Love Of Our Life!

Our first love -- our “number one squeeze” or “love of our life” as the world puts it -- what or who is it? For some it is a hobby, an occupation, a possession, self, a boyfriend or girlfriend, or someone else. We have been given the capacity to love lots of things and lots of individuals without diminishing the love we have to spread around. However, toward what (or
whom) our love is foremost directed is important to consider.

Jesus stated…
“Whoever loves father or mother MORE THAN ME is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter MORE THAN ME is not worthy of me.” (Matthew 10:37 ESV)

Now, Jesus did not say, “don‘t love these”! The New Testament is very clear regarding the proper approach to family relationships and even the view toward enemies. (note Ephesians 6:1-4 and Matthew 5:44) With relationships come responsibilities that are not to be ignored. (note 1 Timothy 5:8) It is just that Jesus is to have the first focus of our love. The Greek in this passage implies that no one is to be loved “over” or “above” Jesus. His claim to our affection is to be above all else. And as we properly love Him and His Will, a proper love will be directed in the other areas of our life as well.

Remember, Jesus set nothing else above our salvation. We are certainly not WORTHY of such a provision. However, Jesus stated we become WORTHY of Him when we truly love Him above all else. We have therefore been called to maintain a proper perspective with regard to the recipients of our love. May we continue to walk WORTHY of the calling we have received. (Ephesians 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:12) as Jesus retains the first focus of the love of our life. It is in Him that truest life for both now and eternity is found.

Have a great day LEARNING TO LOVE THE LORD MORE!
Carl

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Don't Panic!

I was talking with our community chaplain coordinator this past week regarding the need for the cell phone (provided to us for when we each have our week of on call duty) to be set up to reveal what number a call came from in case we happened to miss a call. We used to have a pager, but after having problems with not all the digits coming through we were provided the cell phone. The chaplain coordinator said he would address the issue and also said that there was a willingness to provide another pager as well. I responded that since I already had my own cell phone and a pager and then carry the chaplain phone as well when I am on call, to add another pager I might need a utility belt. This would be particularly true since when I am on call I generally also carry a portable scanner to provide me with a heads up for anything I might be dispatched to as I listen to the police and medic communications with our local 911 dispatch center.

OH HOW CONNECTED many of us have become. It is amazing to think of the great strides in technology for improving methods of communication and the transfer of information. We have moved from the weeks and months it took for letters to be delivered by foot, horseback or stagecoach to daily mail delivery, airmail, and overnight express. Electronic communication has gone from the use of telegraph to telephone, radio, computer, cell phone, and satellite technology. We are also able to watch events from around the world right as they are happening while we sit in front of the television in our own home.

Having gone from communication taking months to now having instant messaging available, whenever there is a glitch in the system or the system is completely down for a few minutes, people panic. If we try to shop in a grocery store or department store and their system goes down its almost as if life comes to a grinding halt because the price scanners won’t work and computerized cash registers won’t operate.

I know how quickly I get frustrated when the internet service in our area is down for a few minutes and my messaging is disrupted. Nevertheless, the thing I am very thankful for is that GOD’S SYSTEM NEVER GOES DOWN!

Paul exhorted…
“(6) DO NOT BE ANXIOUS ABOUT ANYTHING, but IN EVERYTHING BY PRAYER and SUPPLICATION with THANKSGIVING LET YOUR REQUESTS BE MADE KNOWN TO GOD.
(7) And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)

Don’t panic! GOD’S LINE IS ALWAYS OPEN! And as we pray we should be AT PEACE knowing that God is always mindful of what is going on in our life and He hears our requests. Do we find peace in being CONNECTED TO GOD? We don’t have to worry about down time. There will be no glitches to require us to “reboot” our system. Nor do we have to worry about any of those annoying “pop up” ads. Neither is there any worry regarding peak or non-peak calling hours. From anywhere and at any time we can talk to the One Whose ear is always within range. (note Isaiah 59:1) May we truly experience the peace of God that will guard our hearts and our minds.

Have a great day ENJOYING CONTINUAL COMMUNICATION WITH GOD!
Carl

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A Tended Life!

Gardens can be very interesting places. They are environments where much variety can be seen. However, all that variety is not necessarily good. One very important fact about gardens is that something will grow there whether CULTIVATED or not. Without any effort at all, weeds of many varieties can grow strong and tall. And for that I guess we can thank Adam and Eve. (Genesis 3:17-18)

The Hebrew writer noted…
“(7) For land that has drunk the rain that often falls on it, and produces A CROP USEFUL TO THOSE FOR WHOSE SAKE IT IS CULTIVATED, receives a blessing from God. (8) BUT IF IT BEARS THORNS AND THISTLES, it is worthless and near to being cursed, and its end is to be burned.” (Hebrews 6:7-8 ESV)

Did you note how verse seven implied the activity of the farmer by referring to land that was CULTIVATED while verse eight did not? The same blessing of God’s rains being drunk in by the ground helps the CULTIVATED land to produce something beneficial to the one who tends it while the land left to itself drinks in the rains only to produce “thorns and thistles”.

This same thing is true regarding our lives. The Hebrew writer had been stressing the need for growth, with a warning regarding those who had accepted the truth only to fall away. The important thing to recognize is even when no effort is put forth there is still something which will begin to take root and grow in our life. When a life, just like a garden, is left alone to allow whatever seeds might blow into it, there is no telling what variety of ideas may begin to take root and grow.

We dare not chance just letting life happen. God has a plan and we need for that plan to be worked out in our life so that good beneficial fruit will be produced. May we be sure the “garden of our life” is well tended so that it will produce the fruit of repentance (Matt 3:8) and righteousness (Philippians 1:11; Hebrews 12:11). Let us grow as God intended.

Have a great day BEING A GARDEN OF GOD!
Carl

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Reason and Hope!

I came across a statement several weeks ago which I had to set aside and give some more thought to. As I was doing some other studying this morning it came to mind again and I think it is worth considering. Here it is: “An atheist has a reason but no hope for his reason. A hypocrite has a hope but no reason for his hope. A Christian has a reason for his hope and a hope for his reason.” [source: “Sentence Sermons”]

If you are like me, you might have to read that statement over several times for it to sink in. Those who refuse to believe in God and His standard for life do a lot of reasoning, but for them there is no hope beyond the things of this realm. Since they do not believe in God there is no eternity to believe in either. The hypocrite believes in the hope God offers, but in refusing to wholeheartedly turn their allegiance to His Will they may never realize that hope. To attempt to live with one foot in the kingdom and one in the world is a hopeless endeavor. There is no compatibility. (i.e. 2 Corinthians 6:14-15) However, to be a true Christian we can find REASON FOR OUR HOPE and HOPE FOR OUR REASON!

Peter exhorted…
“but IN YOUR HEARTS REGARD CHRIST THE LORD AS HOLY, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a REASON FOR THE HOPE that is in you;” (1 Peter 3:15)

The American Standard Version reads: “sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord”. For us as Christians there is both an element of conviction and encouragement in Peter’s statement. We must be sincere with regard to our submission to God. We should also be encouraged in knowing it is in our relationship to God through the Son that we have a steadfast assurance of HOPE. Christ must be set apart as Lord. Nothing else and no one else is to have that place. He is to be continually viewed above all else as the Lord of our life. It cannot be any other way. We must be convicted by this truth. Then we can rejoice in the REASON FOR THE HOPE we have regardless of what may be going on around us.

Unlike the atheist, we have HOPE FOR OUR REASON because we have accepted the purposes of God for our life, recognizing His wisdom above all else. Yes, our walk with God and our hope for the future requires some faith, but I don’t believe it demands quite as much faith as needed to accept some of the theories embraced by unbelievers.

Also, unlike the hypocrite, we have REASON FOR OUR HOPE because we have accepted the truth that Jesus is THE Way, Truth, and Life; the only Access to the Father. (John 14:6) We therefore recognize the need to die to self (and to sin and the world) that we can live completely for Him.

