A Distinctive Commonness!

We live in a world where people love to make distinctions between themselves and others. This may be between those who have much and those who have little, those highly educated and those without much education, those who are the givers and those who are the takers, distinctions between nationalities and even further cultural distinctions within them. And the list goes on. These distinctions are noted for a variety of reasons and perhaps we prefer placing ourselves in categories rather than having others do it. However, where the real discomfort may come is in the realization of those areas where we are distinctively the same! There are some likenesses not so easy to admit, but realities that cannot be ignored. Through the acknowledgement of our similarities (whether good or bad) we can better encourage one another in the right direction.

As Paul was well aware of the great distinction made between Jew and Gentile, he unmistakably declared the following distinctive commonness in his letter to the church at Rome.

“(22)… For there is NO DISTINCTION: (23) for ALL HAVE SINNED AND FALL SHORT of the glory of God, (24) and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” (Romans 3:22b-24 ESV)

The encouragement we have in relation to this common dilemma is the fact there is a common solution and that is found in Christ Jesus. As Christians we should be able to honestly acknowledge where we have been and rejoice in Jesus having satisfied the justice of God by giving Himself for our sins. With this in mind we can humbly help others come to understand we can relate to their struggle because it is common to all mankind and the GOOD NEWS is Jesus is the solution for us all! With Jesus as the solution it makes no difference with regard to economic, social, or racial status. (note Galatians 3:27-28)

Though we are to live different from the world, our need for the forgiveness in Christ remains. We still struggle with falling short of the glory of God. We are still in the process of becoming what God wants us to be. Praise God that as we continue in the relationship the power of Jesus’ blood continues to work in our life. (1 John 1:7) May we continue to hold out the GOOD NEWS of Jesus as it relates to the distinctive commonness of sin’s universal dilemma and God’s universal solution in Christ Jesus (John 14:6; Acts 4:11-12) as the adequate means of the forgiveness of sin and the salvation of the soul.

Have a great day DISTINCTIVELY LIVING THANKFUL TO CHRIST!
Carl

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Sidetracked!

Being sidetracked! Having our attention diverted! Having our planned flow of activity interrupted! Perhaps, like me, you don’t particularly like when that occurs. I begin most days with a list of things to be accomplished and the order in which I hope to do so. However, that process sometime gets interrupted. There are times when it is by something that is not very important and even by things that are actually a nuisance (i.e. a sale’s call on the telephone while right in the middle of developing a thought for a lesson.) Still, there are times when the interruption is by something that really is worthy of being taken care of at that very moment.

Perhaps the best illustration for accepting an interruption was provided in one of our Lord’s familiar parables. (Luke 10) The occasion for this parable was opened by one who had a question with regard to what he needed to do in order to have eternal life. (vs.25) Jesus led the focus toward a proper love for God and for one’s neighbor. (vss.26-28) In an attempt to justify himself, the questioner then wanted to have a neighbor defined. (Luke 10:29)

We then read…
“(30) Jesus replied, ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. (31) Now by chance A PRIEST was going down that road, and when he saw him he PASSED BY ON THE OTHER SIDE. (32) So likewise A LEVITE, when he came to the place and saw him, PASSED BY ON THE OTHER SIDE. (33) BUT A SAMARITAN, AS HE JOURNEYED, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he HAD COMPASSION. (34) He WENT to him and BOUND UP his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he SET HIM ON HIS OWN ANIMAL and BROUGHT HIM TO AN INN and TOOK CARE OF HIM. (35) And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ (36) Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?’ (37) He said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘You go, and do likewise.’” (Luke 10:30-37 ESV)

All three of these -- the priest, the Levite, and the Samaritan -- were on their way somewhere. I don’t imagine it was a convenient time for any of them. Each most likely had something they were on their way to do. The first two did not allow themselves to be interrupted. They were not going to be sidetracked. It did not matter that someone was in need because they obviously had something “more important” to attend to. When we note the actions of the Samaritan we should easily see that what he did took some time. It delayed his journey, costing him time as well as some money. Nevertheless the Samaritan accepted the interruption and did what he could to meet the need before continuing on his way.

Consider for a moment a train. Though it has a final destination, there are places along the way where it is sidetracked in order to load and unload, providing its services on its journey. However, after the purpose for being sidetracked is fulfilled, then the train gets back on track. It is the same with our life. Perhaps the interruption could have come at a better time, but when we are in the position to help, are we willing to break from routine and deal with it, knowing after doing so we can GET BACK ON TRACK with what we were doing?

When we have to get off track, let us not lose track of the final destination. Let us also not forget the track to get back on. Getting off the fast track -- slowing down for a moment to help another -- might even be a needed refresher for ourselves. Remember people and their needs are important. Such situations reveal what is most valued by us. How did neighbor end up being defined? As the one who showed mercy. May we accept the urging Jesus went on to state when He said, “You go, and do likewise.”

Have a great day REMEMBERING MERCY’S TRACK!
Carl

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A Living Copy!

When copies of something are being made the quality of the copy depends on the condition of what is being copied. Though technology continues to improve, copies made from copies are not always as crisp and clear as copies made from THE ORIGINAL. This is true with photocopies as well as audio reproductions. The further down the line one goes in making the copies (i.e. a copy from the copy of a copy of a copy) the digression there generally will be in the clarity or preciseness.

As we live mindful of the kind of example our life ought to present to this world, we must do so remembering THE ORIGINAL that is to be copied. If we merely model our lives after the goodness of the world there may be some positive influences on others, but the quality will not be as good as when the actions of our life are based on the ORIGINAL MASTER to be copied.

