“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” Pr27.1 ESV
We cannot with any certainty predict the next hour much less the next day. And, while this is true here under the sun, we are still promised a most certain future in Christ Jesus. When the rising and setting of the sun is no longer a measure of time, it is the promise of Christ that we will be somewhere wonderful, alive in the realities of a new heaven and new earth. In light of this, I should think it wise to be humble when speaking of future plans here, yet hopeful and confident when we speak of our own Easter morning there. Does not the Spirit whisper in our hearts, “Wait and see!” 2/29/2008 ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Wait and see!
“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” Pr27.1 ESV
We cannot with any certainty predict the next hour much less the next day. And, while this is true here under the sun, we are still promised a most certain future in Christ Jesus. When the rising and setting of the sun is no longer a measure of time, it is the promise of Christ that we will be somewhere wonderful, alive in the realities of a new heaven and new earth. In light of this, I should think it wise to be humble when speaking of future plans here, yet hopeful and confident when we speak of our own Easter morning there. Does not the Spirit whisper in our hearts, “Wait and see!” 2/29/2008 ts
We cannot with any certainty predict the next hour much less the next day. And, while this is true here under the sun, we are still promised a most certain future in Christ Jesus. When the rising and setting of the sun is no longer a measure of time, it is the promise of Christ that we will be somewhere wonderful, alive in the realities of a new heaven and new earth. In light of this, I should think it wise to be humble when speaking of future plans here, yet hopeful and confident when we speak of our own Easter morning there. Does not the Spirit whisper in our hearts, “Wait and see!” 2/29/2008 ts
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Motives!
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Jo3.16 ESV
When it comes to God’s intentions for us, it does not get any simpler than is expressed in the words above. We may be a suspicious lot, but it is hard to argue about God’s motives when He is willing to give so much to secure our personal happiness. He has found a way to freely pardon our rebellion, adopt us as His children though it cost Him the very life of His own Son. We may not understand the mechanics of it all but I think each of us would do well to personalize the message above instead of generalizing it some generic sense. God loves me! He loves me so much that He gave his only Son, gave Him for me and, if I trust in Him I will not perish but I will have eternal life. I am equally encouraged and captured by the simple fact that God is offering me life not a religion, offering me Himself not a self-improvement program, though we are sure to improve by our acceptance of His gift.
When it comes to God’s intentions for us, it does not get any simpler than is expressed in the words above. We may be a suspicious lot, but it is hard to argue about God’s motives when He is willing to give so much to secure our personal happiness. He has found a way to freely pardon our rebellion, adopt us as His children though it cost Him the very life of His own Son. We may not understand the mechanics of it all but I think each of us would do well to personalize the message above instead of generalizing it some generic sense. God loves me! He loves me so much that He gave his only Son, gave Him for me and, if I trust in Him I will not perish but I will have eternal life. I am equally encouraged and captured by the simple fact that God is offering me life not a religion, offering me Himself not a self-improvement program, though we are sure to improve by our acceptance of His gift.
Motives!
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Jo3.16 ESV
When it comes to God’s intentions for us, it does not get any simpler than is expressed in the words above. We may be a suspicious lot, but it is hard to argue about God’s motives when He is willing to give so much to secure our personal happiness. He has found a way to freely pardon our rebellion, adopt us as His children though it cost Him the very life of His own Son. We may not understand the mechanics of it all but I think each of us would do well to personalize the message above instead of generalizing it some generic sense. God loves me! He loves me so much that He gave his only Son, gave Him for me and, if I trust in Him I will not perish but I will have eternal life. I am equally encouraged and captured by the simple fact that God is offering me life not a religion, offering me Himself not a self-improvement program, though we are sure to improve by our acceptance of His gift.
When it comes to God’s intentions for us, it does not get any simpler than is expressed in the words above. We may be a suspicious lot, but it is hard to argue about God’s motives when He is willing to give so much to secure our personal happiness. He has found a way to freely pardon our rebellion, adopt us as His children though it cost Him the very life of His own Son. We may not understand the mechanics of it all but I think each of us would do well to personalize the message above instead of generalizing it some generic sense. God loves me! He loves me so much that He gave his only Son, gave Him for me and, if I trust in Him I will not perish but I will have eternal life. I am equally encouraged and captured by the simple fact that God is offering me life not a religion, offering me Himself not a self-improvement program, though we are sure to improve by our acceptance of His gift.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Dumpster diving
“So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Rom6.11 ESV
For years I got stuck on the first half of this verse. I still do from time to time. Much of my Christian life could be summed up spending my days trying not to sin. Of course when you are cornered into playing defensive ball, you are losing the game. It has occurred to me in recent years (I am a slow learner) that the old sport adage has application here. The best defense is an aggressive offence and the best way to die to sin is to be alive to God.
When I spend my day living and pursuing that which is truly life, I find I have little time and a diminished desire for lesser things. The satisfied spouse has no reason to look for love elsewhere and when our hearts are satisfied in the superior delights of the Spirit, we will have little appetite for the lesser desires of the flesh. Who would want to dumpster dive, after feasting at the table of the King. 2/27/2008 ts
For years I got stuck on the first half of this verse. I still do from time to time. Much of my Christian life could be summed up spending my days trying not to sin. Of course when you are cornered into playing defensive ball, you are losing the game. It has occurred to me in recent years (I am a slow learner) that the old sport adage has application here. The best defense is an aggressive offence and the best way to die to sin is to be alive to God.
When I spend my day living and pursuing that which is truly life, I find I have little time and a diminished desire for lesser things. The satisfied spouse has no reason to look for love elsewhere and when our hearts are satisfied in the superior delights of the Spirit, we will have little appetite for the lesser desires of the flesh. Who would want to dumpster dive, after feasting at the table of the King. 2/27/2008 ts
Dumpster diving
“So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Rom6.11 ESV
For years I got stuck on the first half of this verse. I still do from time to time. Much of my Christian life could be summed up spending my days trying not to sin. Of course when you are cornered into playing defensive ball, you are losing the game. It has occurred to me in recent years (I am a slow learner) that the old sport adage has application here. The best defense is an aggressive offence and the best way to die to sin is to be alive to God.
When I spend my day living and pursuing that which is truly life, I find I have little time and a diminished desire for lesser things. The satisfied spouse has no reason to look for love elsewhere and when our hearts are satisfied in the superior delights of the Spirit, we will have little appetite for the lesser desires of the flesh. Who would want to dumpster dive, after feasting at the table of the King. 2/27/2008 ts
For years I got stuck on the first half of this verse. I still do from time to time. Much of my Christian life could be summed up spending my days trying not to sin. Of course when you are cornered into playing defensive ball, you are losing the game. It has occurred to me in recent years (I am a slow learner) that the old sport adage has application here. The best defense is an aggressive offence and the best way to die to sin is to be alive to God.
When I spend my day living and pursuing that which is truly life, I find I have little time and a diminished desire for lesser things. The satisfied spouse has no reason to look for love elsewhere and when our hearts are satisfied in the superior delights of the Spirit, we will have little appetite for the lesser desires of the flesh. Who would want to dumpster dive, after feasting at the table of the King. 2/27/2008 ts
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
I’ve something to confess.
Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the Lord! Lam3.40 ESV
Most of us make plans of one kind or another. When these plans involve self-improvement we refer to them as setting goals. Now, whether we a planning a camping trip, to lose weight or trim negative thoughts and words from our life, it is wise to include a review of our progress as a part of the process. Brenda and I often make a list of things that will improve our next camping trip. And, we use bathroom scales.
When it comes to maturity of the soul, God has given us the gift of confessing sin. It is a healthy habit I should think, to come to the end of a day and examine it. The Holy Spirit will assist us in this if we let Him. His goal is not to make us feel guilty about our sins but to lead us to turn from them and do better tomorrow. He will help us to do that too! And, while it is good to do this at the end of each day, it is probably better to do it every hour. Let us then set aside time or times each day as needed, to practice not only confession but the acceptance of His grace for our continued transformation. 2/26/2008 ts
Most of us make plans of one kind or another. When these plans involve self-improvement we refer to them as setting goals. Now, whether we a planning a camping trip, to lose weight or trim negative thoughts and words from our life, it is wise to include a review of our progress as a part of the process. Brenda and I often make a list of things that will improve our next camping trip. And, we use bathroom scales.
