Seeing God as He is transcendent fosters reverence for His immanence.
God is transcendent...He is completely separate from His creation in holiness, in righteousness, in perfection, in His very being. Yet God is also immanent. He is personally involved and interested in our lives and intimately acquainted with our ways. When I meditate upon these truths, I am comforted. When the days grow weary with monotony, I know that God cares about my days for He has called me His own. When I flit about in busyness I remember the God Who is Here. I must be tethered to the moment He has given me and walk with Him in His holiness.
Moses said to the people, "Do not fear, for God has come to test you, that the fear of Him may be before you, that you may not sin." Exodus 20:20
"Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand and marked off the heavens with a span, enclosed the dust of the earth in a measure and weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? Who has measured the Spirit of the Lord, or what man shows him his counsel? Who did He consult and who made Him understand?...Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and are accounted as the dust on the scales; behold He takes up the coastlands like fine dust."
Isaiah 40:12-15
Psalm 139 For You [God] formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother's womb...My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in eh depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."
God is both immanent and transcendent. These two qualities of the Most High cannot be separated. They are a part of Who He is and we must understand as well we can in our finite minds, this fact of God Almight
Sadly,religion separates these two aspects of God's character. Where transcendence reigns-legalism tends to rise. Legalists resort to following rules with focus on outward behavior and appearances rather than God. Those who practice legalism may appear more somberly spiritual than our liberal sisters in Christ, but it is the practice of the Pharisee's, behaving as polished, white sulpechurs. And where immanence reigns-liberal doctrine arise.These steps are framed in the practice of "following the Spirit" and often ignoring the Word, but opens the door to compromise. Each little step of compromise will add up to a leading away from worship of God to worship of the created things. It is slippery slope to apostacy whether it be worship, service, "signs & wonders" or acceptable sins that are "not so bad".
Either practice is unbalanced and focuses on the works of man and his changing standards rather than on the unchanging, immanent, transcendant God of the Universe.
God is both transcendent and immanent and these two characteristics cannot be separated.We must come to Him in reverence for the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom and couple it with the fact that He is our Father in Heaven and has adopted us into His family through His Son, Jesus. We must understand that He is truly interested and involved in our personal lives. Even the monotonous. Even when we become too consumed with busyness.
"The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear Him, and He makes known to them His covenant." Psalm 25:14
Keep God exalted...the Lord is enough! His Word is complete for what we need for life. Know it, know Christ for He is the Word...the living Word of God.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Hope for Humanity
God's invitation is extended to all. It is not a question IF we've been invited, but will we accept? All of God's promises are ours in Christ Jesus-Who through Him and by Him this invitation stands!
Christians have been accused of being exclusive. This is not our doing but God Almighty.
Jesus said, these being God's very words, "I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6
Even so, His invitiation is to all...for His Word is very clear:
"For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him would not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16
God's invitation is for all. He made this plan for humanity before the foundation of the earth. He left the door open for anyone who would walk through then He gave a picture of His kindness and patience with Noah. Noah, for 100 years, worked on the massive ark to float through the worldwide flood to come. The door of the ark was open to anyone who would believe and walk through its passage way into salvation. The warning of the flood was foolishness to humanity because their reasoning was based on no experience with flood. Yet Noah and his family believed and did not perish in foolishness.
God invites mankind to come to Him and receive from Him the gift of life for eternity. It cannot be earned or purchased. Jesus did the work and stated "It is finished." when He gave up His life on the cross, dying in our place. As with any gift, if we attempt to reimburse for it, it is no longer a gift! The only "cost" is for us to lose our pride, realizing our sorry state with out Christ.
God's promises are only to those who receive. There is only One way...and that is through Christ Jesus. The Messiah. Savior of mankind. Son of Man, Son of God. He is the narrow gate that we must enter through to life. And when we enter in to His life, we begin to realize all that we inherit as part of His family.
So, we who belong to Him will receive the prize!
"I [Jesus]will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." Revelation 2:7 This is the tree of life that was available to Adam and Eve if only they would have enjoyed ALL of creation that God had given unto them instead of lusting after the ONE forbidden thing...the tree of knowledge of good and evil. God's divine mercy wanted to protect them and His great kindness did not permit them, after eating of the forbidden tree-which leads death, to then eat from the tree of life in their rebellious, sinful nature.
"...My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one is aable to snatch them out of the Fathers hand. I and the Father are One." John 10:26-30
God's invitation is accessible and welcoming to everyone. The enemy cannot nullify the believers acceptance of Christ, yet he will do everything in his power to make the believer feel as if the invitation has been revoked. If Satan cannot keep a person his next goal is to keep every believer from fully recognizing all that our relationship with Jesus can offer us. We need to step over the threshold into the new life Christ gave us...enter into His banquet hall and enjoy what Christ has given us. This is our Hope, found in Christ Jesus.
Christians have been accused of being exclusive. This is not our doing but God Almighty.
Jesus said, these being God's very words, "I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6
Even so, His invitiation is to all...for His Word is very clear:
"For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him would not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16
God's invitation is for all. He made this plan for humanity before the foundation of the earth. He left the door open for anyone who would walk through then He gave a picture of His kindness and patience with Noah. Noah, for 100 years, worked on the massive ark to float through the worldwide flood to come. The door of the ark was open to anyone who would believe and walk through its passage way into salvation. The warning of the flood was foolishness to humanity because their reasoning was based on no experience with flood. Yet Noah and his family believed and did not perish in foolishness.
God invites mankind to come to Him and receive from Him the gift of life for eternity. It cannot be earned or purchased. Jesus did the work and stated "It is finished." when He gave up His life on the cross, dying in our place. As with any gift, if we attempt to reimburse for it, it is no longer a gift! The only "cost" is for us to lose our pride, realizing our sorry state with out Christ.
God's promises are only to those who receive. There is only One way...and that is through Christ Jesus. The Messiah. Savior of mankind. Son of Man, Son of God. He is the narrow gate that we must enter through to life. And when we enter in to His life, we begin to realize all that we inherit as part of His family.
So, we who belong to Him will receive the prize!
"I [Jesus]will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." Revelation 2:7 This is the tree of life that was available to Adam and Eve if only they would have enjoyed ALL of creation that God had given unto them instead of lusting after the ONE forbidden thing...the tree of knowledge of good and evil. God's divine mercy wanted to protect them and His great kindness did not permit them, after eating of the forbidden tree-which leads death, to then eat from the tree of life in their rebellious, sinful nature.
"...My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one is aable to snatch them out of the Fathers hand. I and the Father are One." John 10:26-30
God's invitation is accessible and welcoming to everyone. The enemy cannot nullify the believers acceptance of Christ, yet he will do everything in his power to make the believer feel as if the invitation has been revoked. If Satan cannot keep a person his next goal is to keep every believer from fully recognizing all that our relationship with Jesus can offer us. We need to step over the threshold into the new life Christ gave us...enter into His banquet hall and enjoy what Christ has given us. This is our Hope, found in Christ Jesus.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Giving
In our culture, we have departed from the Biblical mandate to give. Instead, we have embraced the concept of receiving as ideal and better still, to accumulate possessions being far superior to thinking of others and giving. The once laughable bumper sticker statement, "He who dies with the most toys, wins!" now sadly is a practice of todays world.
Francis Roberts noted: "Giving seems sacrificial only when viewed in the light of what other use you could have made of the money." As we look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, we are given a view to eternity. We see the worth and the blessing of giving and it is little in comparison to what has been done for us, on our behalf, through Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, "Whoever brings blessing will be enriched and one who waters will himself be watered." We are to be stewards of all that God has entrusted us with which not only includes money but the talents and gifts we have. We are to give freely, using these things for it is in God's perfect economy we see that as we scatter, we accumulate. As we give, we receive. To be happy and have joy, we must reach out to others and seek their good, to make them happy.
"Give then, and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, and running over." (paraphrase)
Let us walk worthy in the calling Christ Jesus has called us!
Francis Roberts noted: "Giving seems sacrificial only when viewed in the light of what other use you could have made of the money." As we look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, we are given a view to eternity. We see the worth and the blessing of giving and it is little in comparison to what has been done for us, on our behalf, through Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, "Whoever brings blessing will be enriched and one who waters will himself be watered." We are to be stewards of all that God has entrusted us with which not only includes money but the talents and gifts we have. We are to give freely, using these things for it is in God's perfect economy we see that as we scatter, we accumulate. As we give, we receive. To be happy and have joy, we must reach out to others and seek their good, to make them happy.
"Give then, and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, and running over." (paraphrase)
Let us walk worthy in the calling Christ Jesus has called us!
Saturday, September 3, 2011
"Stream of Providence"
"How pleasant it is to float along the stream of Providence! There is no more blessed way of living than a life of dependence upon a covenant-keeping God. We have no care, for He careth for us; we have no troubles, because we cast our burdens upon the Lord." Spurgeon
Oh to float along on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. To allow God to steer and guide our way as we sorjourn this earth. We no longer need to trust in our "power". We no longer need be tossed about by the winds of culture and change but remain steadfast in the love and care of God while we stream along by His Providence in our lives.
Oh but to trust in Jesus for the whole of our lives.
Oh to float along on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. To allow God to steer and guide our way as we sorjourn this earth. We no longer need to trust in our "power". We no longer need be tossed about by the winds of culture and change but remain steadfast in the love and care of God while we stream along by His Providence in our lives.
Oh but to trust in Jesus for the whole of our lives.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Our Shepherd King
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake." Psalm 23:1-3.
This familiar Psalm is often referred to as the Shepherd's Psalm. The entire psalm addresses what the Shepherd (Jesus) does for His sheep. Isaiah writes: "He will tend His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs in His arms; He will carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those that are with young." (40:11)
Ezekiel writes of IsraEl: "As a shepherd seeks out his flock when he is among his sheep that have been scattered, so will I seek out My sheep, and I will rescue them from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness." (Ezekiel 34:12) A beautiful promise to a nation, a people, that has been so scattered that some of the original tribes are considered "lost". But not to our God! Our Shepherd King. He will seek out, He will rescue, He will gather His flock.
John quotes Jesus: "I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." (10:11) And He did! Over 2,000 years ago, Jesus laid His life down for us; taking our place, receiving the wages of our sin; facing the wrath of a Holy God.
John writes in Revelation: "For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their Shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear." (&:17) Jesus, Who was crucified and died in our place is alive and sitting on the throne! Our Hope. Our Life...all found in Jesus.
Spurgeon elaborates on this picture of our King Jesus as King Shepherd:
"Christ's reign in His church is that of a shepherd king. He has supremacy, but it is the superiority of a wise and tender shepherd over his needy and loving flock;...He rules by the force of love but the energy of His goodness."
"His reign is practical in its character" for He is ""actively engaged in providing for His people and we His people can trust that He will "do everything expected of a shepherd: to guide, to watch over, to preserve, to restore, to tend and to feed."
"His reign is continual in its duration." His eyes never slumber nor sleep.He is always on His throne. "His hands never rest; His heart never ceases to beat with love, and His shoulders are never weary of carrying His people's burdens."
His reign is effectually powerful in its actions...He who stands today representing the interests of His people is very God of very God...Happy are we who belong to such a shepherd, whose humanity communes with us, and whose divinity protects us."
Hallelujah!
This familiar Psalm is often referred to as the Shepherd's Psalm. The entire psalm addresses what the Shepherd (Jesus) does for His sheep. Isaiah writes: "He will tend His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs in His arms; He will carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those that are with young." (40:11)
Ezekiel writes of IsraEl: "As a shepherd seeks out his flock when he is among his sheep that have been scattered, so will I seek out My sheep, and I will rescue them from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness." (Ezekiel 34:12) A beautiful promise to a nation, a people, that has been so scattered that some of the original tribes are considered "lost". But not to our God! Our Shepherd King. He will seek out, He will rescue, He will gather His flock.
John quotes Jesus: "I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." (10:11) And He did! Over 2,000 years ago, Jesus laid His life down for us; taking our place, receiving the wages of our sin; facing the wrath of a Holy God.
John writes in Revelation: "For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their Shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear." (&:17) Jesus, Who was crucified and died in our place is alive and sitting on the throne! Our Hope. Our Life...all found in Jesus.
Spurgeon elaborates on this picture of our King Jesus as King Shepherd:
"Christ's reign in His church is that of a shepherd king. He has supremacy, but it is the superiority of a wise and tender shepherd over his needy and loving flock;...He rules by the force of love but the energy of His goodness."
"His reign is practical in its character" for He is ""actively engaged in providing for His people and we His people can trust that He will "do everything expected of a shepherd: to guide, to watch over, to preserve, to restore, to tend and to feed."
"His reign is continual in its duration." His eyes never slumber nor sleep.He is always on His throne. "His hands never rest; His heart never ceases to beat with love, and His shoulders are never weary of carrying His people's burdens."
His reign is effectually powerful in its actions...He who stands today representing the interests of His people is very God of very God...Happy are we who belong to such a shepherd, whose humanity communes with us, and whose divinity protects us."
Hallelujah!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Jesus says, "Come away..."
