“This I know, that God is for me.” Ps.56.9 ESV
If you are in Christ, these words are not empty boast. To say that God is for us, after He delivered up His Son for our sins, is an understatement. But this sure foundation lies under our feet no matter where we go. Even when we stray, God is for us. And, because He is, He may work against what we are doing. 4/29/2009 Conversations Within ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
“A certain amount of opposition is a great help to a man. Kites rise against, not with, the wind.” Lewis Mumford
“This I know, that God is for me.” Ps.56.9 ESV
If you are in Christ, these words are not empty boast. To say that God is for us, after He delivered up His Son for our sins, is an understatement. But this sure foundation lies under our feet no matter where we go. Even when we stray, God is for us. And, because He is, He may work against what we are doing. 4/29/2009 Conversations Within ts
If you are in Christ, these words are not empty boast. To say that God is for us, after He delivered up His Son for our sins, is an understatement. But this sure foundation lies under our feet no matter where we go. Even when we stray, God is for us. And, because He is, He may work against what we are doing. 4/29/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
You haven't seen a tree until you've seen its shadow from the sky. ~Amelia Earhart
“Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.” Ps.55.6 ESV
When Christ came to live in our hearts, He brought a pair of wings with Him. He would teach us to use them. He invites us to take flight, to lift up our hearts with wings of trust, to leave the bonds and worries of the world, to soar the heights of wonder and worship and breathe the delicious air of the angels. 4/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
When Christ came to live in our hearts, He brought a pair of wings with Him. He would teach us to use them. He invites us to take flight, to lift up our hearts with wings of trust, to leave the bonds and worries of the world, to soar the heights of wonder and worship and breathe the delicious air of the angels. 4/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
You haven't seen a tree until you've seen its shadow from the sky. ~Amelia Earhart
“Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.” Ps.55.6 ESV
When Christ came to live in our hearts, He brought a pair of wings with Him. He would teach us to use them. He invites us to take flight, to lift up our hearts with wings of trust, to leave the bonds and worries of the world, to soar the heights of wonder and worship and breathe the delicious air of the angels. 4/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
When Christ came to live in our hearts, He brought a pair of wings with Him. He would teach us to use them. He invites us to take flight, to lift up our hearts with wings of trust, to leave the bonds and worries of the world, to soar the heights of wonder and worship and breathe the delicious air of the angels. 4/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
“Even if you say to this mountain…” Jesus
“I will give thanks to your name, O Lord, for it is good.” Ps.54.6 ESV
To believe in the goodness of God in the midst of personal pain and to express it by giving thanks to Him, is itself a great good. I mean that it is beneficial to us, soul hardy, if you will, to affirm that God is working good even when it looks bad and to tell Him so in the simple words, “Thank you.” Gratitude expresses and strengthens faith all in the same breath and is for us the medicine of the soul. Gratitude also benefits the prayers we say for others. As I pray for family and friends, I have found it helpful to enter His gates with thanksgiving for and about each one. Doing this often shapes everything that I would ask for them. Thanksgiving will infuse weak prayers with strength and turn a feeble request into confident command. 4/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
To believe in the goodness of God in the midst of personal pain and to express it by giving thanks to Him, is itself a great good. I mean that it is beneficial to us, soul hardy, if you will, to affirm that God is working good even when it looks bad and to tell Him so in the simple words, “Thank you.” Gratitude expresses and strengthens faith all in the same breath and is for us the medicine of the soul. Gratitude also benefits the prayers we say for others. As I pray for family and friends, I have found it helpful to enter His gates with thanksgiving for and about each one. Doing this often shapes everything that I would ask for them. Thanksgiving will infuse weak prayers with strength and turn a feeble request into confident command. 4/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Even if you say to this mountain…” Jesus
“I will give thanks to your name, O Lord, for it is good.” Ps.54.6 ESV
To believe in the goodness of God in the midst of personal pain and to express it by giving thanks to Him, is itself a great good. I mean that it is beneficial to us, soul hardy, if you will, to affirm that God is working good even when it looks bad and to tell Him so in the simple words, “Thank you.” Gratitude expresses and strengthens faith all in the same breath and is for us the medicine of the soul. Gratitude also benefits the prayers we say for others. As I pray for family and friends, I have found it helpful to enter His gates with thanksgiving for and about each one. Doing this often shapes everything that I would ask for them. Thanksgiving will infuse weak prayers with strength and turn a feeble request into confident command. 4/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
To believe in the goodness of God in the midst of personal pain and to express it by giving thanks to Him, is itself a great good. I mean that it is beneficial to us, soul hardy, if you will, to affirm that God is working good even when it looks bad and to tell Him so in the simple words, “Thank you.” Gratitude expresses and strengthens faith all in the same breath and is for us the medicine of the soul. Gratitude also benefits the prayers we say for others. As I pray for family and friends, I have found it helpful to enter His gates with thanksgiving for and about each one. Doing this often shapes everything that I would ask for them. Thanksgiving will infuse weak prayers with strength and turn a feeble request into confident command. 4/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 27, 2009
Some believe in God but lives each day as though He doesn’t exist.
The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” Ps53.1 ESV
I have a few atheist friends. We talk freely about belief and non-belief. One of them once told me that he felt that if there is a God He would be more merciful to someone who had sincere doubts and did not believe than to one who believed only to avoid being punished. Some people have what could be called a “hedge your bet” belief. In other words, they believe in God just in case there is one, if there isn’t they figure they have nothing to fear. A faith of this sort may be nothing more than mere superstition. Some people I know are practical atheist. They may believe in God but for all practical purposes, they live as though there isn’t one. Their belief in God has no influence in the day-to-day affairs of life and if they did not believe in Him nothing would really change. 4/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
I have a few atheist friends. We talk freely about belief and non-belief. One of them once told me that he felt that if there is a God He would be more merciful to someone who had sincere doubts and did not believe than to one who believed only to avoid being punished. Some people have what could be called a “hedge your bet” belief. In other words, they believe in God just in case there is one, if there isn’t they figure they have nothing to fear. A faith of this sort may be nothing more than mere superstition. Some people I know are practical atheist. They may believe in God but for all practical purposes, they live as though there isn’t one. Their belief in God has no influence in the day-to-day affairs of life and if they did not believe in Him nothing would really change. 4/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Some believe in God but lives each day as though He doesn’t exist.
The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” Ps53.1 ESV
I have a few atheist friends. We talk freely about belief and non-belief. One of them once told me that he felt that if there is a God He would be more merciful to someone who had sincere doubts and did not believe than to one who believed only to avoid being punished. Some people have what could be called a “hedge your bet” belief. In other words, they believe in God just in case there is one, if there isn’t they figure they have nothing to fear. A faith of this sort may be nothing more than mere superstition. Some people I know are practical atheist. They may believe in God but for all practical purposes, they live as though there isn’t one. Their belief in God has no influence in the day-to-day affairs of life and if they did not believe in Him nothing would really change. 4/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
I have a few atheist friends. We talk freely about belief and non-belief. One of them once told me that he felt that if there is a God He would be more merciful to someone who had sincere doubts and did not believe than to one who believed only to avoid being punished. Some people have what could be called a “hedge your bet” belief. In other words, they believe in God just in case there is one, if there isn’t they figure they have nothing to fear. A faith of this sort may be nothing more than mere superstition. Some people I know are practical atheist. They may believe in God but for all practical purposes, they live as though there isn’t one. Their belief in God has no influence in the day-to-day affairs of life and if they did not believe in Him nothing would really change. 4/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Sometimes the best way to take matters into your hands is to leave them in the Lord’s hands.
