1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Society banters about the word love, but clearly does not not use this definition. There's nothing here about making one feel good, sexuality or causing one's heart to skip a beat. This love looks like it wouldn't come easy. It would be hard work. And I don't see that there's any "being out" of love here.
Jesus told us the world would know His followers by their love for one another. I can only imagine how every church would be transformed if we really were to show this kind of love to our brothers and sisters. It's revolutionary. We would really become "communities" of believers, our lives interconnected, not just groups that gather once a week or so if we modeled this kind of love.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Numbers 21-23; Mark 6-7
Numbers 23:21a
He has not observed iniquity in Jacob, nor has He seen wickedness in Israel.
I've been seeing a lot of wickedness in Israel as I've been reading through the Bible. Just in chapter 21 the people were speaking out agains God. Is this thing that God told Balaam to speak a mistake? I may be over simplifying it. But to me it means when God says He forgives and accepts our repentance, He really does. Does He know we are going to fail again? Of course. But the sacrifice for sin cleans the slate. And Jesus, the final and only perfect sacrifice, has taken my sin and given me His righteousness. It's a righteousness not of my own doing that God sees when He looks at me.
He has not observed iniquity in Jacob, nor has He seen wickedness in Israel.
I've been seeing a lot of wickedness in Israel as I've been reading through the Bible. Just in chapter 21 the people were speaking out agains God. Is this thing that God told Balaam to speak a mistake? I may be over simplifying it. But to me it means when God says He forgives and accepts our repentance, He really does. Does He know we are going to fail again? Of course. But the sacrifice for sin cleans the slate. And Jesus, the final and only perfect sacrifice, has taken my sin and given me His righteousness. It's a righteousness not of my own doing that God sees when He looks at me.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Numbers 19-20; Psalm 28; Mark 5
Mark 5:35-36
While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”
As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not be afraid; only believe.”
I really needed this reminder today, that God is the God of the impossible. When I look at circumstances or situations that I think are hopeless it becomes so easy to decide there's no sense in bothering the Teacher any further. But then Jesus is right there, knowing my weakness and lack of faith, telling me not to worry but to believe.
And believing in God for something that seems impossible might bring ridicule from others, just as the mourners at Jairus' house ridiculed Jesus right before he raised Jairus' daughter back to life. I need to recognize that trusting God for the unseen, "impossible" things goes against the humanistic, "logical" system of this fallen world. But I know I can trust and have faith in the Creator of the universe, the Lover of my soul, even for those things that my natural eyes tell me are beyond hope.
While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”
As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not be afraid; only believe.”
I really needed this reminder today, that God is the God of the impossible. When I look at circumstances or situations that I think are hopeless it becomes so easy to decide there's no sense in bothering the Teacher any further. But then Jesus is right there, knowing my weakness and lack of faith, telling me not to worry but to believe.
And believing in God for something that seems impossible might bring ridicule from others, just as the mourners at Jairus' house ridiculed Jesus right before he raised Jairus' daughter back to life. I need to recognize that trusting God for the unseen, "impossible" things goes against the humanistic, "logical" system of this fallen world. But I know I can trust and have faith in the Creator of the universe, the Lover of my soul, even for those things that my natural eyes tell me are beyond hope.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Numbers 17-18; Psalm 29; Mark 4
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!"
The twelve had left everything to follow Jesus. They knew there was a "God thing" going on. But they still hadn't fully understood who Jesus was. Or did they? They had seen miracle after miracle. They saw His compassion toward the hurting and broken. They heard His teaching and saw how His understand of the Law was far beyond the religious leaders'. Perhaps their terrified feelings were because they did relaize who this was that calmed the wind and the waves with His words.
It is a terrifying thing to realize one is in God's presence. To approach God in an unclean state or without going about it through the proper ceremony meant instant death. But these twelve had been invited into Jesus presence. He chose and called them. It's always a balancing act between having fear and being in awe of Holy God and having faith because He came and invited me to follow in spite of my failure and uncleanness.
He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!"
The twelve had left everything to follow Jesus. They knew there was a "God thing" going on. But they still hadn't fully understood who Jesus was. Or did they? They had seen miracle after miracle. They saw His compassion toward the hurting and broken. They heard His teaching and saw how His understand of the Law was far beyond the religious leaders'. Perhaps their terrified feelings were because they did relaize who this was that calmed the wind and the waves with His words.
It is a terrifying thing to realize one is in God's presence. To approach God in an unclean state or without going about it through the proper ceremony meant instant death. But these twelve had been invited into Jesus presence. He chose and called them. It's always a balancing act between having fear and being in awe of Holy God and having faith because He came and invited me to follow in spite of my failure and uncleanness.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Numbers 14-16; Mark 3
Numbers 14:8-9
If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up. Their protection is gone, but the LORD is with us. Do not be afraid of them.
Joshua and Caleb got it. They had seen all God had done for His people and knew if their trust was in Him they had nothing to fear from the people who occupied the land the Lord promised them. They also knew to rebel against God and not fear Him would bring destruction. How could the others who had been on this same journey and seen the same miracles and provision of God with Joshua and Caleb not have known this? What upset the rest of the folks so much about the words that Joshua and Caleb spoke that the people wanted to stone them?
Some people it seems just don't like truth. They don't like to be confronted with things that don't match how they perceive something or that may cause them to alter how they have been living. I'm certain I have many blind spots where I am that way. But I've found as I age and mature I am much more able to receive words that force me to examine how I live in light of truth.
Joshua and Caleb were the only ones from that generation who got to enter the promised land. But they still had to endure forty more years of wandering because of the rebellion of the others. They were so close to realizing God promise and had it snatched away. But still they trusted. And God kept His word to them. Not only must I trust God even when it seems I'm having to wander longer. But I need to realize that if I choose to rebel, others may have to endure more time wandering because of me. We're all in this together as His people. If the Lord delights in us, He will bring us into the land.
If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up. Their protection is gone, but the LORD is with us. Do not be afraid of them.
Joshua and Caleb got it. They had seen all God had done for His people and knew if their trust was in Him they had nothing to fear from the people who occupied the land the Lord promised them. They also knew to rebel against God and not fear Him would bring destruction. How could the others who had been on this same journey and seen the same miracles and provision of God with Joshua and Caleb not have known this? What upset the rest of the folks so much about the words that Joshua and Caleb spoke that the people wanted to stone them?
Some people it seems just don't like truth. They don't like to be confronted with things that don't match how they perceive something or that may cause them to alter how they have been living. I'm certain I have many blind spots where I am that way. But I've found as I age and mature I am much more able to receive words that force me to examine how I live in light of truth.