When Paul considered the example of his own life, he didn’t say to imitate him as he imitated Apollos or Peter or John. Rather Paul urged others, “Be imitators of me, as I am OF CHRIST.” (1 Corinthians 11:1 ESV) It was only through keeping his focus on Christ that Paul could be a proper example for others. Mindful of the importance of being a good example, he still ultimately directed the focus of others to the example of Christ.

As Paul exhorted the church at Ephesus with regard to what their life was to be lived in imitation of, we read…

“(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. (2) And WALK IN LOVE, AS CHRIST LOVED us AND GAVE himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 4:32- 5:2 ESV)

God is the greatest example for modeling how we ought to be willing to forgive others. Have we not come to know that blessing? There is also no higher example of love that that demonstrated by God, especially through the Son. As we look at the manner in which Christ walked on this earth we are provided with the greatest example of a selfless, giving, and sacrificial love. Since our own willingness to forgive and the manner in which we love sometimes falls short of the Divine example, we need to keep our focus on the ORIGINAL MASTER of such character in order to become a proper example for others.

When it comes to copying the essence of a lifestyle to be lived, may it be seen as a reproduction of the ORIGINATOR and Sustainer of life. This is the essence we were created to possess and that in Christ is being renewed. May that clarity and preciseness become more and more evident.

Have a great day FOCUSED ON BEING A REPRODUCTION OF THE ESSENCE OF GOD!
Carl

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Inside Scoop!

It can be both a privilege and an awesome responsibility when entrusted with the “inside scoop” that has not been made known to everyone. I recently had such information shared with me that I was to hold in confidence until it was made public. When the information was published in the newspaper, I was then at liberty to discuss the issue with others.

Abraham has been noted in both the Old and New Testaments for his faithfulness and trust in God. He was even referred to as “a friend of God.” (James 2:23) This appears to have placed Abraham in a position to be considered worthy of receiving PRIVILEGED INFORMATION.

Prior to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah we read…
“(17) The LORD said, ‘SHALL I HIDE FROM ABRAHAM WHAT I AM ABOUT TO DO, (18) seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? (19) For I have chosen him, that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice, so that the Lord may bring to Abraham what he has promised him.’” (Genesis 18:17-19 ESV)

God had a plan that included Abraham. We as Christians are recipients of that blessing. However, God had an immediate plan in mind because of the wickedness of Sodom, Gomorrah, and the surrounding cities. When God has a plan, He needs to consult or gain the permission of no one. He, as the Creator of all life and being fully righteous, has the right to do whatever He pleases. Nevertheless He chose to reveal His intent to Abraham and Abraham took the opportunity to plead for any righteous ones there might be within the city of Sodom. (Genesis 18:23-33) Could we not say Abraham turned this PRIVILEGED KNOWLEDGE into a prayer for others?

Perhaps there was a two-fold purpose in revealing this to Abraham. First of all, here were some cities that would not receive the blessing that was to come through him because of their great wickedness. Also (according to verse 10) Abraham was given the responsibility to teach his household after him to be obedient and so be in a position to receive the blessing. This makes it clear that there were some conditions associated with the promise of receiving the blessing through Abraham.

As God’s people (and hopefully “friends”, i.e. John 15:14) have we been provided PRIVILEGED INFORMATION? Do we know aspects of His plans of which others are not aware?

In Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus he wrote…
“(7) In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, (8) which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight (9) MAKING KNOWN TO US THE MYSTERY OF HIS WILL, according to his purpose, WHICH HE SET FORTH IN CHRIST (10) as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.” (Ephesians 1:7-10 ESV)

The truth of God we have come to know -- the mystery (in the sense it is that which God must reveal and has revealed) of the truth of salvation in Christ -- is PRIVILEGED KNOWLEDGE we need to prayerfully help others come to understand. God has revealed His Will to us with the expectation we will do something with it.

Writing to the church at Corinth Paul stated…
“(9) So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. (10) For we must ALL APPEAR BEFORE THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. (11) Therefore, KNOWING THE FEAR OF THE LORD, WE PERSUADE OTHERS. But what we are is known to God, and I hope it is known also to your conscience.” (2 Corinthians 5:9-11 ESV)

Yes, the message of salvation in Christ we have come to know is both a privilege and responsibility to be privy to. May we, like Abraham, share a concern for souls who will be impacted by the righteous judgment of God. That is why God has revealed to us both His promises and His warnings. As long as there is life, there is hope.

Have a great day BEING TRUSTWORTHY WITH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS!
Carl

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God Knows!

I don’t know what the population of the world was at the time of Noah, but the Scriptures tell us the world’s condition; a wickedness of man so great “that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Genesis 6:5 ESV) What a horrible picture of humanity! However, there was a man named Noah who was described as “A RIGHTEOUS MAN” (Genesis 6:9) whom God had build an ark for the salvation of his family and the preservation of the creatures of the earth.

During the days of Abraham, there were some cities filled with wicked people. When God revealed His plan to Abraham that these cities were going to be destroyed, Abraham had A CONCERN FOR THE RIGHTEOUS. (Genesis 18:23) Would God sweep them away along with the wicked? Had there been even as few as ten RIGHTEOUS individuals within the city of Sodom, God would have been willing to spare it. (Genesis 18:32) How low would God have gone we don’t know, because it was at ten that Abraham ceased to ask. However, God did rescue four souls: Lot, his wife (though she disobeyed and looked back), and his two daughters.

As Abraham began to question God, he made the following statement regarding God’s character.