“I will thank you forever, because you have done it.” Ps.52.9 ESV
It is a test of our patience and faith to sit in the waiting room of the Lord. Young David was promised the throne of Israel but God made him wait for it and not without trial. But rather than take matters into his own hands, especially when doing so would speed up the process but would also compromise principle, the future king declared to his heart, “I will wait for your name, for it is good.” David speaks to himself, as we often must do if we would stay our heart, and hold fast to God’s promises. How it strengthens faith to see the Lord bring His word to pass. And, when it finally comes, this future hope He has promised and, for which we have long waited, we will be able to declare, “I will give thanks, because You, not I, have done it.” 4/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
It is a test of our patience and faith to sit in the waiting room of the Lord. Young David was promised the throne of Israel but God made him wait for it and not without trial. But rather than take matters into his own hands, especially when doing so would speed up the process but would also compromise principle, the future king declared to his heart, “I will wait for your name, for it is good.” David speaks to himself, as we often must do if we would stay our heart, and hold fast to God’s promises. How it strengthens faith to see the Lord bring His word to pass. And, when it finally comes, this future hope He has promised and, for which we have long waited, we will be able to declare, “I will give thanks, because You, not I, have done it.” 4/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Sometimes the best way to take matters into your hands is to leave them in the Lord’s hands.
“I will thank you forever, because you have done it.” Ps.52.9 ESV
It is a test of our patience and faith to sit in the waiting room of the Lord. Young David was promised the throne of Israel but God made him wait for it and not without trial. But rather than take matters into his own hands, especially when doing so would speed up the process but would also compromise principle, the future king declared to his heart, “I will wait for your name, for it is good.” David speaks to himself, as we often must do if we would stay our heart, and hold fast to God’s promises. How it strengthens faith to see the Lord bring His word to pass. And, when it finally comes, this future hope He has promised and, for which we have long waited, we will be able to declare, “I will give thanks, because You, not I, have done it.” 4/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
It is a test of our patience and faith to sit in the waiting room of the Lord. Young David was promised the throne of Israel but God made him wait for it and not without trial. But rather than take matters into his own hands, especially when doing so would speed up the process but would also compromise principle, the future king declared to his heart, “I will wait for your name, for it is good.” David speaks to himself, as we often must do if we would stay our heart, and hold fast to God’s promises. How it strengthens faith to see the Lord bring His word to pass. And, when it finally comes, this future hope He has promised and, for which we have long waited, we will be able to declare, “I will give thanks, because You, not I, have done it.” 4/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, April 24, 2009
“If people are good only because they fear punishment, and hope for reward, then we are a sorry lot indeed.” Albert Einstein
“…a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” Ps.51.17
The Scriptures tell us that there is more hope for a fool than for one who is proud. Why does God despise pride? Could it be that pride blinds us to our faults, keeps us from seeking the grace of God’s forgiveness and locks us in the dungeon of a self-absorbed hell. This would mean that one reason God hates pride is because of what pride does to us not to Him. If we are ever on the outs with God, one sure path back into His favor is a broken and contrite heart. Of course, we should not confuse brokenness with shame or injured pride. Am I sorry when I wrong another or am I sorry than I am such a sorry person when I thought better of myself? Blessed are those who mourn for the right reason. 4/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
The Scriptures tell us that there is more hope for a fool than for one who is proud. Why does God despise pride? Could it be that pride blinds us to our faults, keeps us from seeking the grace of God’s forgiveness and locks us in the dungeon of a self-absorbed hell. This would mean that one reason God hates pride is because of what pride does to us not to Him. If we are ever on the outs with God, one sure path back into His favor is a broken and contrite heart. Of course, we should not confuse brokenness with shame or injured pride. Am I sorry when I wrong another or am I sorry than I am such a sorry person when I thought better of myself? Blessed are those who mourn for the right reason. 4/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
“If people are good only because they fear punishment, and hope for reward, then we are a sorry lot indeed.” Albert Einstein
“…a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” Ps.51.17
The Scriptures tell us that there is more hope for a fool than for one who is proud. Why does God despise pride? Could it be that pride blinds us to our faults, keeps us from seeking the grace of God’s forgiveness and locks us in the dungeon of a self-absorbed hell. This would mean that one reason God hates pride is because of what pride does to us not to Him. If we are ever on the outs with God, one sure path back into His favor is a broken and contrite heart. Of course, we should not confuse brokenness with shame or injured pride. Am I sorry when I wrong another or am I sorry than I am such a sorry person when I thought better of myself? Blessed are those who mourn for the right reason. 4/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
The Scriptures tell us that there is more hope for a fool than for one who is proud. Why does God despise pride? Could it be that pride blinds us to our faults, keeps us from seeking the grace of God’s forgiveness and locks us in the dungeon of a self-absorbed hell. This would mean that one reason God hates pride is because of what pride does to us not to Him. If we are ever on the outs with God, one sure path back into His favor is a broken and contrite heart. Of course, we should not confuse brokenness with shame or injured pride. Am I sorry when I wrong another or am I sorry than I am such a sorry person when I thought better of myself? Blessed are those who mourn for the right reason. 4/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 23, 2009
“Don’t let your purpose in life be simply to serve as a warning to others” Anonymous
“Mark this, then, you who forget God, lest I tear you apart” Ps.50.22 ESV
Not every interaction with God is pleasant. I know this from reading the Bible and I have had my own share of unpleasant experiences with Him. Sometimes, and for good reason, He sternly rebukes, and warns us about the dangers of our disobedience. It is sad but we can be rather hardheaded at times and a good wop on the head is about the only way Father can get our attention. God disciplines because God loves. I have never once received a spanking where the Holy Spirit did not first give me a warning. 4/22/2009 Conversations Within ts
Not every interaction with God is pleasant. I know this from reading the Bible and I have had my own share of unpleasant experiences with Him. Sometimes, and for good reason, He sternly rebukes, and warns us about the dangers of our disobedience. It is sad but we can be rather hardheaded at times and a good wop on the head is about the only way Father can get our attention. God disciplines because God loves. I have never once received a spanking where the Holy Spirit did not first give me a warning. 4/22/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Don’t let your purpose in life be simply to serve as a warning to others” Anonymous
“Mark this, then, you who forget God, lest I tear you apart” Ps.50.22 ESV
Not every interaction with God is pleasant. I know this from reading the Bible and I have had my own share of unpleasant experiences with Him. Sometimes, and for good reason, He sternly rebukes, and warns us about the dangers of our disobedience. It is sad but we can be rather hardheaded at times and a good wop on the head is about the only way Father can get our attention. God disciplines because God loves. I have never once received a spanking where the Holy Spirit did not first give me a warning. 4/22/2009 Conversations Within ts
Not every interaction with God is pleasant. I know this from reading the Bible and I have had my own share of unpleasant experiences with Him. Sometimes, and for good reason, He sternly rebukes, and warns us about the dangers of our disobedience. It is sad but we can be rather hardheaded at times and a good wop on the head is about the only way Father can get our attention. God disciplines because God loves. I have never once received a spanking where the Holy Spirit did not first give me a warning. 4/22/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
“Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply bought the wrong stuff.” Anonymous
“For when he dies he will carry nothing away; his glory will not go down after him.” Ps.49.17 ESV
A person doesn’t have to be rich to fall into the trap of centering life around money. Even the poor and some might even say, especially the poor may spend too much time thinking about it. Someone has said that ninety percent of all that is done in the world, good or bad is done simply to pay the mortgage. Worries about this, can literally enslave us to trade our life energies to pay for and maintain the stuff we acquire and Jesus has clearly told us that one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Death reminds even the rich, and some would say especially the rich, that nobody actually owns anything material in this place. Jesus told us that we can and should invest our time, energy and even our money in those things that can follow us beyond the grave. 4/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
