Power Passages! (8 of 11)

What God gives is always good. That is because God is good. His gifts are in character with His essence of holiness and righteousness. Though we come to Him and submit to Him in humility and meekness, we are met by His willingness to EMPOWER our lives.

Paul reminded Timothy...
“for God gave us A SPIRIT not of fear but OF POWER and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7 ESV)

The timidity we experience in life is of ourselves. It comes through the dependence on our own abilities and strength. But God has given us a SPIRIT OF POWER. Are we depending upon that spirit? Are we utilizing God’s POWER so as to have the boldness needed in the face of falsehood and opposition to God’s Way? May we each day, in all situations, remember the SPIRIT OF POWER God has given us for living and service in His Kingdom.

Have a great day DRIVEN BY GOD’S SPIRIT OF POWER!
Carl

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Power Passages! (7 of 11)

Has it struck you how often Paul prayed for the strengthening of others? It seems we often need to be reminded to look beyond ourselves; beyond our own abilities and beyond our own strength. And to have others praying for God’s POWER to work in, for and through us ought to be a great boost to our faith and resolve to daily live for the glory of God.

Note a constant prayer of Paul for the brethren at Thessalonica:
“To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith BY HIS POWER,” (2 Thessalonians 1:11 ESV)

Above all we need to keep the Lord’s purposes in mind. It is those purposes that shall prevail. (Proverbs 19:21) However, Paul indicated here that as we develop worthy desires and goals for life, God will even EMPOWER us to work through those good purposes. As our faith prompts us to act, serve, and live as servants of God, may we continue to rely on His POWER to work in glorious ways.

Have a great day WITH A PURPOSE DRIVEN BY GOD’S POWER!
Carl

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Power Passages! (6 of 11)

We need more strength than is within ourselves. What an encouragement it ought to be to know how willing God is to supply the POWER needed to press on in life. Every aspect of God is glorious and that includes His mighty POWER He makes available to us.

Paul stated a prayer for the brethren at Colosse in these encouraging
words:
“(10) so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. (11) May you be STRENGTHENED WITH ALL POWER, ACCORDING TO HIS GLORIOUS MIGHT, for all endurance and patience with joy, (12) giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.” (Colossians 1:10-12 ESV)

God’s POWER is designed to strengthen our ability to press on, to endure patiently the trials we face, and bring us joy even in the midst of this world’s disappointments. May we continue to look to God for His mighty POWER and be thankful for that gift!

Have a great day CONNECTED TO THE POWER OF HIS GLORIOUS MIGHT!
Carl

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Power Passages! (5 of 11)

With all the activities in which we get involved it is often easy to feel overwhelmed. Sometimes we have to realize we may have bitten off more than we can chew. We may also realize the need to say no to even good things because we can begin to spread ourselves too thin. However, it is important for us to have our priorities right so that we make these decisions wisely. Nevertheless, even with the best planning there are times things come up that must be dealt with whether we feel we have the time or the strength to do so or not. It is through those times I am thankful it is not my own resources on which I have to depend.

Paul said it so well in these words:
“I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM WHO STRENGTHENS ME.” (Philippians 4:13 ESV)

No wonder Paul was able to keep on keeping on. He was connected to the proper POWER source. And he encouraged us to do the same.

“Finally, BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN THE STRENGTH OF HIS MIGHT.” (Ephesians 6:10 ESV)

May we remain connected to that sustaining POWER.

Have a great day STRENGTHENED IN THE LORD!
Carl

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Power Passages! (4 of 11)

There are physical POWERS, emotional POWERS, intellectual POWERS, etc., that God has created the capacity within us to experience. And the combination of our connection to God and our unity within the Body of Christ all serves to enhance that POWER in great ways. It’s like the illumination and strength of a fire that has logs stacked closely together. If a log is separated from the others its embers begin to die out. But if it is returned to the fire it again is able to burn brightly.

Paul stated his prayer for the Ephesian brethren in these words:
“(16) that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with POWER THROUGH HIS SPIRIT IN YOUR INNER BEING, (17) so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) MAY HAVE STRENGTH TO COMPREHEND WITH ALL THE SAINTS WHAT IS THE BREADTH AND LENGTH AND HEIGHT AND DEPTH, (19) AND TO KNOW THE LOVE OF CHRIST that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:16-19 ESV)

God EMPOWERS us by His Spirit that dwells within us. And the POWER of His vast love is to be a part of our experience within our fellowship with each other. May we allow God to EMPOWER us to love with that love and allow it to be the bond that strengthens our unity in Christ.

Have a great day FOCUSED TOWARD EMPOWERED FELLOWSHIP!
Carl

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Power Passages! (3 of 11)

God’s POWER has been displayed in many ways. We note His great POWER that went into Creation. We read of His great POWER to lead Israel from bondage, defeat their enemies, and lead them to the land He had promised. We glimpse the POWER of God through the miracles Jesus performed during His ministry on earth. And there was the great POWER exhibited in our Lord’s resurrection from the dead.

Paul made a very encouraging statement linked to that resurrection power.
“(18) having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, (19) and what is THE IMMEASURABLE GREATNESS OF HIS POWER TOWARD US WHO BELIEVE, ACCORDING TO THE WORKING OF HIS GREAT MIGHT (20) THAT HE WORKED IN CHRIST WHEN HE RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,” (Ephesians 1:18-20 ESV)

What an encouragement! That same POWER that raised Christ from the dead is a POWER that works for us who believe. No wonder Paul had stated...
“What then shall we say to these things? IF GOD IS FOR US, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US?” (Romans 8:31 ESV)

Have a great day knowing GOD’S POWER WORKS FOR US!
Carl

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Power Passages! (3 of 11)

God’s POWER has been displayed in many ways. We note His great POWER that went into Creation. We read of His great POWER to lead Israel from bondage, defeat their enemies, and lead them to the land He had promised. We glimpse the POWER of God through the miracles Jesus performed during His ministry on earth. And there was the great POWER exhibited in our Lord’s resurrection from the dead.

