Job 37: 1 – 18
I once told a co-worker, “How can you look around and not see the hand of God in creation?”
Okay. It wasn't a statement it was a question but what's the difference.
The important thing is that if we look at a sunset, see the complexity of a flower in bloom, or witness the birth of a baby.
Well all I can say is you can't get a prize like this in a box of Cracker Jack.
1 ¶ "Whenever this happens, my heart stops—I’m stunned, I can’t catch my breath.
5 His word thundering so wondrously, his mighty acts staggering our understanding.
10 It’s God’s breath that forms the ice, it’s God’s breath that turns lakes and rivers solid.
11 And yes, it’s God who fills clouds with rainwater and hurls lightning from them every which way.
15 Do you have any idea how God does it all, how he makes bright lightning from dark storms,
16 How he piles up the cumulus clouds—all these miracle-wonders of a perfect Mind?
Just take a look around.
Be amazed by what you see.
I love you guys.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
ZAT YOU?
John 10: 1 – 6
I was in grade school.
My parents and I had gone shopping in a department store. While we were there I wandered off . When I went back to where I was supposed to be I saw my mother from the rear at the end of an aisle. When I got to her and spoke to her to tell her that I was back, the woman,s voice was not that of my mother's, it was just a woman who happened to be wearing a coat like mom's and had a similar hair cut. I was filled with anxiety and turned to run from her when I heard the voices of both my parents just one row over.
I ran to them with relief and didn't leave them for the rest of our visit to that store.
I felt safe and at home when I heard the voices of my parents and felt unsafe when I heard the strange voice of the other woman.
It's the same with Jesus.
People like us whom follow Him, know Him and know His word.
We are not easily led astray by fakes and charlatans.
1 "I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber.
2 The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep.
3 The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.
4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
5 But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognise a stranger’s voice."
6 Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.
Be careful out there.
Don't fall for the fakers.
Listen to the voice of God.
Take comfort from it.
I was in grade school.
My parents and I had gone shopping in a department store. While we were there I wandered off . When I went back to where I was supposed to be I saw my mother from the rear at the end of an aisle. When I got to her and spoke to her to tell her that I was back, the woman,s voice was not that of my mother's, it was just a woman who happened to be wearing a coat like mom's and had a similar hair cut. I was filled with anxiety and turned to run from her when I heard the voices of both my parents just one row over.
I ran to them with relief and didn't leave them for the rest of our visit to that store.
I felt safe and at home when I heard the voices of my parents and felt unsafe when I heard the strange voice of the other woman.
It's the same with Jesus.
People like us whom follow Him, know Him and know His word.
We are not easily led astray by fakes and charlatans.
1 "I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber.
2 The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep.
3 The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.
4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
5 But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognise a stranger’s voice."
6 Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.
Be careful out there.
Don't fall for the fakers.
Listen to the voice of God.
Take comfort from it.
Monday, October 19, 2009
LOST
Mark 16 24 – 28
As I look over my life, I can see that there were times that I had no interest in my eternal existence.
I had the old reasoning that I wanted to go to hell because all my friends would be there.
Some fun right?
I thought that money, booze, drugs, women, and a cool bike was the ticket to a good life. And after all, if I didn't hurt anybody while living like this, if people thought that I was a good person, well then I'd go to heaven.
Wouldn't I?
25 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.
26 What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?
I had heard that that philosophy about gaining the world and losing my soul, but, I was just a ham and egger. I had no interest in gaining great power, and every thing I did, I did with a little soul.
What a fool I was back then.
27 For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done.
Uh oh.
There's that old God's word goes against my ways again.
I had seen the old TV shows and movies where one character says that he just wants what he deserves according to what he had done and it always ended badly.
As I said, I thought being a good person was enough. But, I knew somewhere in the back of my mind that I would truly get what I deserved.
I was kinda scared of that one.
So, I was starting to look for ways to change my circumstances.
24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
Hey we all have our cross to bear, I just wasn't up to what that saying really meant.
Then as we look at these scriptures that phrase takes on a whole different meaning doesn't it?
Take heed
take heart.
Remember where we all came from.
We all got here by following different yet similar paths.
We have all come to walk the same path following God.
As I look over my life, I can see that there were times that I had no interest in my eternal existence.
I had the old reasoning that I wanted to go to hell because all my friends would be there.
Some fun right?
I thought that money, booze, drugs, women, and a cool bike was the ticket to a good life. And after all, if I didn't hurt anybody while living like this, if people thought that I was a good person, well then I'd go to heaven.
Wouldn't I?
25 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.
26 What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?
I had heard that that philosophy about gaining the world and losing my soul, but, I was just a ham and egger. I had no interest in gaining great power, and every thing I did, I did with a little soul.
