"But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those of them whom you let remain shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell." Nu33.55 ESV
All that remains in us of the old life must be driven out once we come to Christ. And fortunately, as new creatures we truly desire this. Each of us has been given this gift--this longing for change, to purge all that robs us of His peace. Yet, the old inhabitants will put up a fight as we seek to subdue and drive them out. Anger, lust, envy, pride-a whole host of enemies are entrenched in the recesses of our mind. For the reason we are told to renew our mind, to take captive every thought. All of this reduces our conflict down to one simple arena; we fight the fight one thought at a time. My next thought, my next choice, my next action either advances or gives ground in this spiritual war within us. All war eventually comes down to hand to hand combat. 1/31/2008 ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Hand to hand Combat
"But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those of them whom you let remain shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell." Nu33.55 ESV
All that remains in us of the old life must be driven out once we come to Christ. And fortunately, as new creatures we truly desire this. Each of us has been given this gift--this longing for change, to purge all that robs us of His peace. Yet, the old inhabitants will put up a fight as we seek to subdue and drive them out. Anger, lust, envy, pride-a whole host of enemies are entrenched in the recesses of our mind. For the reason we are told to renew our mind, to take captive every thought. All of this reduces our conflict down to one simple arena; we fight the fight one thought at a time. My next thought, my next choice, my next action either advances or gives ground in this spiritual war within us. All war eventually comes down to hand to hand combat. 1/31/2008 ts
All that remains in us of the old life must be driven out once we come to Christ. And fortunately, as new creatures we truly desire this. Each of us has been given this gift--this longing for change, to purge all that robs us of His peace. Yet, the old inhabitants will put up a fight as we seek to subdue and drive them out. Anger, lust, envy, pride-a whole host of enemies are entrenched in the recesses of our mind. For the reason we are told to renew our mind, to take captive every thought. All of this reduces our conflict down to one simple arena; we fight the fight one thought at a time. My next thought, my next choice, my next action either advances or gives ground in this spiritual war within us. All war eventually comes down to hand to hand combat. 1/31/2008 ts
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Acorns, and trees and crosses and …
“So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.” Lk.33 ESV
I think when we read these words of Christ, they seem to us, at least at first, somewhat extreme. Did Jesus really mean that I am to renounce all I possess? Well truthfully, this is only part of what He said. The whole is far more uncompromising. Jesus wants more than our possessions, He wants our very lives. He may start with our possessions but He fully intends to wind up with our hearts.
Renouncing mere possessions is the first step toward denying self and denying the next step toward dying. Just as a seed must fall to the ground and die before it can become what it is to be, so must we. And, in dying to self, we, like a single acorn becoming the trees of a thousand forests, also may become--become far more than we could ever imagine. Death comes before resurrection.
The one who died for us is asking us to do the same, to die for Him. Is this not the life of a disciple but to follow in the footsteps of His Master. His footsteps of course led to the cross, and our footsteps in His will ultimately lead us to our cross, but not before first coming to His for cleansing. His cross makes our cross possible, and the good news, His resurrection--our own.
“I have been crucified with Christ.
It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.
And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Gal2.20 ESV
I think when we read these words of Christ, they seem to us, at least at first, somewhat extreme. Did Jesus really mean that I am to renounce all I possess? Well truthfully, this is only part of what He said. The whole is far more uncompromising. Jesus wants more than our possessions, He wants our very lives. He may start with our possessions but He fully intends to wind up with our hearts.
Renouncing mere possessions is the first step toward denying self and denying the next step toward dying. Just as a seed must fall to the ground and die before it can become what it is to be, so must we. And, in dying to self, we, like a single acorn becoming the trees of a thousand forests, also may become--become far more than we could ever imagine. Death comes before resurrection.
The one who died for us is asking us to do the same, to die for Him. Is this not the life of a disciple but to follow in the footsteps of His Master. His footsteps of course led to the cross, and our footsteps in His will ultimately lead us to our cross, but not before first coming to His for cleansing. His cross makes our cross possible, and the good news, His resurrection--our own.
“I have been crucified with Christ.
It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.
And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Gal2.20 ESV
Acorns, and trees and crosses and …
“So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.” Lk.33 ESV
I think when we read these words of Christ, they seem to us, at least at first, somewhat extreme. Did Jesus really mean that I am to renounce all I possess? Well truthfully, this is only part of what He said. The whole is far more uncompromising. Jesus wants more than our possessions, He wants our very lives. He may start with our possessions but He fully intends to wind up with our hearts.
Renouncing mere possessions is the first step toward denying self and denying the next step toward dying. Just as a seed must fall to the ground and die before it can become what it is to be, so must we. And, in dying to self, we, like a single acorn becoming the trees of a thousand forests, also may become--become far more than we could ever imagine. Death comes before resurrection.
The one who died for us is asking us to do the same, to die for Him. Is this not the life of a disciple but to follow in the footsteps of His Master. His footsteps of course led to the cross, and our footsteps in His will ultimately lead us to our cross, but not before first coming to His for cleansing. His cross makes our cross possible, and the good news, His resurrection--our own.
“I have been crucified with Christ.
It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.
And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Gal2.20 ESV
I think when we read these words of Christ, they seem to us, at least at first, somewhat extreme. Did Jesus really mean that I am to renounce all I possess? Well truthfully, this is only part of what He said. The whole is far more uncompromising. Jesus wants more than our possessions, He wants our very lives. He may start with our possessions but He fully intends to wind up with our hearts.
Renouncing mere possessions is the first step toward denying self and denying the next step toward dying. Just as a seed must fall to the ground and die before it can become what it is to be, so must we. And, in dying to self, we, like a single acorn becoming the trees of a thousand forests, also may become--become far more than we could ever imagine. Death comes before resurrection.
The one who died for us is asking us to do the same, to die for Him. Is this not the life of a disciple but to follow in the footsteps of His Master. His footsteps of course led to the cross, and our footsteps in His will ultimately lead us to our cross, but not before first coming to His for cleansing. His cross makes our cross possible, and the good news, His resurrection--our own.
“I have been crucified with Christ.
It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.
And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Gal2.20 ESV
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Who’s invited to the party?
“You are a God who sees me.” Gen16.13
We should read with keen interest this very personal affirmation about God. It was spoken by someone, who was rejected and outcast. God sees everyone and everything, yet His eyes have a special sensitivity to the needy. He makes Himself a Father to the fatherless, and husband to the widow. He comes to the aid of the oppressed and watches over those who cannot defend themselves.
Jesus would have us acquire His eye, to see as he sees and to use our resources on behalf of those in need. The best selling author of ‘The Purpose Driven Life,” was asked about his newfound wealth and influence. He replied that both were a trust from God, not for personal gain, but to be used to help and speak out for those who have no voice. When God blesses some of us with abundance He intends that we be a spreader of seed not a storage bin. Let us hold with loose hands all that God graciously pours into them, that His blessings may trickle down to all who are in need.
“But when you give a feast,
invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,
and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you.
For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just." Jesus
1/29/2008 ts
We should read with keen interest this very personal affirmation about God. It was spoken by someone, who was rejected and outcast. God sees everyone and everything, yet His eyes have a special sensitivity to the needy. He makes Himself a Father to the fatherless, and husband to the widow. He comes to the aid of the oppressed and watches over those who cannot defend themselves.
Jesus would have us acquire His eye, to see as he sees and to use our resources on behalf of those in need. The best selling author of ‘The Purpose Driven Life,” was asked about his newfound wealth and influence. He replied that both were a trust from God, not for personal gain, but to be used to help and speak out for those who have no voice. When God blesses some of us with abundance He intends that we be a spreader of seed not a storage bin. Let us hold with loose hands all that God graciously pours into them, that His blessings may trickle down to all who are in need.
“But when you give a feast,
invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,
and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you.
For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just." Jesus
1/29/2008 ts
Who’s invited to the party?
“You are a God who sees me.” Gen16.13
We should read with keen interest this very personal affirmation about God. It was spoken by someone, who was rejected and outcast. God sees everyone and everything, yet His eyes have a special sensitivity to the needy. He makes Himself a Father to the fatherless, and husband to the widow. He comes to the aid of the oppressed and watches over those who cannot defend themselves.
Jesus would have us acquire His eye, to see as he sees and to use our resources on behalf of those in need. The best selling author of ‘The Purpose Driven Life,” was asked about his newfound wealth and influence. He replied that both were a trust from God, not for personal gain, but to be used to help and speak out for those who have no voice. When God blesses some of us with abundance He intends that we be a spreader of seed not a storage bin. Let us hold with loose hands all that God graciously pours into them, that His blessings may trickle down to all who are in need.
“But when you give a feast,
invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,
and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you.
For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just." Jesus
1/29/2008 ts
We should read with keen interest this very personal affirmation about God. It was spoken by someone, who was rejected and outcast. God sees everyone and everything, yet His eyes have a special sensitivity to the needy. He makes Himself a Father to the fatherless, and husband to the widow. He comes to the aid of the oppressed and watches over those who cannot defend themselves.
Jesus would have us acquire His eye, to see as he sees and to use our resources on behalf of those in need. The best selling author of ‘The Purpose Driven Life,” was asked about his newfound wealth and influence. He replied that both were a trust from God, not for personal gain, but to be used to help and speak out for those who have no voice. When God blesses some of us with abundance He intends that we be a spreader of seed not a storage bin. Let us hold with loose hands all that God graciously pours into them, that His blessings may trickle down to all who are in need.
“But when you give a feast,
invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,
and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you.
