Our recent focus on Matthew 5 has given me an appreciation of Jesus’ radical teaching. The scene is the hills of Galilee. Jesus sitting on a mountaintop addresses his flock. A consistent theme in this chapter is that mere legalism in following God’s commands is not enough. One must obey the spirit behind the law. Thus Jesus asks his disciples not just to greet their friends, but also those who are unlike them. He asks them not to just love their friends, but even pray for those who persecute them. Further he enjoins them to bless those who falsely accuse them. On and on Jesus continues to challenge orthodox rabbinical teaching, where they taught that righteousness was based on fulfilling their version of the law.
You can just imagine the Pharisees hearing Jesus’ teaching and seething with anger. Jesus finally says except your righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. “But how could this be?” A faithful Jewish peasant would ask. After all the Pharisees were the most righteous of all.
Jesus in giving his version of the law evokes a new law. Something only Moses had done hundreds of years earlier. Jesus was essentially saying look I am now effecting a new law. Moses law was good, and yes we should follow it, but a higher law is here now. One who is greater than Moses is now here. This law is one of love, one of the spirit of the law, not just the letter. According to Matthew 22:37-40, the greatest law is loving God and one’s neighbour, thus love is the foundation of the law.
Jesus concludes in verse 48 by saying “be perfect therefore as your heavenly Father is perfect”. We know perfection is impossible, but Jesus refers to completion. If we choose to be like God, and complete His wishes for us, then we need to fully follow his commands by placing our highest priority on loving one another.
Jesus new law for you and I then is not just to be honest, kind, and obedient. But to radically love when it is both convenient and inconvenient. To place ourselves last and others first. To live sacrificial lives whereby our desire is to be more and more like Christ who gave all for sinners. For it is only in doing thus that we will inherit the kingdom of heaven.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Hold on, its not yet time!
Yet, but not yet. The perpetual tension seen in scripture is thematic in our reading today of Romans 8. God’s kingdom, inaugurated by Christ has always been multi-tiered. Christ appears as the manifestation of God’s kingdom, he heals, delivers, meets needs and models a godly community of love and care. Yet by his own admittance, this kingdom has only just begun. The end of the age has not yet appeared. Thus in this moment, there will still be injustice and oppression, disease and sickness, strife and dissension. The only solace that Christ brings is freedom in the spirit which is microcosmic of the universal kingdom that God plans to normalize at the end of the age. For now the Christians can demonstrate this life that will be, yet they will struggle with the challenges of this fallen world. Christ promises freedom, but this freedom is limited to the body of Christ, and the vestiges of the world it chooses to influence. God’s kingdom remains now, but not yet.
Continuing with this theme, Paul describes the tension of not achieving our full redemption as a woman in childbirth. We who are now trapped in earthly vessels, long with tremendous burden to become the full children of God. Whereby not just our hearts and minds, but also our bodies will be transformed. Paul reminds them that even creation itself and the current worldly order, will also be delivered in the apocalypse. Finally, Paul offers the spirit as our ever present comfort. His consistent message to the Romans bears significance for us. We can win the fight over the flesh, if we lean on the power of the spirit. For the spirit knows our weakness, and also knows God strengths. Thus a life lived in the Spirit is able to close the gap between the far off kingdom of heaven that appears to be not yet while helping us believers to realize a taste of heaven in the here and now.
Continuing with this theme, Paul describes the tension of not achieving our full redemption as a woman in childbirth. We who are now trapped in earthly vessels, long with tremendous burden to become the full children of God. Whereby not just our hearts and minds, but also our bodies will be transformed. Paul reminds them that even creation itself and the current worldly order, will also be delivered in the apocalypse. Finally, Paul offers the spirit as our ever present comfort. His consistent message to the Romans bears significance for us. We can win the fight over the flesh, if we lean on the power of the spirit. For the spirit knows our weakness, and also knows God strengths. Thus a life lived in the Spirit is able to close the gap between the far off kingdom of heaven that appears to be not yet while helping us believers to realize a taste of heaven in the here and now.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Shy?
The gospel and being shy are not synonymous terms. In Romans 1:16, Paul writes that he is not ashamed of the gospel. The message translation says
I'm most proud to proclaim, this extraordinary Message of God's powerful plan to rescue everyone who trusts him, starting with Jews and then right on to everyone else! God's way of putting people right shows up in the acts of faith, confirming what Scripture has said all along: "The person in right standing before God by trusting him really lives."
As I look at this verse I see several words or phrases immediately. “Most Proud”, “extraordinary message”, “rescue” , “powerful plan”.
These words tend to convict. Think of the last time you talked about Christ to someone who was a non-believer.
The obvious question is have you talked to someone recently about Christ?
The next question is did you really think you are “rescuing” them from any imminent danger?
Were you “most proud” of the message you had to proclaim, or was it a burden, stressful or even difficult to say what was on your heart?
Did the “extraordinary” nature of the message make you excited to share the good news with someone?
Were you convinced that your solution would be a “powerful plan” able to help solve core issues in their lives?
Did you find you were shy, or you could boldly share this message?
Work through these questions this week. I am.
Don’t let shyness rob you of the joys of participating in the greatest rescue mission ever known to humanity. Embrace the cause that you have joined with when you got saved. Reflect on the nature of your calling. Like Paul, realize that God needs you to proclaim his powerful message in a consistent fashion to people around you everyday. Pray specifically for God’s boldness to remove shyness, apathy and complacency from your life.
My challenge to you as we meditate on this portion of scripture from our daily reading is this:
Find someone this week to share the rescue plan of the ages to them – the gospel.
Pray first. Ask God to lead. Don’t wait or think too much, just do what makes sense after you have prayed. Step out, and be bold about it.
Remember, the power to save is not in you, but in the words of God that you speak.
I'm most proud to proclaim, this extraordinary Message of God's powerful plan to rescue everyone who trusts him, starting with Jews and then right on to everyone else! God's way of putting people right shows up in the acts of faith, confirming what Scripture has said all along: "The person in right standing before God by trusting him really lives."
As I look at this verse I see several words or phrases immediately. “Most Proud”, “extraordinary message”, “rescue” , “powerful plan”.
These words tend to convict. Think of the last time you talked about Christ to someone who was a non-believer.
The obvious question is have you talked to someone recently about Christ?
The next question is did you really think you are “rescuing” them from any imminent danger?
Were you “most proud” of the message you had to proclaim, or was it a burden, stressful or even difficult to say what was on your heart?
Did the “extraordinary” nature of the message make you excited to share the good news with someone?
Were you convinced that your solution would be a “powerful plan” able to help solve core issues in their lives?
Did you find you were shy, or you could boldly share this message?
Work through these questions this week. I am.
Don’t let shyness rob you of the joys of participating in the greatest rescue mission ever known to humanity. Embrace the cause that you have joined with when you got saved. Reflect on the nature of your calling. Like Paul, realize that God needs you to proclaim his powerful message in a consistent fashion to people around you everyday. Pray specifically for God’s boldness to remove shyness, apathy and complacency from your life.
My challenge to you as we meditate on this portion of scripture from our daily reading is this:
Find someone this week to share the rescue plan of the ages to them – the gospel.
Pray first. Ask God to lead. Don’t wait or think too much, just do what makes sense after you have prayed. Step out, and be bold about it.
Remember, the power to save is not in you, but in the words of God that you speak.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Fellowship
In Acts 14, Paul is persecuted in the Lycaonian cities. Jews from Antioch have followed Paul to his current destination. They incite the crowd with hatred against Paul, ultimately resulting in a murder attempt against Paul. The crowds physically throw stones at Paul until he was presumed dead. They then dragged him outside the city and left him to the vultures.
As I meditate on our daily reading in Acts 14, verse 25 speaks volume to me. This is where the disciples gather around Paul’s body, and after some indeterminate amount of time Paul astonishingly gets up, and returns to the city with the believers. In analyzing this verse three words are key, disciples, gather and up.
The disciples represented a group of people who were followers of Christ. They have abandoned worldly aspirations, turned their back to cultural dictates, forsaken personal dreams, and have latched on to Jesus Christ for fulfillment and meaning.
Their gathering represents their potency. In multiple places throughout acts we see several instances of what happens when disciples gather. In Acts 2 gathered in a room, the supernatural power of God invades their fellowship, and people speak in tongues. In Acts 4, after being persecuted by the Sanhedrin, Peter and John gather with the disciples, and upon praying the place was physically shaken. Elsewhere in Acts, Peter is led out of Jail by an angel, while the disciples are gathered in a home praying. Gathering together of God’s people ultimately results in a powerful display of the supernatural. That is the message that Acts leaves us with.
The final word is up. Paul we are told got up. Due to the gathering of the disciples around him, Paul got up. This speaks of encouragement. We are not told the intricacies of this miracle. All we know is Paul was presumed dead and deserted by his persecutors. This means he would have been hideously wounded, up to the point where he looked dead. Thus, for him to even get up and walk away with the disciples would have been a miracle. As I reflect on this event, I wonder if maybe God supernaturally healed Paul as the disciples prayed. Or maybe the disciples lovingly massaged his body back to life. They could have even been with him for hours waiting for signs of life, and then once he revived they helped him as he got up, and walked to the city. The point here is it was all miraculous and this would have never happened without the fellowship of the disciples.
What do you do in your gathering? Whether you go out to minister as a group, or just collectively fellowship in a coffee shop is immaterial. What happens at your group times? Understand that God’s power is literally present each time his disciples come together. It’s up to you to apply that power to the current situation. Next time you are visiting the homeless with your crew, be very aware, his power is there to lead that conversation. When you pray for that sick residence mate, look out for God’s supernatural hand. Let the power of Christ move you to minister as you gather with the body, all for the glory of God.
As I meditate on our daily reading in Acts 14, verse 25 speaks volume to me. This is where the disciples gather around Paul’s body, and after some indeterminate amount of time Paul astonishingly gets up, and returns to the city with the believers. In analyzing this verse three words are key, disciples, gather and up.
The disciples represented a group of people who were followers of Christ. They have abandoned worldly aspirations, turned their back to cultural dictates, forsaken personal dreams, and have latched on to Jesus Christ for fulfillment and meaning.
Their gathering represents their potency. In multiple places throughout acts we see several instances of what happens when disciples gather. In Acts 2 gathered in a room, the supernatural power of God invades their fellowship, and people speak in tongues. In Acts 4, after being persecuted by the Sanhedrin, Peter and John gather with the disciples, and upon praying the place was physically shaken. Elsewhere in Acts, Peter is led out of Jail by an angel, while the disciples are gathered in a home praying. Gathering together of God’s people ultimately results in a powerful display of the supernatural. That is the message that Acts leaves us with.
The final word is up. Paul we are told got up. Due to the gathering of the disciples around him, Paul got up. This speaks of encouragement. We are not told the intricacies of this miracle. All we know is Paul was presumed dead and deserted by his persecutors. This means he would have been hideously wounded, up to the point where he looked dead. Thus, for him to even get up and walk away with the disciples would have been a miracle. As I reflect on this event, I wonder if maybe God supernaturally healed Paul as the disciples prayed. Or maybe the disciples lovingly massaged his body back to life. They could have even been with him for hours waiting for signs of life, and then once he revived they helped him as he got up, and walked to the city. The point here is it was all miraculous and this would have never happened without the fellowship of the disciples.
