A Power Passage!

Every time we read through the Scriptures we ought to allow the power of God’s message to speak to us and strengthen our faith for powerful living. However, there are some passages that seem so packed with power there is a sense in which we should perhaps feel the buzz of the high voltage contained therein as we personally connect it to our life.

Throughout Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus, he used some powerful expressions relating to God, our Lord, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the greatness of God’s love and the hope of which we as Christians ought to feel the assurance. One of these “power passages” is toward the last verses of the first chapter. We will begin the passage mid-sentence because most of this chapter (in the Greek) is one very long sentence anyway. Inserted in brackets are four Greek words to which I wish to draw attention.

We read. . .
“(18) having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, (19) and what is the immeasurable greatness of HIS POWER [(Gk.) DUNAMEOS] toward us who believe, according to the WORKING [(Gk.) ENERGEIAN] of his great MIGHT [Gk. “tou KRATOUS tes ISCHUOS autou”, “of the strength of the strength of Him”] (20) that he WORKED [(Gk. ENERGESEN)] in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,” (Ephesians 1:18-20)

In verse nineteen alone Paul used four different words drawing attention to the POWER OF GOD. The first is from “DUNAMIS” which refers to power or ability and is the word Nobel thought of when he named his invention dynamite. The second is from “ENERGIA” which refers to work or working power and we might do well to notice its similarity to the English word “energy.” The third is from “KRATOS” which refers to power or strength. The fourth is from “ISCHUS” (or “ischys”) which points to ability, force, or strength.

Do we get the idea Paul did not want the WORKING of GOD’S POWER and STRENGTH to be missed in this text? Based on the reality of GOD’S POWER working in us and on our behalf is the connection on which Paul would eventually point to our salvation being brought about by the WORK OF GOD rather than by our own works. (Ephesians 2:8) If salvation were based on our own ability, power, or works we could not have the assurance that is ours based on the POWERFUL WORKING of God that makes it possible.

May we never read the above passage the same again, but instead be encouraged by the POWER OF GOD that works mightily on our behalf and in our life. Acknowledging GOD’S ABILITY to do everything He has said He will do can impact us for powerful living as we trustingly live to serve His purposes in this realm.

Have a great day LIVING LIFE PLUGGED INTO GOD’S POWER PANEL!
Carl

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Virtuous Impatience?

Impatience is usually considered a bad thing. When we get impatient with a job we may rush through and not fulfill it in the best manner possible. When we get impatient with others we generally push them away from us. Impatience is often accompanied by a sense of annoyance or frustration. It is patience that is referred to as a virtue; being an admirable quality or mark of moral goodness. Solomon noted that one who “is slow to anger” (such would be the exercise of patience) “is better than the mighty.” (Proverbs 16:32) Paul pointed to patience as being a fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22) and also a characteristic of godly love. (1 Corinthians 13:4) However, could impatience also be a virtue? Are there situations where impatience is a good response? Are there times when we are struck by the sense enough is enough?

Praise God for His patience! (2 Peter 3:9) Every day that the coming of our Lord is withheld is an opportunity for repentance and acceptance of the salvation made possible through Christ. We should also, however, BE THANKFUL for God’s impatience.

During the time of the judges we read. . .
“(15) And the people of Israel said to the LORD, ‘We have sinned; do to us whatever seems good to you. Only please deliver us this day.’ (16) So they put away the foreign gods from among them and served the LORD, AND HE BECAME IMPATIENT OVER THE MISERY OF ISRAEL.” (Judges 10:15-16 ESV)

Enough was enough! Though Israel had continued to fall back into doing their own thing (Judges 2:18-19) following the death of every judge God raised up to save them (Judges 2:16), He was still again and again moved to pity (Judges 2:18) when they cried out to Him and was willing to be merciful toward His people. The glory of God is His goodness and graciousness. Such is evidenced by both His patience and impatience. Because of God’s impatience over the suffering of Israel, He acted on their behalf and they were delivered from their oppressors.

As Jesus appeared to make reference to the things associated with the destruction of Jerusalem and a time of great persecution, He offered the encouragement that GOD WOULD CUT THAT TIME SHORT. (Matthew 24:22) God would place a limit on it, not allowing the trials to go on and on in order to ensure salvation would be possible. Unlike mankind, GOD KNOWS WHERE TO DRAW THE LINE. (note David’s trusting view of God in this regard -- 2 Samuel 24:14)

A day is coming when God’s impatience with an unbelieving world will bring to full fruition the promise of complete and final deliverance of those who have rightfully acknowledged Him. (2 Peter 3:10-13) Let us therefore BE THANKFUL for both the patience (further opportunity to be right with Him) and impatience (not allowing the suffering of His people to go on any longer) of God. As His people, these are both blessings that work for us in accordance with His plan. May we continue to hold the hope in Christ out to others as we exercise patience in awaiting the impatience of God. His timing will be right!

Have a great day PRAISING GOD FOR HIS GRACIOUS GOODNESS!
Carl

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Who Will Be There!

Sometimes the thing that determines whether or not we will go someplace is who it is we know will be there. Perhaps the decision would then be based on either our own personal desire to go or a sense of duty in that the presence of another specific individual might require our attendance. What is it that draws us to assemble when the church comes together?

The story has been told of a tourist visiting Washington D.C., who called the minister of a church where the President often attended. The tourist wanted to know if the President was expected to worship there that particular Sunday. The minister replied, “That I don’t know for certain, but I can tell you we are expecting God to be here, and we hope His presence will attract a sizeable crowd.” [original source unknown]

Though a worshipful life should not be restricted to an hour or two a week within the confines of a church building, our gathering for the purpose of worshipping together should be seen as a vital part of our Christian walk. However, there are various things that seem to attract people to a worship assembly. For some it’s the physical atmosphere of a grand structure that causes them to feel they are in a very holy place. Others may be attracted by the singing or a particular sermon subject advertised. Still others may be there because of certain individuals they hope to see or simply to be seen themselves. Though our assembling together provides the opportunity to greatly encourage one another (note Hebrews 10:24), how much consideration do we give to the idea of it being one of the places where we as an individual MEET GOD in true worship and praise.

Under the Old Law, when Israel came to the tabernacle -- and then later to the Temple -- the people viewed themselves as coming into THE PRESENCE OF GOD. Under the New we MEET GOD THROUGH CHRIST. Jesus encouraged His disciples regarding HIS PRESENCE when he said. . .

“FOR WHERE TWO OR THREE ARE GATHERED IN MY NAME, THERE AM I AMONG THEM.” (Matthew 18:20 ESV)

Without the presence of each other we would miss something valuable in the fellowship of worship. (i.e. Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 10:24-25) However, let us continually be conscious of OUR LORD’S PRESENCE. Also, we ought to be mindful of our reason for assembling and that the manner in which we worship -- which must be “in spirit and truth” since that is the kind of worshippers the Father seeks (John 4:23-24) -- is to ultimately PLEASE HIM. Our relationship to the Lord means we also have one with each other as members of His Body (the church), but it is our rightful focus on HIS ABIDING PRESENCE that aids us in keeping everything else in proper perspective. Therefore, since HE WILL BE THERE, let us be also!

Have a great day DESIRING TO BE WHEREVER THE LORD IS!
Carl

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Coming Over Us! (part 2 of 2)

As we noted yesterday, there are times when people have feelings come over them that cannot be fully explained or understood. When we experience such, not only can we be empowered by those feelings, but they can also cause those around us to be in wonder regarding our approach to life. Yesterday we noted the peace that surpasses understanding Paul referred to in his letter to the church at Philippi. (Philippians 4:5-7) Today, let us consider another empowering sensation he pointed out.

In Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus we read. . .
“(19) and to know THE LOVE OF CHRIST THAT SURPASSES KNOWLEDGE, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:19)

Perhaps there are times when we do not understand the way of LOVE. (note Proverbs 30:18-19) We may even be amazed at what some have done in the name of LOVE. However, there is great power in genuine LOVE that may truly defy description! Does the LOVE of God or of Christ make sense to us? We certainly do not deserve it! Nevertheless, God’s LOVE was clearly shown while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8) and Jesus clearly demonstrated His LOVE for us in a sacrificial manner. (note John 15:13) Have we come to view the LOVE OF CHRIST from the standpoint it is so enormous and deep that it defies adequate description? Are we powerfully compelled to press on in the wonder of it all?