When it comes to maturity of the soul, God has given us the gift of confessing sin. It is a healthy habit I should think, to come to the end of a day and examine it. The Holy Spirit will assist us in this if we let Him. His goal is not to make us feel guilty about our sins but to lead us to turn from them and do better tomorrow. He will help us to do that too! And, while it is good to do this at the end of each day, it is probably better to do it every hour. Let us then set aside time or times each day as needed, to practice not only confession but the acceptance of His grace for our continued transformation. 2/26/2008 ts
I’ve something to confess.
Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the Lord! Lam3.40 ESV
Most of us make plans of one kind or another. When these plans involve self-improvement we refer to them as setting goals. Now, whether we a planning a camping trip, to lose weight or trim negative thoughts and words from our life, it is wise to include a review of our progress as a part of the process. Brenda and I often make a list of things that will improve our next camping trip. And, we use bathroom scales.
When it comes to maturity of the soul, God has given us the gift of confessing sin. It is a healthy habit I should think, to come to the end of a day and examine it. The Holy Spirit will assist us in this if we let Him. His goal is not to make us feel guilty about our sins but to lead us to turn from them and do better tomorrow. He will help us to do that too! And, while it is good to do this at the end of each day, it is probably better to do it every hour. Let us then set aside time or times each day as needed, to practice not only confession but the acceptance of His grace for our continued transformation. 2/26/2008 ts
Most of us make plans of one kind or another. When these plans involve self-improvement we refer to them as setting goals. Now, whether we a planning a camping trip, to lose weight or trim negative thoughts and words from our life, it is wise to include a review of our progress as a part of the process. Brenda and I often make a list of things that will improve our next camping trip. And, we use bathroom scales.
When it comes to maturity of the soul, God has given us the gift of confessing sin. It is a healthy habit I should think, to come to the end of a day and examine it. The Holy Spirit will assist us in this if we let Him. His goal is not to make us feel guilty about our sins but to lead us to turn from them and do better tomorrow. He will help us to do that too! And, while it is good to do this at the end of each day, it is probably better to do it every hour. Let us then set aside time or times each day as needed, to practice not only confession but the acceptance of His grace for our continued transformation. 2/26/2008 ts
Monday, February 25, 2008
Dealing with black bears and devils
“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Ja4.7
I have read that the best way to deal with temptation isn’t to resist it but to redirect ones thoughts toward something wholesome. The idea being that when you resist temptation, you are thinking about it and the more you think about it the harder the temptation becomes. Now I believe this is true and the advice good, so how do I understand these words to resist the devil? Well for one thing, there is a difference in resisting a person and resisting a desire.
Brenda and I trek the Smokey Mountains at least once a year. Now we have come across black bears in the Smokies, so we have formulated a plan for dealing with one if we are ever attacked. The advice used to be to lay on the ground, put your head between your knees and ride out the attack as best you can, hoping, the bear will tire of batting and biting you. The consensus now is that if you do this you might as well kiss your butt goodbye, because when a black bear attacks you, he is planning on eating you. The advice now is to turn with a vengeance on the bear, and fight back with everything you have. Most of the time the minute the bear realizes that you are no easy meal, and more trouble than its worth, he will flee, especially if you happen to carry a flare gun and an ice ax and there are two of you.
When the devil shows up, ignore his temptations, but turn on him with a vengeance. Stab him with the sword of Scripture, laugh, mock and ridicule him and He will show himself the coward that he is. By the way, there are always at least two of us in the fight against devils. 2/25/2008 ts
I have read that the best way to deal with temptation isn’t to resist it but to redirect ones thoughts toward something wholesome. The idea being that when you resist temptation, you are thinking about it and the more you think about it the harder the temptation becomes. Now I believe this is true and the advice good, so how do I understand these words to resist the devil? Well for one thing, there is a difference in resisting a person and resisting a desire.
Brenda and I trek the Smokey Mountains at least once a year. Now we have come across black bears in the Smokies, so we have formulated a plan for dealing with one if we are ever attacked. The advice used to be to lay on the ground, put your head between your knees and ride out the attack as best you can, hoping, the bear will tire of batting and biting you. The consensus now is that if you do this you might as well kiss your butt goodbye, because when a black bear attacks you, he is planning on eating you. The advice now is to turn with a vengeance on the bear, and fight back with everything you have. Most of the time the minute the bear realizes that you are no easy meal, and more trouble than its worth, he will flee, especially if you happen to carry a flare gun and an ice ax and there are two of you.
When the devil shows up, ignore his temptations, but turn on him with a vengeance. Stab him with the sword of Scripture, laugh, mock and ridicule him and He will show himself the coward that he is. By the way, there are always at least two of us in the fight against devils. 2/25/2008 ts
Dealing with black bears and devils
“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Ja4.7
I have read that the best way to deal with temptation isn’t to resist it but to redirect ones thoughts toward something wholesome. The idea being that when you resist temptation, you are thinking about it and the more you think about it the harder the temptation becomes. Now I believe this is true and the advice good, so how do I understand these words to resist the devil? Well for one thing, there is a difference in resisting a person and resisting a desire.
Brenda and I trek the Smokey Mountains at least once a year. Now we have come across black bears in the Smokies, so we have formulated a plan for dealing with one if we are ever attacked. The advice used to be to lay on the ground, put your head between your knees and ride out the attack as best you can, hoping, the bear will tire of batting and biting you. The consensus now is that if you do this you might as well kiss your butt goodbye, because when a black bear attacks you, he is planning on eating you. The advice now is to turn with a vengeance on the bear, and fight back with everything you have. Most of the time the minute the bear realizes that you are no easy meal, and more trouble than its worth, he will flee, especially if you happen to carry a flare gun and an ice ax and there are two of you.
When the devil shows up, ignore his temptations, but turn on him with a vengeance. Stab him with the sword of Scripture, laugh, mock and ridicule him and He will show himself the coward that he is. By the way, there are always at least two of us in the fight against devils. 2/25/2008 ts
I have read that the best way to deal with temptation isn’t to resist it but to redirect ones thoughts toward something wholesome. The idea being that when you resist temptation, you are thinking about it and the more you think about it the harder the temptation becomes. Now I believe this is true and the advice good, so how do I understand these words to resist the devil? Well for one thing, there is a difference in resisting a person and resisting a desire.
Brenda and I trek the Smokey Mountains at least once a year. Now we have come across black bears in the Smokies, so we have formulated a plan for dealing with one if we are ever attacked. The advice used to be to lay on the ground, put your head between your knees and ride out the attack as best you can, hoping, the bear will tire of batting and biting you. The consensus now is that if you do this you might as well kiss your butt goodbye, because when a black bear attacks you, he is planning on eating you. The advice now is to turn with a vengeance on the bear, and fight back with everything you have. Most of the time the minute the bear realizes that you are no easy meal, and more trouble than its worth, he will flee, especially if you happen to carry a flare gun and an ice ax and there are two of you.
When the devil shows up, ignore his temptations, but turn on him with a vengeance. Stab him with the sword of Scripture, laugh, mock and ridicule him and He will show himself the coward that he is. By the way, there are always at least two of us in the fight against devils. 2/25/2008 ts
Friday, February 22, 2008
Dating Superman!
“I am the Lord who sanctifies you.” Lev20.8 ESV
I remember when Superman decided to court Lois Lane. He used his super powers to fly all over the world, and put together the perfect date. He brought flowers picked fresh from the rain forest, and a sparkling diamond from crushed coal in his powerful hands. I was impressed!
Christ has decided to pursue us as a young man pursues a woman. It is His goal to win over our hearts and so He calls us every hour, and writes us everyday, and leaves messages of love for us to find. He is our Superman and loves us with His super powers. All of spring is the bouquet He brings, the fragrance of every flower, His cologne and song of every bird, His love song. Every event in every day is His personal arrangement to meet with us, to secret us away into the joy of His love. No detail escapes His attention, and no good thing does He withhold from His intended bride.
When I consider the energies I spend each day seeking after Christ, I am humbled by the simple truth that it is Christ who is in fact, seeking me. Our interest in Him is principally the result of His interest in us. Thus it is the Lord who sets us apart as His radiant bride. And that, is what all that sanctification stuff is all about. 2/21/2008 ts
I remember when Superman decided to court Lois Lane. He used his super powers to fly all over the world, and put together the perfect date. He brought flowers picked fresh from the rain forest, and a sparkling diamond from crushed coal in his powerful hands. I was impressed!