Joshua and Caleb were the only ones from that generation who got to enter the promised land. But they still had to endure forty more years of wandering because of the rebellion of the others. They were so close to realizing God promise and had it snatched away. But still they trusted. And God kept His word to them. Not only must I trust God even when it seems I'm having to wander longer. But I need to realize that if I choose to rebel, others may have to endure more time wandering because of me. We're all in this together as His people. If the Lord delights in us, He will bring us into the land.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Number 12-13; Psalm 90; Mark 2
Psalm 90:12-17
Teach us to number our days aright,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, O LORD! How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
for as many years as we have seen trouble.
May your deeds be shown to your servants,
your splendor to their children.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands.
Just the other day my kids askd the difference between being smart and being wise. I said something like being smart is knowing a lot of things. But wisom is being able to properly apply that knowledge. I'm pretty smart regarding all this God stuff. But I desire to gain the heart of wisdom the psalmist writes about.
Just like everybody else, I struggle with wanting to always do the right things, but feeling the pull of my sinful nature working against that. And when the flesh wins those battles, I can only look to God's mercy and love to help me face the consequences I so rightly deserve. Even in the midst of those aflictions I have brought upon my self by my disobedience, God is at work to teach and refine me. He will not give up on me. His favor is shown to me not only in times of ease and comfort. But perhaps even more so in those times of loving discilpine. And when I submit to His discilpine and yield to His leading, He will establish the work of my hands. Because in that state of surrender to Him, my hands are doing His work, no my own.
"Take my life and let it be all for You and for Your glory.
Take my life and let it be Yours.
Glory to God. Glory to God.
Glory to God, forever!"
by: Steve Fee, Vicky Beeching
Teach us to number our days aright,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, O LORD! How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
for as many years as we have seen trouble.
May your deeds be shown to your servants,
your splendor to their children.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands.
Just the other day my kids askd the difference between being smart and being wise. I said something like being smart is knowing a lot of things. But wisom is being able to properly apply that knowledge. I'm pretty smart regarding all this God stuff. But I desire to gain the heart of wisdom the psalmist writes about.
Just like everybody else, I struggle with wanting to always do the right things, but feeling the pull of my sinful nature working against that. And when the flesh wins those battles, I can only look to God's mercy and love to help me face the consequences I so rightly deserve. Even in the midst of those aflictions I have brought upon my self by my disobedience, God is at work to teach and refine me. He will not give up on me. His favor is shown to me not only in times of ease and comfort. But perhaps even more so in those times of loving discilpine. And when I submit to His discilpine and yield to His leading, He will establish the work of my hands. Because in that state of surrender to Him, my hands are doing His work, no my own.
"Take my life and let it be all for You and for Your glory.
Take my life and let it be Yours.
Glory to God. Glory to God.
Glory to God, forever!"
by: Steve Fee, Vicky Beeching
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Numbers 10-11; Psalm 27; Mark 1
Psalm 27:8, 14
When You said, "Seek My face," my heart said to You, "Your face, Lord, I will seek."
Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
I have never been more committed to seeking God than I am right now. My desire for Him and His word seems to continue to grow. I am so eager to please Him and wanting to do what He wills. I'm ready for my marching orders. I really wasn't expecting that waiting would be it.
When You said, "Seek My face," my heart said to You, "Your face, Lord, I will seek."
Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
I have never been more committed to seeking God than I am right now. My desire for Him and His word seems to continue to grow. I am so eager to please Him and wanting to do what He wills. I'm ready for my marching orders. I really wasn't expecting that waiting would be it.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Numbers 8-9; Acts 28
Numbers 22-23
Whether it was two days, a month, or a year that the cloud remained above the tabernacle, the children of Israel would remain encamped and not journey; but when it was taken up, they would journey. At the command of the Lord they remained encamped, and at the command of the Lord they journeyed; they kept the charge of the Lord, at the command of the Lord by the hand of Moses.
Boy that sure would make it easy. See the cloud above the tabernacle and stay. Don't see the cloud, then follow it to where the Lord wants you. Excuse me while I do a little cloud gazing. Oh, does anybody out there happen to know Moses' cell number? I hear he's kind of a "spiritual meteorologist" who has the inside line on how to properly interpret the clouds.
Whether it was two days, a month, or a year that the cloud remained above the tabernacle, the children of Israel would remain encamped and not journey; but when it was taken up, they would journey. At the command of the Lord they remained encamped, and at the command of the Lord they journeyed; they kept the charge of the Lord, at the command of the Lord by the hand of Moses.
Boy that sure would make it easy. See the cloud above the tabernacle and stay. Don't see the cloud, then follow it to where the Lord wants you. Excuse me while I do a little cloud gazing. Oh, does anybody out there happen to know Moses' cell number? I hear he's kind of a "spiritual meteorologist" who has the inside line on how to properly interpret the clouds.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Numbers 7; Psalm 23; Acts 27
Number 7:1, 10-11
Now it came to pass, when Moses had finished setting up the tabernacle, that he anointed it and consecrated it and all its furnishings, and the altar and all its utensils; so he anointed them and consecrated them.
Now the leaders offered the dedication offering for the altar when it was anointed; so the leaders offered their offering before the alter. For the Lord said to Moses, "They shall offer their offering, one leader each day, for the dedication of the altar."
Every day for twelve days a leader of one of the tribes would bring the offering for their tribe. Each tribe brought the same thing, a silver platter and bowl full of flour and oil as a grain offering, a gold pan full of incense, a young bull, a ram, and a male lamb as a burnt offering, a kid goat as a sin offering, and two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five more lambs as peace offerings. Through seventy-two verses it repeats the same words with the exception of which day it was and who brought it on behalf of which tribe. Why repeat this over and over again? Plus, the first verse already says the altar was anointed and consecrated. So what really was the dedication offering for the altar about?
Without the altar, the place where the price is paid for transgression, there is no way to approach the Holy God. It is central to maintaining the relationship between God and His people. If there is no altar, there are no sacrifices and there is no access to God. Each tribe, through their leader's offering, was saying they knew they needed the altar and were dedicating themselves to following God's prescribed method of keeping right in His sight.
Israel was dedicating themselves to what would be happening at the altar. But in 2009 A.D. I need to make sure I am dedicated to what has already happened on the altar of the cross of Calvary; The sacrifice I could not make to pay my price for transgressing the law I could not keep. My offering of dedication for the altar isn't grain or gold, bulls or goats. It can be nothing less than my all.
Now it came to pass, when Moses had finished setting up the tabernacle, that he anointed it and consecrated it and all its furnishings, and the altar and all its utensils; so he anointed them and consecrated them.
Now the leaders offered the dedication offering for the altar when it was anointed; so the leaders offered their offering before the alter. For the Lord said to Moses, "They shall offer their offering, one leader each day, for the dedication of the altar."
