Have you ever had one of those times when you were just miserably weary? Sometimes after a long, hard day my wife says to me, “I just want to crawl up inside of you.” It’s comforting, as a husband, to know that I can be that type of refuge for my wife. When you are weary, who do you turn to for comfort? Where do you turn for shelter? You may have a spouse who can comfort you or you may have a close friend who will lend a listening ear to hear your troubles. But when it all comes down to it, we all have a best friend, beloved Father and constant companion who is always ready to provide the emotional support that we need. Psalm 5:11 says, “But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them shout for joy forever. May you shelter them and may those who love Your name boast about You.”
When you struggle or worry or fret, slow down and look to Him. Our Abba Father is always there
waiting for us to crawl up into His lap and feel the warmth of His heart. There you will find the kind of rest and comfort that only He can give.
Take refuge in our Abba Father's love for you.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
Gardening
It was a beautiful Saturday morning and I set about the chore that had been recently ignored. In preparation for spring, the garden had been worked. The soil turned and all of those pesky weeds removed. What I had hoped would be beautiful flowers had been added, but the preparation had not been completed. On this Saturday morning, three weeks after planting the flowers, the chore was to remove all the weeds that had reappeared so quickly.
Today’s task included meticulously pulling each and every weed found in the garden in hopes they would not be returning any time soon. Following the removal of all weeds, I laid down a soaker hose so that the plants could be watered on a regular basis thus helping them flourish. After the hose, the garden was treated with Preen (a pre-emulsion agent to prevent the seeds of new weeds from germinating and growing in the garden). Finally, after all the other chores were complete, it was time to add mulch as a covering to the garden helping keep the moisture in and all of the other bad stuff out.
When I was done with my work God began showing me how it resembled my life. The freshly turned soil ready for new plants was actually me as a believer and the flowers that were planted were lessons learned through my walk with Christ that were now appearing as fruits of the spirit in my life (Galatians 5:22). The soaker hose represents fellowshipping with other believers (Acts 2:42) and attending church regularly to be fed from the pulpit and in group study. The Preen represents personal discipleship and study so that we can grow in our personal walk of abiding in the Savior (John 3:36). Finally, the mulch represents the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17).
At last, I thought I was done and the garden was ready for the year. Then, a couple of days later, I noticed it. A single weed was poking its head through the mulch. It was a type of grass that had been prolific in the previous batch of weeds I had removed from the garden. I reached down to pull it out and it simply broke off in my hand. I pushed back some of the mulch to discover that the grass had started spreading its leaves under the mulch and required more effort than just a simple pluck to remove. I knew that if I didn’t get the whole plant and remove it from the roots, it would eventually take over my garden again.
That’s when God brought out the rest of the lesson. The weeds I thought I had so meticulously removed represented sin in our lives. We may do a massive overhaul and clean up obvious areas of our lives, but even when we have the full armor of God on, we are still sinful beings and sin can reappear in our lives. Sometimes, it will grow under the surface and attempt to take a foothold (i.e. thoughts) before we ever see it. And the worst part is, if we don’t deal with the sin and do our best, with God’s help, to remove the sin, it will ultimately take over lives.
Is your garden ready? Are you displaying the fruits of the spirit in your life? Are you consistently fellowshipping with other believers and being fed through the teaching you receive at church? Are you growing through personal study? Are you facing each new day by putting on the full armor of God? Are you on the lookout for sin in your life that you need to address?
Take refuge, regardless of what the activity is that needs addressing in your life, remember that we have the Holy Spirit to provide direction, a blessed Savior who paid the price for all of our needs and a loving Father who is always seeking us out to renew our relationship with Him.
Today’s task included meticulously pulling each and every weed found in the garden in hopes they would not be returning any time soon. Following the removal of all weeds, I laid down a soaker hose so that the plants could be watered on a regular basis thus helping them flourish. After the hose, the garden was treated with Preen (a pre-emulsion agent to prevent the seeds of new weeds from germinating and growing in the garden). Finally, after all the other chores were complete, it was time to add mulch as a covering to the garden helping keep the moisture in and all of the other bad stuff out.
When I was done with my work God began showing me how it resembled my life. The freshly turned soil ready for new plants was actually me as a believer and the flowers that were planted were lessons learned through my walk with Christ that were now appearing as fruits of the spirit in my life (Galatians 5:22). The soaker hose represents fellowshipping with other believers (Acts 2:42) and attending church regularly to be fed from the pulpit and in group study. The Preen represents personal discipleship and study so that we can grow in our personal walk of abiding in the Savior (John 3:36). Finally, the mulch represents the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17).
At last, I thought I was done and the garden was ready for the year. Then, a couple of days later, I noticed it. A single weed was poking its head through the mulch. It was a type of grass that had been prolific in the previous batch of weeds I had removed from the garden. I reached down to pull it out and it simply broke off in my hand. I pushed back some of the mulch to discover that the grass had started spreading its leaves under the mulch and required more effort than just a simple pluck to remove. I knew that if I didn’t get the whole plant and remove it from the roots, it would eventually take over my garden again.
That’s when God brought out the rest of the lesson. The weeds I thought I had so meticulously removed represented sin in our lives. We may do a massive overhaul and clean up obvious areas of our lives, but even when we have the full armor of God on, we are still sinful beings and sin can reappear in our lives. Sometimes, it will grow under the surface and attempt to take a foothold (i.e. thoughts) before we ever see it. And the worst part is, if we don’t deal with the sin and do our best, with God’s help, to remove the sin, it will ultimately take over lives.
