The Battle For Booty!

In Paul’s letter to the church at Colossae, he warned…
“See to it that no one takes you CAPTIVE BY PHILOSOPHY AND EMPTY DECEIT, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8 ESV)

The Greek word translated “CAPTIVE” is “sulagogon” from “sulagogeo”, which means “to carry off as spoil” or “lead captive” (“sule”, spoil, and “ago”, to lead). [source: “Vine’s Exp. Dict. Of N.T. Words”] Paul’s warning was to watch out for those who would use philosophy and deception to gain a victory over them, carrying them away as the spoils (or booty) of war in the battle for their minds and lives. Even today, with all the ideologies and teachings proclaimed to be truth, the battle rages on.

Some don’t care what they teach as long as they can gain a following. Such are those who are ready to teach what the masses want to hear (i.e. 2 Timothy 4:3) rather than the truth that is needed. The more time we spend studying God’s Word, the more easily we will be able to distinguish between truth and falsehood.

As Paul mentioned this battle in his second letter to the church at Corinth we read…
“(4) For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE POWER to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments (5) and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE TO OBEY CHRIST, (6) being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.” (2 Corinthians 10:4-5 ESV)

Here, the Greek word used by Paul that is translated “CAPTIVE” is “aichmalotizo” which means to either take captive or bring under the control of another. [source: “Vine’s Exp. Dict. Of N.T. Words”] Vine’s also states that this word is practically synonymous with “aichmaloteuo” which signifies either to be a prisoner of war or to be made a prisoner of war.

To be taken as “spoil” by worldly philosophies will spoil our chances of the hope of eternal life. However, to have our minds led away “CAPTIVE to obey Christ” will mean for us to be blessed as His booty to be held secure for eternity. May the Lord gain the victory in the battle for our mind and life.

Have a great day HELD CAPTIVE BY CHRIST!
Carl

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Compassionate Remembrance!

We should be encouraged as we recognize Christian growth is taking place in our life, but there is also the need to be careful of what it does to our attitude. Someone has said, “The holier-than-thou attitude may be due to virtue, but it is usually caused by a poor memory.” [source: sentence sermons] We should always strive to live virtuous lives. However, we need to also be honest about where we’ve been as well as the fact we still have our struggles and maturity in Christ is an ongoing process.

Paul stated the reality for us all when he wrote…
“for ALL HAVE SINNED AND FALL SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD,” (Romans 3:23 ESV)

Everyone of us is in need of forgiveness and the power of the blood of Jesus to take care of our sins. Paul was making it clear to his readers that whether they be Jew or Gentile they were all in the same boat. Forgetting we have been cleansed from former sins is a blindness or nearsightedness (2 Peter 1:9) that often takes brotherly kindness out of the equation. Having accepted the forgiveness of God and moved repentantly from those sins is one of the ways we become better suited for encouraging others to do the same. It is the remembrance of where we have been that aids in keeping us HUMBLE as well as causing us to exercise some COMPASSION and PATIENCE as we try to encourage and exhort others toward godly living.

Just as all people do not grow physically at the same rate, so it is true spiritually. However growth should be encouraged and expected. Therefore, “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) let us encourage others toward growing up in Christ. Being COMPASSIONATE and MERCIFUL with others reveals our own appreciation for having received those gifts from God. Rather than tearing down, let us strive to build others up toward godly living.

Have a great day GROWING AND ENCOURAGING OTHERS TOWARD HOLINESS!
Carl

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Spiritual Symmetry!

Winter is not even over yet and the grass needs mowing. It seems like our weather never got cold enough to stunt the growth this year. I have already heard neighbors mowing their lawns and know I must soon get out our mower and do the same. Though I have never gone crazy over fertilizing the yard, I do like it to look nice. Therefore, when I mow, my preference is for the mowing pattern to have some symmetry to it. I generally first mow a couple paths around the edge of the lawn and then mow a straight line across the yard from which to guide me in mowing the rest of the yard. In order to do that I make a mowing path by focusing STRAIGHT AHEAD toward a specific point on the other side of the lawn. This allows for the finished lawn to be left in a nice symmetrical pattern of straight lines. If I were to look back I would end up going off to one side or another and the symmetry would be lost to crooked and wayward lines.

When some came to Jesus stating their desire to follow Him (Luke 9:57-62), we read…
“Jesus said to him, ‘NO ONE WHO PUTS HIS HAND TO THE PLOW AND LOOKS BACK IS FIT FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD.’” (Luke 9:62 ESV)

In order for one plowing a field to make straight furrows in which to plant the seed, the EYES MUST REMAIN STRAIGHT AHEAD. Otherwise -- just like the illustration with my mowing -- the rows will angle off to one side or the other. The one with the hand to the plow must remain focused on the task because being sidetracked by other things would hamper the process.

The same is true as we come into Christ’s kingdom. There can be great danger in looking back! In the new relationship with Christ we can LOOK AHEAD toward other new relationships within His Body (the church). (note Matthew 12:50 and 19:29) However, if we focus back on some of the relationships we had before, it is possible to be drawn back to them and therefore away from Christ. If we can help bring those others to Christ, that is good. However, we must guard against desiring again the improper things that might have been associated with those relationships of the past. THE FOCUS MUST REMAIN STRAIGHT AHEAD.

There are also types of recreation or ways in which time was spent or various other things associated with the past life that could be dangerous to look back toward. These could serve to distract us from our forward motion in Christ by giving opportunity to rekindle old desires that draw us back toward the manner in which we once lived. When we say “yes” to Christ it also means saying “no” to some other relationships and activities. If we are not willing to do so, then we are not “fit for the kingdom of God.”

Solomon exhorted…
“(25) Let your eyes LOOK DIRECTLY FORWARD, and YOUR GAZE BE STRAIGHT BEFORE YOU. (26) Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. (27) DO NOT SWERVE TO THE RIGHT OR TO THE LEFT; turn your foot away from evil.” (Proverbs 4:25-27 ESV)

May we keep our FOCUS STRAIGHT AHEAD toward God so that we can continue developing a symmetry of life that is neither to the left or the right, but rather kept in a straight line with the Will of God. It is a sameness with Him we are being called toward.

Have a great day FOCUSING ONWARD AND UPWARD IN CHRIST!
Carl

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Being Driven!

Walking yesterday morning I enjoyed watching the waves splashing against the shore, but the strong wind gave me a bit of a workout as I walked against it. There were times the wind was with me and other times the wind was against me, but there was a SPECIFIC COURSE of which I was determined to walk. As I walked against the wind and thought about sailing ships on the water, the words of an old poem attributed to Ella Wheeler Wilcox (U.S. poet and writer, 1850-1919) began running through my mind.

“One ship drives east and other drives west by the same winds that blow.
It’s the set of the sails and not the gales that determines the way they go.”

Sailing vessels are equipped with rudder and sails and the pilot and crew develop the skill to STAY THE COURSE even when the winds might be against them. To me it is an amazing science of positioning the sails and tacking that makes it possible to continue moving in the right direction.

