Discernment In Giving!

In what Matthew records as Jesus’ “sermon on the mount”, our Lord attempted to elevate the focus beyond the standard of the “status quo” (the average expectation or standard among humanity) or “quid pro quo” (if you do it for me I will do it for you as well) living to a much higher standard for life conduct. (note the couplets of Matthew 5:21&22, 27&28, 31&32, 33&34, 38&39, 43&44) Life is to be lived with a consciousness of living in God’s presence while BEING ABOUT AND BEING WHAT HE HAS CALLED US. As Jesus directed the focus away from being critical of others (Matthew 7:1-2) and also toward considering self and what needs to be properly dealt with in our own life when attempting to help others with the “specks” or “splinters” that need attention (Matthew 7:3-5), He also stated the following:

“(6) DO NOT GIVE dogs WHAT IS HOLY, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” (Matthew 7:6 ESV)

Here is a discernment to be made. Perhaps, like me, you have limited the focus of this passage to discerning when others are no longer receptive to our offering of the “pearl of great value” [the precious things relating to God’s kingdom and the glorious truths of the Gospel (Matthew 13:45-46)] and when it may be time to move on to others. Though the hope should be that such individuals would eventually accept -- and we may remain mindful of trying to share with them again later -- why continue throwing the precious things of God’s kingdom and the glorious truths of the Gospel to those who persist in rejecting, trampling, and even attacking the messenger? This is a right focus from the text, however, there is another sense in which I was recently struck very powerfully as I reflected on this passage during some personal focus time while considering the message in light of WHAT I BE!

In the beginning, God’s design was for us to be created in His image. (Genesis 1:26-27) Though that image became marred by sin, through Christ and the power of His blood and the Holy Spirit, that image is being renewed. Therefore, in Christ, we have been called to BE HOLY IN ALL OUR CONDUCT just as God is holy. (1 Peter 1:14-16) Also, since our “body is a temple of the Holy Spirit”, we have been called to “glorify God in [our] body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

In light of these truths, consider the text again!
“(6) DO NOT GIVE dogs WHAT IS HOLY, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” (Matthew 7:6 ESV)

What is holy? What have we just been considering? What is it that is closest to home? Is it not OUR OWN LIFE? Since in Christ our LIFE IS HOLY, to what are we giving it? When I give myself to the world and cave in to its standards or use my life for the wrong things, then I have given that which is holy to the unholy. It is just as giving dogs holy things or throwing pearls to the pigs who have no appreciation for them. All pigs want is to satisfy their own appetite. When I, BEING HOLY, voluntarily join myself in the mud and mire (pig pen) of the world, I have taken that which God made holy and thrown it into the realm that has no appreciation for it. Therefore I must give serious consideration what it is to which I give my life.

As holy ones of God, may we continually give our life as a “living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.” (Romans 12:1) By doing so we will please God, serve His purposes, and have the most potential to impact those around us in godly ways.

Have a great day SERIOUSLY CONSIDERING WHAT WE GIVE SELF TO!
Carl

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Worthy Examples! (part 9 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 9 of 9)
Importance!

As Paul encouraged Timothy to be a WORTHY EXAMPLE, he pointed to the importance of such in these words:

“(15) PRACTICE THESE THINGS, IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THEM, so that all may see your progress. (16) Keep a close WATCH on YOURSELF and ON THE TEACHING. PERSIST in this, for by so doing you will SAVE BOTH YOURSELF AND YOUR HEARERS.” (1 Timothy 4:15-16 ESV)

Regardless of our age, we have been called by God to be EXAMPLES to each other and to the world in which we live. Being worthy examples is important. We must watch our lives very closely and this requires “practice” (“diligence”, NIV) on our part. It is important to “immerse” (“wholly” give, NIV) ourselves to this -- not just one aspect of our lives, but our whole selves. We need to “watch closely” our life and the teaching to make sure they compliment each other. In this we need to “persist”. Don’t quit!

Someone has said: “The only thing wrong with doing nothing is that you never know when you’re finished.” [calendar quote]

Let us continue to “progress” in these areas of being LIVING EXAMPLES! No standing still! No resting on our laurels! No complacency regarding spiritual stature! We must be diligent and give ourselves completely to these things. This is for our sake as well as the sake of others, bearing in mind Paul pointed out that if we do this we will save both ourselves and those who listen to the message we share. The consistency between our life and what we say will speak powerfully to others.

May we commit ourselves to following God’s Way so that we can say as Paul . . .
“BE IMITATORS OF ME, AS I AM OF CHRIST.” (I Corinthians 11:1 ESV)

Have a great day BEING AN EXAMPLE OF CHRIST!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/07/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 8 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 8 of 9)
In Using Our Gifts!

Paul encouraged Timothy:
“DO NOT NEGLECT THE GIFT YOU HAVE . . . .” (I Timothy 4:14 ESV)

From this passage and also Paul’s second letter to Timothy (2 Timothy 1:6-7) we note how he had been gifted in a miraculous way. Yet, even those gifts could come into disuse through either timidity or mere neglect. Timothy was encouraged to use the gifts he had been given.

We too need to use our gifts to the glory of God! They are not to be neglected!

Paul wrote . . .
“(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. (6) Having GIFTS THAT DIFFER according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; (7) if service, in our SERVING; the one who teaches, in his TEACHING; (8) the one who exhorts, in his EXHORTATION; the one who contributes, in GENEROSITY; the one who leads, with ZEAL; the one who does ACTS OF MERCY, with cheerfulness.” (Romans 12:4-8 ESV)

It is often said, “Use it or lose it!” May we thank God for the gifts He has given to us and look to Him for the courage and strength to use them to His glory.

Have a great day WILLINGLY USING GOD’S GIFTS IN GENEROUS WAYS!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/06/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 7 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 7 of 9)
In Devotion To The Word!

Paul encouraged Timothy
“Until I come, DEVOTE YOURSELF TO the public READING OF SCRIPTURE, to exhortation, to teaching.” (1 Timothy 4:13 ESV)

Do we take God’s Word seriously? Does it have a daily place in our lives? Throughout the Psalms, David’s devotion to God’s Word, commands, precepts, etc., is noted again and again.

Consider these words from the Psalmist:
“(127) Therefore I LOVE YOUR COMMANDMENTS above gold, ABOVE FINE GOLD. (128) Therefore I CONSIDER ALL YOUR PRECEPTS TO BE RIGHT; I hate every false way.” (Psalm 119:127-128 ESV)

How great is our love for God’s Word? How strong is our devotion to His Way? Do we view the Scriptures of inestimable value? Are we committed to God’s Will to the point we are ready to reject every other path? We need a daily devotion to the Word to enable us to continually distinguish between the right path and the wrong.

The Hebrew writer noted . . .
“(13) for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. (14) But SOLID FOOD is for the mature, for those who have their POWERS OF DISCERNMENT TRAINED BY CONSTANT PRACTICE TO DISTINGUISH GOOD FROM EVIL.” (Hebrews 5:13-14 ESV)

We need to devote ourselves to the ONE THING we know we can count on in the midst of many voices. God’s Word needs to have a daily place in our lives. By being an example of devotion to the Word we will be empowered by it to be an example in all other areas of our life.

Have a great day MODELING DEVOTION TO THE RIGHT WORD!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/05/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 6 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 6 of 9)
In Purity!