Every day for twelve days a leader of one of the tribes would bring the offering for their tribe. Each tribe brought the same thing, a silver platter and bowl full of flour and oil as a grain offering, a gold pan full of incense, a young bull, a ram, and a male lamb as a burnt offering, a kid goat as a sin offering, and two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five more lambs as peace offerings. Through seventy-two verses it repeats the same words with the exception of which day it was and who brought it on behalf of which tribe. Why repeat this over and over again? Plus, the first verse already says the altar was anointed and consecrated. So what really was the dedication offering for the altar about?
Without the altar, the place where the price is paid for transgression, there is no way to approach the Holy God. It is central to maintaining the relationship between God and His people. If there is no altar, there are no sacrifices and there is no access to God. Each tribe, through their leader's offering, was saying they knew they needed the altar and were dedicating themselves to following God's prescribed method of keeping right in His sight.
Israel was dedicating themselves to what would be happening at the altar. But in 2009 A.D. I need to make sure I am dedicated to what has already happened on the altar of the cross of Calvary; The sacrifice I could not make to pay my price for transgressing the law I could not keep. My offering of dedication for the altar isn't grain or gold, bulls or goats. It can be nothing less than my all.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Numbers 5-6; Psalm 22; Acts 26
Psalm 22:22
I will declare Your name to my brethren;
In the midst of the assembly I will praise You.
I really love my church. But I've been out of town the last two weekends. And although I can still listen to the sermons when they get put up on the web site, it's not the same as being there. And the online audio doesn't include the singing either. So I am VERY excited about this coming Sunday. Not only will I be able to worship with my church family. It's my week to sing!
What a privilege to help lead in worship. I will be a part of making this verse a reality. We will be declaring His name to our brethren. We will be praising God in the midst of the assembly. How goose-pimply awesome is that?! Did I mention how excited I am about being in church this Sunday?
I will declare Your name to my brethren;
In the midst of the assembly I will praise You.
I really love my church. But I've been out of town the last two weekends. And although I can still listen to the sermons when they get put up on the web site, it's not the same as being there. And the online audio doesn't include the singing either. So I am VERY excited about this coming Sunday. Not only will I be able to worship with my church family. It's my week to sing!
What a privilege to help lead in worship. I will be a part of making this verse a reality. We will be declaring His name to our brethren. We will be praising God in the midst of the assembly. How goose-pimply awesome is that?! Did I mention how excited I am about being in church this Sunday?
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Numbers 3-4; Acts 25
Acts 25:27
For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to specify the charges against him.
Why didn't it seem unreasonable to hold Paul as a prisoner in the first place if there were no specific charges against him? Perhaps Festus didn't feel the need to justify holding Paul until Paul appealed to a higher authority, Caesar. Once Paul did that, it forced Festus to have some accountability, a justification for Paul's imprisonment.
It's very easy for me to rationalize to myself the decissions I make. But if I involve others, if I become accountable, if I allow brothers and sisters to reason through the process with me, it makes it far less likely that I will be able to hide my own self-serving motives. I need to do a far better job of being open and transparent.
For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to specify the charges against him.
Why didn't it seem unreasonable to hold Paul as a prisoner in the first place if there were no specific charges against him? Perhaps Festus didn't feel the need to justify holding Paul until Paul appealed to a higher authority, Caesar. Once Paul did that, it forced Festus to have some accountability, a justification for Paul's imprisonment.
It's very easy for me to rationalize to myself the decissions I make. But if I involve others, if I become accountable, if I allow brothers and sisters to reason through the process with me, it makes it far less likely that I will be able to hide my own self-serving motives. I need to do a far better job of being open and transparent.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Number 1-2; Acts 24
Acts 24:24-27
Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him. When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison.
I'm sure Paul was well aware over these two years of talking with Felix he could secure his freedom with a bribe. But instead he stayed imprisoned for over two years and used these frequent talks to witness to Felix. Though Felix had fear as Paul spoke of the judgement to come, he pushed those fears aside and placed either money from Paul or approval from the Jews as a higher priority over getting right with God. I dare say Paul had much more peace and freedom as a prisoner than Felix did as a "powerful" governor.
Do I use my "imprisonments" as opportunities to do something God may want me to do in those situations? Or do I seek my own comfort and look for the easy way to "bribe" myself out of the situation? Am I keeping my priorities in line? What's at the top of my list? Power? Money? Comfort? Obedience? Righteousness?
Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him. When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison.
I'm sure Paul was well aware over these two years of talking with Felix he could secure his freedom with a bribe. But instead he stayed imprisoned for over two years and used these frequent talks to witness to Felix. Though Felix had fear as Paul spoke of the judgement to come, he pushed those fears aside and placed either money from Paul or approval from the Jews as a higher priority over getting right with God. I dare say Paul had much more peace and freedom as a prisoner than Felix did as a "powerful" governor.
Do I use my "imprisonments" as opportunities to do something God may want me to do in those situations? Or do I seek my own comfort and look for the easy way to "bribe" myself out of the situation? Am I keeping my priorities in line? What's at the top of my list? Power? Money? Comfort? Obedience? Righteousness?
Monday, February 16, 2009
Leviticus 26-27; Acts 23
Leviticus 26:3+, 14-15+, 40a & 42a
If you walk in My statutes and keep My commandments, and perform them, I will...
But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments, and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform all My commandments, but break My covenant, I will...
But if they confess their iniquity...then I will remember My covenant.
God spells out some of the many blessings He will pour out on His people if they obey Him. By contrast, He also spells out some of the consequences for disobedience. The interesting thing I think is that there are progressions of consequences. Interspersed are these little phrases of "if after this you still don't obey, then..." kind of comments. The consequences seem as much about waking the people up as they are punishment for disobedience. God will patiently give them opportunities to respond and come back to Him. If the people continue to reject God, they have made the choice to walk away from the blessings He desires for them. God has not changed. But their lack of turning back to Him is saying that they want the removal of those blessings, despite the dire consequences. Israel knew Whom they rejected. They had seen miracle after miracle.
How many opportunities does one get? It says if we confess our iniquity, He will remember the covenant. I don't believe anybody is beyond God's reach. But is there a point before death where one's choice to reject God, live in disobedience and harden their heart toward Him is honored? Would God force an eternity spent with Him in heaven upon somebody when it is clear by the way that they lived here on earth that that was the furthest thing from what they wanted? Call it "fire insurance salvation" if you will, a "confession of faith" years ago that has little or no relevance to their life now. Somebody I know seems to be riding this dangerous fence. Other than continuing to pray for them and remind them of what is right and true I'm out of options. It saddend me greatly.
If you walk in My statutes and keep My commandments, and perform them, I will...
But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments, and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform all My commandments, but break My covenant, I will...
But if they confess their iniquity...then I will remember My covenant.