Because of Christ, may we (like Paul) be able to trustfully declare…
“(8) We are afflicted in every way, BUT NOT CRUSHED; perplexed, BUT NOT DRIVEN TO DESPAIR; (9) persecuted, BUT NOT FORSAKEN; struck down, BUT NOT DESTROYED; (10) always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that THE LIFE OF JESUS MAY ALSO BE MANIFESTED IN OUR BODIES.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10 ESV)

Truly living under the Lordship of Christ will provide a HOPE that will not disappoint us. (Romans 5:5) May Christ be maintained as our REASON for living while we press on sustained by the HOPE in Him for the eternity to come.

Have a great day RECOGNIZING EVERY REASON FOR HOPE IN CHRIST!
Carl

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Ancestry!

Family history can be very interesting. Some people spend lots of money to have their ancestry researched. Then there are others who put forth great effort to cover it up. Nevertheless, whatever the ancestry has been -- good or bad -- it is what it is. The real issue is what is our own focus for life?

Someone has said, “The kind of ancestors we have had is not as important as the kind of descendants our ancestors have.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

Consider Hezekiah, the thirteenth king of the kingdom of Judah. He was one of the best kings the southern kingdom had. However, he descended from Ahaz who was a wicked king (2 Kings 16:2-4) and was the father of Manasseh who was one of the worst kings (2 Kings 21:1-9). Following this ancestry through two more generations we find that Manasseh’s son Amon was also one of the worst kings, but Amon’s son Josiah was another one of the best. We therefore see good following bad and bad following good.

Our heritage may explain some things about us, but it does not necessarily define who we are. We have no control over the choices our ancestors made whether they were good or bad. However, we do make the choices regarding our own life. DESCENDANCY can end up either being a descending or an ascending line as far as the character of the life is concerned.

To some who placed great stock in their ancestry, Jesus pointed to the lack of a righteous link.
“(39) They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “IF YOU WERE ABRAHAM’S CHILDREN, YOU WOULD BE DOING WHAT ABRAHAM DID, (40) but now you seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. THIS IS NOT WHAT ABRAHAM DID.” (John 8:39-40 ESV)

These were not good DESCENDANTS. Rather than ascending to the level of character possessed by Abraham, they had descended to the depths of the essence of the devil. (John 8:44)

As Christians, having been baptized into Christ, we have become “Abraham ’s offspring” and heirs of the promise made to him. (Galatians 3:26-29) Wow! A DESCENDANT of Abraham! What a heritage with which to be associated! The real issue, however, is to consider what kind of DESCENDANTS of Abraham are we? Are we living with like faith? Is our life characterized by the obedience of Abraham? Are we willing to follow God wherever He leads as Abraham did?

May the characteristics of Abraham that were pleasing to God be evident in us as we go about our own daily lives. By also being people of faith we will be “blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.” (Galatians 3:9)

Have a great day LIVING LIFE AS AN ASCENDING DESCENDANT!
Carl

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The Thing To Acknowledge!

Sometimes people observing our life compliment us for the abilities or talents we might possess that can bring benefit to others. And though we don ’t want to boast about ourselves, hearing it from an unbiased observer we may feel it must be true -- we do have a lot to offer. If we hear such praise enough it may even begin to prompt a little boasting within ourselves, “Yes, that’s me. I am quite talented. Having a lot to offer, God must be pretty fortunate to have me as one of His servants.” It is encouraging to know our life has significance. We all ought to realize this and be willing to offer our abilities for the benefit of those around us. However, the danger we must guard against is focusing so much on ourselves that we forget the God who has blessed us for His purposes! When God is left out of the picture we can easily begin to use what we possess for what we think is best, rather than what we should UNDERSTAND AND KNOW associated with Him!

God, speaking through His prophet Jeremiah, stated…
“(23) Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, (24) but LET HIM WHO BOASTS BOAST IN THIS, THAT HE UNDERSTANDS AND KNOWS ME, THAT I AM THE LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 ESV)

There was acknowledgment here of the wisdom of the wise. That is very desirable. There was recognition of the strength of the mighty. That is very beneficial. There was also acknowledgment of the wealth of the rich man. That opens the door for much good to be done. To acknowledge what we have to offer in service to others and to benefit even our own lives is good. Such awareness helps us recognize our life truly has value. However, it is when have come to UNDERSTAND AND KNOW GOD -- being aware of His Will and His Desires -- that whatever abilities and possessions we have will be brought into their greatest usefulness for the benefit of others and to His glory and praise.

Since grade school I have had the desire to write. I began by making up short stories and then some poetry and songs. As I grew older the desire continued to grow, though the idea of becoming a preacher of the Gospel was never even a hint of a thought until my first year in college. After having developed sermon outlines for several years I considered the idea of someday publishing them to help others as I had received help from other’s outlines when I first began preaching. And though I have still not formally published any outlines I have been encouraged to find some of them have been used by others. Now I find myself not only preparing sermons and regular Bible studies for the congregation here in Port Townsend, but realizing my dream of writing on a daily basis for what has become known as “teEn-MAIL”, with a readership that continues to grow. I appreciate the many encouraging words I have received. But the reality is the only way this phase of my ministry has been able to continue is for God to bring the focuses. Without spending daily time in His Word and without His help the “well” would have run dry long ago. Now in its seventh year (to my amazement), these focuses will only continue to go out as long as it is left in the hands of God. May He be praised!

It doesn’t matter how young or old you might be, you have something to offer in service to others and to the glory of God. Such a realization should boost your esteem. You are a significant being. God created you to be such. If you struggle with knowing what your abilities or gifts might be, ask others what they see in your life. Then, as you come to UNDERSTAND AND KNOW GOD and His Will more and more, you will find the greatest usefulness for those blessings from God. To acknowledge your own giftedness is a good thing as long as it is kept in proper perspective with an abiding focus on God. You need to see your talents and allow them to be used in accordance with the purposes for which God has given them.

Whether it be wisdom, might, wealth, or whatever else with which we have been blessed, may it not be merely used for ourselves, but for God. Keeping God and His Will in the picture will help us keep our gifts in proper perspective and steer us toward our greatest usefulness to His glory and praise.

Have a great day LIVING IN THE SIGNIFICANCE GOD PROVIDES!
Carl

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"Are We There Yet?"

“Are we there yet?” is the periodic cry of children in the midst of being tired of having to sit still in the car for so long and excitedly anticipating the destination toward which was being traveled. Traveling can seem to take a long time, especially for young children. I can remember trips I thought took an unbearably long time that seem like nothing today. Sometimes the challenge to parents (in order to keep their patience from being tested to the limit) is to help their children focus on things which can help the time pass better.

In Hebrews we find a reference to Abraham who headed out on a journey at the command of God. He obediently began the journey toward the land to be given as an inheritance, not knowing where he was going or what might be experienced along the way. (Hebrews 11:8) It was truly a journey of faith. However, even as he lived in that land he did so as though it was still a “foreign land”, building no permanent dwelling, but instead living in tents. (Hebrews 11:9) Isaac and Jacob also lived in this manner as they looked forward to a city “whose designer and builder is God.” (Hebrews 11:10) Abraham and Sarah looked ahead in faith toward descendants which could not be counted (Hebrews 11:11-12), while journeying through each day of their lives with a DISTANT HOME in view.

The Hebrew writer went on to point out…
“(13) These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that THEY WERE STRANGERS AND EXILES ON THE EARTH. (14) For PEOPLE WHO SPEAK THUS MAKE IT CLEAR that THEY ARE SEEKING A HOMELAND. (15) If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. (16) But as it is, they DESIRE A BETTER COUNTRY, that is, A HEAVENLY ONE. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for HE HAS PREPARED FOR THEM A CITY.” (Hebrews 11:13-16
ESV)

How do we speak? Do we speak and live as those who are stilling “SEEKING A HOMELAND”? Are we holding the same perspective for life that these had? Or do we find ourselves feeling very much at home now? We need to acknowledge we are still on a journey as we continue LOOKING TOWARD the HOME “whose designer and builder is God”? There are things to be focused on as we continue on the journey, but we need to keep in mind that we are NOT HOME YET. As much as we might enjoy many aspects of this life we must be careful we don’t make ourselves so much at home here that we lose our desire for that better heavenly country God has prepared for us.