What do you do in your gathering? Whether you go out to minister as a group, or just collectively fellowship in a coffee shop is immaterial. What happens at your group times? Understand that God’s power is literally present each time his disciples come together. It’s up to you to apply that power to the current situation. Next time you are visiting the homeless with your crew, be very aware, his power is there to lead that conversation. When you pray for that sick residence mate, look out for God’s supernatural hand. Let the power of Christ move you to minister as you gather with the body, all for the glory of God.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Going deeper in God
Sometimes we say we desire to increase in our experience of God, and we long to go deep yet we are stopped or hindered by many factors. One major factor that affects most in experiencing God’s fullness is seen in Acts 10.
Acts 10, our daily reading of the day portrays Cornelius a devout gentile, seeking for more of God. Peter is used as a divine instrument to bring Cornelius and his household into a spirit filled life. Cornelius had requested that Peter would come to visit him in his home and possibly bring the gospel message to him. Peter though willing to be used by God however knew it was against Jewish ritual laws to associate with a gentile. For Peter, the barrier preventing him from experiencing God was his tradition.
Tradition is often very prominent in limiting us from experience God’s power. Peter knew associating with the gentile Cornelius could include visiting his house, eating ungodly food, conversing with unclean people, etc. For him, these acts were forbidden, and his normal inclination would have been not to go at all. Yet God broke through Peter’s mindset via a vision. In this vision God is able to instil a new paradigm, one of inclusiveness in Peter’s psyche. Thus Peter is released to obey God in ministering to the Gentiles and witnessing God’s power at work.
Mindsets, often induced by our culture and traditions are often hard to overcome. For some it might be their church tradition has never experienced God in a certain way. While for others it could be their personality trait tends to be more conservative and thus emotionalism in spirituality is foreign to them. Yet still, others through intellectualism and rationalism legitimize their reasons for not being open to deeper things of the spirit.
Let’s learn from Peter. See how he was challenged by the spirit to deviate from the ways of his fathers. Notice though Peter at first was unwilling, yet through openness, he was persuaded to try a new path. Ask God to give you a new thought, a different vision, let him introduce his paradigms to you, so that you can fully experience God’s best.
Acts 10, our daily reading of the day portrays Cornelius a devout gentile, seeking for more of God. Peter is used as a divine instrument to bring Cornelius and his household into a spirit filled life. Cornelius had requested that Peter would come to visit him in his home and possibly bring the gospel message to him. Peter though willing to be used by God however knew it was against Jewish ritual laws to associate with a gentile. For Peter, the barrier preventing him from experiencing God was his tradition.
Tradition is often very prominent in limiting us from experience God’s power. Peter knew associating with the gentile Cornelius could include visiting his house, eating ungodly food, conversing with unclean people, etc. For him, these acts were forbidden, and his normal inclination would have been not to go at all. Yet God broke through Peter’s mindset via a vision. In this vision God is able to instil a new paradigm, one of inclusiveness in Peter’s psyche. Thus Peter is released to obey God in ministering to the Gentiles and witnessing God’s power at work.
Mindsets, often induced by our culture and traditions are often hard to overcome. For some it might be their church tradition has never experienced God in a certain way. While for others it could be their personality trait tends to be more conservative and thus emotionalism in spirituality is foreign to them. Yet still, others through intellectualism and rationalism legitimize their reasons for not being open to deeper things of the spirit.
Let’s learn from Peter. See how he was challenged by the spirit to deviate from the ways of his fathers. Notice though Peter at first was unwilling, yet through openness, he was persuaded to try a new path. Ask God to give you a new thought, a different vision, let him introduce his paradigms to you, so that you can fully experience God’s best.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Boldness
We could all use a little more boldness to make our witnessing more effective. Our reading over the last couple of days in Acts has stirred me up to seek for more boldness.
Peter and John on the way to the temple were intercepted by a needy 40 year old man who had been crippled for many years. This beggar requested only money, yet due to tremendous boldness, the disciples commanded him to walk in the name of Jesus. And he did! Have you ever wondered what would have happened if that was your or I? Would we have given the man the money he required and walked on? Or would we give him some food, comfort him and then depart when the conversation comes to an uncomfortable lull? Really, think about it. What would you do? I know for me, the first thought would not be to command him to walk. The reason for this would be due to lack of boldness.
Later on, the disciples are accosted by the authority figures who killed Jesus. The political implication of performing such a public miracle could be damaging to the Pharisees. Thus the disciples are put on trial, and in this scene we see more boldness displayed. Peter, who had denied Jesus three times in fear of death, spoke boldly and declared Jesus was the healer and the messiah. What would possess a cowardly disciple to speak boldly in front of murderous political leaders? Boldness. The scriptures show us the source of this boldness in Acts 8 “then Peter filled with the Holy Spirit said to them”. The source of course is the precious Holy Spirit. See the Holy Spirit does not just fill us to give us tongues, ultimately he empowers us with his Spirit so we can be bold witnesses for him.
Finally, the disciples are released, and withdraw to their own company. Again look at the context of their prayer in the latter part of Acts 4. They prayed not for the persecution to stop, or people to like them, instead they prayed for more boldness. Boldness to preach, boldness to live, boldness to act, boldness to be witnesses. Friends I believe this is where we live. Our world today is desperately in need of an answer. They need miracles in many different facets of their lives. But they requre someone filled with the Holy Spirit to boldly give them a message they can receive, believe and adhere to. Join me today as I pray and seek for more boldness.
Peter and John on the way to the temple were intercepted by a needy 40 year old man who had been crippled for many years. This beggar requested only money, yet due to tremendous boldness, the disciples commanded him to walk in the name of Jesus. And he did! Have you ever wondered what would have happened if that was your or I? Would we have given the man the money he required and walked on? Or would we give him some food, comfort him and then depart when the conversation comes to an uncomfortable lull? Really, think about it. What would you do? I know for me, the first thought would not be to command him to walk. The reason for this would be due to lack of boldness.
Later on, the disciples are accosted by the authority figures who killed Jesus. The political implication of performing such a public miracle could be damaging to the Pharisees. Thus the disciples are put on trial, and in this scene we see more boldness displayed. Peter, who had denied Jesus three times in fear of death, spoke boldly and declared Jesus was the healer and the messiah. What would possess a cowardly disciple to speak boldly in front of murderous political leaders? Boldness. The scriptures show us the source of this boldness in Acts 8 “then Peter filled with the Holy Spirit said to them”. The source of course is the precious Holy Spirit. See the Holy Spirit does not just fill us to give us tongues, ultimately he empowers us with his Spirit so we can be bold witnesses for him.
Finally, the disciples are released, and withdraw to their own company. Again look at the context of their prayer in the latter part of Acts 4. They prayed not for the persecution to stop, or people to like them, instead they prayed for more boldness. Boldness to preach, boldness to live, boldness to act, boldness to be witnesses. Friends I believe this is where we live. Our world today is desperately in need of an answer. They need miracles in many different facets of their lives. But they requre someone filled with the Holy Spirit to boldly give them a message they can receive, believe and adhere to. Join me today as I pray and seek for more boldness.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The bitterness of rebellion
Have you ever felt like leadership was heading in the right direction? Do you ever get frustrated at the apparent immobility of the engines of hierarchical institutions? Wouldn’t it be great if Pastors and were more selfless and led more like Christ would?
I have often had these questions. And as I read the daily reading of today (Numbers 19-20), I find that I am not alone. In fact these questions are founded in antiquity and surface in the narratives of the wilderness wanderings of the people of God.
Can you imagine following a leader who is outdated? Moses was such a leader. He had lived half his life in a different land and a foreign culture (Midian) than the Israelites. He was old, and was dogmatic about his convictions. Over three million people had to follow such a leader for fourty years. Thus understandably these Israelites had complaints pertaining to Moses’ leadership, I probably would too, wouldn’t you? However, God had a different perspective. In Numbers 16, He challenges the people for their disobedience, and equated their complaint to Moses as rebellion against Himself. Due to this rebellion many died from divine judgement.
For those of us leaders, unfortunately, rebellion also seems easy to succumb to. Granted the Israelites perpetual complaints frustrated Moses in Numbers 20. God told Moses to provide them their much sought after water by speaking to the rock. Moses however in frustration at the people neglected to decree God’s word to the rock. Instead he strikes it with his rod to induce the miraculous flow of water. Due to this disobedience, Moses is judged guilty by God and forfeits the right to ever enter the promised land in his lifetime. As I survey this from a leader’s perspective, I must confess that I am bewildered. Why would God fault Moses for striking the rock? Afterwards at other times, Moses had been instructed to use his rod to perform miracles. Couldn’t Moses exercise initiative and do things his own way? Why is God so “micro”? As I meditate on these thoughts, I become convinced that God’s ways are not our way. Thus, we just need to reverently submit and follow him. Moses’ ultimate indictment was that he was found rebellious. Interestingly enough, this was the very thing that he faulted the Israelites for.
May we as followers submit to Godly leadership and in humility follow our Paul’s as they follow Christ. And may leaders in the kingdom be found even more humble, and demonstrate radical-immediate obedience to the utterances of a holy God.
I have often had these questions. And as I read the daily reading of today (Numbers 19-20), I find that I am not alone. In fact these questions are founded in antiquity and surface in the narratives of the wilderness wanderings of the people of God.
Can you imagine following a leader who is outdated? Moses was such a leader. He had lived half his life in a different land and a foreign culture (Midian) than the Israelites. He was old, and was dogmatic about his convictions. Over three million people had to follow such a leader for fourty years. Thus understandably these Israelites had complaints pertaining to Moses’ leadership, I probably would too, wouldn’t you? However, God had a different perspective. In Numbers 16, He challenges the people for their disobedience, and equated their complaint to Moses as rebellion against Himself. Due to this rebellion many died from divine judgement.
For those of us leaders, unfortunately, rebellion also seems easy to succumb to. Granted the Israelites perpetual complaints frustrated Moses in Numbers 20. God told Moses to provide them their much sought after water by speaking to the rock. Moses however in frustration at the people neglected to decree God’s word to the rock. Instead he strikes it with his rod to induce the miraculous flow of water. Due to this disobedience, Moses is judged guilty by God and forfeits the right to ever enter the promised land in his lifetime. As I survey this from a leader’s perspective, I must confess that I am bewildered. Why would God fault Moses for striking the rock? Afterwards at other times, Moses had been instructed to use his rod to perform miracles. Couldn’t Moses exercise initiative and do things his own way? Why is God so “micro”? As I meditate on these thoughts, I become convinced that God’s ways are not our way. Thus, we just need to reverently submit and follow him. Moses’ ultimate indictment was that he was found rebellious. Interestingly enough, this was the very thing that he faulted the Israelites for.
May we as followers submit to Godly leadership and in humility follow our Paul’s as they follow Christ. And may leaders in the kingdom be found even more humble, and demonstrate radical-immediate obedience to the utterances of a holy God.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
When your world gets shaken.
The tabernacle was the centre of the Jewish community in ancient Israel. It was here that God disseminated his blessing for the community. All of life was orchestrated around the rhythm of the tabernacle (which later became the temple). Whether it was festivals, daily sacrifices, Sabbath worship, or community events, the tabernacle or the temple was one of the most significant emblems of Jewish identity.