“FAR BE IT FROM YOU TO DO SUCH A THING, TO PUT THE RIGHTEOUS TO DEATH WITH THE WICKED, SO THAT THE RIGHTEOUS FARE AS THE WICKED! FAR BE THAT FROM YOU! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?”” (Genesis 18:25 ESV)

Do we find encouragement in Abraham’s observation? He acknowledged GOD’S MINDFULNESS OF THE RIGHTEOUS. He understood God’s ability to discern a difference between those who acknowledged Him and those who did not! We should find encouragement in this reality. Even Peter, as he encouraged those to whom he wrote, tried to encourage them with this truth.

Regarding the time of the flood, Peter wrote…

“(20) because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, EIGHT PERSONS [Gk. “souls”], WERE BROUGHT SAFELY THROUGH WATER.” (1 Peter 3:20 ESV)

Then Peter wrote regarding the time of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah…

“(6) if by turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes he condemned them to extinction, making them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly; (7) and if HE RESCUED RIGHTEOUS LOT, greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked (8) (for as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds that he saw and heard);” (2 Peter 2:6-8 ESV)

Pressing the encouraging point of GOD’S MINDFULNESS of those who seek Him and His Will, Peter went on to state…

“(9) then THE LORD KNOWS HOW TO RESCUE THE GODLY FROM TRIALS, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, (10) and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority.” (2 Peter 2:9-10 ESV)

The great encouragement I see here for us is that no matter how awful the world may get around us, GOD IS STILL MINDFUL of those who acknowledge Him and His Will and seek to please Him. Our eternity is not determined by the actions of others. Though we may receive much encouragement from one another in ways that help us to maintain the relationship, our relationship with God is still very much an individual and personal thing. May we keep our focus on God regardless of the world’s problems, knowing that He will ultimately deliver us into the safety of His eternal home.

Have a great day PRAISING GOD’S KNOWLEDGE OF THOSE WHO ARE HIS!
Carl

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Prayer Matter!

When to pray and for what to pray! Do we sometimes struggle there? Perhaps we may struggle with how to pray, but is not the “when” and the “what” pretty wide open? (i.e. 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Matthew 6:10-13; Philippians 4:6)

Someone has told of their grandmother who had prayed the first thing every morning for years. However, there came a time when she began to be observed reading the newspaper first and so was asked if her praying had become less important. Her response was “Oh, no! I’m just looking to see what I should be praying about.”

As we LOOK AROUND ourselves there should be no shortage of things for which to be prayerful. We have blessings for which to thank God. There is His guidance we and others continually need as we seek to do His Will. There are also plenty of needs for which to pray on behalf of others while we ourselves remain open to the ways in which God can use us to fulfill some of those needs.

As Paul wrote to Timothy he urged…
“(1) First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings BE MADE FOR ALL PEOPLE, (2) for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (3) This is good, and it is PLEASING IN THE SIGHT OF GOD our Savior, (4) WHO DESIRES ALL PEOPLE TO BE SAVED AND TO COME TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4 ESV)

As we pick up a newspaper or magazine, perhaps we would do well to consider such as a source of prayer material. LOOKING AROUND ourselves we should also recognize many other additions to our prayer list. We may not know all the particulars, but our prayer is to the One Who does! May we become known as praying people who sincerely have the utmost needs (including the salvation of their soul) of others in mind.

Have a great day AS A REGULAR PARTICIPANT IN THE PRIVILEGE OF PRAYER!
Carl

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Thanks Giving!

On the news this past Thursday was coverage of a family that has spent that last several years on Thanksgiving Day preparing food in their home on Bainbridge Island (in Washington State) and then traveling to Seattle where they would set up a table on a sidewalk to feed some who are homeless. Rather than sitting at home stuffing themselves, these people have chosen to spend the day as a family offering something to others, and in the process have served about a hundred homeless individuals each year. Is that not a picture of “Thanksliving”?

Yesterday we noted a passage our midweek class considered last Wednesday while discussing things for which we should be thankful and how that thankfulness can be translated into living. Today consider with me one more of those passages, a text that comes from part of Paul’s writing to the church at Corinth with regard to the collection for needy saints in Judea. Note what Paul reminded these Christians of that would help provide a springboard from which their GENEROSITY could be launched.

We read…
“(10) He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. (11) You will be enriched in every way for all your generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. (12) For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints, but is also OVERFLOWING IN MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD. (13) By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission flowing from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, (14) while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. (15) THANKS BE TO GOD FOR HIS INEXPRESSIBLE GIFT!” (2 Corinthians 9:10-15 ESV)

Paul began by reminding the Corinthians Who the greatest Giver is to Whom they themselves should be grateful. God’s GENEROSITY was to prompt their own as they passed on those blessings to others, while also trusting in God’s continued provision. Should it not be the same in our own life? God has been so GENEROUS in the various ways (both physical and spiritual) in which He has blessed us. What impact does His GENEROSITY have on us? Do we take those things for granted? Do we act as though we were owed them? Or do we acknowledge in some way the graciousness and love behind those blessings? God’s gifts should encourage our own GENEROSITY that others may also in turn give thanks to Him! Sharing with others is one of the great ways in which we can say thank you to the God who is mindful of every aspect of our life.

Have a great day EAGER TO SHARE GOD’S BLESSINGS WITH OTHERS!
Carl

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Living Appreciation!

There is much for which we are and ought to be thankful. We express words of thanks to others on various occasions and should also speak words of thanksgiving to God. Those words of thanks reveal we appreciate what we have received. It may be easy to say the words, but is there another way in which gratitude can be sincerely expressed? Yes -- through the act of THANKSLIVING.