This is often the picture of life. There are times when the “winds of thought” blow against us, making it difficult to keep pressing on. Do we allow those winds to determine OUR COURSE or are we learning to navigate the direction we ought to remain going? In order for us to remain ON COURSE we must allow ourselves to be equipped with what God has provided.

Paul, writing to the church at Ephesus, stated…
“(11) And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, (12) TO EQUIP THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF MINISTRY, for building up the body of Christ, (13) until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, (14) SO THAT WE MAY NO LONGER BE CHILDREN, TOSSED TO AND FRO BY THE WAVES AND CARRIED ABOUT BY EVERY WIND OF DOCTRINE, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. (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 4:11-16 ESV)

If we allow the winds of the thoughts of men to drive our lives we will find ourselves going this way and that and who knows what the destination might be. Let us not allow ourselves to be driven by the winds of the doctrines of men, but rather be driven by the truth God has brought through His chosen messengers and has preserved in the pages of Scripture. Allowing the truth of God to fill the sails of our life, we will be able to remain on the COURSE He has set before us and we can be assured of ultimately arriving in the safe harbor of His heavenly home.

Have a great day FOLLOWING THE COMPASS BEARING TOWARD GOD!
Carl

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Evidence In The Fruit!

As John was baptizing and preparing the way for the beginning of Christ’s ministry, many were coming out to him to hear his preaching and to be baptized. However, John made it clear that this baptism was more than just getting wet as they were being immersed in water. It was a “baptism of repentance” he was proclaiming. (Luke 3:3) Among those coming were some of the leaders (Matthew 3:7) who placed their pride and salvation on their heritage rather than on living in a right relationship with God. With Christ’s coming was the change of the old order for the new (Matthew 5:17; Romans 10:4; Hebrews 7:11-12) and that meant CHANGED LIVES as well.

John exhorted…
“BEAR FRUITS IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. (9) Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not BEAR GOOD FRUIT is cut down and thrown into the fire.’” (Luke 3:8-9 ESV)

John clearly pointed to the need for CHANGED LIVES! Some who understood this need asked John what they needed to do and John pointed them (among whom were tax collectors and soldiers) toward honest and righteous living. (note Luke 3:10-14) Should it be any surprise that Peter pointed toward the same need for CHANGE as the Lord’s church began?

To those who were ready to acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus, we read…
“And Peter said to them, ‘REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED every one of you IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF YOUR SINS, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’” (Acts 2:38 ESV)

Coming to Christ and being united with Him in baptism means A CHANGE has come to the life. Those in Christ have become “a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV) Repentance is necessary. Immersion in baptism should be accompanied by a life immersed in the ongoing CHANGE of turning more and more toward God and submission to His Will.

It is not always possible to make restitution for the sins of the past. Some wrongs cannot be righted. Remember these Peter spoke to had been charged with sending Jesus to the cross. (Acts 2:23 & 36) We can only go from where we are right now. However, that moving on must be in the spirit of REPENTANCE and that spirit will be made evident by the CHANGED FRUIT of our life. May the difference Jesus has made in our life become more and more evident to those around so that they too may desire to have Him make the difference in them.

Have a great day PRESSING ON IN THE NEWNESS OF CHRIST!
Carl

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A Match Made Where?

Last weekend -- as we were visiting our oldest son and his family in Oregon -- he bought a bag of chips he wanted me to try. It was a brand of chips he liked, however the particular flavor he wanted me to taste was one he had once picked up by accident. I was immediately struck not only by the flavor mentioned on the bag, but also by the statement regarding the combination. The flavor was “Cheddar Beer” and the statement below this large print was “A Match Made In Heaven.” Now, you see why it caught my attention. I understand that any alcohol from the “beer” would have been cooked out in the process of making the chips and cheddar is one of my favorite cheeses. However, after trying one chip I immediately declared it was definitely not a HEAVENLY taste.

Oh, the claims of man! So many things that are put together and declared to be HEAVENLY that in reality are not. Such is the deception of the devil with regard to various things in life. If he can get us to take a taste, it is easier to convince us that something that tastes good (or brings pleasure) couldn’t possibly be bad for us. It is possible to even become convinced God is pleased with it since therein we might find some enjoyment.

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

Are we learning to discern the taste of what truly is HEAVENLY from that which is really of this world? As we mature, those distinctions become easier to discern. (note Hebrews 5:14) Let us be careful we do not buy into the hype and propaganda of the devil and this world.

The Hebrew writer warned…
“(4) For it is impossible to restore again to repentance those who have once been enlightened, who have TASTED THE HEAVENLY GIFT, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, (5) and have TASTED THE GOODNESS OF THE WORD OF GOD and the powers of the age to come, (6) if they then fall away, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.” (Hebrews 6:4-6 ESV)

Having tasted the HEAVENLY gift and the goodness of God’s Word, let the craving remain there. May we turn from the husks of the world and maintain a taste for the real food of HEAVEN; Jesus -- the “true bread of heaven” (John 6:32) and “bread of life” (John 6:35) -- and all that is in association with Him. Only then will we be properly nourished and sustained for now and eternity.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A TASTE FOR THE REAL THING!
Carl

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Self Is In The Equation!

If you have ever flown on an airline you know how they always go over some important rules and procedures good to know in the case of an emergency or problem encountered in flight. Among those mentioned, one relates to what to do in the case of a drop in cabin pressure. Should such an event occur and the oxygen masks drop down from the ceiling, the instructions generally go something like this: “If oxygen masks are deployed, place oxygen mask on self first and then assist others.” Perhaps that sounds a bit selfish; looking out for one’s own self first. The natural inclination of most parents would be to get the masks first on their children. However, if one becomes UNCONSCIOUS themselves, how would it be possible to help another? Therefore we can understand the reasoning behind the instruction.

It is true we must guard against selfishness. It is far too easy to get so caught up in our own lives that we forget about the cares and desires of others. (note Philippians 2:3-4) Still, there are things about ourselves we must be CONSCIOUS of in order to be better able to help others.

Jesus taught…
“(3) Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? (4) Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? (5) You hypocrite, FIRST TAKE THE LOG OUT OF YOUR OWN EYE, and THEN YOU WILL SEE CLEARLY TO TAKE THE SPECK OUT OF YOUR BROTHER’S EYE.” (Matthew 7:3-5 ESV)

Jesus didn’t say to not help. It is good to have a desire to help others. It is that there is something else we must be CONSCIOUS of first. We must recognize what needs to be dealt with in our own life too. If we are UNCONSCIOUS of the things in our own life needing attention, how can we see clearly to help another? On the other hand, being CONSCIOUS of and working to deal with the challenges in our own life will aid us in exercising more humility and mercy as we help with the challenges of others. Being properly “oxygenated” spiritually ourselves will provide us with a clearer focus to assist those around us. May we not overlook this need for self as we interact with others.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A CLEAR MIND FOR CHRISTIAN SERVICE!
Carl

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Careful For What We Ask!

