Acts 7:57-58a
At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him.
Stephen had just been brought before the Sanhedrin to defend charges of his blasphemy against Moses and God. He recounted the history they knew so well from Abraham forward. He spoke with the power of the Holy Spirit about their rejection of Jesus as well as their fathers' rejection of Moses and the other prophets. He called them out on not following God. So what did they do? The covered their ears, got angry and killed Stephen.
When God speaks to me through His word and others what is my response? When I am shown that I am not living properly or when I've taken what I know and twist it to fit my own agenda do I respond in anger like the Sanhedrin? I like to think I'm not covering my ears. But I've always got to check myself so I am open to being corrected.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Exodus 25-27; Acts 6
Exodus 25:8
And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.
Before the fall, Adam walked in the garden with God. But the barrier of sin made that kind of fellowship between Holy God and sinful man no longer possible. But God still sought to dwell among His people. And they painstakingly followed the details for how to construct and furnish this dwelling right down to the kind of thread to be used.
On this side of the cross God's dwelling is within His people. We are reconnected to Him on a personal level once again and can experience a taste of the relationship where He walks with us. But He is no less holy than He was in this Exodus passage I read. And I'm sure today His dwelling place needs to be pure and constructed to His exacting standards just as it was required for Israel.
And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.
Before the fall, Adam walked in the garden with God. But the barrier of sin made that kind of fellowship between Holy God and sinful man no longer possible. But God still sought to dwell among His people. And they painstakingly followed the details for how to construct and furnish this dwelling right down to the kind of thread to be used.
On this side of the cross God's dwelling is within His people. We are reconnected to Him on a personal level once again and can experience a taste of the relationship where He walks with us. But He is no less holy than He was in this Exodus passage I read. And I'm sure today His dwelling place needs to be pure and constructed to His exacting standards just as it was required for Israel.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Edoxus 23-24; Psalm 14; Acts 5
Acts 5:1-11
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.”
Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him.
Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?”
She said, “Yes, for so much.”
Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.
Sin, yes even a "little" lie, demands a very high price. Especially when one tries to pull a fast one on God. And this didn't happen in the Old Testament. The Holy Spirit had come and they were supposed to be "living under grace" right? What would my church look like if something like this happened? Just a thought.
How do I balance my fear and awe of The Holy God with the Abba Father who has adpoted me into His family? I don't want to be disrespectfully caviler or casual. Yet, like a little kid, I want to feel the freedom and security of figuratively crawling up on my daddy's lap crying for Him to help clean me up after I've been out playing in the mud.
I know there have been times when I've tried to run from or hide things from God. And like many, I've made committment to God and failed to keep them. Why didn't I face the same fate as Ananias and Sapphira? I deserve to be struck down just as much as they were. I so want to be able to say, "Lord, I am all Yours." Little by little I think I'm getting closer. But I keep finding more of me that I've held back.
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.”
Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him.
Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?”
She said, “Yes, for so much.”
Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.
Sin, yes even a "little" lie, demands a very high price. Especially when one tries to pull a fast one on God. And this didn't happen in the Old Testament. The Holy Spirit had come and they were supposed to be "living under grace" right? What would my church look like if something like this happened? Just a thought.
How do I balance my fear and awe of The Holy God with the Abba Father who has adpoted me into His family? I don't want to be disrespectfully caviler or casual. Yet, like a little kid, I want to feel the freedom and security of figuratively crawling up on my daddy's lap crying for Him to help clean me up after I've been out playing in the mud.
I know there have been times when I've tried to run from or hide things from God. And like many, I've made committment to God and failed to keep them. Why didn't I face the same fate as Ananias and Sapphira? I deserve to be struck down just as much as they were. I so want to be able to say, "Lord, I am all Yours." Little by little I think I'm getting closer. But I keep finding more of me that I've held back.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Exodus 21-22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
Acts 4:13
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.
Training and education aren't bad things in and of themselves. But Peter and John's boldness wasn't a result of relying on their own resume. They had been with Jesus. God was able to use them because they were available and obedient. Am I bold enough to step out of my comfort zone? Am I limiting my usefulness to God when I remain where I know I can rely on my natural abilities and experience? I've tried several different areas of involvement and know many things I'm terrible at. I have so many weaknesses and shortcomings and failures. How do I deal with those? Do I ignore them or treat them as indications that those areas of ministry aren't for me? It's not that I'm worried about embarrassment or even failure for myself. I just don't want to fail God. Oh how I want to be filled with the Holy Spirit and have the boldness of Peter and John. I want people to marvel at how God can use anybody for any task He calls them to. And I want there to be no doubt that the only way it is possible is because I have spent time with Jesus.
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.
Training and education aren't bad things in and of themselves. But Peter and John's boldness wasn't a result of relying on their own resume. They had been with Jesus. God was able to use them because they were available and obedient. Am I bold enough to step out of my comfort zone? Am I limiting my usefulness to God when I remain where I know I can rely on my natural abilities and experience? I've tried several different areas of involvement and know many things I'm terrible at. I have so many weaknesses and shortcomings and failures. How do I deal with those? Do I ignore them or treat them as indications that those areas of ministry aren't for me? It's not that I'm worried about embarrassment or even failure for myself. I just don't want to fail God. Oh how I want to be filled with the Holy Spirit and have the boldness of Peter and John. I want people to marvel at how God can use anybody for any task He calls them to. And I want there to be no doubt that the only way it is possible is because I have spent time with Jesus.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Exodus 17-20; Acts 3
Exodus 19:5-6a
Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.
All the earth is God's. He can do what He wishes with all of it. But the one thing He won't do is force me to obey. I have to wilingly offer that myself. And when I become a person who obeys, who strived to keep the covenant I share with Him, I am a special treasure. I was special before, a unique creation He loved enough that He was willing to send Jesus to the cross on my behalf. But when I accept Jesus and and live in this covenant, I become complete and enter the circle of relationship with God for which we were all created. I am also enlisted into His priesthood and a representative of His holy nation. I become His hands, His feet, His mouthpiece.
Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.
All the earth is God's. He can do what He wishes with all of it. But the one thing He won't do is force me to obey. I have to wilingly offer that myself. And when I become a person who obeys, who strived to keep the covenant I share with Him, I am a special treasure. I was special before, a unique creation He loved enough that He was willing to send Jesus to the cross on my behalf. But when I accept Jesus and and live in this covenant, I become complete and enter the circle of relationship with God for which we were all created. I am also enlisted into His priesthood and a representative of His holy nation. I become His hands, His feet, His mouthpiece.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Exodus 14-16; Acts 2
Exodus 14:12-15
"Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, ‘Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness.”
And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The LORD will fight for you, and you shall keep silent.”
And the LORD said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward.