Paul made a very encouraging statement linked to that resurrection power.
“(18) having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, (19) and what is THE IMMEASURABLE GREATNESS OF HIS POWER TOWARD US WHO BELIEVE, ACCORDING TO THE WORKING OF HIS GREAT MIGHT (20) THAT HE WORKED IN CHRIST WHEN HE RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,” (Ephesians 1:18-20 ESV)

What an encouragement! That same POWER that raised Christ from the dead is a POWER that works for us who believe. No wonder Paul had stated...
“What then shall we say to these things? IF GOD IS FOR US, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US?” (Romans 8:31 ESV)

Have a great day knowing GOD’S POWER WORKS FOR US!
Carl

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Power Passages! (2 of 11)

What would we do without hope? Hope brings POWER to life. Hope empowers us to press on. Hope inspires us to not give up. Hope encourages us that the struggles are worth enduring because of the end result. But the hope we have is supported by Divine POWER.

Note what Paul stated in his letter to the brethren at Rome.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, SO THAT BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT YOU MAY ABOUND IN HOPE.” (Romans
15:13 ESV)

God provides His blessings in heaping helpings. By the POWER of the Holy Spirit we receive a hope that abounds.

Have a great day PRAISING GOD FOR THE POWER OF HIS ABOUNDING HOPE!
Carl

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Power Passages! (1 of 11)

We often struggle with allowing God to use us. We may wonder regarding what possible use we could be to God. We feel our limitations. We sense our inadequacies. We see our unworthiness. And to an extent we should. The reality of these things should reveal how we are to depend on God’s power rather than our own. And He is willing to provide that power.

Someone compiled a list that ought to encourage us because it is a list of men and women God worked through.

Moses stuttered. David’s armor didn’t fit. John Mark was rejected by Paul. Hosea’s wife was a prostitute. Amos’ only training was in the school of fig-tree pruning. Solomon was too rich. Abraham was too old. David was too young. Timothy had stomach problems. Peter was afraid of death. Lazarus was dead. John was self-righteous. Naomi was a widow. Paul was a murderer. So was Moses. Jonah ran from God. Miriam was a gossip. Gideon and Thomas both doubted. Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal. Elijah was burned out. Martha was a worry-wart. Mary was lazy. Samson had long hair. Noah got drunk. [list received via e-mail]

What will make the difference for us? We must retain the POWER CONNECTION!

Jesus pointed to the importance of being connected to Him.
“(4) ABIDE IN ME, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, NEITHER CAN YOU, UNLESS YOU ABIDE IN ME. (5) I am the vine; you are the branches. WHOEVER ABIDES IN ME AND I IN HIM, HE IT IS THAT BEARS MUCH FRUIT, FOR APART FROM ME YOU CAN DO NOTHING. (6) If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.”
(John 15:4-6 ESV)

Paul also pointed to the connection we need with Christ.
“(15) Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to GROW UP IN EVERY WAY INTO HIM WHO IS THE HEAD, INTO CHRIST, (16) FROM WHOM THE WHOLE BODY, JOINED AND HELD TOGETHER BY EVERY JOINT WITH WHICH IT IS EQUIPPED, when each part is working properly, MAKES THE BODY GROW SO THAT IT BUILDS ITSELF UP IN LOVE.” (Ephesians 4:15-16 ESV)

To grow and be fruitful we must be CONNECTED to the Divine POWER source. Jesus stated there is no other way.

Have a great day RETAINING YOUR POWER CONNECTION!
Carl

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Having Been Consecrated! (3 of 3)

Having been consecrated implies we are to even be willing TO SUFFER as we stand steadfast in our relationship with Christ. When we commit ourselves to Him and His Will why should it surprise us to be treated as He was treated? Those who accept Him will accept us while those who reject Him will also reject us. The more we are like Him the more this will be true.

The Hebrew writer exhorted…
“(12) So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. (13) Therefore let us GO TO HIM outside the camp AND BEAR THE REPROACH HE ENDURED.” (Hebrews 13:12-13 ESV)

Peter also encouraged…
“(12) Beloved, DO NOT BE SURPRISED at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, AS THOUGH SOMETHING STRANGE WERE HAPPENING to you. (13) But REJOICE INSOFAR AS YOU SHARE CHRIST’S SUFFERINGS, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” (1 Peter 4:12-13 ESV)

To seek to live a holy life in Christ will not always be well received in the midst of an unholy world. We should not be surprised when we find ourselves SUFFERING the same rejection and ridicule our Lord faced. Nevertheless, He suffered for us, leaving us with an example that we should continue following in His steps. (1 Peter 2:21) Such will be a mark of a people consecrated to Him. The Apostles rejoiced “that they were counted worthy TO SUFFER dishonor for the name” of Jesus. (Acts 5:41) May we also rejoice to be recognized as His!

Have a great day WILLING TO ENDURE FOR THE SAKE OF JESUS!
Carl

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Having Been Consecrated! (2 of 3)

Having been consecrated implies we are TO DO that which is consistent with the holiness we have received in Christ. What we DO is to reflect the essence of what we are.

Writing to the church at Thessalonica, Paul urged…
“(3) For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; (4) that each one of you know how to CONTROL his OWN BODY IN HOLINESS and honor, (5) not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God;” (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 ESV)

And to Timothy Paul noted…
“(21) Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, SET APART AS HOLY, useful to the master of the house, READY FOR EVERY GOOD WORK.” (2 Timothy
2:21 ESV)

Are these the descriptions of the ACTIONS of our life? Is what WE DO consistent with the holiness for which we have been set apart from the world to the glory, honor, and usefulness of God? May the ACTIONS of our daily life reflect an eagerness to fulfill the holy purposes of God.

Have a great day CARRYING OUT GOD’S HOLY AND HONORABLE AIMS!
Carl

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Having Been Consecrated! (1 of 3)

To be consecrated (sanctified or made holy) should inspire us to rejoice in thanksgiving to God Who has provided the means of being made holy in Christ. Having been sanctified by the blood of Jesus is also to dramatically impact the way we live our daily life. Is that holiness being MADE EVIDENT? Someone has said, “Consecration means to be, to do, and to suffer the will of God.” [source: list of sentence sermons]

To be, to do, and to suffer; all in accord with God’s Will. Consider the first of these three today.

