Seeking Him! (part 2 of 2)

Yesterday we noted how we ought to seek the Lord while we still have the opportunity. Through Isaiah we find further reason from the Lord for seeking Him.

Note again the exhortation of God through the prophet Isaiah.
“(6) SEEK THE LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; (7) LET THE WICKED FORSAKE HIS WAY, and THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAN HIS THOUGHTS; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. (8) For MY THOUGHTS ARE NOT YOUR THOUGHTS, NEITHER ARE YOUR WAYS MY WAYS, declares the Lord. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are MY WAYS HIGHER THAN YOUR WAYS AND MY THOUGHTS THAN YOUR THOUGHTS.” (Isaiah 55:6-9 ESV)

All the ways and all the thoughts of mankind are not on an equal plane. The contrasts vary greatly from a range between basic right and wrong to the expanse between foolishness and genius. But the contrast between God and mankind is even greater. There is a huge contrast between our thoughts and God’s thoughts and our ways and His ways. His are much HIGHER. Even Paul pointed out that man, in his search for wisdom and self-sufficiency, needed to recognize that “…the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” (1 Corinthians 1:25 ESV) Paul’s statement seems to have implied the greatest contrast possible. God simply OUTCLASSES us in every way! All this logically points to the wisdom of continuing to seek the exceeding HIGHER ways and thoughts of God. Left to our own ways and thoughts we will be lost.

As we look up to view how high the heavens are above the earth, let us be reminded to continue looking up to the ways and thoughts of God. Diligently seeking His HIGH ways and LOFTY thoughts will continue to draw us toward the HIGHER calling we have received from Him and ultimately our HIGHEST eternal blessings above.

Have a great day SEEKING THE SUPERIOR WAY AND WISDOM OF GOD!
Carl

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Seeking Him! (part 1 of 2)

Man makes promises and sometimes either forgets he has made them or just simply fails to follow through. Not so with God. As Israel had moved in to take over the territory of the promised land, there was not one of the promises God had made that failed to come to pass. (Joshua 21:45) What God has said, He will do (Numbers 23:19) and that goes just as much for His warnings as His promises.

When Jesus taught to seek and we would find (Matthew 7:7-8), the action was attached to a promise we can count on. Are we actively seeking? Are we seeking that which is worth seeking?

Note Isaiah’s exhortation to the people of God.
“(6) SEEK THE LORD WHILE HE MAY BE FOUND; call upon him while he is near; (7) let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. (8) For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:6-9 ESV)

We ought to be sure we are seeking the Lord. His Will, not ours, should be what is most important to us. But according to Isaiah’s statement here, it appears a time may come when the OPPORTUNITY to seek Him might be lost.
Today we should be diligently seeking God and His Will. We may not have the OPPORTUNITY tomorrow. We must recognize this to be one thing we dare not put off. Felix was going to wait for a more OPPORTUNE time. (Acts 24:25) It doesn’t appear that such a time ever really came for him. He should have seized the OPPORTUNITY afforded him by Paul. King Agrippa also had an OPPORTUNITY. (Acts 26:28) Throughout the Scriptures we find some who took advantage of the OPPORTUNITY to learn about and seek the things of God while others put it off, and it is no different today.

Let us be sure we continue to seek the Lord while He may be found; while He still provides us with the OPPORTUNITY to find Him. And may we help others, as well, to understand the urgency of seizing the OPPORTUNITY they now have. For the time will come when we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:10)

Tomorrow, Lord willing, we will note further reason mentioned in the above passage from Isaiah for seeking the Lord. But for today, let us be sure we are diligently seeking the Lord and His Will. Presently it is the only OPPORTUNITY we have.

Have a great day FINDING GOD’S BLESSING THROUGH SEEKING HIS WILL!
Carl

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Spiritual Agility!

When we first began walking we took “baby steps”. But as we began to grow we started taking larger and quicker steps until we were finally able to walk with greater confidence, leap, and even run. Spiritual growth develops similarly. When we first began to believe we recognized the need for faith, but our faith needed to mature. Though we were encouraged from the Scriptures that even mustard seed size faith is powerful (Luke 17:6), greater faith was still the goal. Therefore, as we began to walk with Jesus our steps might have been considered “baby steps” compared with how we walk spiritually today. Just as we were expected to develop physical agility as we grew, spiritual agility increases as we move further from “baby steps” to taking more confident FAITH STEPS.

Paul exhorted…
“FOR WE WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT.” (2 Corinthians 5:7 ESV)
The longer we walk with the Lord, the greater our faith should develop.
Growing up in our faith we can gradually begin to walk with more confident FAITH STEPS even when we don’t see as clearly as we might desire.

One of the great examples of one who walked with FAITH STEPS is Abraham.
How agile was he in his spiritual walk with God? He followed without knowing all the details. He trusted God to guide him and fulfill every promise He had made. Abraham even seemed, at times, to be willing to take a leap of faith, trusting God to bring everything together even when the odds appeared to be against the possibility! (i.e. Romans 4:18 & Hebrews 11:17-19) And because Abraham believed God it was counted to him as righteousness. (James
2:23)

There were some who tried to align themselves with Abraham who did not walk as he did. (John 8:39) Had they been taking FAITH STEPS like Abraham, they would have accepted Jesus as the glorious fulfillment of the promise made to him.

In his letter to the church at Rome, Paul drew attention to the walk of Abraham as he wrote…
“(11) He [Abraham] received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had BY FAITH while he was still uncircumcised. The purpose was to make him THE FATHER OF ALL WHO BELIEVE without being circumcised, so that righteousness would be counted to them as well, (12) and to make him the father of the circumcised who are not merely circumcised but WHO ALSO WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE FAITH THAT OUR FATHER ABRAHAM HAD before he was circumcised.” (Romans 4:11-12 ESV)

FAITH STEPS! Abraham took them. Paul took them. We can read of others throughout the Scriptures who took them. And, like them, we have been called to “walk in the FOOTSTEPS OF THE FAITH” of Abraham. May we diligently seek to develop the spiritual agility displayed in the lives of those who learned God is completely worthy of an unquestioning trusting faith.

Have a great day CONTINUING TO DEVELOP GREAT SPIRITUAL STAMINA!
Carl

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A Quick Remedy!

Some remedies take time to work through our system to do their job. But what we often look for are remedies that bring quick relief to an ailment. Someone has suggested the following cure for the malady of CONCEIT. “The best remedy for conceit is to sit down and make a list of all the things you don’t know.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

The more I learn, the more I also seem to find out I don’t know. It is important for us to be humble enough to admit when we don’t really know. Though there may be much that we do know and can know for sure, there is still much which may remain a mystery to us. Job had friends who seemed to have thought they knew more than they really did. They felt they had Job’s situation all figured out and were angry and condemning of Job for not accepting their “wisdom.” In the end, God told these friends to go to Job with sacrifices to offer and have Job pray for them because they had not spoken of God what was right. (Job 42:7-9)

Paul cautioned the church at Corinth…
“(1) Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” THIS ‘KNOWLEDGE’ PUFFS UP, but love builds up. (2) IF ANYONE IMAGINES THAT HE KNOWS SOMETHING, HE DOES NOT YET KNOW AS HE OUGHT TO KNOW.” (1 Corinthians 8:1-2 ESV)

The second verse in the New Living Translation reads… “Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much.”