Two of our readings today both concentrate on the tabernacle-temple, yet from opposite sides. Numbers 18 is contextualized in the period of Jewish history where the tabernacle was indeed the centre of the Jewish community. God regulates the worship, care, and protocol pertaining to the tabernacle. Of such import is the tabernacle, that sentence of death is issued to those who would misappropriate the tabernacle of God.
The evolution of the tabernacle results ultimately in the building of the temple by Solomon in 1 Kings. This temple though a fixed structure still bore the same significance for the Jewish people.
Our second reading in Psalms depicts what happens when a nation loses their identity. The context of Psalm 74 is the demise of Jerusalem, particularly the destruction of Solomon’s temple by the Babylonian empire.
No longer would Israel have the divine dwelling among them. Worship of Yahweh would cease, as the Israelites were carried far away into strange lands. The feasts, holy days, and religious pomp such a key part of their lives for centuries was abruptly ended. In utter despair, the Psalmist cries out, “why have you rejected us forever oh God?” For them, their world was truly shaken.
Has your world ever crumbled around you? Have things ( even Godly things) that you hold dear become memories of the past? Do you feel God has not been faithful to his promises? Undeniably these were the sentiments of the Jews as they languished in captivity. Yet, the Psalmist offers hope in times of duress. This hope is seen in remembrance of the covenant keeping nature of God. He remembers God keeps his covenants, and challenges the Holy one of Israel to rise up and defend their cause. Such prayers by the Psalmist, along with penitent supplication of a nation in Israel, did ultimately cause the Lord to restore the captive to their beloved city, and a new temple.
Thus, Psalm 74 teaches us that God keeps covenants. Our covenant with Him as New Testament believers of course is rooted in Christ via his blood sacrifice. We are reminded in Hebrews that this covenant is far better than the old. Yes your world may have crumbled, but remember God keeps covenants, and he promises hope, restoring stability to the shaken foundations of your circumstances.
Two of our readings today both concentrate on the tabernacle-temple, yet from opposite sides. Numbers 18 is contextualized in the period of Jewish history where the tabernacle was indeed the centre of the Jewish community. God regulates the worship, care, and protocol pertaining to the tabernacle. Of such import is the tabernacle, that sentence of death is issued to those who would misappropriate the tabernacle of God.
The evolution of the tabernacle results ultimately in the building of the temple by Solomon in 1 Kings. This temple though a fixed structure still bore the same significance for the Jewish people.
Our second reading in Psalms depicts what happens when a nation loses their identity. The context of Psalm 74 is the demise of Jerusalem, particularly the destruction of Solomon’s temple by the Babylonian empire.
No longer would Israel have the divine dwelling among them. Worship of Yahweh would cease, as the Israelites were carried far away into strange lands. The feasts, holy days, and religious pomp such a key part of their lives for centuries was abruptly ended. In utter despair, the Psalmist cries out, “why have you rejected us forever oh God?” For them, their world was truly shaken.
Has your world ever crumbled around you? Have things ( even Godly things) that you hold dear become memories of the past? Do you feel God has not been faithful to his promises? Undeniably these were the sentiments of the Jews as they languished in captivity. Yet, the Psalmist offers hope in times of duress. This hope is seen in remembrance of the covenant keeping nature of God. He remembers God keeps his covenants, and challenges the Holy one of Israel to rise up and defend their cause. Such prayers by the Psalmist, along with penitent supplication of a nation in Israel, did ultimately cause the Lord to restore the captive to their beloved city, and a new temple.
Thus, Psalm 74 teaches us that God keeps covenants. Our covenant with Him as New Testament believers of course is rooted in Christ via his blood sacrifice. We are reminded in Hebrews that this covenant is far better than the old. Yes your world may have crumbled, but remember God keeps covenants, and he promises hope, restoring stability to the shaken foundations of your circumstances.
Monday, November 10, 2008
The majesty of Christ
We have been reading Revelation for the past two weeks, and I haven’t yet written a blog regarding this often misunderstood book.
One clear theme in Revelation is the awesome nature of Christ. Revelation, filled with many images, bizarre symbols and cryptic sequences of numerical events may confuse the interpreter. While one struggles to navigate through Revelation, the definite sense of Christ’s glory must not be lost.
Jesus appears to the apostle John in a way which holds tremendous meaning for the Bible enthusiast. He appears as the son of man, or the ancient of Days already foreseen in the book of Daniel (Daniel 7). His hair is white look wool depicting his antiquity. This of course indicates that Jesus is the historic creator of the world, who is eternal, and forever existing. The vision further describes Jesus eyes to be burning like fire. This speaks of God’s consuming fire of holiness, full of purity, yet powerful enough to consume iniquity. The fiery eyes are typical of the angelic vision Daniel had. (Daniel 10:6). As the Lord speaks, John hears the sound of many waters, indicating the awesome authority his voice commands. This reminds us of Ezekiel’s vision in Ezekiel 1:28. Other stirring visual details are given, such as the bronze feet, the pure white linen robe, the golden lampstands and the sunshine glistening face.
As I write these words, I am immensely overwhelmed at the picture of God these images conjure in my mind. John was awestruck as the majesty of Christ was revealed to him. His only response was to fall down as one dead in deep reverence of the awesome Christ. Careful study of the Old Testament manifestations of the presence of God causes one to truly appreciate John’s vision of Christ. While these images are overpowering, one could only imagine what it would have been like to actually see Christ.
Would you like to see Christ? I mean really have a vision of him? I know I would. Well why don’t you start with Hebrews 12:14, where we are told that living holy lives is prerequisite to seeing God. Holiness is rooted in an acute awareness of the majesty of God. Study out these details of Christ, and get an understanding of how grand and majestic he really is. Let this consciousness drive you to an increased desire to be more like God. As you do, you will naturally become more holy, and sin will become more and more distasteful to you. Maybe you won’t have a literal vision, but I guarantee you that as you seriously consider these things, and put them into practice God will be more real to you than ever before, and you will truly experience the rich presence of the majestic Christ.
One clear theme in Revelation is the awesome nature of Christ. Revelation, filled with many images, bizarre symbols and cryptic sequences of numerical events may confuse the interpreter. While one struggles to navigate through Revelation, the definite sense of Christ’s glory must not be lost.
Jesus appears to the apostle John in a way which holds tremendous meaning for the Bible enthusiast. He appears as the son of man, or the ancient of Days already foreseen in the book of Daniel (Daniel 7). His hair is white look wool depicting his antiquity. This of course indicates that Jesus is the historic creator of the world, who is eternal, and forever existing. The vision further describes Jesus eyes to be burning like fire. This speaks of God’s consuming fire of holiness, full of purity, yet powerful enough to consume iniquity. The fiery eyes are typical of the angelic vision Daniel had. (Daniel 10:6). As the Lord speaks, John hears the sound of many waters, indicating the awesome authority his voice commands. This reminds us of Ezekiel’s vision in Ezekiel 1:28. Other stirring visual details are given, such as the bronze feet, the pure white linen robe, the golden lampstands and the sunshine glistening face.
As I write these words, I am immensely overwhelmed at the picture of God these images conjure in my mind. John was awestruck as the majesty of Christ was revealed to him. His only response was to fall down as one dead in deep reverence of the awesome Christ. Careful study of the Old Testament manifestations of the presence of God causes one to truly appreciate John’s vision of Christ. While these images are overpowering, one could only imagine what it would have been like to actually see Christ.
Would you like to see Christ? I mean really have a vision of him? I know I would. Well why don’t you start with Hebrews 12:14, where we are told that living holy lives is prerequisite to seeing God. Holiness is rooted in an acute awareness of the majesty of God. Study out these details of Christ, and get an understanding of how grand and majestic he really is. Let this consciousness drive you to an increased desire to be more like God. As you do, you will naturally become more holy, and sin will become more and more distasteful to you. Maybe you won’t have a literal vision, but I guarantee you that as you seriously consider these things, and put them into practice God will be more real to you than ever before, and you will truly experience the rich presence of the majestic Christ.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Order in Numbers
The reading of today (Numbers 2) depicts a systematic ordering of the placement of each tribe of Israel in respect to the tabernacle. At the command of the Lord, the positioning of each tribe is mapped out. In this mapping scheme, the Tabernacle (or Tent of meeting) is featured in the centre of the Israelite camp, indicating God’s central presence and importance in the affairs of the Israelites. Immediately surrounding the tabernacle (on all sides) is the tribe of Levi, which include the Priests. Finally all the 12 tribes are positioned (in clusters of 3) beyond the Levites and Priests in order of importance, beginning with Judah at the east side of the Tabernacle (see www.youthrevolution.ca/Bible Reading/IsraeliteCampingChart.jpg).
A few observations are necessitated by this intricate ordering of the tribes. Firstly, the holiest tribe is placed next to the tabernacle. And within that tribe, the holiest clan, the priests are positioned at the entrance to the tabernacle on the east side. As you may remember, the Levites showed themselves loyal by not worshipping idols at Mt. Sinai, and thus the Lord promised they would be set apart (Exodus 32). Secondly, the priests are placed at the east end of the tabernacle. This position, being the entrance to the tabernacle courtyard would have been very important, as the priests could determine who was allowed into the tabernacle to offer sacrifices to God. Finally the ordering of the tribes was also important. Judah being the most important tribe, in that Jesus and David were from Judah had the privilege of being positioned next to the priests.
This order ruled their lives as they journeyed in the desert for the next 39 years. Whenever the cloud lifted off the tabernacle, the journey continued. The Israelites would retain the same positioning with respect to the tabernacle as they travelled for days on end. When the cloud by day (or fire by night) stopped, the tribes would set up camp, maintaining the order that God prescribed. Thus they were efficient, maintained uniformity and operated as a fluid mechanism towards their divinely appointed destiny: Canaan.
What is one to make of all these details? Essentially the point is that we need to trust the sovereignty of God, and value our position in life before we can achieve our own destiny. In 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4, God makes it clear that he gives gifts to those he chooses, simply because of divine will and for his sometimes unknown purpose. Thus God knows where he wants us to be positioned in life, and he prepares us and equips us accordingly with temperaments, personalities and gifting needed to fulfill our divinely appointed purpose. Since God knows the master plan, our job is trust his divine ordering. When we compare ourselves to others, envy positions and gifts, or put undue guilt and pressure on ourselves, we move out of God’s order, and we are in danger of being out of order. Have you ever tried to use a bank machine and the sign said out of order, or worse still a washroom in times of emergency? How frustrating!!! Similarly when we don’t value where God puts us and we function out of our own inner desires we end up being frustrated, and find ourselves out of order, unable to be of true help to those around us.
A few observations are necessitated by this intricate ordering of the tribes. Firstly, the holiest tribe is placed next to the tabernacle. And within that tribe, the holiest clan, the priests are positioned at the entrance to the tabernacle on the east side. As you may remember, the Levites showed themselves loyal by not worshipping idols at Mt. Sinai, and thus the Lord promised they would be set apart (Exodus 32). Secondly, the priests are placed at the east end of the tabernacle. This position, being the entrance to the tabernacle courtyard would have been very important, as the priests could determine who was allowed into the tabernacle to offer sacrifices to God. Finally the ordering of the tribes was also important. Judah being the most important tribe, in that Jesus and David were from Judah had the privilege of being positioned next to the priests.
