Untangling Assistance!

Have you ever tried to help a child whose shoelaces became knotted? Then perhaps you have also had the experience of trying to get them unknotted, but had difficulty because the child would not sit still. Anxious to get back to play -- wiggling their feet or pulling them away as they tried to see what other children were doing -- only served to knot or tangle the shoelaces more. If only they would understand that BEING STILL for just a moment would make the unknotting or untangling go much quicker and therefore allow them to return to their activities much sooner as well.

Have we learned the lesson? What do we do when we get tangled up in the problems or challenges of this life? Don’t we often twist and turn and tug and pull when perhaps what we need to do most is BE STILL and look to God for His help in untangling the mess so that we can move on in life? Like the child who sometimes gets his hands involved with ours in trying to unknot the shoes, have we often gotten our own hands in the way of God’s work of untangling some of life’s situations? God has power to unravel what we cannot. There are things we must leave to Him. Our pulling and getting our hands in the way may merely serve to lengthen the time needed to rectify the problem and allow us to get back into the activities of which God wants us to be involved.

In the Psalms we read…
“(8) Come, behold the works of the LORD, how he has brought desolations on the earth. (9) He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. (10) ‘BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!’” (Psalm 46:8-10 ESV)

The conflicts and challenges mentioned were not to be approached or viewed based upon one’s own ability, strength, or wisdom. (note also Psalm 20:6-7) The encouragement was toward a CALM AND TRUSTING FAITH in the God Who has the power (in accordance with His own wisdom and timetable) to bring order to the mess mankind often creates in this world. Sometimes in our attempts to untangle our messes they get even more tangled up.

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)

In everything we need to be turning to God, for by so doing in CALM AND TRUSTING FAITH we can find peace to guard our hearts and minds. Let us trust in the assistance He offers.

Have a great day WRAPPED UP IN THE GOD WHO CAN UNTANGLE LIFE’S KNOTS!
Carl

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Wisdom Proved Right!

Have you ever heard someone referred to as “Contrary Larry”. [Now let me quickly say, let’s not start any name calling.] They are the type of person to whom you might say, “Look at the blue sky” and they would respond, “No, it’s green.” It seems there are some people who are just never satisfied. Some people seem to continue to look for something to gripe about. The real danger of this disposition is that it can cause one to miss some good things as well as miss some vital truths of life, and in the process miss out on some of the greatest blessings! Jesus referred to some folks like that in the following way:

“(16) But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to their playmates, (17) ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.’” (Matthew 11:16-17 ESV)

Never satisfied. Never pleased. Maybe when the flute was played what they wanted was the dirge (the funeral song) and when the dirge was sung they wanted the flute. Whatever happened they wanted the opposite. They were just being contrary. Sounds kind of childish, doesn’t it! But why did Jesus bring up such an idea? Because it related to the view they had of John the Baptist and Himself. Note what Jesus went on to say:

“(18) For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘HE HAS A DEMON.’ (19) The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A GLUTTON AND A DRUNKARD, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.” (Matthew 11:18-19 ESV)

The New Living Translation ends, “…But wisdom is shown to be right by what results from it.” Because these would not accept the testimony of John the Baptist they decided he was out of his mind since he did not join in the feasting with others. Then in their unwillingness to accept Jesus they called Him a glutton and a drunkard because He did feast with others. It didn't really matter which way the action went just as long as it gave them reason to reject these two messengers of God.

However, Jesus pointed out how wisdom is shown or proved right by her actions. He was a friend to those who would accept Him and respond to the message. He touched those who needed it most. Jesus, the One who could have been a part of the most elite group there was did not choose to spend His days with the elite (though He did spend time with them too), but rather most of his time with those who were in need of the greatest compassion and mercy.

Maybe some of the leaders of that day were contrary because they had not truly grown up in their faith. When Jesus said we need to be like little children (Matthew 18:3) contrariness was not one of the characteristics He wanted us to take on. May our heart continue to be open to the proof of Jesus and the truth of His Word so that we are not contrary in response to it. Accept it as it is and accept Him as He is. If there are people around us who are contrary, bear in mind we may not be able to ever please them -- but wisdom will be proved right by her actions. Keep doing the right things the Lord desires us to do. The only thing we have to prove is that we are going to be true to His way.

Have a great day ALLOWING GOD’S WISDOM TO BE SEEN IN YOUR ACTIONS!
Carl

===================
[This focus was originally sent 07/12/1998, (Edited some and the passages have been changed to ESV)]

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Next Generation!

In the second giving of the Law, Moses encouraged the nation of Israel to keep their focus on God and His commands. The responsibility of passing God’s commands on to the next generation was also emphasized. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7) This was very important since -- as has been spoken many times -- apostasy (abandonment of or departure from the truth) is only a generation away.

What a glorious thing it must have been to receive the fulfillment of the promise of God to provide Israel with an inheritance in the promised land. Under the leadership of Joshua enemies were conquered and run out and the land was divided among the tribes of Israel. They had arrived at a point in their history where they could just SETTLE IN to the comfort of a land they could call their own and show their deep gratitude to God for His faithfulness to His promises by being faithful to Him.

Then came the death of Joshua…
“(6) When Joshua dismissed the people, the people of Israel went each to his inheritance to take possession of the land. (7) And the people served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great work that the LORD had done for Israel. (8) And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died at the age of 110 years. (9) And they buried him within the boundaries of his inheritance in Timnath-heres, in the hill country of Ephraim, north of the mountain of Gaash. (10) And all that generation also were gathered to their fathers. And THERE AROSE ANOTHER GENERATION AFTER THEM WHO DID NOT KNOW THE LORD or the work that he had done for Israel.” (Judges 2:6-10 ESV)

Here they were SETTLED IN the promised land, but within one generation, knowledge of God and the great work He had done for Israel was lost. It is important for us to recognize how quickly it can happen! Each generation must both live and teach so that the next generation has a foundation on which to build up their own faith. Teens can also play a significant role among their peers by seeking to live godly lives themselves and encouraging one another in faithfulness to the Scriptures and to God. Instead of getting too comfortable with our own spiritual growth, let us allow the urgency of encouraging the faith of others to SETTLE IN to our minds. Unless we all remain vigilant in doing this there are souls that will be lost. It is for our own sake and the sake of succeeding generations that we need to SETTLE IN to upholding the truth, working to instill it into the lives of others.

Have a great day ACCEPTING OUR PART IN THE FUTURE OF OTHERS!
Carl

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Good For...!

Some people have been referred to as “Good for nothing!” I’ve even heard it expressed how some become so heavenly minded they are of no earthly good. It is true our minds need to be set on heavenly things (Colossians 3:1-2), but our hands and lives are to be involved in good works while we are here. Our aim needs to be above more than simply living good moral lives. We are not simply to be good, but are to be GOOD FOR SOMETHING; especially being of GOOD USE to God for the things He has in mind for us to carry out while we journey in this earthly realm.

In Paul’s second letter to Timothy he exhorted…
“(20) Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. (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 2:20-21 ESV)

Are we allowing our lives to become a “vessel for HONORABLE USE” in the service of God? God has provided the Scriptures to help equip us for “every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) As we learn His Will more fully are we becoming more and more USEFUL TO HIM as the Master of our life and destiny? Since God obviously valued us enough to send the Son to provide the means of our eternal salvation, let us remain eager and ready for Him to put our lives to GOOD USE for as long as we are here.

Have a great day DOING GOOD FOR GOD’S SAKE AND GLORY!
Carl

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It's About Me!

“It’s About Me!” Perhaps that title appears extremely selfish and is seen to well describe the focus of many people in our “Me! Me! Me!” society today. It is true we each have personal needs that must be met. We also all have personal stuff for which we must take responsibility. There are things in our life that we should not expect others to do for us. “Me” must be mindful of those things and step forward to the task. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY is one of those things good to have begun learning early in life. However, our PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY does not stop with ourselves. Since we have been the recipients of many good things the expectation is for us to be willing to also be a giver in accordance with our ability (2 Corinthians 8:12) to give. What is “Me” willing to do? How does “Me” come to grips with PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY when face to face with the help others need?

Someone has said, “Responsibility walks hand in hand with capacity and power.” [source: “sentence sermons”] In other words, we are not responsible for doing what we either do not have the ability or the resources to fulfill. That sounds fair enough. However, how do we respond when we do have the ability and resources to assist others?