For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just." Jesus
1/29/2008 ts
Monday, January 28, 2008
Poems, Prayers and Promises
“and as your days, so shall your strength be.” Dt33.25 ESV
As I read these words an old song from my youth came to mind. I am referring to John Denver’s, “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” The song celebrates the simple and quiet joys of friendship and life. One line in particular has always stuck with me and, though Denver did not live to a ripe old age, the verse captures a realization in my own soul,
“The days they pass so quickly now Nights are seldom long And time around me whispers when its cold
The changes somehow frighten me Still I have to smile It turns me on to think of growing old.”
I am now in my fifties and life is such that I would see more of it. The other day I told Brenda that I looked forward to growing old together. I asked how old she would like to live before departing for glory. In her matter of fact manner, she told me that she would not want to live past usefulness or being able to get around well. Well, said!
This blessing, given to Asher by his elderly father, is one that we all would want. It has been paraphrased. “May the strength of thy old age be like that of thy youth; you shall not feel decay, nor be the worse for the wearing…” Such was the life of Moses the man of God, “Moses was 120 years old when he died. His eye was undimmed, and his vigor unabated.” Dt.34.
Someone has said, “If you would live long, choose your parents well.” I am not so sure that it is vital that we live long as it is that we live well and doing so, choose God as our Father.
“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Is40.31 1/28/2008 ts
As I read these words an old song from my youth came to mind. I am referring to John Denver’s, “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” The song celebrates the simple and quiet joys of friendship and life. One line in particular has always stuck with me and, though Denver did not live to a ripe old age, the verse captures a realization in my own soul,
“The days they pass so quickly now Nights are seldom long And time around me whispers when its cold
The changes somehow frighten me Still I have to smile It turns me on to think of growing old.”
I am now in my fifties and life is such that I would see more of it. The other day I told Brenda that I looked forward to growing old together. I asked how old she would like to live before departing for glory. In her matter of fact manner, she told me that she would not want to live past usefulness or being able to get around well. Well, said!
This blessing, given to Asher by his elderly father, is one that we all would want. It has been paraphrased. “May the strength of thy old age be like that of thy youth; you shall not feel decay, nor be the worse for the wearing…” Such was the life of Moses the man of God, “Moses was 120 years old when he died. His eye was undimmed, and his vigor unabated.” Dt.34.
Someone has said, “If you would live long, choose your parents well.” I am not so sure that it is vital that we live long as it is that we live well and doing so, choose God as our Father.
“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Is40.31 1/28/2008 ts
Poems, Prayers and Promises
“and as your days, so shall your strength be.” Dt33.25 ESV
As I read these words an old song from my youth came to mind. I am referring to John Denver’s, “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” The song celebrates the simple and quiet joys of friendship and life. One line in particular has always stuck with me and, though Denver did not live to a ripe old age, the verse captures a realization in my own soul,
“The days they pass so quickly now Nights are seldom long And time around me whispers when its cold
The changes somehow frighten me Still I have to smile It turns me on to think of growing old.”
I am now in my fifties and life is such that I would see more of it. The other day I told Brenda that I looked forward to growing old together. I asked how old she would like to live before departing for glory. In her matter of fact manner, she told me that she would not want to live past usefulness or being able to get around well. Well, said!
This blessing, given to Asher by his elderly father, is one that we all would want. It has been paraphrased. “May the strength of thy old age be like that of thy youth; you shall not feel decay, nor be the worse for the wearing…” Such was the life of Moses the man of God, “Moses was 120 years old when he died. His eye was undimmed, and his vigor unabated.” Dt.34.
Someone has said, “If you would live long, choose your parents well.” I am not so sure that it is vital that we live long as it is that we live well and doing so, choose God as our Father.
“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Is40.31 1/28/2008 ts
As I read these words an old song from my youth came to mind. I am referring to John Denver’s, “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” The song celebrates the simple and quiet joys of friendship and life. One line in particular has always stuck with me and, though Denver did not live to a ripe old age, the verse captures a realization in my own soul,
“The days they pass so quickly now Nights are seldom long And time around me whispers when its cold
The changes somehow frighten me Still I have to smile It turns me on to think of growing old.”
I am now in my fifties and life is such that I would see more of it. The other day I told Brenda that I looked forward to growing old together. I asked how old she would like to live before departing for glory. In her matter of fact manner, she told me that she would not want to live past usefulness or being able to get around well. Well, said!
This blessing, given to Asher by his elderly father, is one that we all would want. It has been paraphrased. “May the strength of thy old age be like that of thy youth; you shall not feel decay, nor be the worse for the wearing…” Such was the life of Moses the man of God, “Moses was 120 years old when he died. His eye was undimmed, and his vigor unabated.” Dt.34.
Someone has said, “If you would live long, choose your parents well.” I am not so sure that it is vital that we live long as it is that we live well and doing so, choose God as our Father.
“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Is40.31 1/28/2008 ts
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Badge of honor
“Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured.” Heb13.13 ESV
My dad served as an Alabama State trooper for over 25 years. State troopers are not very popular among those who want to ignore state speed limits. I have actually heard someone say after passing a trooper on the side of the road, ‘I hate those guys.” I remember as a child noticing that my dad had added a new pin to his trooper attire. Next to his badge, he wore a tiny pin of a pig. You may well remember the days when “pig” was a much used derogatory term for police officers by those who did not appreciate law enforcement. By wearing the pin my dad was saying that if being called a pig meant he was being a good trooper, he was glad to be called a pig. My father embraced the reproach.
Christians may be criticized for many things. Some of the criticisms railed against us are deserved. There is no honor when anyone suffers reproach for being stupid. But when we suffer reproach for the cause of Christ let us embrace our reproach as a badge of honor. 1/26/2008 ts
My dad served as an Alabama State trooper for over 25 years. State troopers are not very popular among those who want to ignore state speed limits. I have actually heard someone say after passing a trooper on the side of the road, ‘I hate those guys.” I remember as a child noticing that my dad had added a new pin to his trooper attire. Next to his badge, he wore a tiny pin of a pig. You may well remember the days when “pig” was a much used derogatory term for police officers by those who did not appreciate law enforcement. By wearing the pin my dad was saying that if being called a pig meant he was being a good trooper, he was glad to be called a pig. My father embraced the reproach.
Christians may be criticized for many things. Some of the criticisms railed against us are deserved. There is no honor when anyone suffers reproach for being stupid. But when we suffer reproach for the cause of Christ let us embrace our reproach as a badge of honor. 1/26/2008 ts
Badge of honor
“Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured.” Heb13.13 ESV
My dad served as an Alabama State trooper for over 25 years. State troopers are not very popular among those who want to ignore state speed limits. I have actually heard someone say after passing a trooper on the side of the road, ‘I hate those guys.” I remember as a child noticing that my dad had added a new pin to his trooper attire. Next to his badge, he wore a tiny pin of a pig. You may well remember the days when “pig” was a much used derogatory term for police officers by those who did not appreciate law enforcement. By wearing the pin my dad was saying that if being called a pig meant he was being a good trooper, he was glad to be called a pig. My father embraced the reproach.
Christians may be criticized for many things. Some of the criticisms railed against us are deserved. There is no honor when anyone suffers reproach for being stupid. But when we suffer reproach for the cause of Christ let us embrace our reproach as a badge of honor. 1/26/2008 ts
My dad served as an Alabama State trooper for over 25 years. State troopers are not very popular among those who want to ignore state speed limits. I have actually heard someone say after passing a trooper on the side of the road, ‘I hate those guys.” I remember as a child noticing that my dad had added a new pin to his trooper attire. Next to his badge, he wore a tiny pin of a pig. You may well remember the days when “pig” was a much used derogatory term for police officers by those who did not appreciate law enforcement. By wearing the pin my dad was saying that if being called a pig meant he was being a good trooper, he was glad to be called a pig. My father embraced the reproach.
Christians may be criticized for many things. Some of the criticisms railed against us are deserved. There is no honor when anyone suffers reproach for being stupid. But when we suffer reproach for the cause of Christ let us embrace our reproach as a badge of honor. 1/26/2008 ts
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Set in Stone
“Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” Ja5.8 ESV
A good friend of mine never does anything half way. When He builds something, He builds it to last. When He fixes something, you might say he “sets it in stone,” and I mean literally. When he wished to secure his bass boat, from thievery, He not only locked the front of the trailer, he also attached one end of a half-inch chain to the back of the trailer and sunk the other end deep into a hole in the ground where he poured fresh concrete.
The word in this verse, which encourages us to “establish” our heart, conveys the same kind of resolute energy. We are being told to set our heart steadfast on all that the coming of Christ will accomplish and to direct our energies completely and unchangeably on the coming Kingdom. If we would keep thieves from stealing what is precious to our heart, then we had best set our heart on the permanent and not on the perishing.
We do this of course, every time we make some small decision, which emphasizes the eternal over the temporal. And, as concrete grows stronger the longer it sets, so our hearts will be established and ready for the coming of the Lord. We must burn the bridges to our former lusts and fix our eyes on the eastern sky. 1/24/2008 ts
A good friend of mine never does anything half way. When He builds something, He builds it to last. When He fixes something, you might say he “sets it in stone,” and I mean literally. When he wished to secure his bass boat, from thievery, He not only locked the front of the trailer, he also attached one end of a half-inch chain to the back of the trailer and sunk the other end deep into a hole in the ground where he poured fresh concrete.
The word in this verse, which encourages us to “establish” our heart, conveys the same kind of resolute energy. We are being told to set our heart steadfast on all that the coming of Christ will accomplish and to direct our energies completely and unchangeably on the coming Kingdom. If we would keep thieves from stealing what is precious to our heart, then we had best set our heart on the permanent and not on the perishing.
