For freedom Christ has set us free… Gal5.1 ESV
Last night we had a dinner discussion about the nature of freedom. We mentioned the Bill of Rights, minority groups demanding civil liberties and the role of government in light of it all. Someone offered the insightful summary; “Freedom is not the right to do as you want, but the power to do as you should.” Doing what we want inevitably leads to slavery. Christ enables us to do the Father’s will by coming to live in us. It is in surrender to His will that our will is ultimately set free.
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Friday, June 27, 2008
“None are so hopelessly enslaved as those who falsely believe they are free.” Goethe
For freedom Christ has set us free… Gal5.1 ESV
Last night we had a dinner discussion about the nature of freedom. We mentioned the Bill of Rights, minority groups demanding civil liberties and the role of government in light of it all. Someone offered the insightful summary; “Freedom is not the right to do as you want, but the power to do as you should.” Doing what we want inevitably leads to slavery. Christ enables us to do the Father’s will by coming to live in us. It is in surrender to His will that our will is ultimately set free.
Last night we had a dinner discussion about the nature of freedom. We mentioned the Bill of Rights, minority groups demanding civil liberties and the role of government in light of it all. Someone offered the insightful summary; “Freedom is not the right to do as you want, but the power to do as you should.” Doing what we want inevitably leads to slavery. Christ enables us to do the Father’s will by coming to live in us. It is in surrender to His will that our will is ultimately set free.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Money will buy you a pretty good dog, but it won't buy the wag of his tail. ~Henry Wheeler Shaw
The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. Prov10.22 ESV
If God happens to choose wealth as our lot, and he certainly does not choose this for all His children, at least not monetary wealth, such wealth will not come wrapped in sorrow. The pursuit of money has stolen joy from the heart of many people. When God decides to bless someone with it, He gives to them even in their sleep. This is one possible summary of these words. Perhaps a better summary is that God has blessed all His children with riches, perhaps not the monetary kind, and there is no sorrow for the one able to see this. Indeed there is abundant joy, when we know the wealth that surrounds us and our greatest wealth may just be, the power to see it. How great is the joy when we can say with sincere and grateful hearts, “You have drawn the lines for me in pleasant places.” 6/26/2008 ts
If God happens to choose wealth as our lot, and he certainly does not choose this for all His children, at least not monetary wealth, such wealth will not come wrapped in sorrow. The pursuit of money has stolen joy from the heart of many people. When God decides to bless someone with it, He gives to them even in their sleep. This is one possible summary of these words. Perhaps a better summary is that God has blessed all His children with riches, perhaps not the monetary kind, and there is no sorrow for the one able to see this. Indeed there is abundant joy, when we know the wealth that surrounds us and our greatest wealth may just be, the power to see it. How great is the joy when we can say with sincere and grateful hearts, “You have drawn the lines for me in pleasant places.” 6/26/2008 ts
Money will buy you a pretty good dog, but it won't buy the wag of his tail. ~Henry Wheeler Shaw
The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. Prov10.22 ESV
If God happens to choose wealth as our lot, and he certainly does not choose this for all His children, at least not monetary wealth, such wealth will not come wrapped in sorrow. The pursuit of money has stolen joy from the heart of many people. When God decides to bless someone with it, He gives to them even in their sleep. This is one possible summary of these words. Perhaps a better summary is that God has blessed all His children with riches, perhaps not the monetary kind, and there is no sorrow for the one able to see this. Indeed there is abundant joy, when we know the wealth that surrounds us and our greatest wealth may just be, the power to see it. How great is the joy when we can say with sincere and grateful hearts, “You have drawn the lines for me in pleasant places.” 6/26/2008 ts
If God happens to choose wealth as our lot, and he certainly does not choose this for all His children, at least not monetary wealth, such wealth will not come wrapped in sorrow. The pursuit of money has stolen joy from the heart of many people. When God decides to bless someone with it, He gives to them even in their sleep. This is one possible summary of these words. Perhaps a better summary is that God has blessed all His children with riches, perhaps not the monetary kind, and there is no sorrow for the one able to see this. Indeed there is abundant joy, when we know the wealth that surrounds us and our greatest wealth may just be, the power to see it. How great is the joy when we can say with sincere and grateful hearts, “You have drawn the lines for me in pleasant places.” 6/26/2008 ts
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
God's promises are like the stars; the darker the night the brighter they shine. ~David Nicholas
“He has granted to us his precious and very great promises…” 2Pet1.4 ESV
God’s promises are said to be precious and great. Consider how precious and priceless is the word of God. How can one measure the value of His directions, encouragements and warnings? What chance would an infant have without the mother’s care? So also are God’s precious instructions for life.
Consider how great are God’s promises. How great is their fame; those who live by them celebrate them. How great is their importance; there is no manner of measuring their impact. His promises are great because they are unlimited; He has promised all we need. They are great because they are immense; there is enormous potential for anyone who lives by them. How precious and great are the promises of God. Do I value them, as they should be valued? Do I hold their greatness with great esteem?
God’s promises are said to be precious and great. Consider how precious and priceless is the word of God. How can one measure the value of His directions, encouragements and warnings? What chance would an infant have without the mother’s care? So also are God’s precious instructions for life.
Consider how great are God’s promises. How great is their fame; those who live by them celebrate them. How great is their importance; there is no manner of measuring their impact. His promises are great because they are unlimited; He has promised all we need. They are great because they are immense; there is enormous potential for anyone who lives by them. How precious and great are the promises of God. Do I value them, as they should be valued? Do I hold their greatness with great esteem?
God's promises are like the stars; the darker the night the brighter they shine. ~David Nicholas
“He has granted to us his precious and very great promises…” 2Pet1.4 ESV
God’s promises are said to be precious and great. Consider how precious and priceless is the word of God. How can one measure the value of His directions, encouragements and warnings? What chance would an infant have without the mother’s care? So also are God’s precious instructions for life.
Consider how great are God’s promises. How great is their fame; those who live by them celebrate them. How great is their importance; there is no manner of measuring their impact. His promises are great because they are unlimited; He has promised all we need. They are great because they are immense; there is enormous potential for anyone who lives by them. How precious and great are the promises of God. Do I value them, as they should be valued? Do I hold their greatness with great esteem?
God’s promises are said to be precious and great. Consider how precious and priceless is the word of God. How can one measure the value of His directions, encouragements and warnings? What chance would an infant have without the mother’s care? So also are God’s precious instructions for life.
Consider how great are God’s promises. How great is their fame; those who live by them celebrate them. How great is their importance; there is no manner of measuring their impact. His promises are great because they are unlimited; He has promised all we need. They are great because they are immense; there is enormous potential for anyone who lives by them. How precious and great are the promises of God. Do I value them, as they should be valued? Do I hold their greatness with great esteem?
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
“Life is the sum of all your choices.” Albert Camus
And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.
Several months ago I reluctantly purchased a pump from Wal-Mart for the exercise pool in our backyard. I remember committing the whole affair to the Lord, hoping that I was making a good decision (anytime I spend money it tends to be a big deal). The day before yesterday, just like that, the pump stopped working. Now my first thought was to remind the Lord that I had asked Him whether I should make that particular purchase and I felt that He should have at least warned me that I was about to waste my money.
As I set about fixing the problem I actually ended up creating a better filtering system and since the house is up for sale I thought that the potential new owners would appreciate the improvement. At that moment, I had one of those moments when you know the Lord is talking to you. He gently whispered the words in my soul that it was a good thing to love my neighbor, that I had made the right choice and that it is never a waste of money to leave a place better than you find it. He also explained to me that whether our house sells or not, that it is incredibly liberating to live this way and that doing so would free me from the anxieties I been having about spending money on a house I intend to sell.
You see, there was really no question if I would be willing to by a pump for my benefit. The question I was really asking in Wal-Mart those many months ago was, is the person who might buy my house worth this improvement. Evidently God believes so, and now I do. 6/24/2008 ts
Several months ago I reluctantly purchased a pump from Wal-Mart for the exercise pool in our backyard. I remember committing the whole affair to the Lord, hoping that I was making a good decision (anytime I spend money it tends to be a big deal). The day before yesterday, just like that, the pump stopped working. Now my first thought was to remind the Lord that I had asked Him whether I should make that particular purchase and I felt that He should have at least warned me that I was about to waste my money.