Solomon stated…
“(27) Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, WHEN IT IS IN YOUR POWER TO DO IT. (28) Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it’ -- WHEN YOU HAVE IT WITH YOU.” (Proverbs 3:27-28) [English Standard Version, © 2001, Wheaton: Good News Publishers]

The New Living Translation reads…
“(27) Do not withhold good from those who deserve it WHEN IT’S IN YOUR POWER TO HELP THEM. (28) If you CAN HELP your neighbor now, DON’T SAY, ‘Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.’” (Proverbs 3:27-28) [NLT, © 1997, Weaton, Ill.: Tyndale House]

The “Message” translation reads…
“NEVER WALK AWAY FROM SOMEONE WHO DESERVES HELP; your hand is God’s hand for that person. Don’t tell your neighbor, ‘Maybe some other time,’ or, ‘Try me tomorrow,’ WHEN THE MONEY’S RIGHT THERE IN YOUR POCKET.” (Proverbs 3:27-28) [Peterson, E.H. © 2003, “The Message”: The Bible in contemporary language. Colorado Springs, Colo.: NavPress]

Is it clear what Solomon noted regarding PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY? Certainly there is a difference between meeting needs and merely enabling others to shirk their own responsibility. (i.e. 2 Thessalonians 3:10) Whether it be financial help, a little of our time, a helping hand, or whatever the need might be that we have been equipped to help, let us do so willingly and cheerfully. God has not withheld good from us. May His gracious spirit be evident in our service to others.

Have a great day ALLOWING GOD TO LET YOU BE HIS HAND TO OTHERS!
Carl

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Getting The Message Across!

There may be many varying motives behind the sharing of God’s Word. Some pure, some impure, and some of which we may never become aware. As Paul was in prison, he was encouraged that there were others continuing to proclaim the message of Jesus. However, some of those appear to have been seeking to draw a following to themselves in the process and perhaps away from Paul.

Note where Paul’s focus rested in light of this.
“(15) Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. (16) The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. (17) The former proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. (18) What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, CHRIST IS PROCLAIMED, AND IN THAT I REJOICE.” (Philippians 1:15-18 ESV)

Since this happened during the first century of the church, why should we be surprised at it happening today? Hopefully every glimpse of truth -- regardless of the motive behind the sharing -- causes others to seek further truth even more diligently. Paul rejoiced that Christ was being preached because he knew the focus needed to be on Christ rather than on himself. Even so, Paul was not content with merely preaching the truth, he also recognized the need to live it. That CONSISTENCY provided powerful validity to the genuineness of the life changing message he taught.

As we acknowledge the truth of the Scriptures, to help others recognize the authority of God’s Word is good. Helping others begin to develop their faith based upon what is contained in the Bible rather than merely on statements we or others have made is a noble thing. (Acts 17:11) However, how can we expect people to accept something the Scriptures say if they don’t see us doing it ourselves? Even if we point others to specific passages to read, how can we expect to convince them it is what they ought to do if they don’t see us taking it seriously? Such was a charge Paul made to Jewish converts in Rome. They apparently viewed themselves as possessing knowledge and thus qualified to be guides, instructors, and teachers. (Romans 2:17-20) However, they were falling short of the CONSISTENCY that should have marked their life.

Paul wrote…
“(21) YOU THEN WHO TEACH OTHERS, DO YOU NOT TEACH YOURSELF? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? (22) You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples?” (Romans 2:21-22 ESV)

What was lacking was a CONSISTENCY between what they knew, taught, and how they lived, and because of that Paul would say (quoting from the latter part of Isaiah 52:5), “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” (Romans 2:24 ESV) People will be watching to see how honest we are and how much we truly believe what we claim to believe. How can we possibly convince others they need to not only maintain a right relationship with Christ, but also one with His Body, the church (i.e. Hebrews 10:25; 1 John 1:7) if they don’t see us having one? Or how can we convince others regarding the authority of Scripture if we appear to pick and choose which parts we want to apply to our life?

We may know the Scriptures, but are we living them as well? As we share with others are we also teaching ourselves? Do the daily actions of our life reveal we have accepted and surrendered to the authority of God’s Word? Living life that reveals how much what God has stated means to us can help others realize how much it needs to mean to them. May we strive for a CONSISTENCY that helps the genuineness of our faith to be clearly evident.

Have a great day TALKING AND WALKING THE SAME PATH!
Carl

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Want Or Need! (part 2 of 2)

God sent his prophets, but there were times the people had in mind the kind of preacher/teacher to whom they wanted to listen. Time may have passed, but the tendency has not changed. That is why Paul urged Timothy…

“(1) I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: (2) preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. (3) For THE TIME IS COMING WHEN PEOPLE WILL NOT ENDURE SOUND TEACHING, but HAVING ITCHING EARS THEY WILL ACCUMULATE FOR THEMSELVES TEACHERS TO SUIT THEIR OWN PASSIONS, (4) and will TURN AWAY FROM LISTENING TO THE TRUTH and wander off into myths.” (2 Timothy 4:1-4 ESV)

We need to be willing to listen to and accept the TRUTH. It is what we need to hear no matter how uncomfortable it might make us. Rather than listening to “wind and lies” as we noted yesterday (Micah 2:11) and finding ourselves tossed about in the instability of every wave, “wind of doctrine” (Ephesians 4:14), and human ideology, we need to hear the TRUTH!

I have a great appreciation for youth leaders who know how to have fun with the teens entrusted to their care while at the same time are dead serious about getting teens to focus on the TRUTH of God and the need to live it in their life. Hopefully you are connected with youth leaders, preachers, teachers, and even parents in your life who are prepared and willing to share the TRUTH in a forthright and yet encouraging manner.

Paul urged…
“Rather, SPEAKING THE TRUTH IN LOVE, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ,” (Ephesians 4:15 ESV)

Sharing the TRUTH is the loving thing to do. I pray we are each having the opportunity to hear it spoken in love and share a desire to speak it in that manner as well. Certainly we have a responsibility to make sure it is the message of God. (note Acts 17:11) As we recognized the TRUTH we must be willing to surrender to it. We need the TRUTH. Sometimes we may not fully realize how much we need it until we hear it. Our eternal destiny depends upon it. Even when it hurts we can rejoice, being thankful it was proclaimed.

As the open hand and open mouth receive things necessary for physical life, the open heart receives what is needed for spiritual growth. Failure on the part of Israel to accept the TRUTH meant captivity. For us to accept the TRUTH means being set free. (John 8:31-32) May the openness to the needed TRUTH of God’s message be retained.

Have a great day OPEN TO TRUTH MEETING OUR GREATEST NEED!
Carl

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Want Or Need! (part 1 of 2)

We all have wants and we all have needs. It is fine to satisfy some (but not all) of our wants, but there are times when wants need to be set aside in order to receive what we need. This is no more true than when it comes to hearing the TRUTH. Sometimes TRUTH hurts, but just like the pain of the needle that shoots a necessary antibiotic into the body to fight off sickness and disease, even more important is the taking in of TRUTH that will ward off the sickness of the soul that could cause spiritual death and eternal separation from God.

Note something God told His prophet Isaiah to write down as a witness to His people.
“(8) And now, go, write it before them on a tablet and inscribe it in a book, that it may be for the time to come as a witness forever. (9) For they are a rebellious people, lying children, children UNWILLING TO HEAR the instruction of the Lord; (10) who say to the seers, ‘Do not see,’ and to the prophets, ‘DO NOT PROPHESY TO US WHAT IS RIGHT; SPEAK TO US SMOOTH THINGS, prophesy illusions, (11) leave the way, turn aside from the path, LET US HEAR NO MORE ABOUT THE HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL.’” (Isaiah 30:8-11 ESV)

What a sad state for the people of God; unwilling to listen to what they needed to hear! They were telling the prophets what they wanted and it appears these prophets delivered it. There were warnings they needed to heed! However, instead of listening to the message God gave Isaiah to deliver, they listened to those who preached a more pleasing message, thus rejecting the TRUTH that could have spared them the conflict with Assyria and other captivity to come.

Note the preacher the people desired during the time of Micah.
“(6) ‘Do not preach’ -- thus they preach -- ‘one should not preach of such things; disgrace will not overtake us.’ … (11) If a man should go about and utter wind and lies, saying, ‘I will preach to you of wine and strong drink,’ HE WOULD BE THE PREACHER FOR THIS PEOPLE!” (Micah 2: 6 & 11)

A preacher (or prophet) who would fill them with what they wanted. “Ya, that’s what we want! That’s the preacher for us?” Is it? What kind of teachers do we desire? To what kind of preachers do we want to listen? If we could pick our preacher, what would he preach? Do we want one who will let us write the sermons? Smorgasbord religion -- that which would let us pick and choose what will satisfy our taste -- how much benefit do we think we could possibly receive from such?

