"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual] act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2
Wikipedia defines a neural network as a "population of physically interconnected neurons or a group of disparate neurons whose inputs or signaling targets define a recognizable circuit." Within a human brain hundreds of thousands of neurons are interconnected in a complex “wiring harness” (neural network) that controls all functions of the human body including our behavior.
New scientific discoveries http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081124174909.htm are beginning to show that the brain, specifically these neural networks, may be able to “remodel” itself and potentially change our functional characteristics and behavior! MRI studies of juvenile stroke victims, for example, have shown that the young brain has actually “re-wired” the stroke-damaged areas allowing speech and other faculty losses to be partially or completely recovered. Research using neural networks has also been used to demonstrate how symptoms may arise from breakdowns in normal brain processes in patients with autism, a neuro-developmental disorder in which sufferers have impaired social interactions, deficiencies in verbal and non-verbal communication and inconsistency in cognitive abilities.
These discoveries are exciting for the believer, because they serve to further confirm the truth of the word of God. When Paul says, “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” we know that our minds can be physically renewed when we drop old habits and replace them with new ones. When we open ourselves to the word of God and are careful to not continue the patterns of our former selves, our minds will actually re-wire itself into a more Christ-like brain! AWESOME!
What scientists are learning now through the use of MRI brain studies is a concept that God gave us in his word. By being obedient to God’s word, consistently and through true repentance from the misbehavior of our lives before accepting Jesus Christ, we can transform ourselves into “new creations” in Christ. As we leave another year behind this scripture gives us hope for real change in the coming year. We can once and for all transform ourselves and “be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will “
My prayer. Father, I pray in earnest in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior and Deliverer, asking that you create in us a fire to change what is displeasing to you so that through the wonder our created bodies and minds we can truly transform ourselves into “new creations” that may be of better service to You and your Kingdom. Thank you Lord for the gift of our bodies and the ability to take what we have damaged and make it new again! Amen!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Spiritual Renewal (Part 2)
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2
Next, Paul tells us that in order to discover the perfect will of God in our lives that we should no longer "conform ...to the pattern of this world.” A pattern is a template or model used to generate things or a theme of events that occur in a repetitious and predictable manner. A pattern, good or bad, is a habit and our world operates in a many predictable patterns.
Greed, gluttony and alcoholism are three prevalent patterns in our world. The average American, rich and poor alike, wants everything in the greatest quantities at the lowest cost even when the material is not needed. Consuming food to excess or eating when in a certain setting such as a baseball game or a movie theater even when not hungry is a common pattern. And drinking alcohol to excess at a New Year's party or stopping off for a beer after work is typical behavior for many people.
Not all habits are harmful and in fact many habits (patterns) are beneficial. A routine creates discipline and helps to minimize errors especially in complex operations. Developing a schedule for a new born baby helps to regulate sleep patterns and bodily functions and eases the workload for new parents. We must take stock in our good and bad habits through the lens of God's Word to measure their benefit to our relationship with our Father.
Paul, is telling the Christians in Rome that when they accepted Christ as their redeemer and received a new heart, it was time to examine the patterns of their world, the old habits they created in their former lives and begin to cast off the bad habits and discontinue them. What was normal behavior before, is probably not acceptable as a believer in Christ. The time is now, Paul says, to be more Christ-like and less self-like!
As the year draws to a close, it is time we take inventory of the patterns of this world that have become our bad habits and stop conforming our lives to those patterns. We must abstain from worldly habits and replace them with Christ-like habits. Change of this magnitude is a process that will not happen overnight, but we cannot grow weary as it will last for the rest of our lives in Christ. Rather, we must start now and let God help us grow into the men and women of God he has called us to be.
My prayer. Father, you know what I struggle with. You know what holds me back from giving myself fully to you. Show me the patterns of this world that I have claimed as my own and have a negative stronghold in my life. Help me today to begin the process of freeing myself from old habits that are displeasing to you. Thank you Lord for granting me this request, in Jesus name, Amen!
Next, Paul tells us that in order to discover the perfect will of God in our lives that we should no longer "conform ...to the pattern of this world.” A pattern is a template or model used to generate things or a theme of events that occur in a repetitious and predictable manner. A pattern, good or bad, is a habit and our world operates in a many predictable patterns.
Greed, gluttony and alcoholism are three prevalent patterns in our world. The average American, rich and poor alike, wants everything in the greatest quantities at the lowest cost even when the material is not needed. Consuming food to excess or eating when in a certain setting such as a baseball game or a movie theater even when not hungry is a common pattern. And drinking alcohol to excess at a New Year's party or stopping off for a beer after work is typical behavior for many people.
Not all habits are harmful and in fact many habits (patterns) are beneficial. A routine creates discipline and helps to minimize errors especially in complex operations. Developing a schedule for a new born baby helps to regulate sleep patterns and bodily functions and eases the workload for new parents. We must take stock in our good and bad habits through the lens of God's Word to measure their benefit to our relationship with our Father.
Paul, is telling the Christians in Rome that when they accepted Christ as their redeemer and received a new heart, it was time to examine the patterns of their world, the old habits they created in their former lives and begin to cast off the bad habits and discontinue them. What was normal behavior before, is probably not acceptable as a believer in Christ. The time is now, Paul says, to be more Christ-like and less self-like!
As the year draws to a close, it is time we take inventory of the patterns of this world that have become our bad habits and stop conforming our lives to those patterns. We must abstain from worldly habits and replace them with Christ-like habits. Change of this magnitude is a process that will not happen overnight, but we cannot grow weary as it will last for the rest of our lives in Christ. Rather, we must start now and let God help us grow into the men and women of God he has called us to be.
My prayer. Father, you know what I struggle with. You know what holds me back from giving myself fully to you. Show me the patterns of this world that I have claimed as my own and have a negative stronghold in my life. Help me today to begin the process of freeing myself from old habits that are displeasing to you. Thank you Lord for granting me this request, in Jesus name, Amen!
Spiritual Renewal (Part 1)
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2
At the end of every year, most of us pause and reflect upon those things we would like to change in our lives. Often, we start the New Year with a resolution to change something we dislike in ourselves. However, by the end of February, the resolution is most always forgotten and life goes back to normal until next December. I think this holds true in our walks with the Lord. He makes known to us something He would like us to change or improve so that we could better serve Him and others; we recognize His call and begin on our own to change but soon give up in frustration, unsuccessful.
As I studied Romans chapter 12, the Lord made me aware of some old habits that I have retained since being saved. The Lord pointed out that they are creating separation between the Father and I and are inhibiting me from enjoying the fullness of joy he has planned for my life. Obviously they have to go, but how can I rid myself of these obstacles.