God spells out some of the many blessings He will pour out on His people if they obey Him. By contrast, He also spells out some of the consequences for disobedience. The interesting thing I think is that there are progressions of consequences. Interspersed are these little phrases of "if after this you still don't obey, then..." kind of comments. The consequences seem as much about waking the people up as they are punishment for disobedience. God will patiently give them opportunities to respond and come back to Him. If the people continue to reject God, they have made the choice to walk away from the blessings He desires for them. God has not changed. But their lack of turning back to Him is saying that they want the removal of those blessings, despite the dire consequences. Israel knew Whom they rejected. They had seen miracle after miracle.
How many opportunities does one get? It says if we confess our iniquity, He will remember the covenant. I don't believe anybody is beyond God's reach. But is there a point before death where one's choice to reject God, live in disobedience and harden their heart toward Him is honored? Would God force an eternity spent with Him in heaven upon somebody when it is clear by the way that they lived here on earth that that was the furthest thing from what they wanted? Call it "fire insurance salvation" if you will, a "confession of faith" years ago that has little or no relevance to their life now. Somebody I know seems to be riding this dangerous fence. Other than continuing to pray for them and remind them of what is right and true I'm out of options. It saddend me greatly.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Leviticus 25; Psalm 25-26; Acts 22
Leviticus 25:35-38
If any of your people become poor and unable to support themselves, you must help them, just as you are supposed to help foreigners who live among you. Don't take advantage of them by charging any kind of interest or selling them food for profit. Instead, honor Me by letting them stay where they now live. Remember--I am the LORD your God! I rescued you from Egypt and gave you the land of Canaan, so that I would be your God.
Caring for people in need, the poor among us, is an act of honoring God. This says "you MUST help them." It doesn't talk about making sure their poverty wasn't a result of their own carelessness or having some kind of measurement to prioritize the level of how much somebody deserves help. Just do it. I know there has to be some Godly wisdom in how we do this. Need is everywhere. But still, don't you think we should put more effort into being generous and trusting God with the outcome rather than spending so much time evaluating every little detail resulting in needs we could have been met aren't being taken care of?
And to make the point, God reminds them of what He has done for them, derserving of it or not. He rescued them and gave them the land. Remember from the other day, everything is the Lords anyway. When I give to meet a need I'm giving His money or stuff anyway. What an opportunity to be His instrument for helping others. Man I wish I had more money to give away.
If any of your people become poor and unable to support themselves, you must help them, just as you are supposed to help foreigners who live among you. Don't take advantage of them by charging any kind of interest or selling them food for profit. Instead, honor Me by letting them stay where they now live. Remember--I am the LORD your God! I rescued you from Egypt and gave you the land of Canaan, so that I would be your God.
Caring for people in need, the poor among us, is an act of honoring God. This says "you MUST help them." It doesn't talk about making sure their poverty wasn't a result of their own carelessness or having some kind of measurement to prioritize the level of how much somebody deserves help. Just do it. I know there has to be some Godly wisdom in how we do this. Need is everywhere. But still, don't you think we should put more effort into being generous and trusting God with the outcome rather than spending so much time evaluating every little detail resulting in needs we could have been met aren't being taken care of?
And to make the point, God reminds them of what He has done for them, derserving of it or not. He rescued them and gave them the land. Remember from the other day, everything is the Lords anyway. When I give to meet a need I'm giving His money or stuff anyway. What an opportunity to be His instrument for helping others. Man I wish I had more money to give away.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Leviticus 23-24; Psalm 24; Acts 21
Palm 24:1
The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.
I'm really working on having the attitude that nothing really is mine. It's all God's and I'm merely a caretaker. But it goes even deeper than just the things I have. I'm not even my own. I belong to Him. It is so easy to start thinking I'm smart and able to take control of a situation or do things in my own limited wisdom and strength that will gaurentee a certain outcome. But the reality is I don't really control anything except my will.
At first glance in many ways that seems terrifying, not to have any control. I know people who feel like they have no control in their lives and they seem almost paralyzed by fear. Every choice, every bit of bad news is just an opportunity to have something more to worry about. But my guess is they really haven't yielded to accepting that God is in control.
Yielding to God and giving up trying to control brings so much peace. This may sound paradoxical, but in these past few months I have never felt more freedom as I strive to be a slave to Christ. I don't have fear of failure because He will equip me to follow His will. I don't worry about stumbling because I know He is there to pick me up and love me no matter what. And I don't have to be afraid of not being perfect because His love letter to us, The Bible, is full of how He's used flawed people throughout history to bring glory to Him and accomplish His plan.
The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.
I'm really working on having the attitude that nothing really is mine. It's all God's and I'm merely a caretaker. But it goes even deeper than just the things I have. I'm not even my own. I belong to Him. It is so easy to start thinking I'm smart and able to take control of a situation or do things in my own limited wisdom and strength that will gaurentee a certain outcome. But the reality is I don't really control anything except my will.
At first glance in many ways that seems terrifying, not to have any control. I know people who feel like they have no control in their lives and they seem almost paralyzed by fear. Every choice, every bit of bad news is just an opportunity to have something more to worry about. But my guess is they really haven't yielded to accepting that God is in control.
Yielding to God and giving up trying to control brings so much peace. This may sound paradoxical, but in these past few months I have never felt more freedom as I strive to be a slave to Christ. I don't have fear of failure because He will equip me to follow His will. I don't worry about stumbling because I know He is there to pick me up and love me no matter what. And I don't have to be afraid of not being perfect because His love letter to us, The Bible, is full of how He's used flawed people throughout history to bring glory to Him and accomplish His plan.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Leviticus 20-22; Acts 20
Acts 20:32-35
And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. I have coveted no one's silver or gold or clothes. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me. In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Paul would have made a terrible televangelist, don't you think? He talks about working with his own hands to meet his and other people's needs. He didn't covet or desire gold, silver or fine clothes. And shouldn't he have used that "more blessed to give..." quote from Jesus the way some modern preachers do? Isn't that supposed to guilt people into giving to the ministry of the preacher? How could Paul have ever gotten a TV program with such a backwards approach?
I have nothing against a ministry telling people they have a financial need. There are so many good ones out there that are having quite an impact and could do even more with additional resources. And I really respect individuals when they humbly express needs they may have. Maybe it's because I do enjoy giving. Knowing about needs creates an opportunity for me to give. And it's one way of being the body to one another. But at times it is frustrating, wishing I had so much more available to give.
Of course Paul's goal wasn't personal comfort, or fame and fortune. And monetery giving wasn't really the point. He wanted to proclaim Christ and serve The Lord with his life. And he led by example, worked hard, and cared for the needs of others. He embodied the blessedness that came from giving rather than receiving. Earlier in this chapter he even talks about serving with humility, many tears and trials, and holding nothing back. You can't get much more giving than that. Use what you have, everything that you have, to build up the body as well as increase the number of those who share in His inheritance for us.