Paul, beginning his letter to the church at Corinth, wrote…
“To the church of God that is in Corinth, to THOSE SANCTIFIED IN CHRIST JESUS, CALLED TO BE SAINTS together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours.” (1 Corinthians 1:2 ESV)

Having been sanctified in Christ, we have been called TO BE saints or holy ones. As this is the essence of God it is TO BE the essence of OUR BEING as well. (i.e. 1 Peter 1:15-16) Such is TO BE characteristic of our whole spirit, soul and body. (1 Thessalonians 5:23)

May we look to God for the strength to keep from having the world pull us down from the high calling we have received. Let us continually strive TO BE what He has made us TO BE!

Have a great day BEING A HOLY CHILD OF GOD!
Carl

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A Father's Influence!

On a number of occasions my wife has said to me, “You are your father’s son.” I’ll take that as a compliment. Today is the first “Father’s Day”
since my father’s death last December. I thank God for the influence my father had in my life and especially the special focuses we shared during his last months, weeks, and days.

Fulfilling his desire, I had the privilege of speaking and sharing when we gathered for the service to celebrate his life. As I shared a glimpse of my father’s life story I categorized the events of his life and his accomplishments under the headings of five things I had learned from my father. Please allow me to briefly share those main points.

1. A STRONG WORK ETHIC. If you have a job to do you stick with it and get it done and do it well. Putting in an honest day’s work (and a little extra) was what his example declared. He taught me it is important to be someone who can be depended upon. A statement Dad frequently made as he tried to encourage others to be involved was: “We all can’t do everything, but we can all do something.”

2. FAMILY IS IMPORTANT. They are to be provided for, encouraged and supported through the good and the bad. Dad showed genuine interest in the things we were involved in.

I know that while we were growing up there were times when finances were tight. However, Dad and Mom handled things in a way which never made that our concern as kids. As far as we knew we always had all we needed and more.

3. THE OUTDOORS IS A WONDERFUL PLACE TO SPEND TIME. I still have a love for tent camping because of our family vacations growing up. We walked through forests, played in the cold Pacific surf and walked the beaches, we explored some caves and caverns together, played in the snow, and hiked in the mountains and along rivers.

4. A LOVE FOR PEOPLE. Dad was a “people person”. People mattered and he was the kind of man who would help just about anyone in distress. He also seemed to be able to get along with some that others had difficulty with. His ability to connect with others bridged all age groups.

5. SPIRITUAL LIFE IS IMPORTANT. God, His Word, and the church were important to Dad. Prayer was associated with every meal.

My Dad had faith. I remember when he received the diagnosis of cancer, it was a blow out of nowhere. However, his focus quickly turned to a determination to try what could be tried, but to trust God for whatever the future held. As I sat with him during his consultation before his first chemo treatment [June 2004] and during the treatment as well, he would mention (having Psalm 90:10 in mind) that a man’s life is threescore and ten and his focus was that he had that with a bonus of 5 years.

Yes, my father was a gift from my Heavenly Father Who knows how to adequately supply what we need.

Jesus referred to earthly fathers who, regardless of character, knew how to give good gifts to their children, but went on to encourage…
“…HOW MUCH MORE WILL YOUR FATHER WHO IS IN HEAVEN GIVE GOOD THINGS to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:11b ESV)

Have a great day REMEMBERING THE FATHER OF THE GREATEST GIFTS!
Carl

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The ALL and the ONE!

What is the predominant thing we see around us? Is it “All for one and one for all!” or is it “Every man for himself!”? Perhaps we see some of both ideals. Would life not be at its best if it were “ALL for THE ONE and THE ONE for ALL!”?

God is for us. (Romans 8:31) He has provided the means of salvation for ALL who will submit to His Will. He has also preserved His Word to provide the guidance and wisdom necessary for life. Through Christ and a knowledge of Him our Heavenly Father has provided ALL that pertains to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3) for ALL who will accept it.

Paul, writing to the church at Corinth stated…
“(5) For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth -- as indeed there are many ‘gods’ and many ‘lords’ -- (6) yet for us there is ONE GOD, THE FATHER, FROM WHOM ARE ALL THINGS AND FOR WHOM WE EXIST, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” (1 Corinthians 8:6 ESV)

Some tend to idolize popular opinion and bow down to it. Other have become their own “god” in the sense they hold their own will above anything and anyone else. However, it is our Heavenly Father we are to recognize as THE ONE Who has brought ALL things into existence, and for Whom we ALL are to exist. May we continually seek to live to glorify THE ONE Who has brought us into being and is able to sustain us for an eternity.

Have a great day EXISTING FOR THE ONE WHO BROUGHT US INTO BEING!
Carl

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Forgiveness

We may struggle with getting the sins of our past out of our mind. Perhaps we even find it more difficult at times to forgive ourselves than others. Nevertheless, we should recognize the extent of God’s willingness to forgive.

The Hebrew writer encouraged (quoting from Jeremiah 31:33-34)…
“(15) And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying, (16) ‘This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts, and write them on their minds,’ (17) then he adds, ‘I WILL REMEMBER THEIR SINS AND THEIR LAWLESS DEEDS NO MORE.’ (18) WHERE THERE IS FORGIVENESS OF THESE, THERE IS NO LONGER ANY OFFERING FOR SIN.” (Hebrews 10:15-18 ESV)

Wow! Praise God for the fullness and sufficiency of the blessings we have in Christ. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, once and for all, is adequate for dealing with our sins as we remain in our relationship with Him. He does not need to be offered again and again. And the God Who is all knowing is willing to forgive us to the point of REMEMBERING THOSE SINS NO MORE! What a wonderful blessing! This should have a powerful impact on our life when we fully accept what He is willing to do!

