FORGIVING LIKE JESUS!

FORGIVING LIKE JESUS!

Mark 11:25-26

25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

I’m toast! It’s hopeless! I don’t think I can forgive like Jesus forgave. He is, after all, the Champion forgiver. Oh, how I have hurt him and yet he forgave and continues to forgive me. I just don’t seem to be able to forgive like Jesus.

After a hurt, new rules are constructed in my mind regarding the offending party. The old rules of trust have been broken and if there is to be a relationship there must be new rules! Trust which I thought was unconditional has always rested on the condition that you would never hurt me. Now, after the hurt, I will restore you to fellowship only on the condition that you never hurt me again. I am so glad that Jesus does not function the same way with me!

How can we forgive like Jesus forgave? Wycliffe says: The point here is that a disciple cannot pray effectively if an unforgiving spirit has broken his fellowship with God. I would suppose that the first prayer of ANY prayer must be a prayer asking for cleansing from an unforgiving spirit. Each time we pray it is a reminder not only of Jesus’ forgiveness of our sins but of our need to extend the same courtesy to those who have wronged us.

I find that the portions of Scripture that really bother me must also trouble the “scholars” because there is not much definitive information on Mark 11:25 & 26. I am left to the clear teaching of Scripture. God has forgiven me and He does not take kindly to my withholding forgiveness from others. The problem is that I’m not Jesus. I need forgiveness even for my unforgiving spirit.

Col 3:12-13

12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

Dear Lord, please forgive my unforgiving spirit. Put your very own Spirit in me. AMEN

A GOD SO BIG!

A GOD SO BIG!

Job 37:23

23 Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict.

Elihu, one of Job’s “friends” had come to watch Job suffer and to try and make some sense of it all. It simply did not make any sense! Job, by all observation was a fastidious and righteous man and yet he was suffering as if he had awakened the wrath of God. Job’s sin, if there was a sin, could not be determined although, measured by the actions of God, it must be huge and horrible.

Job had steadfastly proclaimed his innocence and had complained that God was acting in a way that seemed contrary to His nature. The prevailing concept of the day was that God punished sin and rewarded righteousness? This placed the burden of our relationship with God squarely upon the shoulders of human performance rather than the mercy and grace of a loving God. Why, then was Job suffering if he was guiltless? Neither Job nor his friends could have imagined the conflict in Heaven or of God’s grand purposes.

Adam Clarke’s commentary says of the phrase [He will not afflict.] Lo' yªaneh, he will not ANSWER. He will give account of none of his matters to us. We cannot comprehend his motives, nor the ends he has in view.

When we try to force God to be thoroughly understood by our minds we make Him so small that he can’t act as He must. Majesty is lost and glory fades in our shrinking of God to our own human size.

Rom 11:33

33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

1 Tim 6:16

16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.

Dear Lord, when we contemplate your majesty we agree with the Psalmist who said “what is man that thou art mindful of him.” Yet you bend low to attend to us and you condescend to care for us. Thank you God! AMEN

THE PLIGHT OF MODERN MISSIONS ACTIVITY!

THE PLIGHT OF MODERN MISSIONS ACTIVITY!

With today marking the last day of our annual “Faith Promise” Mission Conference, I thought it appropriate to post this blog from 2010. Enjoy!

A recent poll found that mission givers can be classified as:

Yeppies: Activism fed via social media. These give to food banks, Red Cross, Etc.

Rapid Responders: Project giving on an individual basis - they respond to the “emotionally felt” need. These respond to disasters but are not as interested in long-term solutions to on-going problems.

The mission-minded: Older Americans, usually, who are faith-driven. These understand that a structure needs to be built in order to sustain a Christian culture.

Jesus outlined the difficulties of mission endeavor in these following verses.

Luke 10:2-7

2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.

3 Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.

4 Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way.

5 And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.

6 And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again.

7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire.

In a nut shell, this is what Jesus said.

1] The opportunity to present the Gospel and to reach people is much greater than those  who are willing to actually go and to do the work.

2] Mission workers are the result of prayer. Imagine that!

3] The work is dangerous – “lambs among wolves” – this requires caution and wisdom. There will be some casualties.

4] This is guerilla warfare. Don’t carry too much “stuff.” Provisions will be made available along the way.

5] Don’t become distracted – “salute no man by the way.”

6] Go where you are invited.

7] God will lead you to those prepared to receive the Gospel.

8] Don’t spend too much time grieving over those who reject – “if not, your peace shall turn to you again.”