We do this of course, every time we make some small decision, which emphasizes the eternal over the temporal. And, as concrete grows stronger the longer it sets, so our hearts will be established and ready for the coming of the Lord. We must burn the bridges to our former lusts and fix our eyes on the eastern sky. 1/24/2008 ts
Set in Stone
“Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” Ja5.8 ESV
A good friend of mine never does anything half way. When He builds something, He builds it to last. When He fixes something, you might say he “sets it in stone,” and I mean literally. When he wished to secure his bass boat, from thievery, He not only locked the front of the trailer, he also attached one end of a half-inch chain to the back of the trailer and sunk the other end deep into a hole in the ground where he poured fresh concrete.
The word in this verse, which encourages us to “establish” our heart, conveys the same kind of resolute energy. We are being told to set our heart steadfast on all that the coming of Christ will accomplish and to direct our energies completely and unchangeably on the coming Kingdom. If we would keep thieves from stealing what is precious to our heart, then we had best set our heart on the permanent and not on the perishing.
We do this of course, every time we make some small decision, which emphasizes the eternal over the temporal. And, as concrete grows stronger the longer it sets, so our hearts will be established and ready for the coming of the Lord. We must burn the bridges to our former lusts and fix our eyes on the eastern sky. 1/24/2008 ts
A good friend of mine never does anything half way. When He builds something, He builds it to last. When He fixes something, you might say he “sets it in stone,” and I mean literally. When he wished to secure his bass boat, from thievery, He not only locked the front of the trailer, he also attached one end of a half-inch chain to the back of the trailer and sunk the other end deep into a hole in the ground where he poured fresh concrete.
The word in this verse, which encourages us to “establish” our heart, conveys the same kind of resolute energy. We are being told to set our heart steadfast on all that the coming of Christ will accomplish and to direct our energies completely and unchangeably on the coming Kingdom. If we would keep thieves from stealing what is precious to our heart, then we had best set our heart on the permanent and not on the perishing.
We do this of course, every time we make some small decision, which emphasizes the eternal over the temporal. And, as concrete grows stronger the longer it sets, so our hearts will be established and ready for the coming of the Lord. We must burn the bridges to our former lusts and fix our eyes on the eastern sky. 1/24/2008 ts
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
What has God promised?
I am the Lord; those who wait for me shall not be put to shame. Is49.23 ESV
This verse may also be translated, “those who put their hope in me will not be disappointed.” Of course the bottom line is that God is telling us that we can count on Him. He defines what it means to be faithful. He will never shirk His commitments to us. And, what exactly has He committed Himself to do on our behalf. Well, the individual promises are many but they all boil done to one. He has promised us His love. And, this is not so much His affection as it is His unwavering commitment to always seek and do what is needed to benefit and accomplish His good purposes for us. This means of course, that God may not give us exactly what we have asked, but we may be sure He never gives a serpent when we ask for a fish. He may, and probably will give us something higher and better than our mortal eyes are able to see. He may not give us what we ask, but He will always give us what is good. Our hope is not only in His power to answer but also in His wisdom and goodness. 1/23/2008 ts
This verse may also be translated, “those who put their hope in me will not be disappointed.” Of course the bottom line is that God is telling us that we can count on Him. He defines what it means to be faithful. He will never shirk His commitments to us. And, what exactly has He committed Himself to do on our behalf. Well, the individual promises are many but they all boil done to one. He has promised us His love. And, this is not so much His affection as it is His unwavering commitment to always seek and do what is needed to benefit and accomplish His good purposes for us. This means of course, that God may not give us exactly what we have asked, but we may be sure He never gives a serpent when we ask for a fish. He may, and probably will give us something higher and better than our mortal eyes are able to see. He may not give us what we ask, but He will always give us what is good. Our hope is not only in His power to answer but also in His wisdom and goodness. 1/23/2008 ts
What has God promised?
I am the Lord; those who wait for me shall not be put to shame. Is49.23 ESV
This verse may also be translated, “those who put their hope in me will not be disappointed.” Of course the bottom line is that God is telling us that we can count on Him. He defines what it means to be faithful. He will never shirk His commitments to us. And, what exactly has He committed Himself to do on our behalf. Well, the individual promises are many but they all boil done to one. He has promised us His love. And, this is not so much His affection as it is His unwavering commitment to always seek and do what is needed to benefit and accomplish His good purposes for us. This means of course, that God may not give us exactly what we have asked, but we may be sure He never gives a serpent when we ask for a fish. He may, and probably will give us something higher and better than our mortal eyes are able to see. He may not give us what we ask, but He will always give us what is good. Our hope is not only in His power to answer but also in His wisdom and goodness. 1/23/2008 ts
This verse may also be translated, “those who put their hope in me will not be disappointed.” Of course the bottom line is that God is telling us that we can count on Him. He defines what it means to be faithful. He will never shirk His commitments to us. And, what exactly has He committed Himself to do on our behalf. Well, the individual promises are many but they all boil done to one. He has promised us His love. And, this is not so much His affection as it is His unwavering commitment to always seek and do what is needed to benefit and accomplish His good purposes for us. This means of course, that God may not give us exactly what we have asked, but we may be sure He never gives a serpent when we ask for a fish. He may, and probably will give us something higher and better than our mortal eyes are able to see. He may not give us what we ask, but He will always give us what is good. Our hope is not only in His power to answer but also in His wisdom and goodness. 1/23/2008 ts
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
My God!
“O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you…” Is25.1 ESV
Let me tell You what You mean to me. You are not just the Lord God, You are my God, my very own God, my personal Father. And, though I alone cannot possess You, I have never felt that I was just another somebody among billions of others. When I talk to You, I know that I have Your complete attention, even when I know in the back of my mind that You are giving Your complete attention to countless others praying that same moment. You amaze me!
It is humbling to be around You, especially when I know you are listening to me ramble on about one of my projects. I just like Your company, and I can hardly believe that You so willingly give it to someone like me. You know, I have never felt truly alone. You put me to bed each night; when I wake I hear You say, “Good morning.” We talk in the shower, eating cereal, walking in Wal-Mart, working in the garden, even watching a movie. I have never felt crowded by You, just a bit uncomfortable knowing some of the things You’ve heard me think. I know when I disappoint You, yet You never stop loving me. I also know when You are pleased by some small thing I have done. You are all the time encouraging me.
I am in awe! I am in awe not only because You are God, but because You are my God. And Jesus, thanks, I know all this is because of You. 1/22/2008 ts
Let me tell You what You mean to me. You are not just the Lord God, You are my God, my very own God, my personal Father. And, though I alone cannot possess You, I have never felt that I was just another somebody among billions of others. When I talk to You, I know that I have Your complete attention, even when I know in the back of my mind that You are giving Your complete attention to countless others praying that same moment. You amaze me!
It is humbling to be around You, especially when I know you are listening to me ramble on about one of my projects. I just like Your company, and I can hardly believe that You so willingly give it to someone like me. You know, I have never felt truly alone. You put me to bed each night; when I wake I hear You say, “Good morning.” We talk in the shower, eating cereal, walking in Wal-Mart, working in the garden, even watching a movie. I have never felt crowded by You, just a bit uncomfortable knowing some of the things You’ve heard me think. I know when I disappoint You, yet You never stop loving me. I also know when You are pleased by some small thing I have done. You are all the time encouraging me.
I am in awe! I am in awe not only because You are God, but because You are my God. And Jesus, thanks, I know all this is because of You. 1/22/2008 ts
My God!
“O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you…” Is25.1 ESV
Let me tell You what You mean to me. You are not just the Lord God, You are my God, my very own God, my personal Father. And, though I alone cannot possess You, I have never felt that I was just another somebody among billions of others. When I talk to You, I know that I have Your complete attention, even when I know in the back of my mind that You are giving Your complete attention to countless others praying that same moment. You amaze me!
It is humbling to be around You, especially when I know you are listening to me ramble on about one of my projects. I just like Your company, and I can hardly believe that You so willingly give it to someone like me. You know, I have never felt truly alone. You put me to bed each night; when I wake I hear You say, “Good morning.” We talk in the shower, eating cereal, walking in Wal-Mart, working in the garden, even watching a movie. I have never felt crowded by You, just a bit uncomfortable knowing some of the things You’ve heard me think. I know when I disappoint You, yet You never stop loving me. I also know when You are pleased by some small thing I have done. You are all the time encouraging me.
I am in awe! I am in awe not only because You are God, but because You are my God. And Jesus, thanks, I know all this is because of You. 1/22/2008 ts
Let me tell You what You mean to me. You are not just the Lord God, You are my God, my very own God, my personal Father. And, though I alone cannot possess You, I have never felt that I was just another somebody among billions of others. When I talk to You, I know that I have Your complete attention, even when I know in the back of my mind that You are giving Your complete attention to countless others praying that same moment. You amaze me!
It is humbling to be around You, especially when I know you are listening to me ramble on about one of my projects. I just like Your company, and I can hardly believe that You so willingly give it to someone like me. You know, I have never felt truly alone. You put me to bed each night; when I wake I hear You say, “Good morning.” We talk in the shower, eating cereal, walking in Wal-Mart, working in the garden, even watching a movie. I have never felt crowded by You, just a bit uncomfortable knowing some of the things You’ve heard me think. I know when I disappoint You, yet You never stop loving me. I also know when You are pleased by some small thing I have done. You are all the time encouraging me.
I am in awe! I am in awe not only because You are God, but because You are my God. And Jesus, thanks, I know all this is because of You. 1/22/2008 ts
Monday, January 21, 2008
Take the Stairs
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance…” Ro5.3 ESV
More than what, we say? Well, we rejoice not only in our hope of heaven but also in the processes that bring us to it. Christ is our hope of glory, not just going to glory mind you, but also our transformation into gloriously new creatures. And, it would seem that for the present, sufferings help bring this transformation about, not the suffering itself but the opportunity to endure it with patience. Why is this important? The next verse tells us, “and endurance produces character.” When it comes to the transformation of our character, we might prefer an elevator but God is telling us to take the stairs.