Is your garden ready? Are you displaying the fruits of the spirit in your life? Are you consistently fellowshipping with other believers and being fed through the teaching you receive at church? Are you growing through personal study? Are you facing each new day by putting on the full armor of God? Are you on the lookout for sin in your life that you need to address?
Take refuge, regardless of what the activity is that needs addressing in your life, remember that we have the Holy Spirit to provide direction, a blessed Savior who paid the price for all of our needs and a loving Father who is always seeking us out to renew our relationship with Him.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Matthew 5 - Those Who Hunger and Thirst For Righteousness
Matthew 5:6 (HCSB) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, because they will be filled.
Have you ever had a craving that you just couldn't get enough of? For me, it is any kind of sweet or carb. I am a professed "Carb-aholic." Show me a sweet or pasta and I'm there and ready to consume as much as you will give me. Of course, my doctor is not happy about this attitude and is always telling me to watch what I eat. As a diabetic, I must listen or suffer very unpleasant consequences. But, even when I am "being good" and only eating what I should or at least only eating what I shouldn't in small quantities, that doesn't change the desire for sweets or carbs.
God's righteousness should be the same for all believers. This beatitude is all about those who just can get enough of God. They know first hand the impact that He can have in their lives and they are so consumed with the desire for more of it that they literally "hunger and thirst" for it.
When those seasons arise that we all seem to face from time to time where we aren't as close to God as we should be, the longing for God's righteousness doesn't cease. Just like my desire for sweet things, those who "hunger and thirst for righteousness" always have a longing for more, even if they are not pursuing it as they should in their day-to-day walk.
And, when they are hungering, God promises that they will be filled. Since the longing never stops, the filling will be one of abundance, overflowing all of our possible expectations. God wants to bless us with an abundant life. But, we have to want it. We NEED to long for it.
Take Refuge, if your truly long for and hunger for God's righteousness, His blessings will be better than you can ever imagine.
Have you ever had a craving that you just couldn't get enough of? For me, it is any kind of sweet or carb. I am a professed "Carb-aholic." Show me a sweet or pasta and I'm there and ready to consume as much as you will give me. Of course, my doctor is not happy about this attitude and is always telling me to watch what I eat. As a diabetic, I must listen or suffer very unpleasant consequences. But, even when I am "being good" and only eating what I should or at least only eating what I shouldn't in small quantities, that doesn't change the desire for sweets or carbs.
God's righteousness should be the same for all believers. This beatitude is all about those who just can get enough of God. They know first hand the impact that He can have in their lives and they are so consumed with the desire for more of it that they literally "hunger and thirst" for it.
When those seasons arise that we all seem to face from time to time where we aren't as close to God as we should be, the longing for God's righteousness doesn't cease. Just like my desire for sweet things, those who "hunger and thirst for righteousness" always have a longing for more, even if they are not pursuing it as they should in their day-to-day walk.
And, when they are hungering, God promises that they will be filled. Since the longing never stops, the filling will be one of abundance, overflowing all of our possible expectations. God wants to bless us with an abundant life. But, we have to want it. We NEED to long for it.
Take Refuge, if your truly long for and hunger for God's righteousness, His blessings will be better than you can ever imagine.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Matthew 5 - The gentle
Matthew 5:5 (HCBS) Blessed are the gentle, because they will inherit the earth.
I was raised to view "meekness" more as the sign of weakness rather than a blessing. A gentle or meek man was someone who would not stand up for himself. Someone who would cower away from a fight. Someone who might have been described as a "patsy." But yet, this is one of those many occasions where what man means for bad, God means for good.
This character trait of gentleness is also attributed to Jesus himself. In Matthew 21, Jesus sends two disciples to get a donkey and her colt so that the prophesy of Zechariah 9:9 would be fulfilled.
Zechariah 9:9 (HCSB)
Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion!
Shout in triumph, Daughter Jerusalem!
See, your King is coming to you;
He is righteous and victorious,
humble and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
In Matthew 21:5, the King is described as gentle, but the original Hebrew translation of humble really gets to the root of the kind of character that Jesus is blessing in this beatitude. The gentle or meek person described here is one who is truly humble before others, content with who they are and accepting of God's provision on their behalf. In modern terms, the gentle ones love to F.R.O.G. (Fully Rely On God).
As a result of this character trait, Jesus says they will inherit the earth. As described in The Message, Matthew 5:5b, "That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought." Those who are content and humble realize they already have much more than those who are pursuing money and things for the accumulation of wealth.
Take refuge in your gentleness or meekness. Your humility before God will be rewarded.
I was raised to view "meekness" more as the sign of weakness rather than a blessing. A gentle or meek man was someone who would not stand up for himself. Someone who would cower away from a fight. Someone who might have been described as a "patsy." But yet, this is one of those many occasions where what man means for bad, God means for good.
This character trait of gentleness is also attributed to Jesus himself. In Matthew 21, Jesus sends two disciples to get a donkey and her colt so that the prophesy of Zechariah 9:9 would be fulfilled.
Zechariah 9:9 (HCSB)
Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion!
Shout in triumph, Daughter Jerusalem!
See, your King is coming to you;
He is righteous and victorious,
humble and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
In Matthew 21:5, the King is described as gentle, but the original Hebrew translation of humble really gets to the root of the kind of character that Jesus is blessing in this beatitude. The gentle or meek person described here is one who is truly humble before others, content with who they are and accepting of God's provision on their behalf. In modern terms, the gentle ones love to F.R.O.G. (Fully Rely On God).