And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. I have coveted no one's silver or gold or clothes. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me. In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Paul would have made a terrible televangelist, don't you think? He talks about working with his own hands to meet his and other people's needs. He didn't covet or desire gold, silver or fine clothes. And shouldn't he have used that "more blessed to give..." quote from Jesus the way some modern preachers do? Isn't that supposed to guilt people into giving to the ministry of the preacher? How could Paul have ever gotten a TV program with such a backwards approach?
I have nothing against a ministry telling people they have a financial need. There are so many good ones out there that are having quite an impact and could do even more with additional resources. And I really respect individuals when they humbly express needs they may have. Maybe it's because I do enjoy giving. Knowing about needs creates an opportunity for me to give. And it's one way of being the body to one another. But at times it is frustrating, wishing I had so much more available to give.
Of course Paul's goal wasn't personal comfort, or fame and fortune. And monetery giving wasn't really the point. He wanted to proclaim Christ and serve The Lord with his life. And he led by example, worked hard, and cared for the needs of others. He embodied the blessedness that came from giving rather than receiving. Earlier in this chapter he even talks about serving with humility, many tears and trials, and holding nothing back. You can't get much more giving than that. Use what you have, everything that you have, to build up the body as well as increase the number of those who share in His inheritance for us.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Leviticus 18-19; Psalm 13; Acts 19
Acts 19:24-27
A silversmith named Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought in no little business for the craftsmen. He called them together, along with the workmen in related trades, and said: "Men, you know we receive a good income from this business. And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all. There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited, and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty."
Was Demetrius' god really Artemis? I don't think so. It was the money he was making, the business that was being threatened by Paul preaching the good news of Jesus. Surely Demetrius must have known what Paul and the others of The Way were teaching. Did he really evaluate it and decided worshipping the gods he created with his own hands made more sense? Was he just so in love with the money he was making that he was unable to choose Christ over his profits? And then Demetrius says Paul was the one leading the people astray.
Today is no different. It really is a messed up, upside down world we live in. Turning people to truth, holding firm to faith in Christ and proclaiming the truth that He is The Only Way is seen as closed mindedness. Trying to live up to Biblical values and thinking there ought to be certain moral standards means you are just out of touch with the real world. And selling out principles to make a quick buck or save on your taxes is seen as being resourceful rather than wrong.
How do I respond when I hear truth that, if I act properly towards, will force real change in my life or cause me to lose something I've come to value? Is my first response to bend my knee and obey? Or do I rationalize why I shouldn't change and rally others to see it my way?
A silversmith named Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought in no little business for the craftsmen. He called them together, along with the workmen in related trades, and said: "Men, you know we receive a good income from this business. And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all. There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited, and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty."
Was Demetrius' god really Artemis? I don't think so. It was the money he was making, the business that was being threatened by Paul preaching the good news of Jesus. Surely Demetrius must have known what Paul and the others of The Way were teaching. Did he really evaluate it and decided worshipping the gods he created with his own hands made more sense? Was he just so in love with the money he was making that he was unable to choose Christ over his profits? And then Demetrius says Paul was the one leading the people astray.
Today is no different. It really is a messed up, upside down world we live in. Turning people to truth, holding firm to faith in Christ and proclaiming the truth that He is The Only Way is seen as closed mindedness. Trying to live up to Biblical values and thinking there ought to be certain moral standards means you are just out of touch with the real world. And selling out principles to make a quick buck or save on your taxes is seen as being resourceful rather than wrong.
How do I respond when I hear truth that, if I act properly towards, will force real change in my life or cause me to lose something I've come to value? Is my first response to bend my knee and obey? Or do I rationalize why I shouldn't change and rally others to see it my way?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Leviticus 15-17; Acts 18
Acts 18:24-28
Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John. So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.
What prompted Apollos to come to Ephesus? Did God speak to him? I wonder if three is an untold story behind this. Had he heard that Paul had been there and he wanted to meet him? By the time Apollos got to Ephesus, Paul was already gone. But Aquila and Priscilla had been left there, perhaps for the very purpose of being able to further explain "the way of God" to Apollos. He had already been "accurately" teaching the things of God. And being "mighty in the scriptures" and eloquent, he was boldly proclaiming what he knew. A&P heard him in the synagogue and explained even further the things of God. Apollos became a very valuable instrument for spreading the gospel of Jesus, especially among the Jews because his knowledge allowed him to use the Old Testament scriptures to clearly show that Jesus is the Christ. (Though I don't usually do much commentary reading with my daily journal, I did find it interesting today in looking this up, that some have thought Apollos may have been the writer of the book of Hebrews.)
What a high compliment it would be to be called, "mighty in the Scriptures" like Apollos. He knew what he knew. And not only did he have the knowledge, he was bold and accurate in teaching it to others. "Mighty" is a bit beyond my own understanding and knowledge. But am I fervent and bold in proclaiming what I do know and possess? Even Apollos needed to learn more. But that didn't keep him from teaching that which he did know. I've got to beat back the voice inside that tells me since I don't have all the answers I shouldn't ever offer any.
Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John. So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.
What prompted Apollos to come to Ephesus? Did God speak to him? I wonder if three is an untold story behind this. Had he heard that Paul had been there and he wanted to meet him? By the time Apollos got to Ephesus, Paul was already gone. But Aquila and Priscilla had been left there, perhaps for the very purpose of being able to further explain "the way of God" to Apollos. He had already been "accurately" teaching the things of God. And being "mighty in the scriptures" and eloquent, he was boldly proclaiming what he knew. A&P heard him in the synagogue and explained even further the things of God. Apollos became a very valuable instrument for spreading the gospel of Jesus, especially among the Jews because his knowledge allowed him to use the Old Testament scriptures to clearly show that Jesus is the Christ. (Though I don't usually do much commentary reading with my daily journal, I did find it interesting today in looking this up, that some have thought Apollos may have been the writer of the book of Hebrews.)
What a high compliment it would be to be called, "mighty in the Scriptures" like Apollos. He knew what he knew. And not only did he have the knowledge, he was bold and accurate in teaching it to others. "Mighty" is a bit beyond my own understanding and knowledge. But am I fervent and bold in proclaiming what I do know and possess? Even Apollos needed to learn more. But that didn't keep him from teaching that which he did know. I've got to beat back the voice inside that tells me since I don't have all the answers I shouldn't ever offer any.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Leviticus 13-14; Acts 17
Acts 17:16-17
Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols. Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there.
What am I doing when I see that my city is given over to idols? Paul's spirit was provoked within him. He was prompted to action. He "reasoned" in the synagogue and daily in the marketplace. It wasn't like he just spewed forth his preaching in an irrational manner. He could clearly communicate what he believed and why in a logical and methodical way.