Part of the problem in Corinth related to the knowledge of idols, meat offered to them, and whether to eat or not to eat. But that knowledge was not being approached in a loving manner between the strong and the weak. It appears some condemning was taking place on both sides of the issue. As Paul clarified the issue he pointed to the need for a proper handling of knowledge.

Even what we know may not be used in the wisest or most loving way. What we do with our knowledge is important. But we must guard against speaking of God and His Will with an air of ARROGANCE as if we had it all figured out. We need to be careful of the way in which we might “package” our explanations, guarding against taking one passage to overshadow another when we should recognize how all of God’s Word fits together. Always considering context, who was speaking, and to whom it was being spoken is also important to bear in mind. As we continue to seek a “thus saith the Lord” in response to issues and situations, we must do so in a spirit of humility and love.

James exhorted…
“Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and RECEIVE WITH MEEKNESS THE IMPLANTED WORD, WHICH IS ABLE TO SAVE YOUR SOULS.” (James 1:21 ESV)

Let us hold firmly to what we do know while continuing to pursue further knowledge of God’s Will. However, let us be humble enough to admit what we may not know for certain as we continually turn to His Word with an open heart and mind.

Have a great day HUMBLY RECEIVING AND SHARING GOD’S TRUTHS!
Carl

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Vented Anger!

Perhaps we are all familiar with the proverbial statement: “If you’re mad at the dog, don’t kick the cat.” Too often anger and frustration are vented upon the undeserving. However, the tendency is not new to this day and age.

Asa, king of Judah, for the most part was a good king. (2 Chronicles
14:2) He sought after God and led the nation to commit to God as well. (2 Chronicles 15:15) When he was faced with an army of a million men and 300 chariots, he relied on the Lord and was given a great victory. (2 Chronicles
14:9-12) Later on, however, he relied upon the help of Ben-hadad, king of Syria, instead of God. (2 Chronicles 16:1-4) Asa was confronted by Hanani the seer who rebuked the king for having relied upon the king of Syria instead of the Lord. (2 Chronicles 16:7) Being reminded of the earlier victory over the Ethiopians and the Libyans when he had depended upon God, it was pointed out to Asa that from then on he would be at war (2 Chronicles
16:8-9) instead of enjoying the peace earlier experienced. (2 Chronicles
15:15)

So, having acted “foolishly” (2 Chronicles 16:9), what was Asa’s response?
“Then Asa was ANGRY WITH THE SEER AND PUT HIM IN THE STOCKS IN PRISON, for he was IN A RAGE WITH HIM because of this. AND ASA INFLICTED CRUELTIES UPON SOME OF THE PEOPLE AT THE SAME TIME.” (2 Chronicles 16:10
ESV)

Mad at the dog and kicking the cat! Instead of kicking himself for his foolish decision, Asa vented his rage on God’s messenger and upon some of the people as well. Do we ever find ourselves struggling with the same tendency? Mad about something at school and the anger is vented on a brother or sister! Upset with things at work and the frustration is taken out on the family! Etc.

Perhaps we need to be reminded to humbly focus on James’ admonition.
“(19) Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be QUICK TO HEAR, SLOW TO SPEAK, SLOW TO ANGER; (20) for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness that God requires.” (James 1:19-20 ESV)

Rage vented, as in the case of Asa, circumvents the righteousness God desires to be displayed in our life. Such action is a sign we have failed to ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY for our own actions. Therefore, when we are feeling “dogged”, let us not be “catty” with others, especially when failing to HONESTLY ACKNOWLEDGE our own wrong actions. I recently purchased a placard which reads: “TEMPER is what gets most of us in trouble … PRIDE is what keeps us there.” If we need to be mad at ourselves for something, let us be mad at ourselves rather than taking it out on others. May we seek to live righteously by keeping our anger in check.

Have a great day LISTENING HUMBLY AND ACTING RIGHTEOUSLY!
Carl

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Blessed Power To Yield To!

In the beginning we read that God created, out of nothing, this world in which we live. (Genesis 1:1-2) Then we read that God created man from the dust of the ground and breathed into him the breath of LIFE. (Genesis 2:7) And Ezekiel was set in the middle of a valley full of dry bones where he was told to preach and gradually LIFE came to a great army. (Ezekiel 37:1-10) [Oh to be able to preach such a powerful sermon as Ezekiel did that day.] The encouragement from God through Ezekiel was for the nation of Israel, who felt their hope was lost (Ezekiel 37:11), to understand LIFE could be RESTORED. (Ezekiel 37:14)

What does all this tell us about God’s ability? Our God has the ability to make something out of nothing, make something from that which is not much, and to bring LIFE back to that which had seen decay. It is a LIFE GIVING POWER that seems to meet no obstacle that cannot be overcome except, perhaps, the resistance and unbelief of mankind.

God has a power to work in our lives to which we should be eager to yield. God still seeks to use that LIFE GIVING POWER to bring renewal to us.

In our relationship in Christ we have been taught…
“(22) to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, (23) and to BE RENEWED IN THE SPIRIT OF YOUR MINDS, (24) and to put on THE NEW SELF, CREATED AFTER THE LIKENESS OF GOD IN TRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS.” (Ephesians 4:22-24 ESV)

And Paul wrote to the church at Rome…
“If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, HE WHO RAISED CHRIST JESUS FROM THE DEAD WILL ALSO GIVE LIFE TO YOUR MORTAL BODIES THROUGH HIS SPIRIT WHO DWELLS IN YOU.” (Romans 8:11 ESV)

God’s desire appears to have always been about bringing, renewing, and sustaining LIFE! However, we must bear in mind that it is only in our relationship to Him through the Lord Jesus Christ that we can come to have this true LIFE now and for eternity. May we earnestly seek to remain with Him that His LIFE GIVING POWER may remain in us.

Have a great day ALLOWING GOD’S TRANSFORMING POWER TO DO ITS WORK!
Carl

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Notebooks!

Some people like journaling. Their daily writings become a record of things such as activities and accomplishments, thoughts and meditations, prayers and the answers to them, etc. Such writings may be deeply personal at the time of their writing, but if passed on to the next generations, they may become a wonderful glimpse into THE LIFE of an ancestor.

Books for journaling come in a variety of styles today (hardbound, spiral bound, loose leaf, etc.) to make the process easy and worth preserving. However, there is a record where our LIFE and its activities are noted, and we ought to give serious consideration to what has been written there.

The statement has been made that some people have recorded their daily activities in a “loose life” note book. [source: adapted from “1600 Squibs And Quips” compiled, by E. C. McKenzie]

John the Revelator referred to the opening of books worthy of serious consideration.
“And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and BOOKS WERE OPENED. THEN ANOTHER BOOK WAS OPENED, WHICH IS THE BOOK OF LIFE. AND THE DEAD WERE JUDGED BY WHAT WAS WRITTEN IN THE BOOKS, ACCORDING TO WHAT THEY HAD DONE.” (Revelation 20:12 ESV)

There may be biographies and autobiographies -- books all written about THE LIFE of individuals -- but it is God’s record that counts the most. And the book to be sure our name is in is the “LAMB’S BOOK OF LIFE” (Revelation 21:27). If our name is not there, we will find ourselves on the wrong side of judgment. (Revelation 20:15) However, if we are in Christ, we are assured of the removal of condemnation. (Romans 8:1)

Though we may keep a journal of our LIFE activities here, may we live in a manner that the journal kept above will be a story worth reading and, most of all, pleasing to God. Let us remain steadfast in Christ that our name may be found in His glorious BOOK OF LIFE.