Christ has decided to pursue us as a young man pursues a woman. It is His goal to win over our hearts and so He calls us every hour, and writes us everyday, and leaves messages of love for us to find. He is our Superman and loves us with His super powers. All of spring is the bouquet He brings, the fragrance of every flower, His cologne and song of every bird, His love song. Every event in every day is His personal arrangement to meet with us, to secret us away into the joy of His love. No detail escapes His attention, and no good thing does He withhold from His intended bride.
When I consider the energies I spend each day seeking after Christ, I am humbled by the simple truth that it is Christ who is in fact, seeking me. Our interest in Him is principally the result of His interest in us. Thus it is the Lord who sets us apart as His radiant bride. And that, is what all that sanctification stuff is all about. 2/21/2008 ts
Dating Superman!
“I am the Lord who sanctifies you.” Lev20.8 ESV
I remember when Superman decided to court Lois Lane. He used his super powers to fly all over the world, and put together the perfect date. He brought flowers picked fresh from the rain forest, and a sparkling diamond from crushed coal in his powerful hands. I was impressed!
Christ has decided to pursue us as a young man pursues a woman. It is His goal to win over our hearts and so He calls us every hour, and writes us everyday, and leaves messages of love for us to find. He is our Superman and loves us with His super powers. All of spring is the bouquet He brings, the fragrance of every flower, His cologne and song of every bird, His love song. Every event in every day is His personal arrangement to meet with us, to secret us away into the joy of His love. No detail escapes His attention, and no good thing does He withhold from His intended bride.
When I consider the energies I spend each day seeking after Christ, I am humbled by the simple truth that it is Christ who is in fact, seeking me. Our interest in Him is principally the result of His interest in us. Thus it is the Lord who sets us apart as His radiant bride. And that, is what all that sanctification stuff is all about. 2/21/2008 ts
I remember when Superman decided to court Lois Lane. He used his super powers to fly all over the world, and put together the perfect date. He brought flowers picked fresh from the rain forest, and a sparkling diamond from crushed coal in his powerful hands. I was impressed!
Christ has decided to pursue us as a young man pursues a woman. It is His goal to win over our hearts and so He calls us every hour, and writes us everyday, and leaves messages of love for us to find. He is our Superman and loves us with His super powers. All of spring is the bouquet He brings, the fragrance of every flower, His cologne and song of every bird, His love song. Every event in every day is His personal arrangement to meet with us, to secret us away into the joy of His love. No detail escapes His attention, and no good thing does He withhold from His intended bride.
When I consider the energies I spend each day seeking after Christ, I am humbled by the simple truth that it is Christ who is in fact, seeking me. Our interest in Him is principally the result of His interest in us. Thus it is the Lord who sets us apart as His radiant bride. And that, is what all that sanctification stuff is all about. 2/21/2008 ts
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Giving Birth
"Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied". Is53.11 ESV
I remember, though not as Brenda remembers I’m sure, the birth of each of our children. I was but a spectator, Brenda was, shall we say, personally involved in what we appropriately call “labor.” And labor it was. I remember thinking, as each wave of pain etched their lines across her face, how brave she was, and that I would be scared to death if I were in her place. I am still amazed that as soon as each child was delivered, Brenda would eagerly and tenderly want to hold, what a few minutes earlier, had caused her so much pain. She saw her travail and was satisfied. Great pain produced great joy. I would dare say that she would name these moments as some of the happiest in her life.
I am sure that when God designed the process of giving birth He was thinking about the labor of His Son at Calvary. I am equally sure that Christ looks at each of us with the same tender affections of the mother who has given birth. His great pain has produced eternal joy. We are the reward and joy of Christ. Let us, as best we may, cause Him no more pain. 2/20/2008 ts
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I remember, though not as Brenda remembers I’m sure, the birth of each of our children. I was but a spectator, Brenda was, shall we say, personally involved in what we appropriately call “labor.” And labor it was. I remember thinking, as each wave of pain etched their lines across her face, how brave she was, and that I would be scared to death if I were in her place. I am still amazed that as soon as each child was delivered, Brenda would eagerly and tenderly want to hold, what a few minutes earlier, had caused her so much pain. She saw her travail and was satisfied. Great pain produced great joy. I would dare say that she would name these moments as some of the happiest in her life.
I am sure that when God designed the process of giving birth He was thinking about the labor of His Son at Calvary. I am equally sure that Christ looks at each of us with the same tender affections of the mother who has given birth. His great pain has produced eternal joy. We are the reward and joy of Christ. Let us, as best we may, cause Him no more pain. 2/20/2008 ts
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Giving Birth
"Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied". Is53.11 ESV
I remember, though not as Brenda remembers I’m sure, the birth of each of our children. I was but a spectator, Brenda was, shall we say, personally involved in what we appropriately call “labor.” And labor it was. I remember thinking, as each wave of pain etched their lines across her face, how brave she was, and that I would be scared to death if I were in her place. I am still amazed that as soon as each child was delivered, Brenda would eagerly and tenderly want to hold, what a few minutes earlier, had caused her so much pain. She saw her travail and was satisfied. Great pain produced great joy. I would dare say that she would name these moments as some of the happiest in her life.
I am sure that when God designed the process of giving birth He was thinking about the labor of His Son at Calvary. I am equally sure that Christ looks at each of us with the same tender affections of the mother who has given birth. His great pain has produced eternal joy. We are the reward and joy of Christ. Let us, as best we may, cause Him no more pain. 2/20/2008 ts
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I remember, though not as Brenda remembers I’m sure, the birth of each of our children. I was but a spectator, Brenda was, shall we say, personally involved in what we appropriately call “labor.” And labor it was. I remember thinking, as each wave of pain etched their lines across her face, how brave she was, and that I would be scared to death if I were in her place. I am still amazed that as soon as each child was delivered, Brenda would eagerly and tenderly want to hold, what a few minutes earlier, had caused her so much pain. She saw her travail and was satisfied. Great pain produced great joy. I would dare say that she would name these moments as some of the happiest in her life.
I am sure that when God designed the process of giving birth He was thinking about the labor of His Son at Calvary. I am equally sure that Christ looks at each of us with the same tender affections of the mother who has given birth. His great pain has produced eternal joy. We are the reward and joy of Christ. Let us, as best we may, cause Him no more pain. 2/20/2008 ts
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Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Wisdom is transformation not information
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Pr2.6 ESV
Wisdom is more than knowing what is best, it is a heart inclined to choose it. If I lean a staff to the right, its inclination will be to fall to the right. God would incline the desires of our heart so that we lean in the direction of all that is wise.
When we ask God for wisdom, we should then be prepared for a little heart surgery. If His goal is to make us like Christ, who is the wisdom of God, it only makes sense that when He imparts wisdom, He will be working our transformation not just giving out information. This means that when I ask God for wisdom, say, on the best way to love someone, I should expect God to provide opportunities to teach and train my heart for just that. We may ask for wisdom and in the back of our mind we are thinking that God is going to give us some needed information. We want wisdom for a particular situation but God’s ultimate goal is to make us wise. 2/19/2008 ts
Wisdom is more than knowing what is best, it is a heart inclined to choose it. If I lean a staff to the right, its inclination will be to fall to the right. God would incline the desires of our heart so that we lean in the direction of all that is wise.
When we ask God for wisdom, we should then be prepared for a little heart surgery. If His goal is to make us like Christ, who is the wisdom of God, it only makes sense that when He imparts wisdom, He will be working our transformation not just giving out information. This means that when I ask God for wisdom, say, on the best way to love someone, I should expect God to provide opportunities to teach and train my heart for just that. We may ask for wisdom and in the back of our mind we are thinking that God is going to give us some needed information. We want wisdom for a particular situation but God’s ultimate goal is to make us wise. 2/19/2008 ts
Wisdom is transformation not information
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Pr2.6 ESV
Wisdom is more than knowing what is best, it is a heart inclined to choose it. If I lean a staff to the right, its inclination will be to fall to the right. God would incline the desires of our heart so that we lean in the direction of all that is wise.