This order ruled their lives as they journeyed in the desert for the next 39 years. Whenever the cloud lifted off the tabernacle, the journey continued. The Israelites would retain the same positioning with respect to the tabernacle as they travelled for days on end. When the cloud by day (or fire by night) stopped, the tribes would set up camp, maintaining the order that God prescribed. Thus they were efficient, maintained uniformity and operated as a fluid mechanism towards their divinely appointed destiny: Canaan.
What is one to make of all these details? Essentially the point is that we need to trust the sovereignty of God, and value our position in life before we can achieve our own destiny. In 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4, God makes it clear that he gives gifts to those he chooses, simply because of divine will and for his sometimes unknown purpose. Thus God knows where he wants us to be positioned in life, and he prepares us and equips us accordingly with temperaments, personalities and gifting needed to fulfill our divinely appointed purpose. Since God knows the master plan, our job is trust his divine ordering. When we compare ourselves to others, envy positions and gifts, or put undue guilt and pressure on ourselves, we move out of God’s order, and we are in danger of being out of order. Have you ever tried to use a bank machine and the sign said out of order, or worse still a washroom in times of emergency? How frustrating!!! Similarly when we don’t value where God puts us and we function out of our own inner desires we end up being frustrated, and find ourselves out of order, unable to be of true help to those around us.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
The faith of the Law
Faith and Law are almost oxymoronic and for the most part are not used in the same context in the Bible. Yet as we examine the sacrificial instructions to combat sin in the early chapters of Leviticus we notice how the law requires individuals to have faith beyond simple legalism.
There were different sacrifices required for different types of sin. If one sinned intentionally then a ram was expected, otherwise a female goat or a lamb. Further the type of sacrificial object was also dependent on the financial status of the individual. The poorer ones could bring a dove instead of livestock, while the poorest of the poor were only required to use flour for their offering.
These are only a few of the many intricate details we notice in the sacrificial instructions.
Despite all these instructions of the law, it was up to the individual to respond through faith. Atoning for sin was a costly process. Thus an individual really had to believe in God’s forgiveness via the sacrificing before doling out money for a creature. Further, due to the proactive onus on the giver to initiate the sacrifice, one could easily pretend they were sinless and offer no sacrifices, and everyone would be none the wiser. Similarly, the individual could choose to offer a sacrifice that was beneath their financial means pretending they could only afford such an item. Yet faith in God’s sacrificial provision caused the individual to confess sin each time and bring the appropriate object needed to atone for their sins.
As David intuitively realized, God does not delight in sacrifices. He looks at the heart. As individuals came to God with a pure heart of faith and chose to be honest in offering the right sacrifices, God’s legal process of the law was able to atone for their sins. Thus faith in the law offered benefits for Old Testament adherents, and teaches us New Testament believers to have faith in the new law: Grace in Christ.
There were different sacrifices required for different types of sin. If one sinned intentionally then a ram was expected, otherwise a female goat or a lamb. Further the type of sacrificial object was also dependent on the financial status of the individual. The poorer ones could bring a dove instead of livestock, while the poorest of the poor were only required to use flour for their offering.
These are only a few of the many intricate details we notice in the sacrificial instructions.
Despite all these instructions of the law, it was up to the individual to respond through faith. Atoning for sin was a costly process. Thus an individual really had to believe in God’s forgiveness via the sacrificing before doling out money for a creature. Further, due to the proactive onus on the giver to initiate the sacrifice, one could easily pretend they were sinless and offer no sacrifices, and everyone would be none the wiser. Similarly, the individual could choose to offer a sacrifice that was beneath their financial means pretending they could only afford such an item. Yet faith in God’s sacrificial provision caused the individual to confess sin each time and bring the appropriate object needed to atone for their sins.
As David intuitively realized, God does not delight in sacrifices. He looks at the heart. As individuals came to God with a pure heart of faith and chose to be honest in offering the right sacrifices, God’s legal process of the law was able to atone for their sins. Thus faith in the law offered benefits for Old Testament adherents, and teaches us New Testament believers to have faith in the new law: Grace in Christ.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Awesome Regulations
Exodus 20-31 contains information about the mosaic covenant. Here we see God meeting with Moses and the elders. Further God gives commandments from heaven to his people via Moses. Then God gives details as to the tabernacle, priesthood and worship protocol.
As one reads these details they seem very numerous, mundane and irrelevant. What spiritual meaning could we ascribe to the 7 day purification process of the priests? Why would God require so much blood offering and animal sacrifices in officiating worship? What is the purpose for the priestly garments and why is there such an emphasis on appropriate color scheme, skilled and dedicated workmanship, and the anointing and reservation of these garments?
The only answer that comes to mind as I reflect on these details is “awe”. Our God is an awesome God. To approach him, and serve him requires much...in fact, requires all.
The prescription for temple worship and priesthood sanctification serves as a monumental object lesson for us westerners so far removed from the Ancient Near East (ANE) culture. We might question the blood sacrifices, which by the way was abundant. 7 bulls, 14 lambs and 2 rams were required in Exodus 29 to consecrate the priests and altar. Blood was placed on the bodies of the priests, and also sprinkled on their clothing as well as the altar. Why so much gore? Why so much apparent barbaric ritualism in the Bible.
These questions can all be summarized with one answer – awe. Blood represented life in the Bible and the ANE. To approach God was so awesome that it was deathly costly. One’s life represented by blood was thus a justifiable means for approaching God. The priests in administering temple worship stood for God, and had access to his divine power. However the humanity of the priests would inherently disqualify them from this role. Thus God’s introduction of the blood sacrifices allowed their sins to be atoned for, making them righteous enough to fulfill their divine mandate.
The awe of God is seen in these passages and throughout the entire Old Testament. While we cannot discuss all its intricacies here, suffice enough is that regulations were required to guarantee God’s power would be available for humanity. The priest in reverence for God’s awe underwent the cumbersome procedure of personal sanctification, temple consecration and procedural propriety. These forerunners of the faith via their deep reverence for God serve as a clear model for us believers today. Let us be awe inspired at the concept of God. Be reverently fearful when you worship him, knowing God is all too powerful, and only by his divine Grace and the blood of Christ are we allowed to worship Him. Let the awesome nature of God drive sin from your thought and active life. Be regulated, not by the law of works, but by the law of Grace. Adhere to restrictions in your social life, personal life, entertainment life and relationships because of the awe of God.
Let your regulated life lead you to experience more of the awesome God.
As one reads these details they seem very numerous, mundane and irrelevant. What spiritual meaning could we ascribe to the 7 day purification process of the priests? Why would God require so much blood offering and animal sacrifices in officiating worship? What is the purpose for the priestly garments and why is there such an emphasis on appropriate color scheme, skilled and dedicated workmanship, and the anointing and reservation of these garments?
The only answer that comes to mind as I reflect on these details is “awe”. Our God is an awesome God. To approach him, and serve him requires much...in fact, requires all.
The prescription for temple worship and priesthood sanctification serves as a monumental object lesson for us westerners so far removed from the Ancient Near East (ANE) culture. We might question the blood sacrifices, which by the way was abundant. 7 bulls, 14 lambs and 2 rams were required in Exodus 29 to consecrate the priests and altar. Blood was placed on the bodies of the priests, and also sprinkled on their clothing as well as the altar. Why so much gore? Why so much apparent barbaric ritualism in the Bible.
These questions can all be summarized with one answer – awe. Blood represented life in the Bible and the ANE. To approach God was so awesome that it was deathly costly. One’s life represented by blood was thus a justifiable means for approaching God. The priests in administering temple worship stood for God, and had access to his divine power. However the humanity of the priests would inherently disqualify them from this role. Thus God’s introduction of the blood sacrifices allowed their sins to be atoned for, making them righteous enough to fulfill their divine mandate.
The awe of God is seen in these passages and throughout the entire Old Testament. While we cannot discuss all its intricacies here, suffice enough is that regulations were required to guarantee God’s power would be available for humanity. The priest in reverence for God’s awe underwent the cumbersome procedure of personal sanctification, temple consecration and procedural propriety. These forerunners of the faith via their deep reverence for God serve as a clear model for us believers today. Let us be awe inspired at the concept of God. Be reverently fearful when you worship him, knowing God is all too powerful, and only by his divine Grace and the blood of Christ are we allowed to worship Him. Let the awesome nature of God drive sin from your thought and active life. Be regulated, not by the law of works, but by the law of Grace. Adhere to restrictions in your social life, personal life, entertainment life and relationships because of the awe of God.
Let your regulated life lead you to experience more of the awesome God.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Productivity
Our reading of today literally forces me to stop and take stock of my efforts for the kingdom.
Moses and the elders, including Joshua approach the presence of God on Mount Sinai. God further beckons only Moses to come even nearer, while Joshua his aide accompanies him. 7 days of exclusive consecration and isolation ensues. Finally God speaks to Moses and begins to give him a detailed blueprint of the tabernacle.
My blurb today can be themed Presence before Production.
God never calls us to be productive. He calls us to know him. John 15 encapsulates this message very powerfully in the New Testament. Paradoxically, while God calls us to be fruitful, yet he calls us to be still and know his presence (Psalms 46:10).
The disciples approached Jesus with deep piety and wondered what the greatest activity one could take on for the cause. They must have been utterly dumbfounded by his simple answer: “To know him” (John 6:28-29).
As Moses and the elders sought God’s presence simply for the sake of God’s presence, nothing concealed, without agenda, releasing the terms of the relationship solely to God, then God surprises them with a crisp clear vision of the tabernacle.
While we do not seek God for things, ministry, or anything else, the biblically inevitable result of such activity is productivity.
My journey as one who is task oriented is constantly to base all I do in seeking the presence of God. As I seek Him first daily, I allow him to put promptings in my heart of clear and often detailed activity that He would like me to accomplish. When stresses, time constraints, self-imposed goals and objectives try to steal you and I away from God’s presence, may the nagging sense of emptiness continually drive us to forsake self and seek his presence. For in his presence we find purpose, and ultimately true productivity.
Moses and the elders, including Joshua approach the presence of God on Mount Sinai. God further beckons only Moses to come even nearer, while Joshua his aide accompanies him. 7 days of exclusive consecration and isolation ensues. Finally God speaks to Moses and begins to give him a detailed blueprint of the tabernacle.
My blurb today can be themed Presence before Production.
God never calls us to be productive. He calls us to know him. John 15 encapsulates this message very powerfully in the New Testament. Paradoxically, while God calls us to be fruitful, yet he calls us to be still and know his presence (Psalms 46:10).
The disciples approached Jesus with deep piety and wondered what the greatest activity one could take on for the cause. They must have been utterly dumbfounded by his simple answer: “To know him” (John 6:28-29).
As Moses and the elders sought God’s presence simply for the sake of God’s presence, nothing concealed, without agenda, releasing the terms of the relationship solely to God, then God surprises them with a crisp clear vision of the tabernacle.
While we do not seek God for things, ministry, or anything else, the biblically inevitable result of such activity is productivity.
My journey as one who is task oriented is constantly to base all I do in seeking the presence of God. As I seek Him first daily, I allow him to put promptings in my heart of clear and often detailed activity that He would like me to accomplish. When stresses, time constraints, self-imposed goals and objectives try to steal you and I away from God’s presence, may the nagging sense of emptiness continually drive us to forsake self and seek his presence. For in his presence we find purpose, and ultimately true productivity.