Have a great day MINDFUL OF BEING IN THE BEST BOOK!
Carl

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Fair Response!

A reality of life is that things are not always fair. Though sometimes a harsh reality and one difficult to help children understand, it is nonetheless a fact of life in this realm. Our interest in fairness may most often be with regard to ourselves. However, how well do we focus on what is fair with regard to others? Someone has stated, “The test of your fairness is how fair you are to those who are not.” [source: calendar quote] Most often, when one wants to “even the score” with another who has been unkind or unfair, it does not work out to be “tit for tat”, but rather a little bit more than what was received.

Under the old law, even the ox or donkey of an enemy were to be returned or rescued from a burden that caused them to fall. (Exodus 23:4-5) Consideration was to be given and good was to be done even for an enemy. Inaction was not to take place in an attempt to get even. The encouragement was to DO GOOD in spite of the actions of another.

In Proverbs we read…
“(17) DO NOT REJOICE WHEN YOUR ENEMY FALLS, and LET NOT YOUR HEART BE GLAD WHEN HE STUMBLES, (18) lest the Lord see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him.” (Proverbs 24:17-18 ESV)

Though the inclination might be a desire to “even the score”, the exhortation was to not even rejoice though it might appear they were getting what they deserved. What was truly deserved was to be left in the hands of God.

Later in the same chapter we read…
“DO NOT SAY, ‘I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for what he has done.’” (Proverbs 24:29 ESV)

Paul also exhorted…
“SEE THAT NO ONE REPAYS ANYONE EVIL FOR EVIL, BUT ALWAYS SEEK TO DO GOOD TO ONE ANOTHER AND TO EVERYONE.” (1 Thessalonians 5:15 ESV)

In the eyes of God, the fair response is simply to DO GOOD regardless of who it is and what they have done. Paul encouraged those at Rome with the same idea. (Romans 12:17-21), including the exhortation to DO GOOD. Remember God Himself causes His sun to shine and the rain to fall on both the just and the unjust. (Matthew 5:45) Besides that, has not God been more than fair with us, not treating us as our own sins deserve? If we are going to be like Him we must continue to be willing to DO GOOD regardless of what others have done. May we seek to always respond in a way that both glorifies God and has potential benefit for others.

Have a great day PASSING THE TRUE TEST OF FAIRNESS!
Carl

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Attitude in Generosity!

What is one good reason for us to have a generous spirit? Perhaps the foremost reason should be because we have a generous Heavenly Father. Do we give that much consideration when we open our hearts and hands to give of what we have?

Though David was not to be the one to build the Temple for the Lord, he made much preparation for all that would be used by his son Solomon in the building. David gave generously of his own possessions and encouraged the same from others. And the giving was done WILLINGLY and WHOLEHEARTEDLY (1 Chronicles 29:9) as well as JOYOUSLY. (1 Chronicles 29:17) Those are proper attitudes to be associated with our giving. (note also 2 Corinthians 9:7) There is, however, another attitude which sometimes raises its head when giving takes place, and that is one of boasting. Though David personally gave much himself (1 Chronicles 29:3-5), as did others (1 Chronicles 29:6-8), did David draw attention to the giving as if to brag?

Note David’s attitude expressed in his own words in a prayer to God.
“(14) But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For ALL THINGS COME FROM YOU, AND OF YOUR OWN HAVE WE GIVEN YOU. (15) For we are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding. (16) O LORD our God, ALL THIS ABUNDANCE THAT WE HAVE PROVIDED for building you a house for your holy name COMES FROM YOUR HAND AND IS ALL YOUR OWN.” (1 Chronicles 29:14-16 ESV)

The giving had been very generous. The quantity did not appear small.
However, where was the boasting in David’s words? There was none. “Who am I, and what is my people?” he asked. This was a very HUMBLE acknowledgment of God’s greatness in comparison with an admission of man’s smallness of what he was or could offer. They were words void of any bragging of generosity.
What was given was from what God had so richly provided by His own hand.

As we focus on God’s great generosity toward us -- honestly acknowledging that all we have to give is from Him anyway -- our giving should be WILLINGLY, WHOLEHEARTEDLY, JOYOUSLY, and HUMBLY. There should also be an attitude of THANKFULNESS that God has blessed us so that we have something we can give.

David prayed for this proper spirit in giving to continue. (1 Chronicles
29:18) May that also be true with us as we continue to remember we are merely stewards of the blessings entrusted to us by God. Let Him be glorified by our WILLING, WHOLEHEARTED, JOYOUS, HUMBLE, and GRATEFUL attitude, as well as in the use of what we give.

Have a great day UNDERSTANDING TRUE HUMILITY IN GIVING!
Carl

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Clothed To Press On!

“Shall we ask Pete to play golf with us today?” one golfer asked another golfing buddy. “No,” was the reply, “he always golfs in the seventies.” “He’
s that good?” “No, he doesn’t like to play golf when it is hotter or colder than the seventies.”

Now there is a “fair weather” golfer. Since the weather is not something we have control over, we adjust our activities or dress accordingly. However, there are perhaps some things we may just decide not to do when the weather is not to our liking.

Today was one of those days when I was tempted to not walk. I could hear the rain when I got up this morning and it just wasn’t letting up. Saturdays are one of my two high mileage days of the week and I didn’t want to break from my routine. Therefore, I hooded up and headed out in spite of the weather. As I walked in the continuing rain I must admit I was tempted to cut my walk short. Nevertheless, I stuck it out and got in a good twelve mile walk.

Though I may not be a “fair weather” walker, more importantly I must consider whether or not I am a “fair weather” Christian. We cannot always control the CLIMATE in which we find our lives, yet must still be prepared to press on anyway.

Paul was definitely not a “fair weather” Christian. If he had waited for the CLIMATE around him to be ideal for his ministry, how much would he have accomplished for the Lord? Paul pressed on in the face of the coldness of desertion (2 Timothy 1:15; 4:10 & 16) and exposure to the elements (2 Corinthians 11:27) and also through the heat of persecution. (2 Corinthians 11:24-25) He had a remarkable ability to press on faithfully no matter what the CLIMATE of the situation.

Just as we cannot control the weather and must therefore dress accordingly so that we can get done what needs to be done -- so it is in our spiritual walk as Christians. Regardless of the CLIMATE in which we find ourselves we must seek to be dressed in a manner that enables us to press on anyway.

Paul urged the Colossian brethren…
“(12) PUT ON THEN, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, COMPASSION, KINDNESS, HUMILITY, MEEKNESS, and PATIENCE, (13) bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, FORGIVING each other; AS THE LORD HAS FORGIVEN YOU, so you also must forgive. (14) AND ABOVE ALL THESE PUT ON LOVE, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” (Colossians 3:12-14 ESV)

The Greek translated “put on” is from “enduo” which signifies to enter into or get into as one would get into clothes. The NIV translates Paul’s urging here as to “clothe yourselves” with the qualities he went on to list. With our lives clothed in such a manner we may possess a disposition that serves to keep us cool when things heat up and warm when feeling the coldness of the world around us. May we be so clothed that we will be prepared to press on faithfully in service to God regardless of the CLIMATE in which we might find ourselves.