Jesus has called us into a wonderful, indescribable privelege...time away with Him. Yet, how often we are neglectful of this unfathomable gift as we scurry about the doings of each day. We grow weary and disheartened. Our futile attempts to winnow away the unnecessary activities in our busy lives leave us weary with the effort.
Oh to sit at His feet, bask in His presence, covered by His glory, a sweet fragrance of Jesus, as time away with Him refreshes us, restores us and renews our strength. Jesus has called us to "come away" with Him to a lonely even desolate place where He is. Free of all distractions so that we may hear Him. But we postpone this time away and eventually forget this needful thing. We miss out on this "better portion" that Mary was commended for while Martha railed about her idleness.
Francis J. Roberts writes, "Weariness shall overtake thee on the smoothest road if it be not the pathway of My ordained will." God's will for our lives is to know Him, love Him, serve Him. Time with the one we love is how we grow to love them even more. As we spend more time with our King, our Lord Jesus, we find that He does indeed lead us beside still waters and to green pastures where He restores our soul. Then we know the pathway that He sets before us and yoked with Him, we find that His burden is not only light but easy-for our great Saviour shoulders it all as we walk with Him. The smooth road we were searching for we find is not for us. But even as we face the difficult climb, we realize that we can indeed do all things in Christ Jesus.
What can we do? What is our part? To make room in our lives for time with Jesus. Yes, His Spirit indwells each of us that belong to Him, we are not forgotten or forsaken, but are we making purposeful time with Him a priority? Are we making room in our lives for solitary time with Christ-making time spent with Him preeminent? I know I sorely lack in this. Many of you, like me, struggle being more able to relate to Martha's attitude toward life than with Mary.
Oh to apprehend the great truth to "rejoice to be granted the privelege so sacred a task, Count it most precious and guard against intrusion of distractions. Nothing is more important in [Jesus' eyes] of all the things you can do for [Him]. Cherish it and cultivate it, live in prayer." Francis J. Roberts
So we are to put down the anxieties of this world and come away with our Beloved Jesus. Trust Him for everything for He knows our needs and is fully able to supply our needs according to His riches. As we spend time and more time with our Lord, we find that anxiety and anxious thoughts fall away. There is no effort on our part...only respond to His call to, "Come away".
Another pearl of wisdom from Francis J. Roberts states, "He who does not habitually commune with Christ alone is almost sure to find true prayer impossible in public." Oh to apprehend the wonderful call of Jesus-"Come away..." In Him is peace and joy and strength for the day. His mercies are new each morning. Throughout the day, He will never leave us nor forsake us. Have we "left Him" in our busyness. Have we forsaken Him?
Oh to cherish and cultivate our time with Him. To answer His call to "Come away". Just think, the King of Kings, the Creator of the Universe, the Almighty God has invited us to "Come away". Today...even now...
Oh to sit at His feet, bask in His presence, covered by His glory, a sweet fragrance of Jesus, as time away with Him refreshes us, restores us and renews our strength. Jesus has called us to "come away" with Him to a lonely even desolate place where He is. Free of all distractions so that we may hear Him. But we postpone this time away and eventually forget this needful thing. We miss out on this "better portion" that Mary was commended for while Martha railed about her idleness.
Francis J. Roberts writes, "Weariness shall overtake thee on the smoothest road if it be not the pathway of My ordained will." God's will for our lives is to know Him, love Him, serve Him. Time with the one we love is how we grow to love them even more. As we spend more time with our King, our Lord Jesus, we find that He does indeed lead us beside still waters and to green pastures where He restores our soul. Then we know the pathway that He sets before us and yoked with Him, we find that His burden is not only light but easy-for our great Saviour shoulders it all as we walk with Him. The smooth road we were searching for we find is not for us. But even as we face the difficult climb, we realize that we can indeed do all things in Christ Jesus.
What can we do? What is our part? To make room in our lives for time with Jesus. Yes, His Spirit indwells each of us that belong to Him, we are not forgotten or forsaken, but are we making purposeful time with Him a priority? Are we making room in our lives for solitary time with Christ-making time spent with Him preeminent? I know I sorely lack in this. Many of you, like me, struggle being more able to relate to Martha's attitude toward life than with Mary.
Oh to apprehend the great truth to "rejoice to be granted the privelege so sacred a task, Count it most precious and guard against intrusion of distractions. Nothing is more important in [Jesus' eyes] of all the things you can do for [Him]. Cherish it and cultivate it, live in prayer." Francis J. Roberts
So we are to put down the anxieties of this world and come away with our Beloved Jesus. Trust Him for everything for He knows our needs and is fully able to supply our needs according to His riches. As we spend time and more time with our Lord, we find that anxiety and anxious thoughts fall away. There is no effort on our part...only respond to His call to, "Come away".
Another pearl of wisdom from Francis J. Roberts states, "He who does not habitually commune with Christ alone is almost sure to find true prayer impossible in public." Oh to apprehend the wonderful call of Jesus-"Come away..." In Him is peace and joy and strength for the day. His mercies are new each morning. Throughout the day, He will never leave us nor forsake us. Have we "left Him" in our busyness. Have we forsaken Him?
Oh to cherish and cultivate our time with Him. To answer His call to "Come away". Just think, the King of Kings, the Creator of the Universe, the Almighty God has invited us to "Come away". Today...even now...
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Vessels of Grace
C.H. Spurgeon wrote:
"Our Lord Jesus is ever giving, and does not for a solitary instant withdraw His hand. As long as there is a vessel of grace not yet full to the brim, the oil shall not be stayed. He is sun ever-shining; He is manna ever falling round the camp; He is a rock in the desert, ever sending out streams of life from His smitten side; the rain of His grace is always dropping; the river of His bounty is ever-flowing, and the well-spring of His love is constantly overflowing. As the King can never die, so His grace can never fail...His mercies are new every morning and fresh every evening."
from May 16th Morning and Evening Daily Readings
I Timothy 6:17
2 Cor. 4:7-11
"Our Lord Jesus is ever giving, and does not for a solitary instant withdraw His hand. As long as there is a vessel of grace not yet full to the brim, the oil shall not be stayed. He is sun ever-shining; He is manna ever falling round the camp; He is a rock in the desert, ever sending out streams of life from His smitten side; the rain of His grace is always dropping; the river of His bounty is ever-flowing, and the well-spring of His love is constantly overflowing. As the King can never die, so His grace can never fail...His mercies are new every morning and fresh every evening."
from May 16th Morning and Evening Daily Readings
I Timothy 6:17
2 Cor. 4:7-11
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Old Patterns...New Woman
During our life before Christ, we lived a life independent of God. We learned patterns of behavior and even "defense mechanisms" to get us through each day or through life. Some of these patterns are very positive and altruistic, most are self-centered and destructive.
As Christians, we know we are declared by God to be new creations in Him. So why do we struggle with our old nature? We know the good we want to do. We know how we are to live. We know God's Word declares who we are in Him yet the battle persists with the old tries to dominate the new. You see, when we by faith come to accept Christ's free gift, we are immediately born-again, new creations BUT our old nature is not suddenly deleted from our being. The old ways and old patterns of our life are still our default setting if we do not walk worthy in the calling of Christ Jesus on our lives.
In many ways it would be grand to press a delete button and have all our old ways erased, yet God in His perfect wisdom, knows us well. He wants us to walk by faith and to cling to Him in dependence, rejecting the independence in which we once lived. He is Sovereign over all, even our past and who we once were. He can redeem beauty from ashes. He can restore what the locusts have eaten. He will use all that is in our lives for our good and His glory. So though covered by the blood of Jesus and forgiven, our past may at times plague us. Do not allow the enemy to use it to accuse you but allow God to use it all.
We must allow God by His Holy Spirit to "clean house". Things of our past won't necessarily be erased but their strength will be dimished. And this "housecleaning" must also include a filling of the things of God. The fruit in our lives will be the Fruit of the Spirit. A beautiful thing to behold and a testimony to the world of God.
We do not want to continue to default to our old ways. This is our old nature and very "natural" to live this way, but this is our sin nature at work. It no longer reigns over us but sin has it's influences. Rather we are now supernatural beings empowered by the Holy Spirit of God to live as saints and holy ones, just as He has declared us to be.
This is not an easy task for we live in these earthen vessels (2 Corinthians 4: 7) holding the treasure within...Christ with us! These earthen vessels are fragile and will one day perish. Yet in our fragility, Christ is glorified for it is by His strength we go on. A modern day picture of earthen vessels is word painted by an author who likened our bodies as cardboard boxes that hold a treasure. What we see is just the packing material and no one really treasures a cardboard box but what is inside. It is the same with our lives. We will one day "discard" these bodies and receive from Christ our new bodies, perfect and without the sin nature!
For now, as earthen vessels, we hold the treasure of the Holy Spirit of God in us. (John 14:16-17, 26) And by Him we can refuse to allow the old patterns and old ways of our life become what we default to without a thought. We must allow the Spirit of God to retrain our hearts and minds. We must not be conformed to the ways of this world but by the Spirit transformed as He renews our minds by His Word. (Romans 12:1-2)
Christ must be central to our lives. The "disciplines" we would be wise to use are the ones which draws us to Him. For instance: prayer, which is communication with God Himself! Study of His Word is how He speaks to us and teaches us and leads us. Memorization of His Word is what keeps us from falling into sin. We are told to bury His Word in our hearts so we will not sin against Him (Psalm 119:9,11). Fellowship with other beleivers so that we can encourage one another and hold one another accountable...no hidden sins. Serving and loving our God by works. Works do not save us but is just evidence of our new life in Christ and Paul tells us that faith without works is dead. Sharing the Gospel not only so others will hear the Good News of God's grace but also to build our faith as we share.
Continue on the journey dear saint! God is able to sustain you. We possess, in Christ Jesus, all we need to live a holy life and a life wholly unto Him.
As Christians, we know we are declared by God to be new creations in Him. So why do we struggle with our old nature? We know the good we want to do. We know how we are to live. We know God's Word declares who we are in Him yet the battle persists with the old tries to dominate the new. You see, when we by faith come to accept Christ's free gift, we are immediately born-again, new creations BUT our old nature is not suddenly deleted from our being. The old ways and old patterns of our life are still our default setting if we do not walk worthy in the calling of Christ Jesus on our lives.
In many ways it would be grand to press a delete button and have all our old ways erased, yet God in His perfect wisdom, knows us well. He wants us to walk by faith and to cling to Him in dependence, rejecting the independence in which we once lived. He is Sovereign over all, even our past and who we once were. He can redeem beauty from ashes. He can restore what the locusts have eaten. He will use all that is in our lives for our good and His glory. So though covered by the blood of Jesus and forgiven, our past may at times plague us. Do not allow the enemy to use it to accuse you but allow God to use it all.
We must allow God by His Holy Spirit to "clean house". Things of our past won't necessarily be erased but their strength will be dimished. And this "housecleaning" must also include a filling of the things of God. The fruit in our lives will be the Fruit of the Spirit. A beautiful thing to behold and a testimony to the world of God.
We do not want to continue to default to our old ways. This is our old nature and very "natural" to live this way, but this is our sin nature at work. It no longer reigns over us but sin has it's influences. Rather we are now supernatural beings empowered by the Holy Spirit of God to live as saints and holy ones, just as He has declared us to be.
This is not an easy task for we live in these earthen vessels (2 Corinthians 4: 7) holding the treasure within...Christ with us! These earthen vessels are fragile and will one day perish. Yet in our fragility, Christ is glorified for it is by His strength we go on. A modern day picture of earthen vessels is word painted by an author who likened our bodies as cardboard boxes that hold a treasure. What we see is just the packing material and no one really treasures a cardboard box but what is inside. It is the same with our lives. We will one day "discard" these bodies and receive from Christ our new bodies, perfect and without the sin nature!
For now, as earthen vessels, we hold the treasure of the Holy Spirit of God in us. (John 14:16-17, 26) And by Him we can refuse to allow the old patterns and old ways of our life become what we default to without a thought. We must allow the Spirit of God to retrain our hearts and minds. We must not be conformed to the ways of this world but by the Spirit transformed as He renews our minds by His Word. (Romans 12:1-2)
Christ must be central to our lives. The "disciplines" we would be wise to use are the ones which draws us to Him. For instance: prayer, which is communication with God Himself! Study of His Word is how He speaks to us and teaches us and leads us. Memorization of His Word is what keeps us from falling into sin. We are told to bury His Word in our hearts so we will not sin against Him (Psalm 119:9,11). Fellowship with other beleivers so that we can encourage one another and hold one another accountable...no hidden sins. Serving and loving our God by works. Works do not save us but is just evidence of our new life in Christ and Paul tells us that faith without works is dead. Sharing the Gospel not only so others will hear the Good News of God's grace but also to build our faith as we share.
Continue on the journey dear saint! God is able to sustain you. We possess, in Christ Jesus, all we need to live a holy life and a life wholly unto Him.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Wrestling
God's Word is Truth and it is full of promises. The following one is one that we must be aware of:
We will wrestle "against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places." Ephesians 6:12 (b) This is a guarantee from Scripture. It is Scriptural truth therefore we must expect it and be prepared. Author of The Bondage Breaker, Neil T. Anderson states,"If we are ignorant of Satan's schemes, we can only come to the conclusion, "Any problems in the mind must either be a chemical imbalance or a flesh pattern."'