What a fool I was back then.
27 For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done.
Uh oh.
There's that old God's word goes against my ways again.
I had seen the old TV shows and movies where one character says that he just wants what he deserves according to what he had done and it always ended badly.
As I said, I thought being a good person was enough. But, I knew somewhere in the back of my mind that I would truly get what I deserved.
I was kinda scared of that one.
So, I was starting to look for ways to change my circumstances.
24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
Hey we all have our cross to bear, I just wasn't up to what that saying really meant.
Then as we look at these scriptures that phrase takes on a whole different meaning doesn't it?
Take heed
take heart.
Remember where we all came from.
We all got here by following different yet similar paths.
We have all come to walk the same path following God.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
THAT'S A TOUGH ACT TO FOLLOW.
Joshua 1: 1 – 9
Rice had to follow Yaz. Yaz had to follow Williams. Somebody had to follow DiMaggio and Ruth. And so it goes. Each new guy had a lot to live up to. They had to work harder than their predecessors just to come in a close second until they were finally able to creep out of the shadow of the legend they followed.
I'm sure that during their early days replacing the known hero, the replacement was given encouragement from the Team owner and manager.
When we take the lead whether it's at work, in church, or with our families, we all are in need of time and encouragement to get through those early adjustment days.
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant:
2 "Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites.
3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses.
5 No-one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.
6 "Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them.
If we think we have it hard, imagine what it must have been like for Joshua taking over after Moses died.
Talk about following in the footsteps of a hero.
But, God knows what He is doing when He chooses a leader.
9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
With encouragement like that, how can we fail? How can we not gain the trust of those who follow our lead?
Listen to God's command. He knows what He's doing.
Follow His commands.
Rice had to follow Yaz. Yaz had to follow Williams. Somebody had to follow DiMaggio and Ruth. And so it goes. Each new guy had a lot to live up to. They had to work harder than their predecessors just to come in a close second until they were finally able to creep out of the shadow of the legend they followed.
I'm sure that during their early days replacing the known hero, the replacement was given encouragement from the Team owner and manager.
When we take the lead whether it's at work, in church, or with our families, we all are in need of time and encouragement to get through those early adjustment days.
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant:
2 "Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites.
3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses.
5 No-one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.
6 "Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them.
If we think we have it hard, imagine what it must have been like for Joshua taking over after Moses died.
Talk about following in the footsteps of a hero.
But, God knows what He is doing when He chooses a leader.
9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
With encouragement like that, how can we fail? How can we not gain the trust of those who follow our lead?
Listen to God's command. He knows what He's doing.
Follow His commands.
Friday, October 16, 2009
VICTORY
1 Thessalonians 4: 15 – 18
15 According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.
16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.
17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord for ever.
18 Therefore encourage each other with these words.
Encourage each other with these words?
Boy Howdy!
Those words can, for the most part, be all the encouragement that I need.
To be able to boldly proclaim that we will spend eternity with the Lord.
A couple of years ago, it so happened that two people I knew passed away around the same time. One was saved the other not. When I spoke on the phone with the family of my unsaved friend there was sadness and fear in their voices as they wept and sadly told me of the funeral arrangements. I went to the wake to find a room full of sorrowful people.
When I spoke to the family of my saved friend, although the missed their family member, they said that there would be a memorial service at his church and that I should stop by. It should be a real good time.
What was the difference?
Christ.
As we are taught in Sunday school, Jesus is the answer to everything.
15 According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.
16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.
17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord for ever.
18 Therefore encourage each other with these words.
Encourage each other with these words?
Boy Howdy!
Those words can, for the most part, be all the encouragement that I need.
To be able to boldly proclaim that we will spend eternity with the Lord.
A couple of years ago, it so happened that two people I knew passed away around the same time. One was saved the other not. When I spoke on the phone with the family of my unsaved friend there was sadness and fear in their voices as they wept and sadly told me of the funeral arrangements. I went to the wake to find a room full of sorrowful people.
When I spoke to the family of my saved friend, although the missed their family member, they said that there would be a memorial service at his church and that I should stop by. It should be a real good time.
What was the difference?
Christ.
As we are taught in Sunday school, Jesus is the answer to everything.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
CONFLICT RESOLUTION DAY?
Philippians 4: 1 – 9
Nobody was more surprised than me to read about this weird holiday that I was this morning.
Ever hear of it?
Today is observed in many countries as International Conflict Resolution Day. Its purpose is to encourage people to use mediation and arbitration rather than the legal system to settle their differences. Because we as followers of Christ are not immune to conflict, we need to learn how to resolve our disagreements in ways that honor the Lord.