Paul encouraged Timothy:
“. . . BUT SET THE BELIEVERS AN EXAMPLE . . . in PURITY, . . . ” (1 Timothy 4:12 ESV)

“Oh a little bit doesn’t hurt!” Have you ever said or thought those words as you tried to rationalize doing something you deep down really knew was not right? Consider this: How much manure will you accept in your drinking water? I would guess, like me, you prefer your drinking water pure! We enjoy drinking water that is cold and fresh, not that which contains impurities. Should we not also have the same aim regarding what we drink into our life?

James exhorted:
“(26) If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. (27) Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to KEEP ONESELF UNSTAINED FROM THE WORLD.” (James 1:26-27 ESV)

The New International Version brings out the idea of being unpolluted. That’s the way I want my drinking water and that’s what God desires for our lives. Are we aiming to live holy lives, unpolluted by the things of the world? Inconsistency in this area does not provide a worthy example, nor does it reveal we are taking our religion seriously. In a world where “anything goes” there is the great need for more and more examples of purity.

Have a great day PURELY EXEMPLIFYING GODLINESS!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/04/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 5 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 5 of 9)
In Faith!

Paul encouraged Timothy:
“. . . BUT SET THE BELIEVERS AN EXAMPLE . . . in FAITH, . . . ” (1 Timothy 4:12 ESV)
What marks our faith? Does our trust in God show? Do others see we really believe what God says and we trust in His promises? Do we have a surprising peace about us because we trust God? Do we have a faith accompanied by works? That is a worthy faith. That is a valid faith.
The Hebrew writer gave a long list of men and women who were to be viewed as heroes of faith (Hebrews 11). These were listed to encourage Christians going through very trying times. These models of faith were (and are) worthy of being imitated. Therefore, throughout the Hebrew letter the encouragement toward steadfast faith was done through statements such as . . .
“(11) And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, (12) so that you may not be sluggish, but IMITATORS OF THOSE WHO THROUGH FAITH AND PATIENCE INHERIT THE PROMISES.” (Hebrews 6:11-12 ESV)
-- and --
“(7) Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and IMITATE THEIR FAITH. (8) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:7-8 ESV)
We need faith. But notice that patience goes with that faith as well. A faith that enables us to persevere. A faith that trusts enough in God to give us the courage to hang in there through the varying circumstances of life. A faith that is steadfast, remembering Christ is the same now as He was and will be and therefore the promises based on Him are a sure thing! Let us develop the type of faith that others may consider the outcome of our life and also see that it is a faith worthy of being imitated.
Have a great day FAITHFULLY MODELING A STEADFAST FAITH!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/03/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 4 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 4 of 9)
In Love!

Paul encouraged Timothy:
“. . . BUT SET THE BELIEVERS AN EXAMPLE . . . IN LOVE . . . .” (I Timothy 4:12 ESV)

What do we love? How do we love? Is our love for God and His will evident? Is our love for each other seen? Is our love for others sensed?

To Jesus’ disciples, He said . . .
“(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. (35) By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.’” (John 13:34-35 ESV)

What a great example of LOVE Jesus became. God wanted us to understand what true LOVE is really all about. That is the “self-less” LOVE (AGAPE) we are to be modeling as well. Our loving one another is a sign of our devotion to our Lord. The way we are toward each other is a mark of our discipleship to Jesus.

May it be said of us as it was with the early church -- “Oh, how they love each other.”

In a very self-centered culture in which we seem to be living, let us understand how important it is to be examples of the LOVE God intends all to come to understand and experience. Jesus is the ultimate role model. Through Him, God has given us the pattern to follow. As His LOVE has impacted us, may it in turn impact others as we live that LOVE.

Have a great day EXEMPLIFYING THE LOVE OF CHRIST!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/02/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 3 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 3 of 9)
In Life!

Paul encouraged Timothy:
“. . . BUT SET THE BELIEVERS AN EXAMPLE . . . IN CONDUCT . . . .” (I Timothy 4:12 ESV)

What does our general behavior say about our faith? How does our day to day living impact others? Do others see us taking our religion seriously or are we guilty of doing the “church thing” and then going out and doing the “world thing”? Do we leave God in the building where we assemble to worship? Are we guilty of leaving God in our room where we pray in secret? Or is God alive within us to direct, guide, and empower toward godly living wherever we are? If we are inconsistent between what we say we believe and how we CONDUCT our lives, that will sooner or later become evident to others.

Paul exhorted . . .
“(15) LOOK CAREFULLY THEN HOW YOU WALK, not as unwise but AS WISE, (16) making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. (17) Therefore do not be foolish, but UNDERSTAND WHAT THE WILL OF THE LORD IS.” (Ephesians 5:15-17 ESV)

To be LIVING the Lord’s Will reveals we truly have an understanding of that Will. We then become the examples others would be wise to take note of and follow. Our knowledge must be translated into action. Jesus came as the living Word (John 1:14) and in the flesh He gave us an example of the godliness we are to model. May we truly live the message of truth on a daily basis.

Have a great day BEING A LIVING EXAMPLE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/01/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 2 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 2 of 9)
In Speech!

Paul encouraged Timothy:
“. . . BUT SET THE BELIEVERS AN EXAMPLE in SPEECH, . . . ” (1 Timothy 4:12 ESV)

What does our speech say about our faith? What does it portray linked to godliness? What does it convey regarding our character?

Our speech is a great revealer of the heart. Jesus noted this when He stated . . .
“The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for OUT OF THE ABUNDANCE OF THE HEART HIS MOUTH SPEAKS.” (Luke 6:45 ESV)

James pointed to the inconsistency of praise and cursing coming from the same mouth with an illustration from nature. He used the fact we do not get salt water and fresh from the same spring nor do we get olives from a fig tree or figs from a grapevine to convey how unreasonable it is for the great inconsistency in mankind’s words. (James 3:9-12) So logically verse 10 states regarding the mouth . . .

“From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, THESE THINGS OUGHT NOT TO BE SO.” (James 3:10 ESV)

Perhaps the most concise guide to our speech is found in Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus.
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but ONLY SUCH AS IS GOOD FOR BUILDING UP, as FIT’S THE OCCASION, that it may GIVE GRACE TO THOSE WHO HEAR.” (Ephesians 4:29 ESV)

There is great POWER IN WORDS. Our words can either build up or destroy. Let us focus on SPEECH that will both benefit others and glorify God!

Have a great day using EXEMPLARY SPEECH!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 10/31/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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Worthy Examples! (part 1 of 9)

WORTHY EXAMPLES! (part 1 of 9)
Up Or Down?

Paul encouraged the young evangelist, Timothy, with these words:
“(12) LET NO ONE DESPISE YOU FOR YOUR YOUTH, BUT SET THE BELIEVERS AN EXAMPLE in SPEECH, in CONDUCT, in LOVE, in FAITH, in PURITY. (13) Until I come, DEVOTE YOURSELF TO the public READING OF SCRIPTURE, to exhortation, to teaching. (14) DO NOT NEGLECT THE GIFT YOU HAVE, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. (15) PRACTICE THESE THINGS, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. (16) Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” (1 Timothy 4:12-16 ESV)

To be despised might be to be looked down upon or thought less of. Paul urged Timothy to live a life that though he was young, would not be looked down upon. To be a bad example we can be looked down upon regardless of whether we are young or old. However, in the same way, being a GOOD EXAMPLE one can be looked up to even if they are young. We must each realize that our lives are examples of something. WE ARE BEING LOOKED TO! The question is: “Is it up?”