Mr. Anderson's point? The enemy can influence us in subtle ways to the point that we are not living in the full victory that Christ purchased for us. We also may not be using His gifts or glorifying His name as we should. Therefore, we must take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ Jesus. If the thought is not true-and we will know it by knowing God's Word-we don't believe it.
One powerful step in taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ is to remember our position in Him. Paul, writing to the Ephesian church elaborates on who we are in Christ beginning in Ephesians 1:3-14- (God's Word is italicized, my comments are not.)
"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Read that slowly...in Christ, we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing because we are united with Him! Everything we need is found in Him. We have not if we ask not. We are His children...ask Him. Come to Him on the basis of who we are in Christ Jesus.
Even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy without fault in His eyes. God chose us! What a wonderful truth. Most all of us have experienced feeling left out, yet the Creator of the Universe, Creator of all things seen and unseen, chose us!
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it have Him great pleasure. God adopted us! We are part of His family, chosen by Him because He wanted to. What does that truth do to you? He wanted you...He wanted me! We are chosen by Him!
So we praise God for the glorious grace He has poured out on us who belong to His dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins. He has showered His kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. Read those words...God poured out his kindness and grace on us, showering us with His love along with wisdom and understanding. And incredibly, He purchased our freedom by His One and Only Son dying in our place! We are free because Christ died for us. How the praises flow with that Truth!
God has now revealed to us His mysterious plan regarding Christ, a plan to fulfill His own good pleasure. And this is the plan: at the right time He will bring everything together under the authority of Christ-everything in heaven and on earth. The mystery, God's own good pleasure, Christ reigns. He will rule over all. He has authority over all His creation. Satan only has limited time and limited power and soon his time will end. God reigns Supreme!
Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for He chose us in advance, and He makes everything work out according to His plan. God's purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God. Knowing that the Jews were God's chosen people, I wanted to convert...but thankfully this good news is spread also to the Gentiles.
And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. Hallelujah!
And when you believe in Christ, He identified you as His own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom He promised long ago. How awesome is THAT? We will stand before God and be identified as His by and through Christ Jesus because we have His Holy Spirit indwelling us.
The Spirit is God's guarantee that He will give us the inheritance He promised and that He has purchased us to be His own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify Him....we are guaranteed entrance to Heaven because of God's Spirit indwelling each one of us. We are sealed for the day of redemption when we are called Home.
Paul continues with a prayer that we should pray for one another and ourselves...
(vs. 18-23) I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope He has given to those He called---His holy people who are His rich and glorious inheritance. Jesus calls us His rich and glorious inheritance! He values us...not because we have done anything but because we belong to Him by believing and receiving His work completed at the cross and His resurrection! How incredible is that statement?
I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe in Him. We are wise to meditate on the character of God...to learn more of Him by time with Him and in His Word. Do a word study on the Names of God which describe His character.
This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead (and we serve this same, powerful God! He has not and does not change!) and seated Him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now He is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else---not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made Him head over all things for the benefit of the church.
And the church is His body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with Himself." We are complete in Christ Jesus. Lacking in nothing...anything else is a lie. Those lies we take captive to the obedience of Christ and cling to the Truth.
We must also remember that God has provided His armor for spiritual warfare. We are told to put it on but nowhere in Scripture have I found where we are to take it off! (Tell me if I am wrong!) Ephesians 6:10-18 describes each piece. Paul's reference is to the Roman soldiers armor. Each piece essential for survival. So, put it on dear one and do not take it off! Learn to use each piece well.
So, we Christians must remember that we can indeed be deceived. We can be influenced and at times oppressed. We may be leading relatively "normal" lives yet experiencing personal and perhaps interpersonal problems for which no cause or solution has been found and we are left thinking there is something wrong with us and why can't we just "do better"? We may also be experiencing physical afflictions for which no cause can be definitively identified. This is where we must know and cling to God's Truth.
Keep walking in the truth dear pilgrim. God's Word is truth...a light to our feet and lamp for our path.
(todays Scripture is from the New Living Translation)
We will wrestle "against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places." Ephesians 6:12 (b) This is a guarantee from Scripture. It is Scriptural truth therefore we must expect it and be prepared. Author of The Bondage Breaker, Neil T. Anderson states,"If we are ignorant of Satan's schemes, we can only come to the conclusion, "Any problems in the mind must either be a chemical imbalance or a flesh pattern."'
Mr. Anderson's point? The enemy can influence us in subtle ways to the point that we are not living in the full victory that Christ purchased for us. We also may not be using His gifts or glorifying His name as we should. Therefore, we must take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ Jesus. If the thought is not true-and we will know it by knowing God's Word-we don't believe it.
One powerful step in taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ is to remember our position in Him. Paul, writing to the Ephesian church elaborates on who we are in Christ beginning in Ephesians 1:3-14- (God's Word is italicized, my comments are not.)
"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Read that slowly...in Christ, we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing because we are united with Him! Everything we need is found in Him. We have not if we ask not. We are His children...ask Him. Come to Him on the basis of who we are in Christ Jesus.
Even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy without fault in His eyes. God chose us! What a wonderful truth. Most all of us have experienced feeling left out, yet the Creator of the Universe, Creator of all things seen and unseen, chose us!
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it have Him great pleasure. God adopted us! We are part of His family, chosen by Him because He wanted to. What does that truth do to you? He wanted you...He wanted me! We are chosen by Him!
So we praise God for the glorious grace He has poured out on us who belong to His dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins. He has showered His kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. Read those words...God poured out his kindness and grace on us, showering us with His love along with wisdom and understanding. And incredibly, He purchased our freedom by His One and Only Son dying in our place! We are free because Christ died for us. How the praises flow with that Truth!
God has now revealed to us His mysterious plan regarding Christ, a plan to fulfill His own good pleasure. And this is the plan: at the right time He will bring everything together under the authority of Christ-everything in heaven and on earth. The mystery, God's own good pleasure, Christ reigns. He will rule over all. He has authority over all His creation. Satan only has limited time and limited power and soon his time will end. God reigns Supreme!
Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for He chose us in advance, and He makes everything work out according to His plan. God's purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God. Knowing that the Jews were God's chosen people, I wanted to convert...but thankfully this good news is spread also to the Gentiles.
And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. Hallelujah!
And when you believe in Christ, He identified you as His own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom He promised long ago. How awesome is THAT? We will stand before God and be identified as His by and through Christ Jesus because we have His Holy Spirit indwelling us.
The Spirit is God's guarantee that He will give us the inheritance He promised and that He has purchased us to be His own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify Him....we are guaranteed entrance to Heaven because of God's Spirit indwelling each one of us. We are sealed for the day of redemption when we are called Home.
Paul continues with a prayer that we should pray for one another and ourselves...
(vs. 18-23) I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope He has given to those He called---His holy people who are His rich and glorious inheritance. Jesus calls us His rich and glorious inheritance! He values us...not because we have done anything but because we belong to Him by believing and receiving His work completed at the cross and His resurrection! How incredible is that statement?
I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe in Him. We are wise to meditate on the character of God...to learn more of Him by time with Him and in His Word. Do a word study on the Names of God which describe His character.
This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead (and we serve this same, powerful God! He has not and does not change!) and seated Him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now He is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else---not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made Him head over all things for the benefit of the church.
And the church is His body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with Himself." We are complete in Christ Jesus. Lacking in nothing...anything else is a lie. Those lies we take captive to the obedience of Christ and cling to the Truth.
We must also remember that God has provided His armor for spiritual warfare. We are told to put it on but nowhere in Scripture have I found where we are to take it off! (Tell me if I am wrong!) Ephesians 6:10-18 describes each piece. Paul's reference is to the Roman soldiers armor. Each piece essential for survival. So, put it on dear one and do not take it off! Learn to use each piece well.
So, we Christians must remember that we can indeed be deceived. We can be influenced and at times oppressed. We may be leading relatively "normal" lives yet experiencing personal and perhaps interpersonal problems for which no cause or solution has been found and we are left thinking there is something wrong with us and why can't we just "do better"? We may also be experiencing physical afflictions for which no cause can be definitively identified. This is where we must know and cling to God's Truth.
Keep walking in the truth dear pilgrim. God's Word is truth...a light to our feet and lamp for our path.
(todays Scripture is from the New Living Translation)
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
The Corridor of Faith
How blessed I have been and am to have such great teaching to help me grow in my walk with Christ. How loved I am that He would be so very patient with me for I seem to be such a slow learner.
Recently I read an author who used an analogy that ministered to me. We know that we are called to walk the narrow way in Christ Jesus. The other ways lead only to eventual misery and certain judgment and destruction. Jesus Himself said He is the Way and the Truth and the Life and that no one comes to (God) the Father except through Him. He is the Only way, yet...
Yet His invitation is inclusive! It is to all who would receive. God sent His only Son (Jesus Christ) that whoever would believe in Him would receive life! An inclusive invitation to an exclusive engagement to those who would believe and receive Him.
The analogy addresses the new life in Christ that we walk in while here on this Earth. We are new creations in Christ Jesus. We are walking the narrow path with eternity in view...our Saviour leading the way. Yet, for now we walk in enemy territory. Belonging to Christ, we are sealed by His Holy Spirit, but the enemy still attempts to influence if not oppress us.
Imagine our walk as if in a large city with skyscrapers looming, making our way a bit dark and dreary yet we walk in the Light and toward He Who is the Light. We walk the way of Christ, keeping our eyes on He who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. As we walk, there are cat calls and distractions from the apartment buildings and alleyways. We may get momentarily distracted by these voices but we can choose to walk on. This is where we must take EVERY thought captive to the obedience of our Lord Jesus.
As we walk, we may get so distracted-especially if we do not take each thought captive because we can become influenced- influenced so much that we stop and tarry, looking toward the voices and listening. We do not want this to become a habit for it is detrimental to us. We may listen long enough to lies that we begin to believe them. And if we become distracted long enough, we may even venture down the alleyways. The allure is to our flesh, to the lust of the eyes. Our pride of life tells us that we can handle a temporary detour. Don't believe it! Though our enemy, the devil and his minions, cannot read our minds for only God is omniscient, the enemy can influence our thoughts. He knows humanitites weaknesses...the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the sinful pride of life and he knows how to tempt each one of us.
So, dear pilgrim, keep walking on with eternity in view, down the corridor of faith. Saints before you traversed this way. You are in good company! Keep your eyes on Jesus and walk worthy of Him. He will never leave you nor forsake you.
I too am on this pilgrimage with you! Stay in the Word. Be obedient to God's commands, taking every thought captive to Him. Stay in prayer and in fellowship with other believers. Receive solid, Biblical teaching and use the gifts you have been given for the glory of God. Don't give the enemy any ground...don't make his day. Do all that you do for the glory of God Almighty!
We must keep walking with our eyes on our Saviour. We must stay on His narrow path. If we stumble, fall, tarry where we shouldn't, we must quickly repent, receive our Lord's forgiveness, take EVERY thought captive to His will and move on toward Him.
Recently I read an author who used an analogy that ministered to me. We know that we are called to walk the narrow way in Christ Jesus. The other ways lead only to eventual misery and certain judgment and destruction. Jesus Himself said He is the Way and the Truth and the Life and that no one comes to (God) the Father except through Him. He is the Only way, yet...
Yet His invitation is inclusive! It is to all who would receive. God sent His only Son (Jesus Christ) that whoever would believe in Him would receive life! An inclusive invitation to an exclusive engagement to those who would believe and receive Him.
The analogy addresses the new life in Christ that we walk in while here on this Earth. We are new creations in Christ Jesus. We are walking the narrow path with eternity in view...our Saviour leading the way. Yet, for now we walk in enemy territory. Belonging to Christ, we are sealed by His Holy Spirit, but the enemy still attempts to influence if not oppress us.
Imagine our walk as if in a large city with skyscrapers looming, making our way a bit dark and dreary yet we walk in the Light and toward He Who is the Light. We walk the way of Christ, keeping our eyes on He who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. As we walk, there are cat calls and distractions from the apartment buildings and alleyways. We may get momentarily distracted by these voices but we can choose to walk on. This is where we must take EVERY thought captive to the obedience of our Lord Jesus.
As we walk, we may get so distracted-especially if we do not take each thought captive because we can become influenced- influenced so much that we stop and tarry, looking toward the voices and listening. We do not want this to become a habit for it is detrimental to us. We may listen long enough to lies that we begin to believe them. And if we become distracted long enough, we may even venture down the alleyways. The allure is to our flesh, to the lust of the eyes. Our pride of life tells us that we can handle a temporary detour. Don't believe it! Though our enemy, the devil and his minions, cannot read our minds for only God is omniscient, the enemy can influence our thoughts. He knows humanitites weaknesses...the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the sinful pride of life and he knows how to tempt each one of us.
So, dear pilgrim, keep walking on with eternity in view, down the corridor of faith. Saints before you traversed this way. You are in good company! Keep your eyes on Jesus and walk worthy of Him. He will never leave you nor forsake you.