As I set about fixing the problem I actually ended up creating a better filtering system and since the house is up for sale I thought that the potential new owners would appreciate the improvement. At that moment, I had one of those moments when you know the Lord is talking to you. He gently whispered the words in my soul that it was a good thing to love my neighbor, that I had made the right choice and that it is never a waste of money to leave a place better than you find it. He also explained to me that whether our house sells or not, that it is incredibly liberating to live this way and that doing so would free me from the anxieties I been having about spending money on a house I intend to sell.
You see, there was really no question if I would be willing to by a pump for my benefit. The question I was really asking in Wal-Mart those many months ago was, is the person who might buy my house worth this improvement. Evidently God believes so, and now I do. 6/24/2008 ts
“Life is the sum of all your choices.” Albert Camus
And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.
Several months ago I reluctantly purchased a pump from Wal-Mart for the exercise pool in our backyard. I remember committing the whole affair to the Lord, hoping that I was making a good decision (anytime I spend money it tends to be a big deal). The day before yesterday, just like that, the pump stopped working. Now my first thought was to remind the Lord that I had asked Him whether I should make that particular purchase and I felt that He should have at least warned me that I was about to waste my money.
As I set about fixing the problem I actually ended up creating a better filtering system and since the house is up for sale I thought that the potential new owners would appreciate the improvement. At that moment, I had one of those moments when you know the Lord is talking to you. He gently whispered the words in my soul that it was a good thing to love my neighbor, that I had made the right choice and that it is never a waste of money to leave a place better than you find it. He also explained to me that whether our house sells or not, that it is incredibly liberating to live this way and that doing so would free me from the anxieties I been having about spending money on a house I intend to sell.
You see, there was really no question if I would be willing to by a pump for my benefit. The question I was really asking in Wal-Mart those many months ago was, is the person who might buy my house worth this improvement. Evidently God believes so, and now I do. 6/24/2008 ts
Several months ago I reluctantly purchased a pump from Wal-Mart for the exercise pool in our backyard. I remember committing the whole affair to the Lord, hoping that I was making a good decision (anytime I spend money it tends to be a big deal). The day before yesterday, just like that, the pump stopped working. Now my first thought was to remind the Lord that I had asked Him whether I should make that particular purchase and I felt that He should have at least warned me that I was about to waste my money.
As I set about fixing the problem I actually ended up creating a better filtering system and since the house is up for sale I thought that the potential new owners would appreciate the improvement. At that moment, I had one of those moments when you know the Lord is talking to you. He gently whispered the words in my soul that it was a good thing to love my neighbor, that I had made the right choice and that it is never a waste of money to leave a place better than you find it. He also explained to me that whether our house sells or not, that it is incredibly liberating to live this way and that doing so would free me from the anxieties I been having about spending money on a house I intend to sell.
You see, there was really no question if I would be willing to by a pump for my benefit. The question I was really asking in Wal-Mart those many months ago was, is the person who might buy my house worth this improvement. Evidently God believes so, and now I do. 6/24/2008 ts
Monday, June 23, 2008
Hey! Lookie here!
God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Rom5.5 ESV
I used to carry emergency money. Once, forgetting that I had done so, I came across a hundred-dollar bill that I had tucked away in my wallet. It was a delightful experience to realize that I had money I didn’t remember I had. I remember saying to myself. Hey! Lookie here!
I forget a lot of things these days, but it is a strange thing to forget about the roll of the Holy Spirit in my relationship with God. How is this possible I wonder? I interact with the Father every day, all day, yet forget about the gift of the Holy Spirit who lives in me. Perhaps this is due in part to the subtle ways He works in us. Jesus did tell us that He would not speak of Himself but pass along the words of the Father and Son. But I have an uneasy feeling that I may be treating the Holy Spirit like my emergency money. I only become aware of His value in times of crisis. He is not to be thus hidden away. He is as living currency in us, for we surely need His enabling power for the simplest expressions of faith. 6/23/2008 ts
I used to carry emergency money. Once, forgetting that I had done so, I came across a hundred-dollar bill that I had tucked away in my wallet. It was a delightful experience to realize that I had money I didn’t remember I had. I remember saying to myself. Hey! Lookie here!
I forget a lot of things these days, but it is a strange thing to forget about the roll of the Holy Spirit in my relationship with God. How is this possible I wonder? I interact with the Father every day, all day, yet forget about the gift of the Holy Spirit who lives in me. Perhaps this is due in part to the subtle ways He works in us. Jesus did tell us that He would not speak of Himself but pass along the words of the Father and Son. But I have an uneasy feeling that I may be treating the Holy Spirit like my emergency money. I only become aware of His value in times of crisis. He is not to be thus hidden away. He is as living currency in us, for we surely need His enabling power for the simplest expressions of faith. 6/23/2008 ts
Hey! Lookie here!
God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Rom5.5 ESV
I used to carry emergency money. Once, forgetting that I had done so, I came across a hundred-dollar bill that I had tucked away in my wallet. It was a delightful experience to realize that I had money I didn’t remember I had. I remember saying to myself. Hey! Lookie here!
I forget a lot of things these days, but it is a strange thing to forget about the roll of the Holy Spirit in my relationship with God. How is this possible I wonder? I interact with the Father every day, all day, yet forget about the gift of the Holy Spirit who lives in me. Perhaps this is due in part to the subtle ways He works in us. Jesus did tell us that He would not speak of Himself but pass along the words of the Father and Son. But I have an uneasy feeling that I may be treating the Holy Spirit like my emergency money. I only become aware of His value in times of crisis. He is not to be thus hidden away. He is as living currency in us, for we surely need His enabling power for the simplest expressions of faith. 6/23/2008 ts
I used to carry emergency money. Once, forgetting that I had done so, I came across a hundred-dollar bill that I had tucked away in my wallet. It was a delightful experience to realize that I had money I didn’t remember I had. I remember saying to myself. Hey! Lookie here!
I forget a lot of things these days, but it is a strange thing to forget about the roll of the Holy Spirit in my relationship with God. How is this possible I wonder? I interact with the Father every day, all day, yet forget about the gift of the Holy Spirit who lives in me. Perhaps this is due in part to the subtle ways He works in us. Jesus did tell us that He would not speak of Himself but pass along the words of the Father and Son. But I have an uneasy feeling that I may be treating the Holy Spirit like my emergency money. I only become aware of His value in times of crisis. He is not to be thus hidden away. He is as living currency in us, for we surely need His enabling power for the simplest expressions of faith. 6/23/2008 ts
Saturday, June 21, 2008
“When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That's my religion.” Abraham Lincoln
“Jesus…went about doing good…for God was with him.” Acts10.38 ESV
A mountain spring cannot help but overflow. So it is with God. So it is when God is with someone. It is said that there is something about God’s absolute goodness, which is prone to overflow. Jesus went about doing good because He couldn’t help Himself. Like His Father, the absolute goodness of Christ continually overflowed in kindness to those around Him. I think that if Jesus has come to truly live in us, we can pretty much expect to see our own desire to do good, grow to the point where it too is overflowing in kindness to others. 6/21/2008 ts
A mountain spring cannot help but overflow. So it is with God. So it is when God is with someone. It is said that there is something about God’s absolute goodness, which is prone to overflow. Jesus went about doing good because He couldn’t help Himself. Like His Father, the absolute goodness of Christ continually overflowed in kindness to those around Him. I think that if Jesus has come to truly live in us, we can pretty much expect to see our own desire to do good, grow to the point where it too is overflowing in kindness to others. 6/21/2008 ts
“When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That's my religion.” Abraham Lincoln
“Jesus…went about doing good…for God was with him.” Acts10.38 ESV
A mountain spring cannot help but overflow. So it is with God. So it is when God is with someone. It is said that there is something about God’s absolute goodness, which is prone to overflow. Jesus went about doing good because He couldn’t help Himself. Like His Father, the absolute goodness of Christ continually overflowed in kindness to those around Him. I think that if Jesus has come to truly live in us, we can pretty much expect to see our own desire to do good, grow to the point where it too is overflowing in kindness to others. 6/21/2008 ts
A mountain spring cannot help but overflow. So it is with God. So it is when God is with someone. It is said that there is something about God’s absolute goodness, which is prone to overflow. Jesus went about doing good because He couldn’t help Himself. Like His Father, the absolute goodness of Christ continually overflowed in kindness to those around Him. I think that if Jesus has come to truly live in us, we can pretty much expect to see our own desire to do good, grow to the point where it too is overflowing in kindness to others. 6/21/2008 ts
Friday, June 20, 2008
We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. Churchill
“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” Pro11.25 ESV
Just as there are laws that govern the physical aspects of life there are laws, which govern the spiritual dimensions of it. And, as we are both body and soul, generally what happens in one dimension flows over into the other. One spiritual law, universally observed, is simply this: “It is in giving that we receive.”