9] Be satisfied with the results your culture provides – “eating and drinking such things as they give.”

10] Receive your “pay” matter-of-factly – the laborer is worthy.

Mission efforts are expensive and dangerous. Mission giving does not appeal to the quick fix, soothe-your-conscience people. Mission involvement is for those who understand it is a long term investment.

Dear Lord, today please protect and provide for our missionaries. Help me to have both the heart and the resources needed to partner with them. AMEN

THE ALABASTER BOX!

THE ALABASTER BOX!

Matt 26:1-7

26:1 And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples,

2 Ye know that after two days is the feast of the Passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified.

3 Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas,

4 And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him.

5 But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.

6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,

7 There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.

Simon had been a leper whom Jesus had cleansed. The nickname stuck and either was a caustic reminder of his past or a proud trophy of God’s grace. Simon, “the leper” would always be both of these things. We should always remember who we once were and who we now are.

Luke, in his seventh chapter, adds many details to this story including the fact that the woman was a notorious sinner. John tells a similar story about Mary, sister to Martha and Lazarus, who anointed Jesus’ feet. But there seems to be sufficient differences to doubt they are the same event.

As Jesus marched steadily, and calmly, toward the cross, He found in this selfless act a kindred spirit. This woman did not ask how little she may give in honoring her Lord but how much. She did not weigh the value of her act; it was others who said it was “a waste.” So it may be said of the death of Jesus as men, still unsaved and unconvinced, shake their head at such a waste of human life and wisdom. Those who think that Jesus was only a misguided idealist may mourn his tragic martyrdom but miss the real significance of his death.

What if the alabaster box had been sold and the money used to feed the poor? The poor would have consumed the value of the box and then returned to their poor estate. What if Jesus had lived and had properly assimilated into the culture of his time as a great teacher? New concepts and noble acts might have been the result but sinners would only have learned to act more nobly. They would have remained sinners still. No, the box must be shattered and the life must be spilled out! With an amazing disregard, Jesus poured Himself out and the result was transforming!

Dear Lord, thank you for allowing yourself to be broken and poured out for me. AMEN

ONE HEART!

ONE HEART!

Acts 4:32-33

32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.

33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

Jer 32:39

39 And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them:

          The early church was able to grow rapidly and accomplish much because each one lent their strength to the common good. The Holy Spirit had most recently come upon all of them and their number had grown from 150 to over 3,000 members. They were energized! They were focused on a goal! No one felt that any of their things belonged to them exclusively. Each one was ready to cast in their tiny bit with the rest to make up whatever was needed.

          Selfishness destroys great enterprises! One tiny raindrop alone will soon sizzle and die upon the hot and hard-packed ground but let that one drop be joined by many others and soon a flood appears. The steaming ground is cooled and the stony earth soon becomes supple and soft. Great enterprises require unity!

          We will likely fail if we insist on our own way. Great causes often require great sacrifice. Selfish interests must be put away for a more peaceful time. Today the battle rages and we stand together to defeat a common enemy. The result is that it will be good for all of them and for their children after them.

Dear Lord, let me set aside my own self to join others in the cause for godliness and for good. AMEN

GRIEVE NOT THE HOLY SPIRIT!

GRIEVE NOT THE HOLY SPIRIT!

Eph 4:30

30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

          The word “grieve” here is the Greek word ‎lupeo which means “to distress; to cause to be sad; to make sorry.” I think we are not always aware of the emotional relationship we have with the Spirit of Jesus. He rejoices when we walk straight but is sad when we stagger. An overview of this fourth chapter reveals at least three ways in which we may cause the Holy Spirit to be sad.

          First, we do so by giving way to wrong temper! We may walk about with a seething anger which colors all our world. Something or someone has irritated us – maybe we are angry at ourselves – and we slam doors and kick the cat. The word “let” in verse 31 is a word that means “to sail away or to weigh anchor.” We must choose to send the wrong temper away with the wind.

          Next, we grieve the Holy Spirit with unholy words. The “corrupt communication” found in verse 29 literally means “morally worthless words.” Oh, how careful we must be in this. Consider also that our speech has roots in our thoughts. Positively, we should try to speak those that minister grace to the hearers.

          Finally, we grieve the Holy Spirit by our unrighteous actions. Our temper and our words ultimately produce unholy deeds. We may hide these from family, friends, and associates but we can never hide them from God. How pitiful we must appear to the God who spilt His blood to cleanse us.

