Another Year Passed!

Here we are, the last day of 2006. Perhaps, like me, you wonder at how fast the year seems to have passed. God, in His great wisdom has given us life not in one big lump, but rather a day and moment at a time. That is how we should embrace the gift of each day as we unwrap it and put it to use in ways that reveal to God how much we appreciate what He has given.

Thank you for your continued interest in these daily focuses and a special welcome to those who joined the list this past year. I am so grateful for those of you who have continued to help promote “teEn-MAIL” and share it with others. I thank God for the special connection “teEn-MAIL” has brought about with precious souls from around the world whom I may never meet face to face this side of Heaven. Thank you to those of you who have let me know that I and the work here in Port Townsend, Washington (USA) continues in your prayers. I am also thankful for those who have let me know of the works going on in their area so that I could pray for those as well.

I thank God who continues to keep the daily focuses coming, for without His help and the wisdom of His Word this phase of my ministry would have ended long ago. I want to continue to encourage you all to spend time daily in the Word beyond the focuses I send. It is what God Himself declares through His Word that matters most, therefore He must be allowed to have the last word on every subject. Reading three to four chapters a day in the Old Testament and one chapter a day in the New Testament six days each week will allow you to read through the entire Bible in less than a year. As you make resolutions for the New Year, why not select a time of day that will work best for you and commit to reading through the Scriptures during 2007. Join me in making it an annual habit.

As we step from the old into the new, we may not know all that the new year holds for us. However, let us remember the One Who holds the future in His hands as we surrender our lives to Him for the work He desires to do in and through us.

In John’s words I pray for you…
“Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” (3 John 2 ESV)

Have a great day FINDING THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH THE DAY HAS BEEN GIVEN!
Carl

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Fickle Fans!

The word “fan” is a shortened form of “fanatic” and to say the least, some sports fans are fanatics when it comes to the sports and teams they love. These fans just can’t wait for the next game and all the hype and food that goes along with watching their favorite team. They also love to sport their team colors by the display of bumper stickers and window decals, wearing team clothing, or even painting their RV (recreation vehicle) the team colors. Now that’s devotion, right? But how far does that devotion go with all the so called “fans”? Fans can be so fickle. For so many, as long as their team is winning they will walk around talking up what “WE” have done and how it looks like “WE” are going all the way to the championships. However, when the team is on a losing streak, the talk turns away from “WE” to what “THEY are not doing right. Where does “WE” go when the SUPPORT is needed through the tough times? Where is the enthusiasm then? Couldn’t the team use some encouragement even more when things are not going well?

Are we fickle about our relationship with the church as a whole and our relationships with individual brothers and sisters within it? Are we a big fan when things are going well, but ready to withdraw our SUPPORT (either bodily or financially) when things may be challenging? Could our lack of encouragement during such times become an act of discouragement? Isn’t the encouragement and SUPPORT needed even more when things are challenging than when things are going well? Is our involvement perhaps characterized by talking about the “WE” as we sit wrapped up in the stands (the church pew) while others are doing the work on the field, then criticizing when it doesn’t seem to be going well?

The Hebrew writer addressing Christians going through a time of severe persecution, exhorted…

“(1) Let brotherly love continue. (2) Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (3) Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.” (Hebrews 13:1-3 ESV)

And Paul urged those at Thessalonica…
“(11) Therefore ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER and BUILD ONE ANOTHER UP, just as you are doing. … (14) And we urge you, brothers, ADMONISH THE IDLE, ENCOURAGE THE FAINTHEARTED, HELP THE WEAK, BE PATIENT WITH THEM ALL.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 & 14 ESV)

Praise God He has not been fickle about us, but has continued in faithfulness to His plan and promises. Let us be that way toward one another within the body of Christ as we recognize how desperately we need each other and the SUPPORT that will be both given and received. If we can maintain a zeal for the church and each other “WE” will be seen as the place others will want to belong; a sphere of genuine love and SUPPORT that is refreshing in a world of so much fickleness. May we continue to embrace the “WE” through both the good times and the challenging moments as we seek to fulfill the purposes of God.

Have a great day REMAINING A FAITHFUL PLAYER ON GOD’S TEAM!
Carl

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Joy To The World! (part 3 of 3)

Oh, what JOY there was associated with the coming of JESUS. What great JOY is also experienced in the life associated with JESUS and the eternal hope found in Him. And what enormous JOY there is linking heaven and earth in response to each soul drawn into the kingdom of God.

As JESUS emphasized the importance and value of each soul to God, He stated the following parable.
“(8) Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? (9) And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ (10) Just so, I tell you, THERE IS JOY BEFORE THE ANGELS OF GOD OVER ONE SINNER WHO REPENTS.” (Luke 15:8-10 ESV)

No wonder Jesus could endure the cross, looking beyond the anguish, and focusing on the JOY of what it would accomplish. JESUS knew full well what the value of every soul was. He knew the JOYFUL celebration over every sinner who turned back to God. And when we REJOICE and experience the great JOY of a soul brought to JESUS, we are joining with the celebration of God in the presence of the angels. Wow! Heaven and earth linked together in JOYFUL celebration!

Can there be any greater JOY; a JOY that transcends this world into the next? May our life be a light that will lead others to the Source of the greatest JOYS that can ever be experienced. Even now we can be a part of the celebration.

Have a great day JOINING IN HEAVEN’S JOY!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 12/29/2002 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Joy To The World! (part 2 of 3)

JESUS came that we might have not only eternal life, but even abundant life now. (John 10:10) His coming brought true and lasting JOY into a dark world. However, this JOY has more to do with focus than it does circumstances. How often do we allow external conditions of life to take away the JOY our Lord has sought to instill within us. Consider the circumstances of the birth of JESUS. They were certainly not glorious in all aspects. There was no room at the inn, therefore their room became a stable and our Lord’s bed was a manger. He was also not brought into a king’s family, although He was to be the King of kings. He grew up in the humble home of a poor carpenter, yet His growth caught the attention of others. (Luke 2:46-52) And even the many things the Lord endured as He walked the face of this earth were distressing. As we look at His life we are to learn that JOY can be possessed even in the midst of pain and struggle. It was JESUS’ focus on the purpose of His coming that was the source of His endless JOY.

The Hebrew writer exhorted…
“(1) Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (2) looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, WHO FOR THE JOY THAT WAS SET BEFORE HIM ENDURED THE CROSS, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (3) Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.” (Hebrews 12:1-3 ESV)

JESUS triumphed in JOY over death and made it possible for us to view death with the JOY of eternal hope. (note 1 Thessalonians 4:13) But even as we press on in this realm, JESUS would have us understand the essence of JOY. He desires for HIS JOY to be our JOY.