Someday we will leave this “tent” behind and enter into an eternal dwelling provided by God. (2 Corinthians 5:1-5) May we keep pressing on. The journey will be worth enduring regardless of how long it might be.

Have a great day REMEMBERING THERE IS A HEAVELY DWELLING!
Carl

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Revealed!

Some things we are able to see clearly while others are more difficult to discern. Even God has chosen to reveal some things while keeping others as His own secret things. (note Deuteronomy 29:29) And we could go crazy trying to search out some things which may never be understood, at least in this realm. Where our focus really needs to rest is on what has been revealed because God has revealed it for A PURPOSE.

As Jesus prepared to send out the disciples (on what we have come to know as the “limited commission”) He had forewarned that not all would receive them or accept their teaching. (Matthew 10:14) The Lord had also warned them regarding persecution they would face (Matthew 10:16-23) while encouraging them that salvation came to those who would endure to the end. (Matthew 10:22) Jesus had also revealed that the way He was treated, they would also be treated. (Matthew 10:24-25) However, what others in this world might do was not to be feared since they were limited. (Matthew 10:28a) The most important thing to bear in mind was the relationship to God Who had power over the destiny of the soul. (Matthew 10:28b)

In the midst of revealing all these things, Jesus exhorted…
“(26) So have no fear of them, for nothing is COVERED that will not be REVEALED, or HIDDEN that will not be KNOWN. (27) What I TELL YOU IN THE DARK, SAY IN THE LIGHT, and WHAT YOU HEAR WHISPERED, PROCLAIM ON THE HOUSETOPS.” (Matthew 10:26-27 ESV)

THE CONCEALED WILL BE REVEALED! We may not see it clearly yet, but the time will come. The hidden motives, the false accusations, the varied agendas of false teachers; all that would ultimately be revealed by God. The masks of these would eventually come off as there is a day coming when the secrets of men’s hearts will be revealed. (1 Corinthians 4:5) We may not see such things clearly now, but the time will come. This being the case, what ought our effort and focus be for now?

The REVEALED IS TO BE SQUEALED! What we have learned privately from the Scriptures is to be PROCLAIMED PUBLICLY. Whether it be from our private personal study or within the safe walls of our congregations, both our actions and our words are to PROCLAIM the truth we have come to know.

There is nothing we can do about that which is concealed beyond our vision. God, in His time, will take care of that. However, we are without excuse for not PROCLAIMING what God has revealed to us. It has not been revealed merely to encourage us, though it should. It was not passed on to us only to make us good, though we do receive that benefit. The Gospel of Jesus has not just been revealed to us for our own salvation, though we should praise God it has had that impact. What has been revealed is to be SHARED that others may receive the eternal blessing only God’s Word can provide. May we PROCLAIM the truth on the rooftop, in the living room, out in the yard, and into our community, etc.; wherever we meet others as we go through life.

Have a great day REJOICING TO REVEAL WHAT GOD HAS MADE KNOWN!
Carl

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Maintaining the Focus! (5 of 5)

Keeping on task. That is important in just about every facet of our lives. The good soldier who maintains a proper focus receives the reward of the commanding officer’s approval. The athlete who keeps his focus receives the victor’s crown. The third illustration Paul used in his letter to Timothy also has its reward.

Paul wrote…
“It is the HARD-WORKING FARMER who ought to have the first SHARE OF THE CROPS.” (2 Timothy 2:6 ESV)

The emphasis here is on “hard-working” as opposed to a farmer who might not put forth much effort, perhaps even being lazy. He cannot wait for a convenient time. When it is the time for planting, the planting must be done. And the same is true with regard to the time of HARVEST. The work is not always easy, but there is joy and satisfaction found in being able to SHARE IN THE HARVEST. That’s what makes it all worth the effort of rising early and even working through the heat of the day.

This same perspective needs to be associated with our Christian walk. It takes effort. Now is not the time to rest; that will come later. (Hebrews 4:8-11) The going is not always easy. Cultivating spiritual qualities in our life must continue to take place. There is the necessity for some periodic weeding out of those things which would otherwise choke out the good planted in us. (note Matthew 13:22) And we must be alert, watching for any infestation of “pests” that might try to eat at and destroy the fruitfulness of our life.

We also need to be mindful of sowing the seed of the Word of God as we go through life. As we do share the Word with the hope of reaping a harvest among our friends and others, like the farmer there is the need for patience. (James 5:7) We will find some to be slow to accept. It is important in such situations to continue modeling the right things. Those we are around most will be quick to note any inconsistencies between what we say and do; to note any hypocrisy and call it such. As we talk the talk we must be mindful of walking the walk. That consistency will be powerful testimony that our Christianity is genuine and the wisdom of God is truly practical for daily living.

In season and out of season (2 Timothy 4:2) we must keep ourselves prepared, focusing on the work God has called us to be a part of. The fruit from service to the glory of God is sweet. May we be diligent regarding our role that we can each enjoy the privilege of SHARING IN HIS HARVEST.

Have a great day FOCUSED TOWARD FRUITFUL LABOR!
Carl

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Maintaining the Focus (4 of 5)

Consider the second illustration Paul shared with Timothy relating to maintaining a proper focus.
“An ATHLETE is not crowned unless HE COMPETES ACCORDING TO THE RULES.” (2 Timothy 2:5 ESV)

Athletics is as much about the mind as it is the body. I found this to be true when I wrestled. The training for competition includes a concentrated focus, consideration of proper diet, and plenty of exercise to build up endurance; all stemming from good discipline and self-control. There must also be a clear understanding of the rules of the game. And all the effort put into it has a lot to do with how much one really wants to win!

Writing to a church not too far from where the Greek games began, Paul wrote…
“(24) Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but only one receives the prize? SO RUN THAT YOU MAY OBTAIN IT. (25) Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. (26) So I DO NOT RUN AIMLESSLY; I do not box as one beating the air. (27) But I DISCIPLINE MY BODY AND KEEP IT UNDER CONTROL, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 ESV)

What is the picture of our spiritual life? How much do we want to taste the truest victory? We are in the greatest competition ever to be held. A course has been marked out before us and we must be ready to throw off anything that would hinder our ability to run with endurance. (Hebrews 12:1) Allowing ourselves to be sidetracked or to compromise the rules could knock us out of the race! Therefore, good discipline, a healthy spiritual diet, and self-control must be focused on as we press on to win!

May we keep focused on the race set before us, making sure we are remaining on course. Enduring will be worth the effort because there is a victor’s crown for all who lovingly long for the appearing of Jesus. (2 Timothy 4:8)

Have a great day SET FOR THE THRILL OF VICTORY IN JESUS!
Carl

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Maintaining the Focus (3 of 5)

As Paul wrote his second letter to encourage Timothy in his work, he presented three illustrations relating to maintaining a proper focus. Lord willing, over the next three days, we will note them one at a time.

The first illustration Paul presented was that of a soldier.
“No SOLDIER gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since HIS AIM IS TO PLEASE THE ONE WHO ENLISTED HIM.” (2 Timothy 2:4 ESV)

The Roman soldier was not allowed to have any other profession. Nothing was to interfere with his disciplined role as a soldier of the empire. He was to be always ready to follow orders and carry out whatever mission was given. To be guilty of any dereliction of duty was a very serious offence.

There is a real sense in which we are in the midst of a spiritual warfare. For that reason God has provided us with the spiritual armor we need to press on in the battle. (Ephesians 6:10-18) Some of the battles in this warfare are engaged against us from without, while others may rage within. Becoming overly entangled with the affairs of the world or too focused on our own wants can cause us to become off guard against attacks on our faith and godly focus.