Dear Holy Spirit, many times I am guilty of a seething anger and frustration which vents itself in unholy speech and unrighteous actions. Let us sit and weep together till the grief be swept away with tears. AMEN

IS GOD PRUNING YOU!

IS GOD PRUNING YOU!

John 15:1-2

15 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

          Spring has come and my wife’s roses and crepe myrtle’s had welcomed the sun with some wild growth. Rather than rejoice at all this new growth she could hardly wait to take her pruning shears to their branches. Roses, she told me, need to be “cut back” for their own good. All the new growth seems to demand the life energy from the prickly stalk, making it less able to supply the blooms. Pruning helps the roses – but it looks like she is trying to kill the plant.

          The goal of the grapevine is to produce grapes. It also needs to have the dead twigs cut away. Jesus, as quoted by John, was not talking about grapevines but believers! Every now and then God takes something away from us so that we can grow and produce more fruit. We don’t always understand and we usually think God is trying to kill us. We moan and wail that He has removed not only the dead twigs but has cut deep into the living ones as well. We feel we have suffered loss but the result – after some healing – is even more fruit.

          The word “taketh away” is the Greek airo and it means “to lift up; to suspend; to sail away.” It is interesting to note that one of the possible translations of this word is “to make to doubt!” Why would God lift us up and away or to make us to doubt? Immediately we cry out to God and claim that he has made some horrible mistake by taking away a perfectly good branch. It seems healthy enough but we don’t see like the husbandman. His plan is not only fruit – but more fruit.

          The word “purge” is the Greek kathairo which means “to cleanse.” God allows tribulation to come into our lives. He allows us to suffer loss and, after the pain has subsided, we are able to see what God saw. What we lost was keeping us from bearing fruit; keeping us from growing in the way He wanted.

‎          “The vine-dresser will often feel himself compelled to lop off a branch that is large, apparently thrifty, and handsome, but which bears no fruit, and which shades or injures those which do. So God often takes away the property of his people, their children, or other idols. He removes the objects which bind their affections, and which render them inactive. He takes away the things around man, as he did the valued gourds of Jonah (Jonah 4:5-11), so that he may feel his dependence, and live more to the honor of God, and bring forth more proof of humble and active piety.” (from Barnes' Notes.)

1 Peter 1:6-7

6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:

7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

Dear Lord, I yield my branches to your pruning knife. Let me be a fruitful vine. AMEN

I HURT WITH THEM!

I HURT WITH THEM!

Jer 8:21-22

21 For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me.

22 Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?

          Jeremiah was a faithful prophet and shepherd of his people. Although their hurt was caused by rebellion and neglect of their God, yet Jeremiah shared their pain. He said: “I am covered with so much sack cloth and ashes that I am black!” He was astonished at the severity. There seemed to be no end.

          I hurt when my people hurt. It’s not a choice which I have made so I can’t claim any saintliness because of it. It is automatic. This burden was gently lowered upon my shoulders by God. It is always there but sometimes it is heavier than at other times. The work of the shepherd in Psalm 23 is always a reminder to me that I am to lead by still waters and green pasture. I am to protect from predators and sooth wounds and injuries. I am to provide an atmosphere of peace.

          Jesus is the true healing balm. Turning to Him in repentance mitigates the pain of punishment. Running to Him in times of trouble guarantees His attention as protector and provider. Nestling close to Him is a soothing comfort and consolation when the cure is not soon in coming. The salve of the Savior is what we need today.

Dear Lord, apply the ointment of your own Holy Spirit upon the hurts of my people today. AMEN

EVERYDAY MIRACLES!

EVERYDAY MIRACLES!

John 2:11

11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.

Easton says that a miracle is…

"The suspension or violation of the laws of nature is constantly taking place around us. One force counteracts another: vital force keeps the chemical laws of matter in abeyance; and muscular force can control the action of physical force. When a man raises a weight from the ground, the law of gravity is neither suspended nor violated, but counteracted by a stronger force. The same is true as to the walking of Christ on the water and the swimming of iron at the command of the prophet. The simple and grand truth that the universe is not under the exclusive control of physical forces, but that everywhere and always there is above, separate from and superior to all else, an infinite personal will, not superseding, but directing and controlling all physical causes, acting with or without them." God ordinarily effects his purpose through the agency of second causes; but he has the power also of effecting his purpose immediately and without the intervention of second causes, i.e., of invading the fixed order, and thus of working miracles. Thus we affirm the possibility of miracles, the possibility of a higher hand intervening to control or reverse nature's ordinary movements -- Easton's Bible Dictionary.