Coming to know more fully the LOVE OF CHRIST can become a powerful motivator in causing us to serve others out of a deep appreciation for how much we ourselves are loved by the Lord. That acknowledgement should also powerfully motivate us to seek to please the Lord in all things. (i.e. John 14:15) It was the LOVE OF CHRIST that continued to control (ESV) or compel (NKJV) Paul in his ministry. (2 Corinthians 5:14) No wonder we see him as an amazing servant of the Lord. May “THE LOVE OF CHRIST THAT SURPASSES KNOWLEDGE” be allowed to touch our life in such a compelling way that those around us will be caused to wonder and ultimately be drawn to the Lord Who has LOVINGLY provided the means of eternal life.

Have a great day EXPERIENCING LOVE’S COMPELLING POWER FOR LIVING!
Carl

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Coming Over Us! (part 1 of 2)

“I don’t know what came over me?” Those words have been stated when actions have taken place that might not ordinarily be done, whether they be of a negative or positive nature. Focusing on the positive, there have been times people have responded to a situation with greater bravery, calm, or strength than they ever imagined they could possess under the circumstances. What was done could not be explained other than it having been what the situation called for. Some explain it in accordance with the body’s rush of adrenaline. Others may simply call it “will” power! Still others might call it the power of love! Even the word “miracle” gets used at times.

There are also times people have feelings come over them that they cannot fully understand. It just happens and may be experienced in a manner that aids in hanging in there or moving on even in the midst of trying times. Does such mark our life experience in any way because of our relationship with Christ? There are at least two things Paul mentioned that we as Christians can experience even though we may not be able to fully comprehend or explain them. Let us consider the first one today and (Lord Willing) the second tomorrow.

To the church at Philippi Paul wrote. . .
“(5) Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; (6) do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (7) And THE PEACE OF GOD, WHICH SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:5-7 ESV)

The peace Jesus came to give is not the same as that on which the world focuses. (note John 14:27 and John 16:33) The world views PEACE as being “from” or “around” while the PEACE we can experience as Christians is “in spite of”. This becomes the experience because we know there are greater things of significance than just what happens in this realm. It is possible to have a lack of PEACE around us and still have a sense of PEACE within as we trust in God to work things out according to His timetable and Will.

Has this sense of PEACE come over us that is beyond explanation because of the relationship we have with God through Christ? Have there been life situations when others have observed a sense of PEACE in us when such did not appear to make sense with everything going on around us? Has our focus on our relationship to God made a visible difference in our approach to life’s chaotic and challenging moments? When our focus is fixed on God and the hope He has assured us of in Christ, we can experience a PEACE that exceeds our understanding (and that of the world) as it powerfully instills in us a calming faith that aids us in patiently hanging in there as we press on in spite of adversity. May such a sense of PEACE become the wonder of those around us.

Have a great day EXPERIENCING GOD’S AWESOME INSIDE JOB!
Carl

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Maximum Benefit!

What does God’s Word do for us? As we read it, what impact is it having on our life? For one thing we should be gaining insight into the Mind and Will of God. We also ought to be receiving direction for the activity of our life as we note things we should not do and those things we should. However, every time we read through the pages of Scripture, we ought to also be allowing God’s message to instill greater FAITH in us so that we will BELIEVE what ought to be accepted. If not, we could either be led astray by other ideas or will not be duly impacted or have our reasoning capabilities empowered by what we are reading. That is the case with those who can read the Scriptures and walk away without having benefited from them. Such was the challenge for some who listened to Jesus teach as He walked upon this earth.

John recorded. . .
“(37) And the Father who sent me has himself borne witness about me. His voice you have never heard, his form you have never seen, (38) and YOU DO NOT HAVE HIS WORD ABIDING IN YOU, FOR YOU DO NOT BELIEVE the one whom he has sent. (39) YOU SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES BECAUSE YOU THINK THAT IN THEM YOU HAVE ETERNAL LIFE; and it is they that bear witness about me, (40) YET YOU REFUSE TO COME TO ME THAT YOU MAY HAVE LIFE.” (John 5:37-40 ESV)

Here were some who thought they knew the Word of God, but in fact did not truly know the God Who gave it! They could have told the number of letters in the text, but were missing the spiritual truths contained within the message! Thus they set themselves up for not BELIEVING the WORD that came in the flesh. (John 1:14) Because they did not have God’s Word abiding in them, Jesus went on to point out they also did “not have the love of God within” them. (John 5:42)

Let us not be like these who could not see “the truth” (John 14:6) that was standing right in front of them. More than in our hands, God’s Word needs to abide within us to not only give proper direction to our daily life, but also to help us BELIEVE what is to be rightfully acknowledged! Let us not just read to read, but read to BELIEVE, allowing God’s message to continue to “wow” us! As we seek to retain the truth of God’s Word alive within us, may our living clearly reveal we do BELIEVE!

Have a great day EXPERIENCING THE SEEING THAT COMES BY BELIEVING!
Carl

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Sustainable Future!

“Sustainable” is a word thrown around in many circles of life today. There are organizations that focus on housing for a “sustainable future.” The timber industry refers to resource management for a “sustainable future.” Power companies have done the same. We also have references to sustainable agriculture. What is meant by “sustainable”? It generally refers to the ability to maintain something, often being used with regard to maintaining ecological balance in this world. Recently I saw a food service van with the slogan, “Food Services For A Sustainable Future!” However, how sustainable is it all? Though we should be mindful of the wise use of this world’s resources, is that truly the key to a “sustainable future”?

“Food Services For A Sustainable Future!” There is no question we need food -- especially nutritious food -- to sustain good health. Nevertheless, when the devil tried to get Jesus to focus on feeding the physical hunger, our Lord responded as follows:

“But he answered, ‘It is written, MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT COMES FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD.’’” (Matthew 4:4 ESV)

We need food, but sustaining physical health is really of no consequence if we fail to focus on our spiritual health as well. The physical needs only relate to this life and may sustain us for a lifetime, but nothing more.

Later on during our Lord’s ministry He encouraged. . .
“Truly, truly, I say to you, WHOEVER HEARS MY WORD AND BELIEVES HIM WHO SENT ME HAS ETERNAL LIFE. He does not come into judgment, but HAS PASSED FROM DEATH TO LIFE.” (John 5:24 ESV)

Not just life for now, but ETERNAL LIFE! There is more to focus on than merely this present realm. It is that which relates to the ETERNAL “sustainable future” we must never neglect.

In the previous chapter of John, on an occasion when Jesus’ disciples returned with food they had gotten while He had been talking to the Samaritan woman at the well, Jesus told them He had food to eat of which they did not know. (John 4:32) This caused them to wonder if someone had already brought Him something to eat. (John 4:33) Then we read. . .

“Jesus said to them, ‘MY FOOD IS TO DO THE WILL OF HIM WHO SENT ME AND TO ACCOMPLISH HIS WORK.’” (John 4:34)

For some, their existence may boil down to working to eat and eating to work. However, when it comes to being involved in fulfilling the works of God, we will find that in itself can provide some sustaining power with regard to our spiritual health.

Therefore, there is the full diet we need; the nutritional food for the soul that truly provides for an ETERNAL “sustainable future”. The slogan mentioned above made use of the words “FOOD” and “SERVICES” in relation to a “sustainable future”, but in a spiritual sense that is the key to a SUSTAINABLE ETERNITY! May our life be properly sustained through the TAKING IN OF THE WORD and the “FOOD” OF SERVING in accordance with THE WILL of God. Therein we can truly find satisfaction.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A SPIRITUALLY NOURISHED LIFE!
Carl

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Anticipatory Reflection!