Prior to JESUS’ crucifixion, He encouraged the disciples with these words…
“(9) As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. (10) If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. (11) These things I have spoken to you, THAT MY JOY MAY BE IN YOU, and THAT YOUR JOY MAY BE FULL.” (John 15:9-11 ESV)

Later JESUS also noted the grief the disciples would endure as He was crucified. However, He encouraged them that their sorrow would “turn into JOY” and it would be a JOY that could not be taken away. (John 16:20 & 22)

Paul experienced such JOY in his relationship to the Lord and service in the kingdom that he was able to state, “In all our affliction I AM OVERFLOWING WITH JOY.” (2 Corinthians 7:4 ESV) Therefore his encouragement to others was to “REJOICE IN THE LORD ALWAYS; again I will say, REJOICE!” (Philippians 4:4 ESV)

JESUS was JOYFUL as He viewed the accomplishment of the means of our salvation. Paul shared that JOY as he labored for the cause of Christ. We can also experience that JOY as we keep in mind what it is all about to live life for Christ Who gave His life for us. May we be strengthened by a JOY that cannot be taken from us.

Have a great day EXPERIENCING THE JOY OF JESUS!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 12/28/2002 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Joy To The World! (part 1 of 3)

With the coming of JESUS into the world, was the coming of JOY. The Messiah had been anticipated. The time of His coming had been longed for. And the announcement to shepherds came accompanied by an angelic host praising God and saying…

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14 ESV)

The sight, though at first a fearful one to the shepherds (Luke 2:9), quickly became one of excitement and JOY. And this is how it should be. JOY is to be associated with JESUS because of the JOY He Himself has experienced and desires to impart. Without JESUS there is much room for the lack of JOY. But with Jesus, there is every reason for being filled with JOY.

As Jesus walked this earth He imparted JOY where there had been sorrow. Every funeral He attended He seemed to interrupt. Remember the widow’s son at Nain. (Luke 7:11-15) Also the raising of Lazarus. (John 11:38-44)

Where there was despair, JESUS left the JOY of hope. Those condemned by others found the blessing of pardon in Him. Remember the woman caught in the act of adultery who was dragged into the presence of JESUS as He taught in the Temple. (John 8) Also remember the condemned thief on the cross and the assurance given him by the Lord. (Luke 23:40-43)

Where there was rejection, JESUS left the JOY of acceptance. Remember the children He received to bless, though the disciples attempted to discourage them from coming. (Luke 18:15-17) Can you imagine JESUS laughing and playing with a youngster on His knee? To recognize Jesus as One Who knew JOY in its fullest sense should make it not too difficult to imagine. Also remember the woman who anointed JESUS’ feet. (Luke 7:36-50) It was an opportunity for her love to be acknowledged and a Pharisee named Simon to learn a needed lesson.

And our list could go on in reflecting the multitude of ways in which Jesus interacted with so many as He walked upon the earth. His presence inspired JOY. His teaching instilled JOY. And His eternal essence should cause His JOY to abide in us.

Yes, JOY to the world, the Lord has come! And He is coming again! May we live in JOYFUL anticipation of the fulfillment of all God’s promises in JESUS.

Have a great day REJOICING IN CHRIST!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 12/27/2002 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Why Them?

If you had history making news, who would you tell? The biggest national newspaper? ABC news? The President or other national leader? The church elders? The preacher? Who?

When it came to announcing the birth of Jesus it is interesting to note who got the news first. In Luke’s account we read…

“(8) And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. (9) And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. (10) And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I BRING YOU GOOD NEWS OF A GREAT JOY that will be for all the people. (11) For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (12) And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.’” (Luke 2:8-12 ESV)

SHEPHERDS? These HUMBLE SHEPHERDS were involved in honorable work. They faithfully undertook the task to watching their sheep through the night? But why were SHEPHERDS chosen to receive this announcement? Why not the Jewish High Priest? Why not the Pharisees or teachers of the Law? Why not a group of elders of the people? Why SHEPHERDS?

Isn’t it interesting how many times God chooses the humble and lowly rather than the exalted among men to receive such wonderful announcements? Such were the ones (as we see even during Jesus’ public ministry) who were most eager to accept the Messiah. Many of the learned and exalted, the “elite” of the day, would not accept.

But there may be another parallel here. As SHEPHERDS watched their sheep, the “GOOD SHEPHERD” (John 10:14-15) came onto life’s scene. SHEPHERDS! Jesus later would look upon the people with compassion realizing how they were like “sheep without a SHEPHERD”. (Mark 6:34) SHEPHERDS! Ones who realized what it meant to humbly serve and protect. SHEPHERDS! Folks who understood what it took to meet the needs of those placed in their care. SHEPHERDS!

But the “Great SHEPHERD” (Hebrews 13:20) these SHEPHERDS would go to see as an infant would one day become the “Lamb of God” who would take away the sins of the world. (John 1:29)

What a connection!

It is through humility that we are best able to receive God’s greatest announcements. To the Corinthians Paul wrote…

“(26) For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. (27) But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; (28) God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, (29) so that no human being might boast in the presence of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:26-29 ESV)

Why SHEPHERDS? Why not! And why not us?

Have a great day HUMBLY RECEIVING GOD’S “GOOD NEWS”!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 12/25/1998 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Just The Facts!

WHAT WE DON’T KNOW!
The exact date of Christ’s birth.
The exact location of the stable.
How many wise men came to visit.

WHAT WE DO KNOW!
Jesus was born in Bethlehem.
Jesus was born of the virgin Mary, having conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus was born in a manger because there was no room at the inn.
Angels announced His birth as shepherds watched their sheep.
Shepherds visited Him.
Wise men later visited when Jesus was in a house, not a stable.
Gifts were brought, but not by Santa.
It was during the days of Caesar Augustus and the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
King Herod was jealous to hear of another King.
All took place according to prophecy.
We are not expressly told in the Scriptures to celebrate His birth, but we are told to remember His death, burial, and resurrection. He had to live before He could die. But He lives still!

WHAT IS OF SIGNIFICANCE?
That Jesus was born? Yes, because it was all according to prophecy which confirms Who He is! To understand and accept the humanity of Jesus is as important as the acceptance of His Deity. (John 1:1-2,14 and I John 4:2-3)
His purpose? Yes, this is of utmost importance (I Corinthians 15:1-4). He came to seek and to save the lost, giving Himself for our sins.
His life is an example for us to follow.
Jesus is to be focused on every day of our lives, not just a couple times each year.
Jesus is not merely, as some say, “The Reason For The Season”, but rather
THE REASON
FOR LIFE!

Have a great life KEEPING HIM IN FOCUS!
Carl

Jesus said…
“…I came that they may have life and HAVE IT ABUNDANTLY.” (John 10:10b ESV)

WHATEVER THE REASON
FOR THE SEASON WITH YOU
MAY JESUS BE THE REASON
FOR YOUR HOPE ALL YEAR THROUGH.
(Carl W. Hanson 12/97)

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[This focus was originally sent 12/24/1998 & 12/25/2002 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Preparation!