Most of the miracles we witness are through the “agency of second causes” when one naturally occurring force supersedes another naturally occurring force. But there are wonders that cause us to shake our head and…well…wonder!

What is it that causes a prodigal son, or daughter, to suddenly stop and return home? What causes a grumpy and selfish old sour to suddenly turn sweet and benevolent? What makes a hell-bent sinner consider his ways and suddenly change course? It’s a miracle of spirit and attitude showing the power of the invisible Holy Spirit upon the invisible spirits of men. We can’t see the quiet and constant deliberations within. We are made to wonder at the sudden change.

Acts 9:1-6

9:1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,

2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:

4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Dear Lord, let me see the wonder of every day miracles today. AMEN

ON BEING A SEPARATIST!

ON BEING A SEPARATIST!

2 Cor 6:14-18

14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

On Thursday, the 64 year old evangelist, Franklin Graham wrote on his Facebook page, "The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) approved redefining marriage in the church constitution Tuesday to include a "commitment between two people," becoming the largest Protestant group to formally recognize gay marriage and allow same-sex weddings in congregations. In His Word, the Bible, God has already defined marriage, as well as sin, and we should obey that rather than looking for ways to redefine it according to the desires of our culture. Marriage is defined as between a man and a woman-end of discussion. Anything else is a sin against God, and He will judge all sin one day."

          Baptists have always been separatists! A study of our history reveals a desire to sustain a pure adherence to the Word of God and the truth found therein. Martyrdom has often been the result of such strict and stubborn choices.

          Should you separate yourself from your liberal church or denomination? Well, that is something you will need to decide both cautiously and carefully. However, when your church or denomination begins to abandon the truth perhaps leaving to find a more biblically based family of believers is warranted. The word “agreement” in verse 16 is the Greek word sugkatatithemai and it means “to deposit one’s vote or opinion in company with; to be in one accord with.”

Dear Lord, help us to see that sometimes it is necessary to separate ourselves from error so that we might remain closer to you. AMEN

TROPHIES OF GRACE!

TROPHIES OF GRACE!

Ps 56:8

8 Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?

Rev 8:4

4 And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand.

1 Thess 2:19-20

19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

20 For ye are our glory and joy.

          For reasons known only to God, we humans are the subject of His great care and attention. Our prayers ride the incense and are said to be a “sweet smelling savor” in the nostrils of God. Our tears are precious to Him. He collects them in His bottle as something to be treasured. Paul told the Thessalonians that they were his crown of rejoicing. Each one was a trophy of grace. So it is with every good pastor. Each lamb of the flock provides tears, prayers and joy. 

          You are greatly loved by God. He takes peculiar care of you. His eye is upon you and he knows the number of the hairs on your head. He is keenly aware of whatever you are going through today. Even now, unseen angels keep watch over you. You are His peculiar treasure.

Dear Lord, I am unworthy of such great care and attention but I thank you for it. AMEN

THE END TIME CHURCH!

THE END TIME CHURCH!

Rev 3:14-22

14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;

15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:

18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

The Features of this church!

It is a “tepid” church. It is a “room temperature” church because it has settled down to the temperature of the times. It has become fashioned like the world it is supposed to change. It makes God want to throw up! If it were hot then God might honor and bless it. If it were cold then God might be challenged to condemn it but it is neither and simply serves to create nausea in the belly of the Divine. It is today’s church.

It thinks itself to be rich! It boasts of the finest facilities with lavish lighting and productions that rival professional theaters. Its leaders are so educated they need an enlarged hat size! Disdain is heaped upon volunteers in favor of professionals. They are specialists in their field and enjoy multiple leaders in each church.

It is unaware of its true poverty! It is full of spiritual paupers who are unchanged, unclothed and unseeing! God suggests that this church invest in the Gold of salvation, the raiment of righteousness and the eye salve of repentance. These are the true riches it has discarded for fool’s gold.

It is the church with God at the door!  Although He stands outside, yet He is knocking to enter. Why is the Master not invited to the celebration? Why must we make Him knock?

Now the Function of this church!

It is the church of “any man”! While the general congregation is unresponsive there is still hope for the individual who will answer the knock at the door. Jesus will then come in and sup with HIM [the individual]. These individual ones provide the spiritual heat. Since they are in a fellowshipping relationship with the Master, their opinion is often the same as His. They are sick of their church as it is but feel compelled to continue to promote spiritual revival.