Sometimes we may look at situations in life and think about what we would rather have. However, as we ponder what we think might be better we need to be careful what we ask for because we just might get it. In the process it is also possible to miss out on THE GREATER BLESSING GOD HAS IN MIND for us. This is exactly what Israel did as they approached the land God promised to give them.

Twelve men were sent in to take a look at the land. (Numbers 13) All agreed it was a land of plenty, but it was the size of the enemy that created the concern. Comparing themselves to the people of the land, they felt like grasshoppers. (Numbers 13:33) If victory had merely depended on themselves that would have been one thing, but they forgot how small the enemy was compared to the God of Israel Who had already done many mighty works in delivering them from Egyptian bondage and adequately providing for them all along the way. In faith, Caleb and Joshua tried to encourage the people that they were able because GOD WAS WITH THEM (Numbers 13:30; 14:6-9), but they would not listen.

For what did the people wish?
“(1) Then all the congregation raised a loud cry, and the people wept that night. (2) And all the people of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron. The whole congregation said to them, “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! OR WOULD THAT WE HAD DIED IN THIS WILDERNESS!” (Numbers 14:1-2 ESV)

This was not the first time the people had spoken of it having been better to have stayed in Egypt. In fact, that cry began quite early in the journey. (i.e. Exodus 14:10-12; 16:2-3, etc.) All along the way God had to put up with their whining and complaining. Unfortunately this time God was going to grant their request.

We read…
“(26) And the Lord spoke to Moses and to Aaron, saying, (27) “How long shall this wicked congregation grumble against me? I have heard the grumblings of the people of Israel, which they grumble against me. (28) Say to them, ‘As I live, declares the Lord, WHAT YOU HAVE SAID IN MY HEARING I WILL DO TO YOU: (29) YOUR DEAD BODIES SHALL FALL IN THIS WILDERNESS, and of all your number, listed in the census from twenty years old and upward, who have grumbled against me, (30) not one shall come into the land where I swore that I would make you dwell, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun. (31) But your little ones, who you said would become a prey, I will bring in, and THEY SHALL KNOW THE LAND THAT YOU HAVE REJECTED. (32) BUT AS FOR YOU, YOUR DEAD BODIES SHALL FALL IN THIS WILDERNESS.’”” (Numbers 14:26-32 ESV)

When we are following in the way God leads, each step may not appear as we would like. Nevertheless, we need to TRUST GOD that the path in which He is leading will ultimately get us to where He wants to take us. If only Israel had remembered that, they would have avoided forty years of wandering and then dying in the wilderness and missing out on THE BLESSING received by the next generation.

May we share the TRUSTING RESOLVE of Paul who wrote…
“The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and BRING ME SAFELY INTO HIS HEAVENLY KINGDOM. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” (2 Timothy 4:18 ESV)

Let us always TRUST GOD’S WAY, remembering He is much bigger than any foe or obstacle that may be met along the way.

Have a great day CONTINUING TO FOLLOW TOWARD GOD’S GREATEST BLESSING!
Carl

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"Oops?"

When my wife hears me say “Oops!”, she knows I have made a mistake. I have accidents. I commit blunders. I goof up. It is unfortunately a part of my life. Sometimes in spite of my carefulness when carrying out a task, I find myself making the very mess I was hoping to avoid. Stuff sloshes and spills and there is a mess to be cleaned up. Am I alone in the struggle?

Imagine lying on an operating table undergoing surgery. What would go through our mind if we heard the surgeon suddenly say, “Oops!”? It would be a bit unsettling to say the least. Since we know what we mean when we say “Oops!”, that is not what we would want to hear from the doctor who is cutting into our body. To hear “Oops!” would not be very comforting.

I would dare say that “Oops!” is one word we won’t hear from the mouth of God. We should be encouraged that nothing with God is an accident. He does not make mistakes. We may struggle in understanding His Ways and His timeline at times, but they will inevitably prove to be right. The reality about each of us is that “we all stumble in many ways.” (James 3:2) However, we should find comfort in the PERFECTION of God!

From David’s song of deliverance (also 2 Samuel 22) we read…
“This GOD -- HIS WAY IS PERFECT; THE WORD OF THE LORD PROVES TRUE; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.” (Psalm 18:30 ESV)

The more we accept GOD’S WAYS and follow in them, the less “Oops!” will come from our lips with regard to our spiritual walk. Faithfully striving to live in accordance with His Will we will instead speak more praise and thanksgiving for His Wisdom guiding us. Let us also be thankful for His ability to deliver us from even the messes we create.

Have a great day KNOWING GOD TRULY KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOING!
Carl

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Don't Throw It Away!

Do you ever get started on a project with the confidence you can handle it, but as you continue working, that confidence begins to diminish? One of the areas where I struggle with this is when assembling something that has instructions set up for several variations of the finished product. As the assembly progresses I begin to question whether I have put the correct parts on the correct side of each piece to be joined together. I stop and look at the instructions. I look at the pieces. I look at the instructions again. I look at the pieces. Then I look at my wife and declare that I am sure the person who put together the instructions never saw the parts or the finished project. Along with my confidence I may feel like throwing away the instructions and giving the job to someone else. Eventually I do get everything assembled properly, but I get frustrated that my confidence in the midst of the project is not as high as it is at the beginning.

Isn’t life that way? We say confidently to God what we aim to do in life in accordance with His Will and for His glory. Yet as time goes on we might feel that confidence beginning to dwindle. It may be that we are looking at too much at once and feel overwhelmed by all the things going on around us. Perhaps it can be likened to looking at the floor covered with all the parts of the thing to be assembled and deciding it doesn’t appear as easy as the picture indicated. If the focus is centered on each piece within each step it isn’t so overwhelming. And that is the way God desires us to accept life -- a day at a time as He gives it. He also desires for us to remember the confidence with which we began our relationship to Him and His family. Don’t throw the confidence you have in His Way, in His guidance, and in His promises out the window.

The Hebrew writer addressed Christians who were going through great trials in their walk of faith. As he offered words of encouragement he reminded them of their earlier days when they had stood firm in the face of suffering, how their willingness to stand with others was a source of encouragement to their brethren, and how through it all they had focused on what lay in store for them in eternity (Hebrews 10:32-34).

He then went on to exhort…
“(35) Therefore DO NOT THROW AWAY YOUR CONFIDENCE, which has a great reward. (36) For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.” (Hebrews 10:35-36 ESV)

God -- who brought about life -- also drew up the instructions for its assembly and progress. The pieces, as He laid them out, all fit in accordance with the pattern He has given. Let us keep His instructions before us. May we also pray for each other to retain the confidence we had from the beginning in committing our lives to God. Let us not throw it away. Let us encourage each other that it may not diminish as the tasks of life progress. Through perseverance, God’s Will shall be accomplished in our lives and we will receive every one of His blessed promises.

Have a great day RETAINING YOUR CONFIDENCE IN YOUR WALK WITH GOD.
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 01/26/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Do You Taste The Goodness?