Some claim they do not want to be a role model and it is true there are many who should not be looked toward as such. Still, the fact remains there will be those who will follow them anyway. Thus we must understand the importance of being good role models. God has given us guidelines to enable us to be a PATTERN others can follow. If we claim to love God, then our lives say something about Him! If we profess to believe His Word, then our actions say something about it! If we wear the name of Christ as Christians, then we are modeling to others what His disciples are like.

Meditate on the above passage of Scripture and, Lord willing, over the next several days we will consider seven areas of life where we ought to strive toward being GOOD EXAMPLES. Then we will conclude with the importance of why we need to be EXAMPLES in these areas.

Have a great day MEDITATING ON GOD’S PATTERN for living!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 10/30/1999 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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What Percentage? (part 2 of 2)

Consider with me again the passage we noted yesterday, but this time in what appears to be its primary context as we note its connection with the previous verse. While Job was responding to statements made by his friend Bildad, we read. . .

“(1) Then Job answered and said: (2) ‘Truly I know that it is so: But HOW CAN A MAN BE IN THE RIGHT BEFORE GOD? (3) If one wished to contend with him, one could not answer him once in a thousand times.’” (Job 9:1-3 ESV)

The context of this passage in Job may actually be more reflective of our not being able to JUSTIFY ourselves before God. As our life stands before the righteousness of God, we fall far short of the image He created us to possess. Not even one in a thousand times could we respond with enough merit to JUSTIFY ourselves because -- as the prophet Isaiah acknowledged in the presence of God -- “all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.” (Isaiah 64:6 ESV) [or “filthy rags” (KJV and NKJV)]

Later, after God had asked Job many questions and would even do so further, Job responded. . .
“(4) Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I LAY MY HAND ON MY MOUTH. (5) I have spoken once, and I WILL NOT ANSWER; twice, but I WILL PROCEED NO FURTHER.” (Job 40:4-5 ESV)

What response could Job give? Is there any defense we could open our mouth to offer on our own behalf? In light of the reality of needing a remedy beyond ourselves for our short comings, let us praise God for the JUSTIFICATION we can receive IN CHRIST (1 Corinthians 6:11) even after we have fallen far short of where He wants us. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10) May we be careful we don’t begin to think we can balance it all out ourselves. We are in need of the righteousness that comes from God (Philippians 3:9) and can become ours because of Christ (1 Corinthians 1:30) as He speaks to the Father on our behalf. (1 John 2:1) May our life reflect a sincere appreciation for the answer Jesus is to providing our JUSTIFICATION before the Father.

Have a great day KNOWING ANOTHER ANSWERS FOR US!
Carl

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What Percentage? (part 1 of 2)

Many of you students have either completed final exams for the end of this school year or will be shortly. Such exams bring students face to face with questions that help to gauge how much was learned through the year. Perhaps there is no confidence in having gotten one hundred percent of THE ANSWERS correct, but getting ninety-nine or ninety-eight or maybe even down to eighty out of a hundred right, might not make one feel too bad. Those going on to college may view such scores in light of their percentile rating with other students, knowing that is considered with regard to admittance and scholarship possibilities.
Reading through Job, I was struck by a statement he made that could be looked at from the standpoint of reflecting a percentage of understanding in a manner clearly marking a vast contrast between God and mankind. Though the actual context seems to imply another focus (which we will consider Lord Willing tomorrow) consider Job’s statement in the context of knowledge.

Referring to God, Job stated. . .
“If one wished to contend with him, ONE COULD NOT ANSWER HIM ONCE IN A THOUSAND TIMES.” (Job 9:3 ESV)

For us that is a pretty low score. This is why we need to keep looking to God for guidance. We don’t have all THE ANSWERS, let alone the ability to even sometimes ask the right questions. The reality of this contrast is also noted by Paul when he referred to the foolishness of God being wiser than man’s wisdom. (1 Corinthians 1:25) When people begin to rely on their own perceived lofty mindedness, they should remember what God revealed through the prophet Isaiah where we read. . .

“For as the HEAVENS ARE HIGHER THAN THE EARTH, SO ARE my ways higher than your ways and MY THOUGHTS THAN YOUR THOUGHTS.”(Isaiah 55:9)

Recognizing how God is at the head of the class (outclassing humanity in every respect) and at the top of the curve when it comes to knowing THE ANSWERS, let us continually look to HIS ANSWERS to get us through life! It is only with Him that we will be able to score high!

Have a great day ACCEPTING GOD’S HELP TO SPIRITUALLY MAKE THE GRADE!
Carl

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Bearing The Marks!

Things happen in life that mark people in different ways: emotionally, physically, psychologically, socially, spiritually, etc. Some of these marks are more deeply impacting than others with some serving as a reminder to the bearer or becoming an indicator to others of a particular life experience. It has been told that when the knights of King Arthur’s court returned from the battlefield, if they did not bear on their body some scar from the battle, they were driven back out by the king with the command, “Go, get your scar!”

In Paul’s letter to the church at Galatia, because of false teachers who were trying to bind Jewish circumcision on Christians, Paul attempted to redirect the focus toward Christ. Neither being circumcised nor uncircumcised meant anything since the focus was to be on being a “new creation” in Christ. (Galatians 6:15) In an attempt to keep from being “persecuted for the cross of Christ”, these false teachers were trying to make a good showing in the flesh. (Galatians 6:12) However, that particular mark of the flesh had nothing to do with being a Christian regardless of what one’s background might have been.

Referring to himself, Paul stated. . .
“From now on let no one cause me trouble, FOR I BEAR ON MY BODY THE MARKS OF JESUS.” (Galatians 6:17 ESV)

Though Paul would have been circumcised as a Jew, his focus was no longer on that mark of the flesh. Instead, Paul’s focus remained on Christ and the power of the cross to redeem him. However, because of his relationship to Christ, his body had indeed become marked! It may have been the marks of having received the forty lashes minus one on five occasions (2 Corinthians 11:24) to which Paul referred. Or perhaps it was the marks from having been beaten three times with rods. (2 Corinthians 11:25) Or maybe the wounds received from having been stoned. (2 Corinthians 11:25) Or possibly the physical signs of having weathered the elements on a number of occasions in his travels. (2 Corinthians 11:25-27) It may have been something else. Each of these I have suggested were in some way associated with Paul’s steadfast relationship to Christ. They did not happen while he persecuted the church when he was known as Saul, but were his experiences after Jesus became his Lord. To look at the life of Paul left no question as to the genuineness of that relationship!

How about us? Though we may never experience some of the mistreatment Paul endured for Christ -- at least not to the degree he did, though it could happen -- is there something relating to our life that reveals we are marked for Jesus? Are we different enough from the world that our being a “new creation” in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) is clearly evident? May our life be so intertwined with the life of Jesus our Lord that HIS IMPRINT will be seen as we go about our daily activities. Any mark borne for the sake of Jesus should be viewed as a BADGE OF HONOR under his glorious Lordship!

Have a great day CLEARLY IDENTIFIED WITH CHRIST!
Carl

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In The Driver's Seat!