Paul describes three practical things we can do to rid ourselves of the obstacles in our relationship with the Father and discover God’s will for our lives. He says we are to:
1. “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God as a spiritual act of worship;”
2. (no longer) "conform... to the pattern of this world;” and
3. “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Christians everywhere are looking for the answer to the question, what is God’s will, “His good and pleasing will.” How many hours of study and prayer are put in trying to discover God’s plan for our lives? Paul, says the answer is quite simple, "Offer your bodies (to Him) as living sacrifices.” By offering ourselves completely to God we are not only worshiping Him but we are placing ourselves on a path of discovery toward God’s will!
We can't however offer ourselves completely "holy and pleasing" to God until we first do a couple things. The most essential step is to accept the Jesus Christ into your heart as Lord and Saviour. Without admitting sinfulness and the redeeming power of the blood of Jesus Christ, no resolution or any other self-improvement promise will make us holy and pleasing. We must begin on our knees in prayer asking Jesus to dwell inside us and accept his sacrifice on the cross to remove our sins once and for all. Once this step has been taken a process of prayer, daily scripture reading, and regular worship and fellowship with God and other Christians must begin. In that process of walking in relationship with the Father, He will begin to reveal those areas in your life that need to be confessed and turned away (repented) from.
Tomorrow, we will continue looking and meditating on this verse and discover how, we can remove those obstacles, that, although we are saved, hinder us from realizing the fullness of joy our Heavenly Father has planned for us.
My prayer. Father, we are sinners and it is only through your love for us and the sacrifice of your only Son that we can be presented to you as holy and living sacrifices to you. In the days ahead Father hear our prayers and reveal to us the places in our lives that are causing us to stumble in our walk with you. Show us Father where the Enemy has been able to establish a stronghold in our lives so that we may begin to tear it down and eliminate that which is blinding us from seeing your good and perfect will for our lives and for the advancement of Your Kingdom on earth. I pray in earnest in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior and Deliverer, Amen!
At the end of every year, most of us pause and reflect upon those things we would like to change in our lives. Often, we start the New Year with a resolution to change something we dislike in ourselves. However, by the end of February, the resolution is most always forgotten and life goes back to normal until next December. I think this holds true in our walks with the Lord. He makes known to us something He would like us to change or improve so that we could better serve Him and others; we recognize His call and begin on our own to change but soon give up in frustration, unsuccessful.
As I studied Romans chapter 12, the Lord made me aware of some old habits that I have retained since being saved. The Lord pointed out that they are creating separation between the Father and I and are inhibiting me from enjoying the fullness of joy he has planned for my life. Obviously they have to go, but how can I rid myself of these obstacles.
Paul describes three practical things we can do to rid ourselves of the obstacles in our relationship with the Father and discover God’s will for our lives. He says we are to:
1. “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God as a spiritual act of worship;”
2. (no longer) "conform... to the pattern of this world;” and
3. “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Christians everywhere are looking for the answer to the question, what is God’s will, “His good and pleasing will.” How many hours of study and prayer are put in trying to discover God’s plan for our lives? Paul, says the answer is quite simple, "Offer your bodies (to Him) as living sacrifices.” By offering ourselves completely to God we are not only worshiping Him but we are placing ourselves on a path of discovery toward God’s will!
We can't however offer ourselves completely "holy and pleasing" to God until we first do a couple things. The most essential step is to accept the Jesus Christ into your heart as Lord and Saviour. Without admitting sinfulness and the redeeming power of the blood of Jesus Christ, no resolution or any other self-improvement promise will make us holy and pleasing. We must begin on our knees in prayer asking Jesus to dwell inside us and accept his sacrifice on the cross to remove our sins once and for all. Once this step has been taken a process of prayer, daily scripture reading, and regular worship and fellowship with God and other Christians must begin. In that process of walking in relationship with the Father, He will begin to reveal those areas in your life that need to be confessed and turned away (repented) from.
Tomorrow, we will continue looking and meditating on this verse and discover how, we can remove those obstacles, that, although we are saved, hinder us from realizing the fullness of joy our Heavenly Father has planned for us.
My prayer. Father, we are sinners and it is only through your love for us and the sacrifice of your only Son that we can be presented to you as holy and living sacrifices to you. In the days ahead Father hear our prayers and reveal to us the places in our lives that are causing us to stumble in our walk with you. Show us Father where the Enemy has been able to establish a stronghold in our lives so that we may begin to tear it down and eliminate that which is blinding us from seeing your good and perfect will for our lives and for the advancement of Your Kingdom on earth. I pray in earnest in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior and Deliverer, Amen!
Friday, December 26, 2008
Intent of the Heart
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Heb 4:12
Yesterday we celebrated the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, the Word of God "made flesh." I have spent the last three weeks trying to unpack what God was doing when he used a little baby in a non-descript manger in a little known town to fulfill prophecy that had been spoken of since the beginning of time. His Word made flesh, Emmanuel (God with Us) a baby? My pastor said on Christmas Eve, "if we had a million years to unpack the story of Christmas we could never fully comprehend everything God did in Bethlehem on that day." I agree!
Jesus came and dwelt among us, and forgave our sins by dying on a cross but, he did something else, he showed us what God was like. Jesus gave us a frame of reference around which we mortals could hope to understand the infinite and in doing so, he altered how we look at our faith and what God really requires from us as believers. Jesus made us look at more than the "rules;" he forced us to look at our hearts (our motives). No longer can we just look at we do outwardly (when others are watching), we must now truly change our motivations because God knows the intents of our hearts even when we don't act upon our desires.
For example, Jesus said to his disciples gathered on the Mount of Olives in Matthew Chapter 5, "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: (Ex. 20.14 · Deut. 5.18 ) but I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; (Ex. 20.13 · Deut. 5.17) and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: but I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire."
How can we now possibly be obedient to God, given Jesus' new interpretation? Are we now doomed to a fiery death in hell because "God was made flesh and dwelt among us"? How can this be? Why would God do this?
The answer is quite simple yet extremely complex. Belief in Jesus is the simple answer yet God's choice for redemption is so elegantly complex that a thousand of the world's best minds taking a million lifetimes of thought could not unravel its mysteries. God knew that his Creation could never live up to his standards, so he had to develop and air-tight means to remain true to his Word and yet allow us a way to eternal ("sinless") life. He sent himself in the form of a baby who would grow into a "sinless" mortal man to take our sins upon himself and die so that we maybe sinless in His sight. The only thing now that anyone needs to do is to have faith in what happened and believe that God gives this gift freely to anyone who asks at any time in his or her life! Amazing love!