I fear there will always be those who will only go where they hear what they want and there will always be preachers who will supply what meets that desire. We need to guard against becoming intoxicated by the smooth talk of those who would preach only what we want to hear rather than what we need. It is to our advantage to face the discomfort and accept the TRUTH we need to hear.

Have a great day FINDING GAIN IN THE PAIN OF NEEDED LESSONS!
Carl

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Looking Ahead!

When I am the driver, sitting in the front seat of my car, I need to keep a focus ahead of me so that I can arrive at my destination safely. There is also the need to be aware of what is going on around me. On a multilane highway there can be cars alongside me. Awareness of what is going on behind me is also good. The design of the car enables me to look ahead with a view of both where I am going and where I have been. Through the windshield I see what lies ahead and with the use of a rearview mirror I can see what is behind. However, the windshield is large and the rearview mirror is small. Might that tell me something with regard to where the MOST FOCUS time ought to be? It is with good reason the rearview mirror is not large (though that might make combing the hair and putting on makeup easier -- and I have seen that happening as people are driving down the road) with the windshield being small. Too much gazing into the rearview mirror has been the cause of many accidents. Things can happen very quickly in front of us. Being distracted for just a brief moment is enough to create the possibility of a collision. The front windshield has been designed high and wide in order to provide a clear view of everything directly in front of the vehicle and further up the road as well.

There were some things in Paul’s past that perhaps haunted him at times. His letters make it very clear he accepted the forgiveness made possible by the blood of Christ and the grace of God, but that past was a part of the road he had traveled. (i.e. 1 Corinthians 15:9; 1 Timothy 1:13) Where did he FOCUS HIS ATTENTION THE MOST?

Writing to the church at Philippi, Paul humbly but unequivocally 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)

Some people just can’t get themselves to look ahead because they keep living the past over and over again in their minds. Such a view can cause one to stop moving forward. Remember, the rearview mirror is small, but the windshield is large. Paul kept looking ahead to the BIGGER things God had in mind for him and those he taught. Though he was convicted by the sin of his past, Paul pressed on in the assurance of being what he was by the grace of God. (1 Corinthians 15:10) Because Christ had become his life, Paul had a WIDE VIEW OF A GRAND FUTURE and pressed on toward the goal of the upward call. May we also keep our MAIN VIEW FOCUSED ahead of us that our forward motion in Christ may not be hindered.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A FORWARD FOCUS FOR LIFE!
Carl

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Written Where?

Writing instruments and writing materials vary with purpose. Sometimes things get written that should not be written or become scrawled across places where writing should not be. Graffiti defaces bridges, fences, walls, sidewalks, and other public surfaces. For one reason or another people have decided to leave their MARK. However, the MARK of life choices also becomes engraved in lives. How are we MARKED and how lasting is the MARK connected with our identity?

Note what was stated of Judah at the time of Jeremiah.
“The sin of Judah is WRITTEN WITH A PEN OF IRON; WITH A POINT OF DIAMOND IT IS ENGRAVED ON THE TABLET OF THEIR HEART, and on the horns of their altars,” (Jeremiah 17:1 ESV)

Sin had become such a part of the life of the people of Judah that it had become engraved deeply and lastingly upon their heart. How sad for such ungodliness to be identified with their lives. Because of their lack of faithfulness to God they were destined to lose their possessions and be removed from their land. (Jeremiah 17:3-4)

Later on in this same chapter we read…
“O Lord, the hope of Israel, all who forsake you shall be put to shame; THOSE WHO TURN AWAY FROM YOU SHALL BE WRITTEN IN THE EARTH, for they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living water.” (Jeremiah 17:13 ESV)

Because God’s people had forsaken Him, it was death rather than life that was in store for them. Their MARK would be like that written in the earth. Some translations refer to it as being written in the dust. That would imply no sense of permanence; written in that which is only of a temporary nature.

What kind of MARK are we seeking to be established by our life? The character that MARKS our heart will be a determining factor in what that will be. Will it be a MARK merely of death or one of life? Will it be a mark in the dust (the earth) or something more permanent (heavenly)?

Remember what Jesus encouraged the disciples to rejoice over.
“Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but REJOICE THAT YOUR NAMES ARE WRITTEN IN HEAVEN.” (Luke 10:20 ESV)

Earth is merely a temporary place. It is Heaven of which eternity is linked. We need to continue living in a right relationship with our Lord so that our name will be written in the Lamb’s book of life. (Revelation 3:5; 13:8; 21:27 ESV) Therefore, let us strive for the Lord’s Will to be engraved on the tablet of our heart so that in living for Him we will be drawn by Him into the eternal rest He Wills to provide.

Have a great day ASSURED OF BEING IN THE LAMB’S BOOK!
Carl

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Pay Attention To HIM!

In the classic movie of “The Wizard Of Oz”, when Dorothy, the Scarecrow, The Lion, and the Tin Man returned to Oz to have their wishes granted by the “Great and Powerful Oz”, they met with disappointment at his refusal to follow through on his promise. Dorothy even stated, “If you were really great and powerful, you’d keep your promise.” As his voice continued to boom accompanied by puffs of smoke and flashes of light, Toto (Dorothy’s dog) began to tug at a curtain, ultimately exposing the man BEHIND THE CURTAIN. As he was stating, “The Great Oz has spoken!” he realized he was being exposed. Pulling the curtain back to hide himself he boomed out, “Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain. The Great Oz has spoken!” The truth was that the Wizard Of Oz was only a man with no power in himself to fulfill the wishes or needs of Dorothy and her three friends.

We have a need that man is unable to fulfill. However, there is one Who has gone BEHIND THE CURTAIN to grant an eternal assurance and He is truly “Great and Powerful” and trustworthy enough to keep His promises. Unlike the High Priests who went BEHIND THE CURTAIN (or veil) that separated the Holy and Most Holy Places once a year (Hebrews 9:2-7) and then came out, Jesus went behind to remain on our behalf. When He died on the cross, that literal curtain was torn. (Matthew 27:51) Then, when He ascended into Heaven, it is there He has continued to mediate on our behalf. (Hebrews 4:14; 1 Timothy 2:5; Romans 8:34)

Regarding our hope of salvation that God set into motion, the Hebrew writer encouraged…

“(19) We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place BEHIND THE CURTAIN, (20) WHERE JESUS HAS GONE as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6:19-20 ESV)
We have a steadfast hope anchored in the truly great and powerful One who has gone BEHIND THE CURTAIN. Having made provision for our eternal salvation, Jesus has gone ahead of us with the desire to ultimately bring us into His presence in the Most Holy Place above.

In contrast between the old and the new, the Hebrew writer encouraged…

“(23) The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, (24) but HE HOLDS HIS PRIESTHOOD PERMANENTLY, because he continues forever. (25) Consequently, HE IS ABLE TO SAVE TO THE UTTERMOST those who draw near to God through him, SINCE HE ALWAYS LIVES TO MAKE INTERCESSION FOR THEM.” (Hebrews 7:23-25 ESV)

Because of Jesus we can have great confidence with regard to what is in store for those who are His. He will not disappoint us.

The Hebrew writer went on to state…
“(19) Therefore, brothers, since we have CONFIDENCE TO ENTER THE HOLY PLACES BY THE BLOOD OF JESUS, (20) by the new and living way that HE OPENED FOR US THROUGH THE CURTAIN, THAT IS, THROUGH HIS FLESH, (21) and since we have a great priest over the house of God, (22) let us draw near with a true heart in FULL ASSURANCE OF FAITH, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. (23) Let us hold fast the confession of our HOPE WITHOUT WAVERING, for HE WHO PROMISED IS FAITHFUL.” (Hebrews 10:19-23 ESV)

Let us therefore pay attention to this One Who has gone BEHIND THE CURTAIN. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is presently making intercession for us, and desires to ultimately bring us into that eternal Heavenly Home. Because He truly is all “Great and Powerful” we can be assured of Him following through on His promises.

Have a great day ASSURED BY THE ONE WHO HAS OPENED THE WAY!
Carl

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Cause And Effect!