I too am on this pilgrimage with you! Stay in the Word. Be obedient to God's commands, taking every thought captive to Him. Stay in prayer and in fellowship with other believers. Receive solid, Biblical teaching and use the gifts you have been given for the glory of God. Don't give the enemy any ground...don't make his day. Do all that you do for the glory of God Almighty!
We must keep walking with our eyes on our Saviour. We must stay on His narrow path. If we stumble, fall, tarry where we shouldn't, we must quickly repent, receive our Lord's forgiveness, take EVERY thought captive to His will and move on toward Him.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Bedrock Remembrance
As the Bible study wrapped up, I was blessed with so many "pearls" of wisdom. They were little thinking points to ponder throughout the days. One such pearl was the statement of "bedrock remembrance". The Hebrews, after facing the flood raged Jordan River and then safely walking through on dry ground, were asked to place stones of remembrance as a testimony throughout the ages of God's faithfulness to His people.
I like the picture of a stones of remembrance, it is good practice for us to remember all God has done for us even if we don't physically place a stone down as the Israelites tribes did. Yet I especially like the idea of bedrock for it speaks to me of a foundational piece of remembrance. The stones of remembrance are good things to have as we walk this earth, the faithfulness that God has shown us throughout our days, but the bedrock remembrance is the foundations that we build our very lives upon. This foundation is none other than Jesus Christ, the God of the Universe. We are to be firmly rooted and grounded in Him. We are to remember that He is our foundation. Our Cornerstone.
What is this bedrock of remembrance? God is the very bedrock of our existence. And this remembrance is the character of our God. God is very predictable in His character for He is unchanging. God is predictable in His character but unpredictable in His activity.And as the chaos of life ensues about us, having this bedrock of remembrance is all the more necessary.
Remembering Who God is helps us to be firmly rooted in our faith. We get to know Him better by the study of His Word. In the Gospel account written by John, we learn that the Word was with God and that the Word was (is) God. The Word?...Jesus Christ, for John tells us that the Word became Flesh. So, as we study the Word, we are learning more about God. He teaches us through His Word. And time in His Word is time with Him.
What are some things the Bible says about God? Here are just a few "I am" statements...
John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
John 1: 10 "And the Word became Flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth."
John 6: 35 "I am the bread of life; he who come to Me shall not hunger, and he who believs in Me shall never thirst."
John 6:41, 48 "...I am the bread that came down out of heaven." "I am the bread of life."
John 6: 51 "I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread also which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh."
John 8:12..."I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me shall not work in the darkness, but shall have the light in his life."
John 8: 23..."I am not of this world."
John 10:9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."
John 10:11 "I am the Good Shepherd; the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep."
John 10: 14 "I am the Good Shepherd; and I know My own, and My own know Me."
John 10: 27-29 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand."
John 10: 30 "I and the Father are One."
John 11:25 "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die..."
John 14: 6 "I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me."
John 15:1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser."
John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing."
The Word of God is filled with Who God is, describing His character to us. Oh dear ones, delve into His word. Dive in and enjoy the treasures you will find.
Word studies of the attributes of God will fill your days and your mind with beautiful, acceptable meditations. Start with just one aspect of God's character...that He is merciful or that He is gracious. He is holy. He is righteous. He is just. He is perfect. He is forgiving. He is full of lovingkindness.
The Hebrew names attributed to God also reveal more about His character. A word study on these is also a blessing. He is Jehovah jireh, God our provider. Jehovah roi- our God who sees. Jehovah shalom-God our peace. The list goes on and on. Have fun with this...be blessed.
Your sister in Christ.
I like the picture of a stones of remembrance, it is good practice for us to remember all God has done for us even if we don't physically place a stone down as the Israelites tribes did. Yet I especially like the idea of bedrock for it speaks to me of a foundational piece of remembrance. The stones of remembrance are good things to have as we walk this earth, the faithfulness that God has shown us throughout our days, but the bedrock remembrance is the foundations that we build our very lives upon. This foundation is none other than Jesus Christ, the God of the Universe. We are to be firmly rooted and grounded in Him. We are to remember that He is our foundation. Our Cornerstone.
What is this bedrock of remembrance? God is the very bedrock of our existence. And this remembrance is the character of our God. God is very predictable in His character for He is unchanging. God is predictable in His character but unpredictable in His activity.And as the chaos of life ensues about us, having this bedrock of remembrance is all the more necessary.
Remembering Who God is helps us to be firmly rooted in our faith. We get to know Him better by the study of His Word. In the Gospel account written by John, we learn that the Word was with God and that the Word was (is) God. The Word?...Jesus Christ, for John tells us that the Word became Flesh. So, as we study the Word, we are learning more about God. He teaches us through His Word. And time in His Word is time with Him.
What are some things the Bible says about God? Here are just a few "I am" statements...
John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
John 1: 10 "And the Word became Flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth."
John 6: 35 "I am the bread of life; he who come to Me shall not hunger, and he who believs in Me shall never thirst."
John 6:41, 48 "...I am the bread that came down out of heaven." "I am the bread of life."
John 6: 51 "I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread also which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh."
John 8:12..."I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me shall not work in the darkness, but shall have the light in his life."
John 8: 23..."I am not of this world."
John 10:9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."
John 10:11 "I am the Good Shepherd; the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep."
John 10: 14 "I am the Good Shepherd; and I know My own, and My own know Me."
John 10: 27-29 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand."
John 10: 30 "I and the Father are One."
John 11:25 "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die..."
John 14: 6 "I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me."
John 15:1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser."
John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing."
The Word of God is filled with Who God is, describing His character to us. Oh dear ones, delve into His word. Dive in and enjoy the treasures you will find.
Word studies of the attributes of God will fill your days and your mind with beautiful, acceptable meditations. Start with just one aspect of God's character...that He is merciful or that He is gracious. He is holy. He is righteous. He is just. He is perfect. He is forgiving. He is full of lovingkindness.
The Hebrew names attributed to God also reveal more about His character. A word study on these is also a blessing. He is Jehovah jireh, God our provider. Jehovah roi- our God who sees. Jehovah shalom-God our peace. The list goes on and on. Have fun with this...be blessed.
Your sister in Christ.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Elephants and Christians...Overcoming (more thinking on Revelation)
An amazing story which many may already be familiar is that of training an elephant.
Now elephants being the huge land mammals they are can wreak havoc in the jungle, mowing down trees or anything in their way. These herd animals can be fierce in their protection and anyone threatening them will find their life in peril. Elephants are also trainable as many have observed at the zoo or in the circus. These huge, powerful animals can be contained, not in cages, but by a post and rope. How can this be?
The training begins when the elephant is a baby. He is removed from his herd, shackled and chained to a post in the ground (not unlike Dumbo!). He fights and struggles to be free. This struggle may go on for days, weeks, perhaps months until finally the elephant is resigned to his captivity. He no longer struggles against the shackle but yields to it. He is without his herd and without his freedom. Soon, only a rope tied to the post holds this enormous beast in place. Yet we know that all this elephant, now a grown adult, would have to do is tug a bit on the rope and it might break or pull until the post comes loose from the ground and then he would enjoy freedom. So, why doesn't he? Why doesn't this animal break free but remain tied in captivity?
Some observations of the elephants training for a life in captivity parallels that of a Christian.
(1) The elephant is removed from the protection it's herd. We Christians must be aware that we do not forsake the assembling of believers and become isolated...we NEED each other. We need to be in fellowship with one another for the glory of Jesus.
(2) The elephant is then shackled to a post that securely holds it in place. Once he is resigned to this, he then is 'content' to stay shackled. He lives as though he has forgotten his freedome. This is not unlike those without Christ (which included those of us before we belonged to Christ) who are shackled to a life style of sin being born in sin. Firmly and securely tethered in this life of sin not realizing there is anything else.
(3) The elephant's ability to obtain it's freedom is in it's power and strength, yet it remains tethered. It does not enjoy the freedom that is at hand because it believes that it is forever securely bound.
Once we were like that elephant, tethered and without hope. But unlike it, we had NO power within ourselves to deliver us from a life of sin and to deliver us from God's wrath against sin. Yet, we who belong to Christ have been freed from the life of sin. So why do often we remain tethered to a lifestyle of sin. Why do we remain entangled in sin when we have the power through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, to live a life unto Him? Why do we allow ourselves to being captive? Jesus has opened our cell doors. We must take Him at His word and walk in freedom. Jesus has set us free and whoever Jesus sets free, he is free indeed. Jesus set us free for freedom sake.
Hebrews 12:1-3 "Therefore, since we have so great a could of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance, the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despisng the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. "
In Revelation, Jesus reminds the overcomers of the blessings to come. Who are the overcomers? We are-those in Christ Jesus. How do we have the power to overcome? It is in the finished work of the cross of Jesus Christ-the Messiah.
We are to remain in Him and obey Him. We obey Him by loving Him and loving others. When the enemy attempts to lie to us, twist God's Word and entangle us in sin...we must remember who we are in Christ. We are free! We are no longer captives. There may be struggles, especially if we allow sin to take root and entangle us. The weeding and the detangling may hurt and will be difficult. But it is worth it! Walk in freedom. Read about the Hope we have in Christ! Take courage that if there is a battle that rages, that it is because you are walking in the freedom Christ purchased for you and this ticks off your enemy and mine. His goal is to keep believers from fully recognizing all our relationship with Christ offers us.
The battle rages...but Christ is victorious and we are overcomers! Let us walk in freedom.
Now elephants being the huge land mammals they are can wreak havoc in the jungle, mowing down trees or anything in their way. These herd animals can be fierce in their protection and anyone threatening them will find their life in peril. Elephants are also trainable as many have observed at the zoo or in the circus. These huge, powerful animals can be contained, not in cages, but by a post and rope. How can this be?
The training begins when the elephant is a baby. He is removed from his herd, shackled and chained to a post in the ground (not unlike Dumbo!). He fights and struggles to be free. This struggle may go on for days, weeks, perhaps months until finally the elephant is resigned to his captivity. He no longer struggles against the shackle but yields to it. He is without his herd and without his freedom. Soon, only a rope tied to the post holds this enormous beast in place. Yet we know that all this elephant, now a grown adult, would have to do is tug a bit on the rope and it might break or pull until the post comes loose from the ground and then he would enjoy freedom. So, why doesn't he? Why doesn't this animal break free but remain tied in captivity?
Some observations of the elephants training for a life in captivity parallels that of a Christian.
(1) The elephant is removed from the protection it's herd. We Christians must be aware that we do not forsake the assembling of believers and become isolated...we NEED each other. We need to be in fellowship with one another for the glory of Jesus.
(2) The elephant is then shackled to a post that securely holds it in place. Once he is resigned to this, he then is 'content' to stay shackled. He lives as though he has forgotten his freedome. This is not unlike those without Christ (which included those of us before we belonged to Christ) who are shackled to a life style of sin being born in sin. Firmly and securely tethered in this life of sin not realizing there is anything else.
(3) The elephant's ability to obtain it's freedom is in it's power and strength, yet it remains tethered. It does not enjoy the freedom that is at hand because it believes that it is forever securely bound.
Once we were like that elephant, tethered and without hope. But unlike it, we had NO power within ourselves to deliver us from a life of sin and to deliver us from God's wrath against sin. Yet, we who belong to Christ have been freed from the life of sin. So why do often we remain tethered to a lifestyle of sin. Why do we remain entangled in sin when we have the power through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, to live a life unto Him? Why do we allow ourselves to being captive? Jesus has opened our cell doors. We must take Him at His word and walk in freedom. Jesus has set us free and whoever Jesus sets free, he is free indeed. Jesus set us free for freedom sake.
Hebrews 12:1-3 "Therefore, since we have so great a could of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance, the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despisng the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. "
In Revelation, Jesus reminds the overcomers of the blessings to come. Who are the overcomers? We are-those in Christ Jesus. How do we have the power to overcome? It is in the finished work of the cross of Jesus Christ-the Messiah.
We are to remain in Him and obey Him. We obey Him by loving Him and loving others. When the enemy attempts to lie to us, twist God's Word and entangle us in sin...we must remember who we are in Christ. We are free! We are no longer captives. There may be struggles, especially if we allow sin to take root and entangle us. The weeding and the detangling may hurt and will be difficult. But it is worth it! Walk in freedom. Read about the Hope we have in Christ! Take courage that if there is a battle that rages, that it is because you are walking in the freedom Christ purchased for you and this ticks off your enemy and mine. His goal is to keep believers from fully recognizing all our relationship with Christ offers us.
The battle rages...but Christ is victorious and we are overcomers! Let us walk in freedom.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Fan Club or Family Member?
Matthew 7:20-23 Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven; but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord did we not prophesy in Your name and in Your name cast our demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' And then I will declare to them, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.'
