“Some say eat or be eaten, Some say live and let live

But all are agreed as they join the stampede
You should never take more than you give.” Elton John-Tim Rice

“It is you who have devoured the vineyard, the spoil of the poor is in your houses.” Is.3.14 ESV

God has been so very good to us; His blessings abound! An abundance of goodness flows from His gracious hand, a precious river of bounty. Do we really believe for a moment that the Father would want us to dam up this river and stop the flow of His blessing from reaching those living further downstream? It is never proper to horde what God sends to us and those whose hearts are touched by grace know this. The thankful heart will take only what is needed and joyfully pass the plate of blessing around the table and especially into the hand of the poor. 11/26/2008 ts

“Some say eat or be eaten, Some say live and let live

But all are agreed as they join the stampede
You should never take more than you give.” Elton John-Tim Rice

“It is you who have devoured the vineyard, the spoil of the poor is in your houses.” Is.3.14 ESV

God has been so very good to us; His blessings abound! An abundance of goodness flows from His gracious hand, a precious river of bounty. Do we really believe for a moment that the Father would want us to dam up this river and stop the flow of His blessing from reaching those living further downstream? It is never proper to horde what God sends to us and those whose hearts are touched by grace know this. The thankful heart will take only what is needed and joyfully pass the plate of blessing around the table and especially into the hand of the poor. 11/26/2008 ts

“When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others.” Peace Pilgrim

“…neither shall they learn war anymore.” Is.2.4 ESV

I do not think that when Jesus said that the Kingdom of God is within you, He meant that it was exclusively within us. God’s Kingdom is certainly His rule in our hearts but I also believe that it flows from us into the world around us. The Kingdom of Heaven may begin in our hearts but all who find peace with God will be lead by His Spirit to be peacemakers in the world. There are many levels to this I’m sure but one impetus would be helping others to find the peace of Jesus in their heart. Every other peace movement should serve this good news--that in Christ, God is not counting the sins of men against them. Another part of that would be that we also do not hold the sin of others against them and practice the peace of forgiveness. 11/25/2008 ts

“When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others.” Peace Pilgrim

“…neither shall they learn war anymore.” Is.2.4 ESV

I do not think that when Jesus said that the Kingdom of God is within you, He meant that it was exclusively within us. God’s Kingdom is certainly His rule in our hearts but I also believe that it flows from us into the world around us. The Kingdom of Heaven may begin in our hearts but all who find peace with God will be lead by His Spirit to be peacemakers in the world. There are many levels to this I’m sure but one impetus would be helping others to find the peace of Jesus in their heart. Every other peace movement should serve this good news--that in Christ, God is not counting the sins of men against them. Another part of that would be that we also do not hold the sin of others against them and practice the peace of forgiveness. 11/25/2008 ts

It is our choices… that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities. Albus Dumbledore (J. K. Rowling)

If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land…” Is1.19 ESV

What do my choices tell me about myself? Well, my choices tell me that I need help. And, when Christ came into my life, He brought that help. Because of Him, we not only have forgiveness of our sins, He creates in us a desire to choose the Father’s will. Now one thing He did not do, and experience affirms this, He did not remove our old desires. The truth is that Christians still want things that are not good for them. And, as a result, all of us live conflicted lives. Evidently, God’s decision to leave us with these fallen desires expresses His wisdom. By doing so, He is giving to each of us, with His help of course, the chance to take ownership of our new desires and as we do, these desires for God’s pleasure will slowly take ownership of us. We ultimately become what we do. The gift of Christ is more than forgiveness; it is transformation. Only transformed people who desire only goodness will be happy living in the presence of Absolute Goodness. Transformation can only go so far in this place. For now, we must content ourselves with this conflict in us, embrace it if you will, until death or rapture removes all other desires.
11/25/2008 ts

It is our choices… that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities. Albus Dumbledore (J. K. Rowling)

If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land…” Is1.19 ESV

What do my choices tell me about myself? Well, my choices tell me that I need help. And, when Christ came into my life, He brought that help. Because of Him, we not only have forgiveness of our sins, He creates in us a desire to choose the Father’s will. Now one thing He did not do, and experience affirms this, He did not remove our old desires. The truth is that Christians still want things that are not good for them. And, as a result, all of us live conflicted lives. Evidently, God’s decision to leave us with these fallen desires expresses His wisdom. By doing so, He is giving to each of us, with His help of course, the chance to take ownership of our new desires and as we do, these desires for God’s pleasure will slowly take ownership of us. We ultimately become what we do. The gift of Christ is more than forgiveness; it is transformation. Only transformed people who desire only goodness will be happy living in the presence of Absolute Goodness. Transformation can only go so far in this place. For now, we must content ourselves with this conflict in us, embrace it if you will, until death or rapture removes all other desires.
11/25/2008 ts