Here they were, trapped between the Egyptian army and the sea. Very limited in their options. The people had no confidence in God. Staying where they had been as slaves to the Egyptians was the easier way than following God. Moses knew God would deliver them. I don't know what he really expected to happen. But from him saying, "The LORD will fight for you," I get the impression that Moses figured God would just eliminate the army as the people stood there.
Yet God says, "go forward." Forward was into the sea. That's just crazy talk, isn't it? Then I keep reminding myself that I trust in the God of the impossible. But my trust in Him needs to be more than mere agreement that He can do the impossible if He chooses. I need to act on what I say I believe. When He says "Go forward." then I go. Sea or no sea. Israel did see the salvation of the Lord, just not in the way anybody would have imagined. But they didn't experience the salvation until they went forward through that impossible path.
"Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, ‘Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness.”
And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The LORD will fight for you, and you shall keep silent.”
And the LORD said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward.
Here they were, trapped between the Egyptian army and the sea. Very limited in their options. The people had no confidence in God. Staying where they had been as slaves to the Egyptians was the easier way than following God. Moses knew God would deliver them. I don't know what he really expected to happen. But from him saying, "The LORD will fight for you," I get the impression that Moses figured God would just eliminate the army as the people stood there.
Yet God says, "go forward." Forward was into the sea. That's just crazy talk, isn't it? Then I keep reminding myself that I trust in the God of the impossible. But my trust in Him needs to be more than mere agreement that He can do the impossible if He chooses. I need to act on what I say I believe. When He says "Go forward." then I go. Sea or no sea. Israel did see the salvation of the Lord, just not in the way anybody would have imagined. But they didn't experience the salvation until they went forward through that impossible path.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Exodus 12-13; Psalm 21: Acts 1
Psalm 21:6-7
Surely You have granted him eternal blessings and made him glad with the joy of Your presence. For the king trusts in the Lord; through the unfailing love of the Most High he will not be shaken.
I recently encountered a dear friend with whom I hadn't had any contact in a couple of decades. These past years, as well as their current circumstances are less than ideal, divorce, single parenthood, bankruptcy, recent loss of a parent. Yet this person said their faith has remained strong. It's one thing to say you have faith and joy when everything is going smoothly. But what about when it's not? How does this person still have any joy or trust in God's goodness?
They have learned the secret that really isn't a secret at all. It's written right there. God's love is unfailing and if my trust is in Him, nothing will shake me. The troubles, the trials I endure here on earth can't keep me from being glad because there are eternal blessing that can't be taken away no matter how bad circumstances are in this life. And I am never alone when I go through tough times. His presence is there, always.
Surely You have granted him eternal blessings and made him glad with the joy of Your presence. For the king trusts in the Lord; through the unfailing love of the Most High he will not be shaken.
I recently encountered a dear friend with whom I hadn't had any contact in a couple of decades. These past years, as well as their current circumstances are less than ideal, divorce, single parenthood, bankruptcy, recent loss of a parent. Yet this person said their faith has remained strong. It's one thing to say you have faith and joy when everything is going smoothly. But what about when it's not? How does this person still have any joy or trust in God's goodness?
They have learned the secret that really isn't a secret at all. It's written right there. God's love is unfailing and if my trust is in Him, nothing will shake me. The troubles, the trials I endure here on earth can't keep me from being glad because there are eternal blessing that can't be taken away no matter how bad circumstances are in this life. And I am never alone when I go through tough times. His presence is there, always.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Exodus 9-11; Luke 24
Luke 24:45-47
And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Then He said, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
I think I'm fairly smart and know a lot. But sometimes that gets in my way. I'm not saying I want to be dumb. But knowledge and understanding are two very different things. Too often I read scripture or hear sermons and I turn them into knowledge; facts, people, settings and the like. I make these new bits of knowledge conform to what I already "know" about things. It makes God out to be much smaller because all the facts I have fit nicely into my knowledge box.
I find it much harder to ask God for understanding. And He wants me to understand. He sent His Spirit to live within so I can understand. But not so I'll feel better about myself and give myself a pat on the back. The purpose of my understanding is so I can glorify Him by spreading His message. Following God isn't about winning a Bible trivia game. It's about gaining understanding and wisdom about who He is, what He wants from my life, and how can I glorify Him.
And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Then He said, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
I think I'm fairly smart and know a lot. But sometimes that gets in my way. I'm not saying I want to be dumb. But knowledge and understanding are two very different things. Too often I read scripture or hear sermons and I turn them into knowledge; facts, people, settings and the like. I make these new bits of knowledge conform to what I already "know" about things. It makes God out to be much smaller because all the facts I have fit nicely into my knowledge box.
I find it much harder to ask God for understanding. And He wants me to understand. He sent His Spirit to live within so I can understand. But not so I'll feel better about myself and give myself a pat on the back. The purpose of my understanding is so I can glorify Him by spreading His message. Following God isn't about winning a Bible trivia game. It's about gaining understanding and wisdom about who He is, what He wants from my life, and how can I glorify Him.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Exodus 6-8; Luke 23
Luke 23:8-11
Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing. And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.
Herod started off glad to see Jesus but ends up showing contempt and mocking Jesus. Just like many who sought to see Jesus, Herod had heard of the miracles. Was there anything wrong with hoping to see one? Wouldn't we all like to see a miracle? Is that a bad thing? I wonder what were the questions Herod asked. And why didn't Jesus even open His mouth to say something that might change Herod's heart? Herod must not have seen Jesus as a threat to his own power or position or even as somebody who could help enhance his influence. Otherwise he would have had some fear and second thoughts about treating Jesus the way he did.
Herod is like a lot of people. Jesus is right there in front of them. Sure He might be an interesting charachter. But if it seems He can't do anything for them, what good is He? They are listening to all the other voices around who want nothing more than to get rid of Jesus. And Jesus isn't going to force Himself on them. So rather than really looking at Jesus, they push Him away, they decide not to decide anything about Jesus. I choose Jesus.
Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing. And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.
Herod started off glad to see Jesus but ends up showing contempt and mocking Jesus. Just like many who sought to see Jesus, Herod had heard of the miracles. Was there anything wrong with hoping to see one? Wouldn't we all like to see a miracle? Is that a bad thing? I wonder what were the questions Herod asked. And why didn't Jesus even open His mouth to say something that might change Herod's heart? Herod must not have seen Jesus as a threat to his own power or position or even as somebody who could help enhance his influence. Otherwise he would have had some fear and second thoughts about treating Jesus the way he did.
Herod is like a lot of people. Jesus is right there in front of them. Sure He might be an interesting charachter. But if it seems He can't do anything for them, what good is He? They are listening to all the other voices around who want nothing more than to get rid of Jesus. And Jesus isn't going to force Himself on them. So rather than really looking at Jesus, they push Him away, they decide not to decide anything about Jesus. I choose Jesus.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Exodus 3-5; Luke 22
Luke 22:31
And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethern."