We must always keep in mind Whose service we are in. It is impossible to serve two masters. We have been “enlisted” to serve Christ. Jesus must continue to be held as the Lord of our whole life. We are soldiers of Christ serving under His command. Writing to the church at Ephesus, Paul exhorted for them to “…try to discern what is PLEASING TO THE LORD.” (Ephesians 5:10 ESV) It is not self or society, but rather OUR LORD Whom we are to CONTINUALLY SEEK TO PLEASE.

As a commissioned soldier would always be on duty, so it is to be with us. It is a grave thing to be found asleep while on guard. We must remain watchful. Our own soul, as well as the souls of others, depends upon our diligence.

May we never forget we are under our Lord’s command. Our focus must remain centered on undivided devotion to His service. Let us be daily seeking to PLEASE HIM in all we do and say.

Have a great day WILLINGLY FOLLOWING HIS DIVINE ORDERS FOR LIFE!
Carl

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Maintaining the Focus (2 of 5)

Maintaining our focus on the things which count most for this life and the eternity to come is our continuing challenge. Yesterday we noted a good way to begin the day in order to provide a focus to carry us through. Since our focus is often challenged with being drawn so many different directions, we must be diligent in centering our focus on Christ and the hope of an eternity with Him. With our life properly centered we will be assisted in keeping everything else in perspective. However, if we lose that center we can quickly find ourselves beginning to wobble and veer off course.

Many aim at nothing and hit it with marvelous accuracy. We need a goal, but it must be the right goal. As you focus on school studies you may have career goals in mind. If you are already in a career you may have promotion or even retirement plans in view. But whatever the goals might be, how do they fit in relation to the final goal of heaven? Are the intermediary goals steps toward the heavenward goal or do they lead another direction?

Like Paul, we must keep our eye on the ultimate goal, as he stated...
“(12) Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. (13) Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. BUT ONE THING I DO: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, (14) I PRESS ON TOWARD THE GOAL FOR THE PRIZE OF THE UPWARD CALL OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS.” (Philippians 3:12-14 ESV)

“ONE THING I DO”; a singular focus. That is what helped Paul keep on track. When we were baptized, having been united with Christ, we did pass from “death to life.” (John 5:24; 1 John 3:14) However, that does not mean we have crossed the finish line. Like Paul, we must continue to keep “straining forward to what lies ahead.” Knowing the prize was promised on the other side of the finish line he would not be deterred from pressing on toward the goal.

With so many things to do we must be sure we have not dropped our focus from the ONE THING we need most to do; and that is to keep the ultimate goal of heaven in view. The things of yesterday cannot be allowed to impede and the busy tasks of today cannot be permitted to come between us and that final goal. The urgent stuff of life must not be allowed to deter us from the important stuff. Of all the things we do, this ONE THING we dare not neglect. May we keep the heavenward goal in focus so that all the other things we do will remain in proper relation to it. The runner who looks back usually stumbles. Let us diligently press on with our eye fixed on the goal.

Have a great day WITH FOCUS CENTERED ON THE HEAVENWARD GOAL!
Carl

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Maintaining the Focus! (1 of 5)

Life is full of distractions. How often do we find ourselves focused on a task (a project, homework, a chore we want to get finished, etc.) only to find ourselves interrupted again and again. It is generally easier to approach a task when we know we can devote our attention to it without being pulled away. There are times when I have put off a task when it appeared I would not have an adequate time slot in which to be able to fully focus upon it.

Perhaps this is the experience in our spiritual lives. We so much want to keep our focus on the things of God, but with so many things going on around us competing for that focus it is often a challenge. We want to follow Christ but find ourselves being dragged off (either physically or mentally) some other direction. What can we do to maintain our focus where God would have it throughout the day?

In that long chapter of Psalms which focused so much on the commands, decrees, statutes, testimonies, and word of God, we read the following exhortation in its second section…
“(9) HOW CAN A YOUNG MAN KEEP HIS WAY PURE? BY GUARDING IT ACCORDING TO YOUR WORD. (10) WITH MY WHOLE HEART I SEEK YOU; let me not wander from your commandments! (11) I HAVE STORED UP YOUR WORD IN MY HEART, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:9-11 ESV)

How can the young (and the older) keep their way and focus pure. Focusing in GOD’S WORD on a DAILY basis is the key. My morning Bible reading is important enough to me that it is marked off on my DAILY “To Do” list like any other appointment or task of the day. Quite often the “teEn-MAIL” focus for the day is generated from the passages I have read that morning and continued to meditate on.

Did you note the psalmist’s statement, “I have stored up your word in my heart”? If we are not filling ourselves with God’s Word we are leaving a void that other thoughts are going to end up occupying. We also need God’s Word to push out some of the things already there. Remember the Bereans who searched the Scriptures DAILY (Acts 17:11) because they did not want to accept any ideas contrary to it.

I encourage you to spend some time reading your Bible EVERY DAY; especially as a start for your day each morning. (Set your alarm a little earlier if that is necessary to provide a few minutes for this.) That time in the morning is important because it is time from which the rest of the day will spring. From the portion of Scripture you read, copy down at least one verse to focus on through the day. Try committing the verse to memory or at the least pull it out several times during the day to meditate on its message. When you find your thoughts beginning to move the wrong direction, focus on the passage again. As the psalmist pointed out, the purpose for storing up God’s Word in our heart is that we might not sin against Him.

If we want to continue becoming more and more like Christ, we must allow the “word of Christ” to dwell in us richly. (Colossians 3:16). I know it can be challenging, but by continually meditating on His words and even having the words of some of our favorite songs of praise running through our mind, we will find much help in keeping our focus on track. This is a good beginning to our quest of seeking Him with our whole heart.

Have a great day FORTIFIED BY A DAILY DOSE OF GOD’S WORD!
Carl

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Not Be Moved!

With all the changing and flip-flopping that goes on around us with regard to where people stand and the varying values competing for acceptance, it is of paramount importance that our life is properly anchored in that which is FIRMLY ESTABLISHED. Without anything of a stable nature we will find our lives in the midst of turmoil. We are living in very turbulent times morally, politically, and spiritually. This may cause us to wonder at times what is going to eventually give way and what the fallout might be.

As I was reading in Isaiah this morning, the following verse caught my attention.
“ ‘For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but MY STEADFAST LOVE SHALL NOT DEPART from you, and MY COVENANT OF PEACE SHALL NOT BE REMOVED,’ says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” (Isaiah 54:10 ESV)

What wonderful encouragement to God’s people that His love and covenant remained. The mountains could depart, but not the mountainous love of God. Though the hills might crack and crumble from the elements (wind and rain), God’s love has weathered well the challenges it has faced. Praise God His love has not been withdrawn. Except for by our own choice of departure, we cannot be separated from it. (Romans 8:35-39)

When we become anxious regarding some of the things of life we need to remember God’s immoveable love. His love and promises are FIRMLY ESTABLISHED. And our concerns need to be brought to Him that we may receive assurance of being FIRMLY ESTABLISHED in Him.

David exhorted…
“CAST YOUR BURDEN ON THE LORD, and he will sustain you; HE WILL NEVER PERMIT THE RIGHTEOUS TO BE MOVED.” (Psalm 55:22 ESV)

Our life can only be as strong as the foundation on which it rests. True stability will only come through remaining connected to that which is truly FIRMLY ESTABLISHED. May we remain securely connected to God’s immoveable love. Regardless of what is going on in this world He remains God and will always be our constant hope.

Have a great day WITH HOPE ASSUREDLY ANCHORED IN GOD!
Carl

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Wearing Self Out!

Sometimes someone reveals the desire to do something others might not want to do and they are told, “Knock yourself out!” And there are many things we might become involved in which in the process of doing them we can literally knock ourselves out in the sense of wearing ourselves out. Even the very manner of living chosen by some tends to do so (i.e. spreading oneself too thin, trying to “keep up with the Joneses”, etc.). However, there is one LIFESTYLE method of wearing ourselves out that actually helps us keep some things in proper perspective. It has been stated “The praise-life wears out the self-life.”

Is our LIFESTYLE marked by a spirit of praise? If not, we might be too caught up in self to recognize what ought to be praised. Some people are so focused on self they seem to be unable to praise anyone regardless of what they have accomplished, let alone God.