Have a great day PREPARED TO KEEP ON KEEPING ON IN CHRIST!
Carl

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A Partnership!

Partnerships we make with others are important. They need to be made wisely so as to strengthen rather than detract from godly living. Partnerships need to be honorable in the eyes of God and man. However, there are also partnerships within ourselves that must be made to be effective to the glory of God.

Someone has said, “Ambition never gets anywhere until it forms a partnership with work.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

We may set a goal. We may possess an aim. But what good is AMBITION without ACTION? Without ACTION there could be real question as to whether or not there is any AMBITION at all!

Paul exhorted the Christians at Thessalonica to continue in their love for one another…
“(11) and TO ASPIRE TO LIVE QUIETLY, and to MIND YOUR OWN AFFAIRS, and to WORK WITH YOUR HANDS, as we instructed you, (12) so that you may live properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.” (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 ESV)

The Greek translated in the ESV “to aspire” is a word which points to striving, being ambitious, or aiming. I think it is interesting that the KJV translates it “study”. Perhaps the idea behind that translation was to suggest the intensity of the focus. It was not a glance, but rather a deep look. The Greek word itself (“philotimeomai”) is a compound of “phileo” (brotherly love) and “time” (honor). Therefore, according to Strongs’s Lexicon, this could be literally translated as “to be fond of honor”.

Worthy AMBITION is honored when it is ACTED upon. And our AMBITION needs to be associated with worthy aims and actions. The way we live says something to those around us. We should be AMBITIOUS to live properly; involved in WORKS which reveal God’s Wisdom and Will. If we “love honor”, we ought to live to receive the honor of God for AIMING and ACTING honorably in all things in life. May we continually seek to make the partnership between AMBITION and ACTION honorable.

Have a great day AIMING AND ACTING HONORABLY BEFORE GOD AND MAN!
Carl

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Happiness Is...!

Happiness is…! There may be innumerable ways to complete that statement; some we might agree with and others we might not. Bumper stickers and posters have displayed such things as “… driving a sports car”, “…having a full stomach”, “…winning the lottery”, “…getting even with your boss”, etc.
However, happiness associated with such things is short lived. We must understand that happiness is more a state of mind than it is a thing to accomplish or get. Happiness is a byproduct of a properly focused and lived life.

Someone has stated, “Happiness is never stopping to think if you are.”
[source: calendar quote]

If we have to stop and ask ourselves if we are happy, it may mean we have not focused on life as we should. We may have attached our happiness to things and good circumstances and situations rather than the important and lasting things of God. And unless we truly recognize what life associated with God is all about, there is nothing this world can offer that can truly bring us lasting happiness.

What was to be enough to bring happiness to Israel?
“HAPPY ARE YOU, O Israel! Who is like you, A PEOPLE SAVED BY THE LORD, the shield of your help, and the sword of your triumph! Your enemies shall come fawning to you, and you shall tread upon their backs.”
(Deuteronomy 33:29 ESV)

BEING SAVED. Does that thought bring us a sense of happiness? Does it fill us with a sense of lasting joy? Is there a true sense of satisfaction and worth of living righteously associated with being SAVED BY THE LORD?

Peter encouraged with reference to faith in our relationship with Christ…
“(8) Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and REJOICE WITH JOY THAT IS INEXPRESSIBLE and filled with glory, (9) OBTAINING THE OUTCOME OF YOUR FAITH, THE SALVATION OF YOUR SOULS.” (1 Peter 1:8-9 ESV)

Other translations refer to the salvation as the “end” (ASV, KJV) or “goal” (NIV) of faith. When SALVATION is the end or goal we have in mind and we have accepted the assurance of it, the byproduct of such a life will be a deep and abiding happiness like no other that can be experienced in this realm. May we retain a proper perspective that brings us the abiding happiness God desires us to possess.

Have a great day TRULY HAPPY IN THE LORD!
Carl

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A Need!

We need teachers. We need people who can offer us counsel from time to time. We need people who help us maintain a proper focus and direction in life. We need people. We need each other. We must seek to gain associations where such needs can be fulfilled.

Reading through the list of those who were leaders and given the oversight over various things during the time of King David reveals some very good organization was in place. The responsibilities ranged from oversight of those in charge of the donkeys to gate keepers to involvement in leading worship to priestly duties and everything in between. There were many individuals involved in service on behalf of David. However, toward the end of several chapters of such listings I was struck by a statement in the last three verses of 1 Chronicles 27.

“(32) Jonathan, David’s uncle, was A COUNSELOR, being a man of understanding and a scribe. He and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni attended the king’s sons. (33) Ahithophel was THE KING’S COUNSELOR, and Hushai the Archite was THE KING’S FRIEND. (34) Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar. Joab was commander of the king’s army.” (1 Chronicles 27:32-34 ESV)

Besides David’s uncle mentioned as a counselor because of his great understanding and his being a scribe, there was also mention of another as the King’s counselor. But did you note the reference to Hushai? He was noted as David’s FRIEND. (also mentioned in 2 Samuel 15:37) No matter what position one may hold there is always the need for a close FRIEND. Even Jesus seemed to have a closer relationship to Peter, James, and John than He did with the rest of the disciples, and besides that, an even closer one with John.

According to Strong’s Lexicon, the Hebrew word translated here as “FRIEND” is a designation which can refer to a “friend” or “companion” or “fellow”. It is a word used in conjunction with a close intimate relationship as well as a general reference to a fellow-citizen. Even in English we use the word friendship in the sense that we may have many friends (associations) while at the same time having a few who are very close and dear. The context here seems to imply, with regard to Hushai, that he had a close FRIENDSHIP with DAVID. How sad it is for those who have no one they consider to be a close FRIEND.

We can have teachers and counselors from whom we gain much in life, but there is just no substitute for the presence of a FRIEND who will be there for us through thick and thin. We need FRIENDS. We need close FRIENDS.
However, we need to seek for them to be godly FRIENDS for the relationship to be of maximum benefit. May we strive to be the kind of FRIEND others need while at the same time thanking God for the close FRIENDS who are there to pick us up when we are down and rejoice with us when we are up.

Have a great day APPRECIATING THE RELATIONSHIPS GOD PROVIDES!
Carl

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Where Am I?

We may sing with exuberance that grand old hymn by J. S. Torbett that goes… “I’m in the way, the bright and shining way, I’m in the Glory Land way (Glory Land way)….” However, there is perhaps another way which may sometimes be more fittingly sung (personally) and that is simply “I’m in the way!” When I am having difficulties and become anxious about life it is generally because SELF is in the way. How often do you also find that to be true?

As I was walking this morning I continued to reflect on some of the passages from my morning Bible reading. Having read through the second chapter of Romans I was reminded of the need to keep SELF in its place so that the Lord can retain His rightful place in my life.

In reference to God, Paul exhorted…
“(6) He will render to each one according to his works: (7) to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; (8) but FOR THOSE WHO ARE SELF-SEEKING AND DO NOT OBEY THE TRUTH, but obey unrighteousness, THERE WILL BE WRATH AND FURY.”
(Romans 2:6-8 ESV)

To seek true glory, honor and immortality is to be sincerely seeking the things of God. If we are SELF-seeking we will find great difficulty keeping on track with His Way. We cannot make it on our own. We cannot save ourselves. If we could, Jesus need not to have given His life for us. But linked to His crucifixion for us also needs to be our own.