Driving a vehicle is an awesome responsibility because it is like driving a missile down the road. The lives of those in the vehicle are literally at the mercy of the one doing the driving. Therefore, without due care, lives could be at stake. Through the years I have noticed a number of campaigns with the goal of bringing about a mindfulness among drivers that would potentially make our highways safer. I remember the “Drive Legally!” signs. However, isn’t it possible to “drive legally” without exercising caution? This campaign was followed by one urging to “Drive Defensively!”, behind which was the focus BEYOND SELF to a watchfulness of what other drivers were doing and the potential hazards that could arise. Then there was the encouragement to “Drive Carefully” which might take into consideration the observance of the law and what others might be doing. Though it has been promoted for a few years now, the most recent re-emphasis has been to “Drive Friendly!” The focus through this campaign has been toward eliminating incidents of the “road rage” that has become far to common on congested roadways.

Just like on the streets and highways where we live the focus must be BEYOND SELF to others who are sharing the space, so must we be mindful of this with regard to life in general, including within the church. However, as we do so, just as one could drive legally without necessarily driving cautiously, the same could happen as our life intersects with the lives of others.

In his first letter to the church at Corinth Paul stated. . .
“(23) ‘All things are lawful,’ but NOT ALL THINGS ARE HELPFUL. ‘All things are lawful,’ but NOT ALL THINGS BUILD UP. (24) Let no one SEEK his own good, but THE GOOD OF HIS NEIGHBOR.” (1 Corinthians 10:23-24 ESV)

The specific context of which Paul was dealing related to the eating of meat sacrificed to idols and a difference of where people were in their knowledge. With regard to this issue it was possible for someone to do what was right, but be wrong in the doing if they had not given consideration to another. (1 Corinthians 10:25-30) There are other situations we may find ourselves in where this principle of taking a look BEYOND OURSELVES will also serve to make our actions HELPFUL FOR BUILDING UP rather than creating an offense. This may require us to do the loving thing of forgoing something that may be just fine in order to build a bridge rather than a wall between us and another. In our interaction with others we need to recognize when we are the one in the “driver’s seat” to steer things in a direction that brings the greatest God glorifying (i.e. 1 Corinthians 10:31) benefit.

Down a few verses Paul drew attention to the example of his own life.
“(33) just AS I TRY TO PLEASE EVERYONE in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, THAT THEY MAY BE SAVED.” (1 Corinthians 10:33 ESV)

There were rights Paul could have exercised which he was willing to set aside if he saw they might distract from reaching out to others. It was not that he set the truth aside -- his letters make it clear he would not sway from the truth -- but that he set aside personal advantages and rights for the sake of bringing the hope of salvation to others. That was much more important to Paul than any personal right he may have possessed. May we also share that focus by recognizing in our own interaction with others what is of the utmost importance in contributing to creating bridges that will either draw toward or strengthen relationships to Christ for the sake of the soul of others.

Have a great day WITH LOVING CARE STEERING OTHERS TOWARD JESUS!
Carl

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Frankly Speaking!

The story has been told of one of composer Rossini’s students who composed a funeral march in commemoration of the death of Ludwig von Beethoven. This student took the piece to his master who listened attentively to the uninspired work played falteringly by the amateur. The very frank remark of Rossini to his student was, “The circumstances would have been more favorable if YOU had died, and Beethoven had composed the march.” [selected]

The lesson we need to learn is that our life composition will be better written if done by another. Perhaps our faltering in life is due to trying to do the composing ourselves when it would be best for the Master Who died for us to do the writing. Frankly speaking, there is a death that we need to die in order for the right melody to be brought to life.

Paul exhorted those at Rome . . .
“(10) For the death he [Jesus] died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. (11) So you also must CONSIDER YOURSELVES DEAD TO SIN AND ALIVE TO GOD IN CHRIST JESUS.” (Romans 6:10-11 ESV)

Prior to this statement Paul had reminded the Romans of how their baptism into Christ was into His death so that just as Christ had been raised from the dead, they also were raised to “walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:3-4) Like the Christians at Rome, our life situation becomes more favorable by having died to self and to sin so that our life can be marked by a newness of being alive to God in Christ and to also “live to [or for] righteousness.” (1 Peter 2:24) It is in this way that our life can best commemorate and honor the Lord Jesus Christ. May the melody of our life be His!

Have a great day LIVING THE MASTER’S MELODY!
Carl

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Child's Expectations!

Though unfortunately today some homes and the relationships within them are not as they ought to be, generally speaking, children anticipate good things from their parents. Knowing a father’s love and interest in their life, a child will not hesitate to bring up the things they desire to receive. A loving father will then grant those requests with the exercise of a bit of discretion.

With regard to our HEAVENLY FATHER, Jesus declared. . .
“(7) ASK, and it will be given to you; SEEK, and you will find; KNOCK, and it will be opened to you. (8) For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. (9) Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? (10) Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? (11) If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, HOW MUCH MORE WILL YOUR FATHER WHO IS IN HEAVEN GIVE GOOD THINGS TO THOSE WHO ASK HIM!” (Matthew 7:7-11 ESV)

As children of God, do we recognize His eagerness to bless us? With a good expectation in view of our earthly fathers, “HOW MUCH MORE” should our expectation be toward God! Are we content living in His love and receiving what He sees as best? Though once a year is marked on our calendar as a day to celebrate fathers -- and we should let them know we do appreciate them more than just one day a year -- let us also recognized “HOW MUCH MORE” every day is a day to thank and honor our HEAVENLY FATHER for His gracious generosity for both our physical and spiritual wellbeing.

Have a great day DEEPLY APPRECIATING THE LOVING INTEREST OF OUR GOD!
Carl

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His Existence And Ours!

When Paul was in Athens he found “that the city was full of idols.” (Acts 17:16) With a multiplicity of gods, how would one know how to live? Would pleasing one displease another? Among these objects of their worship, Paul also noticed an altar with the inscription, “To the unknown god.” (Acts 17:23) How could one determine the appropriate manner in which to worship that which was unknown? From this focus on the “unknown” Paul moved on in an attempt to “make known” the true God who was the Creator of the world and everything in it and was Sovereign over all. (Acts 17:23-31) It was from Athens that Paul then went west to Corinth (Acts 18:1), another city associated with this Greek civilization. These Christians were also familiar with a multiplicity of gods and meat sacrificed to them. Being accustomed to this former manner of belief, there was a conflict as to whether or not such meat should be eaten due to its association with idols -- even though those idols were actually nothing. (1 Corinthians 8:4) Reading through this eighth chapter we can see how Paul tried to bring into focus a loving approach to this matter.

In the midst of this discussion Paul stated. . .
“(5) For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth -- as indeed there are many ‘gods’ and many ‘lords’ -- (6) yet FOR US there is ONE GOD, the Father, from whom are all things and FOR WHOM WE EXIST, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” (1 Corinthians 8:5-6 ESV)

As Christians, we are among the better informed. We know there is but “one God.” We know we don’t have to compartmentalize the various aspects of our life in association with many different deities. What a relief to know a choice does not have to be made from one moment to the next which one among many we need to please, being left to hope we got it right!