Note two passages from the Psalms.
“It is GOOD TO GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD, to sing PRAISES TO YOUR NAME, O Most High;” (Psalm 92:1 ESV)
“(1) BLESS THE LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, BLESS HIS HOLY NAME! (2) BLESS THE LORD, O my soul, AND FORGET NOT ALL HIS BENEFITS,” (Psalm 103:1-2 ESV)

If we find we are not praising God very much, it may be because we are still too focused on self. On the other hand, when we keep focused on the praise God is due for all He has done, continues to do, and will provide -- that helps maintain the proper perspective regarding self. We need God! We cannot make it on our own! Our dependence upon Him and the strength He provides is something for which we should always retain an acute awareness. And as we give our lives in service to Him we must always remember it is His work and His harvest with which we are involved.

May God continue to be the focal point of our life that He may receive the continual praise He is due. Let our aim be to daily offer to Him a sacrifice of praise. (Hebrews 13:15) This is the LIFESTYLE that will do the most in keeping self in its place.

Have a great day ALLOWING ALL WITHIN US TO PRAISE GOD!
Carl

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A Father Who Keeps On Trying!

As we read through the Old Testament, surveying the history of Israel’s moving in and out of faithfulness to God, we ought to be impressed with both God’s continual effort to regain the attention of His people by various means (message of His prophets, captivity, the example of God’s dealings with various nations, etc.) and His willingness to receive them back again.
For the sake of His servant David and the sake of His eternal plan God would not give up. He would punish, but He would not completely destroy. His hope was continually held out because of His desire for the nation to be drawn by His gracious love and magnanimous mercy. Though Jerusalem at times felt they had been forgotten (Isaiah 49:14) they were not. God would not put the nation out of His mind! unrelenting

Through the prophet Isaiah we have God’s sentiment well stated.
“Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I WILL NOT FORGET YOU.” (Isaiah 49:15 ESV)

The New Living Translation reads…
“NEVER! Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for a child she has borne? But even if that were possible, I WOULD NOT FORGET YOU!” [NLT, © 1997, Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House]

If you talk to most mothers they will tell you how true this is. Ask your mother if it is not so. Regardless of what a child may have done, to their mother that is still their child; still their own flesh and blood.
Even when that child runs away and is gone for a long period of time, that mother does not forget her child and looks longingly for their return. But God’s point was that even should a mother reach a point where she would FORGET, HE WOULD NOT!

It has always been God’s desire to gain the attention of the world.
(Acts 17:26-27; Romans 1:19-20) Perhaps we often wonder why God has not just given up on the world and sent His Son to bring the redeemed home and send His fire upon the unrighteous. But God is patient (2 Peter 3:9) and continues to longingly hold out hope to the wayward. He has displayed an unrelenting desire for His creation to respond favorably to Him. Praise God that His desire is to forget our sins, but NOT TO FORGET US. May we continue to respond to every sign of His mindfulness of our life.

Have a great day DRAWN BY GOD’S UNRELENTING LOVE!
Carl

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A Zealous Spirit!

The Greek from which we get the word “zealous” (zeleuo, zelos, zeloo) points to the idea of setting one’s heart on something, being diligent, eager, and earnest. And the object on which the heart is so set is important to consider. Paul was one who never seemed to be lacking with regard to a spirit of zealousness. Though the zeal in his life before submitting to Christ was not always properly directed (i.e. Philippians 3:6) it was a powerful characteristic of his life.

In what ways is a zealous spirit to be evident in our own life? To begin with we must be certain our zeal is in accordance with proper knowledge.
(Romans 10:2) We ought to be zealous for good works (Titus 2:14); that being characteristic of those who belong to God. Zealousness should be an attribute of those who are leaders. (Romans 12:8) We ought to possess a zealousness with regard to proper relationships with one another within the church. (2 Corinthians 7:7) Paul also mentioned the zeal of the Corinthians in their generosity which in turn encouraged the generosity of others. (2 Corinthians 9:1-2) To what extent has our heart been set on such things?

From all of this we ought to clearly understand how important it is to possess a spirit of zealousness. However, there is one more association the Scriptures mention which also must be kept in mind.

Note part of the counsel directed to the church at Laodicea.
“Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so BE ZEALOUS AND REPENT.” (Revelation 3:19 ESV)

What will it mean for us to possess a zeal for REPENTANCE? Such zeal will indicate a diligence in seeking for our life to remain on the right track. Instead of reluctance to give up worldly things, such a spirit will reflect an eagerness to give up whatever might stand between us and God. We will have an eager readiness to turn around at the first hint of moving the wrong direction. There will also be an earnestness in setting our heart on things above (Colossians 3:2) as we strive to please the Lord in all we say and do in life.

May we truly possess a genuine zeal associated with a proper understanding of God’s Will. Living daily with a heart eagerly responding to the Word of God will serve to retain our faithful relationship to Him and sustain a life of faithful service to His glory.

Have a great day LIVING PASSIONATELY FOR GOD!
Carl

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Those Words!

Words. They can sure give us TROUBLE. There are occasions when people end up having to eat their words. Sometimes individuals have statements they have made in the past come back to haunt them. There are also occasions when someone is told, “Take back those words.” Have we been there? Perhaps we at times have wished we had seasoned our speech with salt (Colossians 4:6) since we found ourselves having to eat our words. We may have also experienced the regret of having said something that came back to us years later or spoke words in anger and haste of which we really wished we could have immediately taken them back. James declared that anyone who does not stumble in what he says is a perfect man. (James 3:2) If only our tongue were not in such a slippery place.

I wish I could offer some advice that would eliminate completely such slips of the tongue from ever happening again. Though patience with others and constantly being on guard may reduce the number of incidences and keep us out of TROUBLE, we are not always perfect in what we say. With God, however, that is not the case. God has never spoken rashly. What He has declared (whether it be a promise or a warning) has been spoken just as it should be. He is not one to misspeak. God has never been guilty of a slip of the tongue. That is why the world needs to learn to pay attention to what He has said. Though we as humans may spend much time involved in idle chit chat, that is not the way of God. “Every Word of God proves true” (Proverbs 30:5a ESV) and shall continue to do so to the end. To that end what is utmost to be paid attention to?

Through Isaiah, God stated…
“(22) Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other. (23) By myself I have sworn; FROM MY MOUTH has gone out in righteousness A WORD THAT SHALL NOT RETURN: ‘To me EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW, EVERY TONGUE SHALL SWEAR ALLEGIANCE.’” (Isaiah 45:22-23 ESV)

A time will come when the authority of God and His Word will be acknowledged by all. This is what God has declared. These are not words He will be taking back. Yet these very words may someday come back to haunt those who refuse to believe them now. Though we may find ourselves in TROUBLE when we have misspoken, the REAL TROUBLE comes when God is not taken at His Word. May we use our tongue (and encourage others to do the same) to continually declare our allegiance to God now so that we are prepared for the end to which God has spoken.

Have a great day ACCEPTING GOD’S RIGHTEOUS WORD!
Carl

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Handling The Info!

Whenever people tell us something about themselves, especially information that is very personally sensitive, they are indicating they believe we will be trustworthy with the information shared. It may also be an indication they see us as an individual who can provide some encouragement, direction, or other help. God’s desire is for His family, the church, to be a place where we can connect with others of a kindred spirit for such sharing. In light of the relationship we each have with God we should be drawn closer to each other. (i.e. 1 John 4:20-21) It is also important for us to create such a place because the advice and direction the world provides is not always in accordance with God’s standard for morality and godliness.

Someone has said, “Confess your sins, not your neighbor’s sins.”
[source: “1600 Squibs And Quips” compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

James encouraged…
“Therefore, CONFESS YOUR SINS TO ONE ANOTHER AND PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” (James 5:16 ESV)

I cannot pardon you for your sin and neither can you for mine. When sin has been confessed to us, other than helping to provide support and direction by being there for others, the best thing to do with the information is to take it to God in PRAYER. He is the One Who has provided the means of adequately dealing with sin through the Son, Jesus Christ. When the confessed sin is talked about to others it becomes gossip which seldom provides any aid or solution. In fact, in most cases such makes matters worse, even creating a barrier to support that could have been offered. When the matter is taken to God in PRAYER it is being handed to the One Who does have the solution to sin’s dilemma.