Today is marked on the calendar as “Christmas Eve”. Decorations have been prepared and hung up for days and children have set out cookies and milk in anticipation of the coming of “Santa Claus.” We may find a lot of fun in these traditions and the shared time with family and friends should be viewed as very precious. However, too many go about all of this, making preparations for so many things, while neglecting the thing MOST IMPORTANT! Consider the following well written and thought provoking poem written in the style of “’Twas The Night Before Christmas.”

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’TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE JESUS CAME!

’Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house
Not a creature was praying, not one in the house.
Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care
In hope that Jesus would not come there.

The children were dressing to crawl into bed.
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head
And mom in her rocker with baby on her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.

When out of the East there arose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here.
With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray
I knew in a moment this must be THE DAY!

The light of His face made me cover my head.
It was Jesus! Returning just like He had said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.

In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said “It’s not here”, my head hung in shame.

The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were ready He rose without a sound
While all the rest were left standing around.

I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I had been ready tonight.

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is drawing near.
There’s only one life and when comes the last call
We’ll find that the Bible was true after all!

[AUTHOR UNKNOWN]
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JESUS IS COMING AGAIN! He said so! (John 14:3) Angels said so! (Acts 1:11) Are we living prepared for HIS RETURN? Because of coming judgment we need to consider what kind of conduct marks our life. (2 Peter 3:11) Not knowing when that day will be (Matthew 24:36) we must be certain our relationship with the Lord is such that we would be ready for HIS RETURN at any moment. As Christians that day is to be a time of joy, not fear!

Paul encouraged…
“(15) For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. (16) For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. (17) Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, AND SO WE WILL ALWAYS BE WITH THE LORD. (18) Therefore encourage one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 ESV)

Have a great day WITH THIS TRULY BEING A THOUGHT THAT ENCOURAGES!
Carl

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Inflation and Wages!

Though people get “COST OF LIVING” raises, those increases in income never seem to quite keep up with the rate of inflation. Everything just seems to cost more and more with every year that passes. Wages that were once seen as adequate for a comfortable life are now sometimes viewed as being closer to the poverty level. Some who have thought they were set for a comfortable retirement have found themselves looking for further income. Still, there are people who seem to find the ability to be content with what they have and there is something to be said for learning to live within our means.

There is, however, another side of inflation, poverty and wages that is of utmost importance in being recognized. Inflation associated with people’s view of themselves (Romans 12:3) can easily puff one up with conceit (1 Timothy 6:3-4) and ultimately take them away from the truth. Those who continue to develop an inflated view of themselves tend to leave God and His Will more and more out of the picture as they go their own way pursuing their own desires. In time, these individuals become quite comfortable with where they are, not realizing the spiritual poverty level (Luke 12:21) to which they have fallen and the wages that will be received. When it comes to the wages of sin, they appear to not be subject to inflation, but remain constant.

Paul warned…
“For THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23 ESV)

Sin always has and always will come at a high cost. The wages earned from rebellion toward God and His Will is an eternity of separation from Him and the blessings He desires to provide. It is through our walking with Christ (1 John 1:7) in trusting faith, striving to maintain a faithful relationship with Him, that we can receive the gift God desires most to give. (2 Peter 3:9) The “COST OF LIVING” (Luke 14:25-33) for Him now will mean a secure retirement of everlasting life for which to look forward.

Have a great day LIVING WITHIN THE RICHNESS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Carl

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Intelligent Speech!

It distresses me when watching a movie and one or more of the characters seems to not be able to speak without using profanity. Because of the way many movies are we are very select in what we choose to watch. However, when I have been confronted with such language on the movie screen it seems there is an attempt to tell me that’s just the way it is in life. Even within the liberal community in which I live such is not depicted as the common way to speak. Certainly I hear some profanity spoken from time to time, but not the way some movie producers have chosen to represent its use in life. Someone has said, “Profanity is an evidence of the lack of a sufficient vocabulary -- and brains.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie] Would we agree?

Is it that difficult to find BETTER THINGS to say than the profanity some use? With so many words to pick from, why do some limit their vocabulary with a few “choice” words that really add nothing intellectually to their conversation?

The Hebrew writer stated…
“(7) For land that has drunk the rain that often falls on it, and produces a crop useful to those for whose sake it is cultivated, receives a blessing from God. (8) But if it bears thorns and thistles, it is worthless and near to being cursed, and its end is to be burned. (9) Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of BETTER THINGS -- things that belong to salvation.” (Hebrews 6:7-9 ESV)

As Christians, should not BETTER THINGS be expected of us? The context in which the Hebrew writer made the above statement was with regard to maturing in Christian faithfulness Hebrews 6:1) and though he did not specifically address the idea of speech, would not proper speech be a sign of having matured? What is characteristic of the fruit of our lips? If we are continually drawing from the right spring we will have no difficulty pouring forth speech (and actions) beneficial to others. Being ones who are privileged to drink in the nourishing blessings of God we should be seen as producing BETTER THINGS than that of the world.

Paul exhorted those at Ephesus to…
“Let NO CORRUPTING TALK come out of your mouths, but ONLY such as is GOOD FOR BUILDING UP, as FITS THE OCCASION, that it may GIVE GRACE TO THOSE WHO HEAR.” (Ephesians 4:29 ESV)

Let us seek for every aspect of our life to exemplify the intelligent design God intended. He gave us a brain and we are the ones who choose the vocabulary we will use. May we seriously consider the impact of our words and what they declare regarding our relationship with God.

Have a great day CONTRIBUTING TO UPLIFTING CONVERSATION!
Carl

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Question Or Declaration?

I can remember during my school years when a teacher would ask a question to which they would receive an answer accompanied by a tone of uncertainty. For example, the teacher would ask a question like, “In what year did the battle of Gettysburg take place?” to which a student might respond, “In 1863?” The teacher would then ask, “Are you asking me or telling me?” Even though the answer was correct, since it was phrased as a question it revealed a lack of CONFIDENCE with regard to the information.

When it comes to what we believe and the faith we have for living our lives in this realm, are we leaving others to wonder about our CERTAINTY? Needless to say there are things we do not know, but do we live with CONFIDENCE regarding what God has clearly revealed? Are others able to see that because of our relationship with Christ we have a steadfast hope that brings stability to our life?

Peter urged those to whom he wrote…
“(14) But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, (15) but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ALWAYS BEING PREPARED TO MAKE A DEFENSE TO ANYONE WHO ASKS YOU FOR A REASON FOR THE HOPE THAT IS IN YOU; (16) yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.” (1 Peter 3:14-16 ESV)

Is Christ truly the Lord of our life so that we can CONFIDENTLY offer a defense or “give an answer” (KJV & NIV) when asked about the hope we have in Him? Is there something in the way we live and respond to the world’s questions that they can be struck by a stability for life that can only be found in Christ and the truth of God’s Word? It was this kind of faith that the Hebrew writer urged his readers to develop as they pressed on in the face of persecution.