It has been said that “church fights are the worst fights,” perhaps because they break out among people who profess to believe in unity and love. Many Christians have been so hurt by a fellow believer that they walk away from the church and never return. (ODB)
I guess that's why God saw fit to have Paul write the letter to the church at Philippi. The conditions were ripe for an example of working things out within the church body with prayer and meditation.
1 Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends!
2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord.
3 Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
If we are found to be in conflict, here is an example of how we are to get out of it.
HAPPY CONFLICT RESOLUTION DAY!
I love you guys.
Nobody was more surprised than me to read about this weird holiday that I was this morning.
Ever hear of it?
Today is observed in many countries as International Conflict Resolution Day. Its purpose is to encourage people to use mediation and arbitration rather than the legal system to settle their differences. Because we as followers of Christ are not immune to conflict, we need to learn how to resolve our disagreements in ways that honor the Lord.
It has been said that “church fights are the worst fights,” perhaps because they break out among people who profess to believe in unity and love. Many Christians have been so hurt by a fellow believer that they walk away from the church and never return. (ODB)
I guess that's why God saw fit to have Paul write the letter to the church at Philippi. The conditions were ripe for an example of working things out within the church body with prayer and meditation.
1 Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends!
2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord.
3 Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
If we are found to be in conflict, here is an example of how we are to get out of it.
HAPPY CONFLICT RESOLUTION DAY!
I love you guys.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
BE STILL
Psalm 46
Ever tell somebody to try and go to sleep?
Or maybe try to relax?
Have you ever said to someone, “I've been trying to sleep all night but I'm still awake.”
With sleeping or relaxing, I must quote Yoda in the movie, “The Empire Strikes Back,”
“No try.” “Do or not do.”
Trying wipes out the effect of sleep and relaxation.
10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
The Psalmist gets it. He did not say try to be still, he said to be still.
It's sometimes called letting go.
Like letting go of this problem or that.
Releasing our burdens because God's yoke is easy.
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Selah
Thank heaven for that.
I don't care what anyone says, or how strong they claim to be, we all need a place of refuge.
Someplace where we can let down our guard and let someone else provide the strength.
A place where we can feel safe, not where we try to be safe.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
7 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
9 He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire.
So relax. Take a deep breathe and be still. God is in control.
Do, or not do.
There is no try.
Ever tell somebody to try and go to sleep?
Or maybe try to relax?
Have you ever said to someone, “I've been trying to sleep all night but I'm still awake.”
With sleeping or relaxing, I must quote Yoda in the movie, “The Empire Strikes Back,”
“No try.” “Do or not do.”
Trying wipes out the effect of sleep and relaxation.
10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
The Psalmist gets it. He did not say try to be still, he said to be still.
It's sometimes called letting go.
Like letting go of this problem or that.
Releasing our burdens because God's yoke is easy.
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Selah
Thank heaven for that.
I don't care what anyone says, or how strong they claim to be, we all need a place of refuge.
Someplace where we can let down our guard and let someone else provide the strength.
A place where we can feel safe, not where we try to be safe.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
7 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
9 He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire.
So relax. Take a deep breathe and be still. God is in control.
Do, or not do.
There is no try.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
GOT IT GOIN' ON
1 Kings 10: 4 – 10
I'm sure that we have all heard the expression, “You may be the only Bible that some people read.”
Basically it means that we are to live as for Christ, and be examples of His love, peace, and strength.
Seeing how we live, and the joy in our hearts, there are people who will become impressed enough to want to praise God, and want to know more about Him.
I think that this is what was happening with the Queen of Sheba.
4 When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon and the palace he had built,
5 the food on his table, the seating of his officials, the attending servants in their robes, his cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he made at the temple of the LORD, she was overwhelmed.
6 She said to the king, "The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true.
7 But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told me; in wisdom and wealth you have far exceeded the report I heard.
8 How happy your men must be! How happy your officials, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom!
9 Praise be to the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel. Because of the LORD’s eternal love for Israel, he has made you king, to maintain justice and righteousness."
10 And she gave the king 120 talents of gold, large quantities of spices, and precious stones. Never again were so many spices brought in as those the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.
I'd say that she was pretty impressed with Solomon, Jerusalem and it's people, and God.
Can we say that God has impressed upon our lives such power that our lifestyle is attractive to others? Can they say Praise to the Lord your God?
I'm sure that we have all heard the expression, “You may be the only Bible that some people read.”
Basically it means that we are to live as for Christ, and be examples of His love, peace, and strength.
Seeing how we live, and the joy in our hearts, there are people who will become impressed enough to want to praise God, and want to know more about Him.
I think that this is what was happening with the Queen of Sheba.
4 When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon and the palace he had built,
5 the food on his table, the seating of his officials, the attending servants in their robes, his cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he made at the temple of the LORD, she was overwhelmed.