Church without walls

“…so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Rom12.5 ESV

It seems so very strange when your own body has turned against you. Cancer cells are rogue cells. They go their own way, do their own thing, and by doing so they not only fail to contribute to the health of the whole they sap life from it. It is entirely possible for each of us to exist as a healthy cell to the body of Christ or else a rogue cancer cell. There is no doubt that we are connected to one another whether we know it or not. And, as such, we are contributing either unity of life and health or sickness and death. God has made us our brother’s keeper. Every child should be able to call every mature woman mother, every mature man father, and all others brothers and sisters. We are a living tribe, meant to share each other’s trials, and joys. God wake us to this. Let us commit ourselves to church without walls, and work for the spiritual and physical health of those around us. Let us live each day with dynamic interaction, taking sincere interest in each other’s well being and using what resources we have to love one another. 11/20/2008 ts

Church without walls

“…so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Rom12.5 ESV

It seems so very strange when your own body has turned against you. Cancer cells are rogue cells. They go their own way, do their own thing, and by doing so they not only fail to contribute to the health of the whole they sap life from it. It is entirely possible for each of us to exist as a healthy cell to the body of Christ or else a rogue cancer cell. There is no doubt that we are connected to one another whether we know it or not. And, as such, we are contributing either unity of life and health or sickness and death. God has made us our brother’s keeper. Every child should be able to call every mature woman mother, every mature man father, and all others brothers and sisters. We are a living tribe, meant to share each other’s trials, and joys. God wake us to this. Let us commit ourselves to church without walls, and work for the spiritual and physical health of those around us. Let us live each day with dynamic interaction, taking sincere interest in each other’s well being and using what resources we have to love one another. 11/20/2008 ts

“While we are free to choose our actions, we are not free to choose the consequences of our actions.” Stephen R. Covey

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything. 1Co.6.12 ESV

The Holy Spirit will often lead us to restrict our freedom for several good reasons. One is that just because I am free to do something does not mean I should or that it is profitable. I think we are wise to ask ourselves, “What is the profit in doing this.” Second He may lead us to deny certain freedoms if our participation in them will result in the loss of liberty. It is better to willingly give up my freedom to do something than to lose my ability to say no to it.

“While we are free to choose our actions, we are not free to choose the consequences of our actions.” Stephen R. Covey

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything. 1Co.6.12 ESV

The Holy Spirit will often lead us to restrict our freedom for several good reasons. One is that just because I am free to do something does not mean I should or that it is profitable. I think we are wise to ask ourselves, “What is the profit in doing this.” Second He may lead us to deny certain freedoms if our participation in them will result in the loss of liberty. It is better to willingly give up my freedom to do something than to lose my ability to say no to it.

“The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time.” Abraham Lincoln

“How long shall it be till the end of these wonders?” Dan.12.5 ESV

It is notable that after the angel answered Daniel’s question, Daniel himself replied, “I heard, but I did not understand.” I would have to say that even though many have offered detailed summaries of prophetic scripture, the lack of agreement among Christians, means that for all practical purposes, we too have heard but do not understand much of what the Bible says about the last days. I do not think that Christians should be distressed about this, for we are told that when the time comes “those who are wise shall understand.” It may be that the unfolding of certain details concerning the end times is a need to know kind of thing. In other words, if you need to know, you will know. God has always provided His people with everything they need for life and godliness. And, when the time comes, if perhaps we are around to see it, I am sure that whatever is needed, the Spirit of Jesus will provide. 11/19/2008 ts

“The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time.” Abraham Lincoln

“How long shall it be till the end of these wonders?” Dan.12.5 ESV

It is notable that after the angel answered Daniel’s question, Daniel himself replied, “I heard, but I did not understand.” I would have to say that even though many have offered detailed summaries of prophetic scripture, the lack of agreement among Christians, means that for all practical purposes, we too have heard but do not understand much of what the Bible says about the last days. I do not think that Christians should be distressed about this, for we are told that when the time comes “those who are wise shall understand.” It may be that the unfolding of certain details concerning the end times is a need to know kind of thing. In other words, if you need to know, you will know. God has always provided His people with everything they need for life and godliness. And, when the time comes, if perhaps we are around to see it, I am sure that whatever is needed, the Spirit of Jesus will provide. 11/19/2008 ts

An Aroma of Autumn

“As a pleasing aroma I will accept you…” Ezek.20.41 ESV

There is for me an aroma of autumn,
a nutty sort of smell I sometimes catch in the morning air,
some elusive leafy, earthy fragrance that stirs my soul,
that somehow captures, if only for a moment,
and if only as a delicate scent,
all I believe glory to be.
This redolence of memory and musing wakens me
and all at once there rushes in me
the warmth of family,
the wonderment of childhood,
the excitement of the holidays,
a thanksgiving feast,
and in that single focused moment I know God’s love for me,
and catch a whiff of that divine life that is mine in Christ.
I should like to leave this world,
drawing this precious air as my last breath
and find it new as my first breath,
in His blessed presence. 11/13/2008 ts

An Aroma of Autumn

“As a pleasing aroma I will accept you…” Ezek.20.41 ESV

There is for me an aroma of autumn,
a nutty sort of smell I sometimes catch in the morning air,
some elusive leafy, earthy fragrance that stirs my soul,
that somehow captures, if only for a moment,
and if only as a delicate scent,
all I believe glory to be.
This redolence of memory and musing wakens me
and all at once there rushes in me
the warmth of family,
the wonderment of childhood,
the excitement of the holidays,
a thanksgiving feast,
and in that single focused moment I know God’s love for me,
and catch a whiff of that divine life that is mine in Christ.
I should like to leave this world,
drawing this precious air as my last breath
and find it new as my first breath,
in His blessed presence. 11/13/2008 ts