When the energy of our life flows out toward others, we will find the energy of His life flowing into us. God is love, He will always be found in the heart of the one loving others. Here is life and health and peace. Here is “the” commandment of Christ, “Love one another.” 6/20/2008 ts
Just as there are laws that govern the physical aspects of life there are laws, which govern the spiritual dimensions of it. And, as we are both body and soul, generally what happens in one dimension flows over into the other. One spiritual law, universally observed, is simply this: “It is in giving that we receive.”
When the energy of our life flows out toward others, we will find the energy of His life flowing into us. God is love, He will always be found in the heart of the one loving others. Here is life and health and peace. Here is “the” commandment of Christ, “Love one another.” 6/20/2008 ts
We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. Churchill
“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” Pro11.25 ESV
Just as there are laws that govern the physical aspects of life there are laws, which govern the spiritual dimensions of it. And, as we are both body and soul, generally what happens in one dimension flows over into the other. One spiritual law, universally observed, is simply this: “It is in giving that we receive.”
When the energy of our life flows out toward others, we will find the energy of His life flowing into us. God is love, He will always be found in the heart of the one loving others. Here is life and health and peace. Here is “the” commandment of Christ, “Love one another.” 6/20/2008 ts
Just as there are laws that govern the physical aspects of life there are laws, which govern the spiritual dimensions of it. And, as we are both body and soul, generally what happens in one dimension flows over into the other. One spiritual law, universally observed, is simply this: “It is in giving that we receive.”
When the energy of our life flows out toward others, we will find the energy of His life flowing into us. God is love, He will always be found in the heart of the one loving others. Here is life and health and peace. Here is “the” commandment of Christ, “Love one another.” 6/20/2008 ts
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Don’t tell what a kiss is, Kiss me!
“You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” Lev19.2 ESV
Lord I have defended holiness, but I have defiled it as well.
I, who have condemned, condemn myself.
I have admitted, even taught others, that your ways are right and good and true. But acknowledging and acting out are not the same.
Lord, I have defined holiness, but it would be better that I experience it. I would rather kiss and be kissed than be told the definition kissing.
I have reflected and spoken and written about holiness. Is it not time that I move from defining it, to being a definition of it.
6/19/2008 ts
Lord I have defended holiness, but I have defiled it as well.
I, who have condemned, condemn myself.
I have admitted, even taught others, that your ways are right and good and true. But acknowledging and acting out are not the same.
Lord, I have defined holiness, but it would be better that I experience it. I would rather kiss and be kissed than be told the definition kissing.
I have reflected and spoken and written about holiness. Is it not time that I move from defining it, to being a definition of it.
6/19/2008 ts
Don’t tell what a kiss is, Kiss me!
“You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” Lev19.2 ESV
Lord I have defended holiness, but I have defiled it as well.
I, who have condemned, condemn myself.
I have admitted, even taught others, that your ways are right and good and true. But acknowledging and acting out are not the same.
Lord, I have defined holiness, but it would be better that I experience it. I would rather kiss and be kissed than be told the definition kissing.
I have reflected and spoken and written about holiness. Is it not time that I move from defining it, to being a definition of it.
6/19/2008 ts
Lord I have defended holiness, but I have defiled it as well.
I, who have condemned, condemn myself.
I have admitted, even taught others, that your ways are right and good and true. But acknowledging and acting out are not the same.
Lord, I have defined holiness, but it would be better that I experience it. I would rather kiss and be kissed than be told the definition kissing.
I have reflected and spoken and written about holiness. Is it not time that I move from defining it, to being a definition of it.
6/19/2008 ts
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Top to bottom
And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. Mt27.51 ESV
Top to bottom, you say? The direction of this rip says much about God’s initiative in clearing up the problems that prevent us from knowing Him. The temple curtain was symbolic of the separation between God’s holiness and our sinfulness and it was God not man that reopened the way back to Him. That the curtain was ripped is emblematic of the violence perpetrated against Jesus on the cross. That it was ripped from top to bottom shows us that God was the perpetrator that He was pouring out wrath on Christ to appease His justice against our transgressions.
His is always the initiative, ours is only the response. If we find ourselves seeking after God, we will find in the end that God was first seeking us. For every one step we take toward Him He has taken many steps toward us. The whole of our relationship with Him is always as oil pour out and running down. It is the dew of heaven that always comes down to us from top to bottom. 6/18/2008 ts
Top to bottom, you say? The direction of this rip says much about God’s initiative in clearing up the problems that prevent us from knowing Him. The temple curtain was symbolic of the separation between God’s holiness and our sinfulness and it was God not man that reopened the way back to Him. That the curtain was ripped is emblematic of the violence perpetrated against Jesus on the cross. That it was ripped from top to bottom shows us that God was the perpetrator that He was pouring out wrath on Christ to appease His justice against our transgressions.
His is always the initiative, ours is only the response. If we find ourselves seeking after God, we will find in the end that God was first seeking us. For every one step we take toward Him He has taken many steps toward us. The whole of our relationship with Him is always as oil pour out and running down. It is the dew of heaven that always comes down to us from top to bottom. 6/18/2008 ts
Top to bottom
And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. Mt27.51 ESV
Top to bottom, you say? The direction of this rip says much about God’s initiative in clearing up the problems that prevent us from knowing Him. The temple curtain was symbolic of the separation between God’s holiness and our sinfulness and it was God not man that reopened the way back to Him. That the curtain was ripped is emblematic of the violence perpetrated against Jesus on the cross. That it was ripped from top to bottom shows us that God was the perpetrator that He was pouring out wrath on Christ to appease His justice against our transgressions.
His is always the initiative, ours is only the response. If we find ourselves seeking after God, we will find in the end that God was first seeking us. For every one step we take toward Him He has taken many steps toward us. The whole of our relationship with Him is always as oil pour out and running down. It is the dew of heaven that always comes down to us from top to bottom. 6/18/2008 ts
Top to bottom, you say? The direction of this rip says much about God’s initiative in clearing up the problems that prevent us from knowing Him. The temple curtain was symbolic of the separation between God’s holiness and our sinfulness and it was God not man that reopened the way back to Him. That the curtain was ripped is emblematic of the violence perpetrated against Jesus on the cross. That it was ripped from top to bottom shows us that God was the perpetrator that He was pouring out wrath on Christ to appease His justice against our transgressions.