6 She said to the king, "The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true.
7 But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told me; in wisdom and wealth you have far exceeded the report I heard.
8 How happy your men must be! How happy your officials, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom!
9 Praise be to the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel. Because of the LORD’s eternal love for Israel, he has made you king, to maintain justice and righteousness."
10 And she gave the king 120 talents of gold, large quantities of spices, and precious stones. Never again were so many spices brought in as those the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.
I'd say that she was pretty impressed with Solomon, Jerusalem and it's people, and God.
Can we say that God has impressed upon our lives such power that our lifestyle is attractive to others? Can they say Praise to the Lord your God?
Monday, October 12, 2009
THANKFULLNESS
Philemon 1: 4 – 16
I really hate bad news.
I should probably rephrase that statement to I really dislike bad news.
I found out this morning that I may have to spend a significant amount of money to repair our septic system.
Of this, I wasn't very thankful.
To be truthful, I was feeling pretty sorry for myself.
I don't want to be giving thanks for this. Inside, I feel like I'm getting a raw deal and want to scream, “Why Me!” “why do these things always happen to me?”
But, God wants us to be thankful for all things, no matter how hard that may seem to be.
And to be honest, I am thankful that I don't have to build an outhouse, or call for a port-a-potty.
At times like this, I think of the word and wonder what comfort I can receive.
4 Every time your name comes up in my prayers, I say, "Oh, thank you, God!"
5 I keep hearing of the love and faith you have for the Master Jesus, which brims over to other Christians.
6 And I keep praying that this faith we hold in common keeps showing up in the good things we do, and that people recognize Christ in all of it.
This should be a goal that we all strive for. To be known for our love and faith that we have.
To be able to handle things that it can be said that we can be truly thankful no matter what the circumstances.
10 While here in jail, I’ve fathered a child, so to speak. And here he is, hand-carrying this letter—Onesimus!
11 He was useless to you before; now he’s useful to both of us.
12 I’m sending him back to you, but it feels like I’m cutting off my right arm in doing so.
13 I wanted in the worst way to keep him here as your stand-in to help out while I’m in jail for the Message.
14 But I didn’t want to do anything behind your back, make you do a good deed that you hadn’t willingly agreed to.
15 Maybe it’s all for the best that you lost him for a while. You’re getting him back now for good—
16 and no mere slave this time, but a true Christian brother! That’s what he was to me—he’ll be even more than that to you.
Philemon was to be thankful that his runaway slave was being returned, yet not as a slave but as an equal, while Onesimus was to be thankful for his possible return to slavery at the hands of his former master.
Now that's where faith and love come into play.
It's hard to give thanks at times.
But, we need to find a way.
To quote Bob Marley;
“Give thanks and praise to the Lord, and it will be all right.”
I really hate bad news.
I should probably rephrase that statement to I really dislike bad news.
I found out this morning that I may have to spend a significant amount of money to repair our septic system.
Of this, I wasn't very thankful.
To be truthful, I was feeling pretty sorry for myself.
I don't want to be giving thanks for this. Inside, I feel like I'm getting a raw deal and want to scream, “Why Me!” “why do these things always happen to me?”
But, God wants us to be thankful for all things, no matter how hard that may seem to be.
And to be honest, I am thankful that I don't have to build an outhouse, or call for a port-a-potty.
At times like this, I think of the word and wonder what comfort I can receive.
4 Every time your name comes up in my prayers, I say, "Oh, thank you, God!"
5 I keep hearing of the love and faith you have for the Master Jesus, which brims over to other Christians.
6 And I keep praying that this faith we hold in common keeps showing up in the good things we do, and that people recognize Christ in all of it.
This should be a goal that we all strive for. To be known for our love and faith that we have.
To be able to handle things that it can be said that we can be truly thankful no matter what the circumstances.
10 While here in jail, I’ve fathered a child, so to speak. And here he is, hand-carrying this letter—Onesimus!
11 He was useless to you before; now he’s useful to both of us.
12 I’m sending him back to you, but it feels like I’m cutting off my right arm in doing so.
13 I wanted in the worst way to keep him here as your stand-in to help out while I’m in jail for the Message.
14 But I didn’t want to do anything behind your back, make you do a good deed that you hadn’t willingly agreed to.
15 Maybe it’s all for the best that you lost him for a while. You’re getting him back now for good—
16 and no mere slave this time, but a true Christian brother! That’s what he was to me—he’ll be even more than that to you.
Philemon was to be thankful that his runaway slave was being returned, yet not as a slave but as an equal, while Onesimus was to be thankful for his possible return to slavery at the hands of his former master.
Now that's where faith and love come into play.
It's hard to give thanks at times.
But, we need to find a way.