“Shame is pride's cloak.” William Blake

“…and some of the wise shall stumble, so that they may be refined, purified, and made white…” Dan10.35 ESV

All the sons and daughters of Adam fall short, so even the wise will falter. But though a righteous man falls seven times, he will rise again. And, though the wise stumble, the Spirit of holiness will have them learn from their mistakes. A child falls many times learning to walk, why would we expect otherwise learning to walk with the Spirit? It is in weakness that God’s strength is made perfect and often in failure that a gracious God instructs the heart. What is left for us after a day of moral failure but to accept His forgiveness, get back up, take His hand and try again? I think the hardest part may be getting over our wounded pride. Perhaps when our pride is wounded we should just let it die. This may be the very reason He allowed us to fall anyway. 11/18/2008 ts

“Shame is pride's cloak.” William Blake

“…and some of the wise shall stumble, so that they may be refined, purified, and made white…” Dan10.35 ESV

All the sons and daughters of Adam fall short, so even the wise will falter. But though a righteous man falls seven times, he will rise again. And, though the wise stumble, the Spirit of holiness will have them learn from their mistakes. A child falls many times learning to walk, why would we expect otherwise learning to walk with the Spirit? It is in weakness that God’s strength is made perfect and often in failure that a gracious God instructs the heart. What is left for us after a day of moral failure but to accept His forgiveness, get back up, take His hand and try again? I think the hardest part may be getting over our wounded pride. Perhaps when our pride is wounded we should just let it die. This may be the very reason He allowed us to fall anyway. 11/18/2008 ts

“Our soul is stuffed with small things, and there is no room for the great.” John Piper

“I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, for the full three weeks.” Dan10.3 ESV

I must confess that I have never been one to fast in order to help my prayers, at least not deliberately so. Every time I tried, I could think about was my empty growling stomach. There was this one time in my life where I experienced what I like to call a natural fast, I hardly ate, lost a great deal of weight and which reflected great emotional anguish before God. It wasn’t a planned fast; I simply lost my appetite because of the crisis I was facing. The crisis, as it often is for people being dealt with by the Holy Spirit, was over the guilt and weight of my sinful actions.
Jesus fasted; He also gave instructions to us about it, mainly about not doing it for show. I tend to think that a sincere fast may lie somewhere between a simple resolve for prayer and refraining from eating because the things you are praying about have so gripped your soul that you have lost your appetite. In this sense, fasting isn’t so much sacrificing food to get God’s attention or removing a distraction so you may pray, though this latter reason would be better than the former. I tend to think the best and truest fast is having one’s heart so moved by your concerns, and, you are so focused in your intercessions, that you simply forget to eat or else have no appetite for it. 11/17/2008 ts

“Our soul is stuffed with small things, and there is no room for the great.” John Piper

“I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, for the full three weeks.” Dan10.3 ESV

I must confess that I have never been one to fast in order to help my prayers, at least not deliberately so. Every time I tried, I could think about was my empty growling stomach. There was this one time in my life where I experienced what I like to call a natural fast, I hardly ate, lost a great deal of weight and which reflected great emotional anguish before God. It wasn’t a planned fast; I simply lost my appetite because of the crisis I was facing. The crisis, as it often is for people being dealt with by the Holy Spirit, was over the guilt and weight of my sinful actions.
Jesus fasted; He also gave instructions to us about it, mainly about not doing it for show. I tend to think that a sincere fast may lie somewhere between a simple resolve for prayer and refraining from eating because the things you are praying about have so gripped your soul that you have lost your appetite. In this sense, fasting isn’t so much sacrificing food to get God’s attention or removing a distraction so you may pray, though this latter reason would be better than the former. I tend to think the best and truest fast is having one’s heart so moved by your concerns, and, you are so focused in your intercessions, that you simply forget to eat or else have no appetite for it. 11/17/2008 ts

“The prayer you prayed today may have been answered yesterday.”

“At the beginning of your pleas for mercy a word went out and I have come to tell it to you, for you are greatly loved.” Dan.9.23 ESV

Our precious Lord is quick to listen to our pleas for mercy. Even before there is a word on our tongue He knows it completely. His knowledge of our prayers is more than just knowing that we would pray but we pray because He knows and inhabits our prayers, indeed He has known our prayers before all time. Our great God has woven our intercessions into the fabric of the universe and all that is accomplished by them has first come from His gracious hand. We pray because He wills us to do so, because He desires to work some good in the world. He is the magnet that draws the metal of all prayers heavenward and is sending down the answer at the beginning of our pleas for mercy. So great is His love for His people, that even now there waits an angel to leap from God’s presence in answer to prayers forming in our hearts but yet expressed. “Before you call I will answer,” (Is.65.24). Pray dear saint and become the instrument our God’s great mercy in the world. 11/14/2008 ts

“The prayer you prayed today may have been answered yesterday.”