As a result of this character trait, Jesus says they will inherit the earth. As described in The Message, Matthew 5:5b, "That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought." Those who are content and humble realize they already have much more than those who are pursuing money and things for the accumulation of wealth.
Take refuge in your gentleness or meekness. Your humility before God will be rewarded.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Matthew 5 - Those Who Mourn
Matthew 5:4 (HCSB) "Blessed are those who mourn, because they will be comforted."
The key to understanding this beatitude is consider what the mourner is mourning. A clearer understanding is found in The Message, "You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you."
I know that almost all of us have experienced the loss of someone special in our lives. The sorrow and what some might describe as devastation that we feel as a result of the loss can be insurmountable at times. You feel a heavy weight and a dark cloud that you don't think will ever disappear.
Have you ever been unjustly accused? The loss of "what is most dear" may be your reputation that is blemished by someone else's accusations that just simply are not true. If the accuser is someone that you love, then the loss is doubled resulting in sorrowful mourning.
However, what if in the light of such situations, you choose not to mourn but rather to be angry and shake your fist at God saying, "How dare you? Why would you do this to me?" When tragedy is accompanied with anger, bitterness is the natural result. And bitterness leads to broken relationships with others and with your Heavenly Father. Remember, whatever your tragedy, God didn't cause it to happen just to punish you for something in your life. Our response to tragedy is a reflection of our spirit and trust in a loving Father.
When we mourn a loss, we also allow ourselves to be comforted both physically and spiritually. The Greek word for comfort is parakaleo which is also translated as encouraged or exhorted. Our Heavenly Father wants to comfort and encourage and exhort us when we are mourning and broken in our spirit. In our weakness, He is strong. But when we choose to act "strong" showing a "stiff upper lip" to those who are closest to us or choosing anger over sorrow, we are also rejecting God's love for us.
Your attitude in your tragedy or distress will determine the spiritual outcome of your mourning. 2 Corinthians 7:10 (The Message), "Distress that drives us to God does that. It turns us around. It gets us back in the way of salvation. We never regret that kind of pain. But those who let distress drive them away from God are full of regrets, end up on a deathbed of regrets."
Take refuge in your mourning. God wants to comfort you and shower His love on you. It is your choice whether you allow Him to do that for you.
The key to understanding this beatitude is consider what the mourner is mourning. A clearer understanding is found in The Message, "You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you."
I know that almost all of us have experienced the loss of someone special in our lives. The sorrow and what some might describe as devastation that we feel as a result of the loss can be insurmountable at times. You feel a heavy weight and a dark cloud that you don't think will ever disappear.
Have you ever been unjustly accused? The loss of "what is most dear" may be your reputation that is blemished by someone else's accusations that just simply are not true. If the accuser is someone that you love, then the loss is doubled resulting in sorrowful mourning.
However, what if in the light of such situations, you choose not to mourn but rather to be angry and shake your fist at God saying, "How dare you? Why would you do this to me?" When tragedy is accompanied with anger, bitterness is the natural result. And bitterness leads to broken relationships with others and with your Heavenly Father. Remember, whatever your tragedy, God didn't cause it to happen just to punish you for something in your life. Our response to tragedy is a reflection of our spirit and trust in a loving Father.
When we mourn a loss, we also allow ourselves to be comforted both physically and spiritually. The Greek word for comfort is parakaleo which is also translated as encouraged or exhorted. Our Heavenly Father wants to comfort and encourage and exhort us when we are mourning and broken in our spirit. In our weakness, He is strong. But when we choose to act "strong" showing a "stiff upper lip" to those who are closest to us or choosing anger over sorrow, we are also rejecting God's love for us.
Your attitude in your tragedy or distress will determine the spiritual outcome of your mourning. 2 Corinthians 7:10 (The Message), "Distress that drives us to God does that. It turns us around. It gets us back in the way of salvation. We never regret that kind of pain. But those who let distress drive them away from God are full of regrets, end up on a deathbed of regrets."
Take refuge in your mourning. God wants to comfort you and shower His love on you. It is your choice whether you allow Him to do that for you.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Matthew 5 - Poor in Spirit
Matthew 5:3 (HCSB) "Blessed are the poor in spirit, because the kingdom of heaven is theirs."
Poor in spirit. That's a phrase the philosophers and theologians alike have pondered over the ages. You will find it described in many ways, but almost always as a concept of seeing yourself as a lowly being in the face of a Holy God. Proverbs 16:19 (HCSB) says, "Better to be lowly of spirit with the humble than to divide plunder with the proud."
Jesus describes Himself as "gentle and humble in heart" in Matthew 11:29. In Isaiah 66:2, God is saying, "I will look favorably on this kind of person: one who is humble, submissive in spirit, and who trembles at My word." Here the word submissive can also be translated as broken.
Luke 18,9-14 (HCSB), He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and looked down on everyone else: "Two men went up to the temple complex to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee took his stand and was praying like this: 'God, I thank You that I'm not like other people —greedy, unrighteous, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of everything I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even raise his eyes to heaven but kept striking his chest and saying, 'God, turn Your wrath from me —a sinner!' I tell you, this one went down to his house justified rather than the other; because everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
What is your spirit like? Are you the one who is thankful they are not like others who you see as lower than you or are you like the tax collector acknowledging that you are a sinner deserving of God's wrath? Like is so often true, God chooses to bless those who feel unworthy. Being truly poor in spirit is submitting yourself wholly to a just and righteous God expecting the punishment we deserve.
