of the earth!
Maybe we are not being treated like the scum of the earth today, but Jesus spoke of a day when we would: “when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.” (Matt. 5:11) But Jesus didn’t leave it at that. He went on to say: “Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted too” (5:12). But then Jesus said [but you are not the scum of the earth,] “you are the salt of the earth” (5:13).
I could write a book about this analogy but I will emphasize two things. On one hand, salt makes foods better—sweets taste sweeter; naturally bitter foods, like chocolate, become deliciously palatable. And even more, salt is a preservative (you will find tons of it in canned and frozen foods!). On the other hand, too much salt can harm you—causing high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks.
Can you see the paradox? Though our saltiness is meant to bring the sweetness of Jesus to a bitter world, it offends unbelievers, causing them (metaphorically) strokes and heart failure. And for that reason they hate us. Don’t hesitate to salt the world around you for fear of being reviled. But be like those Christians in Denver who proudly call themselves the scum of the earth!
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Word, the Spirit, and the Devil
The Holy Spirit inspired men to write the Bible (2 Peter 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:16), breathing the Words right into them. This is what makes the inspired Word of God a divinely powerful weapon against the enemy (2 Cor. 10:5). Because Satan is powerful, you will need something that is even more powerful: God’s Word. Even Jesus knew this, using specific Scriptures to refute the devil’s lies (Matthew 4).
Because the Holy Spirit inspired the Word, He alone empowers its use in demonic warfare. He brings to our minds the Words that will defeat the enemy (John 14:26). Paul testified that the heart of his gospel message was the Spirit-empowered Word (1 Thess. 1:5). If you have not realized God’s power in battle against the devil, and if you are not experiencing victory over sin, is it because you forgot to make use of the Spirit empowered Word at your moment of temptation?
Because the Holy Spirit inspired the Word, He alone empowers its use in demonic warfare. He brings to our minds the Words that will defeat the enemy (John 14:26). Paul testified that the heart of his gospel message was the Spirit-empowered Word (1 Thess. 1:5). If you have not realized God’s power in battle against the devil, and if you are not experiencing victory over sin, is it because you forgot to make use of the Spirit empowered Word at your moment of temptation?
Friday, April 16, 2010
Are You Testing God?
It’s easy to look back critically on the Jewish sojourners who tested God’s patience in the Wilderness. “We would never have done that,” we think. But Paul warns us that “We must not put the Lord to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents” (1 Cor. 10:9).
How is it that we test the Lord? By testing the limits of His grace; taking advantage of His grace. “Just how close can I get to sinning without facing the consequences?” we think. While we may never admit thinking this, our ambivalence toward sin gives us away.
What’s worse is that when we permit ourselves these private indulgences, we not only test God’s patience, but we become desensitized to sin’s injury—which can lead to a hardening of your spiritual arteries: “Don't harden your hearts against Him as Israel did when they rebelled, when they tested God's patience in the wilderness” (Heb. 3:8).
I can tell you that your heart is already getting hardened if you think your indulgences are of little consequence. But treating sin lightly shows contempt for God’s grace. Let's examine our hearts, and ask the Lord to show us how we have been testing the limits of His grace.
How is it that we test the Lord? By testing the limits of His grace; taking advantage of His grace. “Just how close can I get to sinning without facing the consequences?” we think. While we may never admit thinking this, our ambivalence toward sin gives us away.
What’s worse is that when we permit ourselves these private indulgences, we not only test God’s patience, but we become desensitized to sin’s injury—which can lead to a hardening of your spiritual arteries: “Don't harden your hearts against Him as Israel did when they rebelled, when they tested God's patience in the wilderness” (Heb. 3:8).
I can tell you that your heart is already getting hardened if you think your indulgences are of little consequence. But treating sin lightly shows contempt for God’s grace. Let's examine our hearts, and ask the Lord to show us how we have been testing the limits of His grace.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
How Much Do You Owe?