“At the beginning of your pleas for mercy a word went out and I have come to tell it to you, for you are greatly loved.” Dan.9.23 ESV

Our precious Lord is quick to listen to our pleas for mercy. Even before there is a word on our tongue He knows it completely. His knowledge of our prayers is more than just knowing that we would pray but we pray because He knows and inhabits our prayers, indeed He has known our prayers before all time. Our great God has woven our intercessions into the fabric of the universe and all that is accomplished by them has first come from His gracious hand. We pray because He wills us to do so, because He desires to work some good in the world. He is the magnet that draws the metal of all prayers heavenward and is sending down the answer at the beginning of our pleas for mercy. So great is His love for His people, that even now there waits an angel to leap from God’s presence in answer to prayers forming in our hearts but yet expressed. “Before you call I will answer,” (Is.65.24). Pray dear saint and become the instrument our God’s great mercy in the world. 11/14/2008 ts

“Sometimes questions are more important than answers.” Nancy Willard

“The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” Gen.3.13 ESV

Beyond this general attack, Christians today face a barrage of social and moral concerns where we may be sure that our enemies are trying to sow deceit. Consider modern discussions on: religious tolerance; the role of women in the church; gay Christians; stem cell research; abortion; assisted suicide and cloning to mention just a few. It would be foolish to think that our enemy is not looking for ways to deceive not only the church at large but more pointedly the individual Christian. Every battle is after all, won or lost one soul at a time. And, that being the case, it would be prudent for me to ferret out all the ways the enemy is deceiving me. I will of course need help with this, which means that I of course will need humility to receive such help. I say again that it is within the fellowship of the past and the present community of the saints that we find such help. But we must foster in our fellowship the freedom to express our doubts and questions even if they are about orthodox beliefs and practices. As one brother kindly put it, “It's hard to love the questions when you live in a society obsessed with answers…a good Christian is to have all the answers and to never admit you have any questions.” Without heartfelt questions how will God lead us to the answers that transform the heart? 11/13/2008 ts

“Sometimes questions are more important than answers.” Nancy Willard

“The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” Gen.3.13 ESV

Beyond this general attack, Christians today face a barrage of social and moral concerns where we may be sure that our enemies are trying to sow deceit. Consider modern discussions on: religious tolerance; the role of women in the church; gay Christians; stem cell research; abortion; assisted suicide and cloning to mention just a few. It would be foolish to think that our enemy is not looking for ways to deceive not only the church at large but more pointedly the individual Christian. Every battle is after all, won or lost one soul at a time. And, that being the case, it would be prudent for me to ferret out all the ways the enemy is deceiving me. I will of course need help with this, which means that I of course will need humility to receive such help. I say again that it is within the fellowship of the past and the present community of the saints that we find such help. But we must foster in our fellowship the freedom to express our doubts and questions even if they are about orthodox beliefs and practices. As one brother kindly put it, “It's hard to love the questions when you live in a society obsessed with answers…a good Christian is to have all the answers and to never admit you have any questions.” Without heartfelt questions how will God lead us to the answers that transform the heart? 11/13/2008 ts

“Live your beliefs and you can turn the world around.” Henry David Thoreau

“Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.” James1.16 ESV

Now there are difficulties for each generation facing the deception of the prince of darkness working in the sons of disobedience. One, which appears common to all, would be demonic efforts to deceive us about our own obedience. It has proven easy for our enemy to focus our energies on Christian beliefs and lead us to neglect Christian practices and at times, vice-versa. But one modern day prophet has challenged the church by stating that many of us think we are Christians because we believe “the right stuff,” when we should be concerned about how we are living and loving. Are we right to believe that someone is more a Christian because they believe in the virgin birth but they do not seek justice for the poor or open their home to strangers? I am not sure this would pass the test of Jesus found in Matt. 25. There is no doubt that the issue at judgment will ultimately take into account both our beliefs and practices. Faith without works is dead and so works without faith is pride. Any teaching that lulls us to neglect one over the other serves the deceitful spirits of this passing age. All of us need to consider with equal measure the soundness our beliefs and the seriousness of living and loving others. To be continued

“Live your beliefs and you can turn the world around.” Henry David Thoreau

“Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.” James1.16 ESV

Now there are difficulties for each generation facing the deception of the prince of darkness working in the sons of disobedience. One, which appears common to all, would be demonic efforts to deceive us about our own obedience. It has proven easy for our enemy to focus our energies on Christian beliefs and lead us to neglect Christian practices and at times, vice-versa. But one modern day prophet has challenged the church by stating that many of us think we are Christians because we believe “the right stuff,” when we should be concerned about how we are living and loving. Are we right to believe that someone is more a Christian because they believe in the virgin birth but they do not seek justice for the poor or open their home to strangers? I am not sure this would pass the test of Jesus found in Matt. 25. There is no doubt that the issue at judgment will ultimately take into account both our beliefs and practices. Faith without works is dead and so works without faith is pride. Any teaching that lulls us to neglect one over the other serves the deceitful spirits of this passing age. All of us need to consider with equal measure the soundness our beliefs and the seriousness of living and loving others. To be continued