Someone has said, “When God pardons He consigns the offense to everlasting forgetfulness. We are to forgive others as God forgives us.” [source: list of sentence sermons]

Paul exhorted…
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, AS GOD IN CHRIST FORGAVE YOU.” (Ephesians 4:32 ESV)

As we live appreciating the forgiveness we have received from God, let us be willing to extend it to others. If we are going to have FORGETFULNESS associated with our life, this is where it is to be exercised. In this way, the peace we have received from God may be experienced among one another as well.

Have a great day STRIVING TO BE LIKE HIM!
Carl

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Taking Advantage!

There are many who TAKE ADVANTAGE of situations to their own benefit. This is often done regardless of the negative impact it might have on others. The advancement of self or one’s own ideas is very much the way of the world. We are surround by so much self-centeredness today. However, it is even sadder when that becomes the way within the church.

Paul acknowledged many things he had the freedom to do, but recognized the greater need of seeking to do that which was helpful for building others up. (1 Corinthians 10:23) If there was something that might cause a weaker brother to stumble, his resolve was to forgo it. (i.e. 1 Corinthians 8:13) There were things of much greater importance to Paul than fulfilling his own personal desires or exercising the freedoms he clearly understood were his.

Note how Paul expressed this attitude to the church at Corinth.
“(33) just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, NOT SEEKING MY OWN ADVANTAGE, BUT THAT OF MANY, THAT THEY MAY BE SAVED.” (1 Corinthians 10:33 ESV)

Paul sought to do that which was MOST ADVANTAGEOUS (of the most benefit or profit) leading to the salvation of others. That was more important to Him than any personal preferences or rights he might otherwise enjoy. If there was any sense in which he TOOK ADVANTAGE of situations and others it was for whatever would draw them to God and lead them to receiving and holding onto their salvation in Christ.

When it came to the truth of God’s Will, Paul refused to compromise. However, he was very willing to set his own personal will aside when it came to the GREATER ADVANTAGE for others. May we maintain the same spirit of meekness in our interaction with others as we acknowledge the greater good we can do for the sake of their souls.

Have a great day MAKING THE MOST OF OPPORTUNITIES GOD PROVIDES!
Carl

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Sense of Obligation!

What Paul had received, he was powerfully COMPELLED TO SHARE. In his deep appreciation for the grace of God and the hope of salvation he had received, Paul felt a necessity TO SHARE the message, even saying, “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16 ESV)

To the church at Rome he stated…
“(14) I am UNDER OBLIGATION both TO GREEKS and to BARBARIANS, both to the WISE and to the FOOLISH. (15) So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.” (Romans 1:14-15 ESV)

“Under obligation.” The word translated “obligation” in this passage is from the Greek “opheiletes”, which refers to one who owes another something (especially money), thus implying being under the personal obligation of a debt.

Note also Paul’s attitude as expressed in his letter to the church at Corinth.
“For though I am free from all, I have made myself A SERVANT TO ALL, THAT I MIGHT WIN MORE OF THEM.” (1 Corinthians 9:19 ESV)

The word Paul used translated “servant” in this verse could be better rendered “slave” or “bondservant.” It was to that degree Paul was COMPELLED TO SHARE the hope of salvation with others.

It was not that Paul could ever repay the debt lifted from him by God. He referred to himself as the worst or foremost of sinners (1 Timothy 1:15-16) as he encouraged others regarding the adequacy of God’s grace to deal with sin. Paul probably felt like the debtor in Christ’s parable (Matthew 18:23-34) who had a debt forgiven that could never have been repaid. However, unlike that unmerciful servant, Paul, having accepted God’s mercy, extended the mercy he had received to others by SHARING the message of hope in Christ with all whom he was brought into contact.

Paul went on to state…
“I do it all for the sake of the gospel that I MAY SHARE WITH THEM IN ITS BLESSINGS.” (1 Corinthians 9:23 ESV)

How COMPELLED TO SHARE are we? I know I must be more diligent. How about you? May we recognize the great blessing of salvation that is ours in Christ with such a sense of appreciation that we too will be COMPELLED TO SHARE the message of the magnanimous grace of God with those around us.

Have a great day RECOGNIZING OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO REACH OTHERS!
Carl

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Self Abandonment!

It is sad when we see children who appear to have been abandoned; no one to provide them with the loving care they need. We know that healthy supporting relationships are a vital part of life. However, there are times when certain relationships must be abandoned in order to retain those which help to move the life in a proper direction. That abandonment many times begins with self.

Such was the point Jesus made when He stated
“…whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever LOSES HIS LIFE FOR MY SAKE WILL FIND IT.” (Matthew 16:25 ESV)

This statement was preceded by Jesus’ imperative regarding the DENYING OF SELF if we are going to follow Him. (Matthew 16:24) In fact the Greek translated “deny” comes from “aparneomai” which means to utterly deny or to affirm one has no connection with a person. [source: “Vine’s Expository Dict. Of N.T. Words] Therefore, to DENY SELF would imply to have no connection with self, but rather living life in its connection with Christ.

Someone has said, “He who abandons himself to God will never be abandoned by God.” [source: list of sentence sermons]

Paul, with regard to the blessing of our relationship in Christ, stated…
“But now that you have been set free from sin and HAVE BECOME SLAVES OF GOD, the FRUIT YOU GET LEADS TO SANCTIFICATION AND ITS END, ETERNAL LIFE.” (Romans 6:22 ESV)

To lose our life in Christ and for the sake of Christ is the only way to save it. To DENY SELF in order to live a life of surrender to Jesus we can be assured of receiving the loving care we need from the Heavenly Father who will not abandon us. May we abandon our self will to gain the rich blessings associated with His.

Have a great day SURRENDERED FOR LIFE!
Carl

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Read Or Read?

There are many books we may have read over the years and there may be many more that we shall read. With some books we are content to have read them once while others draw us back to read again.