Since there is only One in whom we believe, that should greatly simplify the focus of our life. However, the challenge remains for us to live in a manner clearly declaring that is our belief. The God who truly exists is the Creator and Sustainer of all life. And when we wonder about the purpose of our existence, at some point we need to come to acknowledge that our existence is not simply for ourselves, but FOR HIM! Understanding that purpose in association with our existence will have a dynamic impact on how we relate to others and the kind of activities with which we become involved. To exist FOR HIM is to glorify Him and seek to please Him in all we do and say. As we sincerely consider our existence in association with God’s existence may it be His purposes that truly exist in our life.

Have a great day THANKFUL TO KNOW THE ONE LIFE IS TO BE LIVED FOR!
Carl

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Another Day!

Today happens to be “Friday the 13th”. Did you fret this day? Did your day start any different than the earlier days this week? As far as Fridays go, how is this day going?

The number 13 holds no fear for me. My wife and I found early in our relationship that we both shared the number 13 as our lucky number. I guess I had chosen it because I was born on a 13 (though it was a Sunday).

Some buildings with more than 13 floors have not had that floor numbered or have used that floor only for other things such as air-conditioning equipment. Some people would avoid buying a lottery ticket on a 13. Are you superstitious in any way? Whether it be regarding good luck or bad luck, are you controlled by some fears?

I came across some interesting information regarding superstitions today. Below I have listed some of it for your consideration.

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The 13th of the month falls on Friday more frequently than on any other day of the week. In 440 years (a basic and recurring calendar unit) there will be 688 Friday the 13ths. This is in comparison to 687 Sundays or Wednesdays, which are the next highest number.

In this age of science and sophisticated technology, it is estimated that 20 million Americans carry a rabbit’s foot or some other good-luck charm.

Among signs of good luck are: horseshoes, toadstools, piglets, four-leafed clovers, lady-bugs, forget-me-nots, mistletoe at Christmas, a cobweb in the room, yew trees, a sprig of heather, two shooting stars in one night, etc. We also have the proverbs: “See a pin and pick it up, all the day you will have good luck” and “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” (to bring the bride luck).

Among signs of bad luck are: a hunchback or an old woman crossing one’s path in the early morning, crossing arms when shaking hands, burning green twigs in the garden, losing one’s wedding ring, two spoons in a saucer, rocking an empty cradle, seeing a magpie, spilling salt, crossing one’s knife and fork, the ace of spades and the four of clubs, etc. It is considered unlucky by some to meet a funeral procession on one’s wedding day, walk under a ladder, open an umbrella in the house, or to break a mirror. It was also once considered unlucky to let one’s washing boil over, to give away something pointed, or to have a parson on board ship.

Have you ever heard of someone getting up on the “wrong side of the bed”? At one time most beds in hotels were placed with the left side against the wall. This was due to an ancient superstition to keep people from getting up on the wrong side of the bed. It was believed by ancient people that the gods and forces of good lived within the right side of the body, while the devil and all the forces of evil dwelt within the left side of the body. With this belief, according to the “Journal of the American Medical Association”, if a person got out of bed on the left side, he would be giving the advantage to the forces of evil for that day, and could expect misfortune and bad luck!
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I have walked under plenty of ladders. I have opened an umbrella indoors on a number of occasions. (You get wet if you wait until you are completely outside to open it.) I have also broken enough mirrors to never be free from that curse if it were so.

Paul admonished. . .
“(7) HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IRREVERENT, SILLY MYTHS. Rather TRAIN YOURSELF FOR GODLINESS; (8) for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as IT HOLDS PROMISE FOR THE PRESENT LIFE AND ALSO FOR THE LIFE TO COME.” (1 Timothy 4:7-8 ESV)

I have had bad things happen on a Friday thirteen, but I have had bad things happen on other days as well. I have also had good things happen on a Friday thirteen. It is often simply a matter of on what we choose to center our focus. Therefore today is another Friday for which I have thanked God. It is another Friday on which He is bringing the focuses of the week together that I will be sharing on Sunday. It is a day with some time again spent in prayer with some of the men of our congregation.

The Psalmist stated. . .
“THIS IS THE DAY THAT THE LORD HAS MADE; LET US REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT.” (Psalm 118:24 ESV)

The context of this statement specifically related to the coming Messiah. (Psalm 118:21-23) However, every day is a day the Lord has made and living in Christ we should especially be able to REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT! That is what I shall do! Won’t you join me?

Have a great day BECAUSE THE LORD GAVE IT!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 07/13/2001 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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The True Value! (part 2 of 2)

As we noted yesterday that talk can be cheap, actions can also be cheap or of a lesser value than what we may realize. What can cheapen our works? Suppose my father had asked me to clean the garage -- sweeping it out and making sure everything was in its place -- what would have been his expectation? What if because it was a beautiful day I decided rather than having to work inside, I would instead go out and mow the lawn and weed the gardens? Knowing I would do a good job at that, surely my father would be pleased with all the work I had done, right? Would my expectation of him being pleased with my wonderful work have matched my father’s expectation when he returned home? Even though the weeding and mowing might have been good works, they were what I CHOSE to do over what I had been asked to do. My action would have reflected what I WILLED rather than what MY FATHER WILLED and in spite of how immaculate the condition of the lawn and gardens might have become, my father would not have been pleased.

Perhaps it is easy for us to see why failing to follow such directions is not a good thing. In fact, though some good was done, obedience had not taken place. Should that not also be even more so the consideration with regard to our Heavenly Father?

Beginning with the verse we noted yesterday, Jesus emphatically declared. . .

“(21) Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but THE ONE WHO DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER who is in heaven. (21) On that day many will say to me, ‘LORD, LORD, DID WE NOT prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and DO MANY MIGHTY WORKS IN YOUR NAME?’ (23) And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, YOU WORKERS OF LAWLESSNESS.’” (Matthew 7:21-23 ESV)

Jesus clearly indicated it is possible to do “might works” -- even in His Name -- and still be considered “workers of lawlessness.” They worked lawlessness because they did not obey the rule or command of the Lord. These individuals were not necessarily guilty of doing bad things, but sinned in choosing to do their own will rather than the FATHER’S WILL.

Going back to my earlier illustration, perhaps the mowing and weeding could have taken longer than the cleaning of the garage would have required. Would such provide extra points for having “sacrificed” more personal time even though the works were different than what had been requested? Perhaps the yard and gardens were going to be done by my father or someone else. The problem remains that the thing he willed to be done was left undone and he would therefore have every right to be displeased. In such a scenario I would have most likely found myself being faced with the expenditure of more time to go and do what I had first been told. The expectation was to be mindful of what I had been given to be done.

Remember God’s message to Saul when he did not fully comply with what God had commanded. We read. . .

“(22) And Samuel said, ‘Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, TO OBEY IS BETTER THAN SACRIFICE, and TO LISTEN THAN THE FAT OF RAMS. (23) For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and PRESUMPTION IS AS INIQUITY AND IDOLATRY. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king.’” (1 Samuel 15:22-23 ESV)

It is not our own will, but GOD’S WILL that is to be searched out and done! It is not good enough for us to simply do good works and then assume God will place His stamp of approval on them. If we have not done what He has asked us to do, then what we have done is going to be of a lesser value to Him. This does not mean we earn our salvation, but such obedience does keep us in a proper relationship with God and the realm of His glorious blessings. It also reveals the sincerity of our appreciation and love for Him. May HIS WILL be highly valued so that the works of our life may glorify and honor Him. That is the highest purpose for the works we perform. (i.e. Matthew 5:16)

Have a great day KEEPING LIFE ABOUT THE FATHER’S BUSINESS!
Carl

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The True Value (part 1 of 2)

The statement has been frequently made that “talk is cheap.” What that means is it is often easier to say something than to really mean it in a manner in which there is follow through that reflects the truth of what has been declared. When words cease to hold true value, such creates distrust among people since they begin to perceive what is spoken actually possesses little or no worth at all. How much more serious this is when we think mere words or the use of particular religious terminology will work in our relationship with Jesus.