Also, it doesn't seem like he had a plan as far as to whom he was talking. He didn't seem to say to himself, "Oh, I've got to make sure I knock on this person's door or get the ear of that merchant." It was whom ever "happened to be there." In God's providence, I'm sure no one just "happened to be there" by random chance. The people I come across daily as I go about my business, the ones that just "happen to be there" are the ones I need to have my eyes open for. God has made my life intersect with theirs. I need to be provoked as well as ready and able to reason with them.
Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols. Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there.
What am I doing when I see that my city is given over to idols? Paul's spirit was provoked within him. He was prompted to action. He "reasoned" in the synagogue and daily in the marketplace. It wasn't like he just spewed forth his preaching in an irrational manner. He could clearly communicate what he believed and why in a logical and methodical way.
Also, it doesn't seem like he had a plan as far as to whom he was talking. He didn't seem to say to himself, "Oh, I've got to make sure I knock on this person's door or get the ear of that merchant." It was whom ever "happened to be there." In God's providence, I'm sure no one just "happened to be there" by random chance. The people I come across daily as I go about my business, the ones that just "happen to be there" are the ones I need to have my eyes open for. God has made my life intersect with theirs. I need to be provoked as well as ready and able to reason with them.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Leviticus 10-12; Acts 16
Leviticus 10:1-2
Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.
I wonder what these two sons of Aaron were thinking or trying to do? I get that The Lord didn't command them to do whatever it was they did. Though as I've read all these "regulations" and commands for all the priestly duties, I'm not sure I would really have a clue what one is or is not supposed to do, or how to do things properly. After all, this is all new stuff to them. Doesn't this seem like a bit of an over reaction to devour these guys with fire and kill them? I've got to assume, by the use of the word profane, that they were knowingly taking the sacred things and showing some kind of disregard or contempt for them in a purposed misuse. Though there are many instances in the Bible where this kind of profanity of the holy happens and there was no instant death.
Do I get too casual with God? How have I become comfortable to the point that I treat "holy" things with profanity rather than with reverence?
Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.
I wonder what these two sons of Aaron were thinking or trying to do? I get that The Lord didn't command them to do whatever it was they did. Though as I've read all these "regulations" and commands for all the priestly duties, I'm not sure I would really have a clue what one is or is not supposed to do, or how to do things properly. After all, this is all new stuff to them. Doesn't this seem like a bit of an over reaction to devour these guys with fire and kill them? I've got to assume, by the use of the word profane, that they were knowingly taking the sacred things and showing some kind of disregard or contempt for them in a purposed misuse. Though there are many instances in the Bible where this kind of profanity of the holy happens and there was no instant death.
Do I get too casual with God? How have I become comfortable to the point that I treat "holy" things with profanity rather than with reverence?
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Leviticus 7-9; Acts 15
Acts 15:8-11
God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are
The Gentile converts weren't following all the rules, like circumcision. So the Jews weren't willing to really accept them. But Peter, "What God had cleansed, no longer consider unholy", sheet dream Peter, knew God was the God of all who would follow Him. Peter who knew firsthand the forgiveness of Jesus when he denied Him. He understood God grace was nothing to be earned through just doing the right things. It was a matter of faith in what Christ has done.
The older I get, the less black and white I see certain things. I'm not talking about the big issues that are clearly against what the Bible teaches. But secondary things, man made rules, and personal preferences just seem so much less important. I need to keep reminding myself that if God can grant grace to me in so many areas, one of the best ways for me to reflect Him is to be just as graceful towards others with whom I may not agree on some matters. I have been released from trying to bear the weight of the law. Who am I to impose my own laws on my brothers and sisters.
God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are
The Gentile converts weren't following all the rules, like circumcision. So the Jews weren't willing to really accept them. But Peter, "What God had cleansed, no longer consider unholy", sheet dream Peter, knew God was the God of all who would follow Him. Peter who knew firsthand the forgiveness of Jesus when he denied Him. He understood God grace was nothing to be earned through just doing the right things. It was a matter of faith in what Christ has done.
The older I get, the less black and white I see certain things. I'm not talking about the big issues that are clearly against what the Bible teaches. But secondary things, man made rules, and personal preferences just seem so much less important. I need to keep reminding myself that if God can grant grace to me in so many areas, one of the best ways for me to reflect Him is to be just as graceful towards others with whom I may not agree on some matters. I have been released from trying to bear the weight of the law. Who am I to impose my own laws on my brothers and sisters.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Leviticus 4-6; Acts 14
Leviticus 4:27-28
If a member of the community sins unintentionally and does what is forbidden in any of the Lord's commands, he is guilty. When he is made aware of the sin he committed, he must bring his offering for the sin he committed, a female goat without defect.
With the exception of the specific animal being offered, sentences like these appear in this passage for the priest, the entire community and a leader as well. Sin is a very serious matter, even if committed unintentionally. These offerings, this attonement cost something. Not just the value of the offering itself. But it cost some pride in having to make such a public statement of going to the Tent of Meeting with your offering.
These verses also show that they were a connected community. There was accountability and an intent to keep pure and not let sins just slip by. They were responsible for one another. That kind of community almost seems anti-American because ours is a culture of individualism and it's impolite to get into other people's business.
I'm pretty good at being a lone ranger and keeping the things going on in my life to myself. But that doesn't really seem to be the design for God's people. I'll have to work on becoming more open and transparent.
If a member of the community sins unintentionally and does what is forbidden in any of the Lord's commands, he is guilty. When he is made aware of the sin he committed, he must bring his offering for the sin he committed, a female goat without defect.
With the exception of the specific animal being offered, sentences like these appear in this passage for the priest, the entire community and a leader as well. Sin is a very serious matter, even if committed unintentionally. These offerings, this attonement cost something. Not just the value of the offering itself. But it cost some pride in having to make such a public statement of going to the Tent of Meeting with your offering.
These verses also show that they were a connected community. There was accountability and an intent to keep pure and not let sins just slip by. They were responsible for one another. That kind of community almost seems anti-American because ours is a culture of individualism and it's impolite to get into other people's business.
I'm pretty good at being a lone ranger and keeping the things going on in my life to myself. But that doesn't really seem to be the design for God's people. I'll have to work on becoming more open and transparent.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Leviticus 1-3; Acts 13
Acts 13:46
Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, "It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles."
A week before this, Paul had done a brief recap of the history of Israel in the synagogue. In doing so, he also showed how Jesus fulfilled the prophets writings concerning the coming Savior. When Paul and Barnabas left the synagogue, the Gentiles outside begged that Paul would preach these words again to them next Sabbath. So, next week almost the entire city shows up. The crowd Paul drew angered the Jews. That is when the above verse happens.