Paul admonished…
“(7) DO NOT BE DECEIVED: God is not mocked, for WHATEVER ONE SOWS, THAT WILL HE ALSO REAP. (8) For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.” (Galatians 6:7-8 ESV)

As this principle of sowing and reaping is true in a horticultural sense, Paul made it abundantly clear that it is just as true spiritually. We are surrounded in life by examples of “cause and effect” even though there are many who do not want to accept personal responsibility for their situation in life. It is true that some things just happen. However, we need to be honest with regard to those things that happen because of the choices we have made. We cannot acknowledge God and then live anyway we like and expect God’s blessing to continue with us.

As Isaiah spoke to Israel for God he exhorted…
“(15) For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘IN RETURNING AND REST YOU SHALL BE SAVED; IN QUIETNESS AND IN TRUST SHALL BE YOUR STRENGTH.’ But you were unwilling, (16) and you said, ‘No! We will flee upon horses’; therefore you shall flee away; and, ‘We will ride upon swift steeds’; therefore your pursuers shall be swift.” (Isaiah 30:15-16 ESV)

Even though God had offered His promises to Israel, they were a rebellious people. They rejected God and focused on their own efforts. If only they would have kept their focus on returning and resting with a quiet trust in God. However, because of their unwillingness they would find themselves fleeing even from the smallest threat. (Isaiah 30:17) They were reaping in accordance to what they had sown.

Remember when Jesus was rejected, He cried over the city of Jerusalem saying, “Would that you, even you, HAD KNOWN on this day THE THINGS THAT MAKE FOR PEACE! But now they are hidden from your eyes.” (Luke 19:42 ESV) Then He spoke of Jerusalem’s destruction. If only they had recognized and properly responded to His teaching.

A couple chapters further in Isaiah we find another glimmer of hope.
“(17) And the EFFECT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS WILL BE PEACE, and THE RESULT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, QUIETNESS AND TRUST FOREVER.” (Isaiah 32:17 ESV)

The effect of RIGHTEOUSNESS would be peace, quietness and trust (“assurance”, NKJV) forever. Cause and effect. It is the sowing of RIGHTEOUSNESS (that which is right in accordance with God’s Will) that we are to be sowing. True to the principle of sowing and reaping, we will then be able to look to God for a harvest of RIGHTEOUSNESS. (2 Corinthians 9:10)

If we are in need of returning to God in a spirit of repentance we can again find the assurance of salvation and strength. With His help we can begin uprooting what should not have been sown in our life so that a RIGHTEOUS harvest can be possible. On our own we will find no such hope. May we remain steadfast in a trusting relationship with God as we continually seek His Will to more fully become ours.

Have a great day LIVING FOR A HARVEST THAT CAN PLEASE BOTH GOD AND US!
Carl

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Save Or Savor?

People seem to always be looking for ways to “save” TIME. It is possible with the many conveniences of today to do things in “less” TIME. Doing some things quicker can then leave “more” TIME to do other things. There are also many things for which we must “make” TIME. However, the reality is that TIME cannot be “saved.”

Unlike money that can wisely be saved for needs that may arise in the future, TIME cannot be stored up or hoarded away. It cannot be locked away in a vault for protection, boxed up, or bottled in reserve. Though we may talk about setting aside TIME, it cannot be literally set off to the side and kept for use at some later date. TIME is like being in a stream with its waters continuing to flow and we can only move with the current. We may wisely plan how we will use TIME, but we must always bear in mind that TIME can only be used and savored (delighted in the use of) as it comes.

Paul encouraged the church at Colossae…
“Conduct yourselves WISELY toward outsiders, MAKING THE BEST USE OF THE TIME.” (Colossians 4:5 ESV)

And to the church at Ephesus he exhorted…
“(15) Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but AS WISE, (16) MAKING THE BEST USE OF THE TIME, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16 ESV)

Going with the flow as TIME streams on we need to wisely be mindful of using the opportunities as we come upon them. There may be no better TIME. It may be the only TIME. And it will be most certainly TIME that cannot be recaptured. The only way to relive it is in memory of what has been. Savoring and using TIME wisely at this moment will keep those memories worth reliving without regret and will also serve to prepare us for TIME that is yet to come. Living to glorify God and exemplify the name of Christ is most definitely wise use of the TIME. May we delight to use the TIME God gives us for the greatest good to His glory and praise because the days in which we live are in need of such wise use.

Have a great day SAVORING LIFE LIVED FOR THE SAVIOR!
Carl

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To Say The Least!

A lot of talk and a lot of focus when not kept properly centered can ultimately lead us (and others we might be reaching out to) far away from where we ought to be. As Paul wrote to admonish and exhort the church at Corinth, he attempted to steer their focus away from men. That focus on men and on themselves got in the way of the message of Christ, their unity, and the way in which they exercised their spiritual gifts. In the early part of Paul’s first letter he reminded them of how he first shared the message of Christ with them.

We read…
“(1) And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. (2) For I DECIDED TO KNOW NOTHING AMONG YOU EXCEPT JESUS CHRIST AND HIM CRUCIFIED. (3) And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, (4) and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, (5) THAT YOUR FAITH MIGHT NOT REST IN THE WISDOM OF MEN BUT IN THE POWER OF GOD.” (1 Corinthians 2:1-5 ESV)

Are we able to see what Paul most wanted to be focused upon? Someone has said, “Those witness best for Christ who say least about themselves.” [source: “sentence sermons”] Paul’s description of himself among the Corinthians did not sound very impressive. It wasn’t Paul he wanted the Corinthians drawn to, but rather Christ! It was Christ Who was crucified for the salvation of mankind, not Paul. (1 Corinthians 1:13) And the message did not depend upon Paul’s smoothness of speech, but the power of the truth itself. It was least of all about Paul and MORE ABOUT CHRIST! The least attention Paul drew to himself meant the MORE ATTENTION DRAWN TO THE LORD. This was a mark of Paul’s humble ministry as a servant of Christ.

Paul would later write…
“For what WE PROCLAIM IS NOT OURSELVES, BUT JESUS CHRIST as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.” (2 Corinthians 4:5 ESV)

As we reach out to others are we telling too much of our story and not enough of our Lord’s? Helping others know how much Jesus has changed our life is good. However, it is Jesus Christ and the salvation found only in Him (Acts 4:12) that we need to continue to tell the most! May we humbly accept our role as Christ’s servants who have been called to tell His glorious story. The hope of the world depends upon it!

Have a great day LOVING TO TELL HIS STORY!
Carl

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What Way Do We Love?

During the time of Jeremiah the focus was such that it’s impact was referred to as being an “appalling and horrible thing.” (Jeremiah 5:30 ESV) What was happening among the people and why would they wonder (Jeremiah 5:19) at the lack of blessing and protection of God?

God declared through Jeremiah…
“the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule at their direction; MY PEOPLE LOVE TO HAVE IT SO, but what will you do when the end comes?” (Jeremiah 5:31 ESV)

The prophets who should have been God’s messengers were proclaiming their OWN MESSAGE and rather than the priests serving under the direction of God, they followed their OWN RULE or authority. Bad leadership only serves to lead others astray. However, the people were not innocent in this because things were the way they loved for it to be! Such apparently served their OWN INTERESTS as the focus rested on what people wanted rather than the Will of God. This approach to life may have made them happy then, but where would it leave them in the end?

Even Paul warned of a time when people would surround themselves with teachers who would teach what they wanted to hear. (2 Timothy 4:3) We place ourselves in a dangerous position when we refuse to listen to what we need and open our ears only to what we want to hear. When we want to feel good more than be right how can be expect the blessing of God?

What is central to OUR FOCUS? What is central to OUR DESIRES? What is the way of OUR AFFECTIONS? What way do we love? Jesus is the Way. (John 14:6) Do we love Him? If the answer is “yes” (and I pray it is) then let us seek to follow in His Way. Rather than following in the way we would have it, let us follow in the way God would have it. Therein we will find His blessing and be prepared for when the end comes.

Have a great day FEELING GOOD ABOUT FOLLOWING RIGHT!
Carl

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Noise Or A Message?

It is interesting how a sound can be perceived differently by various individuals. (i.e. John 12:27-30) For some it may be noise while for others it is a learning experience. How aware we are to what is going on around us can have a dynamic effect upon whether or not or how we respond.