When we ask God for wisdom, we should then be prepared for a little heart surgery. If His goal is to make us like Christ, who is the wisdom of God, it only makes sense that when He imparts wisdom, He will be working our transformation not just giving out information. This means that when I ask God for wisdom, say, on the best way to love someone, I should expect God to provide opportunities to teach and train my heart for just that. We may ask for wisdom and in the back of our mind we are thinking that God is going to give us some needed information. We want wisdom for a particular situation but God’s ultimate goal is to make us wise. 2/19/2008 ts
Wisdom is more than knowing what is best, it is a heart inclined to choose it. If I lean a staff to the right, its inclination will be to fall to the right. God would incline the desires of our heart so that we lean in the direction of all that is wise.
When we ask God for wisdom, we should then be prepared for a little heart surgery. If His goal is to make us like Christ, who is the wisdom of God, it only makes sense that when He imparts wisdom, He will be working our transformation not just giving out information. This means that when I ask God for wisdom, say, on the best way to love someone, I should expect God to provide opportunities to teach and train my heart for just that. We may ask for wisdom and in the back of our mind we are thinking that God is going to give us some needed information. We want wisdom for a particular situation but God’s ultimate goal is to make us wise. 2/19/2008 ts
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
This too shall pass!
“Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Ps30.5 ESV
There is an old story with dubious origin but told around the world. There are a number of variations but the gist involves a king who was searching for an answer to times of sorrow and despair, one truth that would ease all suffering." The Hebrew version mentions that a ring was given to King Solomon with the inscription "gam zeh ya’avor,” and that when the king found himself restless or depressed or sorrowful he was to look at the ring and remind himself of its truth– "this too shall pass." Buddhist even have a mantra built around this idea and seek to find inner peace by acknowledging the impermanence of life.
There are many seasons in life. Life itself is a season. The present state of affairs is temporal and no doubt “this too will pass.”
But pass into what, we may ask? There is little comfort if my bad season passes from bad into one that is worse. Our hope in Christ is that our present sufferings are not to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed to us--that life indeed is temporal but because of Christ our present sufferings will pass into unchangeable goodness. It is true that in this life, all shall pass, and as one season passes into another, we may find real comfort in the knowledge that at the day of Christ, we will enter into the joy of the Lord that shall never pass. 2/18/2008 ts
There is an old story with dubious origin but told around the world. There are a number of variations but the gist involves a king who was searching for an answer to times of sorrow and despair, one truth that would ease all suffering." The Hebrew version mentions that a ring was given to King Solomon with the inscription "gam zeh ya’avor,” and that when the king found himself restless or depressed or sorrowful he was to look at the ring and remind himself of its truth– "this too shall pass." Buddhist even have a mantra built around this idea and seek to find inner peace by acknowledging the impermanence of life.
There are many seasons in life. Life itself is a season. The present state of affairs is temporal and no doubt “this too will pass.”
But pass into what, we may ask? There is little comfort if my bad season passes from bad into one that is worse. Our hope in Christ is that our present sufferings are not to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed to us--that life indeed is temporal but because of Christ our present sufferings will pass into unchangeable goodness. It is true that in this life, all shall pass, and as one season passes into another, we may find real comfort in the knowledge that at the day of Christ, we will enter into the joy of the Lord that shall never pass. 2/18/2008 ts
This too shall pass!
“Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Ps30.5 ESV
There is an old story with dubious origin but told around the world. There are a number of variations but the gist involves a king who was searching for an answer to times of sorrow and despair, one truth that would ease all suffering." The Hebrew version mentions that a ring was given to King Solomon with the inscription "gam zeh ya’avor,” and that when the king found himself restless or depressed or sorrowful he was to look at the ring and remind himself of its truth– "this too shall pass." Buddhist even have a mantra built around this idea and seek to find inner peace by acknowledging the impermanence of life.
There are many seasons in life. Life itself is a season. The present state of affairs is temporal and no doubt “this too will pass.”
But pass into what, we may ask? There is little comfort if my bad season passes from bad into one that is worse. Our hope in Christ is that our present sufferings are not to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed to us--that life indeed is temporal but because of Christ our present sufferings will pass into unchangeable goodness. It is true that in this life, all shall pass, and as one season passes into another, we may find real comfort in the knowledge that at the day of Christ, we will enter into the joy of the Lord that shall never pass. 2/18/2008 ts
There is an old story with dubious origin but told around the world. There are a number of variations but the gist involves a king who was searching for an answer to times of sorrow and despair, one truth that would ease all suffering." The Hebrew version mentions that a ring was given to King Solomon with the inscription "gam zeh ya’avor,” and that when the king found himself restless or depressed or sorrowful he was to look at the ring and remind himself of its truth– "this too shall pass." Buddhist even have a mantra built around this idea and seek to find inner peace by acknowledging the impermanence of life.
There are many seasons in life. Life itself is a season. The present state of affairs is temporal and no doubt “this too will pass.”
But pass into what, we may ask? There is little comfort if my bad season passes from bad into one that is worse. Our hope in Christ is that our present sufferings are not to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed to us--that life indeed is temporal but because of Christ our present sufferings will pass into unchangeable goodness. It is true that in this life, all shall pass, and as one season passes into another, we may find real comfort in the knowledge that at the day of Christ, we will enter into the joy of the Lord that shall never pass. 2/18/2008 ts
Monday, February 18, 2008
In love
“Your name is oil poured out.” SS1.3 ESV
The celebrations of love are as a field of flowers in spring and the heart in love is always blooming with expressions of it. We may be in love with God as we may be in love with the man or woman of our dreams. God, after all, was the first who compared His love for us as husband to bride. We are called to love God with all of our heart. We love Him not only as an act of our will, but with the inclinations of our highest affections. We are in love with Him, staggered and captured by His beauty. His name is oil poured out.
Yesterday, I sent my daughters this wonderful declaration of divine romance. “A woman’s heart should be so lost in God, that a man needs to seek Him in order to find her.” So it should be for us all. 2/16/2008 ts
The celebrations of love are as a field of flowers in spring and the heart in love is always blooming with expressions of it. We may be in love with God as we may be in love with the man or woman of our dreams. God, after all, was the first who compared His love for us as husband to bride. We are called to love God with all of our heart. We love Him not only as an act of our will, but with the inclinations of our highest affections. We are in love with Him, staggered and captured by His beauty. His name is oil poured out.
Yesterday, I sent my daughters this wonderful declaration of divine romance. “A woman’s heart should be so lost in God, that a man needs to seek Him in order to find her.” So it should be for us all. 2/16/2008 ts
In love
“Your name is oil poured out.” SS1.3 ESV
The celebrations of love are as a field of flowers in spring and the heart in love is always blooming with expressions of it. We may be in love with God as we may be in love with the man or woman of our dreams. God, after all, was the first who compared His love for us as husband to bride. We are called to love God with all of our heart. We love Him not only as an act of our will, but with the inclinations of our highest affections. We are in love with Him, staggered and captured by His beauty. His name is oil poured out.
Yesterday, I sent my daughters this wonderful declaration of divine romance. “A woman’s heart should be so lost in God, that a man needs to seek Him in order to find her.” So it should be for us all. 2/16/2008 ts
The celebrations of love are as a field of flowers in spring and the heart in love is always blooming with expressions of it. We may be in love with God as we may be in love with the man or woman of our dreams. God, after all, was the first who compared His love for us as husband to bride. We are called to love God with all of our heart. We love Him not only as an act of our will, but with the inclinations of our highest affections. We are in love with Him, staggered and captured by His beauty. His name is oil poured out.
Yesterday, I sent my daughters this wonderful declaration of divine romance. “A woman’s heart should be so lost in God, that a man needs to seek Him in order to find her.” So it should be for us all. 2/16/2008 ts
Friday, February 15, 2008
Blue eyes
Who can say, “I have made my heart pure”? Pr20.9 ESV
Jesus tells us that the pure in heart will see God. We can be sure that it will be God who has made our hearts pure. We may cooperate with Him in the process just as a child helps his father build a tree house. In the end, everyone knows who actually built it, but the Father humbly and patiently shows and asks the child to do this and that. And, when the child becomes a man and builds a tree house with his child, all the skill will have come from his own father.