To quote Bob Marley;
“Give thanks and praise to the Lord, and it will be all right.”
Saturday, October 10, 2009
LISTEN TO ME!
2 Chronicle 24: 15 – 22
It starts as simple fun usually when we were younger. We play with a “Magic 8 Ball” or a Ouija Board.
Later on it's the daily Horoscope. A friend offers to read your palm, give you a Tarot card reading, then they tell you the latest fad about letting angels guide your life.
People all over are searching for spiritual fulfillment in any way they can.
The only trouble is, we sometimes turn our backs on the one true God and the peace we find there.
17 After the death of Jehoiada, the officials of Judah came and paid homage to the king, and he listened to them.
18 They abandoned the temple of the LORD, the God of their fathers, and worshipped Asherah poles and idols. Because of their guilt, God’s anger came upon Judah and Jerusalem.
19 Although the LORD sent prophets to the people to bring them back to him, and though they testified against them, they would not listen.
It seems to me that this kind of behavior has been going on for a long time. For reasons I really don't understand, why do we abandon the truth for these foolish pursuits. The truth is right there in front of us, and we turn a blind eye.
I guess that it's just easier to bow down to an object where sins can be glossed over and we can tell ourselves that what we get away with is okay because we haven't been caught.
Then, comes one person who sees through the lies of what the entire community has come to believe.
Speaking the truth in love is a hard concept to handle.
Ever have someone tell you the truth in love? Ouch!
20 Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said, "This is what God says: ‘Why do you disobey the LORD’s commands? You will not prosper. Because you have forsaken the LORD, he has forsaken you.’"
21 But they plotted against him, and by order of the king they stoned him to death in the courtyard of the LORD’s temple.
When we try to do this. When we warn the people of their sinful ways. We are shunned, then the entire populace seeks to discredit us or even try to destroy us and our message.
Speaking out to the majority ain't easy folks. It takes some hutzpah to stand on what you believe against the feelings and beliefs of those around you.
But we have to buck the tide. Swim against the flow.
We need to shout, “Listen to me!”
It starts as simple fun usually when we were younger. We play with a “Magic 8 Ball” or a Ouija Board.
Later on it's the daily Horoscope. A friend offers to read your palm, give you a Tarot card reading, then they tell you the latest fad about letting angels guide your life.
People all over are searching for spiritual fulfillment in any way they can.
The only trouble is, we sometimes turn our backs on the one true God and the peace we find there.
17 After the death of Jehoiada, the officials of Judah came and paid homage to the king, and he listened to them.
18 They abandoned the temple of the LORD, the God of their fathers, and worshipped Asherah poles and idols. Because of their guilt, God’s anger came upon Judah and Jerusalem.
19 Although the LORD sent prophets to the people to bring them back to him, and though they testified against them, they would not listen.
It seems to me that this kind of behavior has been going on for a long time. For reasons I really don't understand, why do we abandon the truth for these foolish pursuits. The truth is right there in front of us, and we turn a blind eye.
I guess that it's just easier to bow down to an object where sins can be glossed over and we can tell ourselves that what we get away with is okay because we haven't been caught.
Then, comes one person who sees through the lies of what the entire community has come to believe.
Speaking the truth in love is a hard concept to handle.
Ever have someone tell you the truth in love? Ouch!
20 Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said, "This is what God says: ‘Why do you disobey the LORD’s commands? You will not prosper. Because you have forsaken the LORD, he has forsaken you.’"
21 But they plotted against him, and by order of the king they stoned him to death in the courtyard of the LORD’s temple.
When we try to do this. When we warn the people of their sinful ways. We are shunned, then the entire populace seeks to discredit us or even try to destroy us and our message.
Speaking out to the majority ain't easy folks. It takes some hutzpah to stand on what you believe against the feelings and beliefs of those around you.
But we have to buck the tide. Swim against the flow.
We need to shout, “Listen to me!”
Friday, October 9, 2009
EMOTIONS
John 11: 32 – 44
God, in His wisdom, has given us many gifts. Some we readily accept, others we wish we didn't have to face, and all of them are beyond what we deserve. There are gifts that are easily visible such as possessions and then there are those that are invisible. The peace we feel, the love we have,
humble spirits, and yes our emotions.
There are those among us who try to hide the emotions that were given us. After all, a man is not supposed to cry. Right?
35 Jesus wept.
If Jesus is the example that we are to follow, then why do we try to repress our emotions when He didn't.
38 Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance.
39 "Take away the stone," he said. "But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odour, for he has been there four days."
41 So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me.
42 I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me."
Yeah. We got 'em. All those gifts from God. And, they all serve a purpose to enrich our lives in relationship with Him.
We laugh, we cry, we feel love.