Let us strive to be always loving and kind when others pour out their heart before us. We all need brothers and sisters who are willing to lift us up to God in PRAYER. Even as we take the cares of others to God in PRAYER we will receive the benefit of having our own focus drawn closer to Him as well.

Have a great day TAKING MATTERS TO GOD!
Carl

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Sorry About That!

Perhaps you can picture the scene played out again and again within the homes of many with small children. Two young siblings, a brother and sister, playing well together until the brother wants what the sister has. He hits her and pushes here down as he grabs the toy away, causing her to go crying to Mommy. Brother is then told to tell Sister he is sorry. “I’m sorry, Sister.” Then back to playing they go until the very same thing happens again only a few moments later.

“I’m sorry.” Are those words which are too easily said, not just by small children, but by the rest of us as well? How often have our actions affected another and our response was simply “Sorry ’bout that” while we rushed on as if nothing ever happened? And even more so, what is the depth of the sorrow when we are apologizing to God? It may be difficult for us to detect how sincere others are, but God is able to clearly perceive the genuineness (or lack thereof) of our sorrow.

Someone has said, “To grieve over sin is one thing; to repent is another.” In other words, what kind of action does the sorrow prompt in our life?

Paul, writing to the church at Corinth, contrasted two kinds of sorrow.
“For GODLY GRIEF PRODUCES A REPENTANCE THAT LEADS TO SALVATION WITHOUT REGRET, whereas worldly grief produces death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10 ESV)

The New Living Translation reads: “ For God can use sorrow in our lives to help us turn away from sin and seek salvation. We will never regret that kind of sorrow. But sorrow without repentance is the kind that results in death.” [NLT, 1997, Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House]

I have often contrasted these two by simply stating that worldly sorrow is just being sorry for having been caught (jails being filled with such folk) while GODLY SORROW (or grief) goes deep enough to move one toward A GENUINE CHANGE of direction (REPENTANCE) in life. Not just words being said. Not just saying what might be expected. Rather than regretting having been caught, there can be rejoicing in having clearly seen what needed to be TURNED AWAY FROM so that salvation could be ours!

May we always strive to maintain a GENUINE PENITENT SPIRIT before God, that by His wonderful work of forgiveness and renewal we can be freed from regret and separation from Him. God is always ready to accept our sincere apology as we TURN OUR HEARTS BACK toward Him.

Have a great day KNOWING AUTHENTIC APOLOGY ACCEPTED!
Carl

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For Our Times!

Though this world’s governments are far from perfect, their existence and purpose were instituted by God (Romans 13:1-2) [note also 1 Peter 2:13-15] and praying for our leaders is pleasing to Him. (1 Timothy 2:1-3) Christianity has flourished under various types of governments and we need to be careful we do not equate Democracy with Christianity. They are not one and the same. Though I have a great appreciation for much of the freedom we can enjoy here, it is that very freedom which has promoted a lack of STABILITY in some areas of our society. The freedom of democracy providing everyone the opportunity to voice their views and push their own agendas has done a lot to create much of the chaos and sharp division among activists today. And though the freedom of speech is a Constitutional right, we may feel quite often that we as Christians are being told to shut up!

Those of you who are teens, though you are not of voting age may still be aware of some of the issues our country is facing at this time. I am far from being a political activist, but I do have concerns regarding elections next month and items which will be included on the ballot. All candidates running for the varying offices on both state and national levels are imperfect beings with varying personal beliefs. Such makes for somewhat of a muddy mix to try to sort through. Remember all those placed in positions of authority and leadership in this world have limited wisdom. Depending on the elected administration in our own country there is the possibility of dynamic policy changes every four years.

Personally I don’t know what the solution is for economic STABILITY? I don’t know what the key is to getting more people back to work or bringing peace between our nation and those who so strongly oppose us. However, when it comes to the greater issues of life I do know where the STABILITY can come.

Around the time of Hezekiah (king of Judah) we read the following from the prophet Isaiah…
“(5) The Lord is exalted, for he dwells on high; he will fill Zion with justice and righteousness, (6) and HE WILL BE THE STABILITY OF YOUR TIMES, abundance of SALVATION, WISDOM, and KNOWLEDGE; the fear of the Lord is Zion’s treasure.” (Isaiah 33:5-6 ESV)

Though I like the phrase, we really are not “one nation under God.” The truth is our country is a nation of people who are living under many diverse ideologies. The only way to bring unity amongst such diversity is for God’s ultimate authority to be acknowledged. But even if others won’t acknowledge it, we can still have STABILITY in our own lives and in our own homes when it is God to Whom we look for our “salvation, wisdom, and knowledge.”
Regardless of the challenges we face, God and His purposes and truth will ultimately prevail. We can count on it! Just as during the above noted period of the kingdom of Judah, for our times God is still the source of our STABILITY.

With God there is no administration change every four years. What He has decreed yesterday is still to be upheld today and is what will be expected tomorrow. It is that consistency of His Will that will bring the greatest STABILITY to our lives regardless of the instability created by mankind around us. Though our whole nation may not be under God, by living our own lives continually under His authority we will receive the praise of God. May our true allegiance to Him be clearly evident in our daily lives.

Have a great day LIVING AS A FAITHFUL CITIZEN OF GOD’S KINGDOM!
Carl

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What On Earth's The Matter?

Young Mrs. Scott, attending her first ball game, listened patiently to her husband’s brief explanations. But when he sprang from his seat and waved his hat madly, Mrs. Scott exclaimed: “What on earth’s the matter, John?”

“Why,” he answered, “didn’t you see the fielder catch the ball?”

“Of course,” said Mrs. Scott quietly. “I thought that was what he was out there for.”

—Daily News, Ontario
[from: Tan, Paul Lee, Encyclopedia of 7,700 Illustrations, (Garland, Texas:
Bible Communications, Inc.) 1996. illust. 232]

We have people today who are called heroes for doing things it seems more of us should be doing: just being there to help others; just being there to make a difference. But I guess they are heroes because they stand out for becoming involved with what many are unwilling to do. Now I am not trying to diminish the goodness of people whose actions have been noticed, and there have been many times when the individual shrugs it off as only something anybody else would have done -- they just happened to be there. But when simple honesty or simple courtesies draw lots of attention or surprise -- that is simply sad commentary on our society today that more people don’t respond in kind!

Maybe these would not attract so much attention if everyone was doing what they should and offering the support to others that is needed. But then those acts of kindness and those kind people might go unnoticed. However, is that why these things are to be done? Are acts of kindness done to be noticed or done because they ought to be done? Shouldn’t they be done simply because that’s what we’re out there to do?

Don’t worry that society or the newspapers might not get excited about the action. Don’t let that keep you from doing your part in making a difference in the game of life. Big or small, our acts of kindness are important. And the deed will be noticed by the one who receives the kind action as well as by the God who has called us to love others and consider their needs. Remember Jesus said, “...YOUR FATHER WHO SEES IN SECRET, WILL REWARD YOU.” (Matthew 6:4 ESV) [Open your Bible and read verses 1-4 for the full context.] And the Hebrew writer stated: “For GOD IS NOT SO UNJUST AS TO OVERLOOK YOUR WORK and the love that you showed for his sake in serving the saints, as you still do.” (Hebrews 6:10 ESV)

Have a great day DOING WHAT YOU ARE OUT THERE FOR!
Carl

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Properly Groomed!

I read sometime ago about someone who had a pet duck that drowned in their small backyard pond. Imagine, a duck drowning. To me that seemed at bit bizarre. All the ducks I have ever seen appeared to be excellent swimmers. But this duck did drown. Since it baffled the family, they took the duck to their vet to find out what had happened and found out the duck had not properly groomed itself. There is a special oil which ducks use to waterproof themselves. This oil is produced beneath their wings and as ducks groom themselves this oil is spread through their feathers to repel water. Without this oil a duck would become waterlogged and thus sink like a rock. Apparently that is what happened with this particular duck.