I find it confusing to watch a television series or a movie that seems to bounce around between the present, THE PAST, and THE FUTURE. There is sometimes difficulty in keeping the story straight when the scenes change and it takes a few moments to realize what time period is actually being represented. Nevertheless, though I find it sometimes confusing, I also find it somewhat intriguing in the way the script has been written. Now, when we think about it, is that not the way our mind often works? We get involved in activities that at times cause us to think of THE PAST and perhaps at other times make us consider THE FUTURE. As full as the mind is with MEMORIES OF THE PAST and HOPES FOR THE FUTURE, that bouncing around of the mind can be quite sudden.

When Paul offered some instruction to the church at Corinth in getting their focus properly fixed when they came together to partake of the Lord’s supper, he mentioned two time periods in connection with the Lord. We read. . .

“(23) For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that THE LORD JESUS ON THE NIGHT WHEN HE WAS BETRAYED took bread, (24) and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, ‘This is my body which is for you. Do this IN REMEMBRANCE of me.’ (25) In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, IN REMEMBRANCE of me.’ (26) For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, YOU PROCLAIM THE LORD’S DEATH UNTIL HE COMES.” (1 Corinthians 11:23-26 ESV)

As the Christians at Corinth focused on their present participation with one another in sharing the Lord’s supper, they were to REFLECT BACK on Jesus’ institution of it, remembering His body and blood given on their (and our) behalf. REFLECTING BACK on the Lord was to help them maintain a proper frame of mind and purpose in what they were doing. The redemption and cleansing Christ’s death made possible was not to be forgotten.

There was also a LOOKING AHEAD that was to come to mind in the present partaking. As the Lord’s supper was participated in, through the eating of the bread and drinking of the cup they were proclaiming the death of the Lord “UNTIL HE COMES.” Therefore we see that along with the REFLECTING BACK to the cross there was also an ANTICIPATION TOWARD the Lord’s second coming.

Praise the Lord He gave Himself for our sins “once for all.” (Romans 6:10 & Hebrews 7:27; 10:10) That PAST ACT provides a present glorious blessing. And praise the Lord He is coming back again. (Acts 1:11 & 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18) That FUTURE act is part of our glorious hope! As we daily think about the wonderful relationship we have with Christ, may our REFLECTING BACK cause us to also LOOK FORWARD to the eternity we will share with Him.

Have a great day REJOICING TO KNOW THE ONE WHO IS, WAS, AND IS TO COME!
Carl

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teEn-MAIL -- Not there!

Luke recorded. . .
“(1) But ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. (2) And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, (3) but when they went in THEY DID NOT FIND THE BODY OF THE LORD JESUS. (4) While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. (5) And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, ‘WHY DO YOU SEEK THE LIVING AMONG THE DEAD? (6) HE IS NOT HERE, BUT HAS RISEN. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, (7) that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and ON THE THIRD DAY RISE.’” (Luke 24:1-7 ESV)

Here Luke provided his historical account of the women going to the tomb to complete the embalming they had prepared to do. (Luke 23:56) Mark tells us that on the way they discussed the matter of needing someone to roll the stone away. (Mark 16:3) However, God had already taken care of that. Was it for Jesus’ escape from the tomb? Jesus -- Who could pass through a closed and locked door (note John 20:19 & 26) -- did not need the tomb opened in order to rise. The tomb needed to be opened so it could be seen He was no longer there. Death had no hold on our Lord. (Acts 2:24)

It is absurd to seek the living among the dead. It is not among the dead that Jesus will be found. Unlike all the great prophets and teachers of the world whose tombs can be visited, Jesus -- the Messiah, Savior, Son of God, Lord of lords, King of kings -- is “alive forevermore” holding “the keys of Death and Hades.” (Revelation 1:18) That is why even before our Lord’s arrest and crucifixion He could encourage the disciples with the words, “BECAUSE I LIVE, YOU ALSO WILL LIVE.” (John 14:19 ESV)

Paul affirmed. . .
“(20) But IN FACT CHRIST HAS BEEN RAISED from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. (21) For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. (22) For as in Adam all die, so also IN CHRIST SHALL ALL BE MADE ALIVE. (23) But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming THOSE WHO BELONG TO CHRIST.” (1 Corinthians 15:20-23 ESV)

Because OUR LORD LIVES we have the ASSURANCE OF ETERNAL LIFE as well. The power over death that His resurrection reveals assures us of the victory over death He provides for us. (1 Corinthians 15:54-57) Just like our Lord, the grave will not keep its hold on us because of His power of life! Praise God for a LIVING LORD who holds the keys and has opened up the way for a glorious eternity with Him. May we continue to seek Him and His Will with that TRUE LIFE in mind.

Have a great day KNOWING HIS LIFE MEANS OURS!
Carl

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Love! (part 3 of 3)

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” That was the second greatest commandment our Lord mentioned to one who questioned Him. (Mark 12:31) As we noted yesterday, we know how we want to be treated. Also, if we love ourselves enough to take care of ourselves and seek our highest good, then that is a good basis on which to love others. However, how consistent is that standard? It is certainly not a perfect standard since we are not perfect individuals. We may not always even love ourselves as we ought. If the manner in which we love ourselves is the standard, when we lack a healthy sense of love for self won’t that affect the manner in which we love others? Are there not people who really don’t like themselves? Have we ever experienced such moments in our own life? This appears to point toward the need for yet a HIGHER AND MORE CONSISTENT STANDARD for loving others than what self-love can provide!

Prior to Jesus’ death, He said to His disciples. . .
“(34) A NEW COMMANDMENT I give to you, that you love one another: JUST AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34 ESV)

This is different than the manner in which Jesus responded to the one to whom He stated the greatest and second greatest commandments. (Mark 12:29-31) Jesus here even stated He was giving the disciples “a new commandment.” That “new commandment” was associated with a NEW AND HIGHER STANDARD for loving others than using self as the model. As Christians, self is no longer to be the standard, but rather CHRIST’S LOVE is to be the model after which our love for others is to be patterned. Our love for others is not to be based on the pre-eminent law of the Jews (Leviticus 19:18), but on the PERFECT LOVE OF JESUS! Under Christ, the bar has been raised. In Him a new standard has been set. It is a DIVINE LOVE we need to grow in for one another. That is where we can find consistency for loving others.

Jesus went on to state. . .
“(35) BY THIS ALL PEOPLE WILL KNOW THAT YOU ARE MY DISCIPLES, IF YOU HAVE LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER.” (John 13:35 ESV)

Loving in this way clearly IDENTIFIES US WITH JESUS because we are loving in the manner in which He loves and desires us to love; a love modeled after HIS DIVINE LOVE. Ordinary love is not good enough. What this world needs is to be DIVINELY LOVED! With self-love no longer as the standard, self is less likely to get in the way, thus providing the growth of healthy relationships unified in the Lord. Praise God for a DIVINE STANDARD OF LOVE that can bring God glorifying consistency into our life connections with others.

Have a great day COMPELLED IN ACTION BY THE LOVE OF CHRIST!
Carl

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Love! (part 2 of 3)

Yesterday we noted what Jesus addressed as the most important commandment of the law. Though that is what related specifically to the question He was asked, Jesus did not stop there. Jesus went on to state the second greatest commandment as well.

We read. . .
“(31) ‘The second is this: ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.’” (Mark 12:31 ESV)

This quotation was from Leviticus 19:18. According to Matthew’s account, Jesus stated the love for God and the love for others commanded in these texts was what formed a foundation on which rested “all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:40) Though Jesus was asked regarding the most important commandment, He didn’t stop there, but went on to give the second, seeming to imply we cannot stop with loving God even though that love rightfully goes deep! We also MUST LOVE ONE ANOTHER!

To love God with the entire being would cause one to seek what pleases Him and to properly LOVE OTHERS will cause us to refrain from dishonest actions toward them and instead compel us to be considerate, kind, and respectful with regard to what is theirs. Paul referred to this love as the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8 & 10; Galatians 5:14) while James referred to this command of how others are to be loved as the “royal law.” (James 2:8) Even this second commandment was clearly portrayed as a significant one.