A young child, having seen her mother reading from the Bible for a few minutes every morning, one day asked, “Aren’t you ever going to get finished reading that book?” The Bible is not a book to simply have read, but one to read. To come to the end of it is not to come to the end of the matter. The truths contained within must continue to be practiced and we should return again and again for the purpose of refreshing our memory, finding new encouragement, accepting that which challenges us to change for the better, and gaining insights we may have missed before. We are in serious trouble when we reach a point we feel we are done with the Bible.

The Psalmist had a great love for the Word of God. Reading through Psalm 119 we find numerous expressions regarding his devotion to keeping God’s commands, laws, precepts, etc., ever before him.

The Psalmist stated…
“Oh how I love your law! It is my MEDIATION ALL THE DAY.” (Psalm 119:97 ESV).

What God had revealed was a daily focus for the Psalmist. It brought stability to his life. The Psalmist saw God’s Word as “firmly fixed in the heavens” (Psalm 119:89) and as he recognized the sum of His Word was truth the Psalmist seemed to find comfort in the fact God’s righteous rules endured forever. (Psalm 119:160) With all the changing notions and shifting values in the world today we should find it encouraging there is ONE BOOK we can return to again and again that will provide a constant standard and ageless wisdom for daily living.

The Bible is THE BOOK to seek to wear out with use. As we continually read through the pages of Scripture, may we do so with the same desire of the Psalmist who prayed…
“OPEN MY EYES, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.” (Psalm 119:18 ESV)

With the end of this school year quickly approaching, make sure the Bible is on your Summer reading list. Make it a daily habit so that it will also be on your Fall, Winter, and Spring reading lists. Let it not be a book we have read, but THE BOOK we read and read and continue to read. Though we read through it may we never be through with it!

Have a great day CONTINUING TO BE WELL READ IN GOD’S WORD!
Carl

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Discretionary Content!

Even among those who possess great wealth is found a sense of discontentment. The more some have the more they want. However, there are also those who have developed a sense of complacency regarding their life. That may be an equally challenging problem affecting the perspective for living. Someone has noted “It is right to be content with what you have, never with what you are.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E.C. McKenzie]

A sense of contentment associated with some DISCERNMENT appears to be what Paul possessed. As he focused on living his life to the glory of God Paul understood the value of being content in some areas of his life while having a healthy sense of discontent in others. Both of these focuses are noted in his letter to the church at Philippi.

Writing to the Philippian brethren, Paul stated…
“(11) Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I HAVE LEARNED IN WHATEVER SITUATION I AM TO BE CONTENT. (12) I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.” (Philippians 4:11-12 ESV)

Though Paul had experienced times of need, he still had learned contentment. He endured many hardships during the time of his ministry. Nevertheless Paul did not see himself as a needy individual, but rather one who was greatly blessed and provided for by the Lord. In fact, that seems to be the key point of his next statement.

“I can do all things THROUGH HIM who strengthens me.” (Philippians
4:13)

It was his trust in the Lord to provide which helped Paul maintain this spirit of contentment. However, as Paul DISCERNED his life, striving to keep it all in proper balance, there was an area of his life where he refused to be content. He appears to have allowed no room for any sense of complacency to settle into his life.

Earlier in this same letter Paul noted…
“(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 had not arrived spiritually. He had proper DISCERNMENT in differentiating between being content with what he had and with regard to where he was in his spiritual life. He recognized there was still much room for growth and therefore continually pressed on to take hold of all relating to His calling in Christ.

If we lack contentment regarding WHAT WE HAVE we can very easily get sucked into “things” becoming our life pursuit, finding ourselves distracted away from what relates to our spiritual well-being. On the other hand, if we become content with WHAT WE ARE spiritually, we will soon find ourselves becoming spiritually stagnant and drifting away from the Will of God.

May we, like Paul, properly discern between these two. Let us learn contentment with regard to the blessings we have, while continuing to grow in Christian character, striving always to become more and more like our Lord Jesus Christ.

Have a great day KEEPING WHAT WE HAVE AND ARE IN PROPER PERSPECTIVE!
Carl

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Walk In Confidence! (part 2 of 2)

Do we have a faith on which we hobble or a faith that helps us stand up tall and walk on with confidence? When we consider the truth relating to Who Jesus is, do we PERSONALLY feel a sense of power to motivate us in life? Or do we still wonder about Him?

As Jesus walked the face of this earth, there was a lot of wavering and questioning regarding who He was. The people were greatly divided (John 7:43) in their opinions. There were those who thought Jesus was merely a good man while others felt He was leading the people astray. (John 7:12) Some, having observed His miracles wondered if “the Christ” would do more signs than “this man” when He appeared. (John 7:31) As Jesus’ public exposure increased He was noted by some as “the Prophet”, by others as “the Christ”, while still others just couldn’t see Him for Who He truly was because of their own interpretation of the Scriptures. (John 7:40-42)

To say Jesus was merely a good man or a great teacher would be to also admit He was one of the greatest liars that ever lived because of some of the claims He made. (i.e. John 10:30) A liar is neither a good man nor a great teacher! The truth must be recognized.

When Jesus asked His disciples who people were saying He was, they responded with the more positive views. They recalled how some thought He was John the Baptist (perhaps an idea started by Herod, who when he heard of the fame of Jesus thought John, whom he had put to death, had be raised from the dead -- Matthew 14:1-2), others Elijah, some Jeremiah, and still others simply one of the prophets. (Matthew 16:13-14) Jesus then looked to the disciples for their own PERSONAL definitive response by asking, “But who DO YOU say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15)

Note Peter’s confident assertion!
“Simon Peter replied, ‘YOU ARE THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD.’” (Matthew 16:16 ESV)

Peter did not see Jesus merely as the “son of man” (the expression Jesus had used earlier in vs.13), but as the “Son of the living God.” He was the Christ; the Anointed One! He was the Messiah! Though Peter was still growing in his faith and confidence, he had come to grips with this truth and was willing to own it in a PERSONAL way.