Friday, October 10, 2008
The blessing in boundaries
God appears to his people shortly after their exodus from Egypt. He descends upon Mount Sinai, in a very explosive fashion. Lightning, thunder, thick cloud and dense smoke are some of the natural phenomenon that accomplished this divine visitation.
Moses indicated to the people that there were to be specific boundaries placed prior to this divine visitation. A fence had to be put around the base of the mountain to enforce all would keep a certain distance from God’s presence. Further, the people were to prepare themselves by purification washings and sexual abstinence. Essentially all these instructions depicted the boundaries that God required the people to observe.
These boundaries ensured that God could properly reveal himself to his people. In our lives today, God expects us also to observe certain boundaries and limits. We are called to live holy lives as He says “be holy as I am holy”. We are asked to forgo certain friends, and desist from practices that have no spiritual value.
In the wake of the consecration of the nation of Israel, Moses was able to deliver God’s words to the people. Words that would add value bring life and ensure God’s covenant blessings were made known to the people.
Would you like to have a richer experience with God? Do you desire to hear his voice more clearly? Are you interested in seeing God moving supernaturally in your life? Then consider the boundaries you have in your life. Are there any that prevent you from sinning? Do you have ones that keep you accountable to godly peers and mentors? Where does spiritual discipline, Bible reading and prayer fit in your life?
Value these boundaries, and seek to place them appropriately in your life so you can receive God’s never ending blessings.
Moses indicated to the people that there were to be specific boundaries placed prior to this divine visitation. A fence had to be put around the base of the mountain to enforce all would keep a certain distance from God’s presence. Further, the people were to prepare themselves by purification washings and sexual abstinence. Essentially all these instructions depicted the boundaries that God required the people to observe.
These boundaries ensured that God could properly reveal himself to his people. In our lives today, God expects us also to observe certain boundaries and limits. We are called to live holy lives as He says “be holy as I am holy”. We are asked to forgo certain friends, and desist from practices that have no spiritual value.
In the wake of the consecration of the nation of Israel, Moses was able to deliver God’s words to the people. Words that would add value bring life and ensure God’s covenant blessings were made known to the people.
Would you like to have a richer experience with God? Do you desire to hear his voice more clearly? Are you interested in seeing God moving supernaturally in your life? Then consider the boundaries you have in your life. Are there any that prevent you from sinning? Do you have ones that keep you accountable to godly peers and mentors? Where does spiritual discipline, Bible reading and prayer fit in your life?
Value these boundaries, and seek to place them appropriately in your life so you can receive God’s never ending blessings.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Provision
Israel’s escape from Egypt while embraced whole heartedly by the Israeli’s came with unforeseen difficulties. As they traveled through the desert they discovered firstly that there was no water supply, and secondly no food provision.
Throughout this experience the Israelites complained about their lack of sustenance. God miraculously provides water for them in a variety of ways, and also cause both bread and meat to come down from heaven. Genesis 16:34 indicates that they ate manna from heaven for fourty years. While one might think it preposterous to eat the same thing for fourty years, this sustained provision holds a powerful insight for us.
God’s divine provision is able to sustain you and I through the good and the hard times. Moses had to cry out to God before God provided the necessary provision. You may be lacking provision either for yourself or for those you care about. God wants to be that stable source of provision. Fourty years, the Israelites did not have to worry about food or drink, God freely gave.
For fourty years, God was consistent. For four decades he continued to give, day in, day out. For an entire generation, God’s goodness never ceased to be displayed as He physically sustained the children of Israel.
Be persuaded today that provision comes from God. Access that provision through crying out to God. 2 Corinthians 8 reveals God’s intent for provision. As you receive, also give. Thus once you have received provision, freely give. As you do God’s provision will effect not just you, but those around you just as the manna did in the time of Moses.
Throughout this experience the Israelites complained about their lack of sustenance. God miraculously provides water for them in a variety of ways, and also cause both bread and meat to come down from heaven. Genesis 16:34 indicates that they ate manna from heaven for fourty years. While one might think it preposterous to eat the same thing for fourty years, this sustained provision holds a powerful insight for us.
God’s divine provision is able to sustain you and I through the good and the hard times. Moses had to cry out to God before God provided the necessary provision. You may be lacking provision either for yourself or for those you care about. God wants to be that stable source of provision. Fourty years, the Israelites did not have to worry about food or drink, God freely gave.
For fourty years, God was consistent. For four decades he continued to give, day in, day out. For an entire generation, God’s goodness never ceased to be displayed as He physically sustained the children of Israel.
Be persuaded today that provision comes from God. Access that provision through crying out to God. 2 Corinthians 8 reveals God’s intent for provision. As you receive, also give. Thus once you have received provision, freely give. As you do God’s provision will effect not just you, but those around you just as the manna did in the time of Moses.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Spirit Led
"Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today"
Moses
In today’s reading we read of the deliverance of Israel from the armies of Egypt. A few points are worthy of note.
God had requested Moses (in Exodus 13) to lead the Israelites into the desert, even though there was a shorter way via the Philistine region. This made no sense in the natural. Travelling into the desert would mean suicide. 3 million people travelling, along with lack of food and water in the desert could be very problematic.
Yet Moses obeyed, simply because he trusted the leading of the Lord. Pharaoh took the bait, knowing God’s people were hemmed in by both the sea and desert he decided to attack them. As the people realized the impending nature of Pharaoh’s attack they were distraught. Yet Moses’ assuring words “stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today” began to indicate the secret behind Moses’ leadership.
Have you ever been hemmed in? Do you feel like you are sometimes between a rock and a hard place? How do you decide when there is a fork in the road, and both forks are impossible to consider?
The leading of the spirit is Moses’ answer. Though it totally made no sense in the natural he plodded on blindly leading God’s people to wandering in the desert, facing a sea and facing sure death. But as Moses faced Pharoah and sea, he heard from the spirit. Hearing from the spirit is so freeing. Romans 8 says those who are led by the spirit are sons of God. Galatians 3 teaches us about the freeing blessing of being spirit led. As Moses heard the voice of God in the 11th hour, he knew what to do. Impending freedom would be had.
God’s timing though not necessarily ours is always impeccable. God then instructs Moses to raise up his staff towards the sea. I can only imagine what was going through Moses mind. Will this really happen? Will we drown? Will Pharaoh catch up with us? Listen to me friend! Questions don’t matter. You will always….always….always have questions when it comes to the things of God. But as long as you listen to the spirit and obey, God can move in your life.
Moses raised up his staff, and God’s divine power separated the water into two. Moses and the Israelites proceeded into the sea, and were ultimately delivered while their enemies were drowned.
My word to you today is stand firm. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the Lord. I know things may be hard, confusing, and even desperate. But lean on the spirit. Watch out for God’s leading. It may not be a physical pillar of fire by cloud or fire by night, but he does and will lead you. It might be a still small voice. It could be a confirmatory voice from a trusted friend. It could just be plain commonsense to move ahead. But whatever it is, ensure you have peace, and see the freeing move of the spirit in your life, STAND FIRM.
Moses
In today’s reading we read of the deliverance of Israel from the armies of Egypt. A few points are worthy of note.
God had requested Moses (in Exodus 13) to lead the Israelites into the desert, even though there was a shorter way via the Philistine region. This made no sense in the natural. Travelling into the desert would mean suicide. 3 million people travelling, along with lack of food and water in the desert could be very problematic.
Yet Moses obeyed, simply because he trusted the leading of the Lord. Pharaoh took the bait, knowing God’s people were hemmed in by both the sea and desert he decided to attack them. As the people realized the impending nature of Pharaoh’s attack they were distraught. Yet Moses’ assuring words “stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today” began to indicate the secret behind Moses’ leadership.
Have you ever been hemmed in? Do you feel like you are sometimes between a rock and a hard place? How do you decide when there is a fork in the road, and both forks are impossible to consider?
The leading of the spirit is Moses’ answer. Though it totally made no sense in the natural he plodded on blindly leading God’s people to wandering in the desert, facing a sea and facing sure death. But as Moses faced Pharoah and sea, he heard from the spirit. Hearing from the spirit is so freeing. Romans 8 says those who are led by the spirit are sons of God. Galatians 3 teaches us about the freeing blessing of being spirit led. As Moses heard the voice of God in the 11th hour, he knew what to do. Impending freedom would be had.
God’s timing though not necessarily ours is always impeccable. God then instructs Moses to raise up his staff towards the sea. I can only imagine what was going through Moses mind. Will this really happen? Will we drown? Will Pharaoh catch up with us? Listen to me friend! Questions don’t matter. You will always….always….always have questions when it comes to the things of God. But as long as you listen to the spirit and obey, God can move in your life.
Moses raised up his staff, and God’s divine power separated the water into two. Moses and the Israelites proceeded into the sea, and were ultimately delivered while their enemies were drowned.
My word to you today is stand firm. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the Lord. I know things may be hard, confusing, and even desperate. But lean on the spirit. Watch out for God’s leading. It may not be a physical pillar of fire by cloud or fire by night, but he does and will lead you. It might be a still small voice. It could be a confirmatory voice from a trusted friend. It could just be plain commonsense to move ahead. But whatever it is, ensure you have peace, and see the freeing move of the spirit in your life, STAND FIRM.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
The Timothys are here!!!
We have been reading the book of Timothy over the past few days. As I meditate on the ministry and instruction in this book I stop to ponder over a few things.
Are there Timothys still today? Do we have Pauls around us still? And my third question is personal, which one of these two do I want to be like.
I believe Timothy’s today are around, but they are few in number. Timothy was a disciple of Paul. He was willing to follow Paul in every way. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 4:17 that Timothy is like a son to him, who is dearly loved and most faithful. Faithfulness underscored the life of Timothy. He was willing to travel with Paul any and everywhere, he had no qualms about being a servant and embarking on errand missions for Paul, and most importantly when asked to be circumcised he freely did it. For Timothy, nothing was too difficult to do when it came to following after God. He respected the authority God had placed in his leader Paul, and obeyed him. He followed Paul, as Paul followed after Christ.
In our self-motivated, fast paced, materialistic world, I believe the Paul’s are also rare. This is because to be like Paul, one needs to be selfless, and intentionally reach out to the younger spiritual ones. Disicpling a younger believer is hard work, and many are simply discouraged by the sheer difficulty. It takes a visionary like Paul who having the heart of Christ realizes that to save the world, we need spiritual children. Investing in others benefits the kingdom, as these new believers grow up and take off from where we as their mentors stop.
Personally, I would like to be more like both Paul and Timothy. Timothy teaches me to be more submissive, be a better follower, and intensify my walk with God. Paul helps me to understand that I can’t run this race myself, and that I need believers around me who as I empower them via God’s grace will do immensely more than I can ever hope to achieve.
Are there Timothys still today? Do we have Pauls around us still? And my third question is personal, which one of these two do I want to be like.
I believe Timothy’s today are around, but they are few in number. Timothy was a disciple of Paul. He was willing to follow Paul in every way. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 4:17 that Timothy is like a son to him, who is dearly loved and most faithful. Faithfulness underscored the life of Timothy. He was willing to travel with Paul any and everywhere, he had no qualms about being a servant and embarking on errand missions for Paul, and most importantly when asked to be circumcised he freely did it. For Timothy, nothing was too difficult to do when it came to following after God. He respected the authority God had placed in his leader Paul, and obeyed him. He followed Paul, as Paul followed after Christ.