Fundamentally, church is not a place we go, it is something we are. In the same sense, I believe this is true of heaven. It is not just a place we are going; it is something we are becoming. I think much of heaven will be heaven simply because we will be different. 1/21/2008 ts
More than what, we say? Well, we rejoice not only in our hope of heaven but also in the processes that bring us to it. Christ is our hope of glory, not just going to glory mind you, but also our transformation into gloriously new creatures. And, it would seem that for the present, sufferings help bring this transformation about, not the suffering itself but the opportunity to endure it with patience. Why is this important? The next verse tells us, “and endurance produces character.” When it comes to the transformation of our character, we might prefer an elevator but God is telling us to take the stairs.
Fundamentally, church is not a place we go, it is something we are. In the same sense, I believe this is true of heaven. It is not just a place we are going; it is something we are becoming. I think much of heaven will be heaven simply because we will be different. 1/21/2008 ts
Take the Stairs
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance…” Ro5.3 ESV
More than what, we say? Well, we rejoice not only in our hope of heaven but also in the processes that bring us to it. Christ is our hope of glory, not just going to glory mind you, but also our transformation into gloriously new creatures. And, it would seem that for the present, sufferings help bring this transformation about, not the suffering itself but the opportunity to endure it with patience. Why is this important? The next verse tells us, “and endurance produces character.” When it comes to the transformation of our character, we might prefer an elevator but God is telling us to take the stairs.
Fundamentally, church is not a place we go, it is something we are. In the same sense, I believe this is true of heaven. It is not just a place we are going; it is something we are becoming. I think much of heaven will be heaven simply because we will be different. 1/21/2008 ts
More than what, we say? Well, we rejoice not only in our hope of heaven but also in the processes that bring us to it. Christ is our hope of glory, not just going to glory mind you, but also our transformation into gloriously new creatures. And, it would seem that for the present, sufferings help bring this transformation about, not the suffering itself but the opportunity to endure it with patience. Why is this important? The next verse tells us, “and endurance produces character.” When it comes to the transformation of our character, we might prefer an elevator but God is telling us to take the stairs.
Fundamentally, church is not a place we go, it is something we are. In the same sense, I believe this is true of heaven. It is not just a place we are going; it is something we are becoming. I think much of heaven will be heaven simply because we will be different. 1/21/2008 ts
Friday, January 18, 2008
Taking the “good” out of common sense
“Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.” Pr18.1 ESV
It is said that there is safety in numbers. Of course all such statements have conditions that give meaning to them. If someone runs with a crowd of fools, then such numbers may wind up putting them at risk. The wisdom offered to us in the words above, also has conditions. Good ole common sense coming from good ole common folk makes good sense to follow. And, when a person runs off half cocked doing there own thing, they not only break out against all sound judgment, the good fruit of good people will stand in contrast to the bad fruit of a rebellious life and prove it so.
What is tragic beyond measure, is when a society as a whole, gradually abandons its belief that God has spoken and that every word of God is true, then the whole of society breaks out against all sound judgment and its common sense has foolishness as its common denominator. In such a society there is anything but safety in numbers. The good has been taken out of its common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is truly right or wrong. History bears out that when this happens such societies are soon swept away. 1/18/2008 ts
It is said that there is safety in numbers. Of course all such statements have conditions that give meaning to them. If someone runs with a crowd of fools, then such numbers may wind up putting them at risk. The wisdom offered to us in the words above, also has conditions. Good ole common sense coming from good ole common folk makes good sense to follow. And, when a person runs off half cocked doing there own thing, they not only break out against all sound judgment, the good fruit of good people will stand in contrast to the bad fruit of a rebellious life and prove it so.
What is tragic beyond measure, is when a society as a whole, gradually abandons its belief that God has spoken and that every word of God is true, then the whole of society breaks out against all sound judgment and its common sense has foolishness as its common denominator. In such a society there is anything but safety in numbers. The good has been taken out of its common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is truly right or wrong. History bears out that when this happens such societies are soon swept away. 1/18/2008 ts
Taking the “good” out of common sense
“Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.” Pr18.1 ESV
It is said that there is safety in numbers. Of course all such statements have conditions that give meaning to them. If someone runs with a crowd of fools, then such numbers may wind up putting them at risk. The wisdom offered to us in the words above, also has conditions. Good ole common sense coming from good ole common folk makes good sense to follow. And, when a person runs off half cocked doing there own thing, they not only break out against all sound judgment, the good fruit of good people will stand in contrast to the bad fruit of a rebellious life and prove it so.
What is tragic beyond measure, is when a society as a whole, gradually abandons its belief that God has spoken and that every word of God is true, then the whole of society breaks out against all sound judgment and its common sense has foolishness as its common denominator. In such a society there is anything but safety in numbers. The good has been taken out of its common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is truly right or wrong. History bears out that when this happens such societies are soon swept away. 1/18/2008 ts
It is said that there is safety in numbers. Of course all such statements have conditions that give meaning to them. If someone runs with a crowd of fools, then such numbers may wind up putting them at risk. The wisdom offered to us in the words above, also has conditions. Good ole common sense coming from good ole common folk makes good sense to follow. And, when a person runs off half cocked doing there own thing, they not only break out against all sound judgment, the good fruit of good people will stand in contrast to the bad fruit of a rebellious life and prove it so.
What is tragic beyond measure, is when a society as a whole, gradually abandons its belief that God has spoken and that every word of God is true, then the whole of society breaks out against all sound judgment and its common sense has foolishness as its common denominator. In such a society there is anything but safety in numbers. The good has been taken out of its common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is truly right or wrong. History bears out that when this happens such societies are soon swept away. 1/18/2008 ts
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Self Destruction, What grace is all about.
“But in love you have delivered my life from the pit of destruction.” Is38.17 ESV
When God delivers us from destruction this usually means that He is delivering us from us, delivering me from me. A good friend of mine recently confessed, “I'm addicted, Lord, to destruction.” Aren’t we all? And isn’t this why Jesus came?
“Lord its me again and I did it again, that same stupid thing I keep on doing. I feel so foolish asking you to forgive me for the same old sin over and over again.”
What struggling child of God hasn’t prayed a similar prayer? Its downright embarrassing when it happens and its hard to face God in the shame of it all. Yet like Peter we also confess, “Lord where else can we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
And, like Peter, there is nothing reasonable to do but express the godly sorrow of repentance and accept His unending mercy and grace. Of course we can be unreasonable like Judas and express the worldly sorrow of self-pity and hang ourselves in shame. Better, the sorrow of Peter than the sorrow of Judas. Godly sorrow looks at how we have offended God; worldly sorrow is stuck on feeling sorry for oneself.
“Blessed are those who mourn, they will be comforted.” And God is able to deliver all who call upon Him, all who call upon Him in truth. 1/17/2008 ts
When God delivers us from destruction this usually means that He is delivering us from us, delivering me from me. A good friend of mine recently confessed, “I'm addicted, Lord, to destruction.” Aren’t we all? And isn’t this why Jesus came?
“Lord its me again and I did it again, that same stupid thing I keep on doing. I feel so foolish asking you to forgive me for the same old sin over and over again.”
What struggling child of God hasn’t prayed a similar prayer? Its downright embarrassing when it happens and its hard to face God in the shame of it all. Yet like Peter we also confess, “Lord where else can we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
And, like Peter, there is nothing reasonable to do but express the godly sorrow of repentance and accept His unending mercy and grace. Of course we can be unreasonable like Judas and express the worldly sorrow of self-pity and hang ourselves in shame. Better, the sorrow of Peter than the sorrow of Judas. Godly sorrow looks at how we have offended God; worldly sorrow is stuck on feeling sorry for oneself.
“Blessed are those who mourn, they will be comforted.” And God is able to deliver all who call upon Him, all who call upon Him in truth. 1/17/2008 ts
Self Destruction, What grace is all about.
“But in love you have delivered my life from the pit of destruction.” Is38.17 ESV
When God delivers us from destruction this usually means that He is delivering us from us, delivering me from me. A good friend of mine recently confessed, “I'm addicted, Lord, to destruction.” Aren’t we all? And isn’t this why Jesus came?
“Lord its me again and I did it again, that same stupid thing I keep on doing. I feel so foolish asking you to forgive me for the same old sin over and over again.”
What struggling child of God hasn’t prayed a similar prayer? Its downright embarrassing when it happens and its hard to face God in the shame of it all. Yet like Peter we also confess, “Lord where else can we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
And, like Peter, there is nothing reasonable to do but express the godly sorrow of repentance and accept His unending mercy and grace. Of course we can be unreasonable like Judas and express the worldly sorrow of self-pity and hang ourselves in shame. Better, the sorrow of Peter than the sorrow of Judas. Godly sorrow looks at how we have offended God; worldly sorrow is stuck on feeling sorry for oneself.
“Blessed are those who mourn, they will be comforted.” And God is able to deliver all who call upon Him, all who call upon Him in truth. 1/17/2008 ts
When God delivers us from destruction this usually means that He is delivering us from us, delivering me from me. A good friend of mine recently confessed, “I'm addicted, Lord, to destruction.” Aren’t we all? And isn’t this why Jesus came?
“Lord its me again and I did it again, that same stupid thing I keep on doing. I feel so foolish asking you to forgive me for the same old sin over and over again.”