April 15: the day of reckoning: Your taxes are due. Famous for declaring that the only certainty in life is “death and taxes,” Benjamin Franklin also said government taxes were nothing compared to our more grievous obligations. “We are taxed twice as much by our idleness, 3 times as much by our pride, and 4 times as much by our folly,” he said. Now there’s a man who did not understand forgiveness.
Forgiveness is to be free of obligation. Imagine for a moment that you have received a letter from IRS forgiving your tax obligation. But “feeling” undeserving, you refuse their offer. You pay it anyway.
I think many Christians live under false debt, presuming their sins are too great to be forgiven. “I know God forgives me, but I just can’t forgive myself,” they say, thus lingering in their guilt. Do you know the Bible never talks about “forgiving yourself?” Only God can forgive. You possess no such power within yourself! And God's forgiveness is based on Christ having paid our obligation in full. It is as simple as that (1 Jn. 1:9).
Moreover, the Bible says that when God forgives us, He remembers our sins no more (Jer. 31:34). Not that He forgets, but that He chooses not to remember. If God chooses not to remember your sins, why do you? (And how much more insulting is your failure to receive God’s forgiveness than to refuse forgiveness from the IRS!) Do your former sins keep coming to your mind? Choose to remember them no more! Fill your mind with gratitude. And rejoice that you are debt free. You owe absolutely nothing.
Forgiveness is to be free of obligation. Imagine for a moment that you have received a letter from IRS forgiving your tax obligation. But “feeling” undeserving, you refuse their offer. You pay it anyway.
I think many Christians live under false debt, presuming their sins are too great to be forgiven. “I know God forgives me, but I just can’t forgive myself,” they say, thus lingering in their guilt. Do you know the Bible never talks about “forgiving yourself?” Only God can forgive. You possess no such power within yourself! And God's forgiveness is based on Christ having paid our obligation in full. It is as simple as that (1 Jn. 1:9).
Moreover, the Bible says that when God forgives us, He remembers our sins no more (Jer. 31:34). Not that He forgets, but that He chooses not to remember. If God chooses not to remember your sins, why do you? (And how much more insulting is your failure to receive God’s forgiveness than to refuse forgiveness from the IRS!) Do your former sins keep coming to your mind? Choose to remember them no more! Fill your mind with gratitude. And rejoice that you are debt free. You owe absolutely nothing.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The UN-Branded Generation
Remember when 7-Up was promoted as the “UN-cola?” Well, according to a Pew Research survey, the Milliennials (the first generation of the 21st century) are the UN-branded generation— they are rejecting religious denominations—UN-willing to conform to or be labeled by tired traditions.
Frankly, I fail to see how this makes the Millennials so different from my generation—the Baby Boomers. We also were dissatisfied with the status quo, looking for ‘new’ ways of expressing. We too were disturbed by the feeble state of the church. So the “Jesus Movement” was born: new ministries and “Bible churches” were launched. The question is “how will the Millennials—the ‘net’ generation—deal with their disillusionment?” Having grown up watching reality TV, no doubt they are expecting genuineness from their church experience. I believe this desire for authenticity underlies the emerging church movement.
Pray that this “hungry-for-change” generation will not be so eager for change they will believe in almost anyone who promises it. Peter warns in the ‘latter days’ there will be false teachers who will secretly introduce destructive heresies…” (1 Pet. 2:1). We are already seeing heretical doctrine coming out of some of the emerging churches. Pray that our UN-branded Millennial children will not fall for the wrong brand!
Frankly, I fail to see how this makes the Millennials so different from my generation—the Baby Boomers. We also were dissatisfied with the status quo, looking for ‘new’ ways of expressing. We too were disturbed by the feeble state of the church. So the “Jesus Movement” was born: new ministries and “Bible churches” were launched. The question is “how will the Millennials—the ‘net’ generation—deal with their disillusionment?” Having grown up watching reality TV, no doubt they are expecting genuineness from their church experience. I believe this desire for authenticity underlies the emerging church movement.