This past Wednesday evening I shared a list of six passages with our congregation and as we looked at each one, we first noted what the text indicated was worthy of our thanks. We then began to list the ways in which that sincere gratitude could be ACTIVELY DEMONSTRATED in our daily lives. One of those passages was from Paul’s letter to the church at Colossae.

Paul encouraged…
“(11) May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, (12) GIVING THANKS TO THE FATHER, WHO HAS QUALIFIED YOU TO SHARE IN THE INHERITANCE OF THE SAINTS IN LIGHT. (13) He HAS DELIVERED US from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, (14) in whom WE HAVE REDEMPTION, the FORGIVENESS OF SINS.” (Colossians 1:11-14 ESV)

For what did Paul indicate thanks should be given? God has “qualified” us for an eternal inheritance. He has also delivered us out of darkness and into the kingdom of Jesus though Whom we have been redeemed and received forgiveness of our sins. Are those not great blessings? Should we not thank God daily for such blessings as these? But how can we translate that thanksgiving into THANKSLIVING?

In verse 10 Paul urged the Colossian brethren to…
“WALK IN A MANNER WORTHY OF THE LORD, fully PLEASING TO HIM, BEARING FRUIT in every good work and INCREASING IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD.” (Colossians 1:10 ESV)

If that is the essence of our daily walk our life will be marked by genuine appreciation for the position in which God has placed us. Knowing we have an inheritance we will share, we should be living in such a manner that it is very evident we understand this life is not all there is to our existence. May we live as ones freed from sin, forgiven and appreciative of God for such blessings and for the inheritance to come by living to please Him, bearing fruit to His glory and praise.

Have a great day LIVING A LIFE THAT SHOUTS “THANK YOU”!
Carl

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Thanks For What We Have!

There was a coal miner who had become well known for his profanity. But when he became a Christian, he was determined to put such language behind him. His fellow workers, questioning his sincerity, attempted to test his new resolve by stealing his dinner pail. As they all awaited his angry response, including plenty of swearing, they were surprised when he replied, “Praise the Lord! I’ve still got my appetite. They can’t take that away!”

Today, being America’s nationally observed “Thanksgiving Day”, we no doubt are thankful for our appetites as we look across our tables of plenty. For some, however, this may not be the circumstances they enjoy. The circumstances of others differ around the world. Our own circumstances also differ from year to year and situation to situation. And yet, there should always be a focus of THANKSGIVING for the blessings that are ours.

Paul exhorted…
“(16) Rejoice always, (17) pray without ceasing, (18) GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES; FOR THIS IS THE WILL OF GOD in Christ Jesus for you.” (I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)

This is the spirit of thankfulness we ought to possess. This is the attitude God wills for us to exhibit in our daily lives. We may lose some things. We may not receive all we desire. We may even have things taken from us. But praise God for that which cannot be taken away. A focus on those things will keep us filled with a thankful attitude in all circumstances.

Therefore, as Paul encouraged…
“(17) And WHATEVER YOU DO, in word or deed, DO EVERYTHING in the name of the Lord Jesus, GIVING THANKS to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:17)

Have a great day OF THANKSGIVING!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/25/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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A Matter Of Trust!

During our recent trip to the Hawaiian island of Oahu, my wife and I each tried something we had never tried before. There was some hesitation at first, but both experiences turned out to be wonderful. Though I am a certified scuba diver, my wife had never even gone snorkeling. She doesn’t particularly care to have her face and ears in the water. However, when she finally agreed to try in the warm waters of Oahu, step by step she became comfortable with my directions for fitting the mask, breathing through the snorkel, floating on the surface of the water, and feeling how the fins would propel her through the water. Then, hand in hand we swam together and floated over rocks and coral enjoying the sight of colorful fish of various kinds. She now wants to do it again.

My own adventure was taking a ride in an aerobatic glider. The goal of my younger brother (who paid for the flight) I found out later was to get his money’s worth by me getting sick during the stunts over the water. (Fortunately for both myself and the pilot I was able to keep my breakfast down.) Prior to each maneuver, the pilot would tell me what the stunt was called, describe it, and then we would go through it. Feeling the strong forces of gravity as the glider would loop up and the sense of weightlessness (and silence) at the top before dropping back down, was truly awesome. I also enjoyed the aerial view across the island of Oahu even while we were upside down.

Both of these experiences required some TRUST IN ANOTHER; trust not in self, but in whom we were in the company. My wife trusted my knowledge and willingness to be patient as she adjusted to floating in the water. Holding my hand, she knew I was still BESIDE her and she could relax and enjoy the viewing. I trusted the PILOT of the glider to maintain control through the g-forces that were experienced, sat back for the ride and the view, and gave no thought to any need for the parachute strapped to my back. That trust in the respective experiences my wife and I went through helped us to relax where we were so that we could enjoy the experience instead of being fearful. TRUST IN ANOTHER is how our life is to be lived.

Solomon exhorted…
“(5) TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, and DO NOT LEAN ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING. (6) In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (7) Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. (8) It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.” (Proverbs 3:5-8 ESV)

Life is filled with situations of trust. Every time we order a meal in a restaurant or get into the car someone else is driving, it is an act of trust. If we are willing to do that with others, why not even more so be willing to put our TRUST CONFIDENTLY IN GOD? Understanding that God -- the Creator and sustainer of life -- knows what He is doing should make it easy for us to place the trust of our whole heart in Him. By doing so, we can then allow Him to use us in ways we might never have imagined and experience the fullness of life that only He can bring. May His PRESENCE calm us regardless of where we are as we allow Him to be the PILOT of our life, knowing He will safely get us home.