Paul stated, “I have been CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST.” (Galatians 2:19 ESV) When he was seeking a righteousness of his own he was a persecutor of Christians. Paul and his zeal for what he thought to be right got in the way. But when he died to SELF he was able to allow the Lord to reign as the sovereign in his life to direct his steps.

Paul went on to state…
“It is NO LONGER I WHO LIVE, BUT CHRIST WHO LIVES IN ME. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 ESV)

Jesus Himself taught…
“Whoever finds his life will lose it, and WHOEVER LOSES HIS LIFE FOR MY SAKE WILL FIND IT.” (Matthew 10:39 ESV)

It is in Christ that we find life, find it abundantly, and will find it preserved for a glorious eternity. May we strive to keep SELF out of the way so that we may properly remain in His Way.

Have a great day ALLOWING THE LORD TO BE YOUR LIFE!
Carl

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My Freedom!

We enjoy freedom. Most people seem to generally like as few restrictions placed upon them as possible. Do we delight in being able to choose rather than having choices made for us? As much as we may cherish freedom we must always bear in mind that with it comes RESPONSIBILITY.

Someone has noted, “Under the Constitution of the United States every man has the right to make a fool of himself as he sees fit.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips” compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

It is true we have the freedom to choose to live foolishly or wisely. What do we see fit? It is important to remember that whatever we choose we must bear the RESPONSIBILITY for the ramifications in our life.

History has shown that mankind has not done very well when left to be a law unto himself. Without guidelines to provide some sense of order we would have chaos. And we will have chaos within our own life if it is not put in order in accordance with God’s Will.

As Peter exhorted regarding submission to authorities and proper conduct of life, he encouraged…
“(15) For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. (16) LIVE AS PEOPLE WHO ARE FREE, NOT USING YOUR FREEDOM AS A COVER-UP FOR EVIL, BUT LIVING AS SERVANTS OF GOD.” (1 Peter 2:15-16)

The grace of God and our freedom to choose is not to be considered freedom to sin. We must live RESPONSIBLY within the boundaries of the freedom we have in Christ. As Christians we do have an obligation and that is to live as citizens of God’s kingdom. We are to appreciate our true freedom, but at the same time live as servants (or more literally
“bondservants”) of God.

We have the freedom to choose our Master. Praise God He has given us the opportunity to be free to be His bondservants, living to do as He sees fit. It is both the RESPONSIBLE and wise way to live.

Have a great day ENJOYING LIFE AS A SERVANT OF GOD!
Carl

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Clearing My Vision!

Yesterday I went through much of the day feeling like I had something in MY EYE. Looking around was fine, but whenever I closed MY EYES it felt like there was something under my left eyelid rubbing against MY EYE. I wasn’t sure if while we had watched our local Rhody Festival parade something had blown into my eye and was still there or if I had merely irritated MY EYE from rubbing it after something had been. Finally, late in the evening, I asked my wife if she would take a look. I would not have been comfortable with my wife poking around MY EYE while something obstructed her vision. However, the first thing she did was to go get her glasses and then a flashlight so she could clearly see to help. She knew her own vision was going to be important for the task.

Jesus rebuked those who took a critical view of others while failing to do the same for themselves. He even illustrated His point in an almost humorous (or tongue in cheek) manner. However, the problem He addressed was quite serious and unfortunately far too common.

As Jesus was teaching against a fault-finding spirit, He asked and exhorted…
“(3) Why do you SEE THE SPECK that is in your brother’s eye, BUT DO NOT NOTICE THE LOG that is in your own eye? (4) Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? (5) You hypocrite, FIRST TAKE THE LOG OUT OF YOUR OWN EYE, AND THEN YOU WILL SEE CLEARLY TO TAKE THE SPECK OUT OF YOUR BROTHER’S EYE.” (Matthew 7:3-5 ESV)

Jesus’ illustration pictured those who would tend to magnify the faults of others while minimizing their own. How often do people have excuses ready for themselves, but leave no excuse for others? It is often too easy to look around our own faults while seeing so clearly the faults of others. Even David quickly became angry when a situation was revealed to him by Nathan, even stating that such a one deserved to die. However, Nathan immediately made it clear to David that it was David’s own sin that was so great. (2 Samuel 12:1-10)

We cannot help others while blinded to our own sin. Besides, why should we expect others to be receptive to our efforts to help them with their struggles when there is no apparent effort to deal with our own shortcomings? An honest estimation of ourselves may surprise us, but it should also serve to humble us.

Note Jesus did not say, “Don’t help your brother.” The speck was not to be completely ignored. The speck was still a speck to be dealt with. However, self is to be dealt with in the process so as to be able to more adequately see to help another. Dealing with the log in our OWN EYE will allow us to see more clearly.

As we honestly deal with the logs in our own life we will develop the gentleness, humility, and patience necessary in lovingly aiding others with their speck. May we be humble enough to develop the vision that will benefit both our life and the life of those around us.

Have a great day SEEING AS GOD WOULD HAVE US!
Carl

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Let Them Be Seen!

Some things seem to be better said than done. Though hearing and seeing are both important means of conveying truth, is there perhaps a sense in which some things are better done than said?

Someone has said, “The world today is hearing too many sermons and seeing too few.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie.

That appears to actually be nothing new. Even Jesus addressed the problem.
“(1) Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, (2)‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, (3) so practice and observe whatever they tell you -- but not what they do. For THEY PREACH, BUT DO NOT PRACTICE.’” (Matthew 23:1-3 ESV)

It appears what Jesus had in mind that was being taught by the Jewish teachers was true since He encouraged His listeners to put those things into PRACTICE. What was missing, however, was the PRACTICE of those spiritual truths being EXEMPLIFIED in these teacher’s lives. Though they taught the principles of God’s law, they were not living in accordance with them. These teachers were not allowing their lives to ILLUSTRATE the manner of life God’ s message was all about. While emphasizing some of the minutest details of the law, they were missing some much weightier things (Matthew 23:23-24) and Jesus likened their approach to straining out gnats and swallowing camels.

When it comes to the truth of God’s Word, both the hearing and the seeing are important. However, those truths being EXEMPLIFIED in our life can be, in itself, a dynamic means of teaching. Let us live in such a way that others may see, in ACTION, the wisdom of God’s truth for life. This will make what we say much more believable. May we continually bear in mind the way we live our daily lives has the potential of powerfully illustrating how practical God’s principles for life truly are.

Have a great day BEING A LIVING SERMON FOR THOSE AROUND US!
Carl

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Seeking Escape!

As Paul was being taken to Rome where he would stand trial in Caesar’s court -- since he had appealed to Caesar (Acts 25:11-12; 26:30-32) -- he ended up on a ship that found itself in the midst of a terrible storm. (Acts 27) Sailors aboard ship, recognizing the peril they were in, decided they needed to make an escape and began to lower the lifeboat under the pretense of letting down anchors from the bow of the ship. (Acts 27:30) It had already been revealed to Paul that there would be the suffering of the loss of the ship and its cargo. (Acts 27:21-26) However, there would be no loss of life, provided everyone REMAINED with the ship. (Acts 27:31)

Venturing out on our own, trying to save ourselves by our own means or any means other than what God has determined, will not provide for our rescue. God has revealed the only means of our salvation (Acts 4:12) and unless we REMAIN with Him we cannot be saved.