I never noticed these verses before. They come right before Jesus tells Simon Peter that he would deny Him three times. Jesus didn't say He would not allow Satan to "sift" Simon. Also, Jesus' prayer wasn't that Peter wouldn't fail, but that his faith wouldn't fail. Finally, Jesus said, "WHEN you have returned" not if, giving hope for restoration in spite of Peter's not standing firm.
I see sifting as a final refinement. It's the last chance of catching something in the flour that shouldn't go into the dough. Perhaps this "sifting" process Peter went through in his denials of Jesus were to teach him humility or that relying on his own strength rather than his faith was doomed to failure.
So often I seem to pray that I will be spared going though trials or temptations. Jesus' concern isn't the going through them, but rather that in the midst of them my faith will not fail. Even if I don't stand firm, I know God is faithful in His forgiveness is right there. My faith is in Him, not in my own ability.
And when I return, even if there's personal failure, after being sifted, I am still useful. God's abundant grace and mercy at work in my life can be an encouragement to strengthen others. If I run and hide and let my feelings of being unworthy keep me from service to Him, I've just shifted the focus from His atoning work on the cross to my own attempts at saving myself.
Be sifted and refined. Keep my eyes on Christ and my faith firmly in Him. Let Him working in me strengthen the body.
And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethern."
I never noticed these verses before. They come right before Jesus tells Simon Peter that he would deny Him three times. Jesus didn't say He would not allow Satan to "sift" Simon. Also, Jesus' prayer wasn't that Peter wouldn't fail, but that his faith wouldn't fail. Finally, Jesus said, "WHEN you have returned" not if, giving hope for restoration in spite of Peter's not standing firm.
I see sifting as a final refinement. It's the last chance of catching something in the flour that shouldn't go into the dough. Perhaps this "sifting" process Peter went through in his denials of Jesus were to teach him humility or that relying on his own strength rather than his faith was doomed to failure.
So often I seem to pray that I will be spared going though trials or temptations. Jesus' concern isn't the going through them, but rather that in the midst of them my faith will not fail. Even if I don't stand firm, I know God is faithful in His forgiveness is right there. My faith is in Him, not in my own ability.
And when I return, even if there's personal failure, after being sifted, I am still useful. God's abundant grace and mercy at work in my life can be an encouragement to strengthen others. If I run and hide and let my feelings of being unworthy keep me from service to Him, I've just shifted the focus from His atoning work on the cross to my own attempts at saving myself.
Be sifted and refined. Keep my eyes on Christ and my faith firmly in Him. Let Him working in me strengthen the body.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Exodus 1-2; Psalm 88; Luke 21
Luke 21:12-15
But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rules for My name's sake. But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist.
Boy, this sure goes against every instinct I have. I always go over and over in my mind what I want to say in certain situations. Isn't that what we're taught, especially high pressure ones like if I were ever being persecuted and brought in front of the authorities. Such an opportunity to be a witness that I wouldn't want to blow it. But Jesus says don't even think about what to say. He'll provide the words and wisdom needed.
I suppose the real solution to being able to trust Jesus in a situation like that is to train myself to live every day relying on Him for the words and wisdom, making it just how I live my life. Oops, I mean how I let Him live His life through me. Then when a crisis situation happens what will naturally flow out will be the person of faith He's transforming me into. somebody whose automatic response is, "Lord, use me and give me what I need so You can be glorified."
But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rules for My name's sake. But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist.
Boy, this sure goes against every instinct I have. I always go over and over in my mind what I want to say in certain situations. Isn't that what we're taught, especially high pressure ones like if I were ever being persecuted and brought in front of the authorities. Such an opportunity to be a witness that I wouldn't want to blow it. But Jesus says don't even think about what to say. He'll provide the words and wisdom needed.
I suppose the real solution to being able to trust Jesus in a situation like that is to train myself to live every day relying on Him for the words and wisdom, making it just how I live my life. Oops, I mean how I let Him live His life through me. Then when a crisis situation happens what will naturally flow out will be the person of faith He's transforming me into. somebody whose automatic response is, "Lord, use me and give me what I need so You can be glorified."
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Genesis 49-50; Psalm 8; Luke 20
Genesis 50:20
But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.
Joseph endured quite a bit as a result of his brothers' hatred. He was sold into slavery, taken to a far away land, seaperated from his father, unjustly imprissoned. Honestly, I would probably have a hard time keeping myself from plotting my revenge and feeling sorry for myself. But we don't read about Joseph being bitter or sulking about the situation. As a result of staying faithful to God he was blessed with authority, power, wealth and a family.
There are many evil things. And Joseph didn't say what he went through was good. But he saw the bigger picture, the result of saving many people through his period of suffering. There wasn't room for a grudge against his brothers. In spite of events around me or the circumstances in which I find myself, I need to always consider that God has a plan at work. If I turn my focus away from me and toward what God will accomplish through my faithfulness I truely become His instrument.
But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.
Joseph endured quite a bit as a result of his brothers' hatred. He was sold into slavery, taken to a far away land, seaperated from his father, unjustly imprissoned. Honestly, I would probably have a hard time keeping myself from plotting my revenge and feeling sorry for myself. But we don't read about Joseph being bitter or sulking about the situation. As a result of staying faithful to God he was blessed with authority, power, wealth and a family.
There are many evil things. And Joseph didn't say what he went through was good. But he saw the bigger picture, the result of saving many people through his period of suffering. There wasn't room for a grudge against his brothers. In spite of events around me or the circumstances in which I find myself, I need to always consider that God has a plan at work. If I turn my focus away from me and toward what God will accomplish through my faithfulness I truely become His instrument.
Genesis 47-48; Psalm 10; Luke 19
Luke 19:41 & 44b
Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it,..."because you did not know the time of your visitation."
All this time Israel was looking for their Messiah. Especially in Jerusalem where the Temnple was, God's dwelling place, I'm sure daily prayers were being offered asking God to send Him. Yet those entrusted to the knowledge of the Scriptures, those who should have been among the most vigialant, expectant, and able to recogonize Him, the Pharaisees, refused to see Him.
It breaks my heart when I see my children make a poor choice that will cause them some hurt or difficulty. How much more was Jesus' heart broken when His chosen people did not recoginize the time of His visitation as the salvation they had been longing to receive over the centuries. How could Jesus not weep knowing the consequences their rejection of Him would yield.
I must ever be vigilant to hear God's voice, feel His promptings and recogonize His leading so I will not miss His visitations or cause Him to weep.
Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it,..."because you did not know the time of your visitation."