Jesus emphatically declared. . .
“(21) NOT EVERYONE WHO SAYS TO ME, ‘LORD, LORD,’ WILL ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21 (ESV)

For us to say “LORD, LORD”, would it be merely lip service, or does our life actually reflect an acknowledgment of HIS LORDSHIP? To say the words is one thing, but for Jesus to truly be the LORD OF OUR LIFE is something very far reaching and impacting for daily living.

What did the LORDSHIP of Jesus mean to Paul? We read. . .
“(20) as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always CHRIST WILL BE HONORED IN MY BODY, whether BY LIFE OR BY DEATH. (21) FOR TO ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:20-21 ESV)

Whatever the situation, Paul’s focus was toward honoring Christ. Christ had become the essence of his life and even if he faced death because of the relationship, he would honor Christ in that as well. Also, in writing to the church at Rome, Paul encouraged those Christians to focus toward the reality of whether they lived or died it was to be “TO THE LORD” because that is to Whom they belonged! (Romans 14:7-8) Therefore, let us understand that “LORD, LORD” is not to be viewed as the magic words that open doors or are simply used to get us in on His good graces. It is to be about a genuine relationship with Him where we have willingly surrendered to His Sovereignty over our life.

Though we should not be hesitant to say the words, Jesus clearly implied that just saying “LORD, LORD” is not enough. HIS LORDSHIP will be made evident through our willingness to submit to the Will of our Father in heaven. Part of that Will is to allow Jesus to truly be the Lord of our entire being. May our life continually reflect the genuineness of that relationship.

Have a great day ENJOYING THE RICHENESS OF A GENUINE RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR LORD!
Carl

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Being His!

Relationships can create challenges. They can also be a wonderful source of comfort and strength. Learning to properly love is emphasized throughout the Scriptures and is intended to enhance all relationships. Jesus even noted how loving God and loving one’s brother were foundational principles of the Law. (Matthew 22:37-40) He also taught that enemies were to be loved (Matthew 5:44) and parents were to be honored. (Matthew 19:19)

However, note what Jesus also pointed out to crowds who were following Him.
“(25) Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, (26) ‘If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLE.” (Luke 14:25-26 ESV)

Do we find that to be radical teaching? Does it strike us as being very challenging to our way of thinking? Hate? Where’s the love?

Sometimes it takes a radical statement to get our attention so that we can gain a proper perspective. The perspective we need to understand is that we are to LOVE OTHERS LESS so that we can LOVE JESUS MORE! Jesus’ words mark the magnitude of the SUPREME POSITION Jesus is to have in connection with our life. The real challenge is how easy it is to allow other things or relationships to come between us and our discipleship to Jesus.

Just as under the old law it was to be acknowledged that there was no other god before (Exodus 20:3) or beside (Deuteronomy 32:39) God, so in our relationship with Christ He is to be PREEMINENTLY SUPREME ABOVE ALL! Without a doubt, following Jesus is to be taken seriously. However, to love Jesus SUPREMELY will actually aid us in loving others in the manner He desires. In the process of following His example and teaching we will earn to love as He loves. Therefore, to begin with focusing our greatest love toward Jesus we will ultimately bring balance to the manner in which we approach all other relationships. May He be wholly our Sovereign Lord so that we may be wholly His.

Have a great day ALLOWING JESUS TO HAVE HIS RIGHTFUL PLACE IN OUR LIFE!
Carl

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Turf Wars!

Turf wars! The battle over territory! It happens! No, I am not talking about neighborhood gangs fighting to establish or maintain control of particular territory, but rather that which happens in individual yards around the neighborhood. There are the dandelions and other weeds that try to spread through the lawn, crowding out the lush green grass we enjoy relaxing on. To pull up those weeds generally leaves holes or bare spots in the lawn, but there is hope for the grass to eventually fill in those areas.

One of the teachers in our congregation mentioned yesterday morning about that battle going on in his yard. Desiring to take care of the weeds he got some TURF BUILDER that contains a weed killer to attack them and halt the spreading. However, that TURF BUILDER not only kills the weeds, but also contains a fertilizer that enhances the growth of the grass, meaning he is going to have to cut the grass more often. One product with two benefits: killing the weeds and helping the good grass to grow and fill in where the weeds have been.

There is another “turf war” that is waging in the lives of people. The devil wants to take control by trying to plant the seeds of his weeds in lives where God is desiring His good seed to grow. How can we best fight off the weeds while encouraging the growth of the good? Perhaps we could refer to God’s Word as TURF BUILDER that can kill the weeds while at the same time filling in those spots with the good seed that brings the lushness of godliness.

What are we allowing to take control of the territory of our life? What is growing and spreading within us? An untended life will go the direction of an untended lawn. That’s not a pretty picture. Therefore we must be mindful of who or what we are allowing to lay claim to the “turf” of our being?

Speaking to some who were unwilling to accept Him, Jesus state. . .
“(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.” (John 5:37-38 ESV)

And on another occasion Jesus asserted. . .
“I know that you are offspring of Abraham; yet you seek to kill me because MY WORD FINDS NO PLACE IN YOU.” (John 8:37 ESV)

Who was presently winning the “turf” war in their lives? Though they did not realize it, Jesus went on to point out that it was devil at work in them. (John 8:44) What they needed was to be more receptive to the “words of God” (John 8:47), for it would be then that they would be open to the influence Jesus desired to have in their life.

James exhorted. . .
“Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and RECEIVE WITH MEEKNESS THE IMPLANTED WORD, WHICH IS ABLE TO SAVE YOUR SOULS.” (James 1:21 ESV)

The Scriptures: God’s TURF BUILDER to eradicate the weeds and nurture the growth of godliness. By allowing the Word of God to be spread over and poured into our life, He will be able to establish His claim over all the “turf” of our being. Such is the only safeguard against the weeds of wickedness from replanting themselves and taking over. One source with two benefits. May we receive a daily treatment that the beauty of lush godliness may be seen.

Have a great day WITH THE LIFE BEING A FLOURISHING TERRITORY TENDED BY GOD!
Carl

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The Big Thing!

Sometimes people make a big deal of things that are actually small while considering too lightly that which is of greater significance. What this reveals is that HUMAN JUDGMENT is not always on target. One of the challenges of the church at Corinth was that their estimation of themselves and others was flawed. (note 2 Corinthians 10:12) There were some who created problems because of their arrogance. (1 Corinthians 4:18) With the limited perspective HUMAN JUDGMENT provides, conflict and division were a challenge to the fellowship of these Christians.

As Paul attempted to redirect the focus toward recognition of being servants of God and that servants are to be faithful to the task given (1 Corinthians 4:1-2), he wrote. . .