Thank you God for these precious gifts.
God, in His wisdom, has given us many gifts. Some we readily accept, others we wish we didn't have to face, and all of them are beyond what we deserve. There are gifts that are easily visible such as possessions and then there are those that are invisible. The peace we feel, the love we have,
humble spirits, and yes our emotions.
There are those among us who try to hide the emotions that were given us. After all, a man is not supposed to cry. Right?
35 Jesus wept.
If Jesus is the example that we are to follow, then why do we try to repress our emotions when He didn't.
38 Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance.
39 "Take away the stone," he said. "But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odour, for he has been there four days."
41 So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me.
42 I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me."
Yeah. We got 'em. All those gifts from God. And, they all serve a purpose to enrich our lives in relationship with Him.
We laugh, we cry, we feel love.
Thank you God for these precious gifts.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
WISDOM
Proverbs 16: 16 – 22
One of the ways that I prepare to write these teachings is to read the “Our Daily Bread” devotional.
I get the scripture from them read it then see how close my ideas are to theirs.
Today was one of those times that my thoughts are way off from “ODB”.
Throughout the book of Proverbs Solomon pushes the benefits of wisdom. And through wisdom comes understanding. And as “ODB” says today, we all crave understanding and have a need to be understood.
22 Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools.
With this verse in mind, I guess that my conflict with another writer brings me to think that there can be a couple of ways to look at the Word.
I know. That's an obvious statement. All scripture is open to interpretation. So I have come to this conclusion.
16 How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!
17 The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life.
18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
19 Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.
20 Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
21 The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.
22 Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools.
There it is.
What does it mean to you?
One of the ways that I prepare to write these teachings is to read the “Our Daily Bread” devotional.
I get the scripture from them read it then see how close my ideas are to theirs.
Today was one of those times that my thoughts are way off from “ODB”.
Throughout the book of Proverbs Solomon pushes the benefits of wisdom. And through wisdom comes understanding. And as “ODB” says today, we all crave understanding and have a need to be understood.
22 Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools.
With this verse in mind, I guess that my conflict with another writer brings me to think that there can be a couple of ways to look at the Word.
I know. That's an obvious statement. All scripture is open to interpretation. So I have come to this conclusion.
16 How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!
17 The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life.
18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
19 Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.
20 Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
21 The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.
22 Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools.
There it is.
What does it mean to you?
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
BUSY, BUSY
Luke 10: 38 – 42
I'm sure that we have all heard the story of the Christian who complained to anybody that would listen that he were so busy, that he didn't have time to pray. Everything he tried to do in his busy day went wrong. The harder he tried the more things went all pear shaped and he ended up with more work then when he started.
Filled with frustration,he prayed.
He placed his attention on God.
His work immediately started going right and his day became less hectic.
With a change in his heart, he then began to tell anybody that would listen, that he was so busy that he made time to pray.
That's sort of the story of Martha and Mary. Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, while Martha drove herself to exhaustion working and not paying attention to the Lord.
38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him.
39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.
40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"
41 "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things,
42 but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
This whole discussion confirms what a Pastor once told me when he said, “If the devil can't make you bad, he makes you busy.”
And that surprisingly is the key.
When we accept the Lord, we come under attack. Sometimes we are hated by other people and other times the enemy sends troubles our way.
The closer we get to God, the harder he attacks. So, the easiest thing that Satan can do is to take our focus away from our savior.
Be careful not to be distracted.
Spend time with the Lord everyday.
I'm sure that we have all heard the story of the Christian who complained to anybody that would listen that he were so busy, that he didn't have time to pray. Everything he tried to do in his busy day went wrong. The harder he tried the more things went all pear shaped and he ended up with more work then when he started.
Filled with frustration,he prayed.
He placed his attention on God.
His work immediately started going right and his day became less hectic.
With a change in his heart, he then began to tell anybody that would listen, that he was so busy that he made time to pray.
That's sort of the story of Martha and Mary. Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, while Martha drove herself to exhaustion working and not paying attention to the Lord.
38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him.
39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.
40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"
41 "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things,
42 but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
This whole discussion confirms what a Pastor once told me when he said, “If the devil can't make you bad, he makes you busy.”
And that surprisingly is the key.
When we accept the Lord, we come under attack. Sometimes we are hated by other people and other times the enemy sends troubles our way.
The closer we get to God, the harder he attacks. So, the easiest thing that Satan can do is to take our focus away from our savior.
Be careful not to be distracted.
Spend time with the Lord everyday.
Monday, October 5, 2009
WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO DO?
Philippians 1: 19 – 26
In the 50's movie, “The War of the Worlds,” one of the character in the beginning of the movie was a pastor. When the Martians first began to leave their ships to start the invasion, this pastor walked toward the deadly aircraft his only thought was to bring the word, and love of God to the invaders.