Peter encouraged regarding God’s great blessing…
“(3) His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, (4) by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that THROUGH THEM YOU MAY BECOME PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE, HAVING ESCAPED FROM THE CORRUPTION THAT IS IN THE WORLD because of sinful desire.” (2 Peter 1:3-4 ESV)

It matters not how big the storm. What we need to focus on is how big our God is. His Divine power offers the adequate means of providing for our escape from corruption and to receive salvation in Christ. If we faithfully REMAIN firm, enduring to the end, we will be saved. (Matthew 24:12-13) Jesus said so!

Have a great day STAYING WITH THE DELIVERANCE GOD PROVIDES!
Carl

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A Lamentable Situation!

Contrary to what some think, ignorance is not bliss! Someone has said, “A man doesn’t always get paid for what he knows, but he seldom escapes paying for what he doesn’t know.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

People are not always paid according to their ability and knowledge. Perhaps such individuals feel there is a LACK OF APPRECIATION for what they have to offer. However, there are things which, when not known, may cause one to pay dearly.

Through the prophet Hosea, God lamented…
“MY PEOPLE ARE DESTROYED FOR LACK OF KNOWLEDGE; because YOU HAVE REJECTED KNOWLEDGE, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.” (Hosea 4:6 ESV)

The problem was not that knowledge was unavailable. Rather, the knowledge extended was rejected. The Law had been given through Moses. God had sent His prophets. But again and again the nation turned away from God’s Will.

The prophet Jeremiah made another lamentable reference.
“To whom shall I speak and give warning, that they may hear? Behold, their ears are uncircumcised, they cannot listen; behold, THE WORD OF THE LORD IS TO THEM AN OBJECT OF SCORN; they take no pleasure in it.” (Jeremiah 6:10 ESV)

God’s people had a LACK OF APPRECIATION for His guidance and wisdom. They turned a deaf ear to what God had to offer and would therefore pay the price for their refusal to listen.

As Paul spoke in the Areopagus in Athens, he warned…
“(30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, BUT NOW HE COMMANDS ALL PEOPLE EVERYWHERE TO REPENT, (31) BECAUSE HE HAS FIXED A DAY ON WHICH HE WILL JUDGE THE WORLD IN RIGHTEOUSNESS by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” (Acts 17:30-31 ESV)

God’s judgment will ultimately come upon all who reject His Will. The price for such rejection will be His rejection of them. Do we possess a sufficient APPRECIATION for the knowledge of God that we will continue accepting it?

May we continue to exhibit an APPRECIATION for the message of wisdom from God. Even today in the twenty-first century, His Way is still right. Let us continue to yield our listening ears to His Will.

Have a great day EARNESTLY SEEKING THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD!
Carl

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He's Listening!

There was a five-year-old girl who had a habit of making very long, drawn-out prayers at bedtime. Her mother, considering her prayers to be a nightly stall tactic, tried to shorten them by saying “Amen” during a slight pause. However, the little girl continued on. At another pause the mother once again said “Amen.” This time the little girl immediately said, “Dear God, don’t pay any attention to Mommy. She doesn’t know when I’m done.”

Jesus taught against the idea that we are heard for our many words. (Matthew 6:7) He then gave a brief model for prayer. (Matthew 6:9-13) However, is it really a matter of whether our prayers be long or short? We have examples of Jesus Himself praying short (i.e. Matthew 11:25-26; Matthew
26:39,42,44) and long (i.e. Luke 6:12; John 17) prayers. He also prayed the same thing more than once. (Matthew 26:44) On that occasion Jesus was not offering vain repetition or empty phrases of which He taught against, but rather it was prayer marked by the intensity of the situation. The words of prayer are to possess substance and have a proper heart behind them. Then does that mean WE ARE DONE?

Paul encouraged the spirit of prayer in these words:
“PRAY WITHOUT CEASING” (1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV)

In the Greek there are only two words in this verse: “unceasingly pray” and “pray” is in the imperative. We are to do it and do so UNCEASINGLY. This would seem to indicate we are NEVER DONE with prayer. It is not that we walk around with our eyes closed, head bowed, and hands folded all the time. That would make driving and walking perilous as well as limit the works of our hands. Rather, UNCEASINGLY is the spirit of a proper prayer life. It is an attitude for living. It is a constant awareness of life being lived in the presence of God and a consciousness of the need for His constant guidance and support. It is the recognition that His line is always open for our communication with Him wherever we are twenty-four/seven.

Like the little girl mentioned above, others may not know when we are done. They may also be unaware when we have begun. But God is always attentive. (1 Peter 3:12) May we be strengthened by His abiding presence as we live our lives in the spirit of UNCEASING prayer.

Have a great day IN CONTINUAL COMMUNION WITH GOD!
Carl

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Because This is Not It!

If this life were all there were to our existence, we would most likely live much differently than perhaps we do now. We would still probably treat those around us kindly; especially those who were kind to us, as such is still the way of the world. (Matthew 5:46-47) However, if there were nothing to follow the end of this life we would very likely tend to be a bit more self-centered and seek to find the most pleasure out of life we could. But we do know that this life is not it! There is more to come!

While making his defense before Governor Felix at Caesarea, Paul pointed to the basis and motivation for the CONDUCT of his life.
“(14) But this I confess to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, (15) HAVING A HOPE IN GOD, which these men themselves accept, that THERE WILL BE A RESURRECTION OF BOTH THE JUST AND THE UNJUST. (16) SO I ALWAYS TAKE PAINS TO HAVE A CLEAR CONSCIENCE TOWARD BOTH GOD AND MAN.” (Acts 24:14-16 ESV)

The Greek translated “take pains” (ESV), “strive” (NIV), or “I exercise”
(KJV) is “asko”, from “askeo”, a word which “signifies to form by art, to adorn, to work up raw material with skill; hence, in general, to take pains, endeavour, exercise by training or discipline, with a view to a conscience void of offence.” [from Vine’s Expository Dictionary of N.T. Words]

There was a beauty that adorned the life of Paul as he diligently sought to fulfill the Will of God. His life became a wonderful masterpiece in God’s hands. And Paul had a resolve for maintaining the life He had been called by Christ to live. The fact that life here and now was not all there was to Paul’s existence appears to have powerfully motivated him in all he did. The reality of a resurrection at the end of this life, encouraged Paul with a great hope, but also struck him with a sense of diligence in living with a CLEAR CONSCIENCE before both God and man. As we look at his life it is easy to see that he would not be swayed from this resolve.

Life here and now is not it! We may believe that intellectually, but do we always strive to live in accordance with the reality? May the reality of our resurrection instill within us a hope sufficient to cause us to press on, like Paul (i.e. Acts 20:24; 21:13-14), regardless of what we might face. In Christ we have a sure hope! But let the truth of a coming resurrection also keep us aware of how we are to always CONDUCT our lives now.

Have a great day LIVING CLEARLY CONSCIOUS OF THINGS TO COME!
Carl

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Fixed Price!

If you drive you may be concerned with the continuing rising cost of gas. We are seeing higher prices per gallon than we ever have. News in our area has also been reporting the rising of milk prices along with other milk products. The COSTS of various things seem to always be going up. Is there anything that is maintaining a consistency of COST?