Do you remember when growing up the hesitancy to try new foods? As your mother would see you snurl your nose would she then encourage you to take a taste? How would you know you didn’t like it if you didn’t take a taste? Can you imagine some of the good foods you would have missed out on had you never taken that first taste? The unwillingness to experience one bite could have kept you from something good for the rest of your life.

Then there are some things we need to develop a taste for. With me, that was coffee and clam chowder. At one time I didn’t even like the smell of coffee, but now I love it black and am especially fond of the rich blends. I had tried clam chowder as a child (and my mother eventually settled to serve me potato soup), but several years ago my wife encouraged me to take a taste and now she would have trouble getting me to share mine with her. I’m glad I finally took that taste because ooh is it good.

The Psalmist encouraged…
“Oh, TASTE AND SEE that the LORD IS GOOD! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” (Psalm 34:8 ESV)

One of the ways in which the word “taste” is used in Scripture conveys the idea of “experiencing or getting to know by gaining an understanding of”. God invites us to try Him. He encourages us to experience His way. He knows if we gain an understanding of it we will readily see how good it is.

And if you have tasted, then never lose the craving.
“(2) Like newborn infants, LONG FOR THE PURE SPIRITUAL MILK, that by it you may grow up to salvation -- (3) if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.” (1 Peter 2:2-3 ESV)

Have a great day WITH A TASTE FOR GOD’S GOODNESS!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 01/25/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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The "A" of ABC!

How’s your “A”? Is it a “BA” or a “CA”? What is “A”? “A” is for attitude. How is yours? Is it a “BA” (bad attitude) or is it a “CA” (Christ attitude)? Paul, in writing to the church at Philippi, encouraged:

“Your ATTITUDE should be the SAME AS that of CHRIST JESUS.” (Philippians 2:5 NIV)

Paul stated this after warning against being driven by selfish ambition or self-interest. As we read through the verses that follow we find Paul’s description of how Christ took on the nature of a servant and, in humble submission to the will of the Father, gave Himself for us. The sacrifice He made was done with our interests in mind; the salvation of our souls. This is all part of the picture of the CHRIST ATTITUDE. Aren’t you glad He had it? Don’t you wish everybody did? Where I need to begin is with “me” and where you need to begin is with “you” to start taking on and modeling this beautiful attitude of servitude. This is the attitude that changes lives. This is the attitude that meets needs. And this is the attitude that glorifies God.

Have a great day “A”iming to “B”e “C”hrist-like!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 01/24/1999]

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This Little Light Of Mine!

You may be deeply troubled by the continual decline in morality around the world and within our nation. Popular opinion seems to rule more than a focus on what is really right or wrong. Note the encouragement Paul gave the Philippians who were living in the midst of a pagan society.

We read…
“(14) Do all things without grumbling or questioning, (15) that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, AMONG WHOM YOU SHINE AS LIGHTS in the world, (16) holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.” (Philippians 2:14-16 ESV)

The present darkness gives us opportunity to SHINE! There is such a contrast between God’s way and the direction of our society the light of proper living will SHINE and expose that contrast. We need to consider everything we do and say because our world is in needs of God’s illumination and He desires to use us as lights in this world.

Some of you teens may have chosen to join with others at school for a time of Bible study. You are letting your light SHINE during a time others have chosen to focus on different things. Your choices of places to go and movies to watch are also opportunities to let your light SHINE.

In our neighborhoods, the things we are seen to be involved in and the habits we have set regarding fellowship with the church are other ways of letting our light SHINE.

Every little thing that is right will continue to make the light of God’s will in our lives SHINE brighter and brighter that the difference He makes in our life will be seen. We may not always know what thing (big or little) may impact another, but it all counts. Some time ago I sold a car to a neighbor. The necessary time period in which he was to change the title slipped his mind and thus he was going to have to pay an additional fee. It was suggested to him that maybe I would change the date on the transfer of title, but his response was, “No, Carl is too honest. It’s my fault I’m taking care of it late.” I am thankful my neighbor has that impression and it has reminded me how everything I do and say matters.

You may have focused on “This Little Light Of Mine” as a children’s song, but it is an important facet of our daily Christian walk. Keep the light SHINING. Let it SHINE among your peers. Let it SHINE in your family. Let it SHINE at work. Let it SHINE wherever you are and in whatever you are doing. Light is to be a part of our nature if Christ is in us. May we remain in line with Christ so that we can reflect His light in this dark world.

Have a great day SHINING TO THE GLORY OF GOD!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 01/23/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Best Effort!

Jesus acknowledged the position of the scribes and Pharisees as teachers of the law. He knew the people held them in high honor. However, Jesus urged the people to practice what these leaders taught, but not to imitate what they did. (Matthew 23:1-3) Though there was often an overemphasis on the traditions (i.e. Mark 7:3-4 & 9-12) not all that they taught was wrong. The problem was their hypocrisy in not practicing themselves what they were teaching. Skill had developed in playing the part while hiding what really existed within. (note Matthew 23:27-28)

Because of this hypocrisy, Jesus exhorted…
“For I tell you, UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS that of the scribes and Pharisees, YOU WILL NEVER ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.” (Matthew 5:20 ESV)

They appeared pious. They were considered righteous. They may have worked hard to retain that appearance. However, they were lacking where the effort really counted. Someone has said, “Work harder at being what you should be than at hiding what you are.” [source: e-mail] What is it that we are working at the hardest? If the effort is poured into becoming what we SHOULD BE we will have less to worry about being exposed.

Writing to the church at Thessalonica, Paul encouraged…
“Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us HOW YOU OUGHT TO LIVE AND to PLEASE GOD, just as you are doing, that you DO SO MORE AND MORE.” (1 Thessalonians 4:1 ESV)

May we also “more and more” strive to be what we SHOULD BE. Getting the essence of our life right with God will naturally produce better actions and fruit. May our efforts glorify God and keep us focused on how He would have us to live.

Have a great day BECOMING THE BEINGS GOD DESIRES US TO BE!
Carl

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Important Aspect Of Hearing!

Those who are hearing impaired miss out on some enjoyable sounds such as those of nature, the laughter of children, melodic music, sweet whispers, etc. These individuals also have to sharpen their other senses to be alert since they may not hear alarms or other sounds of warning. However, the greatest hearing impairment is that of a refusal to hear.

When Jesus was transfigured on the mountain, Peter, James, and John heard the voice from above telling them to “LISTEN to Him.” (Matthew 17:7) As Jesus taught, there were several times He capped off the truths He revealed with “He who has EARS TO HEAR, let him HEAR.” (i.e. Matthew 11:15; 13:9; 13:43) In Revelation we find the exhortation seven times, “He who HAS AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR what the Spirit says to the churches….” (Revelation 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22)

Paul stated…
“So FAITH COMES FROM HEARING, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17 ESV)

From these passages we should easily conclude that hearing is important! Are we continuing to LISTEN? If we continue to LISTEN our faith should keep on growing. However, it is also important HOW WE HEAR. Are we appropriately PAYING ATTENTION to the message of God?