All the good that is in us is from God. All the good that we become is likewise because the Holy Spirit is always working in us. I think we will know when our heart is pure, just as a person knows if they have blue eyes. But who can say, “I have made my eyes blue.” 2/15/2008 ts
Jesus tells us that the pure in heart will see God. We can be sure that it will be God who has made our hearts pure. We may cooperate with Him in the process just as a child helps his father build a tree house. In the end, everyone knows who actually built it, but the Father humbly and patiently shows and asks the child to do this and that. And, when the child becomes a man and builds a tree house with his child, all the skill will have come from his own father.
All the good that is in us is from God. All the good that we become is likewise because the Holy Spirit is always working in us. I think we will know when our heart is pure, just as a person knows if they have blue eyes. But who can say, “I have made my eyes blue.” 2/15/2008 ts
Blue eyes
Who can say, “I have made my heart pure”? Pr20.9 ESV
Jesus tells us that the pure in heart will see God. We can be sure that it will be God who has made our hearts pure. We may cooperate with Him in the process just as a child helps his father build a tree house. In the end, everyone knows who actually built it, but the Father humbly and patiently shows and asks the child to do this and that. And, when the child becomes a man and builds a tree house with his child, all the skill will have come from his own father.
All the good that is in us is from God. All the good that we become is likewise because the Holy Spirit is always working in us. I think we will know when our heart is pure, just as a person knows if they have blue eyes. But who can say, “I have made my eyes blue.” 2/15/2008 ts
Jesus tells us that the pure in heart will see God. We can be sure that it will be God who has made our hearts pure. We may cooperate with Him in the process just as a child helps his father build a tree house. In the end, everyone knows who actually built it, but the Father humbly and patiently shows and asks the child to do this and that. And, when the child becomes a man and builds a tree house with his child, all the skill will have come from his own father.
All the good that is in us is from God. All the good that we become is likewise because the Holy Spirit is always working in us. I think we will know when our heart is pure, just as a person knows if they have blue eyes. But who can say, “I have made my eyes blue.” 2/15/2008 ts
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Little priest
“Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Mt3.15 ESV
This famous reply of Christ to the Baptist, explains why the perfect Son of God had asked to undergo a baptism of repentance. So why would a sinless person do something designed for sinners. Well, for one thing, Christ is doing perfectly on our behalf, what our feeble efforts are unable to do. Even our tears of repentance need to be washed in His blood. Christ not only atones for our sins, He accomplishes with perfection all that God requires of us. It is both His death and perfect life that are needed for us to be made right with God.
But Christ is also teaching us, like the “us” in the verse above, that there are some things that we can do for others that they perhaps are not doing for themselves. It came as a surprise to me the first time I realized that the plurals in the Lord’s Prayer, “us” and “our” meant that when I prayed, “Forgive “us, our” trespasses,” I was able not only to ask forgiveness for myself but for others, perhaps when they have failed to ask it for themselves. I can ask for protection and daily bread not only for myself but also for people who are not looking to God for these things. In this way, we become little priest whose service for others is perfectly expressed in Jesus who is our High Priest. 2/14/2008 ts
This famous reply of Christ to the Baptist, explains why the perfect Son of God had asked to undergo a baptism of repentance. So why would a sinless person do something designed for sinners. Well, for one thing, Christ is doing perfectly on our behalf, what our feeble efforts are unable to do. Even our tears of repentance need to be washed in His blood. Christ not only atones for our sins, He accomplishes with perfection all that God requires of us. It is both His death and perfect life that are needed for us to be made right with God.
But Christ is also teaching us, like the “us” in the verse above, that there are some things that we can do for others that they perhaps are not doing for themselves. It came as a surprise to me the first time I realized that the plurals in the Lord’s Prayer, “us” and “our” meant that when I prayed, “Forgive “us, our” trespasses,” I was able not only to ask forgiveness for myself but for others, perhaps when they have failed to ask it for themselves. I can ask for protection and daily bread not only for myself but also for people who are not looking to God for these things. In this way, we become little priest whose service for others is perfectly expressed in Jesus who is our High Priest. 2/14/2008 ts
Little priest
“Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Mt3.15 ESV
This famous reply of Christ to the Baptist, explains why the perfect Son of God had asked to undergo a baptism of repentance. So why would a sinless person do something designed for sinners. Well, for one thing, Christ is doing perfectly on our behalf, what our feeble efforts are unable to do. Even our tears of repentance need to be washed in His blood. Christ not only atones for our sins, He accomplishes with perfection all that God requires of us. It is both His death and perfect life that are needed for us to be made right with God.
But Christ is also teaching us, like the “us” in the verse above, that there are some things that we can do for others that they perhaps are not doing for themselves. It came as a surprise to me the first time I realized that the plurals in the Lord’s Prayer, “us” and “our” meant that when I prayed, “Forgive “us, our” trespasses,” I was able not only to ask forgiveness for myself but for others, perhaps when they have failed to ask it for themselves. I can ask for protection and daily bread not only for myself but also for people who are not looking to God for these things. In this way, we become little priest whose service for others is perfectly expressed in Jesus who is our High Priest. 2/14/2008 ts
This famous reply of Christ to the Baptist, explains why the perfect Son of God had asked to undergo a baptism of repentance. So why would a sinless person do something designed for sinners. Well, for one thing, Christ is doing perfectly on our behalf, what our feeble efforts are unable to do. Even our tears of repentance need to be washed in His blood. Christ not only atones for our sins, He accomplishes with perfection all that God requires of us. It is both His death and perfect life that are needed for us to be made right with God.
But Christ is also teaching us, like the “us” in the verse above, that there are some things that we can do for others that they perhaps are not doing for themselves. It came as a surprise to me the first time I realized that the plurals in the Lord’s Prayer, “us” and “our” meant that when I prayed, “Forgive “us, our” trespasses,” I was able not only to ask forgiveness for myself but for others, perhaps when they have failed to ask it for themselves. I can ask for protection and daily bread not only for myself but also for people who are not looking to God for these things. In this way, we become little priest whose service for others is perfectly expressed in Jesus who is our High Priest. 2/14/2008 ts
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
That special someone
“They shall be mine, says the Lord of hosts…” Mal3.17
I find great pleasure not only when I introduce Brenda as my wife but just thinking about the fact that she is mine. She is my spouse, my partner, my best friend, and my playmate. She’s Gods gift to me. She’s mine and I love saying so. It feels just as wonderful to say that I am hers. Brenda is my special someone.
There is great joy in knowing that God has chosen holy matrimony as the visible expression of His love toward us. The Lord of hosts will introduce us to all heaven as His bride. We are the gift that God has given Himself. We are His special someone. I am His and He is mine. Yahtehiyate! 2/12/2008 ts
I find great pleasure not only when I introduce Brenda as my wife but just thinking about the fact that she is mine. She is my spouse, my partner, my best friend, and my playmate. She’s Gods gift to me. She’s mine and I love saying so. It feels just as wonderful to say that I am hers. Brenda is my special someone.
There is great joy in knowing that God has chosen holy matrimony as the visible expression of His love toward us. The Lord of hosts will introduce us to all heaven as His bride. We are the gift that God has given Himself. We are His special someone. I am His and He is mine. Yahtehiyate! 2/12/2008 ts
That special someone
“They shall be mine, says the Lord of hosts…” Mal3.17
I find great pleasure not only when I introduce Brenda as my wife but just thinking about the fact that she is mine. She is my spouse, my partner, my best friend, and my playmate. She’s Gods gift to me. She’s mine and I love saying so. It feels just as wonderful to say that I am hers. Brenda is my special someone.
There is great joy in knowing that God has chosen holy matrimony as the visible expression of His love toward us. The Lord of hosts will introduce us to all heaven as His bride. We are the gift that God has given Himself. We are His special someone. I am His and He is mine. Yahtehiyate! 2/12/2008 ts
I find great pleasure not only when I introduce Brenda as my wife but just thinking about the fact that she is mine. She is my spouse, my partner, my best friend, and my playmate. She’s Gods gift to me. She’s mine and I love saying so. It feels just as wonderful to say that I am hers. Brenda is my special someone.
There is great joy in knowing that God has chosen holy matrimony as the visible expression of His love toward us. The Lord of hosts will introduce us to all heaven as His bride. We are the gift that God has given Himself. We are His special someone. I am His and He is mine. Yahtehiyate! 2/12/2008 ts
Monday, February 11, 2008
A healthy appreciation
“The Lord paid attention…” Mal3.16 ESV
If we have ever done something good for someone and they perhaps did not notice it, we can be sure that God has noticed. Not a single act of kindness will escape His attention. He tells us to not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing, which is another way of encouraging us to do our acts of kindness in secret. But, He also wants us to know that He is paying attention to these things and will reward them.