Someone has said, “The price of sin is everlasting damnation, but that’s one price that never goes up.” [source: calendar quote]

The Scriptures are full of examples of those who were struck down by God because of their sin. God has always viewed departure from His Will as a serious thing. And eternal separation -- everlasting damnation -- remains the ultimate COST for living unrepentant lives. It is a COST that remains constant because no higher COST could be fixed. God, however, has provided the means by which we can be spared that fixed price.

Paul warned, but also encouraged…
“FOR THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH, BUT THE FREE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD.” (Romans 6:23 ESV)

The COST OF SIN is a high price to pay. The price for our redemption was a high price paid by our Lord. (1 Peter 1:19) We can pay for our sins, but we cannot buy our salvation. That price could only be paid by Christ alone on our behalf. However, to continue in sin means that no sacrifice for sin is left, but only the fearful expectation of God’s judgment. (Hebrews
10:26-27)

High prices generally cause us to shop wisely for the best deals. May we remain faithful to Christ in whom we have the greatest deal God could ever offer -- the eternal salvation of our soul.

Have a great day LIVING APPRECIATIVELY OF THE PRICE CHRIST PAID!
Carl

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Part of His Plan!

Honor should be given to whom honor is due. (Romans 13:7) Today has been set aside as “Mother’s Day” -- a day to think about MOTHERS and to honor them in ways that should also be done on other days of the year. Mother’s Day was first observe in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1907 and became a national holiday in 1908. However, there is evidence of such a focus centuries before in Ancient Greece, as well as in England in the 1600’s. Still, we should note above all that womanhood and MOTHERHOOD were originally God’s idea. It was God Who created woman as the “suitable” or “fit” helper of man. (Genesis 2:18-24) And though some in our society wish to change things, God’s design alone provides the suitable fit. God created woman to be the means by which future generations would come into existence. (Genesis 1:27-28)

One of my favorite poems regarding MOTHERS is…

“The bravest battle that ever was fought,
Shall I tell you where or when?
On the maps of the world you will find it not;
It was fought by the mothers of men.”
[author unknown]

In the praising of the “virtuous woman” in Proverbs note the following two verses.
“(10) An excellent wife who can find? SHE IS FAR MORE PRECIOUS THAN JEWELS. … (18) HER CHILDREN RISE UP AND CALL HER BLESSED; HER HUSBAND ALSO, AND HE PRAISES HER.” (Proverbs 31:10 & 28 ESV)

God had a plan in creating woman. She has a God-glorifying role to fulfill. She has a function of inestimable value in the home, the church, and society. She has a place only she can fill. And it is that which is in accordance with God’s design that brings stability to home and society at large.

Those of you who are MOTHERS, recognize the glorious position God has given you in life. Live honorably in accordance with it. Those who are married to MOTHERS, don’t take all the things they do for granted, rather support and encourage them so that their labors do not become too burdensome. Treat them in honorable and God glorifying ways. (Ephesians
5:25-30) Those who have MOTHERS, honor and love them, letting them know how much they are appreciated, not just today, but every day. MOTHERS are still God’s idea.

Have a great day HONORING GOD’S DESIGN!
Carl

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Hand/Eye Coordination!

How is your hand/eye coordination? What is the connection between your VISION and the ACTIONS of your hands? What happens when your hands are involved in something, but you turn your eyes away from what you are doing? It is important to keep a proper connection between what we ENVISION and what we are DOING.

The statement has been made, “Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare.” (Japanese Proverb)

This world is full of DREAMERS. However, there are also many who too hastily launch into ACTION, only to find themselves in the midst of a mess or perhaps even an actual scary situation. But what good are plans in the MIND without ACTION?

Solomon stated…
“DESIRE WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE IS NOT GOOD, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way.” (Proverbs 19:2 ESV)

As we DREAM, let us do so with the bigness of our God in mind. But as we DREAM, let us be willing to let God use us in His work. May we have eager hands, focused eyes, and a heart devoted to the things of God that our life ACTION will be wholly coordinated with His desires and the opportunities to serve those around us.

Have a great day HOLY COORDINATED!
Carl

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Days of our Lives!

As we consider the days of our lives, they are varied with regard to occurrences and expectations. There are activities and events we look forward to as well as things of the past on which we love to reflect.
Yesterday was a day I looked forward to because it was “Grandparents Day” at the school where our grand-twins, Andrew and Eric, attend. What made it most special for me was that they were excited about me sharing the day with them. I hope they remember the day as I will.

I recognize “The Days Of Our Lives” is the title of a soap opera that has been on for years and it is true some people’s lives may be exactly that -- a soap opera. But how do we focus on the relationship between the days of our lives? There are three categories our days may be placed in:
YESTERDAY, TODAY, and TOMORROW. How we live life focused on each of these groupings is important.

The statement has been made: “Yesterday is history; tomorrow is a mystery; focus on the here and now because it is the present that you control.” [author unknown]

Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is not yet within our grasp or control.
Certainly things done TODAY will impact our tomorrows, but tomorrow’s actualities are not fully known to us. Though known to God, to us the things of tomorrow are a mystery. Sometimes we become a bit anxious regarding what is not under our control. However, a greater mistake we may make is to plan as if everything is!

James exhorted…
“(13) Come now, you who say, ‘TODAY OR TOMORROW WE WILL go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’ --
(14) yet YOU DO NOT KNOW WHAT TOMORROW WILL BRING. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” (James
4:13-14 ESV)

The sin is not in laying out a plan, but in doing so as if it all were a sure thing. It is always a grave mistake when we leave God out of the picture as we make our plans. TODAY is the day God has given and we should thank Him for it as we use it to His glory. We must plan realizing that not only do we not know what tomorrow might bring, but that God might choose to not bring tomorrow about at all. The future is in His hands to either give or withhold. How we live TODAY and the manner in which decisions are made should be done with that in mind.

James went on to point out the focus we ought to have.
“(15) Instead you ought to say, ‘IF THE LORD WILLS, WE WILL LIVE AND DO THIS OR THAT.’” (James 4:15 ESV)

“IF THE LORD WILLS!” Those aren’t magic words to simply associate with our life. They are not merely the label to stick on our plans as if to validate them. They are to be words of honest acknowledgment of God’s Sovereignty, trusting faith in His providence, and willing submission to the wisdom of His Will. May that be our focus for living TODAY!

Have a great day LIVING TODAY TRUSTING GOD!
Carl

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A Revealing Life!

What does our life say to those around us? What do others come to KNOW because of the way we live? Or more importantly, WHO can they come to KNOW by our conduct?

Someone has well said, “Live in such a way that those who know you, but don’t know God, will come to know God because they know you.” [source unknown]

Israel was exhorted again and again to live in a way that the nations around them would KNOW that there was a God in Israel. Unfortunately that was often not the case. What is the case in the territory of our own life?

Peter exhorted…
“KEEP YOUR CONDUCT AMONG THE GENTILES HONORABLE, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS AND GLORIFY GOD on the day of visitation.” (1 Peter 2:12 ESV)

The manner of our words and actions ought to ultimately point attention toward God and our Lord, Jesus Christ. As followers of Christ, He is to be seen in our life. And unless we set self and our own desires aside, He will not be seen.

May those around us come to KNOW that God is Sovereign in our life and that the wisdom of our life is His. In this way they may come to KNOW HIM who holds even their eternity in His hands.

Have a great day LIVING THAT GOD BE KNOWN!
Carl

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God's Blessings!