Our God created us to have and enjoy relationships. Ultimately, He desires us to enter in to His company, the privilege which He purchased for us. This relationship is what separates Christianity from all other religions. Not the superficial Christianity of believing in God-for even the demons believe in Him and tremble, but the Christianity that demands a relationship with the Everlasting God. This Christianity is the repentant, lifestyle of faith that will allow us to stand before God's throne and have Jesus confess to His Father that we are His. This relationship is an open invitation to all who would believe and receive Christ. Yet it is exclusive in that only those who do enter in by the narrow way-through the Way, the Truth and the Life-Jesus Christ, may have a relationship with God the Father through Jesus the Son. We are no longer on the outside, but part of God's family
I share the following explanation of relationship's importance:
There are several bands that I have enjoyed over the years. I've love the music of Earth, Wind and Fire, Peter Frampton, the Beatles, Poco to name a few. And then when I became a Christian, I was blessed by the music of Keith Green, Sweet Comfort Band, 2nd Chapter of Acts, and later in my walk wiht Christ, the music of Steven Curtis Chapman, Newsong, Mercy Me, Casting Crowns, and Big Daddy Weave, to name a few.
Though I love music and enjoyed listening to it...loudly. I never became a fan member of any band or musician. And now becoming a fan is as easy as liking something on FaceBook and with a click of a button, you can become a fan of different organizations or artists or musicians.
Many people enjoy being a fan and being a part of something. Some people even aspire to be the "best fan" club member. This is the person may be one who organizes events for this fan club. The best fan might also have every marketing gimmick related to the fan club. This best fan will be able to tell you all about the fan club, as well as every fact, every detail of the person the club is organized for.
The best fan might even get back stage passes after an event. BUT...will the "best fan" be known? Will he be recognized? If this best fan just showed up backstage with no introduction, would he be recognized? Would the person be pleased to see this best fan and want to spend time with him? Would this best fan be invited to holiday family gatherings or special family events? Would this best fan enjoy vacations with his idol? No...none of this would happen.
Why? Because there is no relationship? At the end of the day, the musician or whoever is idolized, will go on with life and not think on the best fan because the musician has no relationship with him. The best fan isn't known.
Yet, in contrast, the family members may go backstage after the event and they are greeted with great joy and pleasure for they know one another. They belong together and being family members, they recognize one another.
The Scripture in Matthew 7:20-23, describes the difference between a fan of Jesus and a follower of Jesus. We may be very excited about things spiritual and do many Bible studies and many "good works" in the name of Christ, BUT if we do not belong to Him, He will not "know" us. We must accept His invitation to become joint-heir with Him. This is done only through His work on the cross. We can contribute NOTHING to this finished work. I Peter 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, the Just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.
The good works in Christ Jesus come later...we just need to believe and receive His work.
God's invitation is accessible and welcoming to all yet it is exclusive to those who receive it through the One Way, Jesus Christ.
John 6:35, 37, 40 Jesus said- "I am the bread of life, he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst...All that the Father gives to Me shall come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out...For this is the will of My Fathers, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life and I Myself will raise him up on that last day."
John 14:16-17, 21 Jesus said- And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom th world cannot receive, because it does not behold Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you, and will be in you....He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father , and I will love him, and will disclose Myself to him."
May none who might read this find themselves as a Fan of Jesus Christ but a family member of the One True, Triune God. Jesus words describe what will happen to fan members...on the last day-the most important day-the fans of Jesus Christ won't be known.
John 10:27-30 The Words of Jesus- "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are One."
Our God created us to have and enjoy relationships. Ultimately, He desires us to enter in to His company, the privilege which He purchased for us. This relationship is what separates Christianity from all other religions. Not the superficial Christianity of believing in God-for even the demons believe in Him and tremble, but the Christianity that demands a relationship with the Everlasting God. This Christianity is the repentant, lifestyle of faith that will allow us to stand before God's throne and have Jesus confess to His Father that we are His. This relationship is an open invitation to all who would believe and receive Christ. Yet it is exclusive in that only those who do enter in by the narrow way-through the Way, the Truth and the Life-Jesus Christ, may have a relationship with God the Father through Jesus the Son. We are no longer on the outside, but part of God's family
I share the following explanation of relationship's importance:
There are several bands that I have enjoyed over the years. I've love the music of Earth, Wind and Fire, Peter Frampton, the Beatles, Poco to name a few. And then when I became a Christian, I was blessed by the music of Keith Green, Sweet Comfort Band, 2nd Chapter of Acts, and later in my walk wiht Christ, the music of Steven Curtis Chapman, Newsong, Mercy Me, Casting Crowns, and Big Daddy Weave, to name a few.
Though I love music and enjoyed listening to it...loudly. I never became a fan member of any band or musician. And now becoming a fan is as easy as liking something on FaceBook and with a click of a button, you can become a fan of different organizations or artists or musicians.
Many people enjoy being a fan and being a part of something. Some people even aspire to be the "best fan" club member. This is the person may be one who organizes events for this fan club. The best fan might also have every marketing gimmick related to the fan club. This best fan will be able to tell you all about the fan club, as well as every fact, every detail of the person the club is organized for.
The best fan might even get back stage passes after an event. BUT...will the "best fan" be known? Will he be recognized? If this best fan just showed up backstage with no introduction, would he be recognized? Would the person be pleased to see this best fan and want to spend time with him? Would this best fan be invited to holiday family gatherings or special family events? Would this best fan enjoy vacations with his idol? No...none of this would happen.
Why? Because there is no relationship? At the end of the day, the musician or whoever is idolized, will go on with life and not think on the best fan because the musician has no relationship with him. The best fan isn't known.
Yet, in contrast, the family members may go backstage after the event and they are greeted with great joy and pleasure for they know one another. They belong together and being family members, they recognize one another.
The Scripture in Matthew 7:20-23, describes the difference between a fan of Jesus and a follower of Jesus. We may be very excited about things spiritual and do many Bible studies and many "good works" in the name of Christ, BUT if we do not belong to Him, He will not "know" us. We must accept His invitation to become joint-heir with Him. This is done only through His work on the cross. We can contribute NOTHING to this finished work. I Peter 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, the Just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.
The good works in Christ Jesus come later...we just need to believe and receive His work.
God's invitation is accessible and welcoming to all yet it is exclusive to those who receive it through the One Way, Jesus Christ.
John 6:35, 37, 40 Jesus said- "I am the bread of life, he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst...All that the Father gives to Me shall come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out...For this is the will of My Fathers, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life and I Myself will raise him up on that last day."
John 14:16-17, 21 Jesus said- And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom th world cannot receive, because it does not behold Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you, and will be in you....He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father , and I will love him, and will disclose Myself to him."
May none who might read this find themselves as a Fan of Jesus Christ but a family member of the One True, Triune God. Jesus words describe what will happen to fan members...on the last day-the most important day-the fans of Jesus Christ won't be known.
John 10:27-30 The Words of Jesus- "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are One."
Friday, January 21, 2011
Beatitudes in Revelation
Did you know there are beatitudes in Revelation? Warren Weirsbe points our the following:
Revelation 1:3 blessing in reading the prophecy
Revelation 14:13 blessing if we die in the Lord
Revelation 16:15 blessed in watchfulness-the Lord is returning!
Revelation 19:9 blessed if invited to the Wedding Feast
Revelation 20:6 blessed and holy who share in first resurrection-following Jesus
Revelation 22:7 blessed are those who obey
Revelation 22:14 blessed are those who wash their robes for they will enter through the gates of the city and eat fruit from the Tree of Life.
(1) Reading the Book and specifically the book of Revelation promises a blessing. So, why not be blessed and read it often!
(2) For those who die in Jesus there is a blessing for it signifies our work here on earth is done and we are with He Who loved and loves us with His life!
(3) For those who anxiously await Christ's return, there is blessing. Not unlike young children anxiously awaiting for their birthday or some other awaited prize...but more so! For our waiting is for what is eternal! Our waiting has an imperishable prize, eternal life in Christ Jesus. Our waiting is for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Creator of all things seen and unseen. Now that is a magnificent reason to watchfully wait.
(4)Those who are invited to the Wedding Feast are blessed. Who doesn't like to go to weddings? There are television shows about wedding dresses, wedding cakes, weddings...the day of one's wedding is much anticipated and to be a guest is a delight. How much more for the Wedding Feast of the Bridegroom (Jesus) and His Bride (His Church)! How blessed to be invited to the Wedding Feast of the Lord of All, the Prince of Peace, the Savior, Y'shua, Jesus Christ. How wonderful to know that the invitation goes out to all the world. It is an invitation to whosoever believes and receives Jesus! It is a universal invitation with an exclusive guest list.
(5) Oh to share in the resurrection of Christ Jesus. All who belong to Him will enjoy this blessing! Life fulfilled in Him with bodily resurrection just as He was resurrected.
(6) Obeying God's Word is a blessing. How do I know? His Word tells me. So, even if the blessings may not be for the here and now, they are for the soon to be. God never fails. His Word never fails. He will fulfill what He says in His perfect timing. And we parents give our children the great gift of practicing obedience to us. They are to honor and obey their earthly parents..and in so doing establish a lifetime of this unto God Almighty.
(7)Those who belong to Christ and have their "robes" washed will enter God's kingdom by the gate. Now this washing is not something we do-but it is the work of God's Spirit in our lives, renewing our minds by His Word, teaching us, guiding us. This washing is done each time we obey God and His Word. We will then be blessed with going to the Tree of Life that was in the Garden with Adam and Eve and eat of it! This Tree of Life's fruit is eternal life! We will be robed in the righteousness of Christ and eat of His Tree of Life.
Pretty amazing, huh? Now, go pick up the Word and begin reading Revelation, chapter 1. You will be blessed as you read.
Revelation 1:3 blessing in reading the prophecy
Revelation 14:13 blessing if we die in the Lord
Revelation 16:15 blessed in watchfulness-the Lord is returning!
Revelation 19:9 blessed if invited to the Wedding Feast
Revelation 20:6 blessed and holy who share in first resurrection-following Jesus
Revelation 22:7 blessed are those who obey
Revelation 22:14 blessed are those who wash their robes for they will enter through the gates of the city and eat fruit from the Tree of Life.
(1) Reading the Book and specifically the book of Revelation promises a blessing. So, why not be blessed and read it often!
(2) For those who die in Jesus there is a blessing for it signifies our work here on earth is done and we are with He Who loved and loves us with His life!
(3) For those who anxiously await Christ's return, there is blessing. Not unlike young children anxiously awaiting for their birthday or some other awaited prize...but more so! For our waiting is for what is eternal! Our waiting has an imperishable prize, eternal life in Christ Jesus. Our waiting is for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Creator of all things seen and unseen. Now that is a magnificent reason to watchfully wait.
(4)Those who are invited to the Wedding Feast are blessed. Who doesn't like to go to weddings? There are television shows about wedding dresses, wedding cakes, weddings...the day of one's wedding is much anticipated and to be a guest is a delight. How much more for the Wedding Feast of the Bridegroom (Jesus) and His Bride (His Church)! How blessed to be invited to the Wedding Feast of the Lord of All, the Prince of Peace, the Savior, Y'shua, Jesus Christ. How wonderful to know that the invitation goes out to all the world. It is an invitation to whosoever believes and receives Jesus! It is a universal invitation with an exclusive guest list.
(5) Oh to share in the resurrection of Christ Jesus. All who belong to Him will enjoy this blessing! Life fulfilled in Him with bodily resurrection just as He was resurrected.
(6) Obeying God's Word is a blessing. How do I know? His Word tells me. So, even if the blessings may not be for the here and now, they are for the soon to be. God never fails. His Word never fails. He will fulfill what He says in His perfect timing. And we parents give our children the great gift of practicing obedience to us. They are to honor and obey their earthly parents..and in so doing establish a lifetime of this unto God Almighty.
(7)Those who belong to Christ and have their "robes" washed will enter God's kingdom by the gate. Now this washing is not something we do-but it is the work of God's Spirit in our lives, renewing our minds by His Word, teaching us, guiding us. This washing is done each time we obey God and His Word. We will then be blessed with going to the Tree of Life that was in the Garden with Adam and Eve and eat of it! This Tree of Life's fruit is eternal life! We will be robed in the righteousness of Christ and eat of His Tree of Life.
Pretty amazing, huh? Now, go pick up the Word and begin reading Revelation, chapter 1. You will be blessed as you read.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Overcomers
The Lord continuously draws me back to the passages in Revelation describing the seven churches. Each church is unique in their standing and their faith (or lack of faith). In each commendation or rebuke, the Lord Jesus reminds the church what is to come for those who overcome.
At the introduction of each message to the church is a description of Jesus. These alone are awe inspiring. 2:1 proclaims Christ as "The One Who holds the seven stars in His right hand, the One Who walks among the seven lampstands." 2:8 describes Him as "The First and the Last, Who was dead and has come to life." 2:12 "The One Who has the sharp, two-edged sword." 2:18 "The Son of God, Whose eyes are like flames of fire, Whose feet are like polished bronze." Revelations 2:23 proclaims "I am He Who searches minds and hearts." 3:1 Jesus is "the One Who has the sevenfold Spirit of God and the seven stars." 3:7 Jesus is "the One Who is holy and true, the One Who has the Key of David, what He opens no one closes, what He closes no one can open." And finally in verse 3:14, He is "the One Who is the Amen-the faithful and true witness, the Beginning of creation..."