Of course God also sees the bad things we do, even the good things that we fail to do. We appreciate it when He rewards the good seed we have planted with an abundant harvest. We should equally come to grips with the fact that all the weed seed we have planted will also return to us. It is silly to expect God to honor the principle of sowing and reaping when we do well and ignore it when we don't. Nor should we understand the grace offered to us in Christ in such a manner that contradicts this. God because of Christ may forgive us for running off the road when we were drunk, but He probably will not grow back the arm that was severed when we did so, at least not in this life. And, all though God is free to work without, above and against ordinary means, we should have a healthy appreciation that He usually works in and through them. 2/11/2008 ts
If we have ever done something good for someone and they perhaps did not notice it, we can be sure that God has noticed. Not a single act of kindness will escape His attention. He tells us to not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing, which is another way of encouraging us to do our acts of kindness in secret. But, He also wants us to know that He is paying attention to these things and will reward them.
Of course God also sees the bad things we do, even the good things that we fail to do. We appreciate it when He rewards the good seed we have planted with an abundant harvest. We should equally come to grips with the fact that all the weed seed we have planted will also return to us. It is silly to expect God to honor the principle of sowing and reaping when we do well and ignore it when we don't. Nor should we understand the grace offered to us in Christ in such a manner that contradicts this. God because of Christ may forgive us for running off the road when we were drunk, but He probably will not grow back the arm that was severed when we did so, at least not in this life. And, all though God is free to work without, above and against ordinary means, we should have a healthy appreciation that He usually works in and through them. 2/11/2008 ts
A healthy appreciation
“The Lord paid attention…” Mal3.16 ESV
If we have ever done something good for someone and they perhaps did not notice it, we can be sure that God has noticed. Not a single act of kindness will escape His attention. He tells us to not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing, which is another way of encouraging us to do our acts of kindness in secret. But, He also wants us to know that He is paying attention to these things and will reward them.
Of course God also sees the bad things we do, even the good things that we fail to do. We appreciate it when He rewards the good seed we have planted with an abundant harvest. We should equally come to grips with the fact that all the weed seed we have planted will also return to us. It is silly to expect God to honor the principle of sowing and reaping when we do well and ignore it when we don't. Nor should we understand the grace offered to us in Christ in such a manner that contradicts this. God because of Christ may forgive us for running off the road when we were drunk, but He probably will not grow back the arm that was severed when we did so, at least not in this life. And, all though God is free to work without, above and against ordinary means, we should have a healthy appreciation that He usually works in and through them. 2/11/2008 ts
If we have ever done something good for someone and they perhaps did not notice it, we can be sure that God has noticed. Not a single act of kindness will escape His attention. He tells us to not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing, which is another way of encouraging us to do our acts of kindness in secret. But, He also wants us to know that He is paying attention to these things and will reward them.
Of course God also sees the bad things we do, even the good things that we fail to do. We appreciate it when He rewards the good seed we have planted with an abundant harvest. We should equally come to grips with the fact that all the weed seed we have planted will also return to us. It is silly to expect God to honor the principle of sowing and reaping when we do well and ignore it when we don't. Nor should we understand the grace offered to us in Christ in such a manner that contradicts this. God because of Christ may forgive us for running off the road when we were drunk, but He probably will not grow back the arm that was severed when we did so, at least not in this life. And, all though God is free to work without, above and against ordinary means, we should have a healthy appreciation that He usually works in and through them. 2/11/2008 ts
Friday, February 8, 2008
True Friends
“I have called you friends.” Jo15.15 ESV
I should think that one true measure of wealth, would be in ones friends, not how many, but the depth of love expressed between them. When two people or even a group of people, choose commitment to one another’s welfare and happiness and follow such by seeking the other’s benefit in all things, there is something far more valuable than just two people who share a common interest in say, a sport or hobby. When the interest is in the welfare and happiness of another, when the interest is in the other’s soul, it transcends mere camaraderie that is often built around stuff.
Christ has pledged Himself to our well-being. He has made our good His own and has given and continues to give Himself to secure it. He has accepted us as we are, yet loves us enough to not leave us the way we are. He has called us His friends. And, in doing so, He is calling us to be His friend, to make His concerns, His cause, our own. His cause of course is the glory of the Father and the Father’s glory is, at least in one respect, that we know and experience the value of His friendship. 2/8/2008 ts
I should think that one true measure of wealth, would be in ones friends, not how many, but the depth of love expressed between them. When two people or even a group of people, choose commitment to one another’s welfare and happiness and follow such by seeking the other’s benefit in all things, there is something far more valuable than just two people who share a common interest in say, a sport or hobby. When the interest is in the welfare and happiness of another, when the interest is in the other’s soul, it transcends mere camaraderie that is often built around stuff.
Christ has pledged Himself to our well-being. He has made our good His own and has given and continues to give Himself to secure it. He has accepted us as we are, yet loves us enough to not leave us the way we are. He has called us His friends. And, in doing so, He is calling us to be His friend, to make His concerns, His cause, our own. His cause of course is the glory of the Father and the Father’s glory is, at least in one respect, that we know and experience the value of His friendship. 2/8/2008 ts
True Friends
“I have called you friends.” Jo15.15 ESV
I should think that one true measure of wealth, would be in ones friends, not how many, but the depth of love expressed between them. When two people or even a group of people, choose commitment to one another’s welfare and happiness and follow such by seeking the other’s benefit in all things, there is something far more valuable than just two people who share a common interest in say, a sport or hobby. When the interest is in the welfare and happiness of another, when the interest is in the other’s soul, it transcends mere camaraderie that is often built around stuff.
Christ has pledged Himself to our well-being. He has made our good His own and has given and continues to give Himself to secure it. He has accepted us as we are, yet loves us enough to not leave us the way we are. He has called us His friends. And, in doing so, He is calling us to be His friend, to make His concerns, His cause, our own. His cause of course is the glory of the Father and the Father’s glory is, at least in one respect, that we know and experience the value of His friendship. 2/8/2008 ts
I should think that one true measure of wealth, would be in ones friends, not how many, but the depth of love expressed between them. When two people or even a group of people, choose commitment to one another’s welfare and happiness and follow such by seeking the other’s benefit in all things, there is something far more valuable than just two people who share a common interest in say, a sport or hobby. When the interest is in the welfare and happiness of another, when the interest is in the other’s soul, it transcends mere camaraderie that is often built around stuff.
Christ has pledged Himself to our well-being. He has made our good His own and has given and continues to give Himself to secure it. He has accepted us as we are, yet loves us enough to not leave us the way we are. He has called us His friends. And, in doing so, He is calling us to be His friend, to make His concerns, His cause, our own. His cause of course is the glory of the Father and the Father’s glory is, at least in one respect, that we know and experience the value of His friendship. 2/8/2008 ts
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Water to wine!
"And you shall eat and be full, and you shall bless the Lord your God…" Deut6.10 ESV
When we eat at the table of the Lord, we may expect to find the finest fare. The Father will always kill the fatted calf for everyone Jesus brings home for dinner. Christ has given us the assurance that all who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied. And when all is right with God, our fasts as well as our feasts are equally nourishing. The one who blesses the Lord God, will be blessed by Him. The one who tastes and sees that God is good, has power to turn water to wine. The cheerful of heart has a continual feast. Eat and be full and bless the Lord your God. 2/7/2008 ts
When we eat at the table of the Lord, we may expect to find the finest fare. The Father will always kill the fatted calf for everyone Jesus brings home for dinner. Christ has given us the assurance that all who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied. And when all is right with God, our fasts as well as our feasts are equally nourishing. The one who blesses the Lord God, will be blessed by Him. The one who tastes and sees that God is good, has power to turn water to wine. The cheerful of heart has a continual feast. Eat and be full and bless the Lord your God. 2/7/2008 ts
Water to wine!