“You shall love your neighbor AS YOURSELF.” How deep is that love? Just like the love we are to have for God, our LOVE FOR OTHERS is not to be merely a surface thing. It is a love that is to go deep into the consideration of how we ourselves wish to be treated. We know how we want others to be toward us. We also generally seek to take good care of ourselves, providing what is needed to sustain our life. Do we take that into consideration as we interact with those around us?

According to Luke’s account, this one who questioned Jesus then wanted to justify himself by asking “who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29) This provided the occasion for the parable of the good Samaritan. It strikes me that if we find ourselves either trying to justify or rationalize who we ought to love, that in itself may be an indication we do not yet know God’s love or how to love as we ought. As love is to touch every aspect of our being, love is to also be the basis for all our actions.

How well are we doing with this standard for LOVING OTHERS? Is SELF-LOVE an adequate basis by which to measure our LOVE FOR OTHERS? Lord willing we will address that more tomorrow. For now let us fully come to grips with the reality that LOVING GOD IMPLIES WE LOVE OTHERS ALSO. (note also 1 John 4:20-21) May that love have proper depth in our life.

Have a great day TREATING OTHERS AS WE WISH TO BE TREATED!
Carl

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Love! (part 1 of 3)

There was an occasion when one came to Jesus asking which commandment was the most important. This question followed on the heels of several attempts to trap Jesus with questions. However, this question seemed to focus on what it all boiled down to. Though some may have emphasized various aspects of the law, what would this teacher, Jesus, focus on as the greatest of all the commands?

We read. . .
“(29) Jesus answered, ‘The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. (30) 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 12:29-30 ESV)

Jesus’ response was from Deuteronomy 6:4-5. It was on the basis of this command that the nation of Israel was instructed to educate their children with a proper focus toward God and His commands. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9) It was a foundational command for life!

The LOVE FOR GOD addressed in those words should be seen as A VERY DEEP LOVE. Jesus quoted those words as the pre-eminent law of the Jews. It is a love that requires the INVOLVEMENT OF OUR ENTIRE BEING; a love that impacts our affections, reaches deep into the depths of our soul, encompasses our thinking, and empowers our life. There is no aspect of our being that should not be turned toward God. Does that mark THE DEPTH OF OUR LOVE? Is every aspect of our being properly drawn toward Him and His Sovereign Will?

Jesus answered this man’s question, but He did not stop there. Though asked about the most important commandment, He went on to mention the second. Perhaps we should understand that though a proper love for God is of the utmost importance, we cannot be satisfied with only that! Lord willing we will consider Jesus’ further statement tomorrow. In the mean time, let us continue to focus on THE DEPTH OF OUR LOVE FOR GOD and how it impacts our daily actions and focus.

Have a great day VIEWING GOD AS THE LOVE OF OUR ENTIRE BEING!
Carl

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Good Enough?

God -- under the leadership of Moses -- put into motion the plan to deliver Israel from bondage in Egypt and GIVE THEM a land described as “a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey.” (Exodus 3:8; Deuteronomy 31:20) During the journey there were numerous times the nation thought returning to Egypt would be better, but the blessing of a land God was going to GIVE THEM was described as not being like the land of Egypt where they had sown their “seed and irrigated it, like a garden of vegetables” (Deuteronomy 11:10), but instead a land that drank “water by the rain from heaven” (Deuteronomy 11:11); a land that the LORD their “God cares for.” (Deuteronomy 11:12)

Even in view of this blessing, there were some who chose to stop short and settle for less than what GOD DESIRED TO GIVE THEM. They saw something they determined was “good enough” and asked if they could settle there. The tribes of Reuben and Gad saw the land on the east side of the Jordan as a place good for livestock and asked if they could have that land instead. (Numbers 32:1-5) They were joined in this desire by half of the tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 32:33) Moses’ first reaction was that their desire would discourage the rest of the nation from entering as had happened prior to the forty years of wandering in the wilderness. (Numbers 32:6-15) However, upon their agreement to go ahead of the other tribes and lead in the fight and not return to the land east of the Jordan until after the rest of the nation received their inheritance (Numbers 32:16-27) Moses agreed to let them have the portion they requested.

We read…
“AND MOSES GAVE TO THEM, to the people of Gad and to the people of Reuben and to the half-tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land and its cities with their territories, the cities of the land throughout the country.” (Numbers 32:33 ESV)

Though God apparently tolerated this choice, what strikes me is these two and a half tribes asked for less than what God was ready to GIVE THEM and took what “Moses gave to them” as “good enough”! Under the leadership of Joshua, they were content to receive as “their inheritance” the land “which Moses gave them, beyond the Jordan eastward.” (Joshua 13:8)

How many times is that what we have done? How often have we settled for what man can offer as “good enough” instead of keeping our focus on what GOD DESIRES TO GIVE?

In Jesus’ sermon on the mount He dealt with such an attitude in relation to three actions of life. With regard to those who gave to the needy in such a manner as to receive the praise of men, who prayed for the purpose of drawing the attention and praise of others, and who fasted in a fashion that others would be sure to notice them, Jesus stated for each of these three that “Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.” (Matthew 6:2, 5, & 16) They had become content with receiving the praise of others and stopped short of receiving the blessing GOD DESIRED TO GIVE. These actions done in a proper manner with the right attitude will be met with the ultimate blessing that “your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:4, 6, & 18)

Let us be encouraged we don’t have to settle for just what can be received in this realm! We may be encouraged by the praise of others, but let us not settle for that as being “good enough”. May we not stop short to what GOD DESIRES TO GIVE. It is HIS GIFTS that are the truly “good” and “perfect” ones! (James 1:17) Praise God for His desire to bless us so abundantly and completely!

Have a great day SEEKING TO GAIN WHAT GOD DESIRES TO GRANT!
Carl

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Whose House?

Sometimes sports fans will support their team with the slogan, “Not In Our house!” They see their team as winning, not losing in “their house.” “Their house” is their territory and any team entering in is forewarned. However, who was it that built “the house”? Who owns the team? Who trains the team? Who makes the decisions for the team?

Being the “household” of God ought to greatly encourage us. To be “His House” is definitely a glorious thing. However, is our predominant focus on ourselves as that house or on Whose house it is? The answer to that question will determine the manner in which we conduct our life.

The Hebrew writer noted…
“(3) For Jesus has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses -- as much more glory as THE BUILDER OF A HOUSE HAS MORE HONOR THAN THE HOUSE ITSELF. (4) (For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.) (5) Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that were to be spoken later, (6) but Christ is faithful over God’s house as a son. And WE ARE HIS HOUSE IF INDEED WE HOLD FAST OUR CONFIDENCE AND OUR BOASTING IN OUR HOPE.” (Hebrews 3:3-6 ESV)

Houses don’t just happen; they are built by someone! Do we view our life in the same manner. Is God -- THE BUILDER of our life and connector of our life with others of His household -- receiving the honor He is due? Or is our focus more on “the house” itself? We ought to remember He is THE BUILDER Who did the planning. He is THE BUILDER Who has brought all the components of the house together and placed them as he desired. (note analogy of 1 Corinthians 12:18) He is THE BUILDER Who designed us for His purposes and use. Therefore, He -- as THE BUILDER OF THE HOUSE -- deserves much more honor than the house itself. Maintaining a view of being GOD’S HOUSE will not only impact the conduct of our own life, but also the kind of connection we have with one another. It will compel us toward more faithfulness to Him and His Will.

May we daily live with the rightful acknowledgment of being HIS HOUSE! Following His “game plan” and the purpose of His Will provides the assurance of being led to victory.

Have a great day WITH GREAT ADORATION FOR OUR LIFE’S ARCHITECT!
Carl

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Whose Pace?

Because of the amount of walking I do, I have to be really conscious of slowing my pace when walking with others. This is especially true when with my wife. Quite often -- as we are heading through a parking lot and into a store -- she will pull back on my arm a little to remind me my pace is picking up. This happens quite often when my mind is on other things. Sometimes she will even verbally remind me we don’t have to be in a hurry. There are also times when she will stop and wait for me to realize I am rushing on ahead without her. In order for us to REMAIN TOGETHER our pace needs to be the same. What does it say about my view of my wife if I start running on ahead without her? That would really not speak well of OUR RELATIONSHIP, would it? For me to rush on would be an indication my mind is only on what I am after rather than our shared purpose of GOING TOGETHER.