Do we sometimes find ourselves getting lost amidst all the noise of this world? In the midst of all that noise could there be a MESSAGE we are missing? Have we heard so many words that that’s all they have become to us -- just more words? Has the continual clatter of ideas dulled our senses to keep us from accepting the true MESSAGE being heralded amidst the noise?

I came across the following story in a church bulletin.

===============
“Back when the telegraph was the fastest means of long-distance communication, there was a story, about a young man who applied for a job as a Morse code operator. Answering an add in the newspaper, he arrived in a large, noisy office. In the background a telegraph clacked away. A sign on the receptionist’s counter instructed job applicants to fill out a form and wait until they were summoned to enter the inner office.

“The young man completed his form and sat down with seven other waiting applicants. After a few minutes, the young man stood up, crossed the room to the door of the inner office, and walked right in. Naturally the other applicants perked up, wondering what was going on. Why had this man been so bold? They muttered among themselves that they hadn’t heard any summons yet. They took more than a little satisfaction in assuming the young man would be reprimanded for his presumption and thus disqualified for the job. Within a few minutes the young man came out escorted by an interviewer, who announced to the other applicants, “Gentlemen, thank you very much for coming, but the job has been filled by this young man.” The other applicants began grumbling to each other, and then one spoke up, “Wait a minute -- I don’t understand. He was the last one to come in, and we never even got a chance to be interviewed. Yet he got the job. That’s not fair.”

The employer responded, “All the time you’ve been sitting here, the telegraph has been ticking out the following message in Morse code: ‘If you understand this message, then come right in. The job is yours.’ HE RESPONDED, so the job is his.”
===============

Jesus said,
“He who has ears to hear, LET HIM HEAR.” (Matthew 11:15 ESV)

After Jesus told the parable of the sower he made the statement again:
“He who has ears, LET HIM HEAR.” (Matthew 13:9 ESV)

Jesus said it again in Matthew 13:43.

The young man in the story above was blessed because he heard and understood. It will be the same for us.

Jesus encouraged the disciples:
“But BLESSED ARE your eyes, for they see, and YOUR EARS, FOR THEY HEAR.” (Matthew 13:16 ESV)

May we keep our ears open. Don’t let the world’s clatter drown out the MESSAGE God is holding out for us. We will be blessed to hear and respond appropriately.

Have a great day LISTENING FOR GOD’S MESSAGE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 5/26/2001, (Edited some and the passages have been changed to ESV)]

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Free?

Sometimes when something is offered free -- especially if it is really good -- we become suspicious of the offer. Some things may rightfully appear too good to be true! Perhaps we wonder what the catch is. Sometimes there are strings attached. I’ve sat through some lengthy presentations for a “free” gift. Sometimes it was worth the time and other times it was not. I’ve heard people say there is no such thing as a free meal. Perhaps this is stated when someone sees the free meal being offered as a means to hook them into something else. If this is not the case, the statement is at least true in the sense the meal had to COST SOMEONE SOMETHING.

It has been said, “There is always free cheese in a mousetrap.” [source: calendar quote] That suggests there is cause for caution regarding that which may appear free. Peter even referred to false teachers who promised freedom, but were themselves “slaves of corruption.” (2 Peter 2:19) There are still some today who preach freedom and gain a following (and even control over the lives of these followers), but not with a proper connection to life in Christ.

Paul pointed out…
“(22) 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. (23) For the wages of sin is death, but the FREE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD.” (Romans 6:22-23 ESV)

Though it is a given that there are works for us as Christians to be involved in (Ephesians 2:8-10) it is still not possible to earn our salvation. It is truly a free gift of God. However, it is only found IN CHRIST WHO PAID THE PRICE (1 Peter 1:18-19) to make it possible.

We don’t have to be suspicious of what God offers. There is no deception. Neither is God involved in the game of “bait and switch.” He always has our best in mind. However, as we accept His gifts IN CHRIST, let us recognize their value due to what OUR LORD INVESTED in order to provide them. Then let us live in such a way that demonstrates a genuine appreciation for the salvation that is ours IN HIM!

Have a great day KNOWING GOD’S GIFTS ARE BOTH GOOD AND TRUE!
Carl

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Deposits And Withdrawals!

Someone has said, “Family units are like banks. If you take out more than you put in they go broke.” [source: calendar quote] A right BALANCE is necessary for healthy family life and good solid families are filled with activities of giving and receiving. Regular deposits (input) provide something from which to draw individually and collectively. We need to learn to give, but in order for others to have their opportunity we also need to learn to graciously receive. As this is true within our own immediate families, it is also true within the family of God. We must all be conscious of fulfilling our role to the best of our abilities. Sometimes we give and sometimes we receive, but to be on one side or the other all the time is not healthy for our individual lives or for the family of God as a whole. Through the recognition of how much we need each other we must find the healthy BALANCE between giving and receiving.

Looking at the ministry of Paul it does not take long to see how much he was willing to give. To the church at Corinth he stated his willingness to “gladly spend and be spent” for their souls. (2 Corinthians 12:15) However, Paul also experienced being on the receiving end. He was greatly encouraged in his ministry by the church at Philippi as they had partnered with him in both “giving and receiving.” (Philippians 4:15)

Writing to the church at Ephesus, Paul exhorted…
“(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)

The word used by Paul for “working” is the Greek “energeia”. Each part of the family of God functioning properly helps to power and energize the body. Are we mindful of the energy we contribute to the Body of Christ? Are we thankful for the energy others bring to us? To always be on the “receiving” side takes away energy, but to always be on giving side can cause us to burn out. May we find the right BALANCE in our “one another” life together as we learn to generously give and graciously receive.

Have a great day MAINTAINING HEALTHY CHRISTIAN TRANSACTIONS!
Carl

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God's Garden!

[10/13/2006 “teEn-MAIL”]

GOD’S GARDEN!

In the beginning, God created every living creature and plant and it was all good. He even created a beautiful garden (Genesis 2:8) wherein Adam and Eve lived until sin caused them to be driven out. (Genesis 3:23) God later revealed His plan -- first stated in a promise to Abraham (Genesis 17:8) and later to Moses (Exodus 3:8) -- of a land for His people which He described as a land “flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:8), a description of a land of bounty. However, after this place became Israel’s home, sin once again brought about being taken out of the land.

Though God had Isaiah prophecy regarding destruction in Jerusalem and captivity because of sinfulness, there was still a message of hope regarding the preservation of a remnant and a glorious future. Even in the midst of the warnings God continually held out the opportunity for repentance and return to Him. His desire was (and is) to bless, not punish and to preserve, not destroy. We too must continually be mindful of our own need of faithfulness to God and His Will. As God’s people, we are to recognize what He desires the world to see being PRODUCED in our lives individually and collectively.

Note the following picture from Isaiah as he prophesied of better times.
“For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, SO THE LORD GOD WILL CAUSE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PRAISE TO SPROUT UP before all the nations.” (Isaiah 61:11 ESV)

All around us nature does what God designed it to do. Through the transition of the seasons we witness the growth and life of God’s creation. Sprouts come up from the earth and seed that is sown in gardens and fields springs up as it was intended to be. As a part of God’s wondrous creation, what is “sprouting” up from within us? What does the world see being PRODUCED in our life? Are we allowing God to cultivate RIGHTEOUSNESS in and among us? Is the seed of God’s Word (Luke 8:11; James 1:21; 1 Pet. 1:23) taking root in our life so as to cause “RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PRAISE TO SPROUT UP” in the sight of the world around us?

Perhaps you are thinking this focus would have been a better one for Spring rather than Fall. However, every season and day of the year is the time for us to grow, blossom, and bear the fruit of RIGHTEOUSNESS as a witness to the world of what God intends life to be all about. May the sprouting continue as we live lives cultivated by God.

Have a great day REMAINING IN THE MASTER GARDENER’S CARE!
Carl

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You Snooze, You Lose!

Have you ever slept in and missed an opportunity? Have you experienced sleeping through your alarm and completely missing or at least becoming late for an important appointment? Has your mind ever drifted off into the land of daydreams causing you to miss some instructions or an important announcement? To snooze at the wrong time could mean missing the opportunity of a lifetime. There is the need to WAKE UP to that which is coming and what it is that needs to be done now.

Note the admonishment Paul gave as he stressed the glorious truth regarding the resurrection of Christ and that which is to come for us.