Jesus, the Promised One, didn't reject His people, the chosen people through which the whole world would be blessed. They rejected Him. The one thing they had longed for, prayed for, begged for all these centuries had happened. The Deliverer had come and they rejected Him. After studying the scriptures how could the learned, religious Jews have missed it? And in this rejecting, it wasn't Jesus who said they were unworthy. He would welcome any who follow Him. They chose not to accept and declared themselves unworthy of the everlasting life. In the event that the chosen people can not fulfill their obligations, the first runners up will take over. That would be the Gentiles.
Seriously though, do I ever get that attitude that I'm entitled to God favor over those who are perhaps weren't raised in a Christian home or haven't been Christians for very long? Do I get more concerned about having things fit my plans rather than making sure I'm following His plan? Am I rejecting things I don't want to hear, thereby deeming myself unworthy of God's blessings and unusable?
Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, "It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles."
A week before this, Paul had done a brief recap of the history of Israel in the synagogue. In doing so, he also showed how Jesus fulfilled the prophets writings concerning the coming Savior. When Paul and Barnabas left the synagogue, the Gentiles outside begged that Paul would preach these words again to them next Sabbath. So, next week almost the entire city shows up. The crowd Paul drew angered the Jews. That is when the above verse happens.
Jesus, the Promised One, didn't reject His people, the chosen people through which the whole world would be blessed. They rejected Him. The one thing they had longed for, prayed for, begged for all these centuries had happened. The Deliverer had come and they rejected Him. After studying the scriptures how could the learned, religious Jews have missed it? And in this rejecting, it wasn't Jesus who said they were unworthy. He would welcome any who follow Him. They chose not to accept and declared themselves unworthy of the everlasting life. In the event that the chosen people can not fulfill their obligations, the first runners up will take over. That would be the Gentiles.
Seriously though, do I ever get that attitude that I'm entitled to God favor over those who are perhaps weren't raised in a Christian home or haven't been Christians for very long? Do I get more concerned about having things fit my plans rather than making sure I'm following His plan? Am I rejecting things I don't want to hear, thereby deeming myself unworthy of God's blessings and unusable?
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Exodus 39-40; Psalm 15; Acts 12
Exodus 40:35
And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of meeting, because the cloud rested above it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.
I'm certain this isn't what it means when it says the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. But reading this just made this thought enter my mind so bear with me. Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle because God's presence filled it.
As a Christian, God's dwelling, the place where His Spirit resides, is in me. If He fills me, I cannot enter because there is not room. I must be emptied of myself, my own desires, my own pride, my selfishness. For how can God fill me if I haven't made room for Him?
And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of meeting, because the cloud rested above it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.
I'm certain this isn't what it means when it says the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. But reading this just made this thought enter my mind so bear with me. Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle because God's presence filled it.
As a Christian, God's dwelling, the place where His Spirit resides, is in me. If He fills me, I cannot enter because there is not room. I must be emptied of myself, my own desires, my own pride, my selfishness. For how can God fill me if I haven't made room for Him?
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Exodus 37-38; Psalm 19; Acts 11
Psalm 19:12-14
Who can understand his errors?
Cleanse me from secret faults.
Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins;
Let them not have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
And I shall be innocent of great transgression.
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.
This Psalm starts by talking about the glory of the Lord. Then it leads into how pure and perfect God's law and commands are, how His judgements are righteous and true. Finally it ends with these verses.
There are sins, these "secret faults", that I commit of which I may not even be aware. Or they are those heat of the moment reactions that just burst forth from my sinful human nature. I need to remember to confess and be cleansed from those. The other sins are "presumptive" ones. I willfully and deliberately commit them. I have either presumed that God will forgive me anyway. Or maybe, since the prayer here asks that this type of sin doesn't have dominion, this sin is a habit that I am too attached to or feel too weak to break so I presume God would understand my weakness in that area.
But in the end the Psalm makes it clear that God is my rock, unfaltering, unshakable, solid and firm, as well as my Redeemer, the One who will free me from the hold these sins have on me. But I need to keep my outward actions, the words of my mouth, and my inner focus and attitude, the meditations of my heart, completely devoted to this awesome, glorious God.
Who can understand his errors?
Cleanse me from secret faults.
Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins;
Let them not have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
And I shall be innocent of great transgression.
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.
This Psalm starts by talking about the glory of the Lord. Then it leads into how pure and perfect God's law and commands are, how His judgements are righteous and true. Finally it ends with these verses.
There are sins, these "secret faults", that I commit of which I may not even be aware. Or they are those heat of the moment reactions that just burst forth from my sinful human nature. I need to remember to confess and be cleansed from those. The other sins are "presumptive" ones. I willfully and deliberately commit them. I have either presumed that God will forgive me anyway. Or maybe, since the prayer here asks that this type of sin doesn't have dominion, this sin is a habit that I am too attached to or feel too weak to break so I presume God would understand my weakness in that area.
But in the end the Psalm makes it clear that God is my rock, unfaltering, unshakable, solid and firm, as well as my Redeemer, the One who will free me from the hold these sins have on me. But I need to keep my outward actions, the words of my mouth, and my inner focus and attitude, the meditations of my heart, completely devoted to this awesome, glorious God.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Exodus 35-36; Acts 10
Exodus 36:2-7
Then Moses called Bezalel and Aholiab, and every gifted artisan in whose heart the LORD had put wisdom, everyone whose heart was stirred, to come and do the work. And they received from Moses all the offering which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of making the sanctuary. So they continued bringing to him freewill offerings every morning. Then all the craftsmen who were doing all the work of the sanctuary came, each from the work he was doing, and they spoke to Moses, saying, “The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work which the LORD commanded us to do.”
So Moses gave a commandment, and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, “Let neither man nor woman do any more work for the offering of the sanctuary.” And the people were restrained from bringing, for the material they had was sufficient for all the work to be done—indeed too much.
These verses tucked in the middle of all the (sort of boring) details for building the tabernacle and holy garments hold a really special place in my heart. I discovered them a couple or so years ago when my church was going through a very rough period. There were issues dealing with our pastor, some had distrust of our leadership, we hadn't come close to our budgeted giving and I'm sure there were a hundred other negative things going on of which I wasn't even aware. But when I read these verses, especially verses 6 & 7, back then, I started praying them for my church.
All Moses did was say God wants us to take an offering so we can do this thing God has called us to. If you are willing, pitch in. The passage I read doesn't even say everybody brought an offering. It merely says those whose hearts were stirred, leaving me to believe there were some hearts unstirred. And the offerings came and they came and they came, every morning. Hearts were so willing that Moses had to issue an order not to bring any more. "People were restrained from bringing." I love that! They didn't have to be compelled or guilted into giving. Their giving had to be held back.
Now my church has just recently kicked off a capital fund program and is going to be building a sanctuary. We have a great pastor who is proclaiming The Word in boldness. Our church body is much more healthy and less fractured. The total of giving to and through our church last year was a huge, mind-blowing amount. Praise God hearts are being stirred and that He is ever faithful.