In our self-motivated, fast paced, materialistic world, I believe the Paul’s are also rare. This is because to be like Paul, one needs to be selfless, and intentionally reach out to the younger spiritual ones. Disicpling a younger believer is hard work, and many are simply discouraged by the sheer difficulty. It takes a visionary like Paul who having the heart of Christ realizes that to save the world, we need spiritual children. Investing in others benefits the kingdom, as these new believers grow up and take off from where we as their mentors stop.
Personally, I would like to be more like both Paul and Timothy. Timothy teaches me to be more submissive, be a better follower, and intensify my walk with God. Paul helps me to understand that I can’t run this race myself, and that I need believers around me who as I empower them via God’s grace will do immensely more than I can ever hope to achieve.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Am I in the place of God?
Cursed is he who trusts in the arm of flesh, Jeremiah lets us know, and further goes on to say blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. As I begin this devotion, are you in the place of God in your life? Or do you let him lead you and guide you?
This question was asked twice in the Bible. It was asked exactly twice by a father and son who we all owe our spiritual heritage to. Both were tested, and both passed. Both had the chance of being in the place of God, but instead they deferred this role to God alone.
Jacob in Genesis 30 was asked to do the natural. Rachel wanted a child and she cried in desperation to Jacob to give her a child. Jacob in utter frustration exclaimed “Am I in the place of God”, and then urges her to seek God and not him. In answering her this way, Jacob acknowledged he was only human. That he and Rachel needed divine enablement to do what she required, for God alone opens closed wombs. Further Jacob urges Rachel to trust in God, and God alone. As the story goes, Rachel failed this test and instead leaned on the arm of flesh by going the route of self. She asked Jacob to impregnate her maid which would have been culturally acceptable at the time. This to Rachel was much easier than waiting for the time of God.
Joseph likewise, asked the same question, when his brothers fearfully sought peace with him. Am I in the place of God he asked? Do I have the power to take your lives out of revenge? Joseph essentially chose the way of the spirit. Instead of taking out his vengeance on his violent brothers, he said only God repays. I will not judge. For I am not in the place of God. Joseph then further re-affirms his commitment to them and embraces them as family.
Are you in the place of God? Do you take the way of flesh to handle situations or the way of the Spirit? Even so called ministerial activities can fall prey to the way of the flesh which inherently is placing ourselves as God. Today forsake the way of the flesh. Choose to be led by the Spirit. Don’t tackle issues, problems or life’s realities just as everyone else would. Put God in his place. Let him be the key factor in every decision you make. Join with me in saying “cursed is the way of the flesh”, and “blessed is the way of the spirit – the way of God”.
This question was asked twice in the Bible. It was asked exactly twice by a father and son who we all owe our spiritual heritage to. Both were tested, and both passed. Both had the chance of being in the place of God, but instead they deferred this role to God alone.
Jacob in Genesis 30 was asked to do the natural. Rachel wanted a child and she cried in desperation to Jacob to give her a child. Jacob in utter frustration exclaimed “Am I in the place of God”, and then urges her to seek God and not him. In answering her this way, Jacob acknowledged he was only human. That he and Rachel needed divine enablement to do what she required, for God alone opens closed wombs. Further Jacob urges Rachel to trust in God, and God alone. As the story goes, Rachel failed this test and instead leaned on the arm of flesh by going the route of self. She asked Jacob to impregnate her maid which would have been culturally acceptable at the time. This to Rachel was much easier than waiting for the time of God.
Joseph likewise, asked the same question, when his brothers fearfully sought peace with him. Am I in the place of God he asked? Do I have the power to take your lives out of revenge? Joseph essentially chose the way of the spirit. Instead of taking out his vengeance on his violent brothers, he said only God repays. I will not judge. For I am not in the place of God. Joseph then further re-affirms his commitment to them and embraces them as family.
Are you in the place of God? Do you take the way of flesh to handle situations or the way of the Spirit? Even so called ministerial activities can fall prey to the way of the flesh which inherently is placing ourselves as God. Today forsake the way of the flesh. Choose to be led by the Spirit. Don’t tackle issues, problems or life’s realities just as everyone else would. Put God in his place. Let him be the key factor in every decision you make. Join with me in saying “cursed is the way of the flesh”, and “blessed is the way of the spirit – the way of God”.
Monday, September 29, 2008
The answer to your suffering...
Psalms 22 is the famous Psalm of sorrow. It depicts the situation of one who has been afflicted with sickness, who faces persecution, who has lost everything. The Psalm portrays this suffering one as very humble and penitent, continually reaching out to God for deliverance despite external circumstances that would indicate God does not care.
This Psalms describes to a degree the sufferings of Jesus. Scholars however are divided as to whether this Psalm is literally talking about Jesus (especially since Jesus quoted from this Psalm when he was on the cross “my God my God why have you forsaken me”), or whether simply Jesus quoted this Psalm as a means of comfort, which would have been typical for a Jewish person to do.
The typical Jew growing up would have memorized this Psalm. It would have portrayed the prayers of any individual who was several traumatized or in deep suffering. The Psalm promised hope in times of desolation, peace in a state of crisis.
Verse 24 encapsulates the point of the Psalm. The psalmist declares
“For he has not despised or disdained the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help”
My friend, I have three questions for you. Are you suffering? Have you cried consistently to God? Did you receive the answer you need?
Are you suffering? Many are crying out to God but are not really suffering. They may think they are suffering, but their hearts are not right. True suffering is found in the spirit of 2 Chronicles 7:14, where one finds themselves humbled by a crisis, repents of their sins, fasts in humility and cries out to God for deliverance.
Some may be crying to God in true suffering, but their cry is short lived. Thus my second question serves to remind you not to give up in your cry.
Finally, have you received your answer? 1 John 5:14 explicitly indicates that if God listens to your prayer you will have your request. Our verse here indicates God will listen if you are truly suffering and consistently crying out to God out of a deep desperation.
As we continue to believe for Souls, take on true suffering. Feel the pains of those who are lost. Understand the anguish that comes with not knowing Christ. Then begin to cry out to God out of a burdened heart, and I believe God will answer your cry.
This Psalms describes to a degree the sufferings of Jesus. Scholars however are divided as to whether this Psalm is literally talking about Jesus (especially since Jesus quoted from this Psalm when he was on the cross “my God my God why have you forsaken me”), or whether simply Jesus quoted this Psalm as a means of comfort, which would have been typical for a Jewish person to do.
The typical Jew growing up would have memorized this Psalm. It would have portrayed the prayers of any individual who was several traumatized or in deep suffering. The Psalm promised hope in times of desolation, peace in a state of crisis.
Verse 24 encapsulates the point of the Psalm. The psalmist declares
“For he has not despised or disdained the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help”
My friend, I have three questions for you. Are you suffering? Have you cried consistently to God? Did you receive the answer you need?
Are you suffering? Many are crying out to God but are not really suffering. They may think they are suffering, but their hearts are not right. True suffering is found in the spirit of 2 Chronicles 7:14, where one finds themselves humbled by a crisis, repents of their sins, fasts in humility and cries out to God for deliverance.
Some may be crying to God in true suffering, but their cry is short lived. Thus my second question serves to remind you not to give up in your cry.
Finally, have you received your answer? 1 John 5:14 explicitly indicates that if God listens to your prayer you will have your request. Our verse here indicates God will listen if you are truly suffering and consistently crying out to God out of a deep desperation.
As we continue to believe for Souls, take on true suffering. Feel the pains of those who are lost. Understand the anguish that comes with not knowing Christ. Then begin to cry out to God out of a burdened heart, and I believe God will answer your cry.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Am I done yet?
Have you ever wondered how long you should pray for people? Many of you have been burdened with praying for the lost. Some of you are also praying for people who have just been lukewarm. Yet the question is the same. When is it enough? When can I leave that person and move on to praying for the next?
Paul inadvertently answers this question in our daily reading of today. Paul although he has not personally discipled the Colossians, feels obligated to write to them. He tells them that he has heard about their faith and love and thus is compelled to write to encourage them. God has placed these Colossians on Paul’s heart. Further, Paul says these words that applies to the issue at hand. Quoting Paul “For this reason since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you....”.
The above words of Paul indicates that we never stop praying for lost souls and those believers God puts on our earts. The Colossians though saved had several issues they were going through. Primarily, they were in danger of falling prey to the very convincing philosophy of their day which called into question the Cosmic majesty and rule of Christ. Thus Paul in a manner characteristic of his commitment to the mission indicates passionately that he will not stop praying.
I therefore like Paul boldy declare that since the day that I have heard about your faith, your love, your struggle, your fears, your doubts, your cares, your victories and losses, have not stopped praying for you. In fact I will not stop praying for you, because you are so dear to my heart.
May the Lord continue to increase the burden in our hearts for one another and for the lost, and may you fulfill the law of the anointing, bearing one another’s burdens.
Paul inadvertently answers this question in our daily reading of today. Paul although he has not personally discipled the Colossians, feels obligated to write to them. He tells them that he has heard about their faith and love and thus is compelled to write to encourage them. God has placed these Colossians on Paul’s heart. Further, Paul says these words that applies to the issue at hand. Quoting Paul “For this reason since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you....”.
The above words of Paul indicates that we never stop praying for lost souls and those believers God puts on our earts. The Colossians though saved had several issues they were going through. Primarily, they were in danger of falling prey to the very convincing philosophy of their day which called into question the Cosmic majesty and rule of Christ. Thus Paul in a manner characteristic of his commitment to the mission indicates passionately that he will not stop praying.
I therefore like Paul boldy declare that since the day that I have heard about your faith, your love, your struggle, your fears, your doubts, your cares, your victories and losses, have not stopped praying for you. In fact I will not stop praying for you, because you are so dear to my heart.
May the Lord continue to increase the burden in our hearts for one another and for the lost, and may you fulfill the law of the anointing, bearing one another’s burdens.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Tempted?
Temptation comes to all of us. For some it comes when we are as close to God, enjoying a new nugget of truth from his word. For others it comes when we are severely weak in the flesh and very susceptible to falling. While for others it comes when things, naturally speaking are going well, with family, job or relationships in general.
For Joseph in our daily reading of today, temptation came to him at one of these “opportune” times. Things were going well for him. He was successful. There was not even an iota of a problem. We might ask why would temptation come to him all of sudden? After all, didn’t God know he was working hard and being faithful, despite the fact that he was a slave? Whatever the reason, temptation did come to him. Unfairly it was at the pinnacle of his prestigious job as a master steward in the house of the Captain of the national guard of the greatest ruler in the world, Pharoah.
Thankfully, Joseph was able to handle his temptation, and deny his flesh. He didn’t let the successes experienced lead to lust for more. He could have easily had his master’s wife, after all he was in charge of the master’s entire estate. Yet he withstood his ground. When finally he couldn’t handle it anymore, as the pressure to sin intensified, he did what amazes us all, he fled. He literally ran away from the arms of his master’s wife. He fled as fast as he could, as far away as he could go. Joseph understood that to sin would not only hurt his master, and not only damage Joseph’s integrity, but ultimately it would severely hamper his relationship with God.
How do you handle temptation? Do you think you are too spiritual to fall? How far do you distance yourself even from the possibility of the minutest of sins. Scripture promises us failure if we act in pride and believe we will never fall (Galatians 6 and 2 Corinthians 10).