We read…
“(5) Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU.’ (6) So we can CONFIDENTLY SAY, ‘THE LORD IS MY HELPER; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:5-6 ESV)

Not “The Lord is my helper?”, but “THE LORD IS my helper!” Instead of a question mark in response to the world’s inquiries, let it be an exclamation mark of trust in God! That is the CONFIDENCE to be made evident in our life with the hope others will come to possess it as well. May its reality be CONFIDENTLY reflected by the tone of our actions and words.

Have a great day PUNCTUATED BY TRUSTING FAITH!
Carl

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Knowledgeable Love!

Love can be (and should be) a powerful motivator in life. However, one’s affections can be misdirected. (note 2 Timothy 3:2-5) There is a reason for love and it is always right to act in love, but love is to be exercised in reasonable ways.

Note Paul’s prayer for the church at Philippi.
“(9) And it is my prayer that your LOVE MAY ABOUND MORE AND MORE, WITH KNOWLEDGE AND ALL DISCERNMENT, (10) so that you may APPROVE WHAT IS EXCELLENT, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, (11) filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:9-11 ESV)

First note two words from the text. The word translated “knowledge” here is the Greek “epignosis” which is not just knowledge (gnosis), but rather “full knowledge” or “precise knowledge”. The word translated “discernment” is from the Greek “aisthesis” and refers to moral discernment in ethical matters and has been translated “judgment” and would therefore be a right judgment.

To possess a love that abounds like an overflowing cup or an ever flowing stream is good. Such is the picture of the love of God. Our love, however, must be properly directed and Paul connected the focus of love with a knowledge that aids in loving in a DISCERNING manner. The love God desires us to possess is not a blind love that makes no DISTINCTION between what is right and what is wrong, but a DISCERNING LOVE that sees as it ought and acts appropriately. When our love is based upon the knowledge of the truth of God we will be able to BEST DISCERN how to exercise it as we recognize what is right and “approve what is excellent.” To mature in a love like this will cause us to love God and His Will more and to also love others in more beneficial ways.

Paul exhorted the church at Rome to…
“LET LOVE BE GENUINE. ABHOR WHAT IS EVIL; HOLD FAST TO WHAT IS GOOD.” (Romans 12:9 ESV)

DISTINCTIONS must be made in accordance with the judgment God has declared in the Scriptures so that we can act in love by affectionately affirming what is right and lovingly directing away from that which is not. May we truly come to know more fully how to love as God would have us.

Have a great day LOVING IN WAYS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Carl

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Simple Math!

Perhaps mathematics is (or was) not one of your favorite subjects. Nevertheless there may be many ways in which we find ourselves using numbers every day. One of those ways may be the simple math of COUNTING things and for us to spend some time each day COUNTING what COUNTS is a good way to maintain a proper focus to encourage us on in life.

Sometimes when someone is trying to get another to see how something truly is, they will simply say, “Do the math.” Checking the numbers or how something adds up can help one recognize the reality. When it comes to our blessings in life that’s what we ought to do -- the math! Doing so will simply reveal how truly blessed we are in big as well as in small ways. It is far too easy to lose sight of how much a blessing even the simple things of life are. If we discount those blessings -- failing to recognize them for what they are -- we will never find contentment or satisfaction.

Paul stated…
“(6) Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, (7) for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. (8) But IF WE HAVE FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE WILL BE CONTENT.” (1 Timothy 6:6-8 ESV)

Are we maintaining that kind of perspective on life? This focus is being written in the middle of the night while I sit as a volunteer night monitor at a shelter for some men who are homeless. These men are very eager to follow the rules because they appreciate the meal they have eaten and that they have a warm place to sleep for the night. Do we truly appreciate those blessings or do we take them for granted? When we number the ways we have been blessed do we include such things? Even the simplest blessings COUNT. Perhaps if we had to go without such things for a while we would appreciate them more. It is some of our “wants” that should be discounted while we COUNT the needs for which we have been abundantly provided.

Let us do the math and COUNT our blessings. Taking the time to do so may just simply surprise us at how blessed we truly are. May God be praised for His abundant provision both physically and spiritually.

Have a great day APPRECIATING HOW GOD MAKES IT ALL ADD UP!
Carl

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Get The Picture?

There was a girl who gave her boyfriend her picture. On the back she had written this note: “My Dearest Love: I love you more every day and always will. I know you will feel the same way about me. All my love forever and ever.” Then at the very bottom she added, “P.S. When we break up I want this picture back.”

People can be so fickle. It is amazing how little words can mean to the one saying them. Shouldn’t they mean exactly what the words convey? Of course they should. Yet, because so many in this world seem to think words don’t always have to mean what they mean, in order to be taken seriously when they want to be they have to “swear to God” that they mean it.

Jesus placed it in very simple terms when He said,
“Let what you say be simply ‘YES’ OR ‘NO’; anything more than this comes from evil.” (Matthew 5:37 ESV)

James also conveyed the same focus when he wrote…
“But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “YES” BE YES and YOUR “NO” BE NO, so that you may not fall under condemnation.” (James 5:12 ESV)

The Reader’s Digest magazine has a section on “Picturesque Speech”, but that's not what we need. The honesty, sincerity, and commitment to convey a clear picture of what we mean is the thing needed most in this world.

May people come to know us as ones who sincerely mean what we say.

Have a great day CONVEYING THE INTENDED PICTURE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 10/06/1998. (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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OUR GOD!

How much time do we spend looking in the mirror? How much trust do we place in our own abilities? How much do we step out and do on our own without having spent some time in prayer? Perhaps the answer to those question will clue us in as to who is truly the recipient of our worship? Where does our confidence and TRUST rest?

Habakkuk recorded these words of God:
“Then they sweep by like the wind and go on, guilty men, WHOSE OWN MIGHT IS THEIR GOD!” (Habakkuk 1:11 ESV)

Arrogance! Pride! Self-exaltation! Self-glory! Such pushes self to the forefront and leaves God behind! In our country there are those who want the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” removed from our currency and other places where those words have been engraved for years. Not all who live in our country do TRUST IN GOD. Instead their TRUST is in the power of man and his politics. However, where has all that gotten us? Why is there much that is not getting better? Because God and His Way have been ignored!

The words of the psalmist still hold true…
“(10) The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. (11) THE COUNSEL OF THE LORD STANDS FOREVER, the plans of his heart to all generations. (12) BLESSED IS THE NATION WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!” (Psalm 33:10-12 ESV)

We may not be able to change the politics where we live since not everyone is willing to accept God and His Standards for life. However, by continuing to live with our complete TRUST IN HIM as we strive to live in accordance with His Will, we have the greatest potential to make life better for those around us. May the worship of our life remain centered in God as we keep our TRUST IN HIM, knowing that regardless of what the world does, His counsel still stands!