What struggling child of God hasn’t prayed a similar prayer? Its downright embarrassing when it happens and its hard to face God in the shame of it all. Yet like Peter we also confess, “Lord where else can we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
And, like Peter, there is nothing reasonable to do but express the godly sorrow of repentance and accept His unending mercy and grace. Of course we can be unreasonable like Judas and express the worldly sorrow of self-pity and hang ourselves in shame. Better, the sorrow of Peter than the sorrow of Judas. Godly sorrow looks at how we have offended God; worldly sorrow is stuck on feeling sorry for oneself.
“Blessed are those who mourn, they will be comforted.” And God is able to deliver all who call upon Him, all who call upon Him in truth. 1/17/2008 ts
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Not a Philosopher but a Physician
“The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand.” Jo3.35 ESV
It is a great comfort to consider the last thing that Jesus told His disciples, before He went back to the Father. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” While Christ was here, He not only spoke often of His authority, He gave clear demonstrations of it. He forgave sin, cast out demons, healed the sick, and even raised the dead.
Jesus is far more to us than just a good moral teacher. Christians do not look at Christ as a philosopher but as a Physician. He has power over all that ails us. He is the cardiologist of both body and soul, and we look to Him for all manner of healing. Perhaps His greatest healing is to be found in His prayer to the Father the night before He offered Himself, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. Jo17.2-3 1/16/2008 ts
It is a great comfort to consider the last thing that Jesus told His disciples, before He went back to the Father. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” While Christ was here, He not only spoke often of His authority, He gave clear demonstrations of it. He forgave sin, cast out demons, healed the sick, and even raised the dead.
Jesus is far more to us than just a good moral teacher. Christians do not look at Christ as a philosopher but as a Physician. He has power over all that ails us. He is the cardiologist of both body and soul, and we look to Him for all manner of healing. Perhaps His greatest healing is to be found in His prayer to the Father the night before He offered Himself, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. Jo17.2-3 1/16/2008 ts
Not a Philosopher but a Physician
“The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand.” Jo3.35 ESV
It is a great comfort to consider the last thing that Jesus told His disciples, before He went back to the Father. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” While Christ was here, He not only spoke often of His authority, He gave clear demonstrations of it. He forgave sin, cast out demons, healed the sick, and even raised the dead.
Jesus is far more to us than just a good moral teacher. Christians do not look at Christ as a philosopher but as a Physician. He has power over all that ails us. He is the cardiologist of both body and soul, and we look to Him for all manner of healing. Perhaps His greatest healing is to be found in His prayer to the Father the night before He offered Himself, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. Jo17.2-3 1/16/2008 ts
It is a great comfort to consider the last thing that Jesus told His disciples, before He went back to the Father. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” While Christ was here, He not only spoke often of His authority, He gave clear demonstrations of it. He forgave sin, cast out demons, healed the sick, and even raised the dead.
Jesus is far more to us than just a good moral teacher. Christians do not look at Christ as a philosopher but as a Physician. He has power over all that ails us. He is the cardiologist of both body and soul, and we look to Him for all manner of healing. Perhaps His greatest healing is to be found in His prayer to the Father the night before He offered Himself, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. Jo17.2-3 1/16/2008 ts
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Playing the back nine
My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word! Ps119.25 ESV
I often find myself having thoughts of death and dying. I guess such morbid thinking started sometime after I turned forty. I remember the first time it happened. I was on a white water rafting trip with some friends. The sun was setting, the autumn leaves were turning and I think I realized for the first time that I had crossed over and was playing the back nine. I tend to be one of those people who live in the present, so it was a profound and sobering moment for me. It was also one moment where I vividly recall hearing God speak to me. He made His presence known in my thoughts as though He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, “But your going to live forever. You know that, don’t you?”
I confess that my hope in the promise of eternal life is tested in such moments. I love life so! My soul clings to the dust of this dying world and I need God’s assurances that there is more to life than just this life for He has placed eternity in the hearts of men. Jesus told us that men do not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. And what is that word? "Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, the living one. I was dead, but now I am alive forever. I have the keys of death and hell.” The back nine we play here is just the warm up round. 1/15/2008 ts
I often find myself having thoughts of death and dying. I guess such morbid thinking started sometime after I turned forty. I remember the first time it happened. I was on a white water rafting trip with some friends. The sun was setting, the autumn leaves were turning and I think I realized for the first time that I had crossed over and was playing the back nine. I tend to be one of those people who live in the present, so it was a profound and sobering moment for me. It was also one moment where I vividly recall hearing God speak to me. He made His presence known in my thoughts as though He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, “But your going to live forever. You know that, don’t you?”
I confess that my hope in the promise of eternal life is tested in such moments. I love life so! My soul clings to the dust of this dying world and I need God’s assurances that there is more to life than just this life for He has placed eternity in the hearts of men. Jesus told us that men do not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. And what is that word? "Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, the living one. I was dead, but now I am alive forever. I have the keys of death and hell.” The back nine we play here is just the warm up round. 1/15/2008 ts
Playing the back nine
My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word! Ps119.25 ESV
I often find myself having thoughts of death and dying. I guess such morbid thinking started sometime after I turned forty. I remember the first time it happened. I was on a white water rafting trip with some friends. The sun was setting, the autumn leaves were turning and I think I realized for the first time that I had crossed over and was playing the back nine. I tend to be one of those people who live in the present, so it was a profound and sobering moment for me. It was also one moment where I vividly recall hearing God speak to me. He made His presence known in my thoughts as though He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, “But your going to live forever. You know that, don’t you?”
I confess that my hope in the promise of eternal life is tested in such moments. I love life so! My soul clings to the dust of this dying world and I need God’s assurances that there is more to life than just this life for He has placed eternity in the hearts of men. Jesus told us that men do not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. And what is that word? "Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, the living one. I was dead, but now I am alive forever. I have the keys of death and hell.” The back nine we play here is just the warm up round. 1/15/2008 ts
I often find myself having thoughts of death and dying. I guess such morbid thinking started sometime after I turned forty. I remember the first time it happened. I was on a white water rafting trip with some friends. The sun was setting, the autumn leaves were turning and I think I realized for the first time that I had crossed over and was playing the back nine. I tend to be one of those people who live in the present, so it was a profound and sobering moment for me. It was also one moment where I vividly recall hearing God speak to me. He made His presence known in my thoughts as though He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, “But your going to live forever. You know that, don’t you?”
I confess that my hope in the promise of eternal life is tested in such moments. I love life so! My soul clings to the dust of this dying world and I need God’s assurances that there is more to life than just this life for He has placed eternity in the hearts of men. Jesus told us that men do not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. And what is that word? "Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, the living one. I was dead, but now I am alive forever. I have the keys of death and hell.” The back nine we play here is just the warm up round. 1/15/2008 ts
Monday, January 14, 2008
Answering our own prayers?
“When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name.” Lk11.2 ESV
Have we noticed that we often ask God for things, which we ourselves spend considerable time and effort trying to acquire? We ask for daily bread, and we put in our forty hours. We ask for protection and lock the doors at night. We ask God to keep us from temptation and we refuse to keep cookies in the house when trying to lose weight. After all, “God helps those who help themselves,” does He not? Yet, we all know that God often helps those who can’t help themselves.
I think we are not looking for God to take up our responsibilities but to assist us in doing them. Nor are we answering our own prayers. We are asking God to cover those things over which we have no control and to make up what is lacking where frail and feeble efforts may not be sufficient.
In the petition above we are asking God to help us set Him apart in our hearts properly, as Lord of all. We are also asking Him to help us make decisions that show that He is. We are trusting God to help us trust Him. This is why faith is so vital to life with Him. It is also why He is pleased to honor any request that honors His name. 1/14/2008 ts
Have we noticed that we often ask God for things, which we ourselves spend considerable time and effort trying to acquire? We ask for daily bread, and we put in our forty hours. We ask for protection and lock the doors at night. We ask God to keep us from temptation and we refuse to keep cookies in the house when trying to lose weight. After all, “God helps those who help themselves,” does He not? Yet, we all know that God often helps those who can’t help themselves.
I think we are not looking for God to take up our responsibilities but to assist us in doing them. Nor are we answering our own prayers. We are asking God to cover those things over which we have no control and to make up what is lacking where frail and feeble efforts may not be sufficient.
In the petition above we are asking God to help us set Him apart in our hearts properly, as Lord of all. We are also asking Him to help us make decisions that show that He is. We are trusting God to help us trust Him. This is why faith is so vital to life with Him. It is also why He is pleased to honor any request that honors His name. 1/14/2008 ts
Answering our own prayers?
“When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name.” Lk11.2 ESV
Have we noticed that we often ask God for things, which we ourselves spend considerable time and effort trying to acquire? We ask for daily bread, and we put in our forty hours. We ask for protection and lock the doors at night. We ask God to keep us from temptation and we refuse to keep cookies in the house when trying to lose weight. After all, “God helps those who help themselves,” does He not? Yet, we all know that God often helps those who can’t help themselves.
I think we are not looking for God to take up our responsibilities but to assist us in doing them. Nor are we answering our own prayers. We are asking God to cover those things over which we have no control and to make up what is lacking where frail and feeble efforts may not be sufficient.
In the petition above we are asking God to help us set Him apart in our hearts properly, as Lord of all. We are also asking Him to help us make decisions that show that He is. We are trusting God to help us trust Him. This is why faith is so vital to life with Him. It is also why He is pleased to honor any request that honors His name. 1/14/2008 ts
Have we noticed that we often ask God for things, which we ourselves spend considerable time and effort trying to acquire? We ask for daily bread, and we put in our forty hours. We ask for protection and lock the doors at night. We ask God to keep us from temptation and we refuse to keep cookies in the house when trying to lose weight. After all, “God helps those who help themselves,” does He not? Yet, we all know that God often helps those who can’t help themselves.