The Lost may still find Christ here! The message has not completely changed. The truth, although watered down, is clear enough that the desperate may still find relief.

It may yet be revived – but only through discipline!

Rev 3:19

19 Those whom I [dearly and tenderly] love, I tell their faults and convict and convince and reprove and chasten [I discipline and instruct them]. So be enthusiastic and in earnest and burning with zeal and repent [changing your mind and attitude].

AMPLIFIED NEW TESTAMENT

Dear Lord, I pray for today’s church because I see it in these verses.  I pray for myself because I am there too. Revive my church and revive my heart. In Jesus’ name, AMEN!

JESUS CALMS THE STORM!

JESUS CALMS THE STORM!

Mark 4:35-41

35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.

36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.

38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?

39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?

41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

          I grew up in Ohio and throughout all my childhood days the month of March was a windy month. The old saying was: “March: in like a lion -- out like a lamb.” If the month began with strong winds then by the end of the month it would be fair and calm. March was a month of transition from winter to spring and in the Midwest the cold fingers of winter did not so easily release her icy grip. There would be a struggle either at the beginning or at the end of the month. You could count on it!

          Another thing you could count on was the beginning of spring and the calm that it brought. Even if March blew in with a gale the mind knew the struggle would be over soon. Red breasted robins would magically appear dancing their morning worm dance. They would run a bit and then cock their heads to listen for the wriggle of the worm. Forsythia and pussy-willow would stubbornly bloom along with Daffodils. Even as the wind whipped our face we knew spring was coming.

          Perhaps that is why Jesus could so easily sleep on a pillow while the winds caused seasoned fishermen to fear. He knew the wind wouldn’t last long. When he was awakened he rebuked the wind for their sakes and there was a great calm. The sea stopped its churning, the sails fluttered in a gentle breeze and the boat stopped her fierce rocking. So it is when Jesus speaks to our fears.

          So remember: “In like a lion – out like a lamb!” If today begins with a rush Jesus can make it hush.

Dear Lord, please calm the fierce winds of my life today. AMEN

A MORNING WITHOUT CLOUDS!

A MORNING WITHOUT CLOUDS!

2 Sam 23:3-4

3 The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.

4 And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.

          Verse one tells us that “these be the last words of David.” The final formal proclamation. It was a summation of his leadership. His message was simple and straightforward. Those who rule over men must be just. The Hebrew word is tsaddiyq and means “lawful and righteous.” And, in case the point was missed, he clarifies by saying that the ruler must rule in the fear of God.

          A ruler should be bound to obey and adhere to the same rule of law that he demands of his subjects. Any ruler who feels himself to be above the law will, by the law, be deposed. The intimation is that God requires that leaders be especially responsive to His guidance. Proverbs 29:2 tells us why this is so. “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.”

          The idea of “a morning without clouds” gives the idea of clarity of leadership. There is no double standard or double-talk. Hearing a speech or decree, one should not be left baffled as to what is said or meant. Crystal clear commands are required. When it is otherwise the people do not know how to respond. “For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” 1 Cor 14:8

Dear Lord, give our nation leadership that is just. Let them rule over us in the fear of God. Let them write laws that they, themselves, are willing to obey. AMEN

DEADLINES!

DEADLINES!

Luke 12:19-20

19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.

20 But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

          Deadlines! Have you ever thought of why they call them that? A deadline is the absolute last date and time that a person has to complete a project. I face them all the time! So do you. Some of them are known and seen and they loom large on the horizon and grow larger the closer we get to them. Like paddling a small boat in the calm pool just before reaching Niagara Falls, we hear the roar and feel the mist just before plummeting to our deaths. We’ve crossed a deadline.

          Life is full of deadlines! The Bible urges us in many places to be prepared especially for those deadlines that are unseen. The wealthy and successful farmer could think of no solution better than tearing down his barns and building new ones. He knew that one day he would die but his expectation was “for many years,” Jesus announced, however, that death would be “this night.” He had reached a deadline and was unprepared. He had not given any serious consideration to his relationship with the God he was soon to meet.

          What about you? Have you made plans for many years? Is everything going according to schedule? Are you prepared for those known deadlines that are approaching? Are you ready for those that are unseen? If you’ve been putting off connecting with God, perhaps today would be a good day to prepare for that certain deadline.