A person doesn’t have to be rich to fall into the trap of centering life around money. Even the poor and some might even say, especially the poor may spend too much time thinking about it. Someone has said that ninety percent of all that is done in the world, good or bad is done simply to pay the mortgage. Worries about this, can literally enslave us to trade our life energies to pay for and maintain the stuff we acquire and Jesus has clearly told us that one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Death reminds even the rich, and some would say especially the rich, that nobody actually owns anything material in this place. Jesus told us that we can and should invest our time, energy and even our money in those things that can follow us beyond the grave. 4/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply bought the wrong stuff.” Anonymous
“For when he dies he will carry nothing away; his glory will not go down after him.” Ps.49.17 ESV
A person doesn’t have to be rich to fall into the trap of centering life around money. Even the poor and some might even say, especially the poor may spend too much time thinking about it. Someone has said that ninety percent of all that is done in the world, good or bad is done simply to pay the mortgage. Worries about this, can literally enslave us to trade our life energies to pay for and maintain the stuff we acquire and Jesus has clearly told us that one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Death reminds even the rich, and some would say especially the rich, that nobody actually owns anything material in this place. Jesus told us that we can and should invest our time, energy and even our money in those things that can follow us beyond the grave. 4/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
A person doesn’t have to be rich to fall into the trap of centering life around money. Even the poor and some might even say, especially the poor may spend too much time thinking about it. Someone has said that ninety percent of all that is done in the world, good or bad is done simply to pay the mortgage. Worries about this, can literally enslave us to trade our life energies to pay for and maintain the stuff we acquire and Jesus has clearly told us that one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Death reminds even the rich, and some would say especially the rich, that nobody actually owns anything material in this place. Jesus told us that we can and should invest our time, energy and even our money in those things that can follow us beyond the grave. 4/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
“That which is striking and beautiful is not always good, but that which is good is always beautiful”. ~Ninon de L'Enclos
“beautiful in elevation, is the joy of all the earth, Mount Zion, in the far north, the city of the great King.” Ps.48.2 ESV
What do people see when they consider our faith in Christ? Are we beautiful in elevation; are we the joy of the all the earth? Do our neighbors say, ”There lives one of the happiest people I know; you never see them without kindness in their eyes and a song on their lips.” Are we a city set on a hill, not trying to be mind you, but are we like a majestic mountain with refreshing streams flowing from down from our worship? Are we a beauty to behold; always patient in suffering, always forgiving when wronged? Are we the blessed and as such, always a blessing? May the King of Glory live in our hearts so that the entire world may know the beauty of God in the face of Christ and the face Christ in our own. 4/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
What do people see when they consider our faith in Christ? Are we beautiful in elevation; are we the joy of the all the earth? Do our neighbors say, ”There lives one of the happiest people I know; you never see them without kindness in their eyes and a song on their lips.” Are we a city set on a hill, not trying to be mind you, but are we like a majestic mountain with refreshing streams flowing from down from our worship? Are we a beauty to behold; always patient in suffering, always forgiving when wronged? Are we the blessed and as such, always a blessing? May the King of Glory live in our hearts so that the entire world may know the beauty of God in the face of Christ and the face Christ in our own. 4/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
“That which is striking and beautiful is not always good, but that which is good is always beautiful”. ~Ninon de L'Enclos
“beautiful in elevation, is the joy of all the earth, Mount Zion, in the far north, the city of the great King.” Ps.48.2 ESV
What do people see when they consider our faith in Christ? Are we beautiful in elevation; are we the joy of the all the earth? Do our neighbors say, ”There lives one of the happiest people I know; you never see them without kindness in their eyes and a song on their lips.” Are we a city set on a hill, not trying to be mind you, but are we like a majestic mountain with refreshing streams flowing from down from our worship? Are we a beauty to behold; always patient in suffering, always forgiving when wronged? Are we the blessed and as such, always a blessing? May the King of Glory live in our hearts so that the entire world may know the beauty of God in the face of Christ and the face Christ in our own. 4/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
What do people see when they consider our faith in Christ? Are we beautiful in elevation; are we the joy of the all the earth? Do our neighbors say, ”There lives one of the happiest people I know; you never see them without kindness in their eyes and a song on their lips.” Are we a city set on a hill, not trying to be mind you, but are we like a majestic mountain with refreshing streams flowing from down from our worship? Are we a beauty to behold; always patient in suffering, always forgiving when wronged? Are we the blessed and as such, always a blessing? May the King of Glory live in our hearts so that the entire world may know the beauty of God in the face of Christ and the face Christ in our own. 4/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 20, 2009
“Wonder is involuntary praise” Edward Young
“Sing praises to God, sing praises!” Ps.47.6 ESV
How subtle but captivating is your fragrance my Lord, How powerfully quiet You are. You do not overwhelm us with loud boast but the strength of Your presence is staggering. You do not stamp Your name on every rock and tree and advertise “Made by God.” I like that about You. You are never showy yet every sight sound calls us to consider you. 4/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
How subtle but captivating is your fragrance my Lord, How powerfully quiet You are. You do not overwhelm us with loud boast but the strength of Your presence is staggering. You do not stamp Your name on every rock and tree and advertise “Made by God.” I like that about You. You are never showy yet every sight sound calls us to consider you. 4/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Wonder is involuntary praise” Edward Young
“Sing praises to God, sing praises!” Ps.47.6 ESV
How subtle but captivating is your fragrance my Lord, How powerfully quiet You are. You do not overwhelm us with loud boast but the strength of Your presence is staggering. You do not stamp Your name on every rock and tree and advertise “Made by God.” I like that about You. You are never showy yet every sight sound calls us to consider you. 4/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
How subtle but captivating is your fragrance my Lord, How powerfully quiet You are. You do not overwhelm us with loud boast but the strength of Your presence is staggering. You do not stamp Your name on every rock and tree and advertise “Made by God.” I like that about You. You are never showy yet every sight sound calls us to consider you. 4/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 18, 2009
“He will quiet you with his love.” Zep.3.17
“Be still, and know that I am God.” Ps.46.10 ESV
Moments of quiet reflection each day have become my favorite time of day. How can I express the value I find in them? The sun comes up, the light of His word with it, the fog lifts, focus is restored, and resolve renewed. These still waters quiet my soul. I would ditto these moments throughout the day. Teach me the stillness of soul as I sail in choppy waters, to posses it in patience until You connect the momentary dots and perfect peace become my continuous line. 4/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
Moments of quiet reflection each day have become my favorite time of day. How can I express the value I find in them? The sun comes up, the light of His word with it, the fog lifts, focus is restored, and resolve renewed. These still waters quiet my soul. I would ditto these moments throughout the day. Teach me the stillness of soul as I sail in choppy waters, to posses it in patience until You connect the momentary dots and perfect peace become my continuous line. 4/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
“He will quiet you with his love.” Zep.3.17
“Be still, and know that I am God.” Ps.46.10 ESV
Moments of quiet reflection each day have become my favorite time of day. How can I express the value I find in them? The sun comes up, the light of His word with it, the fog lifts, focus is restored, and resolve renewed. These still waters quiet my soul. I would ditto these moments throughout the day. Teach me the stillness of soul as I sail in choppy waters, to posses it in patience until You connect the momentary dots and perfect peace become my continuous line. 4/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
Moments of quiet reflection each day have become my favorite time of day. How can I express the value I find in them? The sun comes up, the light of His word with it, the fog lifts, focus is restored, and resolve renewed. These still waters quiet my soul. I would ditto these moments throughout the day. Teach me the stillness of soul as I sail in choppy waters, to posses it in patience until You connect the momentary dots and perfect peace become my continuous line. 4/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, April 17, 2009
“Sweet, juicy, soft on your tongue, grainy like a sugary sand that dissolves in your mouth.” Can you guess the movie?