During the time of the prophet Jeremiah, he sent a message of God to king Jehoiakim. However, when three of four columns of the scroll were read, Jehoiakim would cut those sections off and throw them into the fire. (Jeremiah 36:23) That was his reaction to what he heard which is quite a contrast from his own father’s response to the reading of God’s Word. When his father Josiah was king [*see extra note below] and the book of the law was found while repairs were being done to the temple (2 Kings 22:8) and was read to him, Josiah “tore his clothes.” (2 Kings 22:11) Josiah TOOK THE WORD OF GOD TO HEART, committed to walking in the way of the Lord and to keep His commandments (2 Kings 23:3), and on the basis of the truth of God led the nation in much needed reform. Thus we see two individuals of the same family, one of whom chose not to listen while the other was deeply moved by what He heard.

We choose what KIND OF LISTENER we will be. Does God have our ear? When we hear His Word (and read it) are we continuing to TAKE IT TO HEART, allowing it to be the basis for the actions of our life? “FAITH COMES FROM HEARING.” May we listen so that faith will continue to come.

Have a great day PROPERLY USING THE EARS GOD BLESSED YOU WITH!
Carl

[*Josiah was first replaced by his son Jehoahaz who only reigned for three months in Jerusalem and did evil in the sight of the Lord. Then Josiah’s son Eliakim took his place and Pharaoh changed his name to Jehoiakim. (2 Kings 23:31-37)]

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Extreme Makeover!

Some people view their body as a temple. “Well, isn’t it?”, you might ask! The scriptures tell us our body is “a temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19) and we are to “glorify God” in it. (1 Corinthians 6:20) However, the perspective I’m referring to is what can become an overemphasis on the physical to the point of almost worshipping the body. Certainly there is nothing wrong with taking care of the body; trying to keep it FIT and maintaining a well groomed appearance. The problem is that there is often an overemphasis on the body without due consideration of what is of lasting significance. We might all agree that some extreme makeovers have gone too extreme. There is the utmost need to consider how FIT the inner-self is because that is the aspect of our being that will transcend this realm.

Remember Paul’s exhortation to Timothy when he wrote…
“(7) Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather TRAIN YOURSELF FOR GODLINESS; (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 4:7-8 ESV)

It is the “NEW YOU” in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 3:10) that cannot be overemphasized. The day will come when that which is of dust will return to the earth, but the spirit will return to God who gave it. (Ecclesiastes 12:7) May we take care of the body in a way that reveals our appreciation for what God has created, but above all be sure we are remaining SPIRITUALLY FIT. Therein lies the benefit for both this life and the life to come. Let us be sure we are becoming FIT for the Heavenly life!

Have a great day GLORIFYING GOD WITH OUR ENTIRE BEING!
Carl

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GoodThings!

There are many good things we experience in this life. Some of those we live in anticipation of while others just happen. These good things uplift us when our spirits might have become discouraged and provide a sense of renewed HOPE that helps us press on. As we consider the good things we experience perhaps the statement comes to mind that has been expressed again and again that “All good things must come to an end.” For some people that acknowledgement takes some of the joy out of the good things of life even as they are in the midst of them because they are saddened that they will not last. Many of the good things we experience in this life are not ongoing. We enjoy events, gatherings, and activities of varying sorts that dot our calendars and those moments come and go. However, it is NOT TRUE THAT ALL good things must come to an end.

Paul encouraged the church at Thessalonica with these words:
“(16) Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us ETERNAL COMFORT AND GOOD HOPE through grace, (17) comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.” (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 ESV)

Here Paul mentioned two good things that do not end. One is ETERNAL COMFORT [other translations have “encouragement” (NIV) or “consolation” (NKJV)]. The second is GOOD HOPE that transcends this life (note 1 Corinthians 15:19) to be fully realized in the eternity of heaven.

We may experience a twinge of sadness with regard to the ending of some good things in this life. However, when we do, let us remember the grand things that are eternal according to the promises of God. Because our God is eternal what He holds in store for us will not come to an end and because of our eternal Savior we have the “good hope” of everlasting life. May we begin experiencing now the ETERNAL COMFORT of life in Him.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED BY THE THINGS THAT WILL NEVER END!
Carl

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Rise And Shine!

Yesterday morning I headed out on my walk before the sun came up. As my walk continued I had the privilege of watching a sight I never tire of; a beautiful sunrise. To me, a rising sun is a brilliant expression of God declaring He has graciously granted another day.

A rising sun. A NEW day. NEW opportunities. NEW expectations. NEW encounters with others. All of that can be glorious and ought to be approached in thanksgiving to God because each NEW day is His gracious gift. As we unwrap this gift and put it to use we reveal the appreciation we have for having received it.

The risen Son! NEW life. NEW opportunities. NEW expectations. NEW encounters. RENEWED hope. Because of Jesus, a glorious life for now and eternity has been opened up to us.

Peter declared…
“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to A LIVING HOPE THROUGH THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST FROM THE DEAD, (4) to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, (5) who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:3-5 ESV)

What a marvelous hope we have because Jesus was raised from the dead. Death was not the end of the plan of God as Jesus went to the cross. Because He rose and still lives (note John 14:19b) we have a “living hope” to encourage us on.

Writing to the church at Rome Paul noted…
“We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, JUST AS CHRIST WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD by the glory of the Father, WE TOO MIGHT WALK IN NEWNESS OF LIFE.” (Romans 6:4 ESV)

How we live our life will reveal how much we appreciate what Christ has made possible for us. Having been united with Him in baptism is the NEWNESS of life becoming more and more evident? May the light of the risen Son be reflected in our life as we live for His glory and praise.

Have a great day RISING TO LIVE TO HIS GLORY!
Carl

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Cheating Self!

Some people, in the process of trying to secure what they want for themselves, in reality end up on the losing end. In the quest for “success” a toll is sometimes taken on relationships with family and friends, on personal health, as well as the missing out on many wonderful aspects of life. The lesson many are too slow to learn (if they learn it at all) is that in the process of gaining what they think is life they stand to lose it. (note Matthew 16:25-26) The earlier in life this principle is learned the better off one will be as goals begin to be set for life.

During the time of Malachi we read…
“(8) WILL MAN ROB GOD? YET YOU ARE ROBBING ME. But you say, ‘How have we robbed you?’ In your tithes and contributions. (9) You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing me, the whole nation of you. (10) Bring the full tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby PUT ME TO THE TEST, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not OPEN THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN FOR YOU AND POUR DOWN FOR YOU A BLESSING UNTIL THERE IS NO MORE NEED. (11) I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it will not destroy the fruits of your soil, and your vine in the field shall not fail to bear, says the Lord of hosts. (12) THEN ALL NATIONS WILL CALL YOU BLESSED, for you will be a land of delight, says the Lord of hosts.” (Malachi 3:8-12 ESV)

Robbing God? Apparently God’s people were not bringing what they were supposed to have tithed to Him. Those tithes were meant to help support God’s priesthood and their work. Perhaps the tithes were being withheld because the people felt they couldn’t afford to give. However, did you note how much God desired to BLESS them? Someone has said, “When you rob God, you cheat yourself.” [source: sentence sermons] That’s exactly what was happening. They were missing out on God’s BLESSINGS because they had held back, not trusting in God to provide.