Dear Lord, One day we all must stand before you. Let us do it with great joy and not dread. AMEN

COURAGE FROM DEEP CONVICTION!

COURAGE FROM DEEP CONVICTION!

 

Luke 23:46-54

46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.

48 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.

49 And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

50 And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:

51(The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

52 This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.

53 And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

54 And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.

Joseph of Arimathaea was a counselor according to verse 50. He was a bouleutes (bool-yoo-tace'); an adviser, or member of the Jewish Sanhedrin. He had not agreed with the verdict and condemnation of Jesus. He was a good man and a just man. He waited for the kingdom of God which meant he was watching for Messiah to appear. His actions indicate that he found Him.

It took great courage to request the body of Jesus. It indicated that he was an associate of Jesus and possibly guilty of the same sedition that sent Jesus to the cross. He placed himself in mortal jeopardy to honor Jesus. It was a manly deed that came from deep conviction.

Joseph took the body down. He had to touch it, handle it, carry it, wash it and wrap it in linen. Along with Nicodemus he had to rub the body down with spices and lay it in a tomb while the Sabbath drew on! The importance of this seemingly unimportant remark in verse 54 meant that he would be unclean and disqualified to participate in the Passover celebration.

Num 9:6

6 And there were certain men, who were defiled by the dead body of a man, that they could not keep the Passover on that day: and they came before Moses and before Aaron on that day:

Joseph placed himself in mortal danger. He spent not only energy but money to anoint the body of Jesus. He made himself ceremonially unclean and deprived himself of something highly valued by the Jews. Why did he do such a thing? The simple answer is the one given by the Roman soldier standing by who said: “Certainly this was a righteous man.” The deeper answer was that Joseph and Nicodemus had found their Messiah.

Dear Lord, let me be courageous today and not shrink from the hard things that may be required of me. AMEN

YOU’RE STRONGER THAN THAT!

YOU’RE STRONGER THAN THAT!

2 Cor 12:9

9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

          If you have ever been injured or have had surgery and needed physical therapy, you know the dread of having to strain those relaxed joints and muscles. You know the therapist is going to challenge you – really challenge you. The therapist is going to push you till it hurts. He is going to manipulate those wounded areas and get the blood flowing again. What is really saying is: “You’re stronger than you think.”

          If you have ever experienced an emotional or spiritual hurt you may be afraid to try again. You have found a level of discomfort you think you can live with and you just hang out there. God then comes along and challenges you – really challenges you to walk by faith one more time. He will ask you to move ahead in uncertainty and risk manipulating those wounded places once again. You don’t think you can endure it but God thinks you can because He is going to add His strength to yours. What He’s saying is: “You’re stronger than you think.”

          So, when the challenges come, don’t think of them as enemies to your comfort zone. Think of them as therapy. You are on the road to recovery and God is your therapist.

Eph 3:14-16

14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,

16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

Dear Lord, someone today is afraid to try again. Give them your strength and your Spirit. AMEN

FAITH DOESN’T ADD UP!

FAITH DOESN’T ADD UP!

Heb 11:1

11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

          Math, at least the kind of math I am familiar with, is an exact and unforgiving science. Two plus Two is always four. But faith applies the same formula and comes up with more. Faith is able to construct what engineering can’t.

          This is the only place in the Bible where we have what might be called a definition of faith. The rest of the chapter lists the exploits accomplished by faith. They are unbelievable things. Faith just doesn’t add up. The word translated “substance" occurs in Heb 3:14; 2 Cor 9:4; 11:17, and is translated "confidence." The word translated "evidence" is from a verb which signifies "to convince." "Faith is the confidence of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

          Faith sometimes means that conviction of the understanding which results from proofs laid before it, or arguments understood. This is that which the woman wrought among her neighbors when she came back from the conversation with Jesus at Jacob's well. This also is the faith which Thomas had when asked to put his hand in the side of his Lord. But our Lord immediately added, "Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed."

          If you read the rest of chapter 11 you clearly see an element of uncertainty in every act of faith. Noah’s act of building a huge boat to spare a remnant of creation had no reasonable foundation. He was moved by fear, the Bible says. Motivated by an internal uneasiness and a firm conviction that an impossible thing was about to happen.

How Firm A Foundation

When through the deep waters I call thee to go,

The rivers of woe shall not thee overflow;

For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless,

And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.

When through fiery trials thy pathways shall lie,

My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply;

The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design

Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.

Dear Lord! It doesn’t add up but I will say yes. AMEN