Take refuge, when we submit ourselves to God, understanding that we deserve punishment for our sinful nature, then God can bless us out of His mercy and love. Remember, as long as we are looking for the blessing that we think we deserve, we are not "poor in spirit".
Poor in spirit. That's a phrase the philosophers and theologians alike have pondered over the ages. You will find it described in many ways, but almost always as a concept of seeing yourself as a lowly being in the face of a Holy God. Proverbs 16:19 (HCSB) says, "Better to be lowly of spirit with the humble than to divide plunder with the proud."
Jesus describes Himself as "gentle and humble in heart" in Matthew 11:29. In Isaiah 66:2, God is saying, "I will look favorably on this kind of person: one who is humble, submissive in spirit, and who trembles at My word." Here the word submissive can also be translated as broken.
Luke 18,9-14 (HCSB), He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and looked down on everyone else: "Two men went up to the temple complex to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee took his stand and was praying like this: 'God, I thank You that I'm not like other people —greedy, unrighteous, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of everything I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even raise his eyes to heaven but kept striking his chest and saying, 'God, turn Your wrath from me —a sinner!' I tell you, this one went down to his house justified rather than the other; because everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
What is your spirit like? Are you the one who is thankful they are not like others who you see as lower than you or are you like the tax collector acknowledging that you are a sinner deserving of God's wrath? Like is so often true, God chooses to bless those who feel unworthy. Being truly poor in spirit is submitting yourself wholly to a just and righteous God expecting the punishment we deserve.
Take refuge, when we submit ourselves to God, understanding that we deserve punishment for our sinful nature, then God can bless us out of His mercy and love. Remember, as long as we are looking for the blessing that we think we deserve, we are not "poor in spirit".
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Matthew 4 - He called, they followed.
Matthew 4:18-22 (HCSB) "As He was walking along the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon, who was called Peter, and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea, since they were fishermen. "Follow Me," He told them, "and I will make you fish for people!" Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and He called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him."
When Jesus called the disciples, they didn't hesitate or delay. They followed him immediately. As Matthew 4:20 says in The Message, "They didn't ask questions, but simply dropped their nets and followed." There was immediate obedience.
I've often wondered why this was. Peter and Andrew may have heard of Jesus by this time, but they didn't even ask, "Why me?" They just dropped everything and left. The same was true with James and John even leaving their father in the boat along with the nets they were mending. They could have said, "We'll follow you, but let us finish mending these nets first." But instead, "they were just as quick to follow, abandoning boat and father." (Matthew 4:22 - The Message).
What do you do when Jesus calls you? For me, it was to run in the other direction. I was afraid of what it would "cost" me. Would I have to be a "Jesus freak?" What would it feel like for people to tell me they didn't want to hear about the God that I was following. And, consider the financial cost. Most pastors are not financially "well off." No, the cost for me was too great, so I ran -- until now.
God has been patient with me and continued to pursue me until finally, I have surrendered to His call on my life to do whatever He asks. I don't yet know what that is or what the "cost" will be, but like the disciples, I need to stop asking questions and simply follow.
In retrospect, I think Peter and the others were glad they did. They got to spend 3 years learning at the feet of the Son of God! They got to see first hand the miracles that he was performing and hear from Him how to live an abundant life.
Take refuge, my friend, when God calls it is worth it to answer without hesitation. And, even if you delay, He will still pursue you because He has a perfect plan for you and He wants the very best for you. Give your life and your will to Him. You can trust Him, He won't lead you astray.
When Jesus called the disciples, they didn't hesitate or delay. They followed him immediately. As Matthew 4:20 says in The Message, "They didn't ask questions, but simply dropped their nets and followed." There was immediate obedience.
I've often wondered why this was. Peter and Andrew may have heard of Jesus by this time, but they didn't even ask, "Why me?" They just dropped everything and left. The same was true with James and John even leaving their father in the boat along with the nets they were mending. They could have said, "We'll follow you, but let us finish mending these nets first." But instead, "they were just as quick to follow, abandoning boat and father." (Matthew 4:22 - The Message).
What do you do when Jesus calls you? For me, it was to run in the other direction. I was afraid of what it would "cost" me. Would I have to be a "Jesus freak?" What would it feel like for people to tell me they didn't want to hear about the God that I was following. And, consider the financial cost. Most pastors are not financially "well off." No, the cost for me was too great, so I ran -- until now.
God has been patient with me and continued to pursue me until finally, I have surrendered to His call on my life to do whatever He asks. I don't yet know what that is or what the "cost" will be, but like the disciples, I need to stop asking questions and simply follow.
In retrospect, I think Peter and the others were glad they did. They got to spend 3 years learning at the feet of the Son of God! They got to see first hand the miracles that he was performing and hear from Him how to live an abundant life.
Take refuge, my friend, when God calls it is worth it to answer without hesitation. And, even if you delay, He will still pursue you because He has a perfect plan for you and He wants the very best for you. Give your life and your will to Him. You can trust Him, He won't lead you astray.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Matthew 3 - Prepare the Way
Matthew 3:1-3 (HCSB) In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Wilderness of Judea and saying, "Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near!" For he is the one spoken of through the prophet Isaiah, who said: A voice of one crying out in the wilderness: "Prepare the way for the Lord; make His paths straight!"
Matthew 3:13-15 (HCSB) Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. But John tried to stop Him, saying, "I need to be baptized by You, and yet You come to me?" Jesus answered him, "Allow it for now, because this is the way for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he allowed Him to be baptized.