His is always the initiative, ours is only the response. If we find ourselves seeking after God, we will find in the end that God was first seeking us. For every one step we take toward Him He has taken many steps toward us. The whole of our relationship with Him is always as oil pour out and running down. It is the dew of heaven that always comes down to us from top to bottom. 6/18/2008 ts
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Long winded twaddle
“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Mt.6.7 ESV
I do not think that Christ is telling us that we can pray too much, rather He is cautioning us to avoid empty prayers. What are empty prayers? Well, unnecessarily repeating our self for one, and superstitiously repeating our self for another. When we ask God for something we should not think that He would hear us because we superstitiously chant words over and over again. Such are empty words because they are mindless words. Prayer is conversation and like any good conversation our prayers should have meaning. We should give thought to our words before God and not drivel nonsense or profusely bleat like a weaning calf. Economy of speech can confidently reflect our belief that God knows what we need before we ask. One well-placed word, resting assertively on the promises of God, is far more potent in prayer than long winded twaddle. 6/17/2008 ts
I do not think that Christ is telling us that we can pray too much, rather He is cautioning us to avoid empty prayers. What are empty prayers? Well, unnecessarily repeating our self for one, and superstitiously repeating our self for another. When we ask God for something we should not think that He would hear us because we superstitiously chant words over and over again. Such are empty words because they are mindless words. Prayer is conversation and like any good conversation our prayers should have meaning. We should give thought to our words before God and not drivel nonsense or profusely bleat like a weaning calf. Economy of speech can confidently reflect our belief that God knows what we need before we ask. One well-placed word, resting assertively on the promises of God, is far more potent in prayer than long winded twaddle. 6/17/2008 ts
Long winded twaddle
“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Mt.6.7 ESV
I do not think that Christ is telling us that we can pray too much, rather He is cautioning us to avoid empty prayers. What are empty prayers? Well, unnecessarily repeating our self for one, and superstitiously repeating our self for another. When we ask God for something we should not think that He would hear us because we superstitiously chant words over and over again. Such are empty words because they are mindless words. Prayer is conversation and like any good conversation our prayers should have meaning. We should give thought to our words before God and not drivel nonsense or profusely bleat like a weaning calf. Economy of speech can confidently reflect our belief that God knows what we need before we ask. One well-placed word, resting assertively on the promises of God, is far more potent in prayer than long winded twaddle. 6/17/2008 ts
I do not think that Christ is telling us that we can pray too much, rather He is cautioning us to avoid empty prayers. What are empty prayers? Well, unnecessarily repeating our self for one, and superstitiously repeating our self for another. When we ask God for something we should not think that He would hear us because we superstitiously chant words over and over again. Such are empty words because they are mindless words. Prayer is conversation and like any good conversation our prayers should have meaning. We should give thought to our words before God and not drivel nonsense or profusely bleat like a weaning calf. Economy of speech can confidently reflect our belief that God knows what we need before we ask. One well-placed word, resting assertively on the promises of God, is far more potent in prayer than long winded twaddle. 6/17/2008 ts
Monday, June 16, 2008
More than a feeling!
“Love the Lord your God.” Josh22.5 ESV
Love is often confused with just our feelings for someone. It is certainly that, indeed who would want another’s love if it were not heart felt. But love is “more than a feeling,” if you know what I mean. The encouragements, which follow this admonition, are practical expressions of our love for the Lord, particularly as actions. Four are mentioned: Walk in all his ways; keep his commandments; cling to him and serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. This pretty much covers it all. There is only one God and He is of course to be first in our affections. But in the end, it will be our actions that reveal the true measure of our love for Him. 6/16/2008 ts
Love is often confused with just our feelings for someone. It is certainly that, indeed who would want another’s love if it were not heart felt. But love is “more than a feeling,” if you know what I mean. The encouragements, which follow this admonition, are practical expressions of our love for the Lord, particularly as actions. Four are mentioned: Walk in all his ways; keep his commandments; cling to him and serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. This pretty much covers it all. There is only one God and He is of course to be first in our affections. But in the end, it will be our actions that reveal the true measure of our love for Him. 6/16/2008 ts
More than a feeling!
“Love the Lord your God.” Josh22.5 ESV
Love is often confused with just our feelings for someone. It is certainly that, indeed who would want another’s love if it were not heart felt. But love is “more than a feeling,” if you know what I mean. The encouragements, which follow this admonition, are practical expressions of our love for the Lord, particularly as actions. Four are mentioned: Walk in all his ways; keep his commandments; cling to him and serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. This pretty much covers it all. There is only one God and He is of course to be first in our affections. But in the end, it will be our actions that reveal the true measure of our love for Him. 6/16/2008 ts
Love is often confused with just our feelings for someone. It is certainly that, indeed who would want another’s love if it were not heart felt. But love is “more than a feeling,” if you know what I mean. The encouragements, which follow this admonition, are practical expressions of our love for the Lord, particularly as actions. Four are mentioned: Walk in all his ways; keep his commandments; cling to him and serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. This pretty much covers it all. There is only one God and He is of course to be first in our affections. But in the end, it will be our actions that reveal the true measure of our love for Him. 6/16/2008 ts
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Running rapids
“...comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.” 2Thess2.17 ESV
I know a few people who would be called thrill seekers but I think most people are solace seekers. The hurry, hustle and bustle of life has left most of us hungering for quiet. Yet, those who seriously seek solace know that real peace is so much more than just serene sunsets and surroundings. We long for that inner peace, one that rules the heart no matter what our outward circumstance. I find myself seeking this peace because I am in and out of it all through the day. I am one of those who would rather paddle the quiet rivers than run the rapids. I think this is true because I am tired of the rapids in my inner self. We sail in the tempestuous waters of a divided self, always doing things we don’t want to do, and not doing the things we know we should do.
Jesus tells us to comfort our hearts in the knowledge that He is the Prince of Peace and if we allow Him, He will heal all that is fragmented in our lives. I am sure there are rapids left to run. But there is comfort in the knowledge that Christ is guiding me down the river of life into the ocean of His love. To center myself on His every good work and word is to know the peace He has promised. When His quiet waters run in us we can experience peace, even joy in the rapids around us. 6/14/2008 ts
I know a few people who would be called thrill seekers but I think most people are solace seekers. The hurry, hustle and bustle of life has left most of us hungering for quiet. Yet, those who seriously seek solace know that real peace is so much more than just serene sunsets and surroundings. We long for that inner peace, one that rules the heart no matter what our outward circumstance. I find myself seeking this peace because I am in and out of it all through the day. I am one of those who would rather paddle the quiet rivers than run the rapids. I think this is true because I am tired of the rapids in my inner self. We sail in the tempestuous waters of a divided self, always doing things we don’t want to do, and not doing the things we know we should do.
Jesus tells us to comfort our hearts in the knowledge that He is the Prince of Peace and if we allow Him, He will heal all that is fragmented in our lives. I am sure there are rapids left to run. But there is comfort in the knowledge that Christ is guiding me down the river of life into the ocean of His love. To center myself on His every good work and word is to know the peace He has promised. When His quiet waters run in us we can experience peace, even joy in the rapids around us. 6/14/2008 ts
Running rapids
“...comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.” 2Thess2.17 ESV
I know a few people who would be called thrill seekers but I think most people are solace seekers. The hurry, hustle and bustle of life has left most of us hungering for quiet. Yet, those who seriously seek solace know that real peace is so much more than just serene sunsets and surroundings. We long for that inner peace, one that rules the heart no matter what our outward circumstance. I find myself seeking this peace because I am in and out of it all through the day. I am one of those who would rather paddle the quiet rivers than run the rapids. I think this is true because I am tired of the rapids in my inner self. We sail in the tempestuous waters of a divided self, always doing things we don’t want to do, and not doing the things we know we should do.
Jesus tells us to comfort our hearts in the knowledge that He is the Prince of Peace and if we allow Him, He will heal all that is fragmented in our lives. I am sure there are rapids left to run. But there is comfort in the knowledge that Christ is guiding me down the river of life into the ocean of His love. To center myself on His every good work and word is to know the peace He has promised. When His quiet waters run in us we can experience peace, even joy in the rapids around us. 6/14/2008 ts
I know a few people who would be called thrill seekers but I think most people are solace seekers. The hurry, hustle and bustle of life has left most of us hungering for quiet. Yet, those who seriously seek solace know that real peace is so much more than just serene sunsets and surroundings. We long for that inner peace, one that rules the heart no matter what our outward circumstance. I find myself seeking this peace because I am in and out of it all through the day. I am one of those who would rather paddle the quiet rivers than run the rapids. I think this is true because I am tired of the rapids in my inner self. We sail in the tempestuous waters of a divided self, always doing things we don’t want to do, and not doing the things we know we should do.
Jesus tells us to comfort our hearts in the knowledge that He is the Prince of Peace and if we allow Him, He will heal all that is fragmented in our lives. I am sure there are rapids left to run. But there is comfort in the knowledge that Christ is guiding me down the river of life into the ocean of His love. To center myself on His every good work and word is to know the peace He has promised. When His quiet waters run in us we can experience peace, even joy in the rapids around us. 6/14/2008 ts
Friday, June 13, 2008
Living as a married person!