My prayer is that you would so fear God, that you will literally run from temptation, and that God’s holiness will envelope you and literally prevent you from falling to temptation.
Peace and Love
For Joseph in our daily reading of today, temptation came to him at one of these “opportune” times. Things were going well for him. He was successful. There was not even an iota of a problem. We might ask why would temptation come to him all of sudden? After all, didn’t God know he was working hard and being faithful, despite the fact that he was a slave? Whatever the reason, temptation did come to him. Unfairly it was at the pinnacle of his prestigious job as a master steward in the house of the Captain of the national guard of the greatest ruler in the world, Pharoah.
Thankfully, Joseph was able to handle his temptation, and deny his flesh. He didn’t let the successes experienced lead to lust for more. He could have easily had his master’s wife, after all he was in charge of the master’s entire estate. Yet he withstood his ground. When finally he couldn’t handle it anymore, as the pressure to sin intensified, he did what amazes us all, he fled. He literally ran away from the arms of his master’s wife. He fled as fast as he could, as far away as he could go. Joseph understood that to sin would not only hurt his master, and not only damage Joseph’s integrity, but ultimately it would severely hamper his relationship with God.
How do you handle temptation? Do you think you are too spiritual to fall? How far do you distance yourself even from the possibility of the minutest of sins. Scripture promises us failure if we act in pride and believe we will never fall (Galatians 6 and 2 Corinthians 10).
My prayer is that you would so fear God, that you will literally run from temptation, and that God’s holiness will envelope you and literally prevent you from falling to temptation.
Peace and Love
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Prison
One thing I did not mention in my background summary of Ephesians (http://www.youthrevolution.ca/Bible%20Reading/backgroundseptember.pdf) is that Paul wrote this book from prison. In Ephesians 3:1 Paul indicates his present status as a prisoner. However one can easily gloss over this part to get to the essential point of his teachings. Yet the fact that he is a prisoner is just as important as his message.
See Paul was called to suffer for Christ. When God appeared to him on the Damascus road encounter (Acts 9), God prophesied to Paul that he would suffer greatly for the cause of the Gospel.
Thus Paul finds himself in a Roman jail, writing. Not writing the governor for a pardon, not writing his friends to petition his freedom, but instead writing Ephesians, Colossians and many other books of his corpus.
Can we learn from Paul? What do you do in your times of trial and persecution? Do you abort (or pause) mission as you take care of your own stuff. You and I probably know many who have taken a
‘break’ from God or church. Life’s trials have rail-roaded them from their once passionate and focused mission for God. Prison is meant to get the best out of us, not the worst. Suffering and trials are supposed to perfect us, cleaning us up, sharpening us to do a better job for the kingdom (James 1:1-5).
What is your prison? What trials are you currently in? How did you handle them?
So today, be like Paul and embrace prison. Embrace your place of suffering. Rejoice in your trials. Ask God what can you learn from this season. But whatever you do, don’t get worse, get better. Keep pushing. Keep the fire burning. Keep ministering, and stay on course on the mission of God for your life.
See Paul was called to suffer for Christ. When God appeared to him on the Damascus road encounter (Acts 9), God prophesied to Paul that he would suffer greatly for the cause of the Gospel.
Thus Paul finds himself in a Roman jail, writing. Not writing the governor for a pardon, not writing his friends to petition his freedom, but instead writing Ephesians, Colossians and many other books of his corpus.
Can we learn from Paul? What do you do in your times of trial and persecution? Do you abort (or pause) mission as you take care of your own stuff. You and I probably know many who have taken a
‘break’ from God or church. Life’s trials have rail-roaded them from their once passionate and focused mission for God. Prison is meant to get the best out of us, not the worst. Suffering and trials are supposed to perfect us, cleaning us up, sharpening us to do a better job for the kingdom (James 1:1-5).
What is your prison? What trials are you currently in? How did you handle them?
So today, be like Paul and embrace prison. Embrace your place of suffering. Rejoice in your trials. Ask God what can you learn from this season. But whatever you do, don’t get worse, get better. Keep pushing. Keep the fire burning. Keep ministering, and stay on course on the mission of God for your life.
Barren?
Have you ever wondered why all the matriarch’s were barren? Sarah didn’t have a child until she was 90. Rebekah, Isaac’s wife struggled for a season to have children until her husband interceded and she bore twins. Rachel also was barren for a long time, as she desperately cries out in Genesis 30.
This condition of barrenness would have been a significant trial for these women, for in that time, bearing children was the crowning joy of woman, it indicated success, being in favour with God and also with one’s husband.
Our reading of Galatians recently quotes a unique scripture in Isaiah, “Be glad O barren woman, who bears no children; break forth and cry aloud (for joy….) Galatians 4:27.
Paul strangely urges the barren woman to be excited and shout for joy, just as Isaiah did (Isaiah 54).
What would make a barren woman sing for joy? Of course it would have to be children. Paul sees the upside in the condition of barrenness that would be hard for most to see. Galatians 4:23 indicates that children born naturally or without much trial are simply ordinary, yet those born supernaturally despite a barren condition are God ordained.
Barrenness forces a woman in the bible to turn to God. It brings her to a state of desperation, for out of her utter shame and desolation, having run out of self made options, she is forced to turn to God, and her pain is turned into joy as God miraculously gives her a child.
Are you barren? Do you have dreams that you would like to see happen, but things are not quite there yet? Do you bear the fruit you desire? Are you believing for more in your life or more in your ministry? Learn from the barren woman. Get desperate, and cry out to God. Don’t force things. Seek God’s spirit, and God’s way. And once you begin to bear fruit, ask yourself, is this fruit God ordained or self-ordained? Notice Paul does not just commend fruit in Galatians 4. He commends fruit borne out of a true and total dependency on God.
This condition of barrenness would have been a significant trial for these women, for in that time, bearing children was the crowning joy of woman, it indicated success, being in favour with God and also with one’s husband.
Our reading of Galatians recently quotes a unique scripture in Isaiah, “Be glad O barren woman, who bears no children; break forth and cry aloud (for joy….) Galatians 4:27.
Paul strangely urges the barren woman to be excited and shout for joy, just as Isaiah did (Isaiah 54).
What would make a barren woman sing for joy? Of course it would have to be children. Paul sees the upside in the condition of barrenness that would be hard for most to see. Galatians 4:23 indicates that children born naturally or without much trial are simply ordinary, yet those born supernaturally despite a barren condition are God ordained.
Barrenness forces a woman in the bible to turn to God. It brings her to a state of desperation, for out of her utter shame and desolation, having run out of self made options, she is forced to turn to God, and her pain is turned into joy as God miraculously gives her a child.
Are you barren? Do you have dreams that you would like to see happen, but things are not quite there yet? Do you bear the fruit you desire? Are you believing for more in your life or more in your ministry? Learn from the barren woman. Get desperate, and cry out to God. Don’t force things. Seek God’s spirit, and God’s way. And once you begin to bear fruit, ask yourself, is this fruit God ordained or self-ordained? Notice Paul does not just commend fruit in Galatians 4. He commends fruit borne out of a true and total dependency on God.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Whose burden are you carrying?
The miracle at Nain records a powerful story of Jesus raising a boy belonging to a widow from the dead (Luke 7:10-17). This story really grabs me due to the recent journey that I have been on. This lady in the story had obviously been through tragedy. Having lost her husband and becoming a widow. She had already been burdened with grief. Further, now her son had died suddenly. You can imagine the woman’s state of grief. This boy would have been of immense help around the home, being the only son. He was also the hope of the family name being passed on to the next generation. But all this was gone in a moment as the severe effects of death made this all apparent. Thus this lady is found in a funeral procession burdened with grief upon grief as she heads to bury her son.
My theme today is burden. I ask the question whose burden are your carrying. I recently shared a message on having the compassion of Christ. For in his compassion, Christ was burdened enough to meet people’s needs. As I and some of the people around me have recently decided to start intensely pray for the lost, God has been challenging me with this question. Whose burden are you carrying? Are you burdened enough? Are you burdened like Widow of Nain? See this story is relevant because many that we know though not physically dead like the boy in this story are spiritually dead. And just like the widow was burdened by this untimely death we need to be burdened by the death of our friends and family. When I speak of this burden, I speak not as one who has already received it. But instead I join with you my friend in asking God to open my eyes and touch my heart so I can be truly burdened by the lost ones he has given to me.
As the story goes, this burdened lady meets Jesus who is the giver of life. Jesus via his divine grace assesses her need, and raises the dead to life. My prayer is that Jesus will meet you today. That he will notice you in the funeral procession, where you lament for the lives of those who are doomed to eternity. Think about it. If you are not found lamenting, you will never be found rejoicing. Jesus can only bring back to life, those who are dead. Have you really understood your friends are dead? Do you want Jesus to bring them back to life? Then why don’t you pray? But don’t pray the usual way. Be burdened truly, by the spiritual loss of your friends. Pray the prayer of tears. Mourn your friends’ death, so that Christ might comfort those who mourn, and bring blissful life to those who are dead.
My theme today is burden. I ask the question whose burden are your carrying. I recently shared a message on having the compassion of Christ. For in his compassion, Christ was burdened enough to meet people’s needs. As I and some of the people around me have recently decided to start intensely pray for the lost, God has been challenging me with this question. Whose burden are you carrying? Are you burdened enough? Are you burdened like Widow of Nain? See this story is relevant because many that we know though not physically dead like the boy in this story are spiritually dead. And just like the widow was burdened by this untimely death we need to be burdened by the death of our friends and family. When I speak of this burden, I speak not as one who has already received it. But instead I join with you my friend in asking God to open my eyes and touch my heart so I can be truly burdened by the lost ones he has given to me.
As the story goes, this burdened lady meets Jesus who is the giver of life. Jesus via his divine grace assesses her need, and raises the dead to life. My prayer is that Jesus will meet you today. That he will notice you in the funeral procession, where you lament for the lives of those who are doomed to eternity. Think about it. If you are not found lamenting, you will never be found rejoicing. Jesus can only bring back to life, those who are dead. Have you really understood your friends are dead? Do you want Jesus to bring them back to life? Then why don’t you pray? But don’t pray the usual way. Be burdened truly, by the spiritual loss of your friends. Pray the prayer of tears. Mourn your friends’ death, so that Christ might comfort those who mourn, and bring blissful life to those who are dead.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Control
Jacob was destined to rule over Esau. This was pre-determined by God. For God indicates “Jacob I loved Esau I hated”. Jacob grabbing Esau’s heel in the womb, and coming out at the same time as Jacob when the twins were born was indicative of this divine destiny. Further Jacob had bargained with Esau in Genesis Chapter 27 to have Esau’s birthright, indicating he would receive the first part of their father’s estate.
Though Jacob’s destiny was already known there was a divine order for it to be achieved. God would have worked things out in his own time. Just like Jacob you might have a dream, a destiny, a burden or a plan that you feel comes from God. Are you letting God work it out in his own time, or would you take matters into your own hand like Jacob did?
Jacob had to have control of his destiny. True to his name which meant deceiver, he pretended he was his brother, and received the blessing intended by his dad for Esau. Though this blessing was divinely his, it was received in a sinful fashion. Upon receiving this blessing Jacob’s rulership over Esau was finally confirmed and would happen imminently.