It matters not what other say. Many so called “experts” have given their views of the historical Jesus. Yes, Jesus has His place in history and that history cannot be ignored either by believer or skeptic. However, He must have His place in our PERSONAL life because it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. (John 14:6) May our words and life reveal our PERSONAL decisive stand on the truth that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Have a great day LIVING ASSURED THAT CHRIST IS THE ANSWER!
Carl

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Walk In Confidence! (part 1 of 2)

There are a lot of things questioned in this life and rightly so. It is good to ask questions and be sure of what we believe and build our life upon. However, there is the need to come to grips with the truth and be DECISIVE in the acceptance of it. There are choices we must make and affirmations our life must be willing to express. When the prophet Elijah was on Mt. Carmel preparing for a great contest between himself and the prophets of Baal, he asked a question that demanded a DECISIVE response.

We read…
“And Elijah came near to all the people and said, “HOW LONG WILL YOU GO LIMPING BETWEEN TWO DIFFERENT OPINIONS? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” And the people did not answer him a word.” (1 Kings 18:21 ESV)

Limping between two different opinions! Other translations have “waver” (NIV), “falter” NKJV), or “halt” (KJV); all of which implies no progress. Whether or not one believes in God and is willing to follow Him is of the highest consequence of all things. Are we limping or have we been DECISIVE in accepting the reality of God’s existence to the extent we can walk in confidence regardless of what others might do or say?

Following the great chapter of heroes of faith (Hebrews 11), the Hebrew writer exhorted…
“(12) Therefore LIFT YOUR DROOPING HANDS and STRENGTHEN YOUR WEAK KNEES, 13) and MAKE STRAIGHT PATHS FOR YOUR FEET, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.” (Hebrews 12:12-13 ESV)

God has revealed Himself, made known the truth of His Will, and has held out His precious promises to encourage us to walk on with great confidence in Him. We need to live in a way that reveals DECISIVELY we believe in God. May we allow the reality of His existence and the eternal hope He offers strengthen our hands for service to His cause and our knees to stand strong while we continue to walk in faithfulness to Him.

Have a great day EXHIBITING A FIRM FAITH IN GOD!
Carl

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Being Accountable!

As we observe others and listen to what they say, we develop various estimations of them and the same occurs toward us. When those views are known they can stand a good chance of influencing conduct and impacting self-esteem in either negative or positive ways. But how accurate is such JUDGMENT? Certainly we desire to have a good reputation among others, but just because we are well spoken of does not necessarily mean our life is right. (i.e. Luke 6:26) Neither does it mean our life is wrong when some speak against us.

Writing to the church at Corinth, Paul addressed a problem they had with regard to their view of others and even themselves. Their JUDGMENTS of one another and even of those who had taught among them were not as they should have been. In fact, their estimations of others had created divisions among them. (read 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 & 18-23)

Pointing to himself as an example, Paul wrote…
“(1) This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. (2) Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. (3) But with me it is a very SMALL THING that I should BE JUDGED BY YOU OR BY ANY HUMAN COURT. In fact, I do NOT EVEN JUDGE MYSELF. (4) I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. IT IS THE LORD WHO JUDGES ME.” (1 Corinthians 4:1-4 ESV)

Trustworthiness with regard to that which one has been entrusted is of paramount importance. Paul knew he should be held accountable as a servant of God to the church. However, he was not concerned with how others judged his life. What counted was not even a matter of how Paul viewed Paul. That JUDGMENT could be faulty as well. Note he did state that though he was not aware of anything against himself, that did not acquit him. There was the estimation or JUDGMENT of another that was of supreme significance to Paul; that of God!

Our estimation or JUDGMENT of others is often flawed because our insight is limited. We are also often not the best judge of even ourselves. It is possible to have either too high or too low an estimation of self. Like Paul, the standard by which we need to aim to live is with regard to God’s JUDGMENT. We are His servants and are ultimately accountable to Him for whether or not we have been good stewards of the charge we have received.

People observing our life are going to judge us. However, the judgment of others and even our judgment of our own selves is a small thing compared to God’s view of our life. Let our aim always be to live as His faithful servants seeking to fulfill His Purposes and Will with the hope of someday hearing His, “Well done.” (Matthew 25:21)

Have a great day LIVING TO BE ESTEEMED BY GOD!
Carl

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Key To Victory!

Many times through the Scriptures we find God used a minority to stand victoriously against a majority. (i.e. compare Judges 7:16 with 8:10) The might of men does not always make right. Majority does not always lead in a right direction. Simply following the majority is not wise as Jesus illustrated when contrasting the broad and narrow ways and their respective destinations. (Matthew 7:13-14) The key to victory is RELIANCE ON GOD!

Note the truth Hezekiah used to encourage the people in the face of conflict.
“(7) ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed before the king of Assyria and all the horde that is with him, for THERE ARE MORE WITH US THAN WITH HIM. (8) With him is an arm of flesh, but WITH US IS THE LORD OUR GOD, to help us and to fight our battles.’ And the people took confidence from the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.” (2 Chronicles 32:7-8
ESV)

The horde of Assyria was set against the few of Judah. In his pride, Sennacherib (king of Assyria) boasted of how the gods of all the other nations had been no match for him and his forces. (2 Chronicles 32:13-14) However, it was not the comparison of numbers of fighting men, but rather GOD being with His people that tipped the balance in Judah’s favor.

In a vision the prophet Zechariah received regarding the work of Zerubbabel (which took place during the days of Ezra following the return from exile), what would take place would be possible “…Not by might, nor by power, BUT BY MY SPIRIT, says the LORD of hosts.” (Zecharaiah 4:6 ESV) The times God’s people struggled most were when He was left out of the equation. Is it not the same in our own life?

Let us remember, as we continue to stand up for that which is right in the eyes of God, even when we seem to be outnumbered, placing our RELIANCE ON GOD in reality makes us to be more than our foes. Whether the feeling of being outnumbered is experienced in the classroom, in the workplace, or in society at large, remember that the “arm of flesh” is ultimately no match for the arm of the Lord. The key is not us, but rather His being with us. May we remain with Him in order to receive the strength to continue standing firm for all that is right!

Have a great day REMEMBERING NO FOE CAN OUTMATCH OUR GOD!
Carl

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The Thing To Persist In!