As a parent, one of the first things you think about when you have a child (usually even before the child is born), "How am I going to provide for them?" Our love for our children drives us to be concerned about both little and big things in their lives. Do we have enough food? Does he/she have enough clothes? Are they warm or cold? What will their personality be like? Will I be a good parent for them? What will they want to be when they grow up? Will they go to college? How will I pay for college? And the list goes on and on. Having a child drives a parent to want to prepare a way for them in this world.
That's what God did before the birth of Jesus. God sent a messenger ahead of Jesus just as he had sent prophets before. Over the generations from Abraham until the time of Jesus life on earth, God was telling his children that He is providing a way. From the time of Adam, He has been preparing a way.
Then, when Jesus came to John for baptism, he was also preparing the way for us as believers. He provided a visible, outward example of surrendering yourself and your desires to accept the plans and desires of God in your life. This was the beginning of His ministry and it was important that he demonstrate His submission to God as the author of His ministry.
Take Refuge, God has prepared a way for you. Now it's up to you whether you will follow it.
Matthew 3:13-15 (HCSB) Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. But John tried to stop Him, saying, "I need to be baptized by You, and yet You come to me?" Jesus answered him, "Allow it for now, because this is the way for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he allowed Him to be baptized.
As a parent, one of the first things you think about when you have a child (usually even before the child is born), "How am I going to provide for them?" Our love for our children drives us to be concerned about both little and big things in their lives. Do we have enough food? Does he/she have enough clothes? Are they warm or cold? What will their personality be like? Will I be a good parent for them? What will they want to be when they grow up? Will they go to college? How will I pay for college? And the list goes on and on. Having a child drives a parent to want to prepare a way for them in this world.
That's what God did before the birth of Jesus. God sent a messenger ahead of Jesus just as he had sent prophets before. Over the generations from Abraham until the time of Jesus life on earth, God was telling his children that He is providing a way. From the time of Adam, He has been preparing a way.
Then, when Jesus came to John for baptism, he was also preparing the way for us as believers. He provided a visible, outward example of surrendering yourself and your desires to accept the plans and desires of God in your life. This was the beginning of His ministry and it was important that he demonstrate His submission to God as the author of His ministry.
Take Refuge, God has prepared a way for you. Now it's up to you whether you will follow it.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Matthew 2 - They Saw a Star
Matthew continues telling us of the prophecies fulfilled during the early years of Christ's life here on earth. Of course, as we saw in Matthew 1, the prophecies about his lineage were clearly fulfilled and now in chapter 2 we see Matthew continuing to document the prophecies of his early childhood that were fulfilled: the location of His birth (2:6); God calling His son out of Egypt (2:15); the death of the Hebrew children as Herod tried to kill the "King of the Jews" (2:18); and that he would be called a Nazarene (2:23).
As I read through this and studied the verses, I realized that my image of the wise men and their journey was incorrect. I've always heard the story that they followed the star when actually they saw the star and then from the prophecy knew where to go (Matt 2:2 and 2:6). When they had completed their journey and sought news from Herod as to the whereabouts of the child, he didn't know what they were talking about. So they continued to Bethlehem as the prophecy foretold. Then, when they returned to the directions provided, they saw the star again leading them to where Jesus was and they rejoiced (Matt 2:9).
Matthew Henry writes in great detail about the idolatry of the eastern religions and how God used a star to speak to them in a manner that they would understand and be drawn to Him. "Thus the stars that had been misused came to be put to the right use, to lead men to Christ; the gods of the heathen became his servants."
What I see here that draws me in is that God called even the godless to come to Bethlehem and worship the Messiah. He called them in a manner that they would understand and He provided them with direction (Micah 5:2 which Matthew quotes in 2:6). Imagine a 2-year journey with camels and horses or mules. Think of all the events that probably occurred that could have easily caused the Magi to turn around and go home. I can only imagine all the things that Satan would have wanted to do to stop their arrival and their heralding of Christ as the King of the Jews. Yet, they came. God made sure of that.
What is your star? How has God called you in a way that you would uniquely understand? Remember, when He called the Magi, He knew it would take them a long time to get where they were going. And, He knew He would have to protect them and ensure they actually got there. He is ready to do the same thing for you.
Take Refuge, God sends "stars" for all of us. We just have to be ready to follow them.
As I read through this and studied the verses, I realized that my image of the wise men and their journey was incorrect. I've always heard the story that they followed the star when actually they saw the star and then from the prophecy knew where to go (Matt 2:2 and 2:6). When they had completed their journey and sought news from Herod as to the whereabouts of the child, he didn't know what they were talking about. So they continued to Bethlehem as the prophecy foretold. Then, when they returned to the directions provided, they saw the star again leading them to where Jesus was and they rejoiced (Matt 2:9).
Matthew Henry writes in great detail about the idolatry of the eastern religions and how God used a star to speak to them in a manner that they would understand and be drawn to Him. "Thus the stars that had been misused came to be put to the right use, to lead men to Christ; the gods of the heathen became his servants."
What I see here that draws me in is that God called even the godless to come to Bethlehem and worship the Messiah. He called them in a manner that they would understand and He provided them with direction (Micah 5:2 which Matthew quotes in 2:6). Imagine a 2-year journey with camels and horses or mules. Think of all the events that probably occurred that could have easily caused the Magi to turn around and go home. I can only imagine all the things that Satan would have wanted to do to stop their arrival and their heralding of Christ as the King of the Jews. Yet, they came. God made sure of that.