Just as we might say this duck rather than being "in" the water ended up "of" the water, we have a similar challenge in life. We are "in" the world, but are not to be "of" it. (John 17:15-18) In order to meet this challenge and keep our lives afloat we must be properly groomed, otherwise we too could end up becoming waterlogged by the world and find ourselves sinking like a rock.

Do we have proper "spiritual" grooming habits? Note what God said through His prophet, Isaiah:
“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord; my soul shall exult in my God, for he has CLOTHED ME WITH THE GARMENTS OF SALVATION; HE HAS COVERED ME WITH THE ROBE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.”
(Isaiah 61:10 ESV)

Earlier in Isaiah 61:3 we have a reference also to the "OIL OF GLADNESS" and a "GARMENT OF PRAISE."

The tendency today is to spend much time in front of the mirror hoping to prevent having a "bad hair day" (I only have "no hair" days), or looking through the closet for just the right outfit. Let's be careful we are not so caught up in trying to look good (i.e. pleasing to that guy or gal you're trying to gain the attention of, your peers, or employer, etc) in merely a physical sense. We need to be most concerned about our spiritual grooming.
We could be beautiful to the world and yet disgustingly ugly and repulsive in God's eyes. May you be beautifully clothed in salvation, righteousness, and praise, as well as groomed with the oil of gladness in knowing the beautiful Creation into which God is transforming you. Immerse yourself in God's word even beyond the focus of these daily messages so you can maintain proper grooming. If you don't, you stand the chance of becoming waterlogged by the world to which you are daily exposed. God has prepared a means by which you can be protected and stay afloat.

Have a great day GROOMED BY THE LORD!
Carl

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A Five Leg Dog?

A F I V E L E G D O G ?

Abraham Lincoln is said to have had a favorite riddle which he used to put to his colleagues. This is the way it went: “If a man were to call the tail of a dog a leg, how many legs would the dog have?”

The usual reply was, “Five.”

With a smile Lincoln would say, “Wrong. The dog still has four legs.
Calling the tail a leg doesn’t make it one.”

Oh how our world today needs to hear the wisdom in that. Why do so many want to call things other than what they are? Changing the labels does not change the reality.

In Isaiah 5:20 we read:
“Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” (ESV)

God has revealed how He views things. Let’s acknowledge His labels. Don’t let the world pull a quick one on you by changing the labels. Just as “A rose by any other name is still a rose”, so wrong by any other name is still wrong. Regardless of what even the so called “experts” say, truth is still truth and God’s Word is still relevant for our lives today. Let’s keep God’s standard in view. See it like it is!

Have a great day SEEING AS GOD SEES!
Carl

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Flipped Over!

It is sometimes comical to see small children who desire to have the freedom to begin dressing themselves. As they smile proudly it may be difficult to hold back a chuckle in view of inside out or backward clothing. And then we see children who tend to play with or carry some things upside down; a situation not always funny since in the process the contents of upside down containers may be spilled to create a huge mess. The saddest thing, however, is the reality that some have not grown out of this stage with regard to the things of God. There are some situations in life where God’s “THIS SIDE UP!” label seems so clear to me, yet is ignored by many who stack up life anyway they choose. And some have become so confused by it all they don’t know which way is up!

Note how some were spoken as such through the prophet Isaiah.
“YOU TURN THINGS UPSIDE DOWN! Shall the potter be regarded as the clay, that the thing made should say of its maker, ‘He did not make me’; or the thing formed say of him who formed it, ‘He has no understanding’?” (Isaiah 29:16 ESV)

There are those who say God didn’t create man, but man created the idea of God so as to have an object to blame for life’s problems or to use the concept of a God to control people. When one’s understanding of God is upside down it tends to turn most everything else upside down as well. Should it surprise us at all the chaos and confusion in the world today? God is not a God of chaos and confusion! (1 Corinthians 14:33) That has been mankind’s contribution to the world. From the very beginning of Creation God brought about design and order. And His Word has been preserved to provide order to our lives as well.

When Paul and Silas were in Thessalonica, they were accused of having “turned the world upside down” with their teaching. (Acts 17:6) However, in a real sense, the teaching of the Gospel of Jesus helps to turn the world back RIGHT SIDE UP. The problem is that many have been hanging upside down for so long, to turn RIGHT SIDE UP makes them dizzy and it may take them a little while to gain a better focus. Therefore, let us be patient with them while we continue to live and speak in a manner which reveals, by the wisdom of God, which way truly is up!

Have a great day LIVING UPRIGHT IN AN UPSIDE DOWN WORLD.
Carl

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True Generosity!

The generosity of many people has followed them in death. From the wealth left behind foundations have been established, scholarships have been funded, medical science has been advanced, and many many other great benefits have been provided. Such generosity is worthy of note and commendation. However, how generous were some of these folks while they were living. There are many wealthy individuals who do provide generously for various causes (i.e. Bill Gates), but there are also those who horde their fortunes until their death, sometimes even leaving family fighting fiercely over who gets what. The real issue, however, is what kind of generosity is pictured in our own life?

Someone has noted that “To give in one’s lifetime is true generosity; to bequeath after death is mere convenience.”

Perhaps Solomon had in mind the challenge of considering “convenience”
rather than need when he wrote…
“Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come again, TOMORROW I WILL GIVE IT’ -- when you have it with you.” (Proverbs 3:28 ESV)

I have found in ministry that a lot of things happen at inconvenient times. To be honest, sometimes that has frustrated me. There have been times I have said to myself (or my wife), “I don’t have TIME for this right now.” The perspective which must be kept in mind is the importance of people and their true needs. There are situations when it’s money or possessions we are called upon to be generous with. However, there are other occasions when it is OUR TIME. And it is only in life that we can be generous with that. We cannot bequeath OUR TIME after death. We cannot provided others with an inheritance of TIME. Nobody sits through the reading of a will and hears, “…and to my children I leave six years to be divided equally between them.”

Some of the things on my “to do” list are less important than people. How about yours? Though material wealth has not been evenly spread among everyone in the world, all of us have been given the same number of minutes per day and WE ultimately choose how we will use them. May we use them wisely. May we spend them to the glory of God. And may we also be willing to use them generously for others. To slightly rephrase Solomon’s statement: Let us not withhold the TIME when we have it with us.

Have a great day EXHIBITING CHARITABLE CHARACTER TOWARD OTHERS!
Carl

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Avoiding Being Tripped Up!

Walking around town I notice many things painted brightly to draw attention to them. That includes some of the old Victorian style houses that really stand out when you see them, but I am particularly thinking of the fire hydrants, curbs painted to mark fire-lanes and other no parking areas, and uneven sections of sidewalk. Around our community we have a lot of stretches of old sidewalk. As I take some of my walks through these areas I appreciate the bright yellow paint marking the cracked and slightly raise sections of sidewalk, making them visible long before I reach them. That clear warning saves me from FALLING because I have found it only takes a fraction of an inch rise to cause me to trip when I am not watchful. Seeing the yellow saves me from seeing the red or black and blue (and
embarrassment) that can result from a FALL.

Perhaps we would find life easier if those things that tend to trip us up and cause us to FALL were painted a bright florescent yellow. Any warnings beforehand would surely help us. But isn’t that what spiritual growth is all about?

As Peter encouraged those to whom he wrote, he mentioned things important to be added to faith: virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. (2 Peter 1:5-7 ESV) Peter also pointed out that anyone who lacked these qualities was so nearsighted that they were blind, forgetting they had been cleansed from their former sins. (2 Peter 1:9)

I wear glasses to correct nearsightedness. That helps me see those painted sections of sidewalk in the distance. However, I also have bifocals for reading, which sometimes cause a little distortion for curbs and sidewalk cracks right at my feet. I must therefore remain watchful for the warning signs to keep me from FALLING.