Have a great day EXPERIENCING EXHILARATING LIFE WITH GOD!
Carl

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Warding Off Distraction!

Distractions! Their potential draw is all around us. Our attention is caught sometimes for just a moment while other times we are drawn aside to take a closer look. There may even be times when we have to PURPOSELY look another direction because of something we wish not to see. (I recently had such an experience in a restaurant where I kept my gaze out the window until thankfully the distraction left.) To keep from being distracted (or tempted to cheat) dividers are sometimes placed between students taking tests. Horses are at times equipped with blinders -- a pair of flaps attached to the bridle beside each eye -- to keep them looking straight ahead. Since we don’t wear blinders and do not always have the option of dividers placed beside us, it takes a certain amount of DETERMINATION TO MAINTAIN a properly directed view as we journey through life.

Solomon exhorted…
“(24) Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you. (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 4:24-27 ESV)

Solomon made reference to both the positioning of the eyes and the feet. Sometimes we get into trouble when they are aimed different directions. May we keep the turning of our eyes and feet together in being directed straight on the path God desires to lead us in.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A FAITHFUL FOCUS TOWARD GOD!
Carl

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Working For Us!

When people are full, there is often little desire to do much. On the other hand, hunger can serve as a powerful motivator for getting out and earning enough to feed oneself.

Solomon noted…
“A WORKER’S APPETITE WORKS FOR HIM; HIS MOUTH URGES HIM ON.” (Proverbs 16:26 ESV)

Though this worker may work for someone else, his own APPETITE is described as working “for him” to motivate earning what would ultimately provide nourishing strength to the body. Though we serve the Lord as the Master of our life, do we have an APPETITE that motivates us to press on? Do we possess a hunger we know can only find true satisfaction through life lived in connection with Jesus? In life we experience the necessities of strengthening both the body and the spirit and only the right cravings can bring true satisfaction. APPETITE can either work for us or against us. We therefore need to be mindful of what it is we are craving.

Jesus promised…
“Blessed are those who HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS, for they SHALL BE SATISFIED.” (Matthew 5:6 ESV)

When the craving is felt for something one feels they’ve just got to have, one can be powerfully compelled toward it and receive the blessing. May we recognize that great need with regard to spiritual matters as we maintain a craving for the righteousness of God.

Have a great day DEVELOPING A CRAVING THAT WORKS IN OUR FAVOR!
Carl

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Not Lost In Translation!

It can be challenging to go from one language to another. Sometimes concepts get lost in translation due to unavailability of equivalent terms. There are even times when it may take a whole phrase in one language to express what one word made clear in another. However, such phrases can be beautifully expressed.

On our recent trip to Hawaii, I had the opportunity to read from a New Testament translated by Wycliffe Bible Translators. It was a version translated into the Hawaiian pidgin in 2000. While checking out various familiar passages, I was struck by the marvelous translation of the well known and often quoted passage of John 3:16.

In the English Standard Version we read…
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him SHOULD NOT PERISH but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV)

What does it mean to perish? To die! When we think of physical death it is the end of life in the flesh. It is when the body ceases to function. However, to consider death spiritually is to understand it as being separated from God. That is why one can be referred to as being dead even while they live. (note 1 Timothy 5:6) Iniquity or sin separates us from God. (Isaiah 59:2) Jesus is the means of bringing reconciliation to the relationship. To have life in its real sense we must retain our relationship with God. In fact John pointed out that life is in the Son and without the Son there is no life! (1 John 5:11-12)

Now, here is John 3:16 beautifully expressed in Hawaiian pidgin.
“God wen get so plenny love an aloha for da peopo inside da world, dat he wen send me, his one and ony Boy, so dat everybody dat trus me no get cut off from God, but get da real kine life dat stay to da max foeva.”

“NO GET CUT OFF FROM GOD.” Jesus -- the solution to sin’s dilemma and the means of our hope and the real life that stays to the max forever! Could God’s loving provision have been expressed any clearer? May we continue to appropriately respond to God’s loving provision in Christ so that the relationship is maintained forever!

Have a great day FOCUSED FOR LIVING TO THE MAX FOREVER!
Carl

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Continuing Education!

There are some occupations where “continuing education” is a requirement for retaining certification. Technology changes. Advancements are made in medical procedures. There is also the need for simply refreshing the memory of things previously learned. Therefore classes are taken, testing is done, official boards are gone before -- all for the purpose of making sure KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE are keeping up with current needs. Should such be any less important in relation to our spiritual vocation (calling or profession)?

Peter urged…
“But GROW IN THE GRACE AND KNOWLEDGE OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18 ESV)

KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE must go together. However, we cannot PRACTICE what we do not know, so let us grow in our KNOWLEDGE of the Lord’s Will. And what we do know, we are responsible to put into PRACTICE. (i.e. Matthew 7:24-25; Philippians 3:16 and 4:9) Continuing education in spiritual things should be an ongoing thing throughout our life. Just as greater knowledge relating to a particular occupation helps make a better worker or service provider, so it is that greater knowledge of the Lord’s Will serves to increase our effectiveness in living as His servants. May we continue the education process so that we may become all the Lord desires us to be -- to His glory and praise!

Have a great day MAINTAINING A WORKING KNOWLEDGE OF GOD’S WILL!
Carl

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Looking For The Same Thing?