I think we are not looking for God to take up our responsibilities but to assist us in doing them. Nor are we answering our own prayers. We are asking God to cover those things over which we have no control and to make up what is lacking where frail and feeble efforts may not be sufficient.
In the petition above we are asking God to help us set Him apart in our hearts properly, as Lord of all. We are also asking Him to help us make decisions that show that He is. We are trusting God to help us trust Him. This is why faith is so vital to life with Him. It is also why He is pleased to honor any request that honors His name. 1/14/2008 ts
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Driven or Called
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Phil3.14 ESV
There is a difference between those who minister in response to the call and direction of the Holy Spirit and those who are driven by a desire for personal accomplishment. Driven people live lives in the frenzy of personal ambition and perfectionism and often seek to control everyone around them to do the same. To be one of these people or to be around them can be a miserable affair.
Peace marks the life of one centered on the upward call of God. It is not personal ambition, which should direct our energies, rather the energy found in the humble and gentle Spirit of Christ.
There is a difference between those who minister in response to the call and direction of the Holy Spirit and those who are driven by a desire for personal accomplishment. Driven people live lives in the frenzy of personal ambition and perfectionism and often seek to control everyone around them to do the same. To be one of these people or to be around them can be a miserable affair.
Peace marks the life of one centered on the upward call of God. It is not personal ambition, which should direct our energies, rather the energy found in the humble and gentle Spirit of Christ.
Driven or Called
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Phil3.14 ESV
There is a difference between those who minister in response to the call and direction of the Holy Spirit and those who are driven by a desire for personal accomplishment. Driven people live lives in the frenzy of personal ambition and perfectionism and often seek to control everyone around them to do the same. To be one of these people or to be around them can be a miserable affair.
Peace marks the life of one centered on the upward call of God. It is not personal ambition, which should direct our energies, rather the energy found in the humble and gentle Spirit of Christ.
There is a difference between those who minister in response to the call and direction of the Holy Spirit and those who are driven by a desire for personal accomplishment. Driven people live lives in the frenzy of personal ambition and perfectionism and often seek to control everyone around them to do the same. To be one of these people or to be around them can be a miserable affair.
Peace marks the life of one centered on the upward call of God. It is not personal ambition, which should direct our energies, rather the energy found in the humble and gentle Spirit of Christ.
Friday, January 11, 2008
From and For and Through
“…yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” 1Co8.6 ESV
The interesting change of prepositions in this verse, give to us some profound insights. We are said to be from the Father and for the Father. Just as our vast oceans are the source and destination of all the water on our planet, so God is the source from whom all things come, and all things exist for His advantage and pleasure. God is the beginning and the end.
Now Christ is said to be the instrument of it all. We are told that the Father created the world through Christ, and though we have rebelled it is also Christ who brings us back to the Father. And, while there are mysteries woven in all of this, one thing is abundantly clear, our lives are not our own. As such we owe to God whatever He would ask of us. And, what does He ask, but that we love and serve Him with gladness.
Our purpose then is nothing complicated. We have been given the gift of life so that we might come to God through Christ and enjoy all that He desires to be for us as the Father. God finds His greatest pleasure in us, when we find Him to be our greatest pleasure. A good place to start would be to rise each day with a simple “Thank You,” realizing that we borrow the very breath we use to say it. 1/11/2008 ts
The interesting change of prepositions in this verse, give to us some profound insights. We are said to be from the Father and for the Father. Just as our vast oceans are the source and destination of all the water on our planet, so God is the source from whom all things come, and all things exist for His advantage and pleasure. God is the beginning and the end.
Now Christ is said to be the instrument of it all. We are told that the Father created the world through Christ, and though we have rebelled it is also Christ who brings us back to the Father. And, while there are mysteries woven in all of this, one thing is abundantly clear, our lives are not our own. As such we owe to God whatever He would ask of us. And, what does He ask, but that we love and serve Him with gladness.
Our purpose then is nothing complicated. We have been given the gift of life so that we might come to God through Christ and enjoy all that He desires to be for us as the Father. God finds His greatest pleasure in us, when we find Him to be our greatest pleasure. A good place to start would be to rise each day with a simple “Thank You,” realizing that we borrow the very breath we use to say it. 1/11/2008 ts
From and For and Through
“…yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” 1Co8.6 ESV
The interesting change of prepositions in this verse, give to us some profound insights. We are said to be from the Father and for the Father. Just as our vast oceans are the source and destination of all the water on our planet, so God is the source from whom all things come, and all things exist for His advantage and pleasure. God is the beginning and the end.
Now Christ is said to be the instrument of it all. We are told that the Father created the world through Christ, and though we have rebelled it is also Christ who brings us back to the Father. And, while there are mysteries woven in all of this, one thing is abundantly clear, our lives are not our own. As such we owe to God whatever He would ask of us. And, what does He ask, but that we love and serve Him with gladness.
Our purpose then is nothing complicated. We have been given the gift of life so that we might come to God through Christ and enjoy all that He desires to be for us as the Father. God finds His greatest pleasure in us, when we find Him to be our greatest pleasure. A good place to start would be to rise each day with a simple “Thank You,” realizing that we borrow the very breath we use to say it. 1/11/2008 ts
The interesting change of prepositions in this verse, give to us some profound insights. We are said to be from the Father and for the Father. Just as our vast oceans are the source and destination of all the water on our planet, so God is the source from whom all things come, and all things exist for His advantage and pleasure. God is the beginning and the end.
Now Christ is said to be the instrument of it all. We are told that the Father created the world through Christ, and though we have rebelled it is also Christ who brings us back to the Father. And, while there are mysteries woven in all of this, one thing is abundantly clear, our lives are not our own. As such we owe to God whatever He would ask of us. And, what does He ask, but that we love and serve Him with gladness.
Our purpose then is nothing complicated. We have been given the gift of life so that we might come to God through Christ and enjoy all that He desires to be for us as the Father. God finds His greatest pleasure in us, when we find Him to be our greatest pleasure. A good place to start would be to rise each day with a simple “Thank You,” realizing that we borrow the very breath we use to say it. 1/11/2008 ts
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Against Him or in Him
“…our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1Co7-8 ESV
I put myself through seminary by serving as an editor and research assistant. Once while editing a soon to be published book, I came across a marginal note written by another editor. The note read, “Department of redundancy department,’ and pointing to a redundant statement made by the author. English grammar does not like redundant sentences that are redundant. :-)
The verse above is not so much a redundancy as it is a deliberate reminder of our only hope in judgment. It is Jesus Christ who will see us through the judgment that is coming in the day of Jesus Christ. It is called the day of Jesus Christ, because all mankind will be measured either against Him or in Him. If we stand on our own record, we will be measured against Him and found wanting. But if we stand on His record as the gift of God, we are promised to be blameless in His sight.
Jesus Christ is our attorney; His argument for our defense will be His atonement, His life in us will be the answer to all accusations, and the acquittal for our acceptance. Better to be found in Him than to be measured against Him.
I put myself through seminary by serving as an editor and research assistant. Once while editing a soon to be published book, I came across a marginal note written by another editor. The note read, “Department of redundancy department,’ and pointing to a redundant statement made by the author. English grammar does not like redundant sentences that are redundant. :-)
The verse above is not so much a redundancy as it is a deliberate reminder of our only hope in judgment. It is Jesus Christ who will see us through the judgment that is coming in the day of Jesus Christ. It is called the day of Jesus Christ, because all mankind will be measured either against Him or in Him. If we stand on our own record, we will be measured against Him and found wanting. But if we stand on His record as the gift of God, we are promised to be blameless in His sight.
Jesus Christ is our attorney; His argument for our defense will be His atonement, His life in us will be the answer to all accusations, and the acquittal for our acceptance. Better to be found in Him than to be measured against Him.
Against Him or in Him
“…our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1Co7-8 ESV
I put myself through seminary by serving as an editor and research assistant. Once while editing a soon to be published book, I came across a marginal note written by another editor. The note read, “Department of redundancy department,’ and pointing to a redundant statement made by the author. English grammar does not like redundant sentences that are redundant. :-)
The verse above is not so much a redundancy as it is a deliberate reminder of our only hope in judgment. It is Jesus Christ who will see us through the judgment that is coming in the day of Jesus Christ. It is called the day of Jesus Christ, because all mankind will be measured either against Him or in Him. If we stand on our own record, we will be measured against Him and found wanting. But if we stand on His record as the gift of God, we are promised to be blameless in His sight.
Jesus Christ is our attorney; His argument for our defense will be His atonement, His life in us will be the answer to all accusations, and the acquittal for our acceptance. Better to be found in Him than to be measured against Him.
I put myself through seminary by serving as an editor and research assistant. Once while editing a soon to be published book, I came across a marginal note written by another editor. The note read, “Department of redundancy department,’ and pointing to a redundant statement made by the author. English grammar does not like redundant sentences that are redundant. :-)
The verse above is not so much a redundancy as it is a deliberate reminder of our only hope in judgment. It is Jesus Christ who will see us through the judgment that is coming in the day of Jesus Christ. It is called the day of Jesus Christ, because all mankind will be measured either against Him or in Him. If we stand on our own record, we will be measured against Him and found wanting. But if we stand on His record as the gift of God, we are promised to be blameless in His sight.