But I still pray these verses. I want the hearts of my church family to continue to be stirred. Sure I pray that more than enough funding will come in to pay for the building. But my prayer is not just so they will give of material goods. My prayer continues to be that my heart, as well as theirs, will be stirred in ways that prompt the continual offering of ourslves for use in building His kingdom. In that giving there can never be too much and no restraint will ever be needed.
Then Moses called Bezalel and Aholiab, and every gifted artisan in whose heart the LORD had put wisdom, everyone whose heart was stirred, to come and do the work. And they received from Moses all the offering which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of making the sanctuary. So they continued bringing to him freewill offerings every morning. Then all the craftsmen who were doing all the work of the sanctuary came, each from the work he was doing, and they spoke to Moses, saying, “The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work which the LORD commanded us to do.”
So Moses gave a commandment, and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, “Let neither man nor woman do any more work for the offering of the sanctuary.” And the people were restrained from bringing, for the material they had was sufficient for all the work to be done—indeed too much.
These verses tucked in the middle of all the (sort of boring) details for building the tabernacle and holy garments hold a really special place in my heart. I discovered them a couple or so years ago when my church was going through a very rough period. There were issues dealing with our pastor, some had distrust of our leadership, we hadn't come close to our budgeted giving and I'm sure there were a hundred other negative things going on of which I wasn't even aware. But when I read these verses, especially verses 6 & 7, back then, I started praying them for my church.
All Moses did was say God wants us to take an offering so we can do this thing God has called us to. If you are willing, pitch in. The passage I read doesn't even say everybody brought an offering. It merely says those whose hearts were stirred, leaving me to believe there were some hearts unstirred. And the offerings came and they came and they came, every morning. Hearts were so willing that Moses had to issue an order not to bring any more. "People were restrained from bringing." I love that! They didn't have to be compelled or guilted into giving. Their giving had to be held back.
Now my church has just recently kicked off a capital fund program and is going to be building a sanctuary. We have a great pastor who is proclaiming The Word in boldness. Our church body is much more healthy and less fractured. The total of giving to and through our church last year was a huge, mind-blowing amount. Praise God hearts are being stirred and that He is ever faithful.
But I still pray these verses. I want the hearts of my church family to continue to be stirred. Sure I pray that more than enough funding will come in to pay for the building. But my prayer is not just so they will give of material goods. My prayer continues to be that my heart, as well as theirs, will be stirred in ways that prompt the continual offering of ourslves for use in building His kingdom. In that giving there can never be too much and no restraint will ever be needed.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Exodus 33-34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
Exodus 33:12-13
One day Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favorably on you.’ If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people.”
Keep in mind that these verses come after I just read that The Lord spoke to Moses in the tabernacle face to face a a man speaks to his friend. Moses clearly trust God and wants to obey and follow His instructions. But I get the sense that Moses is a bit frustrated here. It seems as if he's having an internal battle, wanting to whole-heartedly trust God but also feeling like he needs God to give him a little more info to help shore up his trust or his faith. Is Moses really quoting God to God to try and "force" God into something?
Boy, I know I've prayed that kind of prayer. I am doing, have done or am about to do what I thnink God wants me to. But I don't quite see how it's really going to work. I tell the Lord I know He has a plan and wants what is best for me. But I just need a little more understanding or insight into His plan to keep me from faultering. I tell Him His Word says this or that just like when my kids go, "Dad you said..."
Moses interprets God's looking favorably on him as letting Moses know God's ways, God's plan. But God knew what Moses was really needing was just assurance that God would go with him. It's always easier for my kids to do something "scary" when I'm right there holding their hand, too, even if they don't always know everything that's going on.
One day Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favorably on you.’ If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people.”
Keep in mind that these verses come after I just read that The Lord spoke to Moses in the tabernacle face to face a a man speaks to his friend. Moses clearly trust God and wants to obey and follow His instructions. But I get the sense that Moses is a bit frustrated here. It seems as if he's having an internal battle, wanting to whole-heartedly trust God but also feeling like he needs God to give him a little more info to help shore up his trust or his faith. Is Moses really quoting God to God to try and "force" God into something?
Boy, I know I've prayed that kind of prayer. I am doing, have done or am about to do what I thnink God wants me to. But I don't quite see how it's really going to work. I tell the Lord I know He has a plan and wants what is best for me. But I just need a little more understanding or insight into His plan to keep me from faultering. I tell Him His Word says this or that just like when my kids go, "Dad you said..."
Moses interprets God's looking favorably on him as letting Moses know God's ways, God's plan. But God knew what Moses was really needing was just assurance that God would go with him. It's always easier for my kids to do something "scary" when I'm right there holding their hand, too, even if they don't always know everything that's going on.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Exodus 30-32; Acts 8
Exodus 31:2-3 & 6
See I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,...And I, indeed I, have appointed with him Aholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and I have put wisdom in the hearts of all the gifted artisans, that they may make all that I have commanded you.
God didn't just say, "Here's what you must build for me." He empowered them. He gave them His Spirit and the widom and knowledge needed to carry out the plan. Yes, these men were artisans to begin with. But God took their talents and abilities to another level, for use in fulfilling His purpose. He wanted the finished product to be more than a bunch of individuals creating their interpretation of what He had instructed Moses to make and build. They were united in their understand, by God's Spirit, of what needed to be done and would go about it God's way.
It also says God called Bazalel BY NAME. Wow. What an awesome experience to be called to something for God by name. Just how did that call come to Bazalel? Was it audible? Was Bazalel just going about his life or was he seeking the will of God about something? Or was God saying this to Moses so then Moses would say, "God told me..." Interesting that I've been doing a bit of wondering myself lately about what being called looks like. Just earlier today I was thinking about writing to somebody and asking what their experience of being called was like.
See I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,...And I, indeed I, have appointed with him Aholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and I have put wisdom in the hearts of all the gifted artisans, that they may make all that I have commanded you.
God didn't just say, "Here's what you must build for me." He empowered them. He gave them His Spirit and the widom and knowledge needed to carry out the plan. Yes, these men were artisans to begin with. But God took their talents and abilities to another level, for use in fulfilling His purpose. He wanted the finished product to be more than a bunch of individuals creating their interpretation of what He had instructed Moses to make and build. They were united in their understand, by God's Spirit, of what needed to be done and would go about it God's way.
It also says God called Bazalel BY NAME. Wow. What an awesome experience to be called to something for God by name. Just how did that call come to Bazalel? Was it audible? Was Bazalel just going about his life or was he seeking the will of God about something? Or was God saying this to Moses so then Moses would say, "God told me..." Interesting that I've been doing a bit of wondering myself lately about what being called looks like. Just earlier today I was thinking about writing to somebody and asking what their experience of being called was like.
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