“WAKE UP from your drunken stupor, as is right, AND DO NOT GO ON SINNING. For SOME HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF GOD. I say this to your shame.” (1 Corinthians 15:34 ESV)

To continue to snooze would be to shamefully lose! Are we alert regarding our own activities? Are they right? Are they properly linked to a knowledge of God? If not, we will find ourselves staggering through life from one ideology to another rather than finding a steady footing in the truth.

Even as we have acknowledged God and the truth of His Word, it is possible to become complacent with where we are and begin to sleepily drift off. It is important to remain AWAKE and alert to what is going on within us and how we are to continue living in preparation for things to come.

Note the warning to the church at Sardis.
“(1) And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. ‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. (2) WAKE UP, and STRENGTHEN WHAT REMAINS and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. (3) Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. IF YOU WILL NOT WAKE UP, I WILL COME LIKE A THIEF, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you.’” (Revelation 3:1-3 ESV)

To snooze, they only stood to lose! The present was the time to WAKE UP and strengthen what life remained. To be AWAKE would mean no surprise because of their readiness regarding things to come whenever they would take place. (note also 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6)

May we keep in mind Paul’s exhortation to the church at Rome.
“(11) Besides this you know the time, that the HOUR HAS COME for you TO WAKE FROM SLEEP. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. (12) The NIGHT IS FAR GONE; the DAY IS AT HAND. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.” (Romans 13:11-12 ESV)

To snooze, we lose! How AWAKE are we? Let us not keep pushing the snooze button, but WAKE UP to the alarm of the need for our readiness and the readiness of others. It may be later than we think! Therefore let us get up and wipe the sleep out of our eyes so that we can focus clearly on the life we are to live! Let us stand up and stretch with an upward view toward God and the glorious things He has in store for us. Recognizing the full realization of our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed, let us eagerly press on in the light of truth as we look forward to that eternal day when we will be caught up together with our Lord.

Have a great day READY TO RISE AND SHINE IN THE LORD!
Carl

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Pen or Pencil?

Do you like to work crossword puzzles? One of the widows of our congregation whom I visit on a regular basis is usually working one when I drop by to visit. She finds crossword puzzles to be a nice way to pass the time. Crossword puzzles are also a good focus for her mind. Two things that seem well associated with crossword puzzles is a sharp pencil and a sharp mind. Perhaps a third thing would be a good eraser.

When I work crossword puzzles I don’t approach them with enough confidence to use a pen. I know I will mark down letters and words that will need to be changed in order for everything to fit. Someone who does crossword puzzles with a pen has much more confidence in themselves that do I.

I generally carry both an ink pen and a led pen (mechanical pencil) in my shirt pocket. Sometimes I want to lightly mark things in a way that I know I can erase or change them (such as bowings or other rehearsal notations in orchestra music that has been borrowed) while at other times I want to mark something down in a way that is more permanent. There are times I will even use a PERMANENT MARKER so that weather, laundering, or time will not quickly remove what has been written.

Continuing from the passage we noted yesterday, Paul stated…
“(2) You yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all. (3) And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written NOT WITH INK BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD, NOT ON TABLETS OF STONE BUT ON TABLETS OF HUMAN HEARTS.” (2 Corinthians 3:2-3 ESV)

In relation to what we noted yesterday, Paul did not need a degree on his wall or a glowing reference letter in his back pocket. The changed lives of the Corinthians (though still in the transformation process) were themselves a testimony to the work of God through Paul. However it was not like a penciled notation. Nor was it something even written with ink or chiseled into cold stone. Rather than the focus on the exterior, the work had begun from the inside out as the message of Christ became written on softened hearts receptive and responsive to the Word. External views may coerce us to do certain things and not do others without the heart being involved at all. It is the internal working of God’s Truth that brings lasting transformation to life. The Spirit of Truth can place a more PERMANENT MARK on our lives to give us more confidence for life than the estimation of others.

That which one feels more confident about may be written with a pen rather than a pencil. However, that which bears the mark of God’s Eternal Spirit can be viewed with even greater confidence. Are we allowing the PERMANENT MARK of a long lasting transformation to be upon our heart? May we continue to allow the living Word of God to bring a mark of confidence to our life.

Have a great day LIVING WITH THE TRUTH’S IMPRINT CLEARLY MARKED!
Carl

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Commendation!

As Paul traveled preaching the Gospel of Jesus, he spent a year and six months in Corinth. (Acts 18:11) In his second letter to these Christians who should have known him well (having been there and already written an earlier letter), Paul asked the following questions.

We read…
“Are we beginning to COMMEND OURSELVES again? Or do we need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you, or from you?” (2 Corinthians 3:1 ESV)

Paul had just mentioned those who were “peddlers” of God’s Word rather then men of sincerity. (2 Corinthians 2:17) Apparently there were some who were seeking personal gain in teaching others. That gain may have been simply to get money, to gain a large following (building up their own ego), or both. The letters of recommendation they carried may have been boasted as coming from important people, perhaps even claiming they had been sent by the Apostles in Jerusalem (note Acts 15:24), or may have been completely fraudulent.

We place ourselves in a dangerous situation when we begin to measure ourselves merely by what others say about us. Having a good reputation is a good thing (i.e. Acts 24:16), however Jesus cautioned His disciples with regard to people speaking well of them, because that’s how false prophets had been spoken of in the past. (Luke 6:26) It is what GOD KNOWS about our life that needs to matter to us! The way GOD KNEW Paul’s life was the way he hoped the Corinthians would know him. (2 Corinthians 5:11)

Today, on the internet, one can pay money and get a certificate alleging the degree has been earned from some educational institution without having taken a class. Anyone can find choice people to write them a letter of recommendation, but bottom line we need to consider what GOD THINKS about our life. It’s not flashy press releases or gathered statistics (which can many times be manipulated to say just about anything), but it begins and ends with GOD’S VIEW of what is going on down deep within. What does GOD SEE compelling us to serve? Is it for self-glory or to genuinely meet needs and glorify Him? What is it that compels us to live obedient lives? Is it only out of a sense of duty or is it because we genuinely desire to please God who loves us so dearly and wants the utmost best for us? It is God’s commendation we need to seek above all because He has no ulterior motive than to bring benefit to us and through us.

We may not always see the results of our service. Pie charts and graphs may not be able to represent the impact of what we are doing in service to God’s glory. However, GOD SEES IT ALL and will not forget the works (Hebrews 6:10) we are doing from a sincere heart. Therefore, let us not minimize the possible impact our day to day actions can have on those around us. Ultimately righteousness will reveal itself as we live to please the One Who gave us life and offers the hope of it for eternity.

Have a great day SEEKING TO PLEASE GOD IN ALL THINGS!
Carl

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Surviving Or Thriving?

As a follower of Jesus, do you view yourself as a “survivor” or a “thriver”? Are you one who has learned to “cope” with life or one who, in the hope of Christ, is pressing on with more strength and more confidence with each step you take?

In Paul’s letter to the church at Rome, he tried to encourage his readers how much God was for them. (Romans 8:31) However, they faced challenges as Paul did that could cause some to wonder about that. Does our view of God helps us merely to cope or are we strengthened to press on because of a STEADFAST HOPE?

Paul went on to say…
“No, in all these things we are MORE THAN CONQUERORS through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37 ESV)

He didn’t say, “just winners” or “just victors”, but rather “MORE” than conquerors! That doesn’t seem to be the picture of one who just copes or survives. It is true many things in this life are tough! In fact, Paul listed some of those things in connection with this verse: tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, and sword. (Romans 8:35). With God’s help and through retaining a STEADFAST HOPE in His promises, we can make it through these.

In the midst of hardships experienced by the early church we still see a picture of thriving faith and the powerful testimony of unwavering perseverance because of HOPE IN CHRIST. Like Peter, we can either look at the storm and begin to sink (Matthew 14:30) or we can keep our eyes on Jesus and continue to walking toward Him. Our perspective on the truth linked to Christ is going to make the difference in our daily walk.

Have a great day THRIVING IN CHRIST!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 8/19/1998, (Edited some and the passage has been changed to ESV)]

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Crossing The Line! (part 3 of 3)

When a line has been crossed, in many cases it is possible to cross back over. One may still feel the effects of having crossed the line (i.e. bumps and bruises, burns, some scarring, etc.), but the life may still be saved. Climbing back to safety may not be easy and accepting rescue may be embarrassing or at least humbling, but when it comes to saving the life, whatever it takes should be accepted.