One day while playing basketball in his driveway, a teenager lost one of his contact lenses. After searching unsuccessfully he went inside to inform his mother of the loss. The mother immediately went outside and within a matter of only a few minutes she found the lost contact. Responding to her son’s inquiry as to how she was able to find it she said, “We were not looking for the same thing. You were looking for a small piece of plastic. I was looking for $150.”

Our point of view as to what matters most makes a big difference in what we are searching for in life and the seriousness of the effort expended in the search. If what we have begun the search for loses its VALUE in our eyes, the search may stop prematurely. We may decide it is useless. However, when it comes to that which is of eternal consequence, its VALUE must never be underestimated and the search should continue. As this teenager needed to develop the mother’s view of the VALUE of the item lost, we too need to seek to understand what our HEAVENLY FATHER VALUES!

In pressing the point of how we ought to SEEK the Kingdom of God, Jesus used a parable of one who was involved in a life search for fine pearls.

“(45) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, (46) who, on finding ONE PEARL OF GREAT VALUE, went and SOLD ALL that he had and BOUGHT IT.” (Matthew 13:45-46 ESV)

Here was one who recognized the GREATEST VALUE among all other things. His search was not deterred as he sought that which was of the GREATEST VALUE. He was not distracted by the many other pearls he had acquired along the way. His search continued until he found the one of GREATEST VALUE!

When Jesus told the parable of the lost sheep it did not matter that it was only one sheep among many. That which was lost was worth the search.

Reading Jesus’ own words…
“(12) What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go IN SEARCH OF THE ONE that went astray? (13) And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, HE REJOICES OVER IT MORE THAN OVER THE NINETY-NINE THAT NEVER WENT ASTRAY. (14) So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” (Matthew 18:12-14 ESV)

When value is recognized the search is not given up too soon. What are we seeking? What do we value? Are we looking for the same thing God is? Perhaps like the teenager who was only looking for a small piece of plastic we merely look around us and see people when what we really ought to see is souls HIGHLY VALUED BY GOD and in need of being found for Him. May we seek to keep true VALUE always in perspective as we go about our pursuits throughout life.

Have a great day SEEKING WHAT GOD DESIRES!
Carl

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#18)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

We have noted a number of ways in which God has displayed His love for us and acknowledged the type of response with which His love should be met. I encourage you to continue meditating on God’s great love. Continue to allow His love to be the model for your life.

As Paul stated to the brethren at Thessalonica:
“May the Lord direct your hearts TO THE LOVE OF GOD and to the steadfastness of Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 ESV)

May we keep our affections under the direction of God. This will both serve as a safeguard for our spiritual walk as well as a power toward persevering through this life’s journey. We should have a strong desire to be directed into a life depicted by being around, upon, under, and within God’s all encompassing love. This is the last focus of this series, but praise God His love endures forever!

Have a great day IN GOD’S LOVE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/30/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#17)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

How does God’s love impact our lives? How do we respond to such a love?

Sometimes relationships are viewed from the standpoint of what we might gain from them. Sometimes teens may choose dates based upon the status it might give them among their peers. Sometimes people marry someone they think will be their servant for life. Is that love? True love seeks the best for others rather than seeking solely what might meet self-interests.

Paul used Christ’s love to illustrate the way husbands ought to love their wives.

“(25) Husbands, love your wives, AS CHRIST LOVED THE CHURCH and GAVE HIMSELF up for her, (26) that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, (27) so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.” (Ephesians 5:25-27 ESV)

Christ’s love was displayed through guiding with truth, meeting needs both great and small, and giving His all. TRUE LOVE IS GIVING, NOT TAKING. This ought to be kept in mind in any relationship. In the process of people developing truly loving relationships, needs will ultimately be met as each seeks to benefit the other. This is God’s ideal for marriage. Teens, I encourage you to keep this in mind when the time comes for selecting your life partner. Those who are married, I encourage you to continue to develop this type of loving relationship.

Because Jesus loved, He gave! Are we following in His steps?

Have a great day developing the GIVING LOVE OF CHRIST!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/29/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#16)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

How does God’s love impact our lives? How do we respond to such a love?

God displayed His love not only so that we would come to know it, but also to enable us to know how to use it in our own lives. Love may be expressed and experienced on various levels or to varying degrees in this life. Therefore it is important to be expressing the right type of love.

God’s love is a very “self-less” love. It is a love which reaches out to meet the needs of others. It is a love which reveals the value seen in another’s life.

Paul wrote of his love for the Philippian brethren with these words:
“(7) It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I HOLD YOU IN MY HEART, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. (8) For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all WITH THE AFFECTION OF CHRIST JESUS.” (Philippians 1:7-8 ESV)

What is it to long for and love with the affection of Christ? You may find it interesting to note the Greek word translated “affection” in the NIV is the word for “bowels” or “intestines”. Paul was refering to a deep longing. Jesus loved deeply enough to provide the means of our salvation. Paul loved with that same affection to bring the message of salvation to as many as he could. Though he was chained, it did not keep him from sharing his faith and encouraging those with whom He had already shared. Christ’s love compelled Him in his ministry and it was with the affection of Christ that Paul loved. Paul continually kept Christ in view as the standard for every aspect of His life.

Have a great day using CHRIST’S LOVE as our STANDARD!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/28/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#15)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

How does God’s love impact our lives? How do we respond to such a love?

Those who mean something to God should also mean something to us. If God is our Father, then there should be a kindred spirit between us and our brothers and sisters.