Robbing God can be done in various ways. One may offer their life to God and then take it back as their own to pursue and retain their own things. It is far too easy to get wrapped up in the urgent and forget what is of greater and lasting significance. One may refuse to give of money, time, or energy in the service of which God has called His people to be a part. However, by so doing, there will be the loss of the BLESSINGS He desires to bestow -- one of which is the joy of giving!

Note how Jesus stated the BLESSING.
“(37) Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; (38) GIVE, AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU. GOOD MEASURE, PRESSED DOWN, SHAKEN TOGETHER, RUNNING OVER, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:37-38 ESV)

Every time I read that passage I think of the statement on the side of cereal boxes that reads, “Packaged by weight. Contents may settle during shipping.” That statement is intended to explain the reason why there is still a lot of room in the top of the box. However, picture the BLESSING of God being in such an abundance in so many ways that the box (life) is filled to running over with both physical and spiritual BLESSINGS.

As Jesus pointed to the BLESSING He noted its connection with the willingness to give. In wholly giving ourselves to God we display a trust in His promises to provide. Are we giving God His due? If not, we ultimately cheat ourselves out of what He wishes to provide. May we keep our trust in Him as we seek to serve His Will in our daily lives.

Have a great day LOSING LIFE TO GOD TO FIND IT AND KEEP IT!
Carl

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Survivors!

People throughout the ages have survived many things. In some cases there has been great surprise that survival was even possible. Survival success has been attributed to such things as a strong will to do so (unwillingness to give up), wisdom to have done the right things (had been prepared or were resourceful), a miracle, or just sheer luck. Perhaps we may think we have what it takes to make it through the physical challenges of life, but do we have what it takes spiritually? What (or whom) do we focus on? On what (or whom) do we depend? Someone has said, “Man talks of the survival of the fittest, but the glory of the gospel is that it transforms the unfit.” [source: “sentence sermons”]

Some glory in what they see as their strengths. Paul -- recognizing the POWER OF GOD at work in his life -- boasted in his weakness because it was through His weakness that the STRENGTH OF GOD became evident. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10) Paul did not see himself as being fit to be called an apostle, but by the grace of God that’s what he was. (1 Corinthians 15:9-10) In Christ his life and perspective had been dynamically transformed. By GOD’S POWER Paul was made fit for the ministry he had been given.

Paul expressed that reality in the following words.
“(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)

The Greek word translated “sufficiency” is “hikanotes”. The adjective “hikanos” means enough, sufficient, or fit. In verse six the word translated “competent” (ESV) is from the verb “hikanoo” meaning to make sufficient or render fit. [source: “Vine’s Expository Dictionary Of N.T. Words.] In spite of Paul’s weaknesses, God was able to provide the “ENOUGHNESS” or “FITNESS” for success in his life.

Like Paul, let us remember it is not solely because of our own ability and strength, but because of WHAT GOD IS DOING IN AND THROUGH US that we can find success. Then we can join him in confidently saying, “I can do ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13 ESV) Not only will we victoriously survive this realm, but will thrive in it and beyond as our life is transformed and renewed in Christ.

Have a great day BEING FIT BY GOD FOR EVEN MORE GLORY TO COME!
Carl

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Daily Offering!

Among the priestly duties under the old law was that of offering the morning and evening sacrifices. (Exodus 29:38-46) Two lambs were to be offered on a daily basis; one in the morning and the other “at twilight.” (Exodus 29:41 ESV) This was to be a “REGULAR burnt offering throughout” their generations. (Exodus 29:42 ESV) Note the following passage which recently caught my attention as I was reading through Leviticus.

In Leviticus we read…
“(8) The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, (9) ‘Command Aaron and his sons, saying, This is the law of the burnt offering. The burnt offering shall be on the hearth on the altar ALL NIGHT UNTIL THE MORNING, and the fire of the altar shall be kept burning on it.’” (Leviticus 6:8-9 ESV)

It appears this offering was to be arranged on the altar in such a way that it would be consumed slowly through the night. In the morning the ashes were to be dealt with appropriately (Leviticus 6:10-12) and offering made again. If this is in reference to the REGULAR burnt offering sacrificed in the evening it would provide us with a picture of the two daily offerings being consumed gradually through the day and night continually before the Lord.

We don’t offer animal sacrifices today. Jesus was offered once for all time to deal with our sin. (Hebrews 9:26-28 & 10:10) However, as I read the above passage I was struck by the thought of an offering we are to consider on a daily basis as we move on through the activities of each day.

Paul exhorted…
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to PRESENT YOUR BODIES AS A LIVING SACRIFICE, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1 ESV)

We don’t just offer ourselves once and have it over and done with. The giving of our lives in service to God is an ONGOING DAILY THING. May our life continue as a PERPETUAL offering acceptable to God as we look toward the PERPETUAL eternal life the offering of the Son of God has made possible for us.

Have a great day LIVING AS AN ACCEPTABLE OFFERING TO GOD!
Carl

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Spreading The News!

Living in the Victorian seaport town of Port Townsend, Washington, seagulls are an everyday sight. Today as I walked I listened to them squawking and carrying on excitedly as they swooped about and dropped down to where they thought they would find food. It seems that when a seagull finds SOMETHING GOOD they just can’t keep their mouth’s (beaks) shut. They begin squawking in such a way that other seagulls in the area come flying in to get in on the goodies. Seagulls would have less competition if they were quiet about what they had found.

I was intrigued when I first watched Disney’s “Finding Nemo” (2003) when the seagulls appeared. The animators and writers -- rather than merely having the seagulls squawking -- creatively had them crying out, “Mine! Mine! Mine! Mine!” I was glad to finally know what all the squawking of seagulls is about.

Several times when Jesus healed someone He followed it up with what might appear to have been a strange request. Note one of those examples from the Gospel of Mark.

After healing a man of his leprosy, we read…
“(43) And Jesus sternly charged him and sent him away at once, (44) and said to him, ‘See that you SAY NOTHING TO ANYONE, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, for a proof to them.’ (45) BUT HE WENT OUT AND BEGAN TO TALK FREELY ABOUT IT, AND TO SPREAD THE NEWS, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter a town, but was out in desolate places, and people were coming to him from every quarter.” (Mark 1:43-45 ESV)

As Jesus’ popularity spread, many were brought to Him for healing (i.e. Mark 1:32-34) and it reached a point where it even became difficult to eat. (Mark 3:20) For that reason Jesus and His disciples had to withdraw at times. However -- as noted in the text above -- the people continued coming. Even though Jesus told this leper not to tell, it appears that he (like some others Jesus healed) just couldn’t keep quiet about the GOOD he had received from Jesus. It was GOOD NEWS and being overjoyed about the gift of restoration he had received he just had to spread the news.