What is your star? How has God called you in a way that you would uniquely understand? Remember, when He called the Magi, He knew it would take them a long time to get where they were going. And, He knew He would have to protect them and ensure they actually got there. He is ready to do the same thing for you.
Take Refuge, God sends "stars" for all of us. We just have to be ready to follow them.
Matthew 1 - God Had a Plan
As I start a new adventure with this blog, the men in my church are starting a new 30-day challenge. This time, it is the book of Matthew. As I read Matthew, it is helpful to keep in mind that Matthew specifically wrote his gospel to the Jews. Many of the passages relate events and perspectives that are of particular interest to the Jewish culture. This is true in Matthew 1:1-16.
Many call this the "begats" as Matthew documents the generations from Abraham to Joseph. From a Jewish perspective, this is particularly important because the male role in the culture is predominant. As I read through the lineage; however, I see a plan unfolding.
Listed in the genealogy are Tamar (the daughter-in-law of Judah who seduced him and bore his child), Rahab (the harlot who helped the Hebrews when they came to Jericho), Ruth (the Moabite woman who followed Naomi back to Bethlehem) and Bathsheba (the woman David took from Uriah by having him killed). Matthew brings out in particular the names of four women in a genealogy that is focused on the lineage of the men. Two women who were not even Jews and two who were adulteresses.
In keeping with God's promise to both Abraham and David, the Messiah was descended from both of them. Also included in this section is the time or exile to Babylon when the nation of Israel was being punished for their unfaithfulness to God. But, again as prophesied, the nation returned to Jerusalem and the lineage continued.
Matthew documented 14 generations from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the exile and 14 from the exile to Jesus the Christ. Through 42 generations, God continued to work His plan. Through good kings and bad kings, through good men and women and through bad men and women, generation after generation God had a plan. He knew long before Abraham was born what this plan would be and when he promised to Abraham that the whole world would be blessed through his seed (Gen 12:3 and Gen 22:18), He knew how that plan would unfold.
As Paul writes, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Gal 3:28 - HCSB). Jesus came for all of us regardless of background, race or creed. As Matthew Henry writes, "We ought not to upbraid people with the scandals of their ancestors; it is what they cannot help, and has been the lot of the best, even of our Master himself."
Take Refuge, my friend. God has a plan. He has always had a plan and He will continue to execute that plan until the day that Christ returns.
Many call this the "begats" as Matthew documents the generations from Abraham to Joseph. From a Jewish perspective, this is particularly important because the male role in the culture is predominant. As I read through the lineage; however, I see a plan unfolding.
Listed in the genealogy are Tamar (the daughter-in-law of Judah who seduced him and bore his child), Rahab (the harlot who helped the Hebrews when they came to Jericho), Ruth (the Moabite woman who followed Naomi back to Bethlehem) and Bathsheba (the woman David took from Uriah by having him killed). Matthew brings out in particular the names of four women in a genealogy that is focused on the lineage of the men. Two women who were not even Jews and two who were adulteresses.
In keeping with God's promise to both Abraham and David, the Messiah was descended from both of them. Also included in this section is the time or exile to Babylon when the nation of Israel was being punished for their unfaithfulness to God. But, again as prophesied, the nation returned to Jerusalem and the lineage continued.
Matthew documented 14 generations from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the exile and 14 from the exile to Jesus the Christ. Through 42 generations, God continued to work His plan. Through good kings and bad kings, through good men and women and through bad men and women, generation after generation God had a plan. He knew long before Abraham was born what this plan would be and when he promised to Abraham that the whole world would be blessed through his seed (Gen 12:3 and Gen 22:18), He knew how that plan would unfold.
As Paul writes, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Gal 3:28 - HCSB). Jesus came for all of us regardless of background, race or creed. As Matthew Henry writes, "We ought not to upbraid people with the scandals of their ancestors; it is what they cannot help, and has been the lot of the best, even of our Master himself."
Take Refuge, my friend. God has a plan. He has always had a plan and He will continue to execute that plan until the day that Christ returns.
Friday, March 11, 2011
2 Peter 3 - God Is Waiting for You
2 Peter 3:9-12 (HCSB), "The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief; on that [day] the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, the elements will burn and be dissolved, and the earth and the works on it will be disclosed. Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, [it is clear] what sort of people you should be in holy conduct and godliness as you wait for and earnestly desire the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be on fire and be dissolved, and the elements will melt with the heat."
Peter warns of scoffers who think God isn't coming. And he warns of false teachers who will try to lead us away. But more importantly, he reminds us that, while God doesn't want any to perish, the day is coming when God will say, time's up. What are you doing with the knowledge of Jesus Christ? Have you responded to His call or are you still "thinking about it" and biding your time? Do you know others who are still thinking it over? Have you encouraged them lately to make a decision for Christ?
God is waiting, but the waiting will end. Knowing that, Peter reminds us how to live our lives "in holy conduct and godliness." When others see you, do they see Christ in you?
I could quote dozens of passages here giving examples of what God expects of us and what He has promised us. I challenge you to look through some of the other postings here and see examples of God's promises. But, the real question is, "What are you going to do about it?" Has God called you to a special task that you are not following? Have you chosen to live you life for your self rather than God? When others see you, do they think you look like you are just living in the world or do you look more like you are OF the world? God is waiting patiently "not wanting any to perish." What are you doing with the time?
As Joshua said, "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve ... But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" Joshua 24;15 (NKJV). Now is the time to respond to whatever God is doing in your life. There is no time like the present to put God first and follow wherever He is leading.