“…let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!” Ps.45.4 ESV
How would you describe a taste to a friend or perhaps a color to someone who is blind? Words fail us at times. Even a perfect description of kiss cannot compare to the experience of kissing. Some things just have to be experienced. Life with God is that way, indeed life itself is. To define God with words is not the best way to know Him. That is why it is possible to know the Bible forwards and backwards but never really know anything of God. It is one thing to know about God it is an altogether different experience to have personal knowledge of Him. This is why discussions about the Bible will always fall short if we fall short of doing what it teaches. A disciple learns by doing not just defining. When my right hand teaches me, I will move away from just defining faith hope and love, and instead become a definition of them. 4/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
How would you describe a taste to a friend or perhaps a color to someone who is blind? Words fail us at times. Even a perfect description of kiss cannot compare to the experience of kissing. Some things just have to be experienced. Life with God is that way, indeed life itself is. To define God with words is not the best way to know Him. That is why it is possible to know the Bible forwards and backwards but never really know anything of God. It is one thing to know about God it is an altogether different experience to have personal knowledge of Him. This is why discussions about the Bible will always fall short if we fall short of doing what it teaches. A disciple learns by doing not just defining. When my right hand teaches me, I will move away from just defining faith hope and love, and instead become a definition of them. 4/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Sweet, juicy, soft on your tongue, grainy like a sugary sand that dissolves in your mouth.” Can you guess the movie?
“…let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!” Ps.45.4 ESV
How would you describe a taste to a friend or perhaps a color to someone who is blind? Words fail us at times. Even a perfect description of kiss cannot compare to the experience of kissing. Some things just have to be experienced. Life with God is that way, indeed life itself is. To define God with words is not the best way to know Him. That is why it is possible to know the Bible forwards and backwards but never really know anything of God. It is one thing to know about God it is an altogether different experience to have personal knowledge of Him. This is why discussions about the Bible will always fall short if we fall short of doing what it teaches. A disciple learns by doing not just defining. When my right hand teaches me, I will move away from just defining faith hope and love, and instead become a definition of them. 4/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
How would you describe a taste to a friend or perhaps a color to someone who is blind? Words fail us at times. Even a perfect description of kiss cannot compare to the experience of kissing. Some things just have to be experienced. Life with God is that way, indeed life itself is. To define God with words is not the best way to know Him. That is why it is possible to know the Bible forwards and backwards but never really know anything of God. It is one thing to know about God it is an altogether different experience to have personal knowledge of Him. This is why discussions about the Bible will always fall short if we fall short of doing what it teaches. A disciple learns by doing not just defining. When my right hand teaches me, I will move away from just defining faith hope and love, and instead become a definition of them. 4/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 16, 2009
“Masters who sacrifice for servants will receive the gift of loyalty.”
“Yet for your sake we are killed all the day long…” Ps.44.22 ESV
Many people have lost their lives in service to God. Some of them died on battlefields and perhaps did not think their sacrifice a spiritual service when it in fact was. They may have even faced a brother on the opposing side who also was also dying for the cause of Christ. Judgment day will sort this out for us. It is abundantly clear that God regards His cause worthy enough to sacrifice us for it. And though He sends some of us into harms way, the apostle Paul offers this very verse as an example that absolutely nothing can separate us from His love. In fact, some of the people dearest to Him have been offered on the alter of redemption. Paul mysteriously referred to this as “filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions.” That we could share in His suffering to love the world would be a privilege indeed. To believe this is to glory in His cross. 4/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
Many people have lost their lives in service to God. Some of them died on battlefields and perhaps did not think their sacrifice a spiritual service when it in fact was. They may have even faced a brother on the opposing side who also was also dying for the cause of Christ. Judgment day will sort this out for us. It is abundantly clear that God regards His cause worthy enough to sacrifice us for it. And though He sends some of us into harms way, the apostle Paul offers this very verse as an example that absolutely nothing can separate us from His love. In fact, some of the people dearest to Him have been offered on the alter of redemption. Paul mysteriously referred to this as “filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions.” That we could share in His suffering to love the world would be a privilege indeed. To believe this is to glory in His cross. 4/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Masters who sacrifice for servants will receive the gift of loyalty.”
“Yet for your sake we are killed all the day long…” Ps.44.22 ESV
Many people have lost their lives in service to God. Some of them died on battlefields and perhaps did not think their sacrifice a spiritual service when it in fact was. They may have even faced a brother on the opposing side who also was also dying for the cause of Christ. Judgment day will sort this out for us. It is abundantly clear that God regards His cause worthy enough to sacrifice us for it. And though He sends some of us into harms way, the apostle Paul offers this very verse as an example that absolutely nothing can separate us from His love. In fact, some of the people dearest to Him have been offered on the alter of redemption. Paul mysteriously referred to this as “filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions.” That we could share in His suffering to love the world would be a privilege indeed. To believe this is to glory in His cross. 4/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
Many people have lost their lives in service to God. Some of them died on battlefields and perhaps did not think their sacrifice a spiritual service when it in fact was. They may have even faced a brother on the opposing side who also was also dying for the cause of Christ. Judgment day will sort this out for us. It is abundantly clear that God regards His cause worthy enough to sacrifice us for it. And though He sends some of us into harms way, the apostle Paul offers this very verse as an example that absolutely nothing can separate us from His love. In fact, some of the people dearest to Him have been offered on the alter of redemption. Paul mysteriously referred to this as “filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions.” That we could share in His suffering to love the world would be a privilege indeed. To believe this is to glory in His cross. 4/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
“The main art in the matter of spiritual living is to know how to handle yourself.” Martin Lloyd Jones
“The main art in the matter of spiritual living is to know how to handle yourself.” Martin Lloyd Jones
“Hope in God; for I shall again praise him…” Ps.42.5 ESV
Do you ever talk to yourself? Here the Psalmist is doing just that; He is speaking to his own heart. He is telling himself that though the night is long, sunrise is coming. Sometimes talking to your self is the best remedy for listening to your self. And, what do you say when you are talking to your self? You speak the truth of course! Learning to preach truth to your heart, to argue your self out of moods of doubt and fear, is one of the most important skills in life. To borrow a mountaineering phase, it is a kind of “self-rescue.” I may not feel like praising God today, but every hope that I have in Christ tells me I shall praise Him again tomorrow. 4/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Hope in God; for I shall again praise him…” Ps.42.5 ESV
Do you ever talk to yourself? Here the Psalmist is doing just that; He is speaking to his own heart. He is telling himself that though the night is long, sunrise is coming. Sometimes talking to your self is the best remedy for listening to your self. And, what do you say when you are talking to your self? You speak the truth of course! Learning to preach truth to your heart, to argue your self out of moods of doubt and fear, is one of the most important skills in life. To borrow a mountaineering phase, it is a kind of “self-rescue.” I may not feel like praising God today, but every hope that I have in Christ tells me I shall praise Him again tomorrow. 4/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The main art in the matter of spiritual living is to know how to handle yourself.” Martin Lloyd Jones
“The main art in the matter of spiritual living is to know how to handle yourself.” Martin Lloyd Jones
“Hope in God; for I shall again praise him…” Ps.42.5 ESV
Do you ever talk to yourself? Here the Psalmist is doing just that; He is speaking to his own heart. He is telling himself that though the night is long, sunrise is coming. Sometimes talking to your self is the best remedy for listening to your self. And, what do you say when you are talking to your self? You speak the truth of course! Learning to preach truth to your heart, to argue your self out of moods of doubt and fear, is one of the most important skills in life. To borrow a mountaineering phase, it is a kind of “self-rescue.” I may not feel like praising God today, but every hope that I have in Christ tells me I shall praise Him again tomorrow. 4/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Hope in God; for I shall again praise him…” Ps.42.5 ESV
Do you ever talk to yourself? Here the Psalmist is doing just that; He is speaking to his own heart. He is telling himself that though the night is long, sunrise is coming. Sometimes talking to your self is the best remedy for listening to your self. And, what do you say when you are talking to your self? You speak the truth of course! Learning to preach truth to your heart, to argue your self out of moods of doubt and fear, is one of the most important skills in life. To borrow a mountaineering phase, it is a kind of “self-rescue.” I may not feel like praising God today, but every hope that I have in Christ tells me I shall praise Him again tomorrow. 4/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Justice travels in a circle, as do acts of kindness.
”Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him…” Ps.41.1
We all learned in school about the food chain as part of the great circle of life; what you eat will eventually eat you. Nice thought to begin the day uh. When you consider the sayings that surround it, the circle sounds more like a moral imperative with moral implications than just a law of nature. “Never take more than you give.” “What goes around comes around.” “One good turn deserves another.” “You reap what you sow.” From the Christians perspective, God is the One who has tied the circle of life end to end. Jesus tells us that when we remember the poor God will remember us, that when we forgive He will forgive us, that when give He will give and when we show mercy and we will obtain mercy. The circle of life is moral because it is administered by a personal God who has made both justice and kindness His personal concern. 4/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
We all learned in school about the food chain as part of the great circle of life; what you eat will eventually eat you. Nice thought to begin the day uh. When you consider the sayings that surround it, the circle sounds more like a moral imperative with moral implications than just a law of nature. “Never take more than you give.” “What goes around comes around.” “One good turn deserves another.” “You reap what you sow.” From the Christians perspective, God is the One who has tied the circle of life end to end. Jesus tells us that when we remember the poor God will remember us, that when we forgive He will forgive us, that when give He will give and when we show mercy and we will obtain mercy. The circle of life is moral because it is administered by a personal God who has made both justice and kindness His personal concern. 4/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
Justice travels in a circle, as do acts of kindness.
”Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him…” Ps.41.1
We all learned in school about the food chain as part of the great circle of life; what you eat will eventually eat you. Nice thought to begin the day uh. When you consider the sayings that surround it, the circle sounds more like a moral imperative with moral implications than just a law of nature. “Never take more than you give.” “What goes around comes around.” “One good turn deserves another.” “You reap what you sow.” From the Christians perspective, God is the One who has tied the circle of life end to end. Jesus tells us that when we remember the poor God will remember us, that when we forgive He will forgive us, that when give He will give and when we show mercy and we will obtain mercy. The circle of life is moral because it is administered by a personal God who has made both justice and kindness His personal concern. 4/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
We all learned in school about the food chain as part of the great circle of life; what you eat will eventually eat you. Nice thought to begin the day uh. When you consider the sayings that surround it, the circle sounds more like a moral imperative with moral implications than just a law of nature. “Never take more than you give.” “What goes around comes around.” “One good turn deserves another.” “You reap what you sow.” From the Christians perspective, God is the One who has tied the circle of life end to end. Jesus tells us that when we remember the poor God will remember us, that when we forgive He will forgive us, that when give He will give and when we show mercy and we will obtain mercy. The circle of life is moral because it is administered by a personal God who has made both justice and kindness His personal concern. 4/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 13, 2009
Children will sometimes blame a parent for pain that they have inflicted on themselves. We often do the same to God.
“Behold, they are all a delusion; their works are nothing; their metal images are empty wind.” Ps.41.29 ESV
Do we dare say that millions suffer poverty, disease and oppression because they trust in idols? To affirm this is not to say that every instance where people suffer is because they worship a false god or gods. But Jesus affirmed the very Scriptures that teach the terrible consequences of putting false hope in a false god. I think what bothers most people is not that there are consequences because of poor choices but that there are consequences, which spill over on others. A pregnant woman who happens to be addicted to heroin will give birth to an addicted baby. A drunken father who smokes in bed may not only burn himself but his children sleeping in the next room. Many children in this world are suffering because their parents have made poor choices regarding faith. 4/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
Do we dare say that millions suffer poverty, disease and oppression because they trust in idols? To affirm this is not to say that every instance where people suffer is because they worship a false god or gods. But Jesus affirmed the very Scriptures that teach the terrible consequences of putting false hope in a false god. I think what bothers most people is not that there are consequences because of poor choices but that there are consequences, which spill over on others. A pregnant woman who happens to be addicted to heroin will give birth to an addicted baby. A drunken father who smokes in bed may not only burn himself but his children sleeping in the next room. Many children in this world are suffering because their parents have made poor choices regarding faith. 4/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
Children will sometimes blame a parent for pain that they have inflicted on themselves. We often do the same to God.
“Behold, they are all a delusion; their works are nothing; their metal images are empty wind.” Ps.41.29 ESV
Do we dare say that millions suffer poverty, disease and oppression because they trust in idols? To affirm this is not to say that every instance where people suffer is because they worship a false god or gods. But Jesus affirmed the very Scriptures that teach the terrible consequences of putting false hope in a false god. I think what bothers most people is not that there are consequences because of poor choices but that there are consequences, which spill over on others. A pregnant woman who happens to be addicted to heroin will give birth to an addicted baby. A drunken father who smokes in bed may not only burn himself but his children sleeping in the next room. Many children in this world are suffering because their parents have made poor choices regarding faith. 4/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
Do we dare say that millions suffer poverty, disease and oppression because they trust in idols? To affirm this is not to say that every instance where people suffer is because they worship a false god or gods. But Jesus affirmed the very Scriptures that teach the terrible consequences of putting false hope in a false god. I think what bothers most people is not that there are consequences because of poor choices but that there are consequences, which spill over on others. A pregnant woman who happens to be addicted to heroin will give birth to an addicted baby. A drunken father who smokes in bed may not only burn himself but his children sleeping in the next room. Many children in this world are suffering because their parents have made poor choices regarding faith. 4/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 11, 2009
“God will not look you over for medals, degrees, or diplomas, but for scars.” Elbert Hubbard
"…your steadfast love and your faithfulness will ever preserve me! For evils have encompassed me beyond number…” Ps.40.11-12 ESV
Let me get this straight. God loves me and evil surrounds me; evil surrounds me and God loves me. I think it important to realize and the sooner the better, that it is not so much that God’s love means a carefree life of wealth, health and ease, as it is that He promises to care for us through tough times. The Lord is able to keep us from storms but often chooses, even prefers, to see us though them. He has not promised a life free from tribulation indeed He promises just the opposite. In fact, the Bible records great hardship in the lives of those who loved and called upon the Lord and often because they called upon Him. We may wonder why God not only allows such suffering to come upon His children but He promises it. Can it be that He really does view proven faith as more valuable than gold or physical health or freedom or even life? Jesus said He does and until we do, some of His ways may seem crude even cruel to us. 4/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Let me get this straight. God loves me and evil surrounds me; evil surrounds me and God loves me. I think it important to realize and the sooner the better, that it is not so much that God’s love means a carefree life of wealth, health and ease, as it is that He promises to care for us through tough times. The Lord is able to keep us from storms but often chooses, even prefers, to see us though them. He has not promised a life free from tribulation indeed He promises just the opposite. In fact, the Bible records great hardship in the lives of those who loved and called upon the Lord and often because they called upon Him. We may wonder why God not only allows such suffering to come upon His children but He promises it. Can it be that He really does view proven faith as more valuable than gold or physical health or freedom or even life? Jesus said He does and until we do, some of His ways may seem crude even cruel to us. 4/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