Do you get frustrated when you send someone an e-mail and for some reason it comes back to you with a failure notice? Have you ever sent a letter to someone only to have it return stamped “Refused. Return To Sender” ? Or have you ever left messages on someone’s answering machine, but never received a return call? Such situations can be very frustrating, especially when we have something important to say. We might even get angry that what we have to say is being ignored.

Consider God with regard to His people at various times. A couple days ago I finished reading through 2 Chronicles and was struck by a statement made in the last chapter.

We read…
“(15) The LORD, the GOD of their fathers, SENT PERSISTENTLY TO THEM BY HIS MESSENGERS, because he had compassion on his people and on his dwelling place. (16) BUT THEY KEPT MOCKING THE MESSENGERS OF GOD, DESPISING HIS WORDS and SCOFFING AT HIS PROPHETS, until the wrath of the Lord rose against his people, until there was no remedy.” (2 Chronicles 36:15-16 ESV)

God KEPT SENDING and His people KEPT REJECTING. In His compassion God PERSISTED IN SENDING His messengers, but they PERSISTED IN MOCKING AND SCOFFING at them. It angered God. There was no remedy, except to have them taken into captivity that they might once again turn their focus back toward the only One Who could rescue them.

Jesus told a parable that illustrated the various ways in which God’s messengers had been treated and how He himself would be dealt with as well. (Mark 12:1-11) Jesus even wept over Jerusalem because of the way the prophets who had been sent to her had been treated. (Matthew 23:37)

The Hebrew writer warned…
“See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, MUCH LESS WILL WE ESCAPE IF WE REJECT HIM WHO WARNS FROM HEAVEN.” (Hebrews 12:25 ESV)

May this never be something of which we would become guilty. God sent His Son. He has spoken. Let us be PERSISTENT in listening to His message.

Have a great day ACCEPTING ALL OF HIS MESSAGE!
Carl

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The LORD Is My Shepherd!

A children’s Bible class teacher decided to have her young class memorize one of the most quoted passages of Scripture; the twenty-third Psalm. She gave the youngsters a month to learn the passage. Little Bobby was excited about the task, but he just couldn’t remember the Psalm. After much practice he could barely get past the first line. On the day the children were scheduled to recite the Psalm in front of the congregation, Bobby was quite nervous. When his turn came, he stepped up to the microphone and proudly said, “THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ALL I NEED TO KNOW.”

Sometimes from the mouth of babes comes insight into the kind of faith that ought to be exhibited in our life. We may not know everything about life and what may be in store in the days ahead, but to simply recognize the Lord truly being our Shepherd should impact us immensely.

As Jesus described Himself as the Good Shepherd He stated…
“(4) When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and THE SHEEP FOLLOW HIM, FOR THEY KNOW HIS VOICE. … (14) I am the good shepherd. I KNOW MY OWN AND MY OWN KNOW ME, … (27) MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, and I know them, AND THEY FOLLOW ME.” (John 10:4, 14, & 27 ESV)

TO KNOW that Jesus is our Shepherd -- that alone ought to make all the difference in how we approach life. Wherever He leads will be a right and safe path. Let us follow on in faith. Whatever our Lord has said will bring the greatest benefits to our life. Let us listen and put His teaching into practice. TO KNOW He is our Shepherd should be a great source of comfort to us, knowing we could have no better Shepherd.

“THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ALL I NEED TO KNOW.” Certainly there are other Biblical truths we must come to know. However, to have the Lord as our Shepherd, remaining close to Him and following in His Way, we will find that the other aspects of life will come together under His loving care and guidance.

Have a great day REMAINING A SHEEP IN HIS FOLD!
Carl

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Change One Or The Other!

It was reported that Alexander the Great singled out one of his soldiers who was accused of cowardice.
"What's your name?" Alexander snapped.
"My name is Alexander, Sir." came the reply.
"Well, change your life or change your name."

When we think about our own families we know we want our family name to be honorable. We don't want people to hear our family name and immediately think, "Oh, them! Ya, I've heard about them!"

But do we give the same consideration to the impact our actions have on the family of believers -- the church? After all, as Christians, we wear the name of Christ and some people are going to base their view of Christ on how they see His family living!

Peter wrote…
“(14) If you are insulted for the NAME OF CHRIST, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. …. (16) Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him GLORIFY GOD IN THAT NAME.” (1 Peter 4:14 & 16 ESV)

If our life is not honoring Christ then maybe we should not wear that name. The choice boils down to this: either change the life or change the name!

Let our lives reflect honorably on the NAME OF CHRIST!

Have a great day BRINGING GLORY TO HIS NAME!
Carl

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Holding To Hope!

Without hope we are left with despair. Certainly we may have hopes for this life of things that may never come to be. However, the hope God offers is one that will not disappoint us. (Romans 5:5) God has provided a basis on which the assurance of hope can rest.

Note two things Paul mentioned that are to be associated with the hope we have.
“(4) For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that THROUGH ENDURANCE and THROUGH THE ENCOURAGEMENT OF THE SCRIPTURES we might HAVE HOPE. (5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, (6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 15:4-6 ESV)

We must ENDURE! If we give up, we lose. Regardless of how long we may have held on in the past, to let go now is for all of that to have been in vain. Jesus said “the one who ENDURES TO THE END will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13 ESV) The assurance of hope helps provide the encouragement needed to keep pressing on. Let us keep holding on to the end.

We must also continue to READ THE SCRIPTURES. Therein lies the encouraging messages and promises that remind us of the hope worth pressing on toward. The Scriptures reveal the unfailing faithfulness of the “God of ENDURANCE and ENCOURAGEMENT” (Romans 15:5), providing sufficient faith to instill a hope able to sustain our daily lives.

Let us continue to ENDURE whatever challenges we might face and accept the great ENCOURAGEMENT OF THE SCRIPTURES that “we might have hope” (present
active: “keep on having hope”). As we continue to be ENCOURAGED BY THAT WHICH WAS WRITTEN in the past we can be motivated to ENDURE in the present with a confident hope for an eternal future.