“During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act” George Orwell

“By his cunning he shall make deceit prosper under his hand…” Dan.8.25 ESV

Many believe that these visional words of Daniel refer to the antichrist that is yet to come. The apostles warned us that many antichrists have gone out into the world, each of them servants of the father of lies. And, as such, we should expect that deceit would be their weapon of choice. It is then not so much persecution that Christians should fear, but deception that might possibly lead us astray from “the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” And because this faith was “once for all delivered,” it is in the fellowship of past saints that present saints will find the voice of the Holy Spirit. For this reason, Christians should know well the orthodoxy (correct thought) and orthopraxy (correct action) of the saints who have lived before us. We should attend diligently to the beliefs and practices that have been common not to Christians mind you, but fruit bearing Christians in every generation? The presence of the Holy Spirit in their teaching and actions as evidenced by love, joy, peace, patience and the rest should be our aim. We should not only listen to the saints in our generation but in every generation and look for the consensual voice of the Holy Spirit in all that is good. To fall away is to fall from something to something else. I should think that if you find yourself moving from measurably good orthodoxy and orthopraxy there is a good chance you are being deceived. To be continued… 11/12/2008 ts

“During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act” George Orwell

“By his cunning he shall make deceit prosper under his hand…” Dan.8.25 ESV

Many believe that these visional words of Daniel refer to the antichrist that is yet to come. The apostles warned us that many antichrists have gone out into the world, each of them servants of the father of lies. And, as such, we should expect that deceit would be their weapon of choice. It is then not so much persecution that Christians should fear, but deception that might possibly lead us astray from “the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” And because this faith was “once for all delivered,” it is in the fellowship of past saints that present saints will find the voice of the Holy Spirit. For this reason, Christians should know well the orthodoxy (correct thought) and orthopraxy (correct action) of the saints who have lived before us. We should attend diligently to the beliefs and practices that have been common not to Christians mind you, but fruit bearing Christians in every generation? The presence of the Holy Spirit in their teaching and actions as evidenced by love, joy, peace, patience and the rest should be our aim. We should not only listen to the saints in our generation but in every generation and look for the consensual voice of the Holy Spirit in all that is good. To fall away is to fall from something to something else. I should think that if you find yourself moving from measurably good orthodoxy and orthopraxy there is a good chance you are being deceived. To be continued… 11/12/2008 ts

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” Edmund Burke

“…and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven
shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High.” Dan.7.27 ESV

How is the Kingdom of Christ to unfold in the world? The church has been divided in it’s understanding of how things will play out. Some have said that the Kingdom is chiefly spiritual and that Christ has come only to rule in our hearts. Others believe that while the Kingdom is certainly spiritual it will culminate with Christ’s physical presence ruling physically over the nations. However it plays out, I think that the abandon ship attitude of some modern day Christians does not properly honor the true economy of any kingdom that would bear Christ’s name. Take for instance where someone said, “We don't have to protect the environment, the Second Coming is at hand.” Or how about the call of some to pull out of politics and let the world have it if this will hasten the second coming. Thank God that the founding fathers of America did not share this view. Nor did the generation who fought in the wars of the last century who passed us our freedom. Jesus prayed, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world,” and until our King says otherwise we should not abandon it either.” Our grandchildren may yet have work to do for His glory and they may appreciate clean air and good government while doing it. 11/11/2008 ts

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” Edmund Burke

“…and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven
shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High.” Dan.7.27 ESV

How is the Kingdom of Christ to unfold in the world? The church has been divided in it’s understanding of how things will play out. Some have said that the Kingdom is chiefly spiritual and that Christ has come only to rule in our hearts. Others believe that while the Kingdom is certainly spiritual it will culminate with Christ’s physical presence ruling physically over the nations. However it plays out, I think that the abandon ship attitude of some modern day Christians does not properly honor the true economy of any kingdom that would bear Christ’s name. Take for instance where someone said, “We don't have to protect the environment, the Second Coming is at hand.” Or how about the call of some to pull out of politics and let the world have it if this will hasten the second coming. Thank God that the founding fathers of America did not share this view. Nor did the generation who fought in the wars of the last century who passed us our freedom. Jesus prayed, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world,” and until our King says otherwise we should not abandon it either.” Our grandchildren may yet have work to do for His glory and they may appreciate clean air and good government while doing it. 11/11/2008 ts

"I believe there's something out there watching over us. Unfortunately, it's the government." Woody Allen

“Then the king, …set his mind to deliver Daniel. And he labored till the sun went down to rescue him.” Dan.6.14 ESV

I think people in general expect too much from the government. We look for it to fix the economy, keep us safe from terrorist, and depending on your political view, perhaps provide everyone with health insurance. Now I am not advocating any particular view of what government should or should not do, so much as I am probing the resting place of our faith. Do I believe that God or government insures domestic tranquility? Traditionally Christians believe that God uses government, just as He uses doctors, or the military or any and all other human means to provide, protect and pilot His people. But it is foolish to put our faith in the means rather than in God who uses them. Darius the most powerful King in his day was unable to rescue Daniel from the lion’s den. The reason was that he got trapped in his own political net, as people in government often do. But even when government failed, God saw Daniel through the night and not only without the king’s hand but despite of it. The commander and chief of the armies of Israel said this, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” 11/10/2008 ts