In John’s second short letter he exhorted the following:
“(8) Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward. (9) EVERYONE WHO GOES ON AHEAD AND DOES NOT ABIDE IN THE TEACHING OF CHRIST, DOES NOT HAVE GOD. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.” (2 John 8-9 ESV)

Who or what are we allowing to set the pace for our life? According to John, without a proper focus we can end up without God! Are we guilty of running on ahead or are we striving to remain in step with the teachings of Jesus? If we run on ahead at our own pace after our own pursuits, what does that say about OUR RELATIONSHIP with Him? Sometimes we may need to slow down and give more thought to the teaching of His Will. Perhaps there are other times we need to pick up our pace so as to not lag behind Him. Our goal should be that of REMAINING TOGETHER with Jesus as we move on through each day of our life. In order to do this our mind needs to be constantly on what He desires so that our step REMAINS TOGETHER with Him. With a desire to honor OUR RELATIONSHIP with Him, let us continually be mindful of allowing our Lord’s Will to set the pace for our life walk.

Have a great day KEEPING THE WALK IN STEP WITH CHRIST!
Carl

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"My Other House Is A ...!"

There are a lot of interesting bumper stickers people display on their vehicles these days. Some of them I can’t believe are allowed. Others are printed so small you have to drive dangerously close to read them. However, many are really cute, funny, or make a wonderful point. One of the popular ones is: “My Other Car Is A Porsche!” Some have substituted other vehicles which were apparently desired. I even saw one that stated “My Other Vehicle Is A Broom!”

You may often think of things you would love to have displayed on your car, but how about this one: “My Other House Is A Mansion!”

Jesus encouraged His disciples with these words:
“(1) ‘Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. (2) IN MY FATHER’S HOUSE ARE MANY ROOMS. If it were not so, would I have told you that I GO TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU? (3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, THAT WHERE I AM YOU MAY BE ALSO. (4) And you know the way to where I am going.’” (John 14:1-4 ESV)

Yes, that’s the bumper sticker I want. I’ll put up with my modest dwelling for now because I know I’ve got something marvelous waiting for me in eternal glory!

Have a great day KNOWING WHAT THE LORD HAS PREPARED FOR HIS OWN!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/08/1998 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Put On A Smile!

It has been said: “When dressing in the morning, don’t forget to put on a smile!”

What does a smile say about us? When people see us walking down the road grinning and smiling, what do they think? Some may wonder what we’ve been up to, but generally we will be viewed as just being happy, content, and out enjoying life.

Note a statement Solomon made in Ecclesiastes:
“Who is like the wise? And who knows the interpretation of a thing? A MAN’S WISDOM MAKES HIS FACE SHINE, and the hardness of his face is changed.” (Ecclesiastes 8:1 ESV)

What are things that harden the appearance of the face? Among the many things we might consider are: anger, anxiety, discouragement, sadness over losses, suspicion, etc.

What can bring the change to brighten the face? Among the things we might view here are: knowledge of what counts, trust in God’s promises, forgiveness, trusting relationships, etc. Why would these bring such a change? Because wisdom of what counts and a focus on God can bring CLARITY TO OUR PERSPECTIVE of things.

There is more than one way to say “the light comes on.” If the light goes on inside, why would we not expect a change on the outside? The expression may also be one of contentment and peace as we walk in faith with God. God’s wisdom removes that hard face. God touches the heart and that changes the outward countenance.

Rather than letting the circumstances around our life determine our expression, we need to let our heart, trusting in God, determine the look on our face. With our life in the hands of God, we have much about which to be JOYFUL. We also have much to provide a sense of peace. Let the world see OUR JOY. Let the world marvel at OUR JOY in spite of life’s challenges. This may cause the world to desire OUR JOY, providing the opportunity to introduce them to the eternal source of OUR JOY.

Have a great day KEEPING ON A HAPPY FACE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/07/1998 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Morning Vision!

How do you wake up in the morning? Does it take a while to get the “cobwebs” out of your eyes before you can get moving? Do you fall out of bed and stumble across your room? Do you push the snooze on your alarm to catch just a few more moments of shut-eye? Do you groan that the night is gone and a new day has begun? Do you dread throwing off the blankets and facing the day? What kind of morning vision do you have?

David wrote…
“O LORD, in the morning you hear my voice; IN THE MORNING I prepare a sacrifice for you and WATCH.” (Psalm 5:3 ESV)

The New Living Translation reads…
“Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD. Each morning I bring my requests to you AND WAIT EXPECTANTLY.” (NLT © 1997, Tyndale House)

It was with an EXPECTANT VISION David approached the day. He laid it out before the Lord, trusted in God’s help, and was ready to move out!

We too ought to begin each day with prayer. PRAYER IS AN ACT OF LOOKING UP. That is the way to begin the day -- LOOKING UP IN EXPECTATION of what God will provide and be willing to do through us this day. This will help us to move through the day with an onward motion rather than a backward view of drudgery (wishing we were back in bed). It will aid in moving out with an UPWARD GAZE with higher aims than those of the world. It will also help us resist the pessimism of the world as we move out knowing who our hope is dependent on.

Have a great day WITH AN UPWARD VISION!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/06/1998 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Greater Than Gibraltar!

“He’s my Rock of Gibraltar!” Such a statement refers to another as being their source of stability and strength. Not described as a sand pit in which one could sink or a reed that can be easily broken if used for propping up, but something solid; A ROCK! The Rock of Gibraltar overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar at the western entrance to the Mediterranean Sea is 1,398 feet high. It is a massive rock! Therefore we can understand the significance of the expression.

In the song Moses was to teach Israel prior to his death we read…
“THE ROCK, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he.” (Deuteronomy 32:4 ESV)

THE ROCK! Is that how we see our God? Massive and solid? Though Israel had so often “dealt corruptly with him” (Deuteronomy 32:5), God was to be seen as the stable and permanent One in Whom they could always depend regardless of the situation. Why? Because -- as God was characterized here -- PERFECTION marks His works and JUSTICE is the essence of all His ways. Also, since there is no iniquity or wrong with Him, His faithfulness, justness, and uprightness means He can be completely relied upon. This was in great contrast to any other who might be trusted.

Further on in this song we find this contrast where we read…
“(30) How could one have chased a thousand, and two have put ten thousand to flight, unless their ROCK had sold them, and the LORD had given them up? (31) For their rock is NOT AS OUR ROCK; our enemies are by themselves.” (Deuteronomy 32:31 ESV)

The nation of Israel -- as they entered the promised land -- was to remember the victories they had gained and would gain were because of THE ROCK Who was with them. These were not accomplishments of their own. (note also Deuteronomy 32:27) We also need to maintain the same perspective or we will likely forget about God and our need for His abiding presence.

David expressed his confidence in God when he stated…
“(5) For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. (6) HE ONLY IS MY ROCK and my salvation, my fortress; I SHALL NOT BE SHAKEN. (7) On God rests my salvation and my glory; MY MIGHTY ROCK, my refuge is God.” (Psalm 62:5-7 ESV)

God is the solid and stable ROCK on which we can build our life. As God has been true to His covenant of the past, He will be true still! May He remain “THE ROCK of our salvation” (Deuteronomy 32:15; Psalm 95:1) so that we can retain the stability of which our life is in constant need.

The Rock of Gibraltar! What a vantage point from which to see! What a foundation on which to build! However, like a mountain, it can give way. It is God who is the unshakeable foundation and refuge for life and Who also provides the vantage point from which we can even glimpse eternity! May He truly be THE ROCK of our life!

Have a great day RESTING LIFE UNSHAKEABLY ON THE ONLY MIGHTY ROCK!
Carl

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On Course!

Though I love technology -- especially when it works the way it is intended, otherwise it becomes a great source of frustration to me -- I’m not one to rush out and buy the latest gadgets. I like to wait until things catch on and the prices become more reasonable. This may leave me a step behind, but I’m still moving along with technological progress.