All this time Israel was looking for their Messiah. Especially in Jerusalem where the Temnple was, God's dwelling place, I'm sure daily prayers were being offered asking God to send Him. Yet those entrusted to the knowledge of the Scriptures, those who should have been among the most vigialant, expectant, and able to recogonize Him, the Pharaisees, refused to see Him.
It breaks my heart when I see my children make a poor choice that will cause them some hurt or difficulty. How much more was Jesus' heart broken when His chosen people did not recoginize the time of His visitation as the salvation they had been longing to receive over the centuries. How could Jesus not weep knowing the consequences their rejection of Him would yield.
I must ever be vigilant to hear God's voice, feel His promptings and recogonize His leading so I will not miss His visitations or cause Him to weep.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Genesis 44-46; Luke 18
Luke 18:39
Then those who went before warned him that he should be quite; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me."
This blind man had a great need. And with Jesus coming by, he had a once in a lifetime chance to have his sight restored. Long ago he probably learned he couldn't be too proud to beg or worry about being embarassed. So when Jesus was near he shouted for him. And when those around the blind man told him to be quite, probably wanting to not be embarassed themselves, the blind begger shouted even more.
Jesus stopped. And the blind man was healed and followed Jesus.
If the blind man had listened to those who told him to keep quite, would Jesus have even stopped to heal him? Do I do anything that pressures others into not shouting for Jesus' help? that makes it embarassing for them to continue to shout out for Jesus in their time of need? Or do I persist myself in crying out even when others tell me not to or try to discourage me? Do I let my pride (couched in deference to others) keep me from creating the opportunity for Jesus to stop and do a miracle in my life?
Time and time again we've seen where Jesus rewards those who persist in their persuit of Him. He stops, takes time with them and meets their needs in miraculus ways.
Then those who went before warned him that he should be quite; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me."
This blind man had a great need. And with Jesus coming by, he had a once in a lifetime chance to have his sight restored. Long ago he probably learned he couldn't be too proud to beg or worry about being embarassed. So when Jesus was near he shouted for him. And when those around the blind man told him to be quite, probably wanting to not be embarassed themselves, the blind begger shouted even more.
Jesus stopped. And the blind man was healed and followed Jesus.
If the blind man had listened to those who told him to keep quite, would Jesus have even stopped to heal him? Do I do anything that pressures others into not shouting for Jesus' help? that makes it embarassing for them to continue to shout out for Jesus in their time of need? Or do I persist myself in crying out even when others tell me not to or try to discourage me? Do I let my pride (couched in deference to others) keep me from creating the opportunity for Jesus to stop and do a miracle in my life?
Time and time again we've seen where Jesus rewards those who persist in their persuit of Him. He stops, takes time with them and meets their needs in miraculus ways.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Genesis 42-43; Psalm 5; Luke 17
Luke 17:10
So you too, when you do all the things which are commanded you say, "We are unworthy slaves; we have done only that which we ought to have done."
One of the things I can't stand is when an athlete does something, like scores a touchdown, and then does some kind of showy strut because of the thing he just did. Isn't that what he's paid the huge salary to do? He did his job by scoring or making a big play. Why is that such a big deal?
As a believer in Jesus my life is no longer my own. I have been bought with a price and now my life is His to control and command. I deserve no acolades for doing what I ought as one of Christ's followers. In fact, there is so much I should do that I don't. If anything I deserve harsh treatment because of my many failures. But He is gracious and rich in mercy. I have an eternal hope which I don't deserve bought at a price I could never pay. I am an unworthy slave.
So you too, when you do all the things which are commanded you say, "We are unworthy slaves; we have done only that which we ought to have done."
One of the things I can't stand is when an athlete does something, like scores a touchdown, and then does some kind of showy strut because of the thing he just did. Isn't that what he's paid the huge salary to do? He did his job by scoring or making a big play. Why is that such a big deal?
As a believer in Jesus my life is no longer my own. I have been bought with a price and now my life is His to control and command. I deserve no acolades for doing what I ought as one of Christ's followers. In fact, there is so much I should do that I don't. If anything I deserve harsh treatment because of my many failures. But He is gracious and rich in mercy. I have an eternal hope which I don't deserve bought at a price I could never pay. I am an unworthy slave.
Genesis 39-41; Luke 16
Luke 16:10-12
He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own?
How I handle anything is a reflection of who I really am. Whether it's money or posessions or even the attitude I have. Joseph after being sold into slavery, being elevated to the one running Potiphar's affairs, and then being thrown into prison, ( where, by the way he also became a person of great responsibility), was always faithful. Even when nobody else was around and he could have "gotten away with" something. And it seemed he didn't really even have a stake in or recieve a bonus for how well his masters did. But he knew he wasn't really serving these men. He was being faithful to God.
I try to be frugal and a good steward of what I have. I try to be faithful even when nobody is watching. It's hard fighting the feelings of stress when it seems the amounts on the bills are higher than the amount on the paychecks. But I know no matter what the balance in my bank account, the true riches I have been given will never run out. I have such an abundance in them that the more of them I share the more I receive.
He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own?
How I handle anything is a reflection of who I really am. Whether it's money or posessions or even the attitude I have. Joseph after being sold into slavery, being elevated to the one running Potiphar's affairs, and then being thrown into prison, ( where, by the way he also became a person of great responsibility), was always faithful. Even when nobody else was around and he could have "gotten away with" something. And it seemed he didn't really even have a stake in or recieve a bonus for how well his masters did. But he knew he wasn't really serving these men. He was being faithful to God.
I try to be frugal and a good steward of what I have. I try to be faithful even when nobody is watching. It's hard fighting the feelings of stress when it seems the amounts on the bills are higher than the amount on the paychecks. But I know no matter what the balance in my bank account, the true riches I have been given will never run out. I have such an abundance in them that the more of them I share the more I receive.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Genesis 37-38; Psalm 7; Luke 15
Luke 15:25-32
Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, "Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf."
But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. So he answered and said to his father, "Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him."
And he said to him, "Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.”
I had always seemed to identify more with the non-prodigal son. Having been saved at an early age I didn’t really go through a rebellious period or have a radical transformation that brought me crawling home to my Father. I can remember kids in my youth group being celebrated for coming to Christ after years of being wild. But what about me? I had never left or lived in that kind of sinfulness. Where was the party for me?
The non-prodigal is angry and thinks it’s unfair to have a party for the returning brother. What I came to understand was, like this son, I was a prodigal in my heart. Though my body was never in a far off land. My insides were off squandering the riches of my Father’s estate.
But I’m home now, heart and all. I can avail myself of the riches my Father willingly shares with me. I celebrate with gratefulness the fact that I was spared the regrets and the pain an era of rebellion would have yielded. And I stand at the ready to rejoice with my Father when one of His who was lost is found and home safely.
Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, "Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf."
But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. So he answered and said to his father, "Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him."
And he said to him, "Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.”
I had always seemed to identify more with the non-prodigal son. Having been saved at an early age I didn’t really go through a rebellious period or have a radical transformation that brought me crawling home to my Father. I can remember kids in my youth group being celebrated for coming to Christ after years of being wild. But what about me? I had never left or lived in that kind of sinfulness. Where was the party for me?
The non-prodigal is angry and thinks it’s unfair to have a party for the returning brother. What I came to understand was, like this son, I was a prodigal in my heart. Though my body was never in a far off land. My insides were off squandering the riches of my Father’s estate.
But I’m home now, heart and all. I can avail myself of the riches my Father willingly shares with me. I celebrate with gratefulness the fact that I was spared the regrets and the pain an era of rebellion would have yielded. And I stand at the ready to rejoice with my Father when one of His who was lost is found and home safely.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Genesis 34-36; Luke 14
Luke 14:26 & 33
If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple....
So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.
Really? Forsake all I have? Hate my own life and every other person important to me? What happened to the simple prayer of "Jesus I'm a sinner. Forgive me and come into my heart." that is so universaly touted as all one has to do? I think I've said this before. Becoming a Christian and being a Christian are two very different things. Step one is so simple. But from there on out it's hard work and a constant strugle between the old self and Christ who lives in me.
There is a cost to be counted when one says they want to follow Jesus. His life in exchange for mine. If I take the salvation and righteousness He offers then I offer my own life to Him. All of it. Every nook, every cranny, nothing is mine for I am completely His.
The alternative, if I say that is too high a price, is to reject the life He offers and keep my own. But then I am stuck trying to earn my own salvation and trying to have my own righteousnes be acceptable to Him. It's the fatal choice so many make because they have been decieved into thinking it's too costly. Giving one's life to Christ is seen by many to be too restrictive. But, especially lately, I've found it to be very freeing.
If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple....
So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.
Really? Forsake all I have? Hate my own life and every other person important to me? What happened to the simple prayer of "Jesus I'm a sinner. Forgive me and come into my heart." that is so universaly touted as all one has to do? I think I've said this before. Becoming a Christian and being a Christian are two very different things. Step one is so simple. But from there on out it's hard work and a constant strugle between the old self and Christ who lives in me.
There is a cost to be counted when one says they want to follow Jesus. His life in exchange for mine. If I take the salvation and righteousness He offers then I offer my own life to Him. All of it. Every nook, every cranny, nothing is mine for I am completely His.
The alternative, if I say that is too high a price, is to reject the life He offers and keep my own. But then I am stuck trying to earn my own salvation and trying to have my own righteousnes be acceptable to Him. It's the fatal choice so many make because they have been decieved into thinking it's too costly. Giving one's life to Christ is seen by many to be too restrictive. But, especially lately, I've found it to be very freeing.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Genesis 31-33; Luke 13
Luke 13:6-9
He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’”
I am the fig tree, So many barren years, deserving of being cut down. The master comes each time hoping to see fruit and leaves disappointed by another growing season with nothing to show for it. I wonder just how close the saw blade came to my trunk, how many chances I've been given that I don't deserve. But by God's mercy I have been spared and offered yet another year to blossom. In His grace He has dug around me, removed weeds that hinder growth and maturity, and fertilized the soil. Praise God for His patience with me. It's time for a bountiful crop.
He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’”
I am the fig tree, So many barren years, deserving of being cut down. The master comes each time hoping to see fruit and leaves disappointed by another growing season with nothing to show for it. I wonder just how close the saw blade came to my trunk, how many chances I've been given that I don't deserve. But by God's mercy I have been spared and offered yet another year to blossom. In His grace He has dug around me, removed weeds that hinder growth and maturity, and fertilized the soil. Praise God for His patience with me. It's time for a bountiful crop.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Genesis 29-30; Luke 12
Luke 12:51
Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division.
Huh? Is this the Jesus we've been taught about in Sunday school? Where's the gentle, compassionate Jesus? Where's the teacher that says allow the children to come to me? Where's The Prince of Peace? He sounds like a rebel, a radical.
But following Jesus is radical. To claim the name of Christ you must join the army of rebellion against this world and the one who currently rules over it. Jesus will divide the sheep from the goats. He'll divide those branches which bear fruit from those that are fruitless and needing to be cut off and cast in the fire. He'll divide those who place their faith in Him and store up heavenly treasure from those who seek after the riches that the world offers and find their comfort in their stuff.
And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Luke 12:29-31
I'm not sure how to really flesh that out, what living like that looks like in Wichita in 2009. But if I set my face toward Him, if I seek God and His kingdom first, I will lack for nothing that I need.
Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division.
Huh? Is this the Jesus we've been taught about in Sunday school? Where's the gentle, compassionate Jesus? Where's the teacher that says allow the children to come to me? Where's The Prince of Peace? He sounds like a rebel, a radical.
But following Jesus is radical. To claim the name of Christ you must join the army of rebellion against this world and the one who currently rules over it. Jesus will divide the sheep from the goats. He'll divide those branches which bear fruit from those that are fruitless and needing to be cut off and cast in the fire. He'll divide those who place their faith in Him and store up heavenly treasure from those who seek after the riches that the world offers and find their comfort in their stuff.
And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Luke 12:29-31
I'm not sure how to really flesh that out, what living like that looks like in Wichita in 2009. But if I set my face toward Him, if I seek God and His kingdom first, I will lack for nothing that I need.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Genesis 27-28; Psalm 4; Luke 11
Psalm 4:8
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
So often I rely on stuff or myself to make me feel safe and secure. I check the doors of my house each night to make sure they are locked before I go to bed. I look over my 401K statement every so often to see how my retirement savings are doing. I listen to the news to see how the economy is so I'll know if my job is secure. Yet none of that is what provides ultimate peace and safety. Yet you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. It's such a tough thing to reprogram into my mind and the way I live.
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
So often I rely on stuff or myself to make me feel safe and secure. I check the doors of my house each night to make sure they are locked before I go to bed. I look over my 401K statement every so often to see how my retirement savings are doing. I listen to the news to see how the economy is so I'll know if my job is secure. Yet none of that is what provides ultimate peace and safety. Yet you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. It's such a tough thing to reprogram into my mind and the way I live.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Genesis 25-26; Psalm 6, Luke 10
Luke 10:20
However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.
It is so easy to get wrapped up in what is going on around us or what God is doing through us. But here Jesus draws the focus of those He sent out to what really matters. Sure God can do great and seemingly impossible things. But what really is important, the thing that is worth celebrating isn't all that stuff. It is that God loved me so much that He sent Jesus here to die so I can be with Him forever. It's great that I am healthy and smart and all that. But praise God that I am His! That's what really counts. Always keep things in the eternal perspective.