One day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord. He is the One, the First and Last, the Righteous Judge, the Omniscient God, He is holy and true. He is the Omnipotent Lord, ruler of Heaven and Earth. These descriptions of our King of kings is awesome yet there is more! For those of us who belong to Him by His free gift of life to us, we who overcome, are promised the following from God's hand:
Revelation 2:7 "I will grant him to eat from the Tree of Life which is in the paradise of God." Adam and Eve were given the privelege to walk with God and dwell in His Garden. The ONLY restriction was to not eat from one tree out of all that was in the Garden. This tree, named Knowledge of Good and Evil, was forbidden because God, Creator of Adam and Eve, knew what was best for them. Yet, they chose rebellion over obedience and God in His magnificent love for His Creation, did not want His beloved to then eat from the Tree of Life and live forever in their rebellious condition, so He banned them from the Garden for a time.
Those who overcome will now enjoy the privilege of eating the fruit of the Tree of Life!
Revelation 2:10 "I will give you the Crown of Life." We will then be crowned with the Crown of Life.
Revelation 2:17 "I will give him some of the hidden manna. I will give to each one a white stone on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it."
The manna given to the Hebrews in their wilderness wandering was sustenance beyond their comprehension. It was a picture to mankind that we cannot live by bread alone by all that proceeds from the Mouth of God. We need His provision each day.
And I LOVE this part...He will give us a white stone that is engraved with a special name that only He and I will know. Each one of us will be given this precious stone with a "pet name" the Lord has for us.
Hosea records the names of his children through the harlot, Gomer. Each name is significant, describing the fruit of Israel's disobedience...Jezreel meant "the Lord will punish", and was a reminder to the Hebrews of the judgment to come upon them for their disobedience. Lo-ruhamah means that "the Lord will no longer have compassion". The House of Israel was to face judgment without compassion for their generations of disobedience while yet enjoying some of God's blessings. Lo-ammi was the third child of Gomer's whose name meant "you are not My people and I am not your God." This revealed that no longer would the House of Israel be referred to as God's people because of their grievous rebellion. Later, God shows His great lovingkindness and renames the children speaking of His forgiveness, His compassion and claiming His people.
Each of these original names could be the names we have grown up with...until we believed and received from Jesus Christ the Lord, His forgiveness and new life. Soon, we, like Hosea's children, will receive a new name-describing the new life we have in Christ. Hallelujah!
Revelation 2:23 "I will give to each one according to your deeds (whatever you deserve-NLT)."
This is being self explanatory, should also be sobering.
Revelation 3:5 you will be clothed in white and "I will never erase their names from the Book of Life. I will announce before My Father and His angels that they are mine." (NLT)
We will be given white, pure clothing and then Jesus tells us that He will never erase our names from His Book of Life. Jesus also tells us that He will announce us before His Father and His Father's angels that we belong to Him. It is a picture of coming into a royal hall and then being announced that you are the king's child! And this is EXACTLY what Jesus is doing for us. He is telling all of creation that we belong to Him!
Revelation 3:12 "I will make him a pillar in the Temple of My God..."
We become part of God's grand purpose...to glorify Him. How is this done? It is a mystery to me, but being a pillar in God's Temple pictures a place of importance and prominence. Pillars uphold the Temple, so we too uphold God and His glory, enthroning Him in our praise of Him.
Revelation 3:21 "I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne."
To sit down during the times of John (the author/recorder of Revelation) meant that your work was through. We will be granted the privilege to sit down because we have completed our work. We sit down with Christ on His throne because of His completed work on the cross.
All through out Scripture God has promises for His people. He does all the work and our part, to love Him with all our hearts, minds, soul and strength, is what is required of us. We who in Christ Jesus overcome we will receive from Him eternal life. We will be crowned with this eternal life for we are Christ's joint heirs in His kingdom.
May each one of us be overcomers in and through Christ Jesus.
Amen!
At the introduction of each message to the church is a description of Jesus. These alone are awe inspiring. 2:1 proclaims Christ as "The One Who holds the seven stars in His right hand, the One Who walks among the seven lampstands." 2:8 describes Him as "The First and the Last, Who was dead and has come to life." 2:12 "The One Who has the sharp, two-edged sword." 2:18 "The Son of God, Whose eyes are like flames of fire, Whose feet are like polished bronze." Revelations 2:23 proclaims "I am He Who searches minds and hearts." 3:1 Jesus is "the One Who has the sevenfold Spirit of God and the seven stars." 3:7 Jesus is "the One Who is holy and true, the One Who has the Key of David, what He opens no one closes, what He closes no one can open." And finally in verse 3:14, He is "the One Who is the Amen-the faithful and true witness, the Beginning of creation..."
One day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord. He is the One, the First and Last, the Righteous Judge, the Omniscient God, He is holy and true. He is the Omnipotent Lord, ruler of Heaven and Earth. These descriptions of our King of kings is awesome yet there is more! For those of us who belong to Him by His free gift of life to us, we who overcome, are promised the following from God's hand:
Revelation 2:7 "I will grant him to eat from the Tree of Life which is in the paradise of God." Adam and Eve were given the privelege to walk with God and dwell in His Garden. The ONLY restriction was to not eat from one tree out of all that was in the Garden. This tree, named Knowledge of Good and Evil, was forbidden because God, Creator of Adam and Eve, knew what was best for them. Yet, they chose rebellion over obedience and God in His magnificent love for His Creation, did not want His beloved to then eat from the Tree of Life and live forever in their rebellious condition, so He banned them from the Garden for a time.
Those who overcome will now enjoy the privilege of eating the fruit of the Tree of Life!
Revelation 2:10 "I will give you the Crown of Life." We will then be crowned with the Crown of Life.
Revelation 2:17 "I will give him some of the hidden manna. I will give to each one a white stone on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it."
The manna given to the Hebrews in their wilderness wandering was sustenance beyond their comprehension. It was a picture to mankind that we cannot live by bread alone by all that proceeds from the Mouth of God. We need His provision each day.
And I LOVE this part...He will give us a white stone that is engraved with a special name that only He and I will know. Each one of us will be given this precious stone with a "pet name" the Lord has for us.
Hosea records the names of his children through the harlot, Gomer. Each name is significant, describing the fruit of Israel's disobedience...Jezreel meant "the Lord will punish", and was a reminder to the Hebrews of the judgment to come upon them for their disobedience. Lo-ruhamah means that "the Lord will no longer have compassion". The House of Israel was to face judgment without compassion for their generations of disobedience while yet enjoying some of God's blessings. Lo-ammi was the third child of Gomer's whose name meant "you are not My people and I am not your God." This revealed that no longer would the House of Israel be referred to as God's people because of their grievous rebellion. Later, God shows His great lovingkindness and renames the children speaking of His forgiveness, His compassion and claiming His people.
Each of these original names could be the names we have grown up with...until we believed and received from Jesus Christ the Lord, His forgiveness and new life. Soon, we, like Hosea's children, will receive a new name-describing the new life we have in Christ. Hallelujah!
Revelation 2:23 "I will give to each one according to your deeds (whatever you deserve-NLT)."
This is being self explanatory, should also be sobering.
Revelation 3:5 you will be clothed in white and "I will never erase their names from the Book of Life. I will announce before My Father and His angels that they are mine." (NLT)
We will be given white, pure clothing and then Jesus tells us that He will never erase our names from His Book of Life. Jesus also tells us that He will announce us before His Father and His Father's angels that we belong to Him. It is a picture of coming into a royal hall and then being announced that you are the king's child! And this is EXACTLY what Jesus is doing for us. He is telling all of creation that we belong to Him!
Revelation 3:12 "I will make him a pillar in the Temple of My God..."
We become part of God's grand purpose...to glorify Him. How is this done? It is a mystery to me, but being a pillar in God's Temple pictures a place of importance and prominence. Pillars uphold the Temple, so we too uphold God and His glory, enthroning Him in our praise of Him.
Revelation 3:21 "I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne."
To sit down during the times of John (the author/recorder of Revelation) meant that your work was through. We will be granted the privilege to sit down because we have completed our work. We sit down with Christ on His throne because of His completed work on the cross.
All through out Scripture God has promises for His people. He does all the work and our part, to love Him with all our hearts, minds, soul and strength, is what is required of us. We who in Christ Jesus overcome we will receive from Him eternal life. We will be crowned with this eternal life for we are Christ's joint heirs in His kingdom.
May each one of us be overcomers in and through Christ Jesus.
Amen!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Valleys
Just that word, "valleys" initially brings to my imagination the beauty of a river valley. It is lush and green and full of life. River valleys are often referred to as the bottom lands where crops and animals may thrive. Yet valleys, upon further meditation, can also refer to a difficult time spiritually. We say we are "down in the dumps" when we are sad yet also refer to "mountain top" experiences when we feel happy and times seem good. These two types of valleys are not mutually exclusive as I will share with you here in a bit.
The earliest reference to valley that I found in my study (please let me know if you found another!) is of the Jordan Valley in Genesis 13:10. This reference is before the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrha where the river valley was a desirable and choice place for Lot to settle. It was referred to as "like a garden of the Lord". Another positive reference of a valley is from Joshua 10:12 where God caused the sun to stand still to benefit the Israelites.
Jesus is called the Lily of the valleys...which is a picture of purity and beauty. (Song of Solomon 2:1) And as I thought on this "picture" I am reminded that He is with us, in His beauty and purity, in the valleys of life, good or bad, easy or difficult. He is the Lily of the valleys (singular in reference to Jesus, plural in reference to our lives).
There are other references to valleys in Scripture. Psalm 23:4 mentions the "valley of the shadow of death" or the NLT translates it as the "valley of deep darkness". This valley of deep darkness expresses what we feel as we face difficult times. Yet, God does not end it there in Psalm 23-the Shepherd's Psalm. As we go through the valley of the deep darkness, He is with me! His rod and His staff comfort me (and directs me). What love that is! Verse 6 states that "goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." So even though we go through the valley of deep darkness, the Lord is there! He is Jehovah Shammah.
Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Joel also have a reference to valleys, but there are two others that I would especially like to focus on. These two passages demonstrate that the valley can be both positive and negative. These two valley references speak of turning what would considered a negative situation into something good and full of blessing.
"Passing through the valley of Baca, they make it a spring, the early rain also covers it with blessings. They go from strength to strength." Psalm 84:6-7(a)
This valley is also referred to as the valley of weeping. The cedars which grew in this valley would "weep" their sap/gum of balsam and it is for this reason that the valley is also referred to as the valley of balsam.
The beauty of this passage is that the valley of weeping will be turned to blessings. Our sorrows will be turned to joy. And we are promised the strength (aka "resources") we need to continue on the journey God has set before us.
"Therefore, behold, I will allure her, bring her into the wilderness, and speak kindly to her. Then I will give her vineyards from there, and the valley of Achor (valley of Trouble) as a door of Hope...and it will come about in that day, declares the Lord, "That you will call me Ishi and will not longer call Me Baali." Hosea 2:14,15 & 16
This portion of Scripture became significant to me most recently as my family and I faced tremendous challenges. The Lord seemed to confirm this message to me as the Bible study group I was in suggested we study the book of Hosea. What a journey of blessing that was!
In this passage, Hosea is inspired by God to write about His (God's) great love for Israel. This applies to we believers for we have been grafted in as God's children through Jesus Christ. God allures us and draws us to places we might not choose to go...like the wilderness. Yet, He draws us away to these places of solitude to speak kindly and lovingly to us. The promise that follows is amazing.
The valley of Achor is also referred to as the valley of Trouble or Troubling as this is where God's judgment fell on Achan for his disobedience and rebellion. This valley of Achor God promises will become a door of Hope!
So, what must we do? Walk through the Door. I think sometimes standing at the threshold is what we settle for, yet Jesus bids us come in! As we face difficulties, heartaches, sorrows-these Jesus will turn into joy. He exchanges beauty for ashes. He restores that which the locusts have eaten.
We must go through the wilderness and listen to the Words of God. We must walk through the valley of trouble to reach the door of Hope and then...step through to His peace, His love, His joy.
May you be blessed with the knowledge that the God of the Universe, the Sovereign Lord is not ignorant of your situation but is intimately acquainted with you for He is your Creator. He has great plans for you if you only trust Him, walk in obedience to His Word.
We serve a God Who can change a valley of sorrow into joy. He can change a valley of trouble into a promise of hope. We serve an Awesome God!
The earliest reference to valley that I found in my study (please let me know if you found another!) is of the Jordan Valley in Genesis 13:10. This reference is before the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrha where the river valley was a desirable and choice place for Lot to settle. It was referred to as "like a garden of the Lord". Another positive reference of a valley is from Joshua 10:12 where God caused the sun to stand still to benefit the Israelites.
Jesus is called the Lily of the valleys...which is a picture of purity and beauty. (Song of Solomon 2:1) And as I thought on this "picture" I am reminded that He is with us, in His beauty and purity, in the valleys of life, good or bad, easy or difficult. He is the Lily of the valleys (singular in reference to Jesus, plural in reference to our lives).
There are other references to valleys in Scripture. Psalm 23:4 mentions the "valley of the shadow of death" or the NLT translates it as the "valley of deep darkness". This valley of deep darkness expresses what we feel as we face difficult times. Yet, God does not end it there in Psalm 23-the Shepherd's Psalm. As we go through the valley of the deep darkness, He is with me! His rod and His staff comfort me (and directs me). What love that is! Verse 6 states that "goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." So even though we go through the valley of deep darkness, the Lord is there! He is Jehovah Shammah.
Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Joel also have a reference to valleys, but there are two others that I would especially like to focus on. These two passages demonstrate that the valley can be both positive and negative. These two valley references speak of turning what would considered a negative situation into something good and full of blessing.
"Passing through the valley of Baca, they make it a spring, the early rain also covers it with blessings. They go from strength to strength." Psalm 84:6-7(a)
This valley is also referred to as the valley of weeping. The cedars which grew in this valley would "weep" their sap/gum of balsam and it is for this reason that the valley is also referred to as the valley of balsam.
The beauty of this passage is that the valley of weeping will be turned to blessings. Our sorrows will be turned to joy. And we are promised the strength (aka "resources") we need to continue on the journey God has set before us.
"Therefore, behold, I will allure her, bring her into the wilderness, and speak kindly to her. Then I will give her vineyards from there, and the valley of Achor (valley of Trouble) as a door of Hope...and it will come about in that day, declares the Lord, "That you will call me Ishi and will not longer call Me Baali." Hosea 2:14,15 & 16
This portion of Scripture became significant to me most recently as my family and I faced tremendous challenges. The Lord seemed to confirm this message to me as the Bible study group I was in suggested we study the book of Hosea. What a journey of blessing that was!
In this passage, Hosea is inspired by God to write about His (God's) great love for Israel. This applies to we believers for we have been grafted in as God's children through Jesus Christ. God allures us and draws us to places we might not choose to go...like the wilderness. Yet, He draws us away to these places of solitude to speak kindly and lovingly to us. The promise that follows is amazing.
The valley of Achor is also referred to as the valley of Trouble or Troubling as this is where God's judgment fell on Achan for his disobedience and rebellion. This valley of Achor God promises will become a door of Hope!
So, what must we do? Walk through the Door. I think sometimes standing at the threshold is what we settle for, yet Jesus bids us come in! As we face difficulties, heartaches, sorrows-these Jesus will turn into joy. He exchanges beauty for ashes. He restores that which the locusts have eaten.
We must go through the wilderness and listen to the Words of God. We must walk through the valley of trouble to reach the door of Hope and then...step through to His peace, His love, His joy.
May you be blessed with the knowledge that the God of the Universe, the Sovereign Lord is not ignorant of your situation but is intimately acquainted with you for He is your Creator. He has great plans for you if you only trust Him, walk in obedience to His Word.
We serve a God Who can change a valley of sorrow into joy. He can change a valley of trouble into a promise of hope. We serve an Awesome God!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Bedrock Remembrance
"The Lord is righteous in all His ways, and kind in all His deeds. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth." Psalm 145:17-18
Bedrock remembrance. This is the foundation by which we live whether we are aware of it or not. We live by what has occured in the past. Throughout Scripture, God reminds us, even commands us to remember Him. He reminds us to remember His character, His faithfulness in the past which holds the promise of His faithfulness in the future. We remember that, "God is unchangeable in His character though His works are unpredictable."
What does this mean for us? It means that God is always righteous. God is always kind. He is righteous and kind in all of His ways and all of His deeds even if we do not understand them. This is the "bedrock of remembrance" that helps us through difficult times. Those of us who cling to Him and belong to His family can take comfort in this.
The "bedrock remembrance" is remembering God's faithfulness throughout the ages and in our lives. It has been said that we can only "live forward, but we learn backward". This applies to our remembering all that God has done for us through the years. We can start with this morning...He caused our hearts to continue to beat and our lungs to function throughout the night. We awaken to a new day with the promise of His new mercy and His never ending lovingkindness. We practice this thankful remembrances with the smallest things as well as the huge ones. There is much to remember and be thankful for and the thankful heart is a heart that is drawn to God.
We can awaken with each new day recalling God's past goodness and anticipate His future activity! Though difficulties and afflictions arise, we remember that "the Lord is righteous in all His ways, and kind in all His deeds." I do not suggest making light of very difficult times. I have many friends who are facing, from my perspective, chronic, unbearable difficulties. Even so, the circumstances of our lives does NOT change Who God is...and THIS is what we are to remember. The Lord wants us to thirst after Him not seeking a quick fix to our problems but longing for His life altering refreshment of His portion.
"O God, Thou art my God; I shall seek the earnestly; my soul thirsts for Thee, my flesh yearns for Thee; in a dry and weary land where there is no water." Psalm 63:1
"As for me, I shall call upon God and the Lord will save me. Evening and morning and at noon, I will complain and murmur(cry out my distress) and He will hear my voice...Cast (give) your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken (slip and fall)." Psalm 55:16-16, 22 NAS (NLT)
May we long after God as one who is desperately thirsty or ravenously hungry. May we pour out our longings to Him knowing that He is faithful to answer. He hears the voice of those who belong to Him through Christ Jesus. May we give the Lord all our burdens and be yoked with He Who is more than capable to care for us, making our burden light.
"May we long to see the Lord even if it means the light of His presence is best seen against the veil of darkness." Priscilla Shirer
We must will ourselves to turn our attention to what God is doing in the midst of the driest season(s) of our lives...and choose to remember His goodness, His kindness, His faithfulness...even in the midst of pain, disillusionment, and sorrow.
"And my God shall supply your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19
God is unchanging. He was faithful in the past, He is faithful now and He will be faithful. He is the God Who Was, Who Is, and Who is to Come! Scriptures proclaim God's work. Our lives proclaim His faithfulness. How awesome to realize that God supplies our needs and this is according to His riches in glory! And since God is Creator and therefore Owner of everything, this is an amazing promise. One we can put in our "bedrock of remembrance" for difficult times.
I would like to leave you this time with the following Scripture from the New Living Translation-
"Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong... May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to fully understand." Ephesians 3:17 &19
Bedrock remembrance. This is the foundation by which we live whether we are aware of it or not. We live by what has occured in the past. Throughout Scripture, God reminds us, even commands us to remember Him. He reminds us to remember His character, His faithfulness in the past which holds the promise of His faithfulness in the future. We remember that, "God is unchangeable in His character though His works are unpredictable."
What does this mean for us? It means that God is always righteous. God is always kind. He is righteous and kind in all of His ways and all of His deeds even if we do not understand them. This is the "bedrock of remembrance" that helps us through difficult times. Those of us who cling to Him and belong to His family can take comfort in this.
The "bedrock remembrance" is remembering God's faithfulness throughout the ages and in our lives. It has been said that we can only "live forward, but we learn backward". This applies to our remembering all that God has done for us through the years. We can start with this morning...He caused our hearts to continue to beat and our lungs to function throughout the night. We awaken to a new day with the promise of His new mercy and His never ending lovingkindness. We practice this thankful remembrances with the smallest things as well as the huge ones. There is much to remember and be thankful for and the thankful heart is a heart that is drawn to God.
We can awaken with each new day recalling God's past goodness and anticipate His future activity! Though difficulties and afflictions arise, we remember that "the Lord is righteous in all His ways, and kind in all His deeds." I do not suggest making light of very difficult times. I have many friends who are facing, from my perspective, chronic, unbearable difficulties. Even so, the circumstances of our lives does NOT change Who God is...and THIS is what we are to remember. The Lord wants us to thirst after Him not seeking a quick fix to our problems but longing for His life altering refreshment of His portion.
"O God, Thou art my God; I shall seek the earnestly; my soul thirsts for Thee, my flesh yearns for Thee; in a dry and weary land where there is no water." Psalm 63:1
"As for me, I shall call upon God and the Lord will save me. Evening and morning and at noon, I will complain and murmur(cry out my distress) and He will hear my voice...Cast (give) your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken (slip and fall)." Psalm 55:16-16, 22 NAS (NLT)
May we long after God as one who is desperately thirsty or ravenously hungry. May we pour out our longings to Him knowing that He is faithful to answer. He hears the voice of those who belong to Him through Christ Jesus. May we give the Lord all our burdens and be yoked with He Who is more than capable to care for us, making our burden light.
"May we long to see the Lord even if it means the light of His presence is best seen against the veil of darkness." Priscilla Shirer
We must will ourselves to turn our attention to what God is doing in the midst of the driest season(s) of our lives...and choose to remember His goodness, His kindness, His faithfulness...even in the midst of pain, disillusionment, and sorrow.
"And my God shall supply your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19
God is unchanging. He was faithful in the past, He is faithful now and He will be faithful. He is the God Who Was, Who Is, and Who is to Come! Scriptures proclaim God's work. Our lives proclaim His faithfulness. How awesome to realize that God supplies our needs and this is according to His riches in glory! And since God is Creator and therefore Owner of everything, this is an amazing promise. One we can put in our "bedrock of remembrance" for difficult times.
I would like to leave you this time with the following Scripture from the New Living Translation-
"Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong... May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to fully understand." Ephesians 3:17 &19
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
God's Sovereignty
"Oh Lord, to see You, even if the Light of Your presence is best seen against the veil of darkness!" Priscilla Shirer
This prayer was shared by the woman who wrote the Bible study I just completed. It is a reminder to me that God is faithful and unfailing. He is good all the time. His character never changes. He is the same today, yesterday and forever! What I know of Him now and know of Him from His Word will never change. My circumstances, my situations, the seasons of my life may change, but God never will. I can count on Him to sustain me. May I purposely turn my attention on to what God is doing. May I have His perspective on life and the situation I am in. Whether this be the wilderness and dry season of my life or a season of abundance. I must have a "bedrock of remembrance" of Who God is. He is Sovereign. He is good. He is unchanging. And through the difficult times of the wilderness walk, God peppers the desert with oases.
"The Lord is righteous in all of His ways, and kind in all of His deeds." Psalm 145:17
A dear sister made a delightful statement the other day. "If you don't like the fruit, the problem is in the root!" How true this is. If we are unhappy with what we are seeing in our lives, the fruit we are bearing, then we must evaluate the problem as being a root problem. We are to be rooted and grounded in God. Then the fruit of His Spirit can abound to us.
No plant or tree can bear fruit in poor soil. The roots will not bring up the necessary nutrients for life. The fruit will be of no good to anyone. Agricultural parables were often used in Scripture to explain difficult spiritual concepts. "If we don't like the fruit, the problem is in the root." Are we nurturing our minds with things of God. Are we having our lives, our hearts, our minds renewed by God and His Word? This is being rooted and grounded in God. When our foundation is in God, we are firmly established and can face anything this life throws our way as we trust our Sovereign God, who is Lord over all.
And as the parable of the sower speaks of where the seed falls will determine it's success, so too with the lives of people who hear God's Word. (You can read this parable in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark & Luke).
Some seed falls by the wayside and is quickly snatched up by the birds. This seed is likened to the people who hear God's Word but Satan quickly snatches it away.
The sower sows and some seed falls on rocky soil. Seed in rocky soil cannot have substantial roots. It quickly sprouts up only to wither and die because it has no roots to bring in life sustaining water and nutrients. This seed is like the individual who hears God's Word with zeal but never allows a life change to occur. This individual does not have roots that sink down into the Truths of Scripture. Interest in spiritual things last then only for a short season. I am speaking of the necessity to not only hear God's Word but believe it and receive Christ's gift of forgiveness and new life in Him.
The sower sows and some seed falls on soil but thorns also are there. Weeds and thorns compete (and usually win) for nutrients and space in gardens. The sower sows and when the seed sprouts, the life is strangled out by the thorns. This situation is the person who hears the Word of God, receives it but then allows the world, it's cares and materialism to choke out the Truths in God's Word. Jesus gives another picture of this when He says it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than it is for a rich person to enter Heaven. Why? Materialism. This view of life is idolatrous. One of the Ten Commandments tells us to have no other gods. Yet, we cling to the things of this world and it chokes the life from us.
The last soil receives the seed and is fruitful to abundance. Why? Because the seed was able to sink down roots into the good soil and grow. This soil is the person who hears God's Word, believes it and receives the gift of forgiveness and new life in Christ. This person allows her life to sink roots down into the Truths of God's Word. What does this parable promise? Fruitfulness!
So, where are we sinking our roots? Are we abiding in Christ, the Vine? Are we being rooted and grounded in God by being in His Word and in fellowship with His Body? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to renew our minds and conform us to the image of Jesus? Are we being the sweet fragrance of Christ?
I pray that we all would be actively living our faith...not because it saves (because it does NOT) but because we love the One Who came and died in our place. And on the third day, He rose again.
In Christ Jesus there will be no disappointment with the fruit. And we, in Christ Jesus, abide in His sovereignty knowing that He is using all that comes in to our lives to draw us into His likeness. Though difficulties arise, we know God remains the same. He will never forsake us. He may even deliver us out of difficulties. But if He doesn't, we can trust Him and be assured that He will see us through to the end because He loves us and we belong to Him.
This prayer was shared by the woman who wrote the Bible study I just completed. It is a reminder to me that God is faithful and unfailing. He is good all the time. His character never changes. He is the same today, yesterday and forever! What I know of Him now and know of Him from His Word will never change. My circumstances, my situations, the seasons of my life may change, but God never will. I can count on Him to sustain me. May I purposely turn my attention on to what God is doing. May I have His perspective on life and the situation I am in. Whether this be the wilderness and dry season of my life or a season of abundance. I must have a "bedrock of remembrance" of Who God is. He is Sovereign. He is good. He is unchanging. And through the difficult times of the wilderness walk, God peppers the desert with oases.