As I consider the enormous love God has for us and his exacting standards as expressed in Hebrews 4:12, I must constantly fall to my knees and thank Him for his mercy because I know I am doomed without his grace!
My prayer. Father, thank you that your word is quick and powerful and that it gets straight to our sins and exposes them in plain sight. Thank you Lord that we cannot hide from our unclean hearts, because our hearts makes us realize there is no hope except through the blood of Jesus Christ. He is "the Way the truth and the life" and I praise you for it. Forgive me Lord in my sinfulness and lead me back to you. My prayer goes out today to all Christians who are struggling may they return to you and stop their wandering in darkness. I pray Lord, earnestly, for those who have yet to come to know you as their Lord and Savior. Change their hearts Lord and whisper to them through your saints here on earth, that they may hear your call and lay themselves at the foot of the cross and ask you to give them new hearts. All this I pray in the Name above all names, Jesus Christ, Amen!
Yesterday we celebrated the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, the Word of God "made flesh." I have spent the last three weeks trying to unpack what God was doing when he used a little baby in a non-descript manger in a little known town to fulfill prophecy that had been spoken of since the beginning of time. His Word made flesh, Emmanuel (God with Us) a baby? My pastor said on Christmas Eve, "if we had a million years to unpack the story of Christmas we could never fully comprehend everything God did in Bethlehem on that day." I agree!
Jesus came and dwelt among us, and forgave our sins by dying on a cross but, he did something else, he showed us what God was like. Jesus gave us a frame of reference around which we mortals could hope to understand the infinite and in doing so, he altered how we look at our faith and what God really requires from us as believers. Jesus made us look at more than the "rules;" he forced us to look at our hearts (our motives). No longer can we just look at we do outwardly (when others are watching), we must now truly change our motivations because God knows the intents of our hearts even when we don't act upon our desires.
For example, Jesus said to his disciples gathered on the Mount of Olives in Matthew Chapter 5, "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: (Ex. 20.14 · Deut. 5.18 ) but I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; (Ex. 20.13 · Deut. 5.17) and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: but I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire."
How can we now possibly be obedient to God, given Jesus' new interpretation? Are we now doomed to a fiery death in hell because "God was made flesh and dwelt among us"? How can this be? Why would God do this?
The answer is quite simple yet extremely complex. Belief in Jesus is the simple answer yet God's choice for redemption is so elegantly complex that a thousand of the world's best minds taking a million lifetimes of thought could not unravel its mysteries. God knew that his Creation could never live up to his standards, so he had to develop and air-tight means to remain true to his Word and yet allow us a way to eternal ("sinless") life. He sent himself in the form of a baby who would grow into a "sinless" mortal man to take our sins upon himself and die so that we maybe sinless in His sight. The only thing now that anyone needs to do is to have faith in what happened and believe that God gives this gift freely to anyone who asks at any time in his or her life! Amazing love!
As I consider the enormous love God has for us and his exacting standards as expressed in Hebrews 4:12, I must constantly fall to my knees and thank Him for his mercy because I know I am doomed without his grace!
My prayer. Father, thank you that your word is quick and powerful and that it gets straight to our sins and exposes them in plain sight. Thank you Lord that we cannot hide from our unclean hearts, because our hearts makes us realize there is no hope except through the blood of Jesus Christ. He is "the Way the truth and the life" and I praise you for it. Forgive me Lord in my sinfulness and lead me back to you. My prayer goes out today to all Christians who are struggling may they return to you and stop their wandering in darkness. I pray Lord, earnestly, for those who have yet to come to know you as their Lord and Savior. Change their hearts Lord and whisper to them through your saints here on earth, that they may hear your call and lay themselves at the foot of the cross and ask you to give them new hearts. All this I pray in the Name above all names, Jesus Christ, Amen!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Unto Us a Child is Born
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace Isa 9:6
More than 700 years before he was born, the prophet Isaiah wrote these words. The prophecy would be fulfilled in an obscure town called Bethlehem. A child would be born of a virgin and he would change the world forever for generations to come. A gift from God, Emanuel "God with Us!"
As we go about our family gatherings, last minute shopping, church services and parties, remember that the gift that we celebrate on December 25th is with us today and he is Wonderful, our Counselor, the mighty God, everlasting Father, he is the Prince of Peace. He loves us more than we can possibly ever hope to comprehend and he wants to have a relationship with us.
We are the hope for a lost world. God through the gift of his Son can now use us, his Church, to be his hands feet taking the gospel to those who do not yet know Him. We are the hope for peace on earth and goodwill toward men. We must now use the power he has given us to make Christmas alive on planet Earth.
When you get up tomorrow, to unwrap presents and enjoy the good food and friends, remember the gift from heaven who for just a brief time became one of us because he loves us and wanted us to be free of the chains called sin and death that bind us. And when the celebration is over, his gift will continue to be passed on through our lives to those yet to know his mercy.
My prayer. Father, thank you for entrusting us with your gift, a gift that we must pass along through our obedience to your will. Make us our hands and feet Father so that there truly can be Peace on Earth in 2009. In Jesus mighty name I pray, Amen.
More than 700 years before he was born, the prophet Isaiah wrote these words. The prophecy would be fulfilled in an obscure town called Bethlehem. A child would be born of a virgin and he would change the world forever for generations to come. A gift from God, Emanuel "God with Us!"
As we go about our family gatherings, last minute shopping, church services and parties, remember that the gift that we celebrate on December 25th is with us today and he is Wonderful, our Counselor, the mighty God, everlasting Father, he is the Prince of Peace. He loves us more than we can possibly ever hope to comprehend and he wants to have a relationship with us.
We are the hope for a lost world. God through the gift of his Son can now use us, his Church, to be his hands feet taking the gospel to those who do not yet know Him. We are the hope for peace on earth and goodwill toward men. We must now use the power he has given us to make Christmas alive on planet Earth.
When you get up tomorrow, to unwrap presents and enjoy the good food and friends, remember the gift from heaven who for just a brief time became one of us because he loves us and wanted us to be free of the chains called sin and death that bind us. And when the celebration is over, his gift will continue to be passed on through our lives to those yet to know his mercy.
My prayer. Father, thank you for entrusting us with your gift, a gift that we must pass along through our obedience to your will. Make us our hands and feet Father so that there truly can be Peace on Earth in 2009. In Jesus mighty name I pray, Amen.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Christ in Us the Hope of Glory
“His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Eph 3:10-11
I love a good mystery. I remember reading Agathe Christie and watching the adventures of Hercule Poirot on public television when I was younger. I always tried to solve the mystery before the end of the book or movie.