However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.
It is so easy to get wrapped up in what is going on around us or what God is doing through us. But here Jesus draws the focus of those He sent out to what really matters. Sure God can do great and seemingly impossible things. But what really is important, the thing that is worth celebrating isn't all that stuff. It is that God loved me so much that He sent Jesus here to die so I can be with Him forever. It's great that I am healthy and smart and all that. But praise God that I am His! That's what really counts. Always keep things in the eternal perspective.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Genesis 23-24; Luke9
Luke 9:23-26
Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory and in His Father's and of the holy angels."
What does denying myself, taking up my cross daily and losing my life for His sake look like for me in 2009? I've been struggling with trying to figure that out for months before I even read that today. I don't live an extravagant lifestyle. I'm fairly frugal, but I wouldn't say I am denied anything I really, really want. How do I balance good stewardship like putting some money away for retirement and trusting that God will provide in my old age so why not give all my excess away? Is hoping my 401K does well mean I'm trying to gain the whole world? Is recreational reading, watching TV or doing anything purposeless just for fun sinful and showing a lack of denying myself?
I don't necessarily think losing my life means dying. But rather having Christ live through me, my actions and my words. Seeing my life as not mine to control anymore but as one yielded to His purposes and not my own. But again I come back to what does that look like in everyday living. Vocational change? Changes in areas of how and where I serve? Changes in how I am in relationships? I'm sure these are things I shall continue to ponder and seek devine guidance on for some time to come.
Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory and in His Father's and of the holy angels."
What does denying myself, taking up my cross daily and losing my life for His sake look like for me in 2009? I've been struggling with trying to figure that out for months before I even read that today. I don't live an extravagant lifestyle. I'm fairly frugal, but I wouldn't say I am denied anything I really, really want. How do I balance good stewardship like putting some money away for retirement and trusting that God will provide in my old age so why not give all my excess away? Is hoping my 401K does well mean I'm trying to gain the whole world? Is recreational reading, watching TV or doing anything purposeless just for fun sinful and showing a lack of denying myself?
I don't necessarily think losing my life means dying. But rather having Christ live through me, my actions and my words. Seeing my life as not mine to control anymore but as one yielded to His purposes and not my own. But again I come back to what does that look like in everyday living. Vocational change? Changes in areas of how and where I serve? Changes in how I am in relationships? I'm sure these are things I shall continue to ponder and seek devine guidance on for some time to come.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Genesis 20-22; Luke 8
Genesis 20:2-7
Now Abraham said of Sarah his wife, “She is my sister.” And Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah.
But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, “Indeed you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is a man’s wife.” But Abimelech had not come near her; and he said, “Lord, will You slay a righteous nation also? Did he not say to me, ‘She is my sister’? And she, even she herself said, ‘He is my brother.’ In the integrity of my heart and innocence of my hands I have done this.”
And God said to him in a dream, “Yes, I know that you did this in the integrity of your heart. For I also withheld you from sinning against Me; therefore I did not let you touch her. Now therefore, restore the man’s wife; for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you shall live. But if you do not restore her, know that you shall surely die, you and all who are yours.”
A couple of things hit me in these verses. First, if God had not spoken to Abimelech, Abraham's half-truth would have cost him his life and the lives of all who were his. A single sin, no matter how "small", (in God's eyes, no sin is small), can have devistating consequences to other people even if they are trying to live with integrity. Abimelech was merely acting properly in light of what Abraham and Sarah had said. He had no intent of doing anything wrong. But had God not interviened, Abimelech would have paid dearly for Abraham's omission of the truth.
Also, God withheld Abimelech from sinning. It's often said that ignorance of the law is no excuse. Abilelech was completely ignorant of the fact that Sarah was the wife of another man. The way things looked to him, he was violating nothing. But God cannot stand to see His law violated, even if it is done in ignorance. So God, knowing Abimelech was trying to act with integrity, didn't even let Abimelech touch Sarah. Once Abimelech knew the truth of the matter he had a choice to make. He could either restore Sarah to Abraham or continue on a path that would lead to his distruction.
This wasn't the first instance of Abraham showing his fear of men was greater than his fear of God. Yet God kept His promise to bless Abraham. It kind of puzzles me that God would have such severe consequences in store for an "innocent mistake" yet greatly bless the person who sinned to start that wrath ball rolling. Just gotta chalk it up to God is soviergn.
I need to ever aware that even what may seem like a small sin can bring terrible consequences to innocent people around me. Also, I need to make sure I act with integrity in all my dealings and pray that even if acting in innocnce and ignorance, God will not allow me to sin. I guess I understand a litle better the closing of Jude:
Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, Who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.
Amen.
Now Abraham said of Sarah his wife, “She is my sister.” And Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah.
But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, “Indeed you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is a man’s wife.” But Abimelech had not come near her; and he said, “Lord, will You slay a righteous nation also? Did he not say to me, ‘She is my sister’? And she, even she herself said, ‘He is my brother.’ In the integrity of my heart and innocence of my hands I have done this.”
And God said to him in a dream, “Yes, I know that you did this in the integrity of your heart. For I also withheld you from sinning against Me; therefore I did not let you touch her. Now therefore, restore the man’s wife; for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you shall live. But if you do not restore her, know that you shall surely die, you and all who are yours.”
A couple of things hit me in these verses. First, if God had not spoken to Abimelech, Abraham's half-truth would have cost him his life and the lives of all who were his. A single sin, no matter how "small", (in God's eyes, no sin is small), can have devistating consequences to other people even if they are trying to live with integrity. Abimelech was merely acting properly in light of what Abraham and Sarah had said. He had no intent of doing anything wrong. But had God not interviened, Abimelech would have paid dearly for Abraham's omission of the truth.
Also, God withheld Abimelech from sinning. It's often said that ignorance of the law is no excuse. Abilelech was completely ignorant of the fact that Sarah was the wife of another man. The way things looked to him, he was violating nothing. But God cannot stand to see His law violated, even if it is done in ignorance. So God, knowing Abimelech was trying to act with integrity, didn't even let Abimelech touch Sarah. Once Abimelech knew the truth of the matter he had a choice to make. He could either restore Sarah to Abraham or continue on a path that would lead to his distruction.
This wasn't the first instance of Abraham showing his fear of men was greater than his fear of God. Yet God kept His promise to bless Abraham. It kind of puzzles me that God would have such severe consequences in store for an "innocent mistake" yet greatly bless the person who sinned to start that wrath ball rolling. Just gotta chalk it up to God is soviergn.