"And you shall eat and be full, and you shall bless the Lord your God…" Deut6.10 ESV
When we eat at the table of the Lord, we may expect to find the finest fare. The Father will always kill the fatted calf for everyone Jesus brings home for dinner. Christ has given us the assurance that all who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied. And when all is right with God, our fasts as well as our feasts are equally nourishing. The one who blesses the Lord God, will be blessed by Him. The one who tastes and sees that God is good, has power to turn water to wine. The cheerful of heart has a continual feast. Eat and be full and bless the Lord your God. 2/7/2008 ts
When we eat at the table of the Lord, we may expect to find the finest fare. The Father will always kill the fatted calf for everyone Jesus brings home for dinner. Christ has given us the assurance that all who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied. And when all is right with God, our fasts as well as our feasts are equally nourishing. The one who blesses the Lord God, will be blessed by Him. The one who tastes and sees that God is good, has power to turn water to wine. The cheerful of heart has a continual feast. Eat and be full and bless the Lord your God. 2/7/2008 ts
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
My cup runneth over
"and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus." 1Ti1.14 ESV
I believe it was Jonathan Edwards who compared God to an infinite fountain, which "overflows in streams and rivers of love and delight." The Father's love for His Son and the Son's love for His Father have overflowed in love for us. It is clear the God's grace overflows to us, so that faith and love may overflow from us. And, as this stream began, the center of this overflow is love for Jesus. God's grace overflowed to us in the gift of Christ and our faith and love for others spring from our faith and love for Jesus. When I love Christ I love you, when I love you I am loving Christ.
It is wonderful beyond measure to live life as the overflow of faith and love, to be caught up in this never-ending stream of divine glory and sweetness. Did not David, declare, "My cup runneth over!" 2/6/2008 ts
I believe it was Jonathan Edwards who compared God to an infinite fountain, which "overflows in streams and rivers of love and delight." The Father's love for His Son and the Son's love for His Father have overflowed in love for us. It is clear the God's grace overflows to us, so that faith and love may overflow from us. And, as this stream began, the center of this overflow is love for Jesus. God's grace overflowed to us in the gift of Christ and our faith and love for others spring from our faith and love for Jesus. When I love Christ I love you, when I love you I am loving Christ.
It is wonderful beyond measure to live life as the overflow of faith and love, to be caught up in this never-ending stream of divine glory and sweetness. Did not David, declare, "My cup runneth over!" 2/6/2008 ts
My cup runneth over
"and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus." 1Ti1.14 ESV
I believe it was Jonathan Edwards who compared God to an infinite fountain, which "overflows in streams and rivers of love and delight." The Father's love for His Son and the Son's love for His Father have overflowed in love for us. It is clear the God's grace overflows to us, so that faith and love may overflow from us. And, as this stream began, the center of this overflow is love for Jesus. God's grace overflowed to us in the gift of Christ and our faith and love for others spring from our faith and love for Jesus. When I love Christ I love you, when I love you I am loving Christ.
It is wonderful beyond measure to live life as the overflow of faith and love, to be caught up in this never-ending stream of divine glory and sweetness. Did not David, declare, "My cup runneth over!" 2/6/2008 ts
I believe it was Jonathan Edwards who compared God to an infinite fountain, which "overflows in streams and rivers of love and delight." The Father's love for His Son and the Son's love for His Father have overflowed in love for us. It is clear the God's grace overflows to us, so that faith and love may overflow from us. And, as this stream began, the center of this overflow is love for Jesus. God's grace overflowed to us in the gift of Christ and our faith and love for others spring from our faith and love for Jesus. When I love Christ I love you, when I love you I am loving Christ.
It is wonderful beyond measure to live life as the overflow of faith and love, to be caught up in this never-ending stream of divine glory and sweetness. Did not David, declare, "My cup runneth over!" 2/6/2008 ts
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Sit on the rope.
"…Jesus, …abolished death…" 2Ti1.10 ESV
I am pretty certain that these words have yet to grip my heart as they should. Do I really believe that Christ has rendered death powerless, depriving it of its force and annulling my marriage to it? I want to, but the sad truth is that while I acknowledge this with my head I am still telling it to my heart. I still have trepidations about my upcoming appointment and especially that of my loved ones. And, that's OK. I find that I have similar struggles when rock climbing. I know in my head that I am held secure by anchor, rope and harness, yet I still have butterflies every time I go over the edge on a rappel of any height. It helps to sit on the rope, trust ones weight to it as mush as you can before going over the edge.
I should think the same is true when confronting our fear of death. We should sit on the rope, so to speak, that is trust ourselves to Christ as much as possible in all the other matters of life before we come to the edge of our assent.
Let me declare to my heart again and again. When death came to Christ and touched Him, it was not Christ but death itself that was forever changed. The door, which carried us away from God's presence, was made into an entrance. God has taken the sword of our enemy and turned it into a healing scalpel. Sit on the rope. 2/5/2008 ts
I am pretty certain that these words have yet to grip my heart as they should. Do I really believe that Christ has rendered death powerless, depriving it of its force and annulling my marriage to it? I want to, but the sad truth is that while I acknowledge this with my head I am still telling it to my heart. I still have trepidations about my upcoming appointment and especially that of my loved ones. And, that's OK. I find that I have similar struggles when rock climbing. I know in my head that I am held secure by anchor, rope and harness, yet I still have butterflies every time I go over the edge on a rappel of any height. It helps to sit on the rope, trust ones weight to it as mush as you can before going over the edge.
I should think the same is true when confronting our fear of death. We should sit on the rope, so to speak, that is trust ourselves to Christ as much as possible in all the other matters of life before we come to the edge of our assent.
Let me declare to my heart again and again. When death came to Christ and touched Him, it was not Christ but death itself that was forever changed. The door, which carried us away from God's presence, was made into an entrance. God has taken the sword of our enemy and turned it into a healing scalpel. Sit on the rope. 2/5/2008 ts
Sit on the rope.
"…Jesus, …abolished death…" 2Ti1.10 ESV
I am pretty certain that these words have yet to grip my heart as they should. Do I really believe that Christ has rendered death powerless, depriving it of its force and annulling my marriage to it? I want to, but the sad truth is that while I acknowledge this with my head I am still telling it to my heart. I still have trepidations about my upcoming appointment and especially that of my loved ones. And, that's OK. I find that I have similar struggles when rock climbing. I know in my head that I am held secure by anchor, rope and harness, yet I still have butterflies every time I go over the edge on a rappel of any height. It helps to sit on the rope, trust ones weight to it as mush as you can before going over the edge.
I should think the same is true when confronting our fear of death. We should sit on the rope, so to speak, that is trust ourselves to Christ as much as possible in all the other matters of life before we come to the edge of our assent.
Let me declare to my heart again and again. When death came to Christ and touched Him, it was not Christ but death itself that was forever changed. The door, which carried us away from God's presence, was made into an entrance. God has taken the sword of our enemy and turned it into a healing scalpel. Sit on the rope. 2/5/2008 ts
I am pretty certain that these words have yet to grip my heart as they should. Do I really believe that Christ has rendered death powerless, depriving it of its force and annulling my marriage to it? I want to, but the sad truth is that while I acknowledge this with my head I am still telling it to my heart. I still have trepidations about my upcoming appointment and especially that of my loved ones. And, that's OK. I find that I have similar struggles when rock climbing. I know in my head that I am held secure by anchor, rope and harness, yet I still have butterflies every time I go over the edge on a rappel of any height. It helps to sit on the rope, trust ones weight to it as mush as you can before going over the edge.
I should think the same is true when confronting our fear of death. We should sit on the rope, so to speak, that is trust ourselves to Christ as much as possible in all the other matters of life before we come to the edge of our assent.
Let me declare to my heart again and again. When death came to Christ and touched Him, it was not Christ but death itself that was forever changed. The door, which carried us away from God's presence, was made into an entrance. God has taken the sword of our enemy and turned it into a healing scalpel. Sit on the rope. 2/5/2008 ts
Monday, February 4, 2008
Reepicheep
'You shall never return that way again.' Deut17.16 ESV
It may seem a bit strange, but we set out every day trying to do something we know is impossible for us to do. I make reference to sin, mainly our efforts to keep from it. Sin can be something we do, that we know is wrong. Sin can also be something we know we should be doing but we are not doing. And, sin isn't limited to our actions; it can be something as simple as a selfish or envious thought. We set out each day to avoid these transgressions yet we know that before the sun goes down and sometimes even before we get out of the shower we have already failed.