One of the gadgets growing in popularity is the GPS (global positioning system) unit that has become much easier to use than earlier models, as well as much cheaper to own. Being able to enter a specific address, have it lay out the route, and then provide prompting for every turn is marvelous. If a wrong turn is made and one gets off course the GPS advises the making of a “legal U-turn” whenever possible or if another route is taken the GPS will recalculate from there so the final destination can still be reached. My wife (who often refers to herself as getting lost simply going around the block) even used our GPS this past weekend to go visit her sister who had moved into a new place. She was delighted how it took her right to her sister’s door.

With our GPS, the thing that thrills me the most is the finals words it speaks. As a destination is being approached we hear, “Approaching destination on the right.” Then come the words that I love to hear: “YOU HAVE ARRIVED.” It tickles me every time I hear the GPS say that because those are words I’ve longed to hear! The truth is -- as far as my personal life goes -- I have not yet arrived!

“YOU HAVE ARRIVED.” There are some people in this life who may think they have. They have reached the level for which they had hoped. Perhaps these individuals believe they cannot become any more than they already have. Such sets one up for the development of complacency, stagnation, and ultimately digression.

“YOU HAVE ARRIVED.” Paul was an impressive servant of God. He was a man who knew God’s Word. He was a persistent preacher. He was a selfless servant. He was a faithful follower of the Will of God. However, he humbly acknowledged the journey was not complete.

In his letter to the church at Philippi, Paul stated…
“(12) NOT THAT I HAVE ALREADY OBTAINED THIS OR AM ALREADY PERFECT, but I PRESS ON to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. (13) Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and STRAINING FORWARD TO WHAT LIES AHEAD, (14) I PRESS ON TOWARD THE GOAL for the prize of THE UPWARD CALL of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:12-14 ESV)

Pressing on! Not yet arrived! A goal -- final destination -- still to be reached!

Our GPS unit has a feature where our home address is programmed in and so to get home all we have to do is touch the designated “home” icon and the GPS will plot the course from wherever we are. On life’s journey, let us keep the course marked for home. When our life gets off course we may need to make some U-turns. We may also need to have the route recalculated from where we are to get us back on course toward the Divine programmed destination. As we continue looking back to God’s Word, we can be redirected to the path He desires us to take that continues to move toward Him and the Heavenly destination He has in mind.

GPS units use something above us (satellites) to determine where we are and the direction we need to go. That is what we most need for life; direction from above! With the right tool (the Bible) and all the provision God has made through Christ, we can get to our Heavenly home. Keeping the course we can someday in reality be thrilled by the words, “YOU HAVE ARRIVED.” Truly it is the “destination on the right.”

Have a great day FOLLOWING THE FATHER’S PROMPTS TOWARD HOME!
Carl

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Used In Relationship! (part 2 of 2)

When we are used by God in relationships we should rejoice in those connections and the significant difference He can bring to the lives of others through our actions and words. Yesterday we considered God using us a comforters. Let us now consider a PAINFUL side of genuine relationships. In the second chapter of Paul’s second letter to the church at Corinth, he mentioned the PAIN.

We read…
“(1) For I made up my mind not to make another PAINFUL VISIT to you. (2) For if I cause you PAIN, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have PAINED? (3) And I wrote as I did, so that when I came I might not suffer PAIN from those who should have made me rejoice, for I felt sure of all of you, that my joy would be the joy of you all. (4) For I WROTE TO YOU OUT OF MUCH AFFLICTION AND ANGUISH OF HEART and with many tears, NOT TO CAUSE YOU PAIN BUT TO LET YOU KNOW THE ABUNDANT LOVE THAT I HAVE FOR YOU.” (2 Corinthians 2:1-4 ESV)

The PAIN of genuine relationships can arise from separation (for a particular length of time or by the death of a loved one) or be experienced because of a HEIGHTENED LEVEL OF CONCERN. This latter cause seems to have been what Paul was going through. Paul had a genuine concern for the spiritual health of the Christians at Corinth. He had written in his first letter of a situation with which they needed to deal. (1 Corinthians 5) In his second letter he seems to have addressed the result of this action and needed to encourage the church to know where to go from there. Paul wanted to maintain the relationship with the saints there, but He also wanted to make sure they retained a proper relationship with each other and with God.

Like Paul, do we feel the PAIN when our relationships are not right? Have we also experienced the “anguish of heart” when lives seem to be drawing away from rather than moving toward God and His Will? Praise God we can be so touched. If there is no attachment, the wrong others do may not bother us so much. When we feel the PAIN it is because the connection is a genuine one. Having such a heart, God draws us into a glorious role of using us to reach out, warn, and draw others back to Him. Is there any higher calling than that since the very soul of another may be at stake? May we retain such a heart that we can be used by God to draw others back toward Him and His Will. In so doing we will have opportunity to rejoice in going from the PAIN back to the comfort our blessed relationships in the Lord provides.

Have a great day DRAWN TO OTHERS TO DRAW TOWARD GOD!
Carl

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Used In Relationships! (part 1 of 2)

What is the relationship between COMFORT and pain? Perhaps one might say when in pain it is nice to have some COMFORT from another. Perhaps another COMFORT in the midst of pain would come from knowing when the pain will only be experienced for a while. However, another relationship between COMFORT and pain is just that -- relationships. Even relationships with those we love deeply can be the source of both COMFORT and pain. In fact, the pain is often due to the genuineness of that relationship. Today, let us consider the COMFORT side and (Lord Willing) we will consider the painful side tomorrow.

In Paul’s second letter to the church at Corinth he noted the COMFORT when he wrote…
“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, (4) who comforts us in all our affliction, SO THAT WE MAY BE ABLE TO COMFORT THOSE WHO ARE IN ANY AFFLICTION, WITH THE COMFORT WITH WHICH WE OURSELVES ARE COMFORTED BY GOD.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV)

Now, nobody likes to be in a relationship where they feel they are only being used? Healthy relationships are generally those that provide some mutual benefit. However, in our relationships there are things for which God wants to use us in helping to carry out His Will. Extending and being a COMFORT to others is one of those tasks. Having received COMFORT, and understanding what it is to be COMFORTED, we are to be mindful of being COMFORTERS ourselves. This godly use of our life can occur in a variety of ways and in a multitude of diverse situations. When it does, it reveals the kind of connection we have allowed our life to make with the lives of others. May the “God of all COMFORT” find us useful to His purposes in being His embrace for others in their time of need.

Have a great day BEING A SOOTHING SOUL TO SOMEONE IN NEED!
Carl

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Night Watch!

There was a soldier serving on guard duty late one night. Everything had been quiet and -- having nothing really to focus on -- he struggled against drowsiness. He finally decided to sit down at his post and just close his eyes for a moment. It did not take long, however, for him to doze off. He awoke a short while later to the feeling someone was there. With his head bowed and chin against his chest, he opened his eyes noticing a pair of GI boots directly in front of him. Thinking quickly, knowing it was his commander, he drawled out an “Aaaamen!” as he looked up and got to his feet.

Falling asleep while on guard duty is a serious thing. We might even say that one caught doing so would not have a prayer. The one on duty ALLOWS THE OTHERS TO SLEEP WELL since they know there is another on the look out.

The Psalmist wrote:
“(1) I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? (2) My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. (3) He will not let your foot be moved; HE WHO KEEPS YOU WILL NOT SLUMBER. (4) Behold, he who keeps Israel WILL NEITHER SLUMBER NOR SLEEP.” (Psalm 121:1-4 ESV)

There was a man who had many trials he was undergoing, yet was able to sleep very peacefully at night. When asked how he was able to sleep so well, his response was linked to the above passage. He remarked, “My God does not sleep through the watches of the night so there’s NO SENSE BOTH OF US STAYING AWAKE.”

There is the picture of one who has a calm peace in their relationship to God. That is the type of faith for which we need to strive. If we are having trouble sleeping at night, instead of counting sheep, let us talk to the Shepherd. May we then also acknowledge there is truly “NO SENSE BOTH OF US STAYING AWAKE” all night.

Have a great day WITH A CALMING FAITH IN THE ONE WHO KEEPS WATCH!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 10/26/1998 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Good For Nothing?