“God will not look you over for medals, degrees, or diplomas, but for scars.” Elbert Hubbard
"…your steadfast love and your faithfulness will ever preserve me! For evils have encompassed me beyond number…” Ps.40.11-12 ESV
Let me get this straight. God loves me and evil surrounds me; evil surrounds me and God loves me. I think it important to realize and the sooner the better, that it is not so much that God’s love means a carefree life of wealth, health and ease, as it is that He promises to care for us through tough times. The Lord is able to keep us from storms but often chooses, even prefers, to see us though them. He has not promised a life free from tribulation indeed He promises just the opposite. In fact, the Bible records great hardship in the lives of those who loved and called upon the Lord and often because they called upon Him. We may wonder why God not only allows such suffering to come upon His children but He promises it. Can it be that He really does view proven faith as more valuable than gold or physical health or freedom or even life? Jesus said He does and until we do, some of His ways may seem crude even cruel to us. 4/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Let me get this straight. God loves me and evil surrounds me; evil surrounds me and God loves me. I think it important to realize and the sooner the better, that it is not so much that God’s love means a carefree life of wealth, health and ease, as it is that He promises to care for us through tough times. The Lord is able to keep us from storms but often chooses, even prefers, to see us though them. He has not promised a life free from tribulation indeed He promises just the opposite. In fact, the Bible records great hardship in the lives of those who loved and called upon the Lord and often because they called upon Him. We may wonder why God not only allows such suffering to come upon His children but He promises it. Can it be that He really does view proven faith as more valuable than gold or physical health or freedom or even life? Jesus said He does and until we do, some of His ways may seem crude even cruel to us. 4/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, April 10, 2009
"If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world." C.S. Lewis
“O Lord, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Ps.39.4 ESV
Why would we want God to help us keep in mind how short life is in this place? Is it to teach us the value of time or something else? We’ve heard it said that time is precious and we should not waste a moment of it. But another way of looking at it, is that life is so brief, so short lived that really doesn’t amount to much no matter what we do. I am speaking of course about life here under the sun. We can try to squeeze in as many life experiences as we can but living this way is like going to Disney World and having only thirty minutes to enjoy it. So little time is allotted to us here. If this is all there is to life it seems hardy worth the effort! And, that may very well be the point that God wants to press home, not to bring despair mind you so much as to create a change in our focus. David concludes “And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. 4/ 8/2009 Conversations Within ts
Why would we want God to help us keep in mind how short life is in this place? Is it to teach us the value of time or something else? We’ve heard it said that time is precious and we should not waste a moment of it. But another way of looking at it, is that life is so brief, so short lived that really doesn’t amount to much no matter what we do. I am speaking of course about life here under the sun. We can try to squeeze in as many life experiences as we can but living this way is like going to Disney World and having only thirty minutes to enjoy it. So little time is allotted to us here. If this is all there is to life it seems hardy worth the effort! And, that may very well be the point that God wants to press home, not to bring despair mind you so much as to create a change in our focus. David concludes “And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. 4/ 8/2009 Conversations Within ts
"If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world." C.S. Lewis
“O Lord, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Ps.39.4 ESV
Why would we want God to help us keep in mind how short life is in this place? Is it to teach us the value of time or something else? We’ve heard it said that time is precious and we should not waste a moment of it. But another way of looking at it, is that life is so brief, so short lived that really doesn’t amount to much no matter what we do. I am speaking of course about life here under the sun. We can try to squeeze in as many life experiences as we can but living this way is like going to Disney World and having only thirty minutes to enjoy it. So little time is allotted to us here. If this is all there is to life it seems hardy worth the effort! And, that may very well be the point that God wants to press home, not to bring despair mind you so much as to create a change in our focus. David concludes “And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. 4/ 8/2009 Conversations Within ts
Why would we want God to help us keep in mind how short life is in this place? Is it to teach us the value of time or something else? We’ve heard it said that time is precious and we should not waste a moment of it. But another way of looking at it, is that life is so brief, so short lived that really doesn’t amount to much no matter what we do. I am speaking of course about life here under the sun. We can try to squeeze in as many life experiences as we can but living this way is like going to Disney World and having only thirty minutes to enjoy it. So little time is allotted to us here. If this is all there is to life it seems hardy worth the effort! And, that may very well be the point that God wants to press home, not to bring despair mind you so much as to create a change in our focus. David concludes “And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. 4/ 8/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Friendship improves happiness and abates misery, by the doubling of our joy and the dividing of our grief. Marcus Cicero.
O Lord, all my longing is before you; my sighing is not hidden from you. Ps.38.9 ESV
We are pretty much at war within, a conflict between what we are and what we are becoming. God is beside us in this conflict; He has experienced it firsthand in Christ. I cannot begin to understand how Jesus was tempted in every way that we are tempted, but we are assured that He fully identifies with us and not just sympathetically. His human experience is said to be somehow caught up into the divine and because of this, He has become an effective advocate and ally. Our inward sighs and our longing for transformation reflect His life in us, both our desire to grow and the power to do so. 4/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
We are pretty much at war within, a conflict between what we are and what we are becoming. God is beside us in this conflict; He has experienced it firsthand in Christ. I cannot begin to understand how Jesus was tempted in every way that we are tempted, but we are assured that He fully identifies with us and not just sympathetically. His human experience is said to be somehow caught up into the divine and because of this, He has become an effective advocate and ally. Our inward sighs and our longing for transformation reflect His life in us, both our desire to grow and the power to do so. 4/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friendship improves happiness and abates misery, by the doubling of our joy and the dividing of our grief. Marcus Cicero.