"The Lord is righteous in all of His ways, and kind in all of His deeds." Psalm 145:17
A dear sister made a delightful statement the other day. "If you don't like the fruit, the problem is in the root!" How true this is. If we are unhappy with what we are seeing in our lives, the fruit we are bearing, then we must evaluate the problem as being a root problem. We are to be rooted and grounded in God. Then the fruit of His Spirit can abound to us.
No plant or tree can bear fruit in poor soil. The roots will not bring up the necessary nutrients for life. The fruit will be of no good to anyone. Agricultural parables were often used in Scripture to explain difficult spiritual concepts. "If we don't like the fruit, the problem is in the root." Are we nurturing our minds with things of God. Are we having our lives, our hearts, our minds renewed by God and His Word? This is being rooted and grounded in God. When our foundation is in God, we are firmly established and can face anything this life throws our way as we trust our Sovereign God, who is Lord over all.
And as the parable of the sower speaks of where the seed falls will determine it's success, so too with the lives of people who hear God's Word. (You can read this parable in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark & Luke).
Some seed falls by the wayside and is quickly snatched up by the birds. This seed is likened to the people who hear God's Word but Satan quickly snatches it away.
The sower sows and some seed falls on rocky soil. Seed in rocky soil cannot have substantial roots. It quickly sprouts up only to wither and die because it has no roots to bring in life sustaining water and nutrients. This seed is like the individual who hears God's Word with zeal but never allows a life change to occur. This individual does not have roots that sink down into the Truths of Scripture. Interest in spiritual things last then only for a short season. I am speaking of the necessity to not only hear God's Word but believe it and receive Christ's gift of forgiveness and new life in Him.
The sower sows and some seed falls on soil but thorns also are there. Weeds and thorns compete (and usually win) for nutrients and space in gardens. The sower sows and when the seed sprouts, the life is strangled out by the thorns. This situation is the person who hears the Word of God, receives it but then allows the world, it's cares and materialism to choke out the Truths in God's Word. Jesus gives another picture of this when He says it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than it is for a rich person to enter Heaven. Why? Materialism. This view of life is idolatrous. One of the Ten Commandments tells us to have no other gods. Yet, we cling to the things of this world and it chokes the life from us.
The last soil receives the seed and is fruitful to abundance. Why? Because the seed was able to sink down roots into the good soil and grow. This soil is the person who hears God's Word, believes it and receives the gift of forgiveness and new life in Christ. This person allows her life to sink roots down into the Truths of God's Word. What does this parable promise? Fruitfulness!
So, where are we sinking our roots? Are we abiding in Christ, the Vine? Are we being rooted and grounded in God by being in His Word and in fellowship with His Body? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to renew our minds and conform us to the image of Jesus? Are we being the sweet fragrance of Christ?
I pray that we all would be actively living our faith...not because it saves (because it does NOT) but because we love the One Who came and died in our place. And on the third day, He rose again.
In Christ Jesus there will be no disappointment with the fruit. And we, in Christ Jesus, abide in His sovereignty knowing that He is using all that comes in to our lives to draw us into His likeness. Though difficulties arise, we know God remains the same. He will never forsake us. He may even deliver us out of difficulties. But if He doesn't, we can trust Him and be assured that He will see us through to the end because He loves us and we belong to Him.
Abundance and more abundance
My family and I live on a small farm. We are so blessed that our God gave us this little bit of land to be His stewards over. Though we are not full-time farmers, we have learned some about farming and can now relate a bit more easily to the agricultural parables and analogies used in Scripture.
God chose to use these agricultural stories to help us understand some deeper spiritual truths about Him. The following three Scripture passages are but a few that speak of God's abundance.
"I will send you the seasonal rains. The land will then yield its crops, and the trees of the field will produce their fruit. Your threshing season will overlap with the grape harvest, and your grape harvest will overlap with the season of planting grain. You will eat your fill and live securely in the land." Leviticus 26:4-5.
"Then the Lord will bless you with rain at the planting time. There will be wonderful harvests and pleanty of pastureland for your livestock. The oxen and donkeys that till the ground will eat good grain, its chaff blown away by the wind." Isaiah 30:23-24
"The time will come," says the Lord, "when the grain and grapes will grow faster than they can be harvested. Then the terraced vineyards on the hills of Israel will drip with sweet wine!" Amos 9:13
Farmers depend upon a time for sowing and reaping, rain, sun, seed, harvest and time for threshing. In these Scripture passages God is describing what a life restored in Him will be. His promises will be fulfilled. In the book of Leviticus, God is describing a time of such abundance that there is overlap from one season to the next-from the time of harvest of grains and threshing its bounty to the gathering of grapes until it is time to plant grain again...this agricultural description is speaking of God's abundance which is without end!
Now this promise of abundance is indeed conditional. It is to those who belong to God through Jesus Christ. To the Israelites of the time, verse 3 of Leviticus 26 states, "If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands," and is then followed by the promise of abundance. In the New Testament the following of God's decrees and obeying His commands is certainly reinforced but NOT as a way to "earn" entrance into Heaven. We obey Him out of a changed heart and is evidence of a life changed by the hand of God.
God's abundance is unending.The definition of abundance is: more than adequate quantity or supply. Abundance means that there is fullness, overflow, plenty. The Greek word we translate to abundance perissos means: in the sense beyond, super abundant in quantity, excessive, exceedingly, beyond measure.
"For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon Thee." Psalm 86:5. And Jesus said, "I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly." John 10:10(b)
Paul reminds us "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed." 2Corinthians 9:8
What do we learn from this exercise? That God is good, ready to forgive and abundant in lovingkindness (His lovingkindness is super abundant, His love is excessive). Now in todays society excessiveness is only self serving. However Scripture gives us a picture of a good kind of excessiveness. God is excessive in His abundant lovingkindness. His love toward us is beyond what we can comprehend! Now THAT is the kind of excessive we can live with!
We also learn that God is able to make His grace abound to us (His grace will be super abundant!) and that we will have this abundance for every good deed. We will have super abundance for every good deed we are called to do. God does provide.
Now if we think back to the agricultural terms used to express more about God and His kingdom, we learn that He provides all that we need and is necessary for life. Paul, inspired and compelled by the Holy Spirit writes, "All Scripture is inspired by God an profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." His Word is what we need for life. His Word gives us pictures of His character. And what we can learn from today's reading is that God is generous. He gives in abundance, according to His riches. Are we, who are His children, ready to live like children of the King? To live in His abundance, according to His riches and His mercy and His lovingkindness. I pray that it is so for each one of us.
And if you do not belong to Him, the free gift of His adoption of you is still available. God tells us that He so loved the world that He sent His Son to die in our place so we could join Him in His place. It is a free gift to repent of our sins and receive new life in Christ. Then...you too can enjoy the super abundant life in Jesus.
God chose to use these agricultural stories to help us understand some deeper spiritual truths about Him. The following three Scripture passages are but a few that speak of God's abundance.
"I will send you the seasonal rains. The land will then yield its crops, and the trees of the field will produce their fruit. Your threshing season will overlap with the grape harvest, and your grape harvest will overlap with the season of planting grain. You will eat your fill and live securely in the land." Leviticus 26:4-5.
"Then the Lord will bless you with rain at the planting time. There will be wonderful harvests and pleanty of pastureland for your livestock. The oxen and donkeys that till the ground will eat good grain, its chaff blown away by the wind." Isaiah 30:23-24
"The time will come," says the Lord, "when the grain and grapes will grow faster than they can be harvested. Then the terraced vineyards on the hills of Israel will drip with sweet wine!" Amos 9:13
Farmers depend upon a time for sowing and reaping, rain, sun, seed, harvest and time for threshing. In these Scripture passages God is describing what a life restored in Him will be. His promises will be fulfilled. In the book of Leviticus, God is describing a time of such abundance that there is overlap from one season to the next-from the time of harvest of grains and threshing its bounty to the gathering of grapes until it is time to plant grain again...this agricultural description is speaking of God's abundance which is without end!
Now this promise of abundance is indeed conditional. It is to those who belong to God through Jesus Christ. To the Israelites of the time, verse 3 of Leviticus 26 states, "If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands," and is then followed by the promise of abundance. In the New Testament the following of God's decrees and obeying His commands is certainly reinforced but NOT as a way to "earn" entrance into Heaven. We obey Him out of a changed heart and is evidence of a life changed by the hand of God.
God's abundance is unending.The definition of abundance is: more than adequate quantity or supply. Abundance means that there is fullness, overflow, plenty. The Greek word we translate to abundance perissos means: in the sense beyond, super abundant in quantity, excessive, exceedingly, beyond measure.
"For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon Thee." Psalm 86:5. And Jesus said, "I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly." John 10:10(b)
Paul reminds us "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed." 2Corinthians 9:8
What do we learn from this exercise? That God is good, ready to forgive and abundant in lovingkindness (His lovingkindness is super abundant, His love is excessive). Now in todays society excessiveness is only self serving. However Scripture gives us a picture of a good kind of excessiveness. God is excessive in His abundant lovingkindness. His love toward us is beyond what we can comprehend! Now THAT is the kind of excessive we can live with!
We also learn that God is able to make His grace abound to us (His grace will be super abundant!) and that we will have this abundance for every good deed. We will have super abundance for every good deed we are called to do. God does provide.
Now if we think back to the agricultural terms used to express more about God and His kingdom, we learn that He provides all that we need and is necessary for life. Paul, inspired and compelled by the Holy Spirit writes, "All Scripture is inspired by God an profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." His Word is what we need for life. His Word gives us pictures of His character. And what we can learn from today's reading is that God is generous. He gives in abundance, according to His riches. Are we, who are His children, ready to live like children of the King? To live in His abundance, according to His riches and His mercy and His lovingkindness. I pray that it is so for each one of us.
And if you do not belong to Him, the free gift of His adoption of you is still available. God tells us that He so loved the world that He sent His Son to die in our place so we could join Him in His place. It is a free gift to repent of our sins and receive new life in Christ. Then...you too can enjoy the super abundant life in Jesus.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Hang On
My pastor shared a story of a World War II vet whose job it was to make certain the bombs that were launched from the plane did indeed deploy. There was one event where the bomb got stuck on the doorway and this man, I will call him Joe, had to push it through. Hammer in hand, Joe began hammering on it (yes, God is merciful, isn't He?) and pushing on it. Finally the bomb released and was airborne, but so too was Joe. However, Joe was tethered to the plane and knew to hang on to the rope for his life depended on it. He swung back and forth on the tether being smashed into the bottom of the plane. Yet Joe hung on to that lifeline and used it, though disoriented, as the direction to move toward safety. Joe's crew mates slowly and agonizingly were pulling him back to safety.
This story has a spiritual application as well. Jesus Christ is our lifeline, our tether. We can do nothing in our own power to make our way to Heaven, it is by and through Jesus Christ that we are tethered to Him and our eternal destination. Yes, initially we must decide if we will grab hold of the free gift Christ offers and then hold on. The rest is already done having been accomplished at the Cross and through the resurrection of our King Jesus.
We may be battered and bruised while on this earth, yet IF we hold on to Jesus, He will never fail us. If Joe, the WWII vet, while swinging at the end of the tether, decided he no longer wanted to endure the pain and confusion of being smashed into the plane's belly, untied and let go of his tether, his lifeline to safety would have been lost and Joe perished. Joe endured the pain knowing that in the end was life.
Yes, we face pain and heartache while here on earth but we know that holding onto Jesus, His promises to us are eternal. We are being drawn Home and along the way are difficulties. If we belong to God through Christ Jesus, then all the promises of Scripture apply to us. We have indeed "grabbed" hold of the Lifeline. Each part of our life is used by our loving God, drawing us to Him and conforming us to the image of His Son. This life's sojourn is preparing us for our life with Him, face to face.
Are you ready?
Are you holding on? Are you walking with the vision of Home?
This story has a spiritual application as well. Jesus Christ is our lifeline, our tether. We can do nothing in our own power to make our way to Heaven, it is by and through Jesus Christ that we are tethered to Him and our eternal destination. Yes, initially we must decide if we will grab hold of the free gift Christ offers and then hold on. The rest is already done having been accomplished at the Cross and through the resurrection of our King Jesus.
We may be battered and bruised while on this earth, yet IF we hold on to Jesus, He will never fail us. If Joe, the WWII vet, while swinging at the end of the tether, decided he no longer wanted to endure the pain and confusion of being smashed into the plane's belly, untied and let go of his tether, his lifeline to safety would have been lost and Joe perished. Joe endured the pain knowing that in the end was life.
Yes, we face pain and heartache while here on earth but we know that holding onto Jesus, His promises to us are eternal. We are being drawn Home and along the way are difficulties. If we belong to God through Christ Jesus, then all the promises of Scripture apply to us. We have indeed "grabbed" hold of the Lifeline. Each part of our life is used by our loving God, drawing us to Him and conforming us to the image of His Son. This life's sojourn is preparing us for our life with Him, face to face.
Are you ready?
Are you holding on? Are you walking with the vision of Home?
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