"I believe there's something out there watching over us. Unfortunately, it's the government." Woody Allen

“Then the king, …set his mind to deliver Daniel. And he labored till the sun went down to rescue him.” Dan.6.14 ESV

I think people in general expect too much from the government. We look for it to fix the economy, keep us safe from terrorist, and depending on your political view, perhaps provide everyone with health insurance. Now I am not advocating any particular view of what government should or should not do, so much as I am probing the resting place of our faith. Do I believe that God or government insures domestic tranquility? Traditionally Christians believe that God uses government, just as He uses doctors, or the military or any and all other human means to provide, protect and pilot His people. But it is foolish to put our faith in the means rather than in God who uses them. Darius the most powerful King in his day was unable to rescue Daniel from the lion’s den. The reason was that he got trapped in his own political net, as people in government often do. But even when government failed, God saw Daniel through the night and not only without the king’s hand but despite of it. The commander and chief of the armies of Israel said this, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” 11/10/2008 ts

“The Pledge clearly acknowledges the fact that our freedoms in this country come from God, not government,” Jay Sekulow

…the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will. Dan.5.21 ESV

A number of my Christians friends did not vote for the recent president elect but to the credit of the Holy Spirit in them, each of them have pledged both prayers and respect for him. This of course does not mean that we agree with the policies of all who come to power, but fundamentally Christians hold to the belief that God orders the affairs of men and governments and sets over them whom He will. Jesus reminded Pilate of this even as He was standing trial before him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above.” And, along with this belief is the practice of “rendering to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.” Christians pay taxes, submit to governing authorities, honor and offer prayers for all who are in power. This of course does not stop at our own borders and so we pray for all world leaders as Paul instructed, “that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” 11/8/2008 ts

“The Pledge clearly acknowledges the fact that our freedoms in this country come from God, not government,” Jay Sekulow

…the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will. Dan.5.21 ESV

A number of my Christians friends did not vote for the recent president elect but to the credit of the Holy Spirit in them, each of them have pledged both prayers and respect for him. This of course does not mean that we agree with the policies of all who come to power, but fundamentally Christians hold to the belief that God orders the affairs of men and governments and sets over them whom He will. Jesus reminded Pilate of this even as He was standing trial before him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above.” And, along with this belief is the practice of “rendering to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.” Christians pay taxes, submit to governing authorities, honor and offer prayers for all who are in power. This of course does not stop at our own borders and so we pray for all world leaders as Paul instructed, “that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” 11/8/2008 ts

A proud man is always looking down on things and people;...

... and, of course , as long as you're looking down, you can't see something that's above you. C.S. Lewis

Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Dan.4.37 ESV

There is more hope for a fool than for one who is wise in his own eyes. So says the book of wisdom and so let my heart embrace it. I think pride expresses itself most when we hear God’s word and smugly apply it to someone else instead of ourselves. Even now how easy it is for me to assemble in my thoughts those who I think need to hear these words. Let me hear them! Let me heed them! God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble. The subtle expressions of our pride break out in the bitter fruit of our judgment and criticisms of others. How easy it is to look down on someone when perched upon the fences of religion. We need to remember that the harshest words that Jesus spoke in His brief visit were directed against the religious right of His day. Christ came to tear down fences not erect new ones. 11/8/2008 ts

A proud man is always looking down on things and people;...

... and, of course , as long as you're looking down, you can't see something that's above you. C.S. Lewis

Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Dan.4.37 ESV

There is more hope for a fool than for one who is wise in his own eyes. So says the book of wisdom and so let my heart embrace it. I think pride expresses itself most when we hear God’s word and smugly apply it to someone else instead of ourselves. Even now how easy it is for me to assemble in my thoughts those who I think need to hear these words. Let me hear them! Let me heed them! God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble. The subtle expressions of our pride break out in the bitter fruit of our judgment and criticisms of others. How easy it is to look down on someone when perched upon the fences of religion. We need to remember that the harshest words that Jesus spoke in His brief visit were directed against the religious right of His day. Christ came to tear down fences not erect new ones. 11/8/2008 ts

“Faith is not trying to believe something regardless of the evidence; faith is daring something regardless of the consequences” Sherwood Eddy

Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out from the fire. Dan.3.26 ESV

What are we facing this day that threatens us? What doubts and fears assail the peace in our hearts? Let us recount the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and swage our fears to faith. Let us remember their confident trust, and their willingness to suffer for it. Let us recall the deliverance that was given to them because of it.
Listen again to the king’s threat should they did not worship his idol, “What god can deliver you out of my hands?” Remember the undaunted reply of their faith, “Our God is able and He will deliver us!” Remember also the unwavering resolve of their faith, “But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods.” God is able to come to our rescue, are we willing to trust Him even if He does not?
But let me recall God’s deliverance and encourage my own heart with it. Child of God fear not, for your heavenly Father will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. Though fire burns, it has no power over you if God decides it. Not even the smell of the flames will cling to your clothes. Every soul in Jesus is the very pupil of God’s eye and He shall surely protect His own. Hope assures us that there are levels of protection unseen to us. We have not been told the end of every story, only that those who trust in God will never be put to shame.