The statement has been made, “Ask God’s blessings on your work, but don’t ask Him to do it for you.” [source: calendar quote]

Our God has a great desire to bless our lives. He has blessings in mind for us now and for the future. And we should desire His blessings to be upon the WORK of our hands. However, we are to be mindful of the personal responsibility we are not to shirk.

Solomon exhorted…
“COMMIT YOUR WORK TO THE LORD, and your plans will be established.”
(Proverbs 16:3 ESV)

Solomon did not say, “Give your work to the Lord.” OUR WORKS are to be committed to God for the furthering of His Will to His glory and praise.
Humble servants of God, WORKING to fulfill His Will on earth, are the ones who find blessings in the WORK.

James encouraged his readers…
“But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but A DOER WHO ACTS, HE WILL BE BLESSED IN HIS DOING.” (James 1:25 ESV)

Our reading of God’s Word is to prompt active service on our part. We are to actively live out the principles of God’s Word and fulfill the purposes He has given to us as His servants. We must always bear in mind the doing of OUR PART (Ephesians 4:16) in the Body of Christ, as we carry out the WORK God has given us to do.

Have a great day INVOLVED IN GOD BLESSED LABORS!
Carl

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Persistence Pays Off!

There are many things which have been started but never completed. Sometimes this has occurred due to lack of funds. Other times works are abandoned simply because it was decided they were too tough or taking too long. Those things which have a WORTHWHILE END require persistence to bring them to fruition. Jesus told the parable of a widow who persisted in her request and it was her persistence which paid off. (Luke 18:1-5) The point Jesus was stressing was to continue to pray and not give up.

There is no question that life is sometimes tough. There are times when we may have to push ourselves to keep going. It can be far too easy to give up and quit. Persistent patience is often needed. Someone has said, “Remember when you see a man at the top of a mountain, he didn’t fall there.” [author unknown] God has provided something WORTH pressing on toward. We need to keep climbing as we hold the goal in view.

Paul exhorted…
“to those who BY PATIENCE IN WELL-DOING seek for glory and honor and immortality, HE WILL GIVE ETERNAL LIFE;” (Romans 2:7 ESV)

We need to persist in doing what is good and right. Such is worthwhile because it pleases God and holds glorious promise for the FUTURE.

Have a great day CONTINUING THE CLIMB TOWARD GOD!
Carl

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Unearthed!

When it comes to unearthing precious metals, man has been very industrious. He has put forth great effort, expended much energy, and drawn up plans to utilize various processes. Job even mentioned several of these processes such as mining, refining, smelting, going deep below the earth, overturning mountains, cutting channels in the rocks, and damming streams (Job 28:1-11); all in an effort to uncover earth’s treasures. But has as much effort gone into unearthing the treasures of WISDOM and UNDERSTANDING?

Job asked and declared…
“(12) But WHERE SHALL WISDOM BE FOUND? And WHERE IS THE PLACE OF UNDERSTANDING? (13) MAN DOES NOT KNOW ITS WORTH, and it is not found in the land of the living.” (Job 28:12-13)

Job went on to point out that WISDOM is not found in the depth of the sea, nor can it be bought for gold or silver. Neither gold, onyx, sapphire, jewels of fine gold, coral, crystal, pearls, topaz, nor even pure gold can compare or be enough to purchase WISDOM. (Job 28:14-19) This was the statement of a man who had been in possession of great riches. It appears Job understood the truth that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (Luke 12:15 ESV)

Many search the world for WISDOM. They are like those who are eager to talk about the newest ideas of the day. (note Acts 17:21) And yet they still do not UNDERSTAND as they should. WISDOM cannot be unearthed because it is UNEARTHLY! It is a WISDOM from above. Any of the WISDOM and UNDERSTANDING this physical creation may reveal is not understood until the God behind it is acknowledged. It is God who must be looked to because He is the One Who “understands the way to it and he knows its place.” (Job 28:23 ESV)

Note Job’s declaration from his God.
“And he said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, THAT IS WISDOM, and to turn away from evil IS UNDERSTANDING.’” (Job 28:28)

Do we fear God? Is He being given the esteem He deserves from us? If so, we have begun the search for WISDOM in the right place. And as we continue to seek His Way and Will -- turning from the evil of this world -- our proper UNDERSTANDING will be revealed.

Have a great day ENRICHED BY THE WISDOM FROM ABOVE!
Carl

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Keeping Afloat!

Someone has said, “We didn’t all come over on the same ship, but we’re all in the same boat.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

Paul stated…
“for ALL HAVE SINNED AND FALL SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD,” (Romans 3:23 ESV)

When it came to finding ourselves facing the dilemma of sin, we may not have all taken the same route or come by the same means. However, we ultimately found ourselves in the SAME BOAT with the same need for a means of salvation. Fortunately, God has provided the one means necessary and adequate for deliverance from that condition.

Paul went on to state…
“and ARE JUSTIFIED BY HIS GRACE as a gift, THROUGH THE REDEMPTION THAT IS IN CHRIST JESUS,” (Romans 3:24 ESV)

Jesus did not take part in sin, but He did take on the flesh (Romans 8:3), and perhaps in that sense we can say He got into the boat with us. It was in the flesh that Jesus revealed how we can live (even in a sinful
world) to please God and that He fulfilled the righteous requirement of the law for those who would walk, not after the flesh, but in accordance with the Spirit. (Romans 8:4)

Sin presents various challenges to life. It seeks to take over and sink us. But like the disciples when on the sea in the storm (Matthew 8:23-27), having Jesus ON BOARD in our life is the means of keeping from being sunk by sin.

There may be many roads to sin, but there is only one way to the Father (John 14:6) and that is through Jesus Christ. May we continue in Him that our life may remain afloat, moving onward and upward toward our heavenly destination.

Have a great day LIVING WITH JESUS AT THE HELM!
Carl

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Closing In!

As I have been taking my walks the last couple weeks, I have been keeping a watch for the tent caterpillars beginning to eat the leaves and build their cocoons in the trees. I have been diligently KEEPING WATCH to see how close they are getting to our neighborhood as they seem to be gradually closing in. Now it is becoming a DAILY WATCH for signs of them in our own yard. So far it has only been one small branch of a lilac tree which I immediately took care of. If I don’t keep a CLOSE WATCH I know that all our trees could be infested before we know it.

Living in the world we need to keep a CLOSE WATCH as ungodliness seems to close in closer and closer around us. If we are not watchful, worldly ideas can slip in and begin to influence in subtle ways. We can gradually become desensitized to things which are out of place in our Christian walk.
Therefore we must be diligent in keeping a CLOSE WATCH that we do not become infested with anything that may begin to strip away at godly character and faithfulness to God’s Will. As soon as we see signs of such we need to take quick action to eliminate (do some pruning) whatever may eat away at the life God desires us to live.

Paul exhorted Timothy to…
“KEEP A CLOSE WATCH ON YOURSELF AND ON THE TEACHING. Persist in this, for by so doing you will SAVE BOTH YOURSELF AND YOUR HEARERS.” (1 Timothy 4:16 ESV)

May we seek God’s help to keep us resistant to the infestation of worldliness. Let us diligently keep a CLOSE WATCH for our own sake, as well as the sake of those we are trying to draw to Christ.

Have a great day ON GUARD FOR GOD’S GLORY!
Carl

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