As I read Paul’s letter to the Ephesians I was surprised to discover that Paul had the honor of revealing a mystery that had been kept secret by God throughout the thousands of years documented in the Old Testament and even through the life of Jesus Christ. “This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.” Eph 3:6. Paul says to the Colossians, “God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
Wow! Is Paul really saying that God is putting the “hope of glory” in us? God trusts you and me to be His hope for planet earth? I find this concept of redemption amazing. God is so confident that he would use the power of His only son’s death on the cross and our belief in the shed blood of Christ, to empower us to change the world for God’s kingdom. Amazing!
We truly cannot understand His ways, the God of the universe comes to the earth as a little baby. The child grows into a young man who wanders the countryside and employs twelve ordinary unschooled men to learn from him and take over his ministry. Then he allows himself to be crucified by a jealous religious and political establishment. He rises from the dead but almost secretly reveals himself to only a few and then ascends into the heavens. He turns the story of redemption over to the Gentile world and uses a Jewish man who is brilliantly schooled in the Old Testament (Paul) to begin growing a body of believers that would be empowered by a Holy Spirit, to tell the world about the good news of Jesus Christ.
What a twist! Gentiles doing what the Jews would not do. Yet the Father still plans to return for the Jews sending his Son yet again back to earth, "when the fullness has of the Gentiles has come in." Romans 11:12 When, is still a mystery yet God is waiting on us through the power of Christ in us to help Him fulfill that prophecy. It is so exciting serving a God who has that much trust in his people!
My prayer. Father, thank you for your trust in me to help carry out your plan of redemption on planet earth. Increase Christ in me as I decrease myself in me. Use me today and everyday for your will to be accomplished in my sphere of influence. I pray that the saints around the world be surrounded by your angels and strengthened in their time of persecution. May your glory always be in front of us as we serve you until the "fullness of the Gentiles" has come in! In Jesus name, Amen!
I love a good mystery. I remember reading Agathe Christie and watching the adventures of Hercule Poirot on public television when I was younger. I always tried to solve the mystery before the end of the book or movie.
As I read Paul’s letter to the Ephesians I was surprised to discover that Paul had the honor of revealing a mystery that had been kept secret by God throughout the thousands of years documented in the Old Testament and even through the life of Jesus Christ. “This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.” Eph 3:6. Paul says to the Colossians, “God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
Wow! Is Paul really saying that God is putting the “hope of glory” in us? God trusts you and me to be His hope for planet earth? I find this concept of redemption amazing. God is so confident that he would use the power of His only son’s death on the cross and our belief in the shed blood of Christ, to empower us to change the world for God’s kingdom. Amazing!
We truly cannot understand His ways, the God of the universe comes to the earth as a little baby. The child grows into a young man who wanders the countryside and employs twelve ordinary unschooled men to learn from him and take over his ministry. Then he allows himself to be crucified by a jealous religious and political establishment. He rises from the dead but almost secretly reveals himself to only a few and then ascends into the heavens. He turns the story of redemption over to the Gentile world and uses a Jewish man who is brilliantly schooled in the Old Testament (Paul) to begin growing a body of believers that would be empowered by a Holy Spirit, to tell the world about the good news of Jesus Christ.
What a twist! Gentiles doing what the Jews would not do. Yet the Father still plans to return for the Jews sending his Son yet again back to earth, "when the fullness has of the Gentiles has come in." Romans 11:12 When, is still a mystery yet God is waiting on us through the power of Christ in us to help Him fulfill that prophecy. It is so exciting serving a God who has that much trust in his people!
My prayer. Father, thank you for your trust in me to help carry out your plan of redemption on planet earth. Increase Christ in me as I decrease myself in me. Use me today and everyday for your will to be accomplished in my sphere of influence. I pray that the saints around the world be surrounded by your angels and strengthened in their time of persecution. May your glory always be in front of us as we serve you until the "fullness of the Gentiles" has come in! In Jesus name, Amen!
Friday, December 19, 2008
God and Politics
"And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." (John 8:11)
There has been much chatter on the Internet about the "new breed" of Evangelicals who are bucking the "so called" right wing conservative Christians. I see this noise as being another political move to capture more voters to bolster left leaning ideals. Maybe so but in the end , God is in control and the book writers and MSNBC pundits are just pumping up their wallets and egos as they wax greatly on the six o'clock news.
Whatever, the position of these folks on gay marriage or abortion, the Word is clear on the definition of sin whether it is abortion, homosexuality, or any other political football that seems to be popular. He is aware of our obligations as Christians to pray for and come under the authority of our elected leaders even if we disagree with their rational for using military force or appeasing terrorists.
The Church is under the authority of God and we as believers are obligated to have a relationship with Him and our fellow believers and help each other in our walk with God. We are to become more Christ-like as we draw nearer to God. At the end of our lives, God will not judge us on our political positions or even how much we gave to the poor or spoke out against the death penalty. He will judge whether or not we received the free gift of salvation bought through His Son's shed blood on the cross.
Conservative Christians like Dr. Dobson and others who are opposed to gay marriage and abortion are exercising their free speech and making moral arguments that are aligned with the truth of God's word. So called evangelicals or conservative Christians who truly walk daily with the King do not hate homosexuals or abortion practitioners, they hate the sin of homosexuality and abortion. I believe these conservative Christians, like me, love these sinners; and, like Jesus did with the woman caught in adultery in John 8:1-11, neither condemn the sinner nor condone the sin. Rather we all pray that those who are trapped in these sins will confess their sins to God and repent (turn away) from the sinful behavior and seek a relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ.
My Prayer. Father, again we find ourselves torn by politics and power rather than joined by the love that you taught us to give to one another. I pray in earnest Father for those trapped in the sin of homosexuality, and trapped by the guilt of abortion. Father I ask that you would empower us as believers to come together in agreement on the sinfulness of homosexuality and abortion and to reach out in love to our brothers and sisters in Christ so that we may take these sinners by the hand and lead them to the foot of the cross. May we do this Lord with a spirit of love and not condemnation. Help us Lord to channel our energies toward unification as the body of Christ rather than tear ourselves apart that we fall prey to the Enemy. Thank you Lord for your Word. May it ring true to all believers this Christmas season so that we may be more Christlike in 2009. I pray in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen!
There has been much chatter on the Internet about the "new breed" of Evangelicals who are bucking the "so called" right wing conservative Christians. I see this noise as being another political move to capture more voters to bolster left leaning ideals. Maybe so but in the end , God is in control and the book writers and MSNBC pundits are just pumping up their wallets and egos as they wax greatly on the six o'clock news.
Whatever, the position of these folks on gay marriage or abortion, the Word is clear on the definition of sin whether it is abortion, homosexuality, or any other political football that seems to be popular. He is aware of our obligations as Christians to pray for and come under the authority of our elected leaders even if we disagree with their rational for using military force or appeasing terrorists.