Have a great day MAINTAINING A GOD-CENTERED FOCUS!
Carl

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Truth Of Love!

We have been called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). That is the best way for truth to be expressed? But how is love itself best expressed? Is the speaking of loving words sufficient for the task?

Paul unequivocally stated…
“IF I GIVE away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, BUT HAVE NOT LOVE, I GAIN NOTHING.” (1 Corinthians 13:3 ESV)

It has been noted that one can give without loving (as Paul indicated), but it is impossible to love without GIVING! That is what love is all about; GIVING, not taking! Who has demonstrated that kind of love more than our Heavenly Father (John 3:16) and our Lord, Jesus Christ (Mark 10:45)? Do we possess such a love? Is it being made evident in our life?

John stated…
“WE LOVE BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED US.” (1 John 4:19 ESV)
Through the selfless demonstration of love, we reveal our appreciation for the love we have received. God got the ball rolling though His GIVING love. May we keep passing it on!

Have a great day OF SELFLESS SERVICE TO GOD’S GLORY!
Carl

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It's A Choice!

Moses was chosen to be God’s spokesman to Pharaoh and to the nation of Israel. As Pharaoh hardened his heart (Exodus 8:32), Israel was not always willing to LISTEN either (note Deuteronomy 1:43), but at times acted presumptuously on their own and experienced the consequences for having done so. God sent His spokesmen the prophets again and again, but their message was many times met by a refusal to LISTEN (Jeremiah 29:19) and consequences came. Though there are things we may not be able to keep from hearing, LISTENING is another matter. Hearing can just happen, but LISTENING is something we must choose to do. Regardless of how frustrated it might make us feel, those who don’t want to LISTEN won’t (i.e. John 9:27) and cannot be forced to do so.

John stated…
“(4) Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. (5) They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. (6) We are from God. WHOEVER KNOWS GOD LISTENS TO US; WHOEVER IS NOT FROM GOD DOES NOT LISTEN TO US. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” (1 John 4:4-6 ESV)

Who we are LISTENING to says something about us and it is important for us to give that serious consideration. Who will LISTEN to us when we talk about the truth of God and salvation in Christ tells us something about them and if there is a refusal to listen, the responsibility of accepting the consequences will be on them and not us. The fault on us would only be if we have not at least tried. (note Ezekiel 33:8-9) Therefore, when we speak, let us be sure what we are sharing is exactly what God has stated in His Word. It is ultimately to Him that all must turn a LISTENING ear. May we be good LISTENERS and seek to provide others with that which is most worth LISTENING to.

Have a great day LIVING ATTENTIVE TO GOD’S WAY AND WILL!
Carl

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To Back And Face!

Since we don’t have eyes in the back of our head we don’t always know what goes on behind our back. However, whatever it is may indicate those who truly are or are not our FRIENDS. The same is true with regard to what we are doing behind the backs of others. Are we the kind of FRIEND we want others to be to us?

Someone has said, “A friend is a person who goes around saying nice things about you behind your back.” [source: bulletin clipping]

Solomon stated…
“A FRIEND LOVES AT ALL TIMES, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17 ESV)

Solomon also noted…
“(6) FAITHFUL ARE THE WOUNDS OF A FRIEND; profuse are the kisses of an enemy. … (9) Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and THE SWEETNESS OF A FRIEND COMES FROM HIS EARNEST COUNSEL.” (Proverbs 27:6 & 9 ESV)

Taking these two passages together can help us gain the proper picture of a TRUE FRIEND. A TRUE FRIEND loves enough to speak well of us to others rather than involving themselves in gossip, but also cares enough to say to our face what we need to hear. They will not say behind our back what they would not say to our face, but some of what they would say to our face they would not repeat behind our back.

Though there is only one letter difference between “FRIEND” and “fiend” the two are a world apart. It is little things that can also make a world of difference in our relationships. A TRUE FRIEND knows what to speak when and where in order to bring benefit rather than tearing down. May we be blessed to have such friends and be such a blessing to others as well.

Have a great day REMEMBERING TO LOVE AT ALL TIMES!
Carl

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Foolish Anger!

“God, I’m going to ignore what you say, but if things don’t work out in life, you can bet I’m going to blame you.” People may not actually verbalize it in that way, but the sentiment is reflected in the life of some. They will accept the Scriptures that refer to the love of God and expect to be recipients of that love regardless of what they do. Then when following their own way gets them into trouble or produces adverse consequences they wonder why God’s love has failed.

Solomon stated…
“When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, HIS HEART RAGES AGAINST THE LORD.” (Proverbs 19:3 ESV)

The New Living Translation reads, “People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the LORD.” (NLT, © 1997)

It makes me think of a child who refuses the help of a parent in putting something together and then gets angry when it doesn’t turn out right. When correct directions are ignored why should there be an expectation for things to work out properly? This is no more true than with regard to spiritual matters and living life in accordance with the right standards.

Things not working out well is not always linked to wrong we have done. There are many variant causes of challenges and misfortune in this life. However, when it is our improper actions that have brought about the bad results, instead of being angry with God we should turn to Him in REPENTANT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT of our sin and seek His guidance in returning to the path He would have us take. Experiencing the failure of going our own way can be a good thing if it directs our focus away from our own will to that of God.

God has lovingly provided the best guidance for life possible, but He is not going to force any one to follow His Will. When that Will is disregarded, it is foolish to blame Him when the wrong choices have been made. Rather than getting angry, let us rejoice that the vast distinction between His Way and ours can be seen. Then let us allow a REPENTANT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT to accept His Will so that we may continue to receive the blessings associated with His Way.

Have a great day ADHERING TO GOD’S DIRECTIONS FOR LIFE!
Carl

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A Suggestion!

“The devil made me do it!” Have you ever heard someone express that? Have you used the words yourself? The expression seems to represent an effort to excuse oneself and therefore not have to accept personal responsibility for one’s actions. Someone has stated, “The devil can only suggest!” [bulletin clipping] Though some suggestions may be stronger or more persistent than others, they can only be as powerful as the desires within (James 1:14) that are tempted. Perhaps that is why suggestions acted upon are sometimes eventually perceived as one’s own ideas. That is the power in the devil’s deceptiveness because if the suggestion was truly perceived as his, would it not be more readily rejected?

James exhorted…
“(7) SUBMIT YOURSELVES THEREFORE TO GOD. RESIST THE DEVIL, and he will flee from you. (8) DRAW NEAR TO GOD, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (James 4:7-8 ESV)

We must become serious with regard to continually SUBMITTING TO GOD as we also strive to resist the deceptive suggestions of the devil. It is important to remain on guard against the devil’s deceiving and scheming (Ephesians 6:11) by remaining NEAR TO GOD and accepting what He offers to equip us to stand strong in this spiritual struggle. It is a battle. The terms “submit” and “resist” used by James have been noted as having originally been Greek military terms. According to Strong’s Lexicon, the word translated “submit” is a “Greek military term meaning ‘to arrange [troop divisions] in a military fashion under the command of a leader.’ In non-military use, it was ‘a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating, assuming responsibility, and carrying a burden.’” [Strong’s, © 1996] To “resist” the devil would be to arrange ourselves against this enemy.