Pray that this “hungry-for-change” generation will not be so eager for change they will believe in almost anyone who promises it. Peter warns in the ‘latter days’ there will be false teachers who will secretly introduce destructive heresies…” (1 Pet. 2:1). We are already seeing heretical doctrine coming out of some of the emerging churches. Pray that our UN-branded Millennial children will not fall for the wrong brand!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Are You Finding Rest?
A weary traveler arriving in an unfamiliar town says to a local resident “I am looking for a place to rest.” And the local responds “Well, let me know when you find it!”
In our faster-than-the-speed-of-light world, we are all seeking rest. Even in Jesus’ day, He recognized the need for stress release, assuring His fatigued followers: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Mat. 11:28). Now the truth is no one can “give” you rest any more than someone can “give” you laughter. But just as someone can “cause” you to laugh, so Jesus can “cause” you to rest.
While Jesus will cause you to rest, He also explains that you will need to “find” it—implying rest is something that can be “lost.” How? Through the stress of daily life. Growing up in a world of chaos and unpredictability, we have learned creative ways of managing stress—eventually finding they don’t work. Thus Jesus says “come and learn from me… Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Mat. 11:29). In order to learn Jesus' way of finding rest, no doubt there will be a need for some unlearning.
I encourage you today to spend some time asking the Lord to help you identify those things you will have to ‘unlearn’ before you can learn how to find it in Him!
In our faster-than-the-speed-of-light world, we are all seeking rest. Even in Jesus’ day, He recognized the need for stress release, assuring His fatigued followers: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Mat. 11:28). Now the truth is no one can “give” you rest any more than someone can “give” you laughter. But just as someone can “cause” you to laugh, so Jesus can “cause” you to rest.
While Jesus will cause you to rest, He also explains that you will need to “find” it—implying rest is something that can be “lost.” How? Through the stress of daily life. Growing up in a world of chaos and unpredictability, we have learned creative ways of managing stress—eventually finding they don’t work. Thus Jesus says “come and learn from me… Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Mat. 11:29). In order to learn Jesus' way of finding rest, no doubt there will be a need for some unlearning.
I encourage you today to spend some time asking the Lord to help you identify those things you will have to ‘unlearn’ before you can learn how to find it in Him!
Monday, April 12, 2010
"In Step" or "Twelve Steps"?
In the past 50 years, our culture has given birth to a multitude of self-help gurus who promise success to anyone willing to follow their steps: 3 easy steps to weight loss, 7 steps to reaching your potential, 12 steps to recovery… But the apostle Paul’s ‘formula’ for success was simple: just keep ‘in-step’ with the Holy Spirit.
To the Galatians Paul said walk [keep stepping] by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh (5:16). A few verses later, Paul clarifies: let us keep in step with the Spirit (5:25, NIV). The phrase, “keep in step,” was used by the Greeks to express the regimented walk of soldiers—literally, in lock-step with one another.
As a counselor I certainly value ‘step’ recovery programs for their practical guidance. But I also know, both by way of experience and by Paul’s simple admonition (Gal. 5:16), that no number of steps will get you to your desired destination unless you are walking “in step” with the Holy Spirit.
Think about it: the last time you stumbled, you were not “in step” with the Spirit, were you!?
To the Galatians Paul said walk [keep stepping] by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh (5:16). A few verses later, Paul clarifies: let us keep in step with the Spirit (5:25, NIV). The phrase, “keep in step,” was used by the Greeks to express the regimented walk of soldiers—literally, in lock-step with one another.
As a counselor I certainly value ‘step’ recovery programs for their practical guidance. But I also know, both by way of experience and by Paul’s simple admonition (Gal. 5:16), that no number of steps will get you to your desired destination unless you are walking “in step” with the Holy Spirit.
Think about it: the last time you stumbled, you were not “in step” with the Spirit, were you!?
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