The early part of Jesus’ ministry was apparently not the time for full disclosure, but that time has passed and there is GOOD NEWS to share. Having received rebirth, renewal, and restoration in Christ, how can we keep silent?

Remember the response of Peter and John as the growth of the church began.
“(18) So they [the Jewish council] called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. (19) But Peter and John answered them, ‘Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, (20) for WE CANNOT BUT SPEAK OF WHAT WE HAVE SEEN AND HEARD.’” (Acts 4:18-20 ESV)

“Mine! Mine! Mine! Mine!” The GOOD NEWS of Jesus had become their story and they could not help but speak it! “Mine! Mine! Mine! Mine!” Isn’t it ours to excitedly squawk about too? As disciples of Jesus, let us live and speak in a manner that others will be drawn by the GOOD NEWS of what we have found and has become ours.

Have a great day COMPELLED TO SPEAK!
Carl

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The Heart We Need!

We may be easily frustrated by the tendencies some people exhibit in their lives. Why don’t some people get it? Why can’t they see what is right and do it? Why do they continue down the road they are traveling? Why do they refuse to be drawn toward God?

Note the following description of God’s people at the time of Hosea.
“MY PEOPLE ARE BENT ON TURNING AWAY FROM ME, and though they call out to the Most High, he shall not raise them up at all.” (Hosea 11:7 ESV)

What a sad picture of the people of God. Even though He had extended tender loving care (note Hosea 11:1-4) they were “bent on turning away” from Him. They were determined! This was what they were inclined toward! This was where their desire was fixed! What can be done when people are so intent on such a direction for their life? God created mankind with a freewill to choose and if they choose to turn away from Him He does not force them back even though His great desire is for their return.

I know how frustrated I feel when I see others determined to keep moving the wrong direction in their life. It challenges my patience. It moves me toward being ready to give up on them. There is only so much I can do since a lot depends on the choices others will make. However, one of the things we must keep in mind is that we don’t know what the final end might be for others. As long as there is life there is hope! This should encourage us to not be too quick to write others off! God -- Who has all of life in view and knows us all better than we even know ourselves -- has been very patient in the opportunities He provides for repentance. That is His great desire so that we can be saved. (2 Peter 3:9) So, what was God to do with these “bent on turning away” from Him?

As we continue the reading in Hosea…
“(8) HOW CAN I GIVE YOU UP, O Ephraim? HOW CAN I HAND YOU OVER, O Israel? How can I make you like Admah? How can I treat you like Zeboiim? MY HEART RECOILS within me; MY COMPASSION GROWS WARM AND TENDER. (9) I will not execute my burning anger; I will not again destroy Ephraim; FOR I AM GOD and not a man, the Holy One in your midst, and I will not come in wrath.” (Hosea 11:8-9 ESV)

Admah and Zeboiim were cities allied with Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 14:8) and were destroyed along with those two cities (Deuteronomy 29:23) during the time of Abraham. However, God -- not being like a man (vs.9) who is frequently short on patience and often exercises unrestrained anger -- would again offer opportunity for repentance. God, Who has the right and complete justification if He chose to disregard us, has a HEART OF COMPASSION for His creation.

Praise God for His COMPASSION. It is the COMPASSIONATE HEART of God that we need to nurture in our own lives so that we do not allow frustration and impatience to cause us to give up hope for others. God’s patience has been tried far more than our own and yet we see His COMPASSION. We who have been the beneficiaries of His great COMPASSION and patience ought to show our appreciation through a willingness to extend it to others. May we strive to develop HIS HEART as we continue to reach out to even those who seem bent on moving away from His Way. We never know which action or moment might be the one that draws them back to Him.

Have a great day ALLOWING GOD’S COMPASSION TO BE AROUSED IN THE HEART!
Carl

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Excuse Me!

Picture a child rushing through a crowded room crying out, “Excuse me! Excuse!” as he or she presses on toward the destination they have in mind. We might note the child’s words reveal having been taught the need for politeness in maneuvering through a crowded room. However, doesn’t the “Excuse me!” used in such a manner actually convey the idea, “Out of my way as I get where I want to do what I want!”?

When Jesus told the parable of the “Great Banquet”, those first invited when told it was time to come began offering excuse after excuse as they rejected the invitation.

We read…
“(18) But THEY ALL ALIKE BEGAN TO MAKE EXCUSES. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. PLEASE HAVE ME EXCUSED.’ (19) And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. PLEASE HAVE ME EXCUSED.’ (20) And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I CANNOT COME.’” (Luke 14:18-20 ESV)

The Jewish leaders and the people of Israel had been anticipating the time for when the Messiah would come and establish His kingdom. They knew they would surely be invited when the time came. However, when the Messiah did come, so many of them rejected what He had to offer as they went on living according to their own understanding and doing things the way they had become accustomed to doing them. These excuses were actually conveying the idea, “I’ve got my own stuff I want to do” as they turned their backs on the inviter to do what and go where they wished. Personal possessions and relationships were associated with the excuses and they were polite in saying “PLEASE”, but the focus was on PLEASING self rather than PLEASING God.

Many today are still rushing on in life going about their own interests! Are we also guilty of trudging on with our own stuff while showing little interest in the kingdom of God? Do we recognize the privileges we have been invited to enjoy and of which service we can take part? To politely excuse ourselves does not mean we have been excused. Sometimes the appropriate response can be, “There is no excuse for you!”

It is not to be about PLEASING ourselves. (Romans 15:1) God has been PLEASED to reveal His Son (i.e. Galatians 1:16) and we are to learn to discern what is PLEASING to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:10) It is okay to excuse ourselves from our own stuff and the things of this world in order to accept the invitation of God. In fact it is the necessary thing if we are going to live lives PLEASING to Him. May we grant Him that courtesy in view of His gracious invitation!

Have a great day REMAINING HIS INVITED GUEST!
Carl

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Life's Path!

It has been stated that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Intending to do things is easier than following through, but we must put forth the effort to walk in a proper manner on life’s way. Paved ways are certainly easier to travel, but that is not the reality for all of life’s journey. Life’s path is not always smooth and free of obstacles.

Some of the areas I frequently walk have places where the sidewalk sections are uneven. Over the years tree roots have pushed up and tilted slabs of the concrete or the ground has settled under them. With sections cracked or where there is unevenness from one concrete slab to the next it is important to REMAIN WATCHFUL AND WALK CAREFULLY in order to avoid tripping and falling. It would be a lot easier for walking if these sections were completely replaced, but that has not been done. Instead, many of these cracks and uneven sections have been painted a bright yellow to draw attention to the possible danger. Therefore CAREFUL ATTENTION must continue to be exercised while walking.

The same is true with life. The way is not all smooth and easy going so we must be WATCHFUL AND PAY ATTENTION to the warning signs God has provided. It would be a whole lot easier if God would just remove all the cracks, uneven places, and obstacles from life’s path so that our journey would be a smooth one. Perhaps we pray for God to remove the obstacles. His answer may be for us to trust Him for guidance around and over them. He has not chosen to have them removed. We grow in character and strength as we learn how to deal with meeting them on life’s journey.