I need to ever aware that even what may seem like a small sin can bring terrible consequences to innocent people around me. Also, I need to make sure I act with integrity in all my dealings and pray that even if acting in innocnce and ignorance, God will not allow me to sin. I guess I understand a litle better the closing of Jude:
Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, Who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.
Amen.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Genesis 18-19; Psalm 3; Luke 7
Luke 7:37-38
And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, and stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head.
It was probably the norm for this woman to be scorned by the Pharisees, to be looked down upon as an inferior. I'm sure when she'd see them on the street she would turn and walk the other way to avoid their judgmental looks. But Jesus. She knew He was somebody unlike any of them. She was drawn to Him even though it meant the humiliation of going into the house of one who had contempt for her.
There she was, behind Jesus, weeping. Not just a tear here or there. Weeping. Tears flowing in such an amount that she could wash Jesus' feet with them. She wasn't there to discuss theological issues. Her motivation wasn't to impress Jesus. But Jesus, He made an impression on her. He touched her heart to such an extent that she tuned everything out except for serving Jesus. And this was even before Jesus uttered the words to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
She didn't have all the schooling or training in the scriptures that the Pharisees did. But she recognized who Jesus was. How do I see Jesus? I get so locked up in trying to figure out all the theology of things and how I think it all works. Perhaps I need to just be in Jesus presence, weep at His feet and love Him in every way I can because of who He is and how undeserving I am of the forgiveness He offers.
And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, and stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head.
It was probably the norm for this woman to be scorned by the Pharisees, to be looked down upon as an inferior. I'm sure when she'd see them on the street she would turn and walk the other way to avoid their judgmental looks. But Jesus. She knew He was somebody unlike any of them. She was drawn to Him even though it meant the humiliation of going into the house of one who had contempt for her.
There she was, behind Jesus, weeping. Not just a tear here or there. Weeping. Tears flowing in such an amount that she could wash Jesus' feet with them. She wasn't there to discuss theological issues. Her motivation wasn't to impress Jesus. But Jesus, He made an impression on her. He touched her heart to such an extent that she tuned everything out except for serving Jesus. And this was even before Jesus uttered the words to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
She didn't have all the schooling or training in the scriptures that the Pharisees did. But she recognized who Jesus was. How do I see Jesus? I get so locked up in trying to figure out all the theology of things and how I think it all works. Perhaps I need to just be in Jesus presence, weep at His feet and love Him in every way I can because of who He is and how undeserving I am of the forgiveness He offers.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Genesis 15-17; Luke 6
Genesis 15:6
And he (Abram) believed in the Lord, and He (the Lord) accounted it to him (Abram) for righteousness.
Abram, later renamed Abraham, didn't ask for a sign. He didn't require God's signature on a receipt. He just believed in the Lord and His promise. And this doesn't say Abram believed AND sacrificed before God accounted it to him as righteousness. Abram believed and God considered him righteous based on his faith.
I'm not going down the whole faith/works path here. I do believe one's works, how they live, reflect the faith or lack there of. But this simple verse says the belief resulted in the acounting of righteousness towards Abram. Oh, and after this Abram did make a few blunders trying to help God out in keeping His promise so it's not like Abram was perfect. It seems sometimes our actions, our works aren't the best way to show our faith. We need to trust God's timing for fulfilling His promises even when we completely believe He'll keep His word.
I need to learn how to wait better. You know how sometimes when you are driving across town and there seems to be some very slow traffic ahead. Sometimes you'll take an exit and drive fifteen minutes out of your way to avoid waiting in crawling traffic for five minutes just because you want to keep moving, to feel like you are at least getting somewhere. I really believe God has something in store for my future. It's very tempting to take an exit and try to find my own way to that destination when I feel like I'm just crawling along in traffic.
And he (Abram) believed in the Lord, and He (the Lord) accounted it to him (Abram) for righteousness.
Abram, later renamed Abraham, didn't ask for a sign. He didn't require God's signature on a receipt. He just believed in the Lord and His promise. And this doesn't say Abram believed AND sacrificed before God accounted it to him as righteousness. Abram believed and God considered him righteous based on his faith.
I'm not going down the whole faith/works path here. I do believe one's works, how they live, reflect the faith or lack there of. But this simple verse says the belief resulted in the acounting of righteousness towards Abram. Oh, and after this Abram did make a few blunders trying to help God out in keeping His promise so it's not like Abram was perfect. It seems sometimes our actions, our works aren't the best way to show our faith. We need to trust God's timing for fulfilling His promises even when we completely believe He'll keep His word.
I need to learn how to wait better. You know how sometimes when you are driving across town and there seems to be some very slow traffic ahead. Sometimes you'll take an exit and drive fifteen minutes out of your way to avoid waiting in crawling traffic for five minutes just because you want to keep moving, to feel like you are at least getting somewhere. I really believe God has something in store for my future. It's very tempting to take an exit and try to find my own way to that destination when I feel like I'm just crawling along in traffic.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Genesis 12-14; Luke 5
Luke 5:4-5
When Jesus had finished speaking, He said to Simon, "Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch."
Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because You say so, I will let down the nets."
At this point, Simon Peter hadn't even started to follow Jesus. He just let Jesus use his boat from which He spoke to the crowd. I wonder what Jesus was saying that made Simon respond, "Master,... because You say so..." Especially when he had spent a hard night working with no results.
I'm usually too proud, too smart, too self-confident to do something just because somebody says so. Don't "they" say insanity is doing the same thing over again and expecting different results? Simon and company probably cast their nets a number of times in the night and hauled up nothing. Yet, Jesus says cast them again so he does. They caught more than they could handle. And then they left everything and followed Jesus.
This time I'm spending cracking open my Bible each day is the pushing the boat out and listening to Jesus teach from it. Oh that I would have ears that will hear what Jesus is teaching and a heart that is tender enough so when it's time for my nets to be cast that I will respond, "because You say so, I will..." without question. I need to stop my tendency of "leaning on my own understanding" and just trust God and obey.
When Jesus had finished speaking, He said to Simon, "Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch."
Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because You say so, I will let down the nets."
At this point, Simon Peter hadn't even started to follow Jesus. He just let Jesus use his boat from which He spoke to the crowd. I wonder what Jesus was saying that made Simon respond, "Master,... because You say so..." Especially when he had spent a hard night working with no results.
I'm usually too proud, too smart, too self-confident to do something just because somebody says so. Don't "they" say insanity is doing the same thing over again and expecting different results? Simon and company probably cast their nets a number of times in the night and hauled up nothing. Yet, Jesus says cast them again so he does. They caught more than they could handle. And then they left everything and followed Jesus.
This time I'm spending cracking open my Bible each day is the pushing the boat out and listening to Jesus teach from it. Oh that I would have ears that will hear what Jesus is teaching and a heart that is tender enough so when it's time for my nets to be cast that I will respond, "because You say so, I will..." without question. I need to stop my tendency of "leaning on my own understanding" and just trust God and obey.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Genesis 9-11; Luke 4
Luke 4:13
Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time.