“Abide in me, and I in you.” Jo15.4 ESV
I have read these words a thousand times; yet I am drawn to something I have not noticed before. My first impression has always been that Christ is telling me get out of the way and allow Him to live His life in me. Yet, listening this morning I am impressed that He is equally telling me to live “my life” in Him, even as He desires to live His life in me. It comes to mind that He says something similar to this in just a few verses, “I tell you these things that my joy may be in you and your joy made full. Notice the distinctions: His life, my life, His joy, and my joy. I believe that my life must know a kind of death before He can come and live in me. But once dead, are we not raised to a new life just as a married person is not only dead to being single they are alive to the marriage. I think Christ is asking us to marry Him. To do this we must give up our single life. But we must also embrace married life, and live as the married person lives. No doubt we bring to this relationship something of ourselves but something that could never be complete without our union to Him. He is not asking to destroy our individual personalities but to complete them. Here is a Christian mystery. When two people marry both are changed. And while we should not press this to far when speaking of our marriage to Christ, has he not taken a human nature than we might be given the divine. To live in us does Jesus not live as a human? To live in Him surely we must live as divine. And what is it to be married to the Son of God but to love as He loves, serve as He serves and live as He lives. What I am deriving from all of this is that I spend too much time trying not to live a single person when He wants me to put my energies living as His bride. 6/13/2008 ts
I have read these words a thousand times; yet I am drawn to something I have not noticed before. My first impression has always been that Christ is telling me get out of the way and allow Him to live His life in me. Yet, listening this morning I am impressed that He is equally telling me to live “my life” in Him, even as He desires to live His life in me. It comes to mind that He says something similar to this in just a few verses, “I tell you these things that my joy may be in you and your joy made full. Notice the distinctions: His life, my life, His joy, and my joy. I believe that my life must know a kind of death before He can come and live in me. But once dead, are we not raised to a new life just as a married person is not only dead to being single they are alive to the marriage. I think Christ is asking us to marry Him. To do this we must give up our single life. But we must also embrace married life, and live as the married person lives. No doubt we bring to this relationship something of ourselves but something that could never be complete without our union to Him. He is not asking to destroy our individual personalities but to complete them. Here is a Christian mystery. When two people marry both are changed. And while we should not press this to far when speaking of our marriage to Christ, has he not taken a human nature than we might be given the divine. To live in us does Jesus not live as a human? To live in Him surely we must live as divine. And what is it to be married to the Son of God but to love as He loves, serve as He serves and live as He lives. What I am deriving from all of this is that I spend too much time trying not to live a single person when He wants me to put my energies living as His bride. 6/13/2008 ts
Living as a married person!
“Abide in me, and I in you.” Jo15.4 ESV
I have read these words a thousand times; yet I am drawn to something I have not noticed before. My first impression has always been that Christ is telling me get out of the way and allow Him to live His life in me. Yet, listening this morning I am impressed that He is equally telling me to live “my life” in Him, even as He desires to live His life in me. It comes to mind that He says something similar to this in just a few verses, “I tell you these things that my joy may be in you and your joy made full. Notice the distinctions: His life, my life, His joy, and my joy. I believe that my life must know a kind of death before He can come and live in me. But once dead, are we not raised to a new life just as a married person is not only dead to being single they are alive to the marriage. I think Christ is asking us to marry Him. To do this we must give up our single life. But we must also embrace married life, and live as the married person lives. No doubt we bring to this relationship something of ourselves but something that could never be complete without our union to Him. He is not asking to destroy our individual personalities but to complete them. Here is a Christian mystery. When two people marry both are changed. And while we should not press this to far when speaking of our marriage to Christ, has he not taken a human nature than we might be given the divine. To live in us does Jesus not live as a human? To live in Him surely we must live as divine. And what is it to be married to the Son of God but to love as He loves, serve as He serves and live as He lives. What I am deriving from all of this is that I spend too much time trying not to live a single person when He wants me to put my energies living as His bride. 6/13/2008 ts
I have read these words a thousand times; yet I am drawn to something I have not noticed before. My first impression has always been that Christ is telling me get out of the way and allow Him to live His life in me. Yet, listening this morning I am impressed that He is equally telling me to live “my life” in Him, even as He desires to live His life in me. It comes to mind that He says something similar to this in just a few verses, “I tell you these things that my joy may be in you and your joy made full. Notice the distinctions: His life, my life, His joy, and my joy. I believe that my life must know a kind of death before He can come and live in me. But once dead, are we not raised to a new life just as a married person is not only dead to being single they are alive to the marriage. I think Christ is asking us to marry Him. To do this we must give up our single life. But we must also embrace married life, and live as the married person lives. No doubt we bring to this relationship something of ourselves but something that could never be complete without our union to Him. He is not asking to destroy our individual personalities but to complete them. Here is a Christian mystery. When two people marry both are changed. And while we should not press this to far when speaking of our marriage to Christ, has he not taken a human nature than we might be given the divine. To live in us does Jesus not live as a human? To live in Him surely we must live as divine. And what is it to be married to the Son of God but to love as He loves, serve as He serves and live as He lives. What I am deriving from all of this is that I spend too much time trying not to live a single person when He wants me to put my energies living as His bride. 6/13/2008 ts
Thursday, June 12, 2008
When God gives me a hard time!
He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver… Mal3.3 ESV
I had a particularly trying day yesterday. I usually do not bear such days in silence. I bitterly accused the Lord of unnecessarily giving me a hard time. I wake this morning to these words, pre-selected by the Holy Spirit as this days reading.
There is little doubt that God uses hardships to discipline us. And, I do not mean discipline in a punitive but instructive sense. God will try us as silver and gold is tried. Like one who sits over precious metal, God will turn up the heat so that the fire of trial will melt the impurities from us. The process ends when all the impurities have fallen from the silver and the refiner can look over and see His image reflected in the purified metal.
God would see Christ in each of us. A particularly trying day is the instrument of His tender care to remove from us all that does not reflect the image of His Son. As it turns out, my trials are most necessary! God’s speak pointedly, “I will turn my hand against you and will smelt away your dross.” Is.1.25 Praise to the One who loves us so.
I had a particularly trying day yesterday. I usually do not bear such days in silence. I bitterly accused the Lord of unnecessarily giving me a hard time. I wake this morning to these words, pre-selected by the Holy Spirit as this days reading.
There is little doubt that God uses hardships to discipline us. And, I do not mean discipline in a punitive but instructive sense. God will try us as silver and gold is tried. Like one who sits over precious metal, God will turn up the heat so that the fire of trial will melt the impurities from us. The process ends when all the impurities have fallen from the silver and the refiner can look over and see His image reflected in the purified metal.
God would see Christ in each of us. A particularly trying day is the instrument of His tender care to remove from us all that does not reflect the image of His Son. As it turns out, my trials are most necessary! God’s speak pointedly, “I will turn my hand against you and will smelt away your dross.” Is.1.25 Praise to the One who loves us so.
When God gives me a hard time!
He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver… Mal3.3 ESV
I had a particularly trying day yesterday. I usually do not bear such days in silence. I bitterly accused the Lord of unnecessarily giving me a hard time. I wake this morning to these words, pre-selected by the Holy Spirit as this days reading.
There is little doubt that God uses hardships to discipline us. And, I do not mean discipline in a punitive but instructive sense. God will try us as silver and gold is tried. Like one who sits over precious metal, God will turn up the heat so that the fire of trial will melt the impurities from us. The process ends when all the impurities have fallen from the silver and the refiner can look over and see His image reflected in the purified metal.
God would see Christ in each of us. A particularly trying day is the instrument of His tender care to remove from us all that does not reflect the image of His Son. As it turns out, my trials are most necessary! God’s speak pointedly, “I will turn my hand against you and will smelt away your dross.” Is.1.25 Praise to the One who loves us so.