As we continue SUBMITTING TO GOD we will be less and less susceptible to giving in to the suggestions of the devil. May we earnestly seek to keep the thoughts and actions of our life ARRANGED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF GOD. This is the greatest safeguard in resisting the efforts of the devil to tempt and lead us astray.

Have a great day MARCHING ON UNDER GOD’S COMMAND!
Carl

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Bridging The Gap!

As we consider the work of the church we ought to recognize the benefit in utilizing all resources available. This, of course, must be done with the truth and Will of God in mind. In the age of youth there is glory to behold. Youth recognizing what they have to offer in life can experience the great joy of bringing glory and praise to God. However, the challenge is to see that capacity while at the same time not shutting out what another age has to offer.

In the age of adulthood, there is much splendor to also be acknowledged with the willingness to allow God to do His work in and through it. However, that too can be focused on to the point that those who are younger are slighted and not given the opportunity to be utilized to their fullest potential.

In bridging the gap between young and old within the Body of Christ we must guard against viewing “senior saints” as the church of yesterday and the “youth” as the church of tomorrow! What about the church of today? Together that is what they (we) all are! What we must do is seek to find out how the God glorifying abilities and characteristics of youth and those of the older generation can benefit and complement each other while being used in service to God’s glory.

Solomon stated…
“The GLORY OF YOUNG MEN IS THEIR STRENGTH, but the SPLENDOR OF OLD MEN IS THEIR GRAY HAIR.” (Proverbs 20:29 ESV)

The New Living Translations reads, “The glory of the young is their STRENGTH; the gray hair of EXPERIENCE is the splendor of the old.” [NLT, © 1997, Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House.]

The high energy and enthusiasm of youth (harnessed within the framework of the truth of God) dare not be overlooked. Young people ought to recognize the volume of service the STRENGTH of youth is able to offer in the Name of the Lord. However, this must be done while at the same time recognizing the tremendous benefit of tapping into the great WISDOM of the more seasoned saints within the Body of Christ. Though there are many new things today, those who have been around awhile still have more insight and understanding than youth may realize. (On the other hand I have also seen how youth sometimes have more insight than that for which credit is given.) There are things the aged have experienced that need not have to be experienced by youth so that the time can be spent experiencing that which truly benefits and brings joy rather than regret to life.

Developing a respectful (and that goes both ways) and loving bond between young and old will help create an atmosphere within the church that stands to benefit all. As we serve together -- bringing the WISDOM of age and the STRENGTH of youth together -- there is much that can be accomplished to the glory of God and the growth of the Body of Christ, His church. May we allow genuine love and respect to bridge the gap so that there be no hindrance to God doing His great work in and through us.

Have a great day LIVING AND WORKING AS THE ONE BODY OF CHRIST!
Carl

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Where Ya From?

Sometimes people will inquire as to where we are from? Perhaps our accent, the phrases and words we use, or some other aspect of the way we speak or behave gives an indication that we are from some other part of the country or even some other part of the world. Then there are situations when someone might be asked, “What planet are you from?” This question is usually asked after either hearing some outlandish idea being expressed or seeing some strange behavior taking place. Do we seem strange to others? Do our actions indicate we are from somewhere else?

After encouraging his readers about the patience of God and His desire for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9), Peter went on to warn regarding the coming judgment of God upon the earth. (2 Peter 3:10) This “day of the Lord” must be recognized as a time of reckoning and since it is not known when that will be there is the necessity of living prepared.

Peter then exhorted…
“(11) Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, WHAT SORT OF PEOPLE OUGHT YOU TO BE IN LIVES OF HOLINESS AND GODLINESS, (12) waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! (13) But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 3:11-13 ESV)

Because of all this, ‘WHAT SORT OF PEOPLE OUGHT YOU TO BE?” The word Peter used translated “WHAT SORT” is “potapous” from “potapos”. The primary use of this Greek word was in reference to what country, race, or tribe one was from. The word is secondarily used with reference to the kind, sort, or manner of person one might be. When we think of our ORIGIN being connected with God, do we live in a way that others might note us as being from somewhere other than this world? Are we living enough unlike this world that our TRUE CITIZENSHIP -- that which is in Heaven (Philippians 3:20) -- can begin to be noticed? Continually striving to live “lives of holiness and godliness” will reveal we have a life connection that transcends this realm. May that DIVINE ORIGIN be evident so that the focus of others may also be drawn Heavenward.

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

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A Magic Box?

There was a little boy who was making his very first visit to the big city. Among the many new sights he encountered, it was the elevator he found the most intriguing. He stood in front of one for several minutes and marveled as he watched an old lady, slow and wrinkled, carefully step in and then disappear as the light flashed and the door slid shut. A minute later he was amazed to see the same door open and out step a very pretty, energetic young lady. As he turned to leave, he was overheard saying, “I’m going to tell grandpa to bring grandma here.”

Life is full of real CHANGES that are both wonderful and beautiful. We see them in God’s world of nature. We see them in the animal kingdom. We also see them in the lives of people TRANSFORMED by the touch of God’s grace. But there is an even more glorious CHANGE yet to come.

To the church at Corinth Paul wrote…
“(52) in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be RAISED IMPERISHABLE, and WE SHALL BE CHANGED. (53) For this perishable body must put on the IMPERISHABLE, and this mortal body must put on IMMORTALITY. (54) When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’” (1 Corinthians 15:52-54 ESV)

No lights. No sliding door. No “magic box.” It will just happen. What a CHANGE that will be. Who could describe it? Paul couldn’t. He could only encourage us that it will happen. A MARVELOUS TRANSFORMATION! The CHANGES God brings and will bring about, by His power, are based on reality we can count on!

Have a great day ALLOWING GOD TO WORK HIS CHANGES IN YOUR LIFE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 09/29/1998. Edited some with passage changed to ESV]

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Hand On The Cradle!

Relaxation. Peaceful rest. It is good for the body, the mind, and even the spirit. It plays a role in the renewal process. However, we can leave ourselves in a position of getting too much of this good thing -- especially in a spiritual sense -- if that is where we remain! It is far too easy for us to be lulled into complacency and then inactivity. Someone has stated, “The devil is never too busy to rock the cradle of a sleeping saint.” [source: “sentence sermons”] In Matthew thirteen, Jesus told a parable illustrating the sowing of the devil going on while the sowers of the good seed slept. (note Matthew 13:24-25, 38-39) We need to remain AWAKE to the fact the devil continues at his work!