Jesus faced the devil's temptations and won. Though defeated, the devil didn't give up. He just waited for an opportune time. This is why I must always be on my guard. I can't just win one battle and then think that's it. For our adversary hasn't stopped doing his evil deeds. He's just waiting for an opportune time. He is the lion searching for one whom he can devour. I must be vigilant and not even give him an opportunity, a foothold that would let his temptations pull me away.
Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time.
Jesus faced the devil's temptations and won. Though defeated, the devil didn't give up. He just waited for an opportune time. This is why I must always be on my guard. I can't just win one battle and then think that's it. For our adversary hasn't stopped doing his evil deeds. He's just waiting for an opportune time. He is the lion searching for one whom he can devour. I must be vigilant and not even give him an opportunity, a foothold that would let his temptations pull me away.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Genesis 6-8; Luke 3
Genesis 6:5 & 8
Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.
Noah wasn't sinless. He faced the same battles I face today of fighting not only the corrupt culture of depravity around him, but also the inner battle of wanting to live justly but having a wicked, evil sin nature. The passage doesn't say what specific things Noah did to have God grant him grace. Only that he was righteous before God.
But even though God gave grace to Noah, there was still work to be done. Noah had to obey and follow God's instructions. Despite how odd it seemed to build the ark, Noah still obeyed. He literally worked out his salvation from the flood by building the ark. If Noah just thanked God for His grace but took no action, he would have perished in the flood along with the rest of humanity.
It's not enough to just accept God's gift of grace. There is work on my part that goes with that. It may be very hard work or something that will draw ridicule from those around me. But if I am walking justly, if I am striving to find favor in God's eyes by how I live, He will deliver me from the flood.
Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.
Noah wasn't sinless. He faced the same battles I face today of fighting not only the corrupt culture of depravity around him, but also the inner battle of wanting to live justly but having a wicked, evil sin nature. The passage doesn't say what specific things Noah did to have God grant him grace. Only that he was righteous before God.
But even though God gave grace to Noah, there was still work to be done. Noah had to obey and follow God's instructions. Despite how odd it seemed to build the ark, Noah still obeyed. He literally worked out his salvation from the flood by building the ark. If Noah just thanked God for His grace but took no action, he would have perished in the flood along with the rest of humanity.
It's not enough to just accept God's gift of grace. There is work on my part that goes with that. It may be very hard work or something that will draw ridicule from those around me. But if I am walking justly, if I am striving to find favor in God's eyes by how I live, He will deliver me from the flood.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Genesis 3-5; Luke 2
Luke 2:29-32
Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace according to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.
God revealed to Simeon that he wouldn't die until he saw the Lord's Christ. When Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple as a baby to present Him to the Lord, Simeon took that little baby and said those words. But Jesus hadn't even done anything yet. He had no followers. He hadn't done a single miracle. He hadn't taught a single parable or even uttered His first words. There had been no cross, no death, no blood shed to pay the penalty for sin, no resurection to conquer death. Yet Simeon said his eyes had seen God's salvation.
I doubt that Simeon even knew what was in store for Jesus or how God's plan for salvation would work out through Him. But Simeon knew God and trusted in His promises. If he had a bumper there would have been a sticker on it that read, "God said it. I believe it. That settles it." How I want to have eyes like Simeon's. Eyes that look beyond the here and now. How I want to be patient, just and devout like Simoen, who waited for the Consolation if Istael and praised God even though God's plan for salvation wouldn't be complete in his lifetime.
Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace according to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.
God revealed to Simeon that he wouldn't die until he saw the Lord's Christ. When Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple as a baby to present Him to the Lord, Simeon took that little baby and said those words. But Jesus hadn't even done anything yet. He had no followers. He hadn't done a single miracle. He hadn't taught a single parable or even uttered His first words. There had been no cross, no death, no blood shed to pay the penalty for sin, no resurection to conquer death. Yet Simeon said his eyes had seen God's salvation.
I doubt that Simeon even knew what was in store for Jesus or how God's plan for salvation would work out through Him. But Simeon knew God and trusted in His promises. If he had a bumper there would have been a sticker on it that read, "God said it. I believe it. That settles it." How I want to have eyes like Simeon's. Eyes that look beyond the here and now. How I want to be patient, just and devout like Simoen, who waited for the Consolation if Istael and praised God even though God's plan for salvation wouldn't be complete in his lifetime.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Genesis 1-2; Luke 1
Luke 1:37
For with God nothing will be impossible.
Before I even knew what the passage was for today's reading I watch "Facing the Giants" twice. I'm thinking I need to make that my newest New Years Day tradition. Near the end there is a scene of the coach talking to his team in the locker room after winning the champoinship and asking the players what is impossible for God. "Nothing!" I know it's just a fictional movie. But the point, the message of this movie expresses the truth of this very verse.
If I want anything for my life in 2009, it's to live with that kind of faith. Zacharias, as a priest, knew the historical instances of God doing the "impossible" for Israel. Yet even though he prayed for a child, he doubted that God would do the impossible in his own life by giving him a son. God made him mute until his son was born.
My focus needs to be squarely on doing my best for God and honoring Him in all I do and always with my best effort. Not that my strength will win any battles. But through me, if it will be for God's glory, He will do the impossible. Broken down van. Nothing is impossible for God. Skinny balance in the checking account while bills seem to constantly come in. Nothing is impossible for God. People I know or work with who have no interest in God. Nothing is impossible for God.
I serve an awesome God, the Creator of the universe. Nothing is impossible for God.
For with God nothing will be impossible.
Before I even knew what the passage was for today's reading I watch "Facing the Giants" twice. I'm thinking I need to make that my newest New Years Day tradition. Near the end there is a scene of the coach talking to his team in the locker room after winning the champoinship and asking the players what is impossible for God. "Nothing!" I know it's just a fictional movie. But the point, the message of this movie expresses the truth of this very verse.
If I want anything for my life in 2009, it's to live with that kind of faith. Zacharias, as a priest, knew the historical instances of God doing the "impossible" for Israel. Yet even though he prayed for a child, he doubted that God would do the impossible in his own life by giving him a son. God made him mute until his son was born.
My focus needs to be squarely on doing my best for God and honoring Him in all I do and always with my best effort. Not that my strength will win any battles. But through me, if it will be for God's glory, He will do the impossible. Broken down van. Nothing is impossible for God. Skinny balance in the checking account while bills seem to constantly come in. Nothing is impossible for God. People I know or work with who have no interest in God. Nothing is impossible for God.
I serve an awesome God, the Creator of the universe. Nothing is impossible for God.
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