“(3) But with me it is A VERY SMALL THING THAT I SHOULD BE JUDGED BY YOU OR BY ANY HUMAN COURT. In fact, I do not even judge myself. (4) For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. IT IS THE LORD WHO JUDGES ME. (5) Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his COMMENDATION FROM GOD.” (1 Corinthians 4:3-5 ESV)

Paul could be criticized and spoken against by others (note 1 Corinthians 4:13) or even be judged by a human court. Though such experiences may create some anxiety for us, Paul viewed such HUMAN JUDGMENT as a “very small thing.” Even his own judgment of himself would not be perfect judgment. It is far too easy for us to either think more highly of ourselves than we ought or to put ourselves down more than we should and we may even waver between those two types of judgment during various moments of our life. There are also times when the line between a clear conscience and an attitude of self-righteousness may not be so easily distinguished. Since a conscience needs to be properly trained, it is not always a perfect guide.

What mattered most to Paul and should ultimately matter to us -- as we recognize HUMAN JUDGMENT (including our own) may give us some indication of how we are doing, even though it is limited in its perceptions -- is that GOD’S JUDGMENT is that to which our life is to be compared. All other judgment really amounts to nothing compared to His! It is God’s “commendation” we are to seek. Praise God for His Word to aid us in presently evaluating our life. (Hebrews 4:12) Since there is a day of final evaluation coming, let us be mindful of continually seeking God’s approval now. His measuring stick for living is the only stable standard.

Have a great day LOOKING TO GOD TO SEE HOW WE MEASURE UP!
Carl

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A Practical Flow!

There are some people who talk about things they really don’t know much about, but speak as if they were the expert. There are also those who seem ready to expect of others what they themselves are not attempting to carry out in their own life. Then there are individuals who do a lot of digging for information, but seem to have difficulty applying it to practical living. Reading through Ezra yesterday I was struck by the wisdom in which all of this ought to be logically and practically approached.

We read. . .
“For Ezra had SET HIS HEART TO STUDY the Law of the LORD, and TO DO IT and TO TEACH his statutes and rules in Israel.” (Ezra 7:10 ESV)

First Ezra had PREPARED HIS HEART to be receptive to God’s commands. If this does not precede OUR STUDY, we may merely become like those Paul accused of “always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:7) Then, when we HAVE STUDIED, we reveal our understanding of God’s Will by PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE in our daily life. Otherwise we are simply like one who looks at what our life is to be like, and then walks away forgetting what we are like. (note James 1:23-25) Having put God’s truths into practice in our life, we will then know best how TO SHARE those practical life principles with others and those who see us practicing them will be more open to that sharing. Who wants to be told how to live by someone who isn’t revealing how it actually works?

Do not these four steps -- a PREPARED HEART, the STUDYING of God’s Word, putting it into PRACTICE, and then TEACHING it to others -- appear to be a logical flow through which God’s Will can more successfully be translated from our heart to touch the hearts and lives of others? As with us, a lot depends on the heart condition of others as well. However, by beginning with our own heart open toward God, the genuineness of our seeking to do His Will and the testimony to its wisdom our life reveals through living it out, others stand a better chance of accepting its great relevancy still today. Should it be any surprise Ezra was such a great leader in drawing others back toward faithfulness to God? May our life be similarly fruitful to the glory of God.

Have a great day BEING A LIVING CONDUIT OF GOD’S WISDOM!
Carl

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Restless And Discontented!

Restlessness and discontentment can negatively impact the life. They can rob us of needed rest or lend toward a lack of appreciation for the good things we already possess as we hop about looking for proverbial “greener pastures” or the next good thing that might come along. However, a spirit of restlessness and discontent can also have a much needed impact when it accompanies a proper perspective of what God intends for our life.

The inventor Thomas A. Edison is quoted as saying, “Restlessness and discontent are the first necessities of progress.” The thing that works against needed progress is when we become too relaxed or comfortable and content with what we have or the way things are. When this happens there is little motivation for pursuing anything better. Just as this is true regarding life in general it can also be the cause of the lack of SPIRITUAL PROGRESS.

Peter exhorted those to whom he wrote. . .
“(5) For this very reason, MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO SUPPLEMENT YOUR FAITH with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, (6) and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, (7) and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. (8) For IF THESE QUALITIES ARE YOURS AND ARE INCREASING, THEY KEEP YOU FROM BEING INEFFECTIVE OR UNFRUITFUL IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.” (2 Peter 1:5-8 ESV)

When we think we have come to know all we can or feel we have grown as much as we can grow there will be little to instill a desire toward PROGRESSING in faith (Philippians 1:25), GROWING in the “grace and knowledge” of Jesus (2 Peter 3:18), or any other aspect relating to SPIRITUAL PROGRESS. It is through continued growing in the qualities Peter associated with a growing faith that our effectiveness and fruitfulness in knowledge and service will increase. May we be ever mindful of the room for ongoing SPIRITUAL PROGRESS in our life.

Have a great day INSPIRED TOWARD THE PURSUIT OF GREATER GODLINESS!
Carl

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Always On Our Mind!

What would we think if someone were talking with us and within the first few sentences they mentioned the name of someone nine times? Would we assume that person named was significant to them? Might we imagine they just could not get this individual off their mind? Could we also begin to think that perhaps they were trying to get us to note the significance of that person as well?

Are those we most deeply love continually on our mind? Are they not also the ones whom we love to talk about? As Paul began his first letter to the church at Corinth there is a name he mentioned nine times within the first nine verses. I’d like to suggest you stop reading this focus for a moment, pick up your Bible, and read those first nine verses. It will only take about a minute. However, as you do so, note also what Paul associated with this individual. Then return to read the rest of this focus.

Paul’s apostleship, the Corinthians’ sanctification (being set apart as holy), the name to be everywhere called upon, the source of grace and peace, the one linked to the testimony they had accepted, the one for whom they were awaiting when his day would come, and with whom they had been called into fellowship -- all of this was linked to none other than JESUS CHRIST their Lord and Paul’s. (1 Corinthians 1:1-9) Was He always on their mind, or were they getting sidetracked?

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

Bear in mind lack of unity was a problem in the church at Corinth. Paul knew the only way these brethren were going to find unity was to get the focus off of each other or those who had taught them (note 1 Corinthians 1:10-12) and CENTER IT ON CHRIST as the Lord of their life. As significant as Paul should have been them -- as the apostle of Christ who had labored among them for a year and a half (Acts 18:11) -- Paul didn’t want the focus to rest on Himself. Even when he did note his life as an example for them, he still raised to focus ultimately toward CHRIST. (1 Corinthians 11:1)

If JESUS CHRIST is truly the Lord of our life, is He always on our mind? Is what He thinks more of a motivation to us than what others think? How often do we talk about Him? Do others around us know how significant He is to us? Are we striving to help them realize how much He needs to be significant to them? May our conversation and life reveal how much JESUS CHRIST truly means to us.

Have a great day KEEPING CHRIST IN OUR LIFE AND CONVERSATION!
Carl

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Heart Of Harmony

When someone is described as being “TENDER HEARTED” it generally means the individual has a heart that is easily touched, allowing them to empathize (feel with) or at least sympathize (feel for) with whatever another is going through. This is a heart that allows one to “rejoice with those who rejoice” and “weep with those who weep”. (Romans 12:15) Such a TENDER HEART is easily drawn toward others because it gives consideration to their life experiences and goes a long way toward creating harmony (Romans 12:16) in the human experiences of life.