The Church is under the authority of God and we as believers are obligated to have a relationship with Him and our fellow believers and help each other in our walk with God. We are to become more Christ-like as we draw nearer to God. At the end of our lives, God will not judge us on our political positions or even how much we gave to the poor or spoke out against the death penalty. He will judge whether or not we received the free gift of salvation bought through His Son's shed blood on the cross.
Conservative Christians like Dr. Dobson and others who are opposed to gay marriage and abortion are exercising their free speech and making moral arguments that are aligned with the truth of God's word. So called evangelicals or conservative Christians who truly walk daily with the King do not hate homosexuals or abortion practitioners, they hate the sin of homosexuality and abortion. I believe these conservative Christians, like me, love these sinners; and, like Jesus did with the woman caught in adultery in John 8:1-11, neither condemn the sinner nor condone the sin. Rather we all pray that those who are trapped in these sins will confess their sins to God and repent (turn away) from the sinful behavior and seek a relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ.
My Prayer. Father, again we find ourselves torn by politics and power rather than joined by the love that you taught us to give to one another. I pray in earnest Father for those trapped in the sin of homosexuality, and trapped by the guilt of abortion. Father I ask that you would empower us as believers to come together in agreement on the sinfulness of homosexuality and abortion and to reach out in love to our brothers and sisters in Christ so that we may take these sinners by the hand and lead them to the foot of the cross. May we do this Lord with a spirit of love and not condemnation. Help us Lord to channel our energies toward unification as the body of Christ rather than tear ourselves apart that we fall prey to the Enemy. Thank you Lord for your Word. May it ring true to all believers this Christmas season so that we may be more Christlike in 2009. I pray in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
A Sign Unto You
"And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." Luke 2:12
The angel spoke these famous words to the shepherds in the fields on the eve of Jesus birth. The words fulfilled a prophecy spoken by Isaiah, "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. " They however echoed something else which is found in the story that Isaiah is telling in Chapter 7.
The kings of Israel and Syria in the days of Ahaz king of Judah aligned with one another to defeat the king of Judah. "the LORD unto Isaiah, Go forth now to meet Ahaz,....(tell him) fear not, neither be fainthearted for...(the two kings shall not be successful against you) For the head of Syria is Damascus, and the head of Damascus is Rezin; and within threescore and five years shall Ephraim be broken, that it be not a people.
And the head of Ephraim is Samaria, and the head of Samaria is Remaliah's son. If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established." The Lord then went onto say to Ahaz, "Ask thee a sign of the LORD thy God; ask it either in the depth, or in the height above."
God wanted Ahaz to simply ask him for a sign, "But Ahaz said, I will not ask, neither will I tempt the LORD." God, I believe put off by Ahaz' lack of faith said watch this, I will go beyond this situation and reveal to you a real miracle (my words). He said, "the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good. For before the child shall know to refuse the evil, and choose the good, the land that thou abhorrest shall be forsaken of both her kings." (Is 7:3-20)
God told us in this story that he was bigger than Ahaz's minor problem and that what he would give the world was a Savior and that he would rid the land of (Israel's)two kings and all further evil would be trampled under his feet. He would establish himself King of the Jews and never again woud their be kings of Judah or Israel!
When will we learn that God is bigger than all of our problems? He is in control and he will help us if we will only ask him in faith!
My prayer. Father, thank you for revealing yourself to us through your word. I pray that my trust in You would increase as I walk closer to you. Thank you for the gift of your Son and the gift of salvation that we can pass to others as members of His body. I pray this Christmas season be a time of renewal and revival. I pray that Christians around the world will come to know the power that you have given each one of them through the power of the Holy Spirit. Help us Lord to be ambassadors of Christ through our lives. Use us today Lord to be your hands and feet. In Jesus name I pray, Amen
The angel spoke these famous words to the shepherds in the fields on the eve of Jesus birth. The words fulfilled a prophecy spoken by Isaiah, "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. " They however echoed something else which is found in the story that Isaiah is telling in Chapter 7.
The kings of Israel and Syria in the days of Ahaz king of Judah aligned with one another to defeat the king of Judah. "the LORD unto Isaiah, Go forth now to meet Ahaz,....(tell him) fear not, neither be fainthearted for...(the two kings shall not be successful against you) For the head of Syria is Damascus, and the head of Damascus is Rezin; and within threescore and five years shall Ephraim be broken, that it be not a people.
And the head of Ephraim is Samaria, and the head of Samaria is Remaliah's son. If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established." The Lord then went onto say to Ahaz, "Ask thee a sign of the LORD thy God; ask it either in the depth, or in the height above."
God wanted Ahaz to simply ask him for a sign, "But Ahaz said, I will not ask, neither will I tempt the LORD." God, I believe put off by Ahaz' lack of faith said watch this, I will go beyond this situation and reveal to you a real miracle (my words). He said, "the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good. For before the child shall know to refuse the evil, and choose the good, the land that thou abhorrest shall be forsaken of both her kings." (Is 7:3-20)
God told us in this story that he was bigger than Ahaz's minor problem and that what he would give the world was a Savior and that he would rid the land of (Israel's)two kings and all further evil would be trampled under his feet. He would establish himself King of the Jews and never again woud their be kings of Judah or Israel!
When will we learn that God is bigger than all of our problems? He is in control and he will help us if we will only ask him in faith!
My prayer. Father, thank you for revealing yourself to us through your word. I pray that my trust in You would increase as I walk closer to you. Thank you for the gift of your Son and the gift of salvation that we can pass to others as members of His body. I pray this Christmas season be a time of renewal and revival. I pray that Christians around the world will come to know the power that you have given each one of them through the power of the Holy Spirit. Help us Lord to be ambassadors of Christ through our lives. Use us today Lord to be your hands and feet. In Jesus name I pray, Amen
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Too Wonderful to Comprehend
But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19, 51
Luke Chapter 2 the story of the birth of Christ is so rich, I never get tired of reading it. The story is full of drama and joy, love and hope, it is worth reading over and over anytime during the year especially if you want to renew your faith and invigorate your walk with the Lord.
Mary, besides the baby Jesus, takes center stage in this drama which is the culmination of the promises of God and the redemption of the world which was so wonderfully foreshadowed in the Old Testament. I love this verse which was used twice in Chapter 2 to explain how overwhelming the events had become for Mary that she could only take them in and ponder them in her heart.