Paul spent many years on the wrong side of the line. He was involved in actions of which he was later ashamed. He had been a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an arrogantly violent opponent of Christ and the church. (1 Timothy 1:13) However, he accepted the opportunity to CROSS BACK OVER and received a second chance at life.

Paul encouraged…
“(15) The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. (16) But I RECEIVED MERCY for this reason, THAT IN ME, as the foremost, JESUS CHRIST MIGHT DISPLAY HIS PERFECT PATIENCE as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.” (1 Timothy 1:15-16 ESV)

Paul, the “foremost” of sinners, received forgiveness. His message of encouragement was that if the grace of God was adequate for him, it would be sufficient for you and me as well. Forgiveness is possible. However, there must still be a genuine repentant spirit that is truly sorrowful for the sin, not merely for having been found out. (note 2 Corinthians 7:10)

Peter encouraged…
“(3) HIS DIVINE POWER HAS GRANTED TO US ALL THINGS THAT PERTAIN TO LIFE AND GODLINESS, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, (4) by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so THAT THROUGH THEM YOU MAY BECOME PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE, HAVING ESCAPED FROM THE CORRUPTION THAT IS IN THE WORLD because of sinful desire.” (2 Peter 1:3-4 ESV)

God is all about providing that which is completely sufficient. His grace can adequately deal with our sins. The blood of Jesus is sufficient to cleanse us of all sin. (1 John 1:7) May we accept the opportunity afforded for RETURNING to His side of the line. Like Paul, let us desire above all things to be “found in Him.” (Philippians 3:9) Therein we will find eternal safety.

Have a great day APPRECIATING BEING DRAWN TO SAFETY IN CHRIST!
Carl

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Crossing The Line! (part 2 of 3)

Tape marked “Danger! Do Not Enter” is sometimes strung across or around an area that should not be entered. Nevertheless there are some who think they can do so safely and end up falling, injuring themselves, or even losing their life. Understanding where the line is drawn and for what purpose is important to acknowledge.

Many people draw lines of which they tell themselves they would never cross over. They may participate in activities that could create an opportunity for temptation, but they have “confidently” established a line they claim they just would never cross. The danger, however, is how close to that line they seem to remain. Doing so presents the constant danger of falling or getting pushed or pulled over the line and more often than not that seems to occur. Many end up going further into something than they thought they ever would simply because they did not KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE. Our aim should not be to see how close we can get to the danger, but rather how FAR AWAY FROM IT we can remain. This is no more true than in the area of sexual temptation.

As youth, let me caution you to not even begin to dabble with pornography. Don’t even get started down that road. I urge you to even be very selective regarding the movies you watch and the places you go with the opposite sex. There is enough temptation around us without going and setting ourselves up for more. You, like many others (adults included) may have drawn a distinct line, but it is far too easy for one thing to lead to another when one fails to STAY AS FAR AWAY from the temptation as possible.

Paul urged…
“But SEXUAL IMMORALITY AND ALL IMPURITY or covetousness MUST NOT EVEN BE NAMED AMONG YOU, as is proper among saints.” (Ephesians 5:3 ESV)

The Greek “be named” (onomazo), denotes “to name, mention, or address by name.” [Vine’s Exp. Dict. Of N.T. Words] The New International Versions reads “among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality….” We ought to live our lives so that others would not even consider the possibility of such being a part of our life. That’s HOW FAR our life should be removed from this sin and anything else contrary to God‘s Will. Let us not be guilty of drawing ourselves or others even close to such lines. Our manner of life should be such that the label of such activities could in no way be associated with us.

Instead, Paul urged…
“So FLEE YOUTHFUL PASSIONS AND PURSUE RIGHTEOUSNESS, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” (2 Timothy 2:22 ESV)

Don’t walk -- RUN! Get AWAY! Keep AWAY! “ABSTAIN from every form of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:22 ESV) Wisdom is exercised in seeking to keep our lives as FAR REMOVED from the sin that so easily ensnares (Hebrews 12:1) as we can. These warnings are all for our benefit. May we heed them as we continually exercise proper discernment in life.

Have a great day INCREASING THE DISTANCE FROM TEMPTATION!
Carl

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Crossing The Line! (part 1 of 3)

Just as there are two sides to a line, there are also two kinds of lines to which we might refer. There are the lines we should not cross and the lines we should. Today, let us consider together a line that should be crossed.

There are times when an individual begins to consider becoming a Christian, yet there is apprehension in stepping over into that sphere. They believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior. They acknowledge changes that need to take place in their life. However, they hesitate to step over the line in submission to Jesus because they think they still have much more yet to learn. The reality is that this is true for all of us regardless of how long we might have been a Christian. Another reason for not crossing the line is the feeling they will not be able to live up to the commitment of a lifelong walk in Christ. Both of these excuses focus the attention on one’s own abilities rather than the help received once one is in Christ.

Though we must continue to focus on surrendering to the Lord’s Will and strive to grow spiritually, our COMPETENCY is not in and of ourselves. If our own ability and goodness were sufficient, Christ need not have given His life for us. The truth is that even our best is not good enough. Recognizing the difficulty of pulling our life together ought to encourage the step over into the realm of Christ where the help is found to get it together.

As spiritual as Paul was, he still declared…
“(5) Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us. Our sufficiency is from GOD, (6) WHO HAS MADE US COMPETENT to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” (2 Corinthians 3:5-6 ESV)

We should recognize the serious commitment being made when being baptized into Christ. (Romans 6:1-4) However, let us not forget THE HELP WE RECEIVE on the other side as our sins have been washed away. (Acts 22:16)

In his first letter to the church at Corinth, Paul acknowledged…
“(9) For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. (10) BUT BY THE GRACE OF GOD I AM WHAT I AM, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.” (1 Corinthians 15:9-10 ESV)

It was not “by Paul”, but “BY THE GRACE OF GOD” that Paul had become what he had become. So, as Paul pressed on in life regardless of the situation, he did so with the confidence…

“I can do ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13 ESV)

May our dependence on Christ, rather than self, be kept in mind as we continue taking life one step and day at a time.

Have a great day LIVING ON THE RIGHT SIDE IN CHRIST!
Carl

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Beyond Physical Stamina!

The older I have gotten, the more I have begun to feel the limitations of my body. Though my walking regimen has helped me regain much of the energy and stamina I possessed in my younger years, my body still reminds me when it has had enough. I may not always sense it at the time, but the next day clues me in when I have over done it.

Through Isaiah we gain this encouragement.
“(30) Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; (31) but THEY WHO WAIT FOR THE LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:30-31 ESV)

Even the strength of youth has its limitation. There is still a point at which weariness comes and exhaustion sets in. Though there is the youthful drive to push the limits, a point is reached when the body says, “enough.”

This coming face to face with limitation is not only with regard to our physical capacity, but also other aspects of our life. The vigor of youth that often reveals itself physically is sometimes lacking when it comes to the things of life that may impact emotionally and spiritually. How often has peer pressure wearied and worn down until the fight is given up? How many times have Christian standards and values been mocked and ridiculed until they are finally renounced? How often has the strength of moral character been undermined, bringing about a moment of weakness wherein one caves in to the words, “No one will know.” or “If you love me…”?

We must all come to grips with the reality of our limitations. However, that recognition is not to be allowed to cause us (young or old) to give up and quit, but to realize we are not to depend merely upon our own energy and strength. As Isaiah acknowledged the reality that even youths will faint and become weary and young men will fall exhausted, his encouragement was toward looking beyond self. Rather than launching out into life relying on even the stamina of youth, there is the need to wait for the Lord and launch into life WITH HIM! With His Will under our wings we (young or old) can be provided the stamina to soar as gloriously and majestically as an eagle.

Today I cannot do the running I used to do because my knees can no longer take the pounding. However, due to my continuing exercise regimen, I walk faster and farther than I ever have. I pray that is becoming the picture of my spiritual life as well. How about you?

Paul exhorted…
“(8) for while bodily training is of some value, GODLINESS IS OF VALUE IN EVERY WAY, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” (1 Timothy 4:6 ESV)

Do we want to soar? Let us seek to develop and maintain SPIRITUAL STAMINA by trusting in the STRENGTH GOD PROVIDES so that in our running we do not get weary and in our walking we do not faint. May our life continually be lifted higher and higher as we recognize the BENEFITS OF GODLINESS relating to the present life and the eternal life to come.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A STRONG RESOLVE BASED ON GOD’S PROMISES!
Carl

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A Pressing Issue!