A TENDER HEART is a beautiful thing. As it is touched it brings the vision, thoughts, and hands together in reaching out to embrace those who need it most. It is an essence of the heart that lends well toward a life of service to others. It is also the heart God delights in seeing respond to Him.

During the reign of Josiah, as the temple was being repaired -- because the kings of Judah had let its buildings “go to ruin” (2 Chronicles 34:11 ESV) -- a discovery was made. The “Book of the Law of the LORD given through Moses” (2 Chronicles 34:14) had apparently been misplaced, but Hilkiah the priest found it as money that had been brought into the temple was being brought out. When Josiah had it read to him, he took to heart the commands and the warnings of God and that pleased Him.

In God’s message to Josiah we read. . .
“(26) ‘But to the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the LORD, thus shall you say to him, Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: Regarding the words that you have heard, (27) BECAUSE YOUR HEART WAS TENDER AND YOU HUMBLED YOURSELF BEFORE GOD WHEN YOU HEARD HIS WORDS against this place and its inhabitants, and you have humbled yourself before me and have torn your clothes and wept before me, I also have heard you, declares the LORD. (28) Behold, I will gather you to your fathers, and you shall be gathered to your grave in peace, and your eyes shall not see all the disaster that I will bring upon this place and its inhabitants.’ And they brought back word to the king.” (2 Chronicles 34:26-28 ESV)

Oh, what a huge difference it would have made for the kingdoms of Judah and Israel if all the kings had possessed the TENDER HEART of Josiah. Though disaster was still to come because of the wickedness of God’s people, it was going to be different for Josiah. He would not have to see it or experience it himself.

As with Josiah, possessing such a TENDER HEART toward God’s Word will continually make a huge difference for us as well. Every time we open the Book, let us allow ourselves to be personally touched by what we read. Such a heart will draw us into harmony with God as we step forward to do His Will and continue to experience His blessings in life. May the reading and hearing of God’s Word always be a very moving experience in that being toward the fulfillment of His Desire and Will in and through us.

Have a great day KEEPING THE HEART HUMBLY OPEN TOWARD GOD!
Carl

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Close Enough?

Being close can be encouraging, but contentment there can be more serious than perhaps we sometimes acknowledge; at least in some areas of life. Have we become satisfied with hitting close to something when the goal still needs to be on aiming for the precise target? To use an analogy from archery, we might feel good when we have at least hit the target. After all, some may be missing it altogether. However, isn’t the goal to hit the “BULL’S-EYE”? Until we do that, we are still MISSING THE MARK!

MISSING THE MARK! That is what sin (Greek, “hamartia) is; missing the mark and thus falling short of the goal for which we are to aim. Yet, how many times have we rationalized where we are in life by thinking that as long as we are hitting somewhere on the target most of the time we are close enough?

Jesus dealt with some who may have thought they were close enough to the target, but in reality still needed to take better aim. Though their actions may have appeared on target, what was revealed through a closer and deeper inspection of the life? What was the “BULL’S-EYE” or heart of the matter for which to aim?

Considering the first of two examples from Jesus’ sermon on the mount, we read . . .
“(21) “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ (22) But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.” (Matthew 5:21-22)

We might feel we are doing just fine because we have not killed another, but Jesus indicated the need for taking a serious look at the relationship itself. How are we speaking to or treating others? Our actions and words can kill enthusiasm, hope, joy, reputation, etc., as well as provide stress that could take a toll on another’s health. Jesus went on to point to the importance of focusing on the importance of right relationships even as one came to offer their worship to God. (Matthew 5:23-26) Such reveals doing what we can to reconcile relationships is important.

Now note a second example Jesus provided following this first.
“(27) “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ (28) But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”” (Matthew 5:27-28)

Someone might say, “Well, I didn’t commit the act, so I am okay. I’m close enough.” No! Jesus implied the MARK HAS BEEN MISSED and it is not close enough! It is not simply the outward act, but what is going on within that must be seen as being the “BULL’S-EYE” or heart of the target.

We may think we are close to the target, but if we do not recognize the true condition of our heart focus, we have MISSED THE MARK where God desires us to aim! May we continue aiming for the “BULL’S-EYE”, never becoming complacent with simply being close. While we continue to re-aim and shoot again, let us also be thankful to God for the help we have in Christ (1 John 2:1-6) as we acknowledge sin for what it is and appreciatively accept the forgiveness He provides. (1 John 1:9)

Have a great day DEVELOPING GREATER SPIRITUAL MARKMANSHIP!
Carl

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Passing Time -- Passing Promises!

There is a way in which passing time can sometimes work against us in this life. As time goes by we may forget the promises and commitments we have made in the past. With the passing of time we may also forget the promises and commitments others have made to us. For some this happens unintentionally. However, others may be hopeful that the passing of time will remove the remembrances in order to get themselves out of earlier commitments.

Praise God He is not like that. He will not forget His promises or commitment to us. The Psalmist wrote. . .

(7) He is the LORD our God; his judgments are in all the earth. (8) He REMEMBERS HIS COVENANT FOREVER, the word that he commanded, for a thousand generations, (9) the covenant that he made with Abraham, his sworn promise to Isaac,” (Psalm 105:7-9 ESV)

Oh, how we ought to appreciate that type of stability in the word of another. Oh, how we need that encouragement in this life to know there are at least some things we can count on for sure.
One of the promises God made to Abraham was that through his seed all nations would be blessed. We are able to be recipients of the benefit of that covenant still today as we are blessed with eternal life through the Lord Jesus Christ. Now, since we appreciate the FAITHFULNESS of God to His promises, should we not have the same view toward our own? May the essence of that character be evident in our life as well!

Have a great day TRUSTING GOD’S PROMISES AND KEEPING OURS!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 11/18/1998 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Ordered Lives!

Jotham was a king of Judah for sixteen years and was noted as having done what was right in the eyes of the Lord. (2 Chronicles 27:2) As his power on the throne became established, tribute was paid to him by the Ammonites. This was a period of security for the kingdom of Judah.

With regard to Jotham’s life we also find the following statement made.
“So Jotham became mighty, BECAUSE HE ORDERED HIS WAYS BEFORE THE LORD HIS GOD.” (2 Chronicles 27:6 ESV)

Jotham’s might and success were not linked merely to himself, but to the fact he aimed at bringing the ways of his life IN LINE WITH GOD. He focused on living a life of continuing service to the Lord. To have the ways of our life “ordered” would imply balance and PROPER PRIORITIZATION. Someone has described Jotham’s ordering of his ways as “moral habitude” (i.e. habitual behavior or practice). What is it that is marking our habitual behavior in the bringing of order to our life?

Jude exhorted. . .
“(20) But you, beloved, BUILDING YOURSELVES UP IN YOUR MOST HOLY FAITH and praying in the Holy Spirit, (21) KEEP YOURSELVES IN THE LOVE OF GOD, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” (Jude 20-21 ESV)

Building generally does not take place in a day. It is a process carried out in view of a blueprint that has been drawn up. The same is true with the building of our life in faith; a process developing from day to day and year to year. Through the continual practice of the Will of God our life becomes more orderly through the aid of God’s Divine wisdom and our humble, loving obedience. May we enjoy the experience of order God can bring to our life even as we live in a chaotic world. Through such an aim, those around us may begin to recognize the supreme wisdom of God’s Ways!

Have a great day DEVELOPING A GOD ORGANIZED LIFE!
Carl

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