O Lord, all my longing is before you; my sighing is not hidden from you. Ps.38.9 ESV
We are pretty much at war within, a conflict between what we are and what we are becoming. God is beside us in this conflict; He has experienced it firsthand in Christ. I cannot begin to understand how Jesus was tempted in every way that we are tempted, but we are assured that He fully identifies with us and not just sympathetically. His human experience is said to be somehow caught up into the divine and because of this, He has become an effective advocate and ally. Our inward sighs and our longing for transformation reflect His life in us, both our desire to grow and the power to do so. 4/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
We are pretty much at war within, a conflict between what we are and what we are becoming. God is beside us in this conflict; He has experienced it firsthand in Christ. I cannot begin to understand how Jesus was tempted in every way that we are tempted, but we are assured that He fully identifies with us and not just sympathetically. His human experience is said to be somehow caught up into the divine and because of this, He has become an effective advocate and ally. Our inward sighs and our longing for transformation reflect His life in us, both our desire to grow and the power to do so. 4/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
“Ding-dong, the wicked witch is dead.” E. Y. Harburg
“Better is the little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked.” Ps.37.16 ESV
The meaning of a word may change with its use. In addition to it original use, the word “wicked” can also be used like the word “very” or the word “awesome.” We say that a car is wicked cool, or that the day is wicked hot, or I have to walk a wicked long way or my friend just told me a wicked story. We might even say that a person is wicked wicked, meaning of course that that they are very wicked. When we use the word “wicked” as we used the word “very” it carries with it the idea of much and of course, the opposite of much is little. We could then properly say that it is better to have wicked little and be wicked righteous, than to have wicked much and be wicked wicked. And that’s the wicked truth. 4/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
The meaning of a word may change with its use. In addition to it original use, the word “wicked” can also be used like the word “very” or the word “awesome.” We say that a car is wicked cool, or that the day is wicked hot, or I have to walk a wicked long way or my friend just told me a wicked story. We might even say that a person is wicked wicked, meaning of course that that they are very wicked. When we use the word “wicked” as we used the word “very” it carries with it the idea of much and of course, the opposite of much is little. We could then properly say that it is better to have wicked little and be wicked righteous, than to have wicked much and be wicked wicked. And that’s the wicked truth. 4/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Ding-dong, the wicked witch is dead.” E. Y. Harburg
“Better is the little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked.” Ps.37.16 ESV
The meaning of a word may change with its use. In addition to it original use, the word “wicked” can also be used like the word “very” or the word “awesome.” We say that a car is wicked cool, or that the day is wicked hot, or I have to walk a wicked long way or my friend just told me a wicked story. We might even say that a person is wicked wicked, meaning of course that that they are very wicked. When we use the word “wicked” as we used the word “very” it carries with it the idea of much and of course, the opposite of much is little. We could then properly say that it is better to have wicked little and be wicked righteous, than to have wicked much and be wicked wicked. And that’s the wicked truth. 4/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
The meaning of a word may change with its use. In addition to it original use, the word “wicked” can also be used like the word “very” or the word “awesome.” We say that a car is wicked cool, or that the day is wicked hot, or I have to walk a wicked long way or my friend just told me a wicked story. We might even say that a person is wicked wicked, meaning of course that that they are very wicked. When we use the word “wicked” as we used the word “very” it carries with it the idea of much and of course, the opposite of much is little. We could then properly say that it is better to have wicked little and be wicked righteous, than to have wicked much and be wicked wicked. And that’s the wicked truth. 4/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
“The greatest deception men suffer is from their own opinions.” Leonardo da Vinci
“they are thrust down, unable to rise.” Ps.36.12 ESV
I was reading one of those get to know you emails where you share personal information with your friends. One of the questions made me really thing for a moment. “What are you afraid of?” After a brief pause, I typed, “Self-deception.” One of the reasons that the wicked fall and do not recover is that their pride has blinded their eyes and they see no need for the mercies of Christ. They believe that they already walk in the truth, so they never search for it. There is no greater darkness than to be in the darkness and believe that you are in the light. There is no greater lie than lying to your heart. 4/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
I was reading one of those get to know you emails where you share personal information with your friends. One of the questions made me really thing for a moment. “What are you afraid of?” After a brief pause, I typed, “Self-deception.” One of the reasons that the wicked fall and do not recover is that their pride has blinded their eyes and they see no need for the mercies of Christ. They believe that they already walk in the truth, so they never search for it. There is no greater darkness than to be in the darkness and believe that you are in the light. There is no greater lie than lying to your heart. 4/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The greatest deception men suffer is from their own opinions.” Leonardo da Vinci
“they are thrust down, unable to rise.” Ps.36.12 ESV
I was reading one of those get to know you emails where you share personal information with your friends. One of the questions made me really thing for a moment. “What are you afraid of?” After a brief pause, I typed, “Self-deception.” One of the reasons that the wicked fall and do not recover is that their pride has blinded their eyes and they see no need for the mercies of Christ. They believe that they already walk in the truth, so they never search for it. There is no greater darkness than to be in the darkness and believe that you are in the light. There is no greater lie than lying to your heart. 4/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
I was reading one of those get to know you emails where you share personal information with your friends. One of the questions made me really thing for a moment. “What are you afraid of?” After a brief pause, I typed, “Self-deception.” One of the reasons that the wicked fall and do not recover is that their pride has blinded their eyes and they see no need for the mercies of Christ. They believe that they already walk in the truth, so they never search for it. There is no greater darkness than to be in the darkness and believe that you are in the light. There is no greater lie than lying to your heart. 4/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 6, 2009
“I love a meal that ‘sticks to your bones.’”
“All my bones shall say, “O Lord, who is like you…” Ps.35.10 ESV
If you have ever heard anyone say that they were “bone cold” or “chilled to the bone,” you knew they were trying to tell you that they were seriously cold. It’s hard to get any deeper than your bones. We may take it that when David’s prayed, “All my bones shall say,” he was trying put into words his very deep appreciation of God’s mercy. He felt it in the core of his being. He felt it in his bones. Lord, sometimes I think I need a bone marrow transplant. I need You to replace the unhealthy marrow of my doubts and fears with the strong marrow of confident faith and praise. I want the very core of my being to radiate the spiritual health of a grateful heart. I want to know your great value in Christ I want to believe Your goodness in my bones. 4/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
If you have ever heard anyone say that they were “bone cold” or “chilled to the bone,” you knew they were trying to tell you that they were seriously cold. It’s hard to get any deeper than your bones. We may take it that when David’s prayed, “All my bones shall say,” he was trying put into words his very deep appreciation of God’s mercy. He felt it in the core of his being. He felt it in his bones. Lord, sometimes I think I need a bone marrow transplant. I need You to replace the unhealthy marrow of my doubts and fears with the strong marrow of confident faith and praise. I want the very core of my being to radiate the spiritual health of a grateful heart. I want to know your great value in Christ I want to believe Your goodness in my bones. 4/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
“I love a meal that ‘sticks to your bones.’”
“All my bones shall say, “O Lord, who is like you…” Ps.35.10 ESV
If you have ever heard anyone say that they were “bone cold” or “chilled to the bone,” you knew they were trying to tell you that they were seriously cold. It’s hard to get any deeper than your bones. We may take it that when David’s prayed, “All my bones shall say,” he was trying put into words his very deep appreciation of God’s mercy. He felt it in the core of his being. He felt it in his bones. Lord, sometimes I think I need a bone marrow transplant. I need You to replace the unhealthy marrow of my doubts and fears with the strong marrow of confident faith and praise. I want the very core of my being to radiate the spiritual health of a grateful heart. I want to know your great value in Christ I want to believe Your goodness in my bones. 4/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
If you have ever heard anyone say that they were “bone cold” or “chilled to the bone,” you knew they were trying to tell you that they were seriously cold. It’s hard to get any deeper than your bones. We may take it that when David’s prayed, “All my bones shall say,” he was trying put into words his very deep appreciation of God’s mercy. He felt it in the core of his being. He felt it in his bones. Lord, sometimes I think I need a bone marrow transplant. I need You to replace the unhealthy marrow of my doubts and fears with the strong marrow of confident faith and praise. I want the very core of my being to radiate the spiritual health of a grateful heart. I want to know your great value in Christ I want to believe Your goodness in my bones. 4/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 4, 2009
“We always paid for our suspicion by finding what we suspect.” Henry David Thoreau
“He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken.” Ps.34.20 ESV