I had a particularly trying day yesterday. I usually do not bear such days in silence. I bitterly accused the Lord of unnecessarily giving me a hard time. I wake this morning to these words, pre-selected by the Holy Spirit as this days reading.
There is little doubt that God uses hardships to discipline us. And, I do not mean discipline in a punitive but instructive sense. God will try us as silver and gold is tried. Like one who sits over precious metal, God will turn up the heat so that the fire of trial will melt the impurities from us. The process ends when all the impurities have fallen from the silver and the refiner can look over and see His image reflected in the purified metal.
God would see Christ in each of us. A particularly trying day is the instrument of His tender care to remove from us all that does not reflect the image of His Son. As it turns out, my trials are most necessary! God’s speak pointedly, “I will turn my hand against you and will smelt away your dross.” Is.1.25 Praise to the One who loves us so.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
God wears running shoes.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” Lk15.20 ESV
These words of Jesus reveal something to us about God’s attitude toward His wayward children. He is said to be a Father, waiting patiently for His wandering son to return home. His eyes constantly scan the horizon always looking for the son’s return. And, when He sees His son coming back, though he is still far away, the Father “runs” to him. He doesn’t wait on the porch until the son arrives. He doesn’t wait for words of apology or make His son grovel before Him and beg forgiveness. He runs to his returning son.
God has no pride in being right nor does He gloat over our failures and the misery we have brought on ourselves. He has no desire to rub it in and say with vengeance, “I told you so!” He “runs” to us! He hastens to embraces us with kindness and lavish us with His kisses. He dresses us in the finest robe and places the royal ring on our hand. He rejoices and celebrates our return. Even now, Father scans the horizon and is wearing His running shoes. 6/11/2008 ts
These words of Jesus reveal something to us about God’s attitude toward His wayward children. He is said to be a Father, waiting patiently for His wandering son to return home. His eyes constantly scan the horizon always looking for the son’s return. And, when He sees His son coming back, though he is still far away, the Father “runs” to him. He doesn’t wait on the porch until the son arrives. He doesn’t wait for words of apology or make His son grovel before Him and beg forgiveness. He runs to his returning son.
God has no pride in being right nor does He gloat over our failures and the misery we have brought on ourselves. He has no desire to rub it in and say with vengeance, “I told you so!” He “runs” to us! He hastens to embraces us with kindness and lavish us with His kisses. He dresses us in the finest robe and places the royal ring on our hand. He rejoices and celebrates our return. Even now, Father scans the horizon and is wearing His running shoes. 6/11/2008 ts
God wears running shoes.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” Lk15.20 ESV
These words of Jesus reveal something to us about God’s attitude toward His wayward children. He is said to be a Father, waiting patiently for His wandering son to return home. His eyes constantly scan the horizon always looking for the son’s return. And, when He sees His son coming back, though he is still far away, the Father “runs” to him. He doesn’t wait on the porch until the son arrives. He doesn’t wait for words of apology or make His son grovel before Him and beg forgiveness. He runs to his returning son.
God has no pride in being right nor does He gloat over our failures and the misery we have brought on ourselves. He has no desire to rub it in and say with vengeance, “I told you so!” He “runs” to us! He hastens to embraces us with kindness and lavish us with His kisses. He dresses us in the finest robe and places the royal ring on our hand. He rejoices and celebrates our return. Even now, Father scans the horizon and is wearing His running shoes. 6/11/2008 ts
These words of Jesus reveal something to us about God’s attitude toward His wayward children. He is said to be a Father, waiting patiently for His wandering son to return home. His eyes constantly scan the horizon always looking for the son’s return. And, when He sees His son coming back, though he is still far away, the Father “runs” to him. He doesn’t wait on the porch until the son arrives. He doesn’t wait for words of apology or make His son grovel before Him and beg forgiveness. He runs to his returning son.
God has no pride in being right nor does He gloat over our failures and the misery we have brought on ourselves. He has no desire to rub it in and say with vengeance, “I told you so!” He “runs” to us! He hastens to embraces us with kindness and lavish us with His kisses. He dresses us in the finest robe and places the royal ring on our hand. He rejoices and celebrates our return. Even now, Father scans the horizon and is wearing His running shoes. 6/11/2008 ts
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
I once was…but now I am.
I once was…but now I am.
We . . . were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. Eph2.3 ESV
It must be a good thing to remember what we were before we came to Christ, if only to declare to ourselves what we are. The Holy Spirit speaks of it often in the Scriptures and it seems in the heart of most Christians. So many Christian songs carry the simple theme, “I once was… but now I am. We were lost, blind, and even dead in our days before the Savior. But now that He has come, we joyfully affirm that we are found, have eyes that can see, and are alive to that new life in Christ. Our relationship with our former self has changed simply because of our relationship with God in Christ. After Augustine came to Christ, it is said that he ran into one of his former lovers. He immediately turned and walked the other way. She began calling to him, Augustine! Augustine! It is I! It is I! He finally turned and faced her, then humbly said, “But it is no longer I.”
Here is a weapon to wield when I am tempted, a song to sing on the field of battle, "I once was…but now I am." 6/10/2008 ts
We . . . were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. Eph2.3 ESV
It must be a good thing to remember what we were before we came to Christ, if only to declare to ourselves what we are. The Holy Spirit speaks of it often in the Scriptures and it seems in the heart of most Christians. So many Christian songs carry the simple theme, “I once was… but now I am. We were lost, blind, and even dead in our days before the Savior. But now that He has come, we joyfully affirm that we are found, have eyes that can see, and are alive to that new life in Christ. Our relationship with our former self has changed simply because of our relationship with God in Christ. After Augustine came to Christ, it is said that he ran into one of his former lovers. He immediately turned and walked the other way. She began calling to him, Augustine! Augustine! It is I! It is I! He finally turned and faced her, then humbly said, “But it is no longer I.”
Here is a weapon to wield when I am tempted, a song to sing on the field of battle, "I once was…but now I am." 6/10/2008 ts
I once was…but now I am.
I once was…but now I am.
We . . . were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. Eph2.3 ESV
It must be a good thing to remember what we were before we came to Christ, if only to declare to ourselves what we are. The Holy Spirit speaks of it often in the Scriptures and it seems in the heart of most Christians. So many Christian songs carry the simple theme, “I once was… but now I am. We were lost, blind, and even dead in our days before the Savior. But now that He has come, we joyfully affirm that we are found, have eyes that can see, and are alive to that new life in Christ. Our relationship with our former self has changed simply because of our relationship with God in Christ. After Augustine came to Christ, it is said that he ran into one of his former lovers. He immediately turned and walked the other way. She began calling to him, Augustine! Augustine! It is I! It is I! He finally turned and faced her, then humbly said, “But it is no longer I.”
Here is a weapon to wield when I am tempted, a song to sing on the field of battle, "I once was…but now I am." 6/10/2008 ts
We . . . were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. Eph2.3 ESV
It must be a good thing to remember what we were before we came to Christ, if only to declare to ourselves what we are. The Holy Spirit speaks of it often in the Scriptures and it seems in the heart of most Christians. So many Christian songs carry the simple theme, “I once was… but now I am. We were lost, blind, and even dead in our days before the Savior. But now that He has come, we joyfully affirm that we are found, have eyes that can see, and are alive to that new life in Christ. Our relationship with our former self has changed simply because of our relationship with God in Christ. After Augustine came to Christ, it is said that he ran into one of his former lovers. He immediately turned and walked the other way. She began calling to him, Augustine! Augustine! It is I! It is I! He finally turned and faced her, then humbly said, “But it is no longer I.”
Here is a weapon to wield when I am tempted, a song to sing on the field of battle, "I once was…but now I am." 6/10/2008 ts
Monday, June 9, 2008
Bone tired…refreshment to the bones
Bone tired…refreshment to the bones
“I…know how to sustain with a word him who is weary.” Is.50.4a ESV
Many things weary us in life but our Savior knows how to strengthen the weary. His words are grace poured out. When we lose our way in the darkness of doubt, His word shines the light of certainty. When strength fails, His instruction is adrenaline to the heart. When discouragement weighs in upon us, He speaks and fills the air with renewed hope. He always says the right thing and says it at the right time. Is there any way to calculate the value of His wisdom or the power of His encouragements?