Jesus Christ is our attorney; His argument for our defense will be His atonement, His life in us will be the answer to all accusations, and the acquittal for our acceptance. Better to be found in Him than to be measured against Him.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Old Glory—His Glory
“The Lord Is My Banner.” Ex17.15 ESV
Old Glory is one name given to the American flag. Originally, Old Glory was the personal flag; hand made by the mother of sea captain William Driver, and it displayed 24 stars. Driver named it Old Glory proudly declaring his national allegiance as he set out on a trip around the world. This was of course only the beginning of the rich history that surrounds this flag. Eventually Old Glory came to be used of all American Flags.
A banner, or flag can be anything, which is purposely raised up to be seen from a distance. A banner was used as a rallying point for people during an invasion or battle. Like our flag, a banner is a public display of not only national pride but also loyalty to it.
To say that the Lord is our Banner is to rally around His cause. And, the cause of the Kingdom of Heaven is to publicly declare the glory of Christ. The glory of Christ is nothing less than His supreme value as the sacrifice for our sins--the appeasement of God’s justice so we may come back to the Father through Him. Speaking of His death on the cross, Jesus made this astounding claim, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to me.” Christ is truly the flag raised over us.
Old Glory only has value as the symbol of a nation under His Glory. 1/9/2008 ts
Old Glory is one name given to the American flag. Originally, Old Glory was the personal flag; hand made by the mother of sea captain William Driver, and it displayed 24 stars. Driver named it Old Glory proudly declaring his national allegiance as he set out on a trip around the world. This was of course only the beginning of the rich history that surrounds this flag. Eventually Old Glory came to be used of all American Flags.
A banner, or flag can be anything, which is purposely raised up to be seen from a distance. A banner was used as a rallying point for people during an invasion or battle. Like our flag, a banner is a public display of not only national pride but also loyalty to it.
To say that the Lord is our Banner is to rally around His cause. And, the cause of the Kingdom of Heaven is to publicly declare the glory of Christ. The glory of Christ is nothing less than His supreme value as the sacrifice for our sins--the appeasement of God’s justice so we may come back to the Father through Him. Speaking of His death on the cross, Jesus made this astounding claim, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to me.” Christ is truly the flag raised over us.
Old Glory only has value as the symbol of a nation under His Glory. 1/9/2008 ts
Old Glory—His Glory
“The Lord Is My Banner.” Ex17.15 ESV
Old Glory is one name given to the American flag. Originally, Old Glory was the personal flag; hand made by the mother of sea captain William Driver, and it displayed 24 stars. Driver named it Old Glory proudly declaring his national allegiance as he set out on a trip around the world. This was of course only the beginning of the rich history that surrounds this flag. Eventually Old Glory came to be used of all American Flags.
A banner, or flag can be anything, which is purposely raised up to be seen from a distance. A banner was used as a rallying point for people during an invasion or battle. Like our flag, a banner is a public display of not only national pride but also loyalty to it.
To say that the Lord is our Banner is to rally around His cause. And, the cause of the Kingdom of Heaven is to publicly declare the glory of Christ. The glory of Christ is nothing less than His supreme value as the sacrifice for our sins--the appeasement of God’s justice so we may come back to the Father through Him. Speaking of His death on the cross, Jesus made this astounding claim, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to me.” Christ is truly the flag raised over us.
Old Glory only has value as the symbol of a nation under His Glory. 1/9/2008 ts
Old Glory is one name given to the American flag. Originally, Old Glory was the personal flag; hand made by the mother of sea captain William Driver, and it displayed 24 stars. Driver named it Old Glory proudly declaring his national allegiance as he set out on a trip around the world. This was of course only the beginning of the rich history that surrounds this flag. Eventually Old Glory came to be used of all American Flags.
A banner, or flag can be anything, which is purposely raised up to be seen from a distance. A banner was used as a rallying point for people during an invasion or battle. Like our flag, a banner is a public display of not only national pride but also loyalty to it.
To say that the Lord is our Banner is to rally around His cause. And, the cause of the Kingdom of Heaven is to publicly declare the glory of Christ. The glory of Christ is nothing less than His supreme value as the sacrifice for our sins--the appeasement of God’s justice so we may come back to the Father through Him. Speaking of His death on the cross, Jesus made this astounding claim, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to me.” Christ is truly the flag raised over us.
Old Glory only has value as the symbol of a nation under His Glory. 1/9/2008 ts
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
What in a name?
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.” Pr19.10 ESV
In the closing book of the Old Testament God tells us, "My name will be great among the nations." In the first book of the New Testament, Jesus taught us to pray, Our Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name.” This petition comes first because it is to be the first of our concerns. We can be sure that God’s reputation is the first of His concerns. This simply means that when His people call upon His name, He is sure to answer. This should be a double comfort to us. God will not only defend us because He loves us, He will defend us because He loves His name.
As surely as God’s name will be exalted in all the earth, it is to His glory to tenderly care for all who call upon His name. Jesus has been given the name, which is above every name. And what does His name mean, but “Jehovah saves.”
1/8/2008 ts
In the closing book of the Old Testament God tells us, "My name will be great among the nations." In the first book of the New Testament, Jesus taught us to pray, Our Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name.” This petition comes first because it is to be the first of our concerns. We can be sure that God’s reputation is the first of His concerns. This simply means that when His people call upon His name, He is sure to answer. This should be a double comfort to us. God will not only defend us because He loves us, He will defend us because He loves His name.
As surely as God’s name will be exalted in all the earth, it is to His glory to tenderly care for all who call upon His name. Jesus has been given the name, which is above every name. And what does His name mean, but “Jehovah saves.”
1/8/2008 ts
What in a name?
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.” Pr19.10 ESV
In the closing book of the Old Testament God tells us, "My name will be great among the nations." In the first book of the New Testament, Jesus taught us to pray, Our Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name.” This petition comes first because it is to be the first of our concerns. We can be sure that God’s reputation is the first of His concerns. This simply means that when His people call upon His name, He is sure to answer. This should be a double comfort to us. God will not only defend us because He loves us, He will defend us because He loves His name.
As surely as God’s name will be exalted in all the earth, it is to His glory to tenderly care for all who call upon His name. Jesus has been given the name, which is above every name. And what does His name mean, but “Jehovah saves.”
1/8/2008 ts
In the closing book of the Old Testament God tells us, "My name will be great among the nations." In the first book of the New Testament, Jesus taught us to pray, Our Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name.” This petition comes first because it is to be the first of our concerns. We can be sure that God’s reputation is the first of His concerns. This simply means that when His people call upon His name, He is sure to answer. This should be a double comfort to us. God will not only defend us because He loves us, He will defend us because He loves His name.
As surely as God’s name will be exalted in all the earth, it is to His glory to tenderly care for all who call upon His name. Jesus has been given the name, which is above every name. And what does His name mean, but “Jehovah saves.”
1/8/2008 ts
Monday, January 7, 2008
Weather Report
“…but man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upward. “As for me, I would seek God, and to God would I commit my cause.” Job5.7-8 ESV
Life in this place is somewhat predictable. And, what is the expected forecast? Trouble of course! Life is full of problems, difficulties, dilemmas, and snags. You may remember that a law has been formulated to describe it. I am referring of course to Murphy’s Law. Simply stated this adage says, “If anything can go wrong, it will go wrong.”
Now to acknowledge that “man is born to trouble as sparks fly upward,” does not necessarily imply that we are to adopt a negative attitude about each day, just a realistic one. And with it, we may certainly adopt a good attitude about the expected troubles of life. Another adage that I have come to appreciate seeks to encourage such, “Pain and suffering are inevitable, misery is optional.” This is especially true when we consider yet another law set in motion by our creator. “God works all things together for good to those who love Him, to those called according to His purpose.” Rom8.28
While we are at it, here’s another appropriate adage, "There's no such thing as bad weather... only inappropriate clothing." Are we adequately dressed for today’s weather?
Life in this place is somewhat predictable. And, what is the expected forecast? Trouble of course! Life is full of problems, difficulties, dilemmas, and snags. You may remember that a law has been formulated to describe it. I am referring of course to Murphy’s Law. Simply stated this adage says, “If anything can go wrong, it will go wrong.”
Now to acknowledge that “man is born to trouble as sparks fly upward,” does not necessarily imply that we are to adopt a negative attitude about each day, just a realistic one. And with it, we may certainly adopt a good attitude about the expected troubles of life. Another adage that I have come to appreciate seeks to encourage such, “Pain and suffering are inevitable, misery is optional.” This is especially true when we consider yet another law set in motion by our creator. “God works all things together for good to those who love Him, to those called according to His purpose.” Rom8.28
While we are at it, here’s another appropriate adage, "There's no such thing as bad weather... only inappropriate clothing." Are we adequately dressed for today’s weather?
Weather Report
“…but man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upward. “As for me, I would seek God, and to God would I commit my cause.” Job5.7-8 ESV
Life in this place is somewhat predictable. And, what is the expected forecast? Trouble of course! Life is full of problems, difficulties, dilemmas, and snags. You may remember that a law has been formulated to describe it. I am referring of course to Murphy’s Law. Simply stated this adage says, “If anything can go wrong, it will go wrong.”
Now to acknowledge that “man is born to trouble as sparks fly upward,” does not necessarily imply that we are to adopt a negative attitude about each day, just a realistic one. And with it, we may certainly adopt a good attitude about the expected troubles of life. Another adage that I have come to appreciate seeks to encourage such, “Pain and suffering are inevitable, misery is optional.” This is especially true when we consider yet another law set in motion by our creator. “God works all things together for good to those who love Him, to those called according to His purpose.” Rom8.28
While we are at it, here’s another appropriate adage, "There's no such thing as bad weather... only inappropriate clothing." Are we adequately dressed for today’s weather?