There was a group of young boys comparing their home situations and how much they were given each week. The son of a banker proudly declared, “My dad gives me ten dollars each week for being good.” The son of a lawyer stated he got five dollars. The son of a widow complained he only got fifty cents. Then the son of a preacher matter-of-factly declared, “My dad’s a minister, so I’m good for nothing.” [selected]

How much motivation do we need? As we look around us we may wonder whatever happened to just being good for goodness’ sake! What has happened to doing what is right simply because it is right? Do our actions merely reflect a concern for when other’s eyes are on us (note attitude of Colossians 3:22) or rather a sense of character that signifies to whom we belong?

John stated…
“(9) No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. (10) BY THIS IT IS EVIDENT WHO ARE THE CHILDREN OF GOD, and who are the children of the devil: WHOEVER DOES NOT PRACTICE RIGHTEOUSNESS IS NOT OF GOD, nor is the one who does not love his brother.” (1 John 3:9-10 ESV)

That’s not being good to be paid for it, but it is also not being good for nothing. It is being good FOR THE SAKE OF PLEASING GOD! Not only are right actions a sign of desiring to be RIGHT WITH GOD, the result is that GOD WILL BE GLORIFIED (Matthew 5:16) and we will ultimately REAP IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE GOOD we have sown (Galatians 6:9) because God is pleased to bless those who seek to please Him. (note Hebrews 11:6b)

The nation of Israel was told that in keeping the commands of God, the nations who observed them would see them as a “wise and understanding people.” (Deuteronomy 4:6) Are there any rules more righteous than His? (Deuteronomy 4:8) May we live to have that wisdom and understanding seen in our own life by being willing to do the things that are good and right simply because they are!

Have a great day BEING GOOD FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS’ SAKE!
Carl

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Religious And Zealous!

Being religious is a good thing. Having a zealousness about us is also good. However, we should bear in mind that being religious doesn’t necessarily mean we are right! And even zeal can be very much misdirected. It is possible for me to be very religious about eating cake every Friday. I could even have a great zealousness for chocolate cake. It is the OBJECT of our religion and the FOUNDATION of our zealousness that must be closely guarded.

Perhaps there is no greater example of one who was so misguided at one point in his life as we find in the story of Saul who became the Apostle Paul. Among his own references to his formerly misdirected life he stated…

“(6) as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.” (Philippians 3:6 ESV)

See where his own zeal had led him? Also note the righteousness he focused on in his own observance of the law. However, was he right? No! His zeal had led him to work against God. He also had to learn that he could not depend on a righteousness of his own, but that which came through his faith in and relationship with Christ. (Philippians 3:9)

In his letter to the church at Rome, as Paul referred to his Jewish brethren who had not yet acknowledged Christ, he noted…

“(1) Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. (2) For I bear them witness that THEY HAVE A ZEAL FOR GOD, BUT NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE. (3) For, being IGNORANT OF THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD, and SEEKING TO ESTABLISH THEIR OWN, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” (Romans 10:1-4 ESV)

Yes, Paul knew! He was well aware of the struggle they were having because he had been there himself. It is to God and His righteous standard and will and that we are to submit. And our religion and zeal are to be based on that KNOWLEDGE OF HIS WILL!

Jesus gave Himself for us, to redeem, purify, and make us His own as a people “zealous for good works.” (Titus 2:14) Later on in Paul’s letter to the church at Rome he urged his readers… “(11) DO NOT BE SLOTHFUL IN ZEAL, BE FERVENT IN SPIRIT, SERVE THE LORD.” (Romans 12:11 ESV)

May the Sovereignty of God and our Lord Jesus Christ remain the OBJECT of our religion and may our zealousness be based on a CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF HIS WORD AND WILL. It is not our own desires and ideas, but rather the Lord’s we are to be diligently serving!

Have a great day KEEPING FOCUS AND WORKS IN LINE WITH GOD’S WILL!
Carl

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Sidetracked By Blessing?

God made very clear the manner in which He desired to bless the nation of Israel in the land He was giving them. And what marvelous blessings they were! It is hard to imagine them doing anything to possibly lose the opportunity for such blessings.

We read…
“(12) And because you listen to these rules and keep and do them, the Lord your God will keep with you the covenant and the steadfast love that he swore to your fathers. (13) He will love you, BLESS YOU, and multiply you. He will also BLESS the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground, your grain and your wine and your oil, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock, in the land that he swore to your fathers to give you. (14) YOU SHALL BE BLESSED ABOVE ALL PEOPLES. There shall not be male or female barren among you or among your livestock. (15) And the LORD will take away from you all sickness, and none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which you knew, will he inflict on you, but he will lay them on all who hate you.” (Deuteronomy 7:12-15 ESV)

Wow! Blessings touching about every aspect of life. Even “all sickness” taken away. What a blessing that would be. I thank God I don’t get sick very often, and I can’t even remember the last time I had the flu, but this week it gripped my body and (sparing you the details) felt like a wasting disease. As I think about the nation of Israel, the thing that strikes me is that with such a clear promise why did the people struggle so much with a lack of faithfulness to God? We find this similar blessing pronounced again in Deuteronomy 28:1-14. However, it was made clear that the blessing was contingent on “if you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God, being careful to do all his commandments….” (Deuteronomy 28:1) The nation was warned amidst their blessings to NOT FORGET THE PROVIDER of them. (Deuteronomy 8:11-16) Even in verse twelve (of the chapter seven text quoted above) there was a link to listening and keeping the rules of God.

What could cause the forgetting? We read…
“(17) Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘MY POWER AND THE MIGHT OF MY HAND HAVE GOTTEN ME THIS WEALTH.’” (Deuteronomy 8:17 ESV)

God has not promised us complete freedom from sickness or specific blessings like those listed above in our land. However, the blessings we do receive from God are plenteous and should not be taken for granted. We should still find great comfort in His watchfulness over our lives. Nevertheless, just like Israel, we need to guard against the tendency of looking at our blessed circumstances with a view as if we had attained it all by ourselves. That is one of the downfalls of being so blessed; focusing on enjoying the blessings to the point we FORGET THE BLESSER. Let us never be guilty of FORGETTING THE SOURCE of our greatest blessings for life that are also linked to the Provider of the greatest ones for an eternity with Him. We should always be mindful of thanking Him for them. He is the Provider of “every good and perfect gift.” (James 1:17) LET US REMEMBER the best way to reveal our sincere appreciation for GOD’S BLESSINGS is to always seek to carry our His Will in our lives.

Have a great day ENJOYING THE BLESSINGS WHILE REMEMBERING THE BLESSER!
Carl

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Wise Building!

When it comes to building, there needs to be a plan. If there is no plan, how can we expect things to come together properly so as to provide the greatest benefit and functionality of what is being built? Good building does not just come by accident.

Solomon exhorted…
“(3) BY WISDOM a house is built, and BY UNDERSTANDING it is established; (4) BY KNOWLEDGE the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” (Proverbs 24:3-4 ESV)

Is this not also true with the building of a life? It takes WISDOM to properly build and UNDERSTANDING for it to be well grounded and established to remain upright amidst life’s storms. We also need to be mindful of that with which we are filling the rooms of our life. What are we taking in? What are we storing away? Are we filling our life with that which is truly precious that will not only intellectually, but SPIRITUALLY ENRICH our life?

Paul focused similarly in writing to Timothy where we read…
“(20) Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. (21) Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel FOR HONORABLE USE, SET APART AS HOLY, USEFUL TO THE MASTER of the house, READY FOR EVERY GOOD WORK.” (2 Tim. 2:20-21 ESV)

Think about your life and carefully consider what you are drawing in and storing up. Paul went on to urge Timothy…
“(22) So FLEE YOUTHFUL PASSIONS and PURSUE RIGHTEOUSNESS, FAITH, LOVE, and PEACE, along with those who call on the Lord from a PURE HEART.” (2 Timothy 2:22)

Does that mark our individual life pursuit? Is this what we are setting our eyes upon to bring into our life? Do these reflect the essence of what we truly desire to store and display in the rooms of our life? May our life building continue according to God’s design.