Taking matters into our own hands, while might be successful in the short term yields much sorrow in the long term. Jacob’s deceit would cost him much as we will discover in the proceeding chapters.
Who’s in control of your life, your dreams and your hopes? Are you letting God do what he wants in your life, or are you playing God in your life? Are you making things happen in your own life, or is God the one initiating them? Are you spirit led, or self led? Learn from Jacob’s story, God promises that in due time we will reap a harvest if we wait for him. (Gal 6) Let’s submit even a little more today than we ever have to God, and give him control over our lives.
Though Jacob’s destiny was already known there was a divine order for it to be achieved. God would have worked things out in his own time. Just like Jacob you might have a dream, a destiny, a burden or a plan that you feel comes from God. Are you letting God work it out in his own time, or would you take matters into your own hand like Jacob did?
Jacob had to have control of his destiny. True to his name which meant deceiver, he pretended he was his brother, and received the blessing intended by his dad for Esau. Though this blessing was divinely his, it was received in a sinful fashion. Upon receiving this blessing Jacob’s rulership over Esau was finally confirmed and would happen imminently.
Taking matters into our own hands, while might be successful in the short term yields much sorrow in the long term. Jacob’s deceit would cost him much as we will discover in the proceeding chapters.
Who’s in control of your life, your dreams and your hopes? Are you letting God do what he wants in your life, or are you playing God in your life? Are you making things happen in your own life, or is God the one initiating them? Are you spirit led, or self led? Learn from Jacob’s story, God promises that in due time we will reap a harvest if we wait for him. (Gal 6) Let’s submit even a little more today than we ever have to God, and give him control over our lives.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Stay in your land of promise!!!
The bible reading for today (Genesis 23-24) focuses uniquely on one geographic area-Mamre, which was in the land of Canaan.
The details of the burial land negotiations while a bit much show the desire of Abraham to bury his wife in a specific place, the land of Mamre. Further, chapter 24 reveals Abraham’s desire that Isaac not leave this same land to find a wife. Isaac’s future bride must be brought back to the land where Abraham and Isaac dwelt.
All this emphasis on Mamre begs the question why is the land so significant, and what does it mean to me? Mamre was in Canaan, the region God had promised to Abraham and his descendants forever. Specifically in Mamre, God had spoken to Abraham several times and revealed details of his marvellous plans for his family. Mamre was a special place, where God had chosen to speak to Abraham, time and time again. Abraham was not about to leave this place, and instead would do whatever it took to ensure his family lived near there and was buried there.
Places are very significant. God not only calls us to ministries and careers, but also to certain places (Acts 17:26). When we are situated in the right place, we can discern and actualize God’s will for our life. As you continue to seek God, grow and follow his leading for your life, be very aware of the place you live, and the place God wants you to be. Are you in the right place? Does God want to move you elsewhere? Do you value the place God has you right now? Don’t ever leave a place, unless God is leading you. For in the place God has called you, there you will find his blessings.
The details of the burial land negotiations while a bit much show the desire of Abraham to bury his wife in a specific place, the land of Mamre. Further, chapter 24 reveals Abraham’s desire that Isaac not leave this same land to find a wife. Isaac’s future bride must be brought back to the land where Abraham and Isaac dwelt.
All this emphasis on Mamre begs the question why is the land so significant, and what does it mean to me? Mamre was in Canaan, the region God had promised to Abraham and his descendants forever. Specifically in Mamre, God had spoken to Abraham several times and revealed details of his marvellous plans for his family. Mamre was a special place, where God had chosen to speak to Abraham, time and time again. Abraham was not about to leave this place, and instead would do whatever it took to ensure his family lived near there and was buried there.
Places are very significant. God not only calls us to ministries and careers, but also to certain places (Acts 17:26). When we are situated in the right place, we can discern and actualize God’s will for our life. As you continue to seek God, grow and follow his leading for your life, be very aware of the place you live, and the place God wants you to be. Are you in the right place? Does God want to move you elsewhere? Do you value the place God has you right now? Don’t ever leave a place, unless God is leading you. For in the place God has called you, there you will find his blessings.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Lot's prayer of 3???
Some of us have embarked on the “prayer of 3 strategy” in our battle to win souls to Christ. As I was reflecting on some pertinent scriptures this morning I realized how much this strategy relates to my blog yesterday about Lot.
It is very clear that people around us are not only lost but bound. 2 Corinthians 4:4 indicates that people cannot see Jesus and they have been blinded by Satan. 2 Timothy 2:25-26, also reveals this truth. This passage depicts unbelievers as those who have been trapped by our enemy the devil.
Lot was surrounded by a whole city of people who were senselessly blinded and hopelessly trapped by the devil and his deceptions. These people were lost beyond reasonable persuasion to consider the ways of God. How was Lot supposed to win them to the Lord? What was his responsibility?
The final passage that is key here is 1 Timothy 2:1 - 4. Here we are instructed that prayer is foundational in winning souls to Christ. Verse 1 indicates that we should not only pray for those who know or love, but that we should pray for everyone. It amazes me that the writer here believes there is actually hope for the world. We are asked to pray for everyone; for rulers, leaders, neighbours, family, friends, enemies....everyone. Our prayer is according to verse 4 that they might know Christ as the only way to God.
Prayer I believe is the missing ingredient in many of our efforts to win people to Christ. I wonder if Lot actually prayed for his city. We are shown in Genesis 18 that Abraham, Lot’s righteous cousin interceded for Lot’s city, but never is it revealed that Lot prayed. The second aspect intrinsic to prayer in our strategy is of course fasting. Isaiah 58 (as referenced in Yohan’s Media Dose of last week), Mark 9 and other scriptures reveal that fasting looses the chains of the devil on people. Prayer is foundational, but fasting is a catalyst igniting our prayers for speedy responses.
As we take on the challenge to fight injustice, alleviate oppression and win souls to Christ, let’s remember that this battle is not against flesh and blood, but principalities and demonic personalities (2 Corinthians 10:5). Further let’s realize that God has given us the assurance that we can and should pray for everyone, and that there is hope for their salvation.
If you haven’t started the prayer of 3, then I challenge you to join in. Pray, fast, be burdened and win souls to Christ.
It is very clear that people around us are not only lost but bound. 2 Corinthians 4:4 indicates that people cannot see Jesus and they have been blinded by Satan. 2 Timothy 2:25-26, also reveals this truth. This passage depicts unbelievers as those who have been trapped by our enemy the devil.
Lot was surrounded by a whole city of people who were senselessly blinded and hopelessly trapped by the devil and his deceptions. These people were lost beyond reasonable persuasion to consider the ways of God. How was Lot supposed to win them to the Lord? What was his responsibility?
The final passage that is key here is 1 Timothy 2:1 - 4. Here we are instructed that prayer is foundational in winning souls to Christ. Verse 1 indicates that we should not only pray for those who know or love, but that we should pray for everyone. It amazes me that the writer here believes there is actually hope for the world. We are asked to pray for everyone; for rulers, leaders, neighbours, family, friends, enemies....everyone. Our prayer is according to verse 4 that they might know Christ as the only way to God.
Prayer I believe is the missing ingredient in many of our efforts to win people to Christ. I wonder if Lot actually prayed for his city. We are shown in Genesis 18 that Abraham, Lot’s righteous cousin interceded for Lot’s city, but never is it revealed that Lot prayed. The second aspect intrinsic to prayer in our strategy is of course fasting. Isaiah 58 (as referenced in Yohan’s Media Dose of last week), Mark 9 and other scriptures reveal that fasting looses the chains of the devil on people. Prayer is foundational, but fasting is a catalyst igniting our prayers for speedy responses.
As we take on the challenge to fight injustice, alleviate oppression and win souls to Christ, let’s remember that this battle is not against flesh and blood, but principalities and demonic personalities (2 Corinthians 10:5). Further let’s realize that God has given us the assurance that we can and should pray for everyone, and that there is hope for their salvation.
If you haven’t started the prayer of 3, then I challenge you to join in. Pray, fast, be burdened and win souls to Christ.
Monday, September 15, 2008
What are we doing where we are?
In our daily reading today, I read about the story of Lot’s hasty departure from Sodom. Just a few quick thoughts.
Lot was a righteous man, however he was totally surrounded by evil. While being surrounded by evil was not Lot’s fault, an examination of the story shows his culpability.
The men of the city who tried to rape the angelic visitors had no regard for Lot. They referred to him as an alien who was trying to play the judge. Clearly if Lot had been making inroads in building relationships with this people and winning some to the Lord, there might have been a different response. At least some would have a different view of Lot, yet all the men in the city had nothing good to say about Lot, worse yet, indicating they didn’t really know him.
Lot’s failure is also revealed in the lack of discipleship of his own family. His daughters were pledged to marry two sons of Sodom. These potential sons-in-law had no regard for Lot’s warning of the heavenly judgment that was headed their way. Lot was to blame in allowing his daughters to be engaged to these men who apparently didn’t fear God. Further Lot’s daughters are shown later to commit incest with their father for fear that they would be childless since their loved ones had died. A final indictment against Lot’s ability as a Godly patriarch of his family would be his wife’s failure to trust in God’s providence. She looked back at Sodom and probably wished she was back in this land full of sin and abomination. This act revealed her true heart condition which was definitely not right with God.
In conclusion, my question is what are we doing where we are? Clearly times are evil, people disregard God, and Christians are passé. Yet we are called to be salt (no pun intended) and light wherever we go. Can we learn from Lot’s life, and determine to challenge sin, fight evil and lobby for righteousness by making a difference in the lives of those around us. If we don’t win anyone to Christ, will we at least convince those around us of the message of Christ. Let’s not be like Lot. Let’s put on Christ, so that others can clearly see the way, and perhaps find the way, thus aiding in making our world a more righteous place.
Olu Jegede
Lot was a righteous man, however he was totally surrounded by evil. While being surrounded by evil was not Lot’s fault, an examination of the story shows his culpability.
The men of the city who tried to rape the angelic visitors had no regard for Lot. They referred to him as an alien who was trying to play the judge. Clearly if Lot had been making inroads in building relationships with this people and winning some to the Lord, there might have been a different response. At least some would have a different view of Lot, yet all the men in the city had nothing good to say about Lot, worse yet, indicating they didn’t really know him.
Lot’s failure is also revealed in the lack of discipleship of his own family. His daughters were pledged to marry two sons of Sodom. These potential sons-in-law had no regard for Lot’s warning of the heavenly judgment that was headed their way. Lot was to blame in allowing his daughters to be engaged to these men who apparently didn’t fear God. Further Lot’s daughters are shown later to commit incest with their father for fear that they would be childless since their loved ones had died. A final indictment against Lot’s ability as a Godly patriarch of his family would be his wife’s failure to trust in God’s providence. She looked back at Sodom and probably wished she was back in this land full of sin and abomination. This act revealed her true heart condition which was definitely not right with God.
In conclusion, my question is what are we doing where we are? Clearly times are evil, people disregard God, and Christians are passé. Yet we are called to be salt (no pun intended) and light wherever we go. Can we learn from Lot’s life, and determine to challenge sin, fight evil and lobby for righteousness by making a difference in the lives of those around us. If we don’t win anyone to Christ, will we at least convince those around us of the message of Christ. Let’s not be like Lot. Let’s put on Christ, so that others can clearly see the way, and perhaps find the way, thus aiding in making our world a more righteous place.
Olu Jegede
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