P.S. Right before we went to bed last night I confessed to my wife that I was tired, what we call “bone tired”-a deep weariness of the soul. The verse above was of course the selected reading for the day. The later part of the verse reads, “Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.” Is.50.4b 6/9/2008 ts
“I…know how to sustain with a word him who is weary.” Is.50.4a ESV
Many things weary us in life but our Savior knows how to strengthen the weary. His words are grace poured out. When we lose our way in the darkness of doubt, His word shines the light of certainty. When strength fails, His instruction is adrenaline to the heart. When discouragement weighs in upon us, He speaks and fills the air with renewed hope. He always says the right thing and says it at the right time. Is there any way to calculate the value of His wisdom or the power of His encouragements?
P.S. Right before we went to bed last night I confessed to my wife that I was tired, what we call “bone tired”-a deep weariness of the soul. The verse above was of course the selected reading for the day. The later part of the verse reads, “Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.” Is.50.4b 6/9/2008 ts
Bone tired…refreshment to the bones
Bone tired…refreshment to the bones
“I…know how to sustain with a word him who is weary.” Is.50.4a ESV
Many things weary us in life but our Savior knows how to strengthen the weary. His words are grace poured out. When we lose our way in the darkness of doubt, His word shines the light of certainty. When strength fails, His instruction is adrenaline to the heart. When discouragement weighs in upon us, He speaks and fills the air with renewed hope. He always says the right thing and says it at the right time. Is there any way to calculate the value of His wisdom or the power of His encouragements?
P.S. Right before we went to bed last night I confessed to my wife that I was tired, what we call “bone tired”-a deep weariness of the soul. The verse above was of course the selected reading for the day. The later part of the verse reads, “Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.” Is.50.4b 6/9/2008 ts
“I…know how to sustain with a word him who is weary.” Is.50.4a ESV
Many things weary us in life but our Savior knows how to strengthen the weary. His words are grace poured out. When we lose our way in the darkness of doubt, His word shines the light of certainty. When strength fails, His instruction is adrenaline to the heart. When discouragement weighs in upon us, He speaks and fills the air with renewed hope. He always says the right thing and says it at the right time. Is there any way to calculate the value of His wisdom or the power of His encouragements?
P.S. Right before we went to bed last night I confessed to my wife that I was tired, what we call “bone tired”-a deep weariness of the soul. The verse above was of course the selected reading for the day. The later part of the verse reads, “Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.” Is.50.4b 6/9/2008 ts
Friday, June 6, 2008
I tend to agree with the latter.
“He will quiet you by his love.” Zeph3.17 ESV
“He will be quiet in His love” Zeph3.17 NASB
We say that a person, “keeps their peace, or “holds their tongue,” and by it we mean that they are practicing self-restraint. There is some room in translating this verse, hence, I have offered two translations. It either says that God will keep us quiet in His love, or that God will keep Himself quiet in His love. The former might mean that we are so overwhelmed by God’s love that we will be speechless. The latter may mean that while God could say something, He chooses because of love to remain silent. I tend to agree with the latter translation.
Love often chooses silence as the best response to someone’s immaturity. Because it is never rude, love is tactful, especially in its response to adolescent behavior. Love doesn’t always say what could be said. God could all the time be correcting and chiding us, but He instead keeps His peace in love. Just as a loving parent will overlook the rash words of an immature teenager, God is patient with His own and gracious in His responses to us. I am reminded of the professor who told his students that He would prove that there is no God. He then jumped up on his desk and yelled toward the ceiling, "God if you are there, prove it to us all and strike me dead." There is of course some room translating what happened next. The silence that followed could mean that God was not there or He was there and lovingly held His peace. I tend to agree with the latter. 6/6/2008 ts
“He will be quiet in His love” Zeph3.17 NASB
We say that a person, “keeps their peace, or “holds their tongue,” and by it we mean that they are practicing self-restraint. There is some room in translating this verse, hence, I have offered two translations. It either says that God will keep us quiet in His love, or that God will keep Himself quiet in His love. The former might mean that we are so overwhelmed by God’s love that we will be speechless. The latter may mean that while God could say something, He chooses because of love to remain silent. I tend to agree with the latter translation.
Love often chooses silence as the best response to someone’s immaturity. Because it is never rude, love is tactful, especially in its response to adolescent behavior. Love doesn’t always say what could be said. God could all the time be correcting and chiding us, but He instead keeps His peace in love. Just as a loving parent will overlook the rash words of an immature teenager, God is patient with His own and gracious in His responses to us. I am reminded of the professor who told his students that He would prove that there is no God. He then jumped up on his desk and yelled toward the ceiling, "God if you are there, prove it to us all and strike me dead." There is of course some room translating what happened next. The silence that followed could mean that God was not there or He was there and lovingly held His peace. I tend to agree with the latter. 6/6/2008 ts
I tend to agree with the latter.
“He will quiet you by his love.” Zeph3.17 ESV
“He will be quiet in His love” Zeph3.17 NASB
We say that a person, “keeps their peace, or “holds their tongue,” and by it we mean that they are practicing self-restraint. There is some room in translating this verse, hence, I have offered two translations. It either says that God will keep us quiet in His love, or that God will keep Himself quiet in His love. The former might mean that we are so overwhelmed by God’s love that we will be speechless. The latter may mean that while God could say something, He chooses because of love to remain silent. I tend to agree with the latter translation.
Love often chooses silence as the best response to someone’s immaturity. Because it is never rude, love is tactful, especially in its response to adolescent behavior. Love doesn’t always say what could be said. God could all the time be correcting and chiding us, but He instead keeps His peace in love. Just as a loving parent will overlook the rash words of an immature teenager, God is patient with His own and gracious in His responses to us. I am reminded of the professor who told his students that He would prove that there is no God. He then jumped up on his desk and yelled toward the ceiling, "God if you are there, prove it to us all and strike me dead." There is of course some room translating what happened next. The silence that followed could mean that God was not there or He was there and lovingly held His peace. I tend to agree with the latter. 6/6/2008 ts
“He will be quiet in His love” Zeph3.17 NASB
We say that a person, “keeps their peace, or “holds their tongue,” and by it we mean that they are practicing self-restraint. There is some room in translating this verse, hence, I have offered two translations. It either says that God will keep us quiet in His love, or that God will keep Himself quiet in His love. The former might mean that we are so overwhelmed by God’s love that we will be speechless. The latter may mean that while God could say something, He chooses because of love to remain silent. I tend to agree with the latter translation.
Love often chooses silence as the best response to someone’s immaturity. Because it is never rude, love is tactful, especially in its response to adolescent behavior. Love doesn’t always say what could be said. God could all the time be correcting and chiding us, but He instead keeps His peace in love. Just as a loving parent will overlook the rash words of an immature teenager, God is patient with His own and gracious in His responses to us. I am reminded of the professor who told his students that He would prove that there is no God. He then jumped up on his desk and yelled toward the ceiling, "God if you are there, prove it to us all and strike me dead." There is of course some room translating what happened next. The silence that followed could mean that God was not there or He was there and lovingly held His peace. I tend to agree with the latter. 6/6/2008 ts
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Breathtaking!
“What do you have that you did not receive?” 1Cor4.7 ESV
When we express thanks to God for some blessing, we must first borrow from Him the very breath we use to do so. We give nothing to God that we have not first received from Him. Knowing this should help us deal with any temptation to boast about our accomplishments. Even our thanksgiving is first breathtaking. 6/5/2008 ts
When we express thanks to God for some blessing, we must first borrow from Him the very breath we use to do so. We give nothing to God that we have not first received from Him. Knowing this should help us deal with any temptation to boast about our accomplishments. Even our thanksgiving is first breathtaking. 6/5/2008 ts
Breathtaking!
“What do you have that you did not receive?” 1Cor4.7 ESV
When we express thanks to God for some blessing, we must first borrow from Him the very breath we use to do so. We give nothing to God that we have not first received from Him. Knowing this should help us deal with any temptation to boast about our accomplishments. Even our thanksgiving is first breathtaking. 6/5/2008 ts
When we express thanks to God for some blessing, we must first borrow from Him the very breath we use to do so. We give nothing to God that we have not first received from Him. Knowing this should help us deal with any temptation to boast about our accomplishments. Even our thanksgiving is first breathtaking. 6/5/2008 ts
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
My moneys on the only One with an empty tomb!
“Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” Jo2.19 ESV
I was talking with a new friend the other day about the joys of mountain biking. He began telling me about another biker who was recently diagnosed with cancer and that his biking days are over. I could tell that the weight of it all, was hard on him and the unspoken word that life is too short was lingering in the air. I found it awkward to tell my friend that my hope as a Christian is to be mountain biking long after this version of my body wears out. I of course believe this as no accomplishment of my own but the gracious gift of God to all who are in Christ. Our hope of eternal life is traced to these words of Jesus before his crucifixion.
It is here that Jesus separates himself from all the other prophets and teachers of the many world religions. Jesus not only told us to love one another, as do many other religions, He not only taught morals, as did Buddha, Confucius and Mohammed. He told us that He was greater than death and offered his resurrected body as the proof of it. I value even practice many Buddhist teachings about life. Truth after all is truth. But, when it comes down to my own hope in the after life, my moneys on the only One with an empty tomb. As one brother put it and I paraphrase, all roads do not lead to God; most roads lead nowhere. But, and this is an important but, there is no road where God will not go to help bring us to trust His one and only Son. 6/4/2008 ts
I was talking with a new friend the other day about the joys of mountain biking. He began telling me about another biker who was recently diagnosed with cancer and that his biking days are over. I could tell that the weight of it all, was hard on him and the unspoken word that life is too short was lingering in the air. I found it awkward to tell my friend that my hope as a Christian is to be mountain biking long after this version of my body wears out. I of course believe this as no accomplishment of my own but the gracious gift of God to all who are in Christ. Our hope of eternal life is traced to these words of Jesus before his crucifixion.
It is here that Jesus separates himself from all the other prophets and teachers of the many world religions. Jesus not only told us to love one another, as do many other religions, He not only taught morals, as did Buddha, Confucius and Mohammed. He told us that He was greater than death and offered his resurrected body as the proof of it. I value even practice many Buddhist teachings about life. Truth after all is truth. But, when it comes down to my own hope in the after life, my moneys on the only One with an empty tomb. As one brother put it and I paraphrase, all roads do not lead to God; most roads lead nowhere. But, and this is an important but, there is no road where God will not go to help bring us to trust His one and only Son. 6/4/2008 ts
My moneys on the only One with an empty tomb!
“Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” Jo2.19 ESV
I was talking with a new friend the other day about the joys of mountain biking. He began telling me about another biker who was recently diagnosed with cancer and that his biking days are over. I could tell that the weight of it all, was hard on him and the unspoken word that life is too short was lingering in the air. I found it awkward to tell my friend that my hope as a Christian is to be mountain biking long after this version of my body wears out. I of course believe this as no accomplishment of my own but the gracious gift of God to all who are in Christ. Our hope of eternal life is traced to these words of Jesus before his crucifixion.
It is here that Jesus separates himself from all the other prophets and teachers of the many world religions. Jesus not only told us to love one another, as do many other religions, He not only taught morals, as did Buddha, Confucius and Mohammed. He told us that He was greater than death and offered his resurrected body as the proof of it. I value even practice many Buddhist teachings about life. Truth after all is truth. But, when it comes down to my own hope in the after life, my moneys on the only One with an empty tomb. As one brother put it and I paraphrase, all roads do not lead to God; most roads lead nowhere. But, and this is an important but, there is no road where God will not go to help bring us to trust His one and only Son. 6/4/2008 ts
I was talking with a new friend the other day about the joys of mountain biking. He began telling me about another biker who was recently diagnosed with cancer and that his biking days are over. I could tell that the weight of it all, was hard on him and the unspoken word that life is too short was lingering in the air. I found it awkward to tell my friend that my hope as a Christian is to be mountain biking long after this version of my body wears out. I of course believe this as no accomplishment of my own but the gracious gift of God to all who are in Christ. Our hope of eternal life is traced to these words of Jesus before his crucifixion.
It is here that Jesus separates himself from all the other prophets and teachers of the many world religions. Jesus not only told us to love one another, as do many other religions, He not only taught morals, as did Buddha, Confucius and Mohammed. He told us that He was greater than death and offered his resurrected body as the proof of it. I value even practice many Buddhist teachings about life. Truth after all is truth. But, when it comes down to my own hope in the after life, my moneys on the only One with an empty tomb. As one brother put it and I paraphrase, all roads do not lead to God; most roads lead nowhere. But, and this is an important but, there is no road where God will not go to help bring us to trust His one and only Son. 6/4/2008 ts
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Cell phones are amazing!
But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief. 1Thess5.4 ESV
I have a hazy memory of a scene in a movie where a priest is suddenly facing death and in a panic turns to the person with him and says, “I’m not ready! I’m not ready!” He was speaking of course of being ready to meet God. And, whether Christ comes for us in death or in the clouds, life should be lived in readiness. Perhaps the best way to do this is simply talk with Him in prayer now and continue the dialogue until we meet face to face.
Brenda and I do this all the time in Wal-Mart using our cell phones. Recently we had split up to do some shopping and I called to find out how she was doing and where she was. She rounded an isle on the other side of the store and said, “I'm looking at you.” We waved, started walking toward each other talking all the while on our cells, right up to the moment where we were face to face. Cell phones are amazing, almost as amazing as prayer! Wouldn’t it be neat to round the corner in prayer and meet Christ face to face in the clouds? 6/3/2008 ts
I have a hazy memory of a scene in a movie where a priest is suddenly facing death and in a panic turns to the person with him and says, “I’m not ready! I’m not ready!” He was speaking of course of being ready to meet God. And, whether Christ comes for us in death or in the clouds, life should be lived in readiness. Perhaps the best way to do this is simply talk with Him in prayer now and continue the dialogue until we meet face to face.
Brenda and I do this all the time in Wal-Mart using our cell phones. Recently we had split up to do some shopping and I called to find out how she was doing and where she was. She rounded an isle on the other side of the store and said, “I'm looking at you.” We waved, started walking toward each other talking all the while on our cells, right up to the moment where we were face to face. Cell phones are amazing, almost as amazing as prayer! Wouldn’t it be neat to round the corner in prayer and meet Christ face to face in the clouds? 6/3/2008 ts
Cell phones are amazing!
But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief. 1Thess5.4 ESV
I have a hazy memory of a scene in a movie where a priest is suddenly facing death and in a panic turns to the person with him and says, “I’m not ready! I’m not ready!” He was speaking of course of being ready to meet God. And, whether Christ comes for us in death or in the clouds, life should be lived in readiness. Perhaps the best way to do this is simply talk with Him in prayer now and continue the dialogue until we meet face to face.
Brenda and I do this all the time in Wal-Mart using our cell phones. Recently we had split up to do some shopping and I called to find out how she was doing and where she was. She rounded an isle on the other side of the store and said, “I'm looking at you.” We waved, started walking toward each other talking all the while on our cells, right up to the moment where we were face to face. Cell phones are amazing, almost as amazing as prayer! Wouldn’t it be neat to round the corner in prayer and meet Christ face to face in the clouds? 6/3/2008 ts
I have a hazy memory of a scene in a movie where a priest is suddenly facing death and in a panic turns to the person with him and says, “I’m not ready! I’m not ready!” He was speaking of course of being ready to meet God. And, whether Christ comes for us in death or in the clouds, life should be lived in readiness. Perhaps the best way to do this is simply talk with Him in prayer now and continue the dialogue until we meet face to face.
Brenda and I do this all the time in Wal-Mart using our cell phones. Recently we had split up to do some shopping and I called to find out how she was doing and where she was. She rounded an isle on the other side of the store and said, “I'm looking at you.” We waved, started walking toward each other talking all the while on our cells, right up to the moment where we were face to face. Cell phones are amazing, almost as amazing as prayer! Wouldn’t it be neat to round the corner in prayer and meet Christ face to face in the clouds? 6/3/2008 ts
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