From the words of Agur we read…
“(32) If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, put your hand on your mouth. (33) For PRESSING MILK produces curds, PRESSING THE NOSE produces blood, and PRESSING ANGER produces strife.” (Proverbs 30:32-33 ESV)

The beginning of verse 33 in the New King James Version reads, “for as the churning of milk produces butter.” I’ve seen a butter churn, but have never tried one. The churn was one of my wife’s experiences. She grew up on a farm and reminisces about a cow they had whose milk had such thick cream that when trying to make whipped cream they would end up with butter instead.

The second pressing thing mentioned by Agur -- the pressing of the nose -- is something I know a bit about since I wrestled during my junior and senior high school years and one year in college. My nose got pressed into the mat more than once, causing me to bleed on the mat, on myself, and on my opponent.

Though we may understand what happens with the milk and the nose, it is the third part I believe the writer of this section of Proverbs wanted us to really take to heart. Though it may be often observed and experienced, the proper caution is not always exercised. Like pressing or churning makes butter and pressing the nose can result in a nose bleed, the real “pressing issue” is to acknowledge that which produces strife. There comes a time when we need to put our hand over our mouth (vs.32) and realize we have said enough. To keep running off the mouth only creates more trouble. Going on and on, ANGRILY pressing a point further, may only lead to more intense conflict rather than resolution. How often have we seen (or experienced) ANGER only serving to agitate and stir up more trouble by adding fuel to the fire that may have already been sparked? If ANGER is not restrained our resentments most often end up being taken too far.

When we allow ANGER to get the best of us it usually brings out the worst in us. It also opens the door for the devil’s work. (Ephesians 4:26-27) Instead of exalting ourselves (Proverbs 30:32) let us seek to maintain a gentle and humble spirit to help us retain control as we interact with others.

Have a great day ENJOYING THE REWARD OF RESTRAINING THE RAGE!
Carl

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What's Happening?

In December of 2002, the Convention Authority of Las Vegas, Nevada, launched an advertising campaign in which each of the television commercials ends with the displayed statement, “What Happens Here Stays Here.” One of the adds plays scene after scene of a guy who has told a number of gals each a different line of work he was in. Here was a place where he could try to come across as being anything he wanted to be because people didn’t know him and he would soon be leaving anyway. He was there to have a good time before returning to his REAL WORLD.

There can be many serious effects of taking such a slogan too seriously. “What Happens Here Stays Here” seems to be an open invitation for people to do things in Las Vegas they would never think of doing at home. I’m sure Las Vegas law enforcement gets weary of having to constantly deal with people who after consuming too much alcohol exercise too little judgment in what they end up doing during their short stay. Couldn’t we say it’s an invitation for some to live a lie?

What would be the impact for such to be a motto for the church? “What Happens Here Stays Here.” Have some already adopted it? Have we? Is it all a put on when we assemble with the church? Or if it is real, are we guilty of leaving it there? Does the spiritual thinking, speaking, and activity that goes on in our assemblies merely happen there and stay there? Or is it truly what and who we are so that when we are living life in the REAL WORLD we can have the kind of influence God desires? We are only in our assemblies for a short while each week. What we do there is important to consider, making sure it is not merely pleasing to us, but rather to God. (note Amos 5:21-24) However, we must also focus on the consistency between what goes on there and how we live the rest of the time in the REAL WORLD.

Jesus knew how challenged His disciples would be in the REAL WORLD. He had a concern for them. However, they had a mission to fulfill and they could not do it in isolation.

Note how Jesus prayed for them.
“(14) I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. (15) I DO NOT ASK THAT YOU TAKE THEM OUT OF THE WORLD, BUT THAT YOU KEEP THEM FROM THE EVIL ONE. (16) They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.” (John 17:14-16 ESV)

Jesus did not pray for their removal from the world, but for their protection as they lived and labored in it. They were not of the world, but needed to be in it in order to be the light and salt we have each been called to be. (Matthew 5:13-16) Monasticism is not taught in the Scriptures. We may like the world (the atmosphere) we enjoy in our assemblies, but we cannot wall ourselves in and still fulfill God’s purpose of reaching a lost and dying world. What goes on in our assemblies (our focus on righteousness and truth, the essence of holiness, a heart connection with God, etc.) must go with us as we live our daily lives in the REAL WORLD. May we be mindful of taking our Christianity (our connection to Christ as His disciples) with us, living it wherever we go. The REAL WORLD needs to see how God’s Way really does work.

Have a great day EXEMPLIFYING THE POWER OF CONSISTENT GODLY LIVING!
Carl

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"I'll Show You!"

“I’ll show you!” Those are fighting words. Those are words that declare, “I’m stronger than you. I can take you and I will.” Those are words that precede stepping into action. Those are words that declare the situation is going to be taken under control. However, that may not be the demonstration of TRUE STRENGTH, nor of the greatest control for that matter.

Solomon noted…
“WHOEVER IS SLOW TO ANGER IS BETTER THAN THE MIGHTY, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” (Proverbs 16:32 ESV)

Many are the mighty who cannot control themselves. That is why there continues to be conflict and unrest in this world. Might does not necessarily make right. Might can often times be wrong.

The kind of strength Solomon referred to was demonstrated by our Lord. Jesus, who could have called twelve legions (one legion of Romans soldiers equaled 6000 men during the time of Christ) of angels (Matthew 26:53), RESTRAINED that power, surrendered to the “authorities” and fulfilled the Father’s plan. When Jesus was on the cross and was chided by those who dared Him to prove Himself (Matthew 27:42), He remained where He had been nailed. Though the Jewish leaders involved in sending Christ to the cross may have felt proud of the authority they had exercised and the Romans who carried out the crucifixion may have taken pride in their connection to Roman authority, the One who had “all authority” (Matthew 28:18) POWERFULLY showed Himself to be “better than the mighty.” He RESTRAINED the power He could have exercised and the control of His own spirit was greater than the rule that might be held over a city.

That is what meekness is; POWER UNDER CONTROL. It is a spirit we need to learn as we consider the example of our Lord. It is one of the ways we can be Jesus to those around us. The meek and gentle spirit is an uncommon quality that can have a POWERFUL IMPACT on those around us. Like Jesus, let us entrust ourselves to the One who will ultimately judge and sort it all out (1 Peter 2:23) as we allow a Christ-like spirit to become more and more evident in the way we interact with others. Rather than being quick to react, let us instead be motivated to act in Christ’s gentle loving manner of meeting others where they are and pointing them to Him.

Have a great day SHOWING THE TRUE STRENGTH THAT BEGINS WITHIN!
Carl

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Trained In What?

The statement has been made that “PRACTICE makes perfect.” These words have been used to encourage children learning to play the piano or some other instrument. It takes PRACTICE to perfect the talent and the more one PRACTICES the more the skill increases. However, could this principle be true in a negative way? If this principle is true in its general application to life, whatever we continue PRACTICING is what we will continue to get better at doing whether it be a bad thing or good. Though PRACTICING to perfect the ability to play an instrument is good, Peter referred to some whose hearts were “trained in greed.” (2 Peter 2:14 ESV) Apparently they continued to PRACTICE and perfect that skill. Therefore, since “PRACTICE makes perfect” we ought to be mindful of what it is we are PRACTICING. This struck me as I read the following words from John.

John exhorted…
“(7) Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever PRACTICES RIGHTEOUSNESS IS RIGHTEOUS, as he is righteous. (8) Whoever makes a PRACTICE OF SINNING IS OF THE DEVIL, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. (9) No one born of God makes a PRACTICE OF SINNING, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. (10) By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever DOES NOT PRACTICE RIGHTEOUSNESS IS NOT OF GOD, nor is the one who does not love his brother.” (1 John 3:7-10 ESV)

First of all, John was not saying our life is without sin. (note 1 John 1:10) The focus was with regard to what is being PRACTICED in the life. What is the ongoing thing we are trying to perfect? John noted the outcome of PRACTICING sin as drawing one into association with the devil and becoming known as his children. On the other hand those who PRACTICE righteousness become righteous as God is righteous and it becomes evident that they are the children of God. John stated as a very logical outcome that whatever we PRACTICE aligns us with whomever is the source of such, whether that be the devil or God. So, if “PRACTICE makes perfect” may we be sure we are seeking to be perfected toward the likeness of the truly Perfect One. (Matthew 5:48) That is the life truly worth the PRACTICE time!

Have a great day TRAINING IN RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Carl

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