After all, she ( a virgin) had been favored by the Creator of the universe to carry his one and only begotten son through conception by the Holy Spirit. The, to make the entire story even more difficult to comprehend, she is told that this baby she would give birth to was the promised Messiah that would be King of the Jews and would be the vessel whereby God would redeem the world from the fall of Adam and Eve. As the chapter unfolds Mary is experiencing one unfathomable event after another and I am certain she is virtually in shock regarding the enormity of the situation.
When I read this verse first at the beginning of the Chapter and then again at the end, I can picture Mary just in a daze, overwhelmed and overjoyed that she would be honored in such a way by God, yet confused and bewildered that she had been chosen for the most important assignment in eternity! She was speechless and could only "ponder (everything) in her heart."
God is so amazing how he takes the most unexpected paths to achieve the greatest miracles! Praise Him!
My prayer. Father, I pray that someday I may be considered a useful vessel for you to bless someone in my sphere of influence. Lord, continue to mold me in your hands as the potter does with the clay. Make me an instrument of your plan of salvation in a world that is desperate to receive your Christmas gift. Use me Lord according to the ability you have given me, In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
Luke Chapter 2 the story of the birth of Christ is so rich, I never get tired of reading it. The story is full of drama and joy, love and hope, it is worth reading over and over anytime during the year especially if you want to renew your faith and invigorate your walk with the Lord.
Mary, besides the baby Jesus, takes center stage in this drama which is the culmination of the promises of God and the redemption of the world which was so wonderfully foreshadowed in the Old Testament. I love this verse which was used twice in Chapter 2 to explain how overwhelming the events had become for Mary that she could only take them in and ponder them in her heart.
After all, she ( a virgin) had been favored by the Creator of the universe to carry his one and only begotten son through conception by the Holy Spirit. The, to make the entire story even more difficult to comprehend, she is told that this baby she would give birth to was the promised Messiah that would be King of the Jews and would be the vessel whereby God would redeem the world from the fall of Adam and Eve. As the chapter unfolds Mary is experiencing one unfathomable event after another and I am certain she is virtually in shock regarding the enormity of the situation.
When I read this verse first at the beginning of the Chapter and then again at the end, I can picture Mary just in a daze, overwhelmed and overjoyed that she would be honored in such a way by God, yet confused and bewildered that she had been chosen for the most important assignment in eternity! She was speechless and could only "ponder (everything) in her heart."
God is so amazing how he takes the most unexpected paths to achieve the greatest miracles! Praise Him!
My prayer. Father, I pray that someday I may be considered a useful vessel for you to bless someone in my sphere of influence. Lord, continue to mold me in your hands as the potter does with the clay. Make me an instrument of your plan of salvation in a world that is desperate to receive your Christmas gift. Use me Lord according to the ability you have given me, In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Out of Egypt I Called my Son!
When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son." Matthew 2:13-15
After the birth of Jesus and his subsequent return to Nazareth, Magi from the east (most-likely Babylon) approached King Herod in Jerusalem to seek where they could find the Christ. They came bearing gifts and to worship the one that had been prophesied in the scriptures and for whom they referred, king of the Jews. They were directed to Bethlehem by Herod’s advisers and teachers of the law and off they went. Secretly Herod plotted to kill the child as he was deeply concerned about losing his throne.
Again, Divine providence was upon Joseph and Mary and the young boy Jesus when an angel told them to flee to the desert until the danger had passed. Shortly afterwards around, 4 AD, Herod died and the threat to the life of Jesus was over, allowing the family to return to Nazareth.
As we read these writings about the life of Jesus at Christmas time, we are reminded of the obedience of Mary and Joseph and how much the hand of God was on this family and His only begotten Son. As I meditate on these scriptures, my heart fills with joy at how much God did to fulfill his promise of redemption.
When Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the garden, I believe he was very disappointed but not unforgiving. Josephus writes on the heels of the eating of the forbidden fruit,
“God said, ‘I had before determined about you both, how you might lead a happy life, without any affliction, and care, and vexation of soul; and that all things which might contribute to your enjoyment and pleasure should grow up by my providence, of their own accord, without your own labor and pains-taking; which state of labor and pains-taking would soon bring on old age, and death would not be at any remote distance: but now thou hast abused this my good-will, and hast disobeyed my commands.’”
God therefore, had to punish us. But he soon began his plan of redemption because he loved us so much.
Several thousand years later, God will order Joseph and his family to the desert for safety. The key ingredient, without the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, is that both Joseph and Mary were obedient, doing exactly what they were told when they were asked. This precise and unquestioning trust in the Lord’s requirements are a lesson to all of us that no matter the request from God, if we are to see his plans fulfilled in our lives, we must obey completely and immediately!
My prayer. Father, thank you for your word and the precision of your blessings to those who follow it without question. Lord, continue to teach me how to give you my complete trust, both in the good things and in the uncomfortable situations. I want to have the obedience of a Joseph. Help me start this Christmas so that I may be a better servant to you. In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
After the birth of Jesus and his subsequent return to Nazareth, Magi from the east (most-likely Babylon) approached King Herod in Jerusalem to seek where they could find the Christ. They came bearing gifts and to worship the one that had been prophesied in the scriptures and for whom they referred, king of the Jews. They were directed to Bethlehem by Herod’s advisers and teachers of the law and off they went. Secretly Herod plotted to kill the child as he was deeply concerned about losing his throne.
Again, Divine providence was upon Joseph and Mary and the young boy Jesus when an angel told them to flee to the desert until the danger had passed. Shortly afterwards around, 4 AD, Herod died and the threat to the life of Jesus was over, allowing the family to return to Nazareth.
As we read these writings about the life of Jesus at Christmas time, we are reminded of the obedience of Mary and Joseph and how much the hand of God was on this family and His only begotten Son. As I meditate on these scriptures, my heart fills with joy at how much God did to fulfill his promise of redemption.
When Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the garden, I believe he was very disappointed but not unforgiving. Josephus writes on the heels of the eating of the forbidden fruit,
“God said, ‘I had before determined about you both, how you might lead a happy life, without any affliction, and care, and vexation of soul; and that all things which might contribute to your enjoyment and pleasure should grow up by my providence, of their own accord, without your own labor and pains-taking; which state of labor and pains-taking would soon bring on old age, and death would not be at any remote distance: but now thou hast abused this my good-will, and hast disobeyed my commands.’”
God therefore, had to punish us. But he soon began his plan of redemption because he loved us so much.
Several thousand years later, God will order Joseph and his family to the desert for safety. The key ingredient, without the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, is that both Joseph and Mary were obedient, doing exactly what they were told when they were asked. This precise and unquestioning trust in the Lord’s requirements are a lesson to all of us that no matter the request from God, if we are to see his plans fulfilled in our lives, we must obey completely and immediately!