Have a great day DAILY CONSULTING GOD’S BLUEPRINT!
Carl

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Instant!

We may appreciate the modern day conveniences of instant cocoa, instant coffee, instant pudding, instant mashed potatoes, etc. These mixes provide what we want very quickly and that may be just the way we like it. However, there are other instant things associated with convenience that can provide something not so appreciated. As an example, the credit card may make it possible for instant gratification (being able to buy what one wants even though they do not presently have the money), but it also provides INSTANT DEBT! Sin also provides INSTANT DEBT; a debt we cannot pay. Sin -- like using credit cards for the goods we can’t presently afford -- can fall into the category of “play now, pay later.”

Paul pointed out that …
“(23) for ALL HAVE SINNED and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23 ESV)

That means we all have a debt. However, Paul went on to also state…
“(24) and are JUSTIFIED BY HIS GRACE as a gift, through the REDEMPTION THAT IS IN CHRIST JESUS,” (Romans 3:24 ESV)

It is only in Christ that we can have this DEBT RELIEF made possible. Jesus gave Himself once for all (Hebrews 7:27; 9:26; 10:10; 1 Peter 3:18), not having to pay again and again. With our life in Him the DEBT IS COVERED. However, that doesn’t mean we can just go on “spending” our life in sin. (note Romans 6:1-2) To do so would reveal a lack of appreciation for the DEBT RELIEF made possible. In order to continue to receive this adequate coverage we must continue to walk in the light and He is in the light. (1 John 1:7) May we live with a love for Him (read Luke 7:41-47) that reflects in our actions we acknowledge the great blessing He has made possible.

Have a great day KNOWING IN CHRIST WE’RE COVERED!
Carl

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ABC = A Basic Challenge!

“ABC’s”! That which is basic to our language. Sometimes the expression “the ABC’s” is used with reference to the basics of other things: “ABC’s” of plumbing, of cooking, of fishing, etc. The ABC’s relating to conflict in interpersonal relationships is “A Basic Challenge” in all levels of relationships. From the experience of some challenges in my own life and from time spent in counseling trying to help others, I have come to the conclusion that one of the predominating factors leading to conflict is when the focus is TOO MUCH ON SELF. Think about it honestly! In most of the conflicts that have been in your life, has it not been due to either a SELFISH focus on your part, the part of another, or perhaps at least some from both sides?

SELFISHNESS is often at the core of conflict whether that be in the work place, out in society, or even within our own homes. I wish I could say such a problem did not exist in the church, but unfortunately even there SELFISHNESS has raised its ugly head. SELF-CENTEREDNESS is something that worked against a sense of unity even for the church at Corinth during the first century. Other individuals in some cases and self at other times were esteemed a bit more than they should have been (i.e. 1 Corinthians 1:12; 3:5; 4:6; 10:24; 2 Cor. 10:12) and unity was disrupted.

Certainly self-examination is important as we strive to grow spiritually, but too often the focus remains on self-interest in a way that blinds from seeing the cares and needs of others. The basic key to correcting the problem is the “ABC’s” of “Attentiveness Beyond Concerns of self!”

Writing to the church at Rome Paul exhorted…
“(3) For BY THE GRACE GIVEN TO ME I say to everyone among you NOT TO THINK OF HIMSELF MORE HIGHLY THAN HE OUGHT TO THINK, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. (4) For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,(5) so we, though many, are ONE BODY IN CHRIST, and individually MEMBERS ONE OF ANOTHER.” (Romans 12:3-5 ESV)

It was by grace that Paul was what he was. (1 Corinthians 15:10) As a servant of God He had set self aside and focused on an attitude of servitude. [Note his expressions of this attitude in 1 Corinthians 9:19-22; 2 Corinthians 12:15; Philippians 2:17, Colossians 1:24; 1 Thessalonians 2:5-8; and 2 Timothy 2:10] Paul was effective in ministry because He continued to focus on keeping self out of the way while drawing attention to the Christ Who had graciously redeemed him and made his salvation -- and ours -- possible! The Divine purpose He kept in mind was “that by all means he might save some.” (1 Corinthians 9:22) May we keep self in check so as to enable us to maintain the ABC’s” of “Attentiveness Beyond Concerns of self” for the sake of the souls of others. Such should be basic to our walking in the likeness of Jesus Christ.

Have a great day maintaining Actions Based on Christ’s Divine Emphasis For Godly, Honorable, Influential, Just, and Kind Living!
Carl

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Preee-senting!

“Ta Ta Ta Daaa! Preee-senting, the one and only, the colossal, the unmatchable, the never before seen on the face of this earth! ..…” And the curtain is drawn as there it is presented with all the excitement the Master of Ceremonies can muster in introducing the WONDROUS SPECTACLE you are witnessing. But what is it? What am I placing on that stage? What is it I am hoping you will glimpse? It is you! It is you in all your glory! It is you as God has planned for you to be! It is you because you didn’t run off with one of the side-shows, but stayed with the Master of Ceremonies who planned the Big Event and wanted you to be a part of it.

The scene is as Jude wrote…
“(24) Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and TO PRESENT YOU BLAMELESS BEFORE THE PRESENCE OF HIS GLORY WITH GREAT JOY, (25) to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” (Jude 24-25 ESV)

When the curtain of death is pulled between this life and eternity, that is THE PRESENTATION all God’s works have been planned toward as we are brought into His glorious presence.

Have a great day PRAISING GOD FOR HIS WONDROUS PRODUCTIONS!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/01/1998 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Not Intimidated!

In Deuteronomy, before Moses presented a second giving of God’s Law, he summarized some of the challenges that had been faced in the journey from Egypt toward the promised land. In that summary, not only did he remind the people of the lack of faith in God that produced an unwillingness to enter the land (1:19- 2:15) and noted some of the victories God had brought (2:26- 3:22), Moses also addressed the burden of leadership that had been upon him. (1:9-12) He reminded of the appointment of others to help in judging cases between the people, including the exhortation he had given those involved in this discernment of what was right.

We read…
“(17) You shall not be partial in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. YOU SHALL NOT BE INTIMIDATED BY ANYONE, FOR THE JUDGMENT IS GOD’S. And the case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.’” (Deuteronomy 1:17 ESV)

These assisting Moses were not involved in making random decisions, but those judgments were to be based on the commands of God. Resting on the foundation of God’s consistent will and wisdom, they were TO STAND FIRM, not being “intimidated by anyone.”

Intimidation! Have we experienced it? Intimidation can cause one to be fearful, to question, be unsure, waver, and perhaps back down. However, when something is right and true the STANDING NEEDS TO BE FIRM.

Though we have not been called to serve in the same capacity as these who were over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens (Deuteronomy 1:15), we still have the truth of God in and on which we are TO FIRMLY STAND. In so doing we need to help others come to understand our standing is not based on our own preferences, but on what God has clearly revealed. Though some will try to get us to back down and even silence us, why should we be intimidated when we know what is right and true?

We are involved in a spiritual warfare. Truth is continually under attack. There are those who are out to suppress it. (Romans 1:18) They seek to intimidate us with the hope we will back down and be silent. Let us remember it is not our message, but God’s that we are to uphold.

In view of this battle, Paul exhorted those at Ephesus…
“(13) Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to STAND FIRM. (14) STAND therefore, HAVING FASTENED ON THE BELT OF TRUTH, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,” (Ephesians 6:13-14 ESV)

As a belt, it is the truth that holds everything up and in place. With the truth of God around us, we should be encouraged to STAND FIRM.

In Paul’s first letter to the church at Corinth, he urged…
“Therefore, my beloved brothers, BE STEADFAST, IMMOVABLE, always ABOUNDING IN THE WORK OF THE LORD, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV)

May we seek to do the same as we hold out the message of hope God has entrusted to us to share. We may at times be accused of judging, however, it is God who has already stated the judgment in His Word. That judgment needs to be acknowledged and appreciated before His judgment is ultimately faced. (Hebrews 9:27) Therefore, knowing that God is right, let us not be shaken.

Have a great day THANKFUL FOR SOLID TRUTH ON WHICH TO STAND!
Carl

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