“Faith is not trying to believe something regardless of the evidence; faith is daring something regardless of the consequences” Sherwood Eddy

Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out from the fire. Dan.3.26 ESV

What are we facing this day that threatens us? What doubts and fears assail the peace in our hearts? Let us recount the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and swage our fears to faith. Let us remember their confident trust, and their willingness to suffer for it. Let us recall the deliverance that was given to them because of it.
Listen again to the king’s threat should they did not worship his idol, “What god can deliver you out of my hands?” Remember the undaunted reply of their faith, “Our God is able and He will deliver us!” Remember also the unwavering resolve of their faith, “But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods.” God is able to come to our rescue, are we willing to trust Him even if He does not?
But let me recall God’s deliverance and encourage my own heart with it. Child of God fear not, for your heavenly Father will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. Though fire burns, it has no power over you if God decides it. Not even the smell of the flames will cling to your clothes. Every soul in Jesus is the very pupil of God’s eye and He shall surely protect His own. Hope assures us that there are levels of protection unseen to us. We have not been told the end of every story, only that those who trust in God will never be put to shame.

It may be that the Day of Judgment will dawn tomorrow;

...in that case we will gladly stop working toward a better future. But not before. – Dietrich Bonhoeffer


“But the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.” Dan2.35 ESV

There is no shortage of books, charts and theories seeking to explain the meaning of King Nebuchadnezzar dream concerning the rise and fall of kingdoms that would come after Babylon. We remain a little fuzzy about the ten toes part of the dream. The truth is that we remain a little fuzzy about a great deal when it comes to latter day prophecy. One thing absolutely clear is that the eternal Kingdom of Christ is replacing the temporal kingdoms of this passing age. I say that it is replacing, because the transition has already begun. Every person who invites Christ into his or her heart expands His Kingdom. Where are we on the eschatological calendar? Well, we are at the part where Jesus has said, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

It may be that the Day of Judgment will dawn tomorrow;

...in that case we will gladly stop working toward a better future. But not before. – Dietrich Bonhoeffer


“But the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.” Dan2.35 ESV

There is no shortage of books, charts and theories seeking to explain the meaning of King Nebuchadnezzar dream concerning the rise and fall of kingdoms that would come after Babylon. We remain a little fuzzy about the ten toes part of the dream. The truth is that we remain a little fuzzy about a great deal when it comes to latter day prophecy. One thing absolutely clear is that the eternal Kingdom of Christ is replacing the temporal kingdoms of this passing age. I say that it is replacing, because the transition has already begun. Every person who invites Christ into his or her heart expands His Kingdom. Where are we on the eschatological calendar? Well, we are at the part where Jesus has said, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

“When the chess game is over, the pawn and the king go back to the same box.” Etienne Goldstein

“And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God.” Daniel 1.2 ESV

When God gave the nation of Judah over to her enemies, He allowed some of His temple vessels to be taken as well. How poetically beautiful that God would arrange the taking of these vessels as symbolic of Daniel and his friends. God indwells His children and they are the real vessels of Yahweh. Little did the king know that by bringing Daniel into his kingdom that he was inviting the very counsel of the Most High, dwelling this precious servant, into his royal court. Like all kings of the earth, Babylon’s ruler believed that he was in charge. But like the pieces of a chessboard, even the king is just a pawn in the hand of the Master Chessman. Nations come and go, but God’s people will be as enduring as the Lord who watches over them. Even to this day we are the temple vessels of the Almighty and as such, we are a means of grace, salt and light, even as Daniel was to the king he served. Not only does God position nations to care for His people, He is also positioning His people that all nations may know the wonders and majesty of Christ. 11/4/2008 ts

“When the chess game is over, the pawn and the king go back to the same box.” Etienne Goldstein

“And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God.” Daniel 1.2 ESV

When God gave the nation of Judah over to her enemies, He allowed some of His temple vessels to be taken as well. How poetically beautiful that God would arrange the taking of these vessels as symbolic of Daniel and his friends. God indwells His children and they are the real vessels of Yahweh. Little did the king know that by bringing Daniel into his kingdom that he was inviting the very counsel of the Most High, dwelling this precious servant, into his royal court. Like all kings of the earth, Babylon’s ruler believed that he was in charge. But like the pieces of a chessboard, even the king is just a pawn in the hand of the Master Chessman. Nations come and go, but God’s people will be as enduring as the Lord who watches over them. Even to this day we are the temple vessels of the Almighty and as such, we are a means of grace, salt and light, even as Daniel was to the king he served. Not only does God position nations to care for His people, He is also positioning His people that all nations may know the wonders and majesty of Christ. 11/4/2008 ts