Jesus exhorted…
“(13) ENTER BY THE NARROW GATE. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. (14) For THE GATE IS NARROW AND THE WAY IS HARD THAT LEADS TO LIFE, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:13-14 ESV)

There is an easy way and Jesus noted that many have chosen it. Its destination, however, is not good. The way that leads to life has its challenges, but the effort will be worth the arrival. Therefore we need to approach life a step and obstacle at a time. The cracks in the sidewalk and uneven sections are not too much of a challenge for me as long as I am WATCHFUL and do not look off too much to the right and to the left. The same is true spiritually with the need to continue looking straight ahead.

Solomon urged…
“(25) LET YOUR EYES LOOK DIRECTLY FORWARD, and YOUR GAZE BE STRAIGHT BEFORE YOU. (26) PONDER THE PATH OF YOUR FEET; then all your ways will be sure. (27) Do NOT SWERVE TO THE RIGHT OR TO THE LEFT; turn your foot away from evil.” (Proverbs 4:25-27 ESV)

We also ought to be mindful of those who perhaps do not have as agile a faith as we might possess. Like some with physical limitations may have to be helped over curbs and uneven walkways, we may need to help others around and over the tough places on life’s path. With God’s guidance and the help of each other we can make the journey. And when we do stumble, let us simply get back up and continue on. The key to success will be in always getting up one more time than we have fallen.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A SURE FOOTING IN LIFE’S WAY!
Carl

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What Following Implies!

In the early stages of Jesus’ ministry, He choose twelve men whom He would disciple and designate to be Apostles (Mark 3:14) to carry on the mission of reaching the lost. When Jesus began calling these, note the choice made by the first ones called.

At the calling of Simon (Peter) and Andrew…
“And immediately they left their nets and followed him.” (Mark 1:18 ESV)

At the calling of James and John…
“And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him.” (Mark 1:20 ESV)

At the calling of Levi (also called Matthew)….
“And leaving everything, he rose and followed him.” (Luke 5:28 ESV)

I chose to not highlight anything in these verses as I normally do, but did you note the similar movement that took place in the lives of these first five disciples? What did they have to do in order to follow Jesus? They each LEFT something behind. Peter and Andrew immediately “LEFT their nets”, leaving behind what had been their life and occupation. James and John “LEFT their father” in the boat, leaving behind the family business of which they had been a part. Matthew LEFT his lucrative tax business behind to follow Jesus. Such is not always an easy thing to do. (i.e. Mark 10:21-22)

Remember the encouragement Jesus gave the disciples when they acknowledged what they had LEFT behind.

“(29) And he said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has LEFT house or wife or brothers or parents or children, FOR THE SAKE OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD, (30) who will not RECEIVE MANY TIMES MORE IN THIS TIME, AND IN THE AGE TO COME ETERNAL LIFE.’” (Luke 18:29-30 ESV)

In the discipleship process, the four (Peter, Andrew, James, and John) who had been fishermen learned the greater value of fishing for men while Matthew learned what real wealth there was to gain in Christ. Such lessons and others are ours to learn more fully as well. What we receive in our walk with Jesus should be seen as worth having LEFT behind whatever we did when we accepted the invitation to follow Him. It is something Paul recognized (Philippians 3:7-8) as he pressed on in Christ. Is there something we have refused to leave behind that is hindering our following Jesus? Because of the willingness of the first disciples, God was able to use them in dynamic ways as the church began to grow. May we also be willing to follow in such a way so that God can use us as He sees fit.

Have a great day LEARNING THE GREATER VALUE OF BEING A DISCIPLE OF JESUS!
Carl

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Remaining His!

When it was time for the nation of Israel to be led out of bondage in Egypt, God appeared to Moses and spoke to him from the burning bush. (Exodus 3:4) After referring to Himself as the God of Moses’ father, of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 3:6), we read the following inclusion.

“(7) Then the LORD said, “I have surely seen the affliction of MY PEOPLE who are in Egypt and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters. I know their sufferings, (8) and I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites.” (Exodus 3:7-8 ESV)

Following Moses’ attempts to excuse himself from going (Exodus 3:11 - 4:13), he did go, the plagues revealed the great power of God, and under Moses’ leadership the journey toward the promised land began. However, it did not take long for GOD’S PEOPLE to begin to murmur and complain. (Exodus 14:11; 15:24; 16:2; 17:3; etc.) Then the people committed the grievous sin of idolatry while Moses was on the mountain. (Exodus 32)

Note God’s response at that point!
“(7) And the LORD said to Moses, ‘Go down, for YOUR PEOPLE, whom you brought up out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves. (8) They have turned aside quickly out of the way that I commanded them. They have made for themselves a golden calf and have worshiped it and sacrificed to it and said, ‘These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt!’ ’” (Exodus 32:7-8 ESV)

Did you note the shift in God’s focus between chapters 3 and 32? The nation God had referred to as “MY PEOPLE” He called at this point “YOUR PEOPLE” while speaking to Moses. How could they be called God’s people when they had turned from Him to other gods? Though Moses was encouraged that from him God could still “make a great nation” (Exodus 32:10), Moses pled with God on behalf of those he still referred to as God’s people. (Exodus 32:11)

How can we claim to be GOD’S PEOPLE if we are following another? How can others take us seriously if our conduct reveals we are not completely devoted to Him? Do we love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength? (Mark 12:30) Whether it be the embracing of an ideology other than God’s or simply a devotion to others or things that crowd God out of His Sovereign position in our life, it is still a form of idolatry. If God is not truly the God of our life, how can we expect Him to call us HIS PEOPLE? He knows those who are His. (2 Timothy 2:19) May we live in a manner that reveals it is truly so!

Have a great day GROWING IN UNDIVIDED DEVOTION TO GOD!
Carl

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Get Out Of The Way!

Sometimes while my wife and I are in our small kitchen together she will ask me, “Am I in YOUR way?” Other times she will ask, “Are you in MY way?” A fact of life is there will be times when people will get in our way and other times when we will be in theirs. Then there are times when our greatest challenge in life might be that of ourselves getting in our own way. There is a sense in which we need to get out of the way to get IN THE WAY.

In Acts we read the following term in reference to the church.
“(1) But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against THE DISCIPLES OF THE LORD, went to the high priest (2) and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any BELONGING TO THE WAY, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.” (Acts 9:1-2)

We find that designation used also in Acts 19:9 and 23, as well as in Acts 24:14 and 22, and it appears to have been one of the earliest references to emerge in referring to the followers of Jesus. How fitting when we understand that Jesus referred to Himself as “THE WAY” (John 14:6) and if we are in Him then we are in THE WAY. However, in order to be His disciple there is the need to get self out of the way (Matthew 16:24) so that we can be IN THE WAY. May we not allow even ourselves to come between us and the Lord.

Have a great day BEING IN THE WAY!
Carl

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