The church at Sardis received the following warning.
“(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)

Has our consciousness been lulled to the point we have lost a sense of diligence with regard to watchfulness for our own lives as well as having lost a sense of urgency with regard to the souls of others? Can the Lord look at us and also declare, “I have not found your works complete”? Like those at Sardis, do we also need the admonishment to WAKE UP? We can become so comfortable with the way things are going in this world that we lose our concern for upholding righteousness and the salvation of others.

Paul exhorted…
“‘AWAKE, O SLEEPER, AND ARISE FROM THE DEAD, AND CHRIST WILL SHINE ON YOU.’” (Ephesians 5:14b ESV)

In his Roman letter we also read…
“(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)

It may be later than we think! Let us not be lulled to sleep while the devil continues his work of drawing souls away from God. Rather, let us exercise due diligence in the work God has called us to. Our own soul and the souls of others are at stake and “salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.” May we remain WIDE AWAKE to these truths!

Have a great day ALERT AND ACTIVE IN THE WORK OF GOD!
Carl

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Unmoved For Pressing On!

As Paul was giving his farewell address to the Ephesian elders, though he did not know everything he would face upon arriving in Jerusalem, the Holy Spirit had revealed to him that imprisonment and afflictions awaited him there. (Acts 20:22-23) Nevertheless he was compelled by the Spirit to go and go he would.

Paul expressed his resolve in these words:
“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, IF ONLY I MAY FINISH MY COURSE AND THE MINISTRY THAT I RECEIVED from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24 ESV)

Both the King James and New King James Versions begin this verse with the expression, “But NONE OF THESE THINGS MOVE ME.” Like our Lord Jesus Christ Who set His own will of the flesh aside in the garden, accepting the Will of the Father and going all the way with the cross on our behalf, so Paul did not opt out and take the easy road. He could not even be persuaded by others to change his plans. (Acts 21:14) Paul would not allow the possibility of imprisonment or even death (Acts 21:13) to discourage him from pressing on in the work of testifying “to the gospel of the grace of God.” Because of this resolve Paul had opportunity to reach people -- including some in Caesar’s household (Philippians 4:22) -- he might not have otherwise.

The New Living Translation reads…
“But MY LIFE IS WORTH NOTHING UNLESS I USE IT FOR DOING THE WORK ASSIGNED ME by the Lord Jesus -- the work of telling others the Good News about God’s wonderful kindness and love.” [NLT © 1997, Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House]

What is it about our life that makes it truly worth living? Are we POWERFULLY COMPELLED to press on because we also recognize the high calling we have received? There are many things that can cause us to move off course or stop altogether: criticism, defeat, depression, discouragement, fear, becoming tired and weary with the day-to-day stuff, etc. Paul was focused to FINISH THE COURSE (or “complete the race”), refusing to allow any of these things to move him from doing so. May we follow His example as he followed the example of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1) in this regard.

Have a great day MOVED BY CHRIST’S LOVE TO SERVE HIS WILL!
Carl

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Resist Giving In!

Peer pressure can be very strong, but it is nothing new. It is not unique to your generation or mine. It is not only experienced during the years of youth, but in adulthood as well. It is a force that must always be guarded against.

Note an exhortation from Peter’s first letter.
“(3) The time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. (4) With respect to this THEY ARE SURPRISED WHEN YOU DO NOT JOIN THEM in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; (5) but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.” (1 Peter 4:3-5 ESV)

Most of the things Peter listed are probably clear, but let me define “debauchery” before we go further. “Debauchery” is defined as “extreme indulgence in sensuality.” [source: Webster’s Dictionary, tenth edition] In Peter’s statement in verse four he was simply referring back to his list in verse three.

Those among whom Peter’s readers were living were surprised when they did NOT JOIN IN (or return to) these activities and because of that these Christians were criticized. How many times have we experienced the same reaction when we have REFUSED TO BE INVOLVED in certain activities. Not only might we encounter surprise at our UNWILLINGNESS TO GO ALONG with the crowd, but it may also cause these people to begin to ridicule and bad mouth us.

The pressure to conform can be strong and being spoken against is never pleasant. What should be done when such pressure is experienced? Peter’s statement in verse five suggests looking beyond the moment to the fact a time of accountability is coming. We must remember that those who pressure us to go the way of the world will ultimately be held accountable for their choices just as we will for ours. With our eternal future in mind let us therefore continue to make the right choices now, no matter how challenging it might be.

Remember Paul’s plea to the church at Rome.
“Do NOT BE CONFORMED TO THIS WORLD, but BE TRANSFORMED BY THE RENEWAL OF YOUR MIND, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2 ESV)

In J.B. Phillips’ translation, this verse begins “DON’T LET THE WORLD AROUND YOU SQUEEZE YOU INTO ITS OWN MOLD….” [The New Testament in Modern English, J. B. Phillips, © 1958] Though the pressure of peers tries, let us resist as we allow the renewing of our minds according to the truth of God to transform our lives from the inside out. REFUSE TO ALLOW the world’s judgment to shift our focus away from the judgment God has already given regarding right and wrong. Living according to His judgment now frees us from fear of His judgment to come. May our continuing pursuit be that of living in accordance with the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God!

Have a great day STANDING STRONG WITH GOD’S STABLE STANDARD!
Carl

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Set For A Good Day!

Days don’t always go as we would like or as we may have planned. Therefore as we look back on life we take note of good days and bad. However, good days and bad days don’t always become such because of what others have done. We must consider carefully what kind of ACTIONS AND WORDS WE OURSELVES ARE SOWING as we go about our daily activities.

As Peter exhorted his readers against retaliation and encouraged them toward unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, tender hearts, and humble minds (1 Peter 3:8-9), he quoted Psalm 34:12-16. The first portion of that quotation reads…

“(10) For ‘Whoever desires to love life and SEE GOOD DAYS, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; (11) let him turn away from evil and DO GOOD; let him seek peace and pursue it.’” (1 Peter 3:10-11 ESV)

Have we ever had one of those days when it seemed every time we turned around we were putting our foot in our mouth or found ourselves saying something we regretted? The kind of words we sow through the day will affect what we reap and how we feel about the day. If we want good responses we must be prepared to SOW GOOD WORDS. If we want to receive good we must be willing to DO GOOD regardless of what others might be doing.

Let us continually bear in mind how the GOOD ACTIONS AND WORDS SOWN here and there throughout each day create the potential for good days to be looked back upon without regret. Even if not all goes well, if we have been SOWING GOOD, we can still feel good about the ACTIONS AND WORDS we were responsible for bringing into the day.

Have a great day HELPING BRING GOODNESS TO LIFE!
Carl

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Knee Problems!

The advancements of modern medicine and technology are amazing. Some surgeries that were once highly invasive or complicated have become routine and less invasive. I’ve known people who have had arthroscopic surgery on their knees as well as complete knee replacement. The results of these procedures have been the elimination of joint pain and regained mobility that increased the ability to enjoy life. Sometimes a little extra exercise can also help keep the knee joints working properly.