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” Prov.27.6 ESV

“…having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,” 2Tim.4,3 ESV

Jesus often said that those who have ears to hear should listen. Listening to your mentor is of course the first exercise of a disciple. I think one reason why Jesus used this expression so often is that humans generally prefer listening to words that affirm what they think, do and feel, rather than to words that offer corrections of them. Surely it is a divine grace to listen to those things we need to hear instead of listening only to what we want to hear, and, since it is, we should humbly ask God for it. 11/3/2008 ts

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” Prov.27.6 ESV

“…having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,” 2Tim.4,3 ESV

Jesus often said that those who have ears to hear should listen. Listening to your mentor is of course the first exercise of a disciple. I think one reason why Jesus used this expression so often is that humans generally prefer listening to words that affirm what they think, do and feel, rather than to words that offer corrections of them. Surely it is a divine grace to listen to those things we need to hear instead of listening only to what we want to hear, and, since it is, we should humbly ask God for it. 11/3/2008 ts

There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root. Henry David Thoreau:

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted…”2Tim3.12 ESV

If Christians have three enemies: evil spirits, evil people and our own corrupt nature, then we may expect persecution from all of them. This may very well mean that we wind up persecuting ourselves. Now I realize that this may sound strange but doesn’t the Scripture tell us that a war is constantly raging within us; flesh against Spirit and Spirit against flesh. And, if we are told to put to death our old nature with its passions and desires, I should think that the persecution within us would run in both directions and that I would see the old man persecuting my new nature and my new persecuting the old. Anyone who has chided himself or herself for being foolish know what I’m trying to describe. One expression I here often is, “Tim your being stupid.” I say this to myself all the time. Now when I do this, the question is, who is persecuting whom? Are you confused yet? Well, it certainly can be confusing. Is it the new me calling the old me stupid for being stupid or is it the new me calling the new me stupid for allowing the old me to act that way? Maybe it is the old me hiding under the guise of the new me feigning humility when it is really just my foolish pride that’s been hurt for losing against some temptation. The truth is that it is probably both my natures persecuting one another. The question I would ask the new me, for that is the present me, is if it is wise to use the tactics of the old man in my struggle against him. Are there not sharper weapons in our arsenal, divinely powerful weapons that work better than just hurling insults at myself? ts

There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root. Henry David Thoreau:

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted…”2Tim3.12 ESV

If Christians have three enemies: evil spirits, evil people and our own corrupt nature, then we may expect persecution from all of them. This may very well mean that we wind up persecuting ourselves. Now I realize that this may sound strange but doesn’t the Scripture tell us that a war is constantly raging within us; flesh against Spirit and Spirit against flesh. And, if we are told to put to death our old nature with its passions and desires, I should think that the persecution within us would run in both directions and that I would see the old man persecuting my new nature and my new persecuting the old. Anyone who has chided himself or herself for being foolish know what I’m trying to describe. One expression I here often is, “Tim your being stupid.” I say this to myself all the time. Now when I do this, the question is, who is persecuting whom? Are you confused yet? Well, it certainly can be confusing. Is it the new me calling the old me stupid for being stupid or is it the new me calling the new me stupid for allowing the old me to act that way? Maybe it is the old me hiding under the guise of the new me feigning humility when it is really just my foolish pride that’s been hurt for losing against some temptation. The truth is that it is probably both my natures persecuting one another. The question I would ask the new me, for that is the present me, is if it is wise to use the tactics of the old man in my struggle against him. Are there not sharper weapons in our arsenal, divinely powerful weapons that work better than just hurling insults at myself? ts

“Man was predestined to have free will.” Hal Lee Luyah

“But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are his,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.’” 2Tim2.19 ESV

Just as there are two sides to the same coin, so there are two sides to the workings of the Christian experience. One side bears the seal of God’s choice in sovereign grace, the other the seal of man’s choice with a liberated will. Not only does the Lord know those who are His, those He has known choose willingly to depart from iniquity.” Before all time, God has known those who are to wed His blessed Son. Did not Jesus tell us, “All that the Father gives to me will come to me…?” Why did God choose us but that we should be holy and blameless before Him and that He might give to Christ a spotless bride. We know those whom Christ has called to be His precious bride when they put on the wedding dress of purity. Here the human response is wed to sovereign grace, here man lovingly chooses God who has lovingly chosen him. The seal of sovereign grace is necessary because without it, no one would ever come to Christ. The seal of human choice follows because love must be freely given if it is to be love at all.

“Man was predestined to have free will.” Hal Lee Luyah

“But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are his,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.’” 2Tim2.19 ESV

Just as there are two sides to the same coin, so there are two sides to the workings of the Christian experience. One side bears the seal of God’s choice in sovereign grace, the other the seal of man’s choice with a liberated will. Not only does the Lord know those who are His, those He has known choose willingly to depart from iniquity.” Before all time, God has known those who are to wed His blessed Son. Did not Jesus tell us, “All that the Father gives to me will come to me…?” Why did God choose us but that we should be holy and blameless before Him and that He might give to Christ a spotless bride. We know those whom Christ has called to be His precious bride when they put on the wedding dress of purity. Here the human response is wed to sovereign grace, here man lovingly chooses God who has lovingly chosen him. The seal of sovereign grace is necessary because without it, no one would ever come to Christ. The seal of human choice follows because love must be freely given if it is to be love at all.