While standing in front of an advancing vessel, he held up his Bible and recited the 23'rd Psalm as he was burned into non-existence by the Martian heat ray.
Okay.
I know it's a stretch.
I also know that what I described was an act of fiction.
I used it as an illustration of someone who is willing to sacrifice themselves for their beliefs.
Paul discussed this with the people of Philippi.
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labour for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!
Having this knowledge floating around the back of your mind,the question is,
“Would you be able to sacrifice your life to advance the Gospel?”
It appears to be a win, win situation.
If we live, we have ample time to be in service to our Lord.
If we die, we live in the presence of God for eternity.
23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,
26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
I love Jesus, and look forward to being with Him in eternity. Yet, I love being in His service here on Earth.
In the song, “Give me just a little more time” Marty Stuart sings,
“I'm ready for you to call me.”
“But give me just a little more time.”
Thar's a good philosophy. Ready to go, yet loving being in God's service.
Are you willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for your fellow man, of to advance the word of God?
In the 50's movie, “The War of the Worlds,” one of the character in the beginning of the movie was a pastor. When the Martians first began to leave their ships to start the invasion, this pastor walked toward the deadly aircraft his only thought was to bring the word, and love of God to the invaders.
While standing in front of an advancing vessel, he held up his Bible and recited the 23'rd Psalm as he was burned into non-existence by the Martian heat ray.
Okay.
I know it's a stretch.
I also know that what I described was an act of fiction.
I used it as an illustration of someone who is willing to sacrifice themselves for their beliefs.
Paul discussed this with the people of Philippi.
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labour for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!
Having this knowledge floating around the back of your mind,the question is,
“Would you be able to sacrifice your life to advance the Gospel?”
It appears to be a win, win situation.
If we live, we have ample time to be in service to our Lord.
If we die, we live in the presence of God for eternity.
23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,
26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
I love Jesus, and look forward to being with Him in eternity. Yet, I love being in His service here on Earth.
In the song, “Give me just a little more time” Marty Stuart sings,
“I'm ready for you to call me.”
“But give me just a little more time.”
Thar's a good philosophy. Ready to go, yet loving being in God's service.
Are you willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for your fellow man, of to advance the word of God?
Saturday, October 3, 2009
CULT OF PERSONALITY
1 Corinthians 2
Before coming to know the Lord, there were many of us who could be led astray by some fast talking huckster with a message of peace and love. (usually for profit)
For reasons that I can't quite explain, it seems that the more complicated the path to Nirvana is, no matter how complex the hierarchy, we think that because of these trials then this must be the true way of God.
Because of these complicated ideas of spiritual fulfillment, we can bring that attitude with us into our relationship with the Father. That is until we come to understand that faith in God is not a matter of doing, it is a matter of done.
Huh?
It really is simple. There is no trial or test to go through.
1 When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God.
2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.
4 My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power,
5 so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.
12 We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.
13 This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.
14 The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.
I came to know the Lord when I got sober and began to hear of the concept of a “higher power.”
This was a generic spirituality kind of like reading the horoscopes in the newspaper.
But, there was a simple trial that seemed to be needed to attain the serenity promised in the twelve steps,
“Let go.” “And, let God.”
Just vague enough to tempt us and put us on the path to Nirvana.
But, it was the concept of “letting” God provide my salvation rather than having to work it out or go through yet another test, that led the way for my being born again.
PRAISE GOD.
Before coming to know the Lord, there were many of us who could be led astray by some fast talking huckster with a message of peace and love. (usually for profit)
For reasons that I can't quite explain, it seems that the more complicated the path to Nirvana is, no matter how complex the hierarchy, we think that because of these trials then this must be the true way of God.
Because of these complicated ideas of spiritual fulfillment, we can bring that attitude with us into our relationship with the Father. That is until we come to understand that faith in God is not a matter of doing, it is a matter of done.
Huh?
It really is simple. There is no trial or test to go through.
1 When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God.
2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.
4 My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power,
5 so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.
12 We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.
13 This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.
14 The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.
I came to know the Lord when I got sober and began to hear of the concept of a “higher power.”
This was a generic spirituality kind of like reading the horoscopes in the newspaper.
But, there was a simple trial that seemed to be needed to attain the serenity promised in the twelve steps,
“Let go.” “And, let God.”
Just vague enough to tempt us and put us on the path to Nirvana.
But, it was the concept of “letting” God provide my salvation rather than having to work it out or go through yet another test, that led the way for my being born again.
PRAISE GOD.
Friday, October 2, 2009
HE PUT MY FEET ON SOLID ROCK
Ephesians 5: 15 – 21
The first time I read Psalm 40, I almost fell over. The whole image of God taking me from the deepest dirtiest pit and putting my feet on solid ground and putting on my lips a new song.