I am not sure what is signified by these words. They were referenced of Christ when He died on the cross. When the Romans came to break his legs, they found that He had already died so instead, they thrust a spear into His side. Jesus died with His bones intact. It is interesting that the Jews were instructed to not break any of the bones of the Passover lamb. What lies hidden in these words, “He keeps all his bones.” Many Christians have had their bones broken in service to God so we know these words are not to be taken in that sense. Could it be that while God permits His people to suffer, even leads them to it, that He places certain limits on it. Spurgeon understood these words to imply that “No substantial injury occurs to the saints. Eternity will heal all their wounds. Their real self is safe; they may have flesh-wounds, but no part of the essential fabric of their being shall be broken.” We know there are limits that God places on our suffering and whatever these words mean, we should suspect that God is up to something and, as always, certainly something redemptively good. 4/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
I am not sure what is signified by these words. They were referenced of Christ when He died on the cross. When the Romans came to break his legs, they found that He had already died so instead, they thrust a spear into His side. Jesus died with His bones intact. It is interesting that the Jews were instructed to not break any of the bones of the Passover lamb. What lies hidden in these words, “He keeps all his bones.” Many Christians have had their bones broken in service to God so we know these words are not to be taken in that sense. Could it be that while God permits His people to suffer, even leads them to it, that He places certain limits on it. Spurgeon understood these words to imply that “No substantial injury occurs to the saints. Eternity will heal all their wounds. Their real self is safe; they may have flesh-wounds, but no part of the essential fabric of their being shall be broken.” We know there are limits that God places on our suffering and whatever these words mean, we should suspect that God is up to something and, as always, certainly something redemptively good. 4/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
“We always paid for our suspicion by finding what we suspect.” Henry David Thoreau
“He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken.” Ps.34.20 ESV
I am not sure what is signified by these words. They were referenced of Christ when He died on the cross. When the Romans came to break his legs, they found that He had already died so instead, they thrust a spear into His side. Jesus died with His bones intact. It is interesting that the Jews were instructed to not break any of the bones of the Passover lamb. What lies hidden in these words, “He keeps all his bones.” Many Christians have had their bones broken in service to God so we know these words are not to be taken in that sense. Could it be that while God permits His people to suffer, even leads them to it, that He places certain limits on it. Spurgeon understood these words to imply that “No substantial injury occurs to the saints. Eternity will heal all their wounds. Their real self is safe; they may have flesh-wounds, but no part of the essential fabric of their being shall be broken.” We know there are limits that God places on our suffering and whatever these words mean, we should suspect that God is up to something and, as always, certainly something redemptively good. 4/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
I am not sure what is signified by these words. They were referenced of Christ when He died on the cross. When the Romans came to break his legs, they found that He had already died so instead, they thrust a spear into His side. Jesus died with His bones intact. It is interesting that the Jews were instructed to not break any of the bones of the Passover lamb. What lies hidden in these words, “He keeps all his bones.” Many Christians have had their bones broken in service to God so we know these words are not to be taken in that sense. Could it be that while God permits His people to suffer, even leads them to it, that He places certain limits on it. Spurgeon understood these words to imply that “No substantial injury occurs to the saints. Eternity will heal all their wounds. Their real self is safe; they may have flesh-wounds, but no part of the essential fabric of their being shall be broken.” We know there are limits that God places on our suffering and whatever these words mean, we should suspect that God is up to something and, as always, certainly something redemptively good. 4/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 2, 2009
“We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” Thornton Wilder
“…the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord.” Ps.33.5 ESV
We depend on all that is dependable; even take these things for granted. The sun rose this morning, gravity holds me in my seat, my eyes process light, my lungs air, my belly food. Should we not be as constant in our appreciation as God is constant in love? May the Lord come to expect our daily praise as we have come to expect the rising sun. Imagine the Father and Son lifting their head, confident at the time of the evening sacrifice, to listen to sweet sound of grateful praise coming from the lips of their children. Do we not stoop to smell the rose and expect its sweet fragrance? Shouldn’t God expect the pleasant aroma of thanksgiving when He stoops to inhale our prayers? 3/31/2009 Conversations Within ts
We depend on all that is dependable; even take these things for granted. The sun rose this morning, gravity holds me in my seat, my eyes process light, my lungs air, my belly food. Should we not be as constant in our appreciation as God is constant in love? May the Lord come to expect our daily praise as we have come to expect the rising sun. Imagine the Father and Son lifting their head, confident at the time of the evening sacrifice, to listen to sweet sound of grateful praise coming from the lips of their children. Do we not stoop to smell the rose and expect its sweet fragrance? Shouldn’t God expect the pleasant aroma of thanksgiving when He stoops to inhale our prayers? 3/31/2009 Conversations Within ts
“We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” Thornton Wilder
“…the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord.” Ps.33.5 ESV
We depend on all that is dependable; even take these things for granted. The sun rose this morning, gravity holds me in my seat, my eyes process light, my lungs air, my belly food. Should we not be as constant in our appreciation as God is constant in love? May the Lord come to expect our daily praise as we have come to expect the rising sun. Imagine the Father and Son lifting their head, confident at the time of the evening sacrifice, to listen to sweet sound of grateful praise coming from the lips of their children. Do we not stoop to smell the rose and expect its sweet fragrance? Shouldn’t God expect the pleasant aroma of thanksgiving when He stoops to inhale our prayers? 3/31/2009 Conversations Within ts
We depend on all that is dependable; even take these things for granted. The sun rose this morning, gravity holds me in my seat, my eyes process light, my lungs air, my belly food. Should we not be as constant in our appreciation as God is constant in love? May the Lord come to expect our daily praise as we have come to expect the rising sun. Imagine the Father and Son lifting their head, confident at the time of the evening sacrifice, to listen to sweet sound of grateful praise coming from the lips of their children. Do we not stoop to smell the rose and expect its sweet fragrance? Shouldn’t God expect the pleasant aroma of thanksgiving when He stoops to inhale our prayers? 3/31/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
“Some men think that they must come to him in a certain way -
that they must be stirred by emotion or something like that.” Billy Sunday
“I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.” Ps.32.5 ESV
This passage has provided me a well-worn path to the throne of grace, one that I have used to lift burden of my guilt. I wish I could say that I have been equally concerned with how much my sin has hurt God and while I am slowly waking to this, I fear that my confessions of guilt are still rather self-centered. I must confess my confessions. The truth is that sometimes I want the weight of my sin lifted, so I don’t feel so very bad. Still the joy of forgiveness is a precious thing and I have never once been turned away. God forgives! I have always believed that He is more willing to forgive than we are willing to ask for it. I don’t think God necessarily wants us to necessarily feel bad, as it is that He wants us to repent and if feeling bad hinders that because of some wounded pride, it would be better to forget feelings and just attend to one’s attitudes and actions. 3/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
“I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.” Ps.32.5 ESV
This passage has provided me a well-worn path to the throne of grace, one that I have used to lift burden of my guilt. I wish I could say that I have been equally concerned with how much my sin has hurt God and while I am slowly waking to this, I fear that my confessions of guilt are still rather self-centered. I must confess my confessions. The truth is that sometimes I want the weight of my sin lifted, so I don’t feel so very bad. Still the joy of forgiveness is a precious thing and I have never once been turned away. God forgives! I have always believed that He is more willing to forgive than we are willing to ask for it. I don’t think God necessarily wants us to necessarily feel bad, as it is that He wants us to repent and if feeling bad hinders that because of some wounded pride, it would be better to forget feelings and just attend to one’s attitudes and actions. 3/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Some men think that they must come to him in a certain way -
that they must be stirred by emotion or something like that.” Billy Sunday
“I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.” Ps.32.5 ESV
This passage has provided me a well-worn path to the throne of grace, one that I have used to lift burden of my guilt. I wish I could say that I have been equally concerned with how much my sin has hurt God and while I am slowly waking to this, I fear that my confessions of guilt are still rather self-centered. I must confess my confessions. The truth is that sometimes I want the weight of my sin lifted, so I don’t feel so very bad. Still the joy of forgiveness is a precious thing and I have never once been turned away. God forgives! I have always believed that He is more willing to forgive than we are willing to ask for it. I don’t think God necessarily wants us to necessarily feel bad, as it is that He wants us to repent and if feeling bad hinders that because of some wounded pride, it would be better to forget feelings and just attend to one’s attitudes and actions. 3/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
“I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.” Ps.32.5 ESV
This passage has provided me a well-worn path to the throne of grace, one that I have used to lift burden of my guilt. I wish I could say that I have been equally concerned with how much my sin has hurt God and while I am slowly waking to this, I fear that my confessions of guilt are still rather self-centered. I must confess my confessions. The truth is that sometimes I want the weight of my sin lifted, so I don’t feel so very bad. Still the joy of forgiveness is a precious thing and I have never once been turned away. God forgives! I have always believed that He is more willing to forgive than we are willing to ask for it. I don’t think God necessarily wants us to necessarily feel bad, as it is that He wants us to repent and if feeling bad hinders that because of some wounded pride, it would be better to forget feelings and just attend to one’s attitudes and actions. 3/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
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