My prayer. Father, thank you for your word and the precision of your blessings to those who follow it without question. Lord, continue to teach me how to give you my complete trust, both in the good things and in the uncomfortable situations. I want to have the obedience of a Joseph. Help me start this Christmas so that I may be a better servant to you. In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Jesus Will Reveal Hearts
"This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." Luke 2:34-35
Simeon, whom Luke calls “righteous and devout,” spoke these words over the infant Jesus just days after he was born and on the occasion of his presentation at the temple eight days after his birth. The Holy Spirit had already revealed to Simeon that this was the Lord Christ who would be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.”
When I considered this word of God’s, I was astonished at how powerful this prophesy was and how it continues to be fulfilled. Jesus truly is “a sign that (is) spoken against.” Atheists and the "politically correct" find it difficult to withhold comment or reaction at the very mention of His name. Especially during the Christmas season, as the battle wages for displays that honor the name of Christ, the mere utterance of his name always evokes a “heart” reaction positively or negatively.
Whether you are a Christian or a pagan, Jew or Atheist, it is impossible to be neutral about Jesus!
My prayer. Father, I am continually amazed when I contemplate your greatness and mercy. I praise you for the gift that you gave me and all of mankind in your Son Jesus. Empower me Lord to see what you see when hearts are revealed at the mention of the “Name above all names.” Use me Lord to minister to those who may not yet understand the magnitude of the gift that you have given us through your Son. Help me also to heal the brokenness in my won soul. Make my life a testimony unto you Father. And as I continue to reflect upon the wonderful Christmas present you gave the world, continue to open the eyes of my heart even wider and show me the damage yet to be repaired. I thank you for your mercy and I pray in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
Simeon, whom Luke calls “righteous and devout,” spoke these words over the infant Jesus just days after he was born and on the occasion of his presentation at the temple eight days after his birth. The Holy Spirit had already revealed to Simeon that this was the Lord Christ who would be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.”
When I considered this word of God’s, I was astonished at how powerful this prophesy was and how it continues to be fulfilled. Jesus truly is “a sign that (is) spoken against.” Atheists and the "politically correct" find it difficult to withhold comment or reaction at the very mention of His name. Especially during the Christmas season, as the battle wages for displays that honor the name of Christ, the mere utterance of his name always evokes a “heart” reaction positively or negatively.
Whether you are a Christian or a pagan, Jew or Atheist, it is impossible to be neutral about Jesus!
My prayer. Father, I am continually amazed when I contemplate your greatness and mercy. I praise you for the gift that you gave me and all of mankind in your Son Jesus. Empower me Lord to see what you see when hearts are revealed at the mention of the “Name above all names.” Use me Lord to minister to those who may not yet understand the magnitude of the gift that you have given us through your Son. Help me also to heal the brokenness in my won soul. Make my life a testimony unto you Father. And as I continue to reflect upon the wonderful Christmas present you gave the world, continue to open the eyes of my heart even wider and show me the damage yet to be repaired. I thank you for your mercy and I pray in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
May it be to me as You have said!
I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her. (Luke 1:38)
Praise God that Mary was obedient to His request that she, yet a virgin, would bear the Son of God in her womb! As I contemplate the birth of our Savior this Christmas season, I am amazed at just how obedient she was and what a personal risk she would undertake for the Lord.
I wonder if I could take such a step of faith. I know in my own walk I struggle to give God the easiest things, I can’t imagine myself trusting Him with the dedication of Mary. Why do we find it so difficult to trust, in the safety of our cushy lives?
The word trust “peitho” in the Greek language means “to rely upon, to have confidence in or to believe in.” Trust leaves us with four options in which we can place our confidence or on which we can believe, material objects, other people, ourselves, and, if we are believers, God. Most often trust in the first two leads to disappointment and sometimes a great deal of pain. This leaves only to trust in our own ability or God’s. Herein lies our dilemma, it cannot be both, so we must choose to trust completely in ourselves or in our Creator.
Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 62:8 confirms, “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” As believers, we really have but one choice and that is to trust our Father. He created us, to love and be in relationship with us, and He gave his most prized possession, His Son, to die a horrible death for the redemption of our sins. How could we question his love and his ability to accomplish the things we give to him in prayer? Yet we do.
I believe the root of our inability to fully trust God lies in our separation from Him resulting from “original sin.” Even though we are saved through the blood of Jesus, the remnant of the shame of original sin still haunts us. We continue to allow ourselves to move back toward self-reliance and away from God-reliance. Self-discovery and our belief that we control our own destiny, hold us back from fully giving ourselves over to God’s will for our lives.
We must continually renew our minds by constantly pulling away from the world order and remain in God’s perfect will for our lives (Romans 12:2). It is only then that we can say and live what Mary said, “I am the Lords servant, may it be to me as you said.”
My prayer. Forgive me Lord for my lack of trust in You, the only one who truly has my best interests at heart. I love you Father and know that you alone know Your perfect will for my life. Let my life be of complete and useful service to you, help me to step out on the water and trust that you will lead me across the surface in perfect agreement with your will and for the advancement of your Kingdom. I pray in earnest and with humble repentance for ever doubting your trustworthiness. In Jesus name! Amen
Praise God that Mary was obedient to His request that she, yet a virgin, would bear the Son of God in her womb! As I contemplate the birth of our Savior this Christmas season, I am amazed at just how obedient she was and what a personal risk she would undertake for the Lord.
I wonder if I could take such a step of faith. I know in my own walk I struggle to give God the easiest things, I can’t imagine myself trusting Him with the dedication of Mary. Why do we find it so difficult to trust, in the safety of our cushy lives?
The word trust “peitho” in the Greek language means “to rely upon, to have confidence in or to believe in.” Trust leaves us with four options in which we can place our confidence or on which we can believe, material objects, other people, ourselves, and, if we are believers, God. Most often trust in the first two leads to disappointment and sometimes a great deal of pain. This leaves only to trust in our own ability or God’s. Herein lies our dilemma, it cannot be both, so we must choose to trust completely in ourselves or in our Creator.
Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 62:8 confirms, “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” As believers, we really have but one choice and that is to trust our Father. He created us, to love and be in relationship with us, and He gave his most prized possession, His Son, to die a horrible death for the redemption of our sins. How could we question his love and his ability to accomplish the things we give to him in prayer? Yet we do.
I believe the root of our inability to fully trust God lies in our separation from Him resulting from “original sin.” Even though we are saved through the blood of Jesus, the remnant of the shame of original sin still haunts us. We continue to allow ourselves to move back toward self-reliance and away from God-reliance. Self-discovery and our belief that we control our own destiny, hold us back from fully giving ourselves over to God’s will for our lives.