John stated:
“(19) We love because he first loved us. (20) If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. (21) And this commandment we have from him: WHOEVER LOVES GOD MUST ALSO LOVE HIS BROTHER.” (I John 4:19-21 ESV)

God loved first and our love is to simply fall in line with His kind of love. We are to share His loves. In this way we will be more like Him. Remember, God has loved you and me in spite of our quirks and flaws. God’s love has empowered changes in our lives and our love can impact others in that way as well. As God loved us with the hope we would respond in kind, let us act the same toward our brethren. Loving is always the right thing to do.

Have a great day with a KINDRED SPIRIT OF LOVE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/27/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#14)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

How does God’s love impact our lives? How do we respond to such a love?

We respond best to God’s love by being obedient to His Will.

Jesus said to His disciples:
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” (John 14:15 ESV)

Do we love God enough to be more concerned with breaking His heart than breaking His commands. Do we try to live in such a way as to not grieve the Spirit of God? If we live in accordance with such a concern, then we have a proper view of the relationship. We reveal our true love for Him and our deep appreciation for His love by seeking to please Him with the actions of our lives.

Have a great day marked by a LOVING DESIRE TO PLEASE GOD!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/26/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#13)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

How does God’s love impact our lives? How do we respond to such a love? Do we know His love as He desires it to be known? Do we in turn know Him because we know His love?

John wrote:
“Anyone who does not love does not know God, because GOD IS LOVE.” (I John 4:8 ESV)

Now there is a statement that ought to get us thinking! John went on to point out...

“(9) In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. (10) In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (11) Beloved, IF GOD SO LOVED US, WE ALSO OUGHT TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER.” (I John 4:9-11 ESV)

John implied the logical view is that since God has revealed His love to us, we in turn should naturally extend that love to others. God’s love has been poured out on us and is to overflow through our lives. If we truly realize how much God loves us we will acknowledge it is too much love to keep to ourselves. He has displayed His love so that His love may continue to be displayed through our lives. As this great love characterized God, it is to characterize us as well. His love is to be part of the image renewed (Colossians 3:10) within us as we have responded to His love and turned our lives over to Him. Love is to be the mark of our true relationship with Him (John 13:35). Our lives are not to be a dam holding God’s love back and storing it up for ourselves. Our lives should rather be a spigot or a fountain from which God’s love flows to touch the lives of others. However, as this takes place we need to help others see that God is the source of that love; we love, because He first loved us!

Have a great day being a FOUNTAIN FOR GOD!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/25/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#12)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

How does God’s love impact our lives? How do we respond to such a love? Do we trust God’s love?

John stated:
“So we have come to know and to BELIEVE THE LOVE THAT GOD HAS FOR US. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” (I John 4:16 ESV)

If we truly have come to know God’s love then we should have reached a point where we have learned to believe it really is true. His love is reliable because it is true, pure, and steadfast. His love is there to touch every aspect of our lives. His love is there for us during every circumstance of life. His love is there to uphold us in life and death. Therefore His love should serve to sustain our faith, empower our lives and compel us to serve in accordance with His will.

Have a great day RELYING ON GOD’S GREAT LOVE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/24/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#11)

This series was kicked off with the first line of “How do I Love Thee?” written by Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Yesterday I shared the poem in its entirety and there are many focuses we might draw simply by focusing on segments of that poem. We noted in yesterday’s focus the idea of the depth, breadth and height of love, but did you notice how she ended her poem with the statement:

“and, if God choose, I shall but love thee better after death.”

Does that seem like a strange thought? Yet as we have considered God’s great love for us and all the ways in which He has displayed it, His love has been focused on ultimately bringing us to Him!

The Psalmist wrote:
“PRECIOUS in the sight of the LORD is THE DEATH OF HIS SAINTS.” (Psalm 116:15 ESV)

Death is not the end. God has provided the means of victory over death. For us to die is to be eternally in His presence. When the end of our walk here comes, so does the end of our struggles. When our journey here is complete our loving Father gets to bring us home!

The death of the wicked is not a blessed picture, but the death of those who belong to God is PRECIOUS in His sight because of the PRECIOUS eternity which He has in store for His own. Oh, how He loves us! Oh, what He has prepared for us! Oh, how He wants us to dwell with Him for eternity!

Have a great day PRECIOUS in the sight of God!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/23/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#10)

As we kicked off this series with the first line of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s poem, let me now share it in its entirety as we make a shift toward focusing on our response to God’s great love.

HOW DO I LOVE THEE?
HOW do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday’s
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood’s faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, - I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! - and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
-- Elizabeth Barrett Browning
[Source: “ The Great Minds Library” CD, 1997 Intellection, Inc]

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

Oh, how much He loves us! Oh, the many ways He has revealed His love for us! How could we ever possibly question His love? God so desires for us to know that love!

Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians brethren was this:
“(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)

God is love (I John 4:8) and He has loved us with every aspect of His Being! As we acknowledge how great God’s love is for us we then need to consider how we are responding to that love.

Jesus stated the greatest command as this:
“And you shall LOVE the Lord your God with ALL YOUR HEART and with all your SOUL and with all your MIND and with all your STRENGTH.” (Mark 12:30 ESV)

As God has loved us with the DEPTH, BREADTH, and HEIGHT of His Being, His desire is for us to respond with love in the same way. If we have truly come to know how WIDE, LONG, HIGH and DEEP the Lord’s love for us is then we will not be able to help ourselves from responding in like manner.

Have a great day responding to God with your WHOLE BEING!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/22/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#9)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

Success is sweet. To be able to accomplish something in spite of huge obstacles is victory from which arises great jubilation. In God’s great love He has provided the means for victory.