Hokey Smokes!
I thought, that's how my life changed.
That's what made a difference to me.
Now every time I read that Psalm, or hear it read, I am brought to a place where I am filled with the love of God.
I see the world, and treat people just a little bit differently then I did before being reminded of His presence in my life. I guess that when I look at it that way, I really shouldn't treat people any differently before or after thinking of God. I should be consistent with my relationships at all times.
We have to allow God's will to done.
We must live consistently through his power.
15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise,
16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
When I think about the old days, and we all have them, I look at how foolish I was, and then I can see how differently I am today, all because of God being in my life.
Non of us can live as we once did when this has happened.
We are changed.
We see, do, and live differently than we used to.
18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord,
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In a nutshell, be cause of Christ, we become filled with the Spirit, not spirits.
Living for him is better than living for me.
After all, He wasn't thinking selfishly when He gave His life for me.
And, it's the same for you.
I don't know if I really hit it with this one folks.
I feel as if I am scattered all over the place with my thoughts.
Sometimes it is hard for me to put the way I feel into written words.
I pray that this teaching touched you, and helped in your walk.
The first time I read Psalm 40, I almost fell over. The whole image of God taking me from the deepest dirtiest pit and putting my feet on solid ground and putting on my lips a new song.
Hokey Smokes!
I thought, that's how my life changed.
That's what made a difference to me.
Now every time I read that Psalm, or hear it read, I am brought to a place where I am filled with the love of God.
I see the world, and treat people just a little bit differently then I did before being reminded of His presence in my life. I guess that when I look at it that way, I really shouldn't treat people any differently before or after thinking of God. I should be consistent with my relationships at all times.
We have to allow God's will to done.
We must live consistently through his power.
15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise,
16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
When I think about the old days, and we all have them, I look at how foolish I was, and then I can see how differently I am today, all because of God being in my life.
Non of us can live as we once did when this has happened.
We are changed.
We see, do, and live differently than we used to.
18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord,
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In a nutshell, be cause of Christ, we become filled with the Spirit, not spirits.
Living for him is better than living for me.
After all, He wasn't thinking selfishly when He gave His life for me.
And, it's the same for you.
I don't know if I really hit it with this one folks.
I feel as if I am scattered all over the place with my thoughts.
Sometimes it is hard for me to put the way I feel into written words.
I pray that this teaching touched you, and helped in your walk.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
HUBBA, HUBBA, HUBBA, WHO DO YOU TRUST?
Mathew 7: 7 – 11
There is a scene in the Batman movie with Jack Nicholson, where he appears as Joker on TV and asks the people of Gotham city the above question,who do you trust?
He knows before the question was asked, the character of the people in that city.
Joker was betting that the people would act greedily and therefore he would be able to exploit them to his advantage.
Since the beginning, that has been the issue. Should Eve trust what God said, or the words of the Serpent?
How about Noah? Should he have listened to the mocking of his neighbors?
On and on it goes. Great heroes of the Bible constantly come up against trusting the Lord, or following what others have said, or even trusting themselves above the will of God.
It went on then. It goes on today. It will continue to happen tomorrow.
I think that is why Jesus, in the book of Mathew and the other gospels, taught about trusting God.
He was betting not on the greed of the people, but on the basic reasonable way we treat the ones we love.
That is something we all can relate too.
7 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
8 For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
9 "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?
10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?
11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
When confronted with the question who do you trust, where will you place your faith?
Are we gonna be people who follow what Joker wants, or listen to the teaching of Jesus?
HUBBA, HUBBA, HUBBA.
There is a scene in the Batman movie with Jack Nicholson, where he appears as Joker on TV and asks the people of Gotham city the above question,who do you trust?
He knows before the question was asked, the character of the people in that city.
Joker was betting that the people would act greedily and therefore he would be able to exploit them to his advantage.
Since the beginning, that has been the issue. Should Eve trust what God said, or the words of the Serpent?
How about Noah? Should he have listened to the mocking of his neighbors?
On and on it goes. Great heroes of the Bible constantly come up against trusting the Lord, or following what others have said, or even trusting themselves above the will of God.
It went on then. It goes on today. It will continue to happen tomorrow.
I think that is why Jesus, in the book of Mathew and the other gospels, taught about trusting God.
He was betting not on the greed of the people, but on the basic reasonable way we treat the ones we love.
That is something we all can relate too.
7 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
8 For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
9 "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?
10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?
11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
When confronted with the question who do you trust, where will you place your faith?
Are we gonna be people who follow what Joker wants, or listen to the teaching of Jesus?
HUBBA, HUBBA, HUBBA.
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