We must continually renew our minds by constantly pulling away from the world order and remain in God’s perfect will for our lives (Romans 12:2). It is only then that we can say and live what Mary said, “I am the Lords servant, may it be to me as you said.”
My prayer. Forgive me Lord for my lack of trust in You, the only one who truly has my best interests at heart. I love you Father and know that you alone know Your perfect will for my life. Let my life be of complete and useful service to you, help me to step out on the water and trust that you will lead me across the surface in perfect agreement with your will and for the advancement of your Kingdom. I pray in earnest and with humble repentance for ever doubting your trustworthiness. In Jesus name! Amen
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Judge Not Lest Ye Be Judged
"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." Mat. 7:1-5
This passage of scripture is often used by those who want to call Christians hypocrites and more by those who are opposed to any kind of morale standard. The fact of the matter is that this teaching was by Jesus directly to his closest disciples during the famous Sermon on the Mount. In it Jesus went beyond what the teachings and law of the Old Testament, telling them more than their outward actions but the evil in their own hearts would dictate how
they would be judged by God.
Judgement was never something to be avoided when it came to discerning right from wrong in the eyes of God, rather it was the judgement of one believer of another about which Jesus cautioned his followers. Be careful, he warned, of criticizing another for the purposes of personal superiority. Rather Jesus tells us to make sure that our motives are for building up one another not tearing them down.
Judging right from wrong using an absolute vice relative approach to morality is exactly what God wants us to do. We are to look to the saving power of the blood of Jesus Christ and the grace of God the Father as our hope for eternal life, rather than our ability to keep all the law both outwardly and in our hearts. However, we must be "judgemental" when it comes to determining our life choices. In fact the very sermon that tells us to be careful how we are to warn each other of the dangers of sin, is the very place we all should refer to gain knowledge of what is right or wrong in the eyes of God.
My prayer. Father, thank you that you would send your Son to earth to give us a picture of what you are really like and how much you love us. I pray father that we as believers can become more Christlike in the conduct of our lives so that others are drawn to you not driven away by hypocrisy and elitism. Help us Lord in our weakness and teach us the proper way to serve you and be good stewards of the truth that you have given us in your Word. In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." Mat. 7:1-5
This passage of scripture is often used by those who want to call Christians hypocrites and more by those who are opposed to any kind of morale standard. The fact of the matter is that this teaching was by Jesus directly to his closest disciples during the famous Sermon on the Mount. In it Jesus went beyond what the teachings and law of the Old Testament, telling them more than their outward actions but the evil in their own hearts would dictate how
they would be judged by God.
Judgement was never something to be avoided when it came to discerning right from wrong in the eyes of God, rather it was the judgement of one believer of another about which Jesus cautioned his followers. Be careful, he warned, of criticizing another for the purposes of personal superiority. Rather Jesus tells us to make sure that our motives are for building up one another not tearing them down.
Judging right from wrong using an absolute vice relative approach to morality is exactly what God wants us to do. We are to look to the saving power of the blood of Jesus Christ and the grace of God the Father as our hope for eternal life, rather than our ability to keep all the law both outwardly and in our hearts. However, we must be "judgemental" when it comes to determining our life choices. In fact the very sermon that tells us to be careful how we are to warn each other of the dangers of sin, is the very place we all should refer to gain knowledge of what is right or wrong in the eyes of God.
My prayer. Father, thank you that you would send your Son to earth to give us a picture of what you are really like and how much you love us. I pray father that we as believers can become more Christlike in the conduct of our lives so that others are drawn to you not driven away by hypocrisy and elitism. Help us Lord in our weakness and teach us the proper way to serve you and be good stewards of the truth that you have given us in your Word. In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
We Can't Ignore God Any More
"Therefore since we are God's offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by man's design and skill. In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead." Acts 17:29-31
Paul, on his second mission to the Gentiles said these words to the people of Athens who worshiped many idols and images of their gods. Luke even records an altar with an inscription: "To an unknown god"! The people of Athens, not unlike us today worshipped almost anything.
I like how the King James version of the bible translates, "And the times of this ignorance God winked at..." It is almost as if the Holy Spirit is saying, the kidding around is over and now God wants you full attention because through the death of his son on the cross, he has given the world its last chance to recognize that he is the one true God.
He has "set a day," when he will take his bride away with him and he will "judge the world with justice." Paul was quite clear about what he heard God saying to him.
If we roll the clock ahead 2000 years and consider this teaching in the context of today's culture, the urgency of this word rings true. Not much has changed really except maybe the names of the gods being worshipped. Today its the images and idols of money, entertainment, and self fulfillment that have replaced the Greek gods, however, the urgency to give up these gods seems unchanged as our society worships any and everything but God.
God has stated his case and the clock is ticking. The day of his return is much closer now than in Paul's time, don't miss your last chance to join God's family, before its too late.
My prayer. Father, I humbly repent for the times I have wasted worshipping the idols and images of this world. Forgive me Lord for my lack of faith and trust in the love that you have shown through your son Jesus Christ. It is my prayer that in these last days that all mankind repent and come to know you as Lord and Savior. Thank you for your eternal grace and love for your creation. Bring your Kingdom to earth through the love that you have commanded us to show to one another. I pray these things in the name above all names, my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, Amen!
Paul, on his second mission to the Gentiles said these words to the people of Athens who worshiped many idols and images of their gods. Luke even records an altar with an inscription: "To an unknown god"! The people of Athens, not unlike us today worshipped almost anything.
I like how the King James version of the bible translates, "And the times of this ignorance God winked at..." It is almost as if the Holy Spirit is saying, the kidding around is over and now God wants you full attention because through the death of his son on the cross, he has given the world its last chance to recognize that he is the one true God.
He has "set a day," when he will take his bride away with him and he will "judge the world with justice." Paul was quite clear about what he heard God saying to him.
If we roll the clock ahead 2000 years and consider this teaching in the context of today's culture, the urgency of this word rings true. Not much has changed really except maybe the names of the gods being worshipped. Today its the images and idols of money, entertainment, and self fulfillment that have replaced the Greek gods, however, the urgency to give up these gods seems unchanged as our society worships any and everything but God.
God has stated his case and the clock is ticking. The day of his return is much closer now than in Paul's time, don't miss your last chance to join God's family, before its too late.
My prayer. Father, I humbly repent for the times I have wasted worshipping the idols and images of this world. Forgive me Lord for my lack of faith and trust in the love that you have shown through your son Jesus Christ. It is my prayer that in these last days that all mankind repent and come to know you as Lord and Savior. Thank you for your eternal grace and love for your creation. Bring your Kingdom to earth through the love that you have commanded us to show to one another. I pray these things in the name above all names, my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, Amen!
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