Take refuge in the knowledge that wherever you are right now, God will lead you from there. He is waiting for you.
Peter warns of scoffers who think God isn't coming. And he warns of false teachers who will try to lead us away. But more importantly, he reminds us that, while God doesn't want any to perish, the day is coming when God will say, time's up. What are you doing with the knowledge of Jesus Christ? Have you responded to His call or are you still "thinking about it" and biding your time? Do you know others who are still thinking it over? Have you encouraged them lately to make a decision for Christ?
God is waiting, but the waiting will end. Knowing that, Peter reminds us how to live our lives "in holy conduct and godliness." When others see you, do they see Christ in you?
I could quote dozens of passages here giving examples of what God expects of us and what He has promised us. I challenge you to look through some of the other postings here and see examples of God's promises. But, the real question is, "What are you going to do about it?" Has God called you to a special task that you are not following? Have you chosen to live you life for your self rather than God? When others see you, do they think you look like you are just living in the world or do you look more like you are OF the world? God is waiting patiently "not wanting any to perish." What are you doing with the time?
As Joshua said, "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve ... But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" Joshua 24;15 (NKJV). Now is the time to respond to whatever God is doing in your life. There is no time like the present to put God first and follow wherever He is leading.
Take refuge in the knowledge that wherever you are right now, God will lead you from there. He is waiting for you.
2 Peter 2 - The Lord Knows
2 Peter 2:9 (HCSB), "then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment"
Peter talks of God being willing to destroy the world by flood and rescue Noah. And, how God rescued Lot before destroying Sodom and Gomorrah. God is just. He sees our heart and He is ready to "rescue the godly from trials." Our trials may be caused by Satan's attacks against us. But sometimes, our trials are of our own making. Whether it be rebellion against something God has taught us or ignoring God's calling to something greater in our life, we create for ourselves trials and problems.
God knows the unrighteous, the ones who stand against Him, the ones who would do us harm because we believe in Him. Even though we don't always see God's judgement of them as he did with Sodom and Gomorrah, we know God's promises and His faithfulness to do what he says. Knowing that, we know that the unrighteous will be judged and found wanting by a holy and just God.
Remember, that God's know the godly and the unrighteous. He knows our hearts and He will help us through whatever comes our way just as He promised in 1 Corinthians 10:13 (HCSB), "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it." Whatever the temptation, He is able to help us. Whatever Satan throws at us, we have a God who is greater. He has already won the battle.
Take refuge, the Lord knows your heart and He knows what is coming your way even before you do. He will prepare you for whatever comes.
Peter talks of God being willing to destroy the world by flood and rescue Noah. And, how God rescued Lot before destroying Sodom and Gomorrah. God is just. He sees our heart and He is ready to "rescue the godly from trials." Our trials may be caused by Satan's attacks against us. But sometimes, our trials are of our own making. Whether it be rebellion against something God has taught us or ignoring God's calling to something greater in our life, we create for ourselves trials and problems.
God knows the unrighteous, the ones who stand against Him, the ones who would do us harm because we believe in Him. Even though we don't always see God's judgement of them as he did with Sodom and Gomorrah, we know God's promises and His faithfulness to do what he says. Knowing that, we know that the unrighteous will be judged and found wanting by a holy and just God.
Remember, that God's know the godly and the unrighteous. He knows our hearts and He will help us through whatever comes our way just as He promised in 1 Corinthians 10:13 (HCSB), "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it." Whatever the temptation, He is able to help us. Whatever Satan throws at us, we have a God who is greater. He has already won the battle.
Take refuge, the Lord knows your heart and He knows what is coming your way even before you do. He will prepare you for whatever comes.
2 Peter 1 - Prize Winner
2 Peter 1:3 (HCSB), "For His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. By these He has given us very great and precious promises, so that through them you may share in the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world because of evil desires."
Do you remember your school days when teams were arranged by 2 "captains" picking one by one? Were you ever the last one picked? Sometimes, like a draft in a professional sport, the ones who don't get picked don't get to play at all. Now let's take that n a different direction. Imagine you are at an event with 100,000 spectators and they are drawing from the ticket holders to give away a wonderful prize. You are the one called our from the crowd and awarded the prize.
That's what Peter is talking about. As a child of God, you are a ticket holder. Your ticket was a free gift, given to you when you accepted Christ as your Savior. The prize is "everything required for life and godliness". God called you out "by His own glory and goodness." You did nothing to earn it and you certainly don't deserve it. Yet, you get the prize!
Why would He give to anyone such a precious prize? Included in the prize are "very great and precious promises." Jesus was the promised Messiah. He paid the price for your ticket. Among the great and precious promises are: eternal life with the Father; having the Holy Spirit in and among us to guide us as we follow God; gifts provided by God to equip us along the way; the knowledge and assurance that God is able and faithful to complete all that He starts in us; and the list could go on and on.
Take refuge that you are a prize winner. YOU have been called by God. And in responding to His call, you will receive "very great and precious promises."
Do you remember your school days when teams were arranged by 2 "captains" picking one by one? Were you ever the last one picked? Sometimes, like a draft in a professional sport, the ones who don't get picked don't get to play at all. Now let's take that n a different direction. Imagine you are at an event with 100,000 spectators and they are drawing from the ticket holders to give away a wonderful prize. You are the one called our from the crowd and awarded the prize.
That's what Peter is talking about. As a child of God, you are a ticket holder. Your ticket was a free gift, given to you when you accepted Christ as your Savior. The prize is "everything required for life and godliness". God called you out "by His own glory and goodness." You did nothing to earn it and you certainly don't deserve it. Yet, you get the prize!