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)

Arms hanging limp to the sides and weak knees! A picture of being ready to give up in the sight of challenges. This is the greater “knee problem” of which we need to be aware that also has the capacity to decrease our ability to enjoy life as God would have us. Where do we look when our knees begin to KNOCK IN FEAR? What is the remedy when our knees feel WEAK AND WOBBLY, making it difficult to stand strong when we face adverse situations? What can be done with our knees then? It is not the visual inspection of arthroscopic surgery that will help. Nor is it that the knees need to be replaced. It is in dropping to knees in the EXERCISE OF FAITH before God that we can find strength.

As Paul urged the church at Ephesus not to lose heart over the things he was suffering (Ephesians 3:13) as a minister of the Gospel, he went on to state…

“(14) For this reason I BOW MY KNEES BEFORE THE FATHER, (15) from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, (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 3:14-19 ESV)

In all things (note Philippians 4:6) let our knees be EXERCISED IN THE FAITH of being on them in prayer for ourselves and for others as well. This is where we need to start when the “knee problems” begin to be experienced. By continually EXERCISING THE PRAYER OF FAITH we will be ready to move from kneeling to standing firm and enduring strong in the way of righteousness.

Have a great day STANDING STRONG IN THE WAY AND WILL OF THE LORD!
Carl

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Children Behave!

“Why can’t you kids just behave!” How many of us have ever experienced hearing such words from our parents as we struggled with getting along with our siblings. Children can become quite skilled at irritating each other for really no good reason at all; harassing and teasing each other to no end. They can fuss over the littlest things such as “Jimmy is looking at me.” or “Sally’s hand is on my side of the car seat.” It is sad when such temperament continues to be shared by siblings even into adulthood. I have seen this sort of conflict raise its ugly head during times when families really needed to draw together -- such as in the case of a death in a family -- even to the point that two separate memorial services had to be planned. How sad! How tragic! How childish!

Is our Heavenly Father also not grieved when His children will not get along? Can we not imagine His words, “Why can’t you kids just behave!”?

Writing to the church at Ephesus, Paul exhorted…
“(4:31) Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. (4:32) BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (5:1) Therefore be imitators of God, AS BELOVED CHILDREN. (5:2) AND WALK IN LOVE, AS CHRIST LOVED US and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 4:31 - 5:2 ESV)

LOVE is to mark our relationship together as disciples of Jesus (John 13:35) and “BELOVED CHILDREN” of God. (note also 1 John 4:20) We are family and ought to follow the example of Jesus, the Son of God and our Elder Brother in the family. (Hebrews 2:11 & 17) May we continually seek to please the Father through our family life together.

Have a great day BEHAVING AS A CHILD OF GOD!
Carl

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To Know And Be Known!

Someone has said, “God knows us better than we know ourselves and He loves us better too.” [source: calendar quote] Oh, to BE KNOWN and LOVED in such a way. How much do we know it? How are we allowing it to impact the way we live?

In His omniscient power, God knows all about us. Our whole being is fully exposed before His all seeing eye. (Hebrews 4:13) As we seek to live in a right relationship with Him that ought to be knowledge that brings comfort rather than fear. For such to be the case would be to know as we ought.

In Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth we read…
“(1) Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that ‘all of us possess knowledge.’ This ‘knowledge’ puffs up, but LOVE BUILDS UP. (2) If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. (3) But if anyone LOVES GOD, he is KNOWN BY GOD.” (1 Corinthians 8:1-3 ESV)

With knowledge comes such a challenge! One of the things that challenged the unity within the church at Corinth was a lack of consideration for where others were in their spiritual growth and understanding. Along with knowledge we must also possess a spirit of humility and patience toward others. After all, we did not come to know all we know overnight. Also, even what we do know, perhaps we still do not know it as we ought.

Does what we know cause us to LOVE GOD more? If we are going to be PUFFED UP by knowledge, let it be with regard to knowing HOW MUCH LOVE God has for us (and others) and His mindfulness of every aspect of our life. Such acknowledgment ought to encourage us to press on in life regardless of trials faced and compel us to continually seek to please Him. May the LOVE GOD HAS FOR US go to our head and our heart so that we will always appropriately respond to Him, His Will, and to others.

Have a great day BUILT UP TO BUILD UP IN LOVE!
Carl

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Name Brand!

“Name Brand” products seem to have a higher price tag than generics. Often generic brands are of equal value and so why not save some money? Our family enjoys many off brand foods because they seem to taste just as good, though there are a few “Name Brands” we may still buy either when on sale or because we do prefer them. I have been happy to have found a generic allergy medication because it has saved plenty of money compared to the prescription brand I used to get. We don’t buy a lot of “Name Brand” clothing because the lesser priced clothing seems to wear just fine. When it comes to these sorts of things, generics may be fine. However, there are other times when the enduring quality we need hinges on it being the REAL THING; the “Name Brand” we can be certain will LIVE UP TO ITS NAME! This should be recognized as no more true than when it comes to religion. We had best only accept “Name Brand” CHRISTIANITY because anything else will either be missing some ingredients or possess some additives.

“Name Brand” CHRISTIANITY does come at a higher price. First of all, it cost the blood of Jesus. (Acts 20:28) Secondly, it costs us the surrendering of our life to follow Him. (Matthew 16:24-26) It was at Antioch that the followers of Jesus were first called CHRISTIANS because their association with CHRIST was clearly seen. (Acts 11:26) Later we read of the Bereans who examined the Scriptures daily to make sure what they were being taught was REALLY the truth. (Acts 17:11)

As Paul began his letter to the church at Galatia, he admonished…
“(6) I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are TURNING TO A DIFFERENT GOSPEL -- (7) NOT THAT THERE IS ANOTHER ONE, but there are some who trouble you and want to DISTORT THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST. (8) But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. (9) As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9 ESV)

Regardless of the trust they may have had in Paul, if he changed the message it was not to be accepted. Even an angel from heaven had no right to change the message. Only the REAL THING associated with CHRIST was to be accepted.

The message of Jesus and the way in which we are to live as CHRISTIANS is to be accepted as it has been recorded in the Scriptures. God’s Word must always be viewed as much more than suggestions or merely principles from which to pick and choose. The authority of God is to be acknowledged as being behind it (2 Timothy 3:16-17) and therefore we can depend on its wholesomeness for all of life. Accepting it as it is (1 Corinthians 4:6) will make certain our lives are being properly nourished and clothed.

Regardless of what we face in life, let us glorify God as we wear the name CHRISTIAN (1 Peter 4:16) because it is only in the Name of JESUS CHRIST that salvation can be found! (Acts 4:11-12) Anything else will prove to be no bargain at all! May we be sure to settle for nothing less than life surrendered to Jesus and the truth of the Word as we live simply as CHRISTIANS wholeheartedly following in the Way of CHRIST!

Have a great day HAVING ACCEPTED ONLY THE REAL THING!
Carl

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