Now God knows we will fail and that is the reason for Christ. He has satisfied the demands of God's justice for all who trust Him. Yet we know it is the full intention of Christ to free us not only from the penalty of sin but its power in our lives. And so, Jesus told the adulteress woman, whom He had just forgiven, "Go and sin no more." But Christ does leave us to our self. He comes to live in us, and to change the very direction of our heart. Do we not long to be with Him, to be like Him?
And, until we are delivered from our present state all we can do is accept the gift of His grace for no one earns heaven. But, having accepted the gift we strive like Reepicheep, to die with our tail toward Egypt and our nose toward the Promised Land.
" While I can, I sail east in the Dawn Treader. When she fails me, I paddle east in my coracle. When she sinks, I shall swim east with my four paws. And when I can swim no longer, if I have not reached Aslan's country, or shot over the edge of the world in some vast cataract, I shall sink with my nose to the sunrise" Reepicheep "Dawn Treader" 2/4/2008 ts
It may seem a bit strange, but we set out every day trying to do something we know is impossible for us to do. I make reference to sin, mainly our efforts to keep from it. Sin can be something we do, that we know is wrong. Sin can also be something we know we should be doing but we are not doing. And, sin isn't limited to our actions; it can be something as simple as a selfish or envious thought. We set out each day to avoid these transgressions yet we know that before the sun goes down and sometimes even before we get out of the shower we have already failed.
Now God knows we will fail and that is the reason for Christ. He has satisfied the demands of God's justice for all who trust Him. Yet we know it is the full intention of Christ to free us not only from the penalty of sin but its power in our lives. And so, Jesus told the adulteress woman, whom He had just forgiven, "Go and sin no more." But Christ does leave us to our self. He comes to live in us, and to change the very direction of our heart. Do we not long to be with Him, to be like Him?
And, until we are delivered from our present state all we can do is accept the gift of His grace for no one earns heaven. But, having accepted the gift we strive like Reepicheep, to die with our tail toward Egypt and our nose toward the Promised Land.
" While I can, I sail east in the Dawn Treader. When she fails me, I paddle east in my coracle. When she sinks, I shall swim east with my four paws. And when I can swim no longer, if I have not reached Aslan's country, or shot over the edge of the world in some vast cataract, I shall sink with my nose to the sunrise" Reepicheep "Dawn Treader" 2/4/2008 ts
Reepicheep
'You shall never return that way again.' Deut17.16 ESV
It may seem a bit strange, but we set out every day trying to do something we know is impossible for us to do. I make reference to sin, mainly our efforts to keep from it. Sin can be something we do, that we know is wrong. Sin can also be something we know we should be doing but we are not doing. And, sin isn't limited to our actions; it can be something as simple as a selfish or envious thought. We set out each day to avoid these transgressions yet we know that before the sun goes down and sometimes even before we get out of the shower we have already failed.
Now God knows we will fail and that is the reason for Christ. He has satisfied the demands of God's justice for all who trust Him. Yet we know it is the full intention of Christ to free us not only from the penalty of sin but its power in our lives. And so, Jesus told the adulteress woman, whom He had just forgiven, "Go and sin no more." But Christ does leave us to our self. He comes to live in us, and to change the very direction of our heart. Do we not long to be with Him, to be like Him?
And, until we are delivered from our present state all we can do is accept the gift of His grace for no one earns heaven. But, having accepted the gift we strive like Reepicheep, to die with our tail toward Egypt and our nose toward the Promised Land.
" While I can, I sail east in the Dawn Treader. When she fails me, I paddle east in my coracle. When she sinks, I shall swim east with my four paws. And when I can swim no longer, if I have not reached Aslan's country, or shot over the edge of the world in some vast cataract, I shall sink with my nose to the sunrise" Reepicheep "Dawn Treader" 2/4/2008 ts
It may seem a bit strange, but we set out every day trying to do something we know is impossible for us to do. I make reference to sin, mainly our efforts to keep from it. Sin can be something we do, that we know is wrong. Sin can also be something we know we should be doing but we are not doing. And, sin isn't limited to our actions; it can be something as simple as a selfish or envious thought. We set out each day to avoid these transgressions yet we know that before the sun goes down and sometimes even before we get out of the shower we have already failed.
Now God knows we will fail and that is the reason for Christ. He has satisfied the demands of God's justice for all who trust Him. Yet we know it is the full intention of Christ to free us not only from the penalty of sin but its power in our lives. And so, Jesus told the adulteress woman, whom He had just forgiven, "Go and sin no more." But Christ does leave us to our self. He comes to live in us, and to change the very direction of our heart. Do we not long to be with Him, to be like Him?
And, until we are delivered from our present state all we can do is accept the gift of His grace for no one earns heaven. But, having accepted the gift we strive like Reepicheep, to die with our tail toward Egypt and our nose toward the Promised Land.
" While I can, I sail east in the Dawn Treader. When she fails me, I paddle east in my coracle. When she sinks, I shall swim east with my four paws. And when I can swim no longer, if I have not reached Aslan's country, or shot over the edge of the world in some vast cataract, I shall sink with my nose to the sunrise" Reepicheep "Dawn Treader" 2/4/2008 ts
Friday, February 1, 2008
Footprints
“…for we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2Co5.7 ESV
I cannot see my soul, just its reflections appearing behind my cursor. I cannot see the air, just the rising and falling of my chest. I cannot see the wind, just its passage through forest trees. I cannot see God, just His love and goodness in answer to my prayers. All that is invisible certainly spills over into the visible.
Now, if what I see helps me trust God for all I do not see, then am I truly walking by faith and not by sight? Is not my sight guiding my faith? Well yes, but what we see behind us can only follow us so far on our journey toward the eternal. We eventually come up to the place where the only thing that God gives us is His word. Our faith then is not only that God exist, there is proof enough of that. Our faith is not only that this God is trustworthy and good, there is proof enough of that. Because faith is answered, there will always be footprints behind me, but I will always need faith for steps that lie in front of me--where the footprint is yet to be made. 2/1/2008 ts
I cannot see my soul, just its reflections appearing behind my cursor. I cannot see the air, just the rising and falling of my chest. I cannot see the wind, just its passage through forest trees. I cannot see God, just His love and goodness in answer to my prayers. All that is invisible certainly spills over into the visible.
Now, if what I see helps me trust God for all I do not see, then am I truly walking by faith and not by sight? Is not my sight guiding my faith? Well yes, but what we see behind us can only follow us so far on our journey toward the eternal. We eventually come up to the place where the only thing that God gives us is His word. Our faith then is not only that God exist, there is proof enough of that. Our faith is not only that this God is trustworthy and good, there is proof enough of that. Because faith is answered, there will always be footprints behind me, but I will always need faith for steps that lie in front of me--where the footprint is yet to be made. 2/1/2008 ts
Footprints
“…for we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2Co5.7 ESV
I cannot see my soul, just its reflections appearing behind my cursor. I cannot see the air, just the rising and falling of my chest. I cannot see the wind, just its passage through forest trees. I cannot see God, just His love and goodness in answer to my prayers. All that is invisible certainly spills over into the visible.
Now, if what I see helps me trust God for all I do not see, then am I truly walking by faith and not by sight? Is not my sight guiding my faith? Well yes, but what we see behind us can only follow us so far on our journey toward the eternal. We eventually come up to the place where the only thing that God gives us is His word. Our faith then is not only that God exist, there is proof enough of that. Our faith is not only that this God is trustworthy and good, there is proof enough of that. Because faith is answered, there will always be footprints behind me, but I will always need faith for steps that lie in front of me--where the footprint is yet to be made. 2/1/2008 ts
I cannot see my soul, just its reflections appearing behind my cursor. I cannot see the air, just the rising and falling of my chest. I cannot see the wind, just its passage through forest trees. I cannot see God, just His love and goodness in answer to my prayers. All that is invisible certainly spills over into the visible.
Now, if what I see helps me trust God for all I do not see, then am I truly walking by faith and not by sight? Is not my sight guiding my faith? Well yes, but what we see behind us can only follow us so far on our journey toward the eternal. We eventually come up to the place where the only thing that God gives us is His word. Our faith then is not only that God exist, there is proof enough of that. Our faith is not only that this God is trustworthy and good, there is proof enough of that. Because faith is answered, there will always be footprints behind me, but I will always need faith for steps that lie in front of me--where the footprint is yet to be made. 2/1/2008 ts
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