In that marvelously uplifting eighth chapter of Paul’s letter to Rome we read…

“No, in all these things we are MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH HIM WHO LOVED US.” (Romans 8:37 ESV)

God’s love has provided the means to not just be conquerors (victors), but to be “more than conquerors”. His love takes us beyond just overcoming. He has provided the means to overcome more than just the things of this life, but on into eternity as well. We will be blessed with having spiritually overcome everything that attempted to keep us from God. This will be accomplished by the power God will work in us. God makes us more than conquerors in His provision linked to purposes which extend far beyond this realm, things of which we are only able to glimpse now. In our relationship to God we are lead in victory not only over physical forces which may take their stand against us (such as persecution and even death), but also over the spiritual forces (Satan’s efforts to deceive and ensnare). God, in His great love for us, has promised to deliver us to be where He is that we can dwell with Him for eternity. He brings us a surpassing victory!

Have a great day knowing GOD’S LOVE makes you MORE THAN A WINNER!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/21/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#8)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

I remember a song several years ago with the refrain “If you can’t love the one you love, love the one you’re with.” I don’t believe in that philosophy, but many in this world seem to have accepted it as the norm for their lives. Though miles may separate us from those we love, does that cause us to cease to love? Not if the love is genuine. Another phrase that has been around for a long time is: “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.” When the love is true; when the love is genuine; when the love is grounded; when the love is pure; what is there that can separate us from that love.

Oh, how Divine love has been expressed to us. Oh, how powerful that love is. Note the great encouragement noted by Paul in his letter to the church at Rome.

“(35) Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? … (38) For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, (39) nor height nor depth, NOR ANYTHING ELSE in all creation, WILL BE ABLE TO SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD.”(Romans 8:35, 38-39 ESV)

Does that thought make you sit up and say, “WOW”? Do you acknowledge that is the love God has for you? Do you sense the power in that love? Do you feel the cords of that love binding you securely in your relationship to Him? That is the way God want’s us to know His love for us. WOW! What a love!

Have a great day knowing the SECURITY of GOD’S LOVE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/20/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#7)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

Love! Some seem to “fall in love” and “fall out of love” so easily. Is there anything to love? Maybe it is that love -- true love -- has not been understood. True love goes deep. True love is steadfast. And God’s love is true! God’s love is eternal. God’s love will always be as He will always be. Because God’s love is eternal there are eternal blessings of which we are assured.

In his second letter to the church in Thessalonica, Paul noted…
“(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)

God has shown His love through providing encouragement and hope, not just for this life, but for eternity. His love is not a fleeting thing. His love is not just the passion of the moment. God’s love is linked to His plan for eternity.

The Psalmist stated:
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for HIS STEADFAST LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!” (Psalm 118:29 ESV)

Yes, thank you Lord, for such a love as Yours!

Have a great day knowing God’s ETERNAL LOVE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/19/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#6)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

Love seeks out and thrives in relationships. This is the great work of God’s love: to reconcile and provide a sense of belonging. This is God’s hope! This is God’s aim! And God has provided the means for a relationship with Him.

John encouraged…
“SEE WHAT KIND OF LOVE THE FATHER HAS GIVEN TO US, that we should BE CALLED CHILDREN OF GOD; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” (I John 3:1 ESV)

Oh, to have God’s love lavished [NIV] on us! Oh, to know He has heaped His love upon us to have us known as His children. Oh, to know and experience our Father’s love.

Have a great day knowing the FATHER’S LOVE as His child!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/18/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#5)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

God is the One who can take that which is nothing and make it something. He is the Creator of all things. He is the Giver of life. He is also the Great Renewer of life.

In his letter to Ephesus Paul wrote…
“(4) But GOD, being rich in mercy, BECAUSE OF THE GREAT LOVE WITH WHICH HE LOVED US, (5) EVEN WHEN WE WERE DEAD IN OUR TRESPASSES, MADE US ALIVE TOGETHER WITH CHRIST -- by grace you have been saved.” (Ephesians 2:4-5 ESV)

Sin separates us from God and thus, while living in sin, we were spiritually dead. However, God, because of His great love, mercifully provided the means by which we could be delivered from death to life. God did not wait for us to attempt to revive ourselves. That was not possible. He, the Author of life, was the One who had the power to provide the means of renewing life and that is what He did through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Because Christ lives we can live a life that is “truly life” (I Timothy 6:19) now and for eternity.

Have a great day knowing God’s RENEWING LOVE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/17/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Oh How I Love Thee! (#4)

God looks upon us -- “How do I love you? Let me help you count the ways.”

People who love us and treat us fairly are easy to love. Where we find ourselves struggling with love is when it comes to those who have not been kind to us. In those situations the love has to be a decision. That is the only way we will be able to love our enemies as Jesus commanded in His sermon on the Mount. And God has been the example of such a love.

In Paul’s letter to the church at Rome he stated…
“(6) For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. (7) For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die -- (8) but GOD SHOWS HIS LOVE FOR US IN THAT WHILE WE WERE STILL SINNERS, CHRIST DIED FOR US.” (Romans 5:6-8 ESV)

God’s great love has been displayed through His willingness to love us even when we were still in sin. He did not wait for us to get our act together or become deserving of His love before He was willing to provide the means of salvation. While we were still powerless, the power to deal adequately with our sins was fulfilled through the cross. Our need was met with the anticipation that we would respond to God’s great love. What a demonstration of love! What a benefit His love has provided! What a love to respond to and put into practice in our own lives!

Have a great day knowing God’s DECISIVE LOVE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/16/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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