Peter went on to encourage…
“Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure, for IF YOU PRACTICE THESE QUALITIES YOU WILL NEVER FALL.” (2 Peter 1:10 ESV)

Even as we go through familiar activities we must remain watchful. I have found myself stumbling over the same raised piece of sidewalk more than once. As I was hitting about the eleventh mile on my walk this morning, I just about stumbled over a very slightly uneven spot between sections of sidewalk which made me think of how we need to be extra watchful during the times we are a bit weary and worn out by some of life’s challenges. But if we remain watchful and continue to prepare our life by increasing in the qualities Peter mentioned, our life’s walk will go well.

Have a great day WALKING SAFELY ON!
Carl

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Beyond The Moment!

For some JOY is seen as possessing lots of things or having “fun” doing whatever it is that they want to do. However, when JOY is merely centered in that which is temporary, the JOY lasts for only a moment and must again be fed by some other pursuit. There are some things in which people find JOY for a moment that are just plain wrong! It therefore seems to me that real LASTING JOY is not as much a goal achieved as it is a blessing received.

The statement has been made that “Joy is the by-product of obedience to God.”

There are some things which in and of themselves might not appear JOYFUL, but can nevertheless bring LASTING JOY. Both the lives of Jesus and Paul reveal this truth.

Consider Jesus’ obedience to the Father’s plan.
“(1) Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (2) looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, WHO FOR THE JOY THAT WAS SET BEFORE HIM ENDURED THE CROSS, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV)

Paul also found it in surrender to service to the glory of God.
“I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. IN ALL OUR AFFLICTION, I AM OVERFLOWING WITH JOY.” (2 Corinthians 7:4 ESV)

To the world it may appear strange to associate suffering with JOY. We should, however, bear in mind that though the world might think joy and fun are synonymous, they are not the same. Certainly Jesus did not find enduring the cross to be fun. Neither would Paul have viewed as fun his varied afflictions and trials. Nevertheless, there was great JOY in living to the glory and praise of God!

Though some of life’s trials may in reality be extremely tough, to know the relationship is right with God, that the life being lived is pleasing to Him because it is being carried out in accordance with His Will, and to trust God in relation to the even greater things that are to come; that is all cause for the OVERFLOWING OF JOY. May we never lose sight of the true source of LASTING JOY; a JOY from God that provides great strength for life. (Nehemiah 8:10). By living the life God has given us for Him and His purposes, we will find the blessing of a JOY that truly knows no bounds!

Have a great day JOYFULLY LIVING LIFE FOR GOD!
Carl

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Being Spiritual!

Being mature would indicate one is mature about the way they act rather than being childish. To be spiritual would imply one would respond and act with a spiritual attitude.

Paul exhorted…
“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, YOU WHO ARE SPIRITUAL should RESTORE HIM in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1 ESV)

Two challenges which sometimes arise when one considers their spiritual stature are: [1] thinking they are stronger than they might really be and [2] the possession of an overbearing rather than meek spirit. To one degree or another -- and depending on the situation -- we might find ourselves facing these challenges.

With regard to the first challenge, we should always bear in mind temptation is nothing to play around with. As we attempt to help others, we must be HUMBLE enough to recognize we ourselves are not always as strong as we might think we are. While trying to influence others toward godliness, we must keep up our guard lest we become influenced by them toward the same temptation.

The second challenge also has a lot to do with attitude. The truth of God must always be firmly held, however, there are times when individuals who see themselves as very “spiritual” may tend to come across in a very condemning and harsh manner rather than in a spirit of GENTLENESS. When this is the case the attempt at restoration may do more to drive others away than to draw them back.

When I look at the life of our Lord Jesus Christ, I don’t see Him shocked by sin as much as He appeared amazed at those who were “spiritually” arrogant. Please don’t misunderstand me as saying we should not recognize the seriousness of sin. It is because of the seriousness of sin and temptation that Paul gave the above exhortation to the Galatians. Sin needs to be acknowledged as sin. Jesus was also clear about the need for repentance, even telling one sinner to “go and sin no more.” (John 8:11) But He approached those in need of doing so with a spirit of compassion, GENTLENESS, and love. It is the spiritual who are being trained in discerning between that which is right and wrong (i.e. Hebrews 5:14), thus being in a position to aid in restoration. Yet it is to be approached with a Christ-like attitude.

God wants us to be spiritual. We should be constantly striving for greater spirituality. Such will prove to be a benefit for ourselves and those who can use our help. Nevertheless, we must never forget the spirit of HUMILITY and GENTLENESS that is also a sign of truly being spiritual beings.

Have a great day GROWING IN THE GRACIOUSNESS OF CHRIST!
Carl

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A Sense of Accomplishment!

To find a sense of enjoyment and SATISFACTION in our actions and labors in this life is good. While viewing life in general, Solomon said as much.
(Ecclesiastes 5:18) To be able to someday look back with pleasure on some of the things we have done helps remove regret that might otherwise be experienced. How sad to survey the years of life that have passed wondering what it was all for. Nevertheless, there is another side to being SATISFIED we do need to guard against.

Someone has pointed out… “It is good to be gratified but dangerous to be satisfied.”

Once Paul acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah and allowed Him to become the Lord of His life, he was able to accomplish much good to the glory of God. As he neared the end of his life he could peacefully acknowledge …“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7 ESV) This allowed Paul to confidently look forward to what the Lord had in store for him. (2 Timothy 4:8) However, while focused on living and serving Paul maintained a perspective which kept him from becoming complacent in himself.

Writing to the church at Philippi Paul stated…
“(12) NOT THAT I HAVE ALREADY OBTAINED THIS OR AM ALREADY PERFECT, BUT I PRESS ON to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.
(13) Brothers, I DO NOT CONSIDER THAT I HAVE MADE IT MY OWN. But one thing I
do: forgetting what lies behind and STRAINING FORWARD TO WHAT LIES AHEAD,
(14) I PRESS ON toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:12-14 ESV)

Paul recognized that spiritually he had not yet arrived. Neither have we. To become SATISFIED with ourselves can cause us to stop growing toward what God desires us to be. At one point in Paul’s life he appeared to have depended upon his own righteousness. However, once he came to know Christ he realized it was a righteousness that came through faith in Christ and a righteousness from God that was needed. (Philippians 3:9)

May we be encouraged by the pleasure we can find in viewing what we are able to be involved in and the accomplishments associated with our life. But at the same time let us continue striving to become all that God wants us to be by allowing Him to do His work in and through us. The day will come when we will arrive -- living in the eternal presence of our Lord.

Have a great day PRESSING ONWARD AND UPWARD!
Carl

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Right Angle on Life!

When we are introduced to the tone of life at the time of Noah, just to read the words should cause us to see that it was a distressing sight. And such was the view of God.

Moses recorded…
“(5) the Lord saw that THE WICKEDNESS OF MAN WAS GREAT on the earth, and that EVERY INTENTION OF THE THOUGHTS OF HIS HEART WAS ONLY EVIL CONTINUALLY. (6) And the Lord was sorry that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart.” (Genesis 6:5-6 ESV)

What a description! “…EVERY INTENTION … ONLY EVIL CONTINUALLY.” No wonder it grieved the heart of God! The NIV translates it as “EVERY INCLINATION … EVIL ALL THE TIME.” Evil was what they were wholly INCLINED toward! The angle of their INCLINATION was a DE-cline rather than an IN-cline!

The statement has been made: “No one lacks for ways of doing good -- only for the inclination.” Yes, that’s what they lacked -- an INCLINATION for good. As we approach life we should seek to be INCLINED upwardly rather than sloping downward as the ways of the world. Certainly it takes more effort to go up an INCLINE than to coast down one. But the picture of our life should be one that is marked by an onward and upward progression toward God.

Are we keeping a right angle on life? We are if we are continuing to develop a greater INCLINATION for good. May we diligently seek to make our EVERY INCLINATION be ONLY GOOD CONTINUALLY as we strive to live fulfilling the good and perfect Will of God.

Have a great day LIVING TO GLADDEN THE HEART OF GOD!
Carl

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