Life in this place is somewhat predictable. And, what is the expected forecast? Trouble of course! Life is full of problems, difficulties, dilemmas, and snags. You may remember that a law has been formulated to describe it. I am referring of course to Murphy’s Law. Simply stated this adage says, “If anything can go wrong, it will go wrong.”
Now to acknowledge that “man is born to trouble as sparks fly upward,” does not necessarily imply that we are to adopt a negative attitude about each day, just a realistic one. And with it, we may certainly adopt a good attitude about the expected troubles of life. Another adage that I have come to appreciate seeks to encourage such, “Pain and suffering are inevitable, misery is optional.” This is especially true when we consider yet another law set in motion by our creator. “God works all things together for good to those who love Him, to those called according to His purpose.” Rom8.28
While we are at it, here’s another appropriate adage, "There's no such thing as bad weather... only inappropriate clothing." Are we adequately dressed for today’s weather?
Saturday, January 5, 2008
For anyone at anytime and for anything
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Mt11.28 ES
What burdens your soul? There is no burden that He cannot bear for you. What cares rob you of joy and peace. Cast them on Him for He cares for you. His invitation to rest is for anyone at anytime and for anything. Are you tired? He is rest. Are you weary? He is refreshment. Do you wonder if you measure up? Come to Him and find the full measure of His unassuming grace. Let Christ be your minister. Let Him sing you to sleep in the night and serve you when you wake in the morning. He will fill your cup in the desert sun and cover you with His warmth when it is cold.
Where are you now that He is not with you? Where will you be that He has not already made provision for it? He is Lord of the drought and of the flood. The day is His, the night also. Rest my soul. Rest in His love.
What burdens your soul? There is no burden that He cannot bear for you. What cares rob you of joy and peace. Cast them on Him for He cares for you. His invitation to rest is for anyone at anytime and for anything. Are you tired? He is rest. Are you weary? He is refreshment. Do you wonder if you measure up? Come to Him and find the full measure of His unassuming grace. Let Christ be your minister. Let Him sing you to sleep in the night and serve you when you wake in the morning. He will fill your cup in the desert sun and cover you with His warmth when it is cold.
Where are you now that He is not with you? Where will you be that He has not already made provision for it? He is Lord of the drought and of the flood. The day is His, the night also. Rest my soul. Rest in His love.
For anyone at anytime and for anything
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Mt11.28 ES
What burdens your soul? There is no burden that He cannot bear for you. What cares rob you of joy and peace. Cast them on Him for He cares for you. His invitation to rest is for anyone at anytime and for anything. Are you tired? He is rest. Are you weary? He is refreshment. Do you wonder if you measure up? Come to Him and find the full measure of His unassuming grace. Let Christ be your minister. Let Him sing you to sleep in the night and serve you when you wake in the morning. He will fill your cup in the desert sun and cover you with His warmth when it is cold.
Where are you now that He is not with you? Where will you be that He has not already made provision for it? He is Lord of the drought and of the flood. The day is His, the night also. Rest my soul. Rest in His love.
What burdens your soul? There is no burden that He cannot bear for you. What cares rob you of joy and peace. Cast them on Him for He cares for you. His invitation to rest is for anyone at anytime and for anything. Are you tired? He is rest. Are you weary? He is refreshment. Do you wonder if you measure up? Come to Him and find the full measure of His unassuming grace. Let Christ be your minister. Let Him sing you to sleep in the night and serve you when you wake in the morning. He will fill your cup in the desert sun and cover you with His warmth when it is cold.
Where are you now that He is not with you? Where will you be that He has not already made provision for it? He is Lord of the drought and of the flood. The day is His, the night also. Rest my soul. Rest in His love.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Die with your boots on
“…for this is no place to rest…” Mic2.10 ESV
We are given many reasons to live as pilgrims in this world. “Moth and rust doth corrupt…” is one of them. No matter how hard we try to delay it, nothing in this place will survive. It is foolish to build a mansion in what is clearly a campground, yet most of us tie up our time and money paying the mortgage on our possessions and even our physical health. It is poor economics to invest in this place as though you plan to retire here. This is truly no place to rest.
This is not to say that health, money, and possessions have no value. They certainly do but only in so far as we use them for eternal purposes and to insure that when we actually do retire we will have laid up for ourselves treasure in Heaven. I think it is best then to make plans, as they say, “to die with your boots on,” ‘having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace…”1/4/2008
We are given many reasons to live as pilgrims in this world. “Moth and rust doth corrupt…” is one of them. No matter how hard we try to delay it, nothing in this place will survive. It is foolish to build a mansion in what is clearly a campground, yet most of us tie up our time and money paying the mortgage on our possessions and even our physical health. It is poor economics to invest in this place as though you plan to retire here. This is truly no place to rest.
This is not to say that health, money, and possessions have no value. They certainly do but only in so far as we use them for eternal purposes and to insure that when we actually do retire we will have laid up for ourselves treasure in Heaven. I think it is best then to make plans, as they say, “to die with your boots on,” ‘having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace…”1/4/2008
Die with your boots on
“…for this is no place to rest…” Mic2.10 ESV
We are given many reasons to live as pilgrims in this world. “Moth and rust doth corrupt…” is one of them. No matter how hard we try to delay it, nothing in this place will survive. It is foolish to build a mansion in what is clearly a campground, yet most of us tie up our time and money paying the mortgage on our possessions and even our physical health. It is poor economics to invest in this place as though you plan to retire here. This is truly no place to rest.
This is not to say that health, money, and possessions have no value. They certainly do but only in so far as we use them for eternal purposes and to insure that when we actually do retire we will have laid up for ourselves treasure in Heaven. I think it is best then to make plans, as they say, “to die with your boots on,” ‘having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace…”1/4/2008
We are given many reasons to live as pilgrims in this world. “Moth and rust doth corrupt…” is one of them. No matter how hard we try to delay it, nothing in this place will survive. It is foolish to build a mansion in what is clearly a campground, yet most of us tie up our time and money paying the mortgage on our possessions and even our physical health. It is poor economics to invest in this place as though you plan to retire here. This is truly no place to rest.
This is not to say that health, money, and possessions have no value. They certainly do but only in so far as we use them for eternal purposes and to insure that when we actually do retire we will have laid up for ourselves treasure in Heaven. I think it is best then to make plans, as they say, “to die with your boots on,” ‘having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace…”1/4/2008
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Prime the pump
“And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” Is58.11 ESV
The story is told of a man who was hopelessly lost in the desert. He had run out of water days ago and was about to give up when he came across an old abandoned water pump. He pumped it but no water came out. At the base of the pump, he discovered a tiny bottle of water, and a note under it. The first line was underlined and said, “DON’T DRINK THIS WATER. Use it to prime the pump. Just pour the water into the opening and it will wet the leather washer and seal the pump. Then you'll get all the water you want. Be sure to fill the bottle for the next person who comes along.”
The words of abundance mentioned in the verses above are promised to those who pour themselves out for the hungry and afflicted. When we avail ourselves as a means of blessing to others, we are sure to be blessed ourselves. What is often the case though, is that we must first take what little water we have in order to prime the pump for unseen blessings. Of course it would be foolish to drink for personal use the water God has intended to prime the pump so that others may drink as well. 1/3/2008 ts
The story is told of a man who was hopelessly lost in the desert. He had run out of water days ago and was about to give up when he came across an old abandoned water pump. He pumped it but no water came out. At the base of the pump, he discovered a tiny bottle of water, and a note under it. The first line was underlined and said, “DON’T DRINK THIS WATER. Use it to prime the pump. Just pour the water into the opening and it will wet the leather washer and seal the pump. Then you'll get all the water you want. Be sure to fill the bottle for the next person who comes along.”
The words of abundance mentioned in the verses above are promised to those who pour themselves out for the hungry and afflicted. When we avail ourselves as a means of blessing to others, we are sure to be blessed ourselves. What is often the case though, is that we must first take what little water we have in order to prime the pump for unseen blessings. Of course it would be foolish to drink for personal use the water God has intended to prime the pump so that others may drink as well. 1/3/2008 ts
Prime the pump
“And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” Is58.11 ESV
The story is told of a man who was hopelessly lost in the desert. He had run out of water days ago and was about to give up when he came across an old abandoned water pump. He pumped it but no water came out. At the base of the pump, he discovered a tiny bottle of water, and a note under it. The first line was underlined and said, “DON’T DRINK THIS WATER. Use it to prime the pump. Just pour the water into the opening and it will wet the leather washer and seal the pump. Then you'll get all the water you want. Be sure to fill the bottle for the next person who comes along.”
The words of abundance mentioned in the verses above are promised to those who pour themselves out for the hungry and afflicted. When we avail ourselves as a means of blessing to others, we are sure to be blessed ourselves. What is often the case though, is that we must first take what little water we have in order to prime the pump for unseen blessings. Of course it would be foolish to drink for personal use the water God has intended to prime the pump so that others may drink as well. 1/3/2008 ts
The story is told of a man who was hopelessly lost in the desert. He had run out of water days ago and was about to give up when he came across an old abandoned water pump. He pumped it but no water came out. At the base of the pump, he discovered a tiny bottle of water, and a note under it. The first line was underlined and said, “DON’T DRINK THIS WATER. Use it to prime the pump. Just pour the water into the opening and it will wet the leather washer and seal the pump. Then you'll get all the water you want. Be sure to fill the bottle for the next person who comes along.”
The words of abundance mentioned in the verses above are promised to those who pour themselves out for the hungry and afflicted. When we avail ourselves as a means of blessing to others, we are sure to be blessed ourselves. What is often the case though, is that we must first take what little water we have in order to prime the pump for unseen blessings. Of course it would be foolish to drink for personal use the water God has intended to prime the pump so that others may drink as well. 1/3/2008 ts
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