Have a great day INSPIRED ONWARD BY AWESOME ANTICIPATION!
Carl

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A Real Time Saver!

In this world of many modern conveniences we have developed a great appreciation for things which save us time. Meals are prepared quicker, communication is faster, travel takes less time, many daily tasks are completed in a snap, etc. Perhaps along with this appreciation for time savers grows a sense of frustration when we feel we have wasted time or something has taken us longer than we desired. However, there is one area of life that has troubled mankind for ages where it is not modern technology that saves time, but rather a little bit of FORETHOUGHT.

Someone has made the following simple observation: “One minute of keeping your mouth shut is worth an hour of explanations.” [source: sentence sermons]

Solomon advised…
“Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue KEEPS HIMSELF OUT OF TROUBLE.” (Proverbs 21:23 ESV)

Simply stopping for even A MOMENT TO THINK before we speak can save a lot of time later from being filled with regret or explanations trying to dig ourselves back out.

James exhorted…
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person BE QUICK TO HEAR, SLOW TO SPEAK, slow to anger;” (James 1:19 ESV)

A golden MOMENT OF SILENCE can save a wealth of time spent in retraction and repair. Let us give a MOMENT OF THOUGHT to the advice of Solomon and James so that we may be spared much trouble later.

Have a great day TAKING TIME TO THINK FIRST, SPEAK SECOND!
Carl

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Resisting Revenge!

When we have been wronged our first tendency is generally to react by lashing back. We may struggle with controlling the strong desire to even the score. However, in such situations, seldom does the score ever come out even.

Paul exhorted…
“Beloved, NEVER AVENGE YOURSELVES, but LEAVE IT TO the wrath of GOD, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mind, I will repay, says the Lord.’” (Romans 12:19 ESV)

Jesus provided us with the example of carrying out this principle. (note 1 Peter 2:23) Remember we have been called to be like Him by following in His steps. (1 Peter 2:21) How well are we doing in this area of our life?

Why does God encourage us away from taking vengeance? Why does His Word exhort us to leave such in His hands? I think one important reason is that we often don’t know where to draw the line. Most often when vengeance is taken on others it does not tend to be tit for tat, but rather going beyond anything that might be consider of equal measure. This frequently results in merely escalating the tensions of the situation rather than working toward any resolution.

Prior to the verse quoted above, note OUR ACTIONS Paul exhorted toward.
“(14) BLESS those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. (15) Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. (16) LIVE IN HARMONY with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be conceited. (17) Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to DO WHAT IS HONORABLE IN THE SIGHT OF ALL. (18) If possible, so far as it depends on you, LIVE PEACEABLE with all.” (Romans 12:14-18 ESV)

Instead of taking vengeance, the ACTION we are called to take is that of blessing even those who would persecute us. Instead of repaying evil with evil (fighting fire with fire) we are to act honorably. Harmony and peace, as far as we can make it possible, is to be our goal with others. Paul went on further to exhort even the feeding and giving drink to an enemy (Romans 12:20) rather than taking vengeance upon them. All this is certainly contrary to the ways of the world. It may also be contrary to the feelings experienced in such situations; feelings which must be kept under control. Nevertheless, it is the Will of God to be followed in our life.

Paul’s final exhortation in this passage was with regard to overcoming evil with good. (Romans 12:21). Do we recognize the great power there is in doing good as opposed to taking vengeance? It is not our place to seek revenge. OUR ACTIONS are to always do good. In this way we stand the chance of ultimately bringing peace in the situation. May we continually seek God’s help to maintain control as we leave such situations in His hands.

Have a great day EXERCISING THE POWER OF GOOD!
Carl

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Thank God!

Sometimes we get worn out with our schedules and all the things we are called upon to do. When this occurs perhaps we exclaim, “I need a break! I need a vacation! I just need to get away from it all!” We get weary. We get worn out. There is the need to break away for a while in order to refresh ourselves, enabling us to return ready to do a better job than we would had we continued to press on fatigued. However, do we rejoice that this is not the way it is with God?

Remember the great contest between the prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal. (1 Kings 18) Each side was to take a bull and lay it on the wood of an altar, but no fire was to be put to it. The fire was to be called for and provided by Baal for the prophets of Baal or by God for what Elijah prepared. The challenge was to see who would get a response? Having let the prophets of Baal go first -- since there were so many of them and Elijah was alone (1 Kings 18:25) -- Elijah began to mock them as they cried and cried and cried out to their god.

We read…
“And at noon Elijah mocked them, saying, ‘Cry aloud, for he is a god. Either he is musing, or he is relieving himself, or he is ON A JOURNEY, OR PERHAPS he is ASLEEP AND MUST BE AWAKENED.’” (1 Kings 18:27 ESV)

They never did get a response from Baal. However, Elijah, even after having his offering completely drenched, was responded to by God in a very dramatic and powerful way.

On vacation? Away on a trip? Asleep? Praise God that is not the reality with Him. When we bring our requests to Him in prayer we don’t have to worry about Him being off on a journey somewhere else or taking an afternoon nap. God is ALWAYS AWARE of what is going on in our lives.

The Psalmist encouragingly declared…
“(1) I lift up my eyes to the hills. FROM WHERE DOES MY HELP COME? (2) MY HELP COMES FROM THE LORD, WHO MADE HEAVEN AND EARTH. (3) He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. (4) Behold, HE who keeps Israel WILL NEITHER SLUMBER NOR SLEEP.” (Psalm 121:1-4 ESV)

And Peter, quoting from Psalm 34:15-16, stated…
“For THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE ON THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ARE OPEN TO THEIR PRAYER. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (1 Peter 3:12 ESV)

Thank God for His limitless power that enables Him to be COMPLETELY AWARE of our lives and able to strengthen and sustain. He does not need to rest up as do we. However, even when we do need a break from it all, let us not take a vacation away from Him. May we allow nothing to separate us from that abiding relationship.

Have a great day EVER AWARE OF THE AWARENESS OF GOD!
Carl

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