Why would He give to anyone such a precious prize? Included in the prize are "very great and precious promises." Jesus was the promised Messiah. He paid the price for your ticket. Among the great and precious promises are: eternal life with the Father; having the Holy Spirit in and among us to guide us as we follow God; gifts provided by God to equip us along the way; the knowledge and assurance that God is able and faithful to complete all that He starts in us; and the list could go on and on.
Take refuge that you are a prize winner. YOU have been called by God. And in responding to His call, you will receive "very great and precious promises."
Thursday, March 10, 2011
1 Peter 5 - The Blessing
1 Peter 5:10 (HCSB), "Now the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will personally restore, establish, strengthen, and support you after you have suffered a little."
In this chapter, Peter talks about how believers will suffer, just as Christ suffered. And, in the closing of this letter, Peter gives a blessing to the church reminding us all, once again, of the promise that Jesus has provided for us.
It doesn't matter what you have gone through. You may be a Christian with a miraculous testimony of how God saved you from a life of sin. You may be a Christian who grew up in a Christian home, accepted Christ at an early age and has always lived your life for Christ. Whatever your story, whatever your struggle, Jesus understood them all.
Regardless of our struggle, we can claim the promise 1 Corinthians 10:13 (HCSB), "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it."
Take Refuge in your struggle remembering that Jesus knows what you are going through and He will be there to go through it with you.
In this chapter, Peter talks about how believers will suffer, just as Christ suffered. And, in the closing of this letter, Peter gives a blessing to the church reminding us all, once again, of the promise that Jesus has provided for us.
It doesn't matter what you have gone through. You may be a Christian with a miraculous testimony of how God saved you from a life of sin. You may be a Christian who grew up in a Christian home, accepted Christ at an early age and has always lived your life for Christ. Whatever your story, whatever your struggle, Jesus understood them all.
Regardless of our struggle, we can claim the promise 1 Corinthians 10:13 (HCSB), "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it."
Take Refuge in your struggle remembering that Jesus knows what you are going through and He will be there to go through it with you.
1 Peter 4 - Use What God Gave You
1 Peter 4:10-11 (HCSB), "Based on the gift they have received, everyone should use it to serve others, as good managers of the varied grace of God. If anyone speaks, [his speech should be] like the oracles of God; if anyone serves, [his service should be] from the strength God provides, so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen."
We are reminded throughout the writings of the New Testament that the Body of Christ is equipped with gifts. There are many of them and they are intended for the edification and glory of God through their use. In this passage Peter is also reminding us to using the gifts that God has given us is being a good manager "of the varied grace of God."
What are your gifts? Have you ever taken a test or read a book to determine how God has uniquely gifted you? Romans 12:6-8 (HCSB), "According to the grace given to us, we have different gifts: If prophecy, use it according to the standard of faith; if service, in service; if teaching, in teaching; if exhorting, in exhortation; giving, with generosity; leading, with diligence; showing mercy, with cheerfulness." Whatever your gift is, do it with gusto to the best of your ability.
God gave each of us a unique gift or gifts so that we could be all that he had planned for us to be. It is part of the "abundant life" that John talks about in John 10:10. God wants us to be fulfilled in all that we do and he provided the skills for us to do that. It is our responsibility to find out what those skills are and to hone them to be our best for Him.
Take Refuge and use what God gave you. God gave each of us the gift or gifts that is best for us. He knows us well.
We are reminded throughout the writings of the New Testament that the Body of Christ is equipped with gifts. There are many of them and they are intended for the edification and glory of God through their use. In this passage Peter is also reminding us to using the gifts that God has given us is being a good manager "of the varied grace of God."
What are your gifts? Have you ever taken a test or read a book to determine how God has uniquely gifted you? Romans 12:6-8 (HCSB), "According to the grace given to us, we have different gifts: If prophecy, use it according to the standard of faith; if service, in service; if teaching, in teaching; if exhorting, in exhortation; giving, with generosity; leading, with diligence; showing mercy, with cheerfulness." Whatever your gift is, do it with gusto to the best of your ability.
God gave each of us a unique gift or gifts so that we could be all that he had planned for us to be. It is part of the "abundant life" that John talks about in John 10:10. God wants us to be fulfilled in all that we do and he provided the skills for us to do that. It is our responsibility to find out what those skills are and to hone them to be our best for Him.
Take Refuge and use what God gave you. God gave each of us the gift or gifts that is best for us. He knows us well.
1 Peter 3 - Be Prepared
1 Peter 3:15-16 (HCSB), "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander."
Day by day, I've looked at the chapters that I've been reading with an eye toward how we can take refuge is some aspect of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit or our relationship with them. Today, I want to take a little turn. Peter challenges us all to be prepared to give an answer. As you examine your life and consider all the wonderful, miraculous, self-less sacrifices that Jesus has made for you, are you ready to tell others what He has done?
Acts 17:17 (HCSB), "So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there." Paul was always available to "reason" with whomever he met, wherever he was. It is important, as we take refuge in what Jesus has done for us, that we are also ready to tell others about that sacrifice.
In his visit to Cornelius, Peter said, "He commanded us to preach to the people, and to solemnly testify that He is the One appointed by God to be the Judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about Him that through His name everyone who believes in Him will receive forgiveness of sins." - Acts 20:42 (HCSB) This doesn't just apply to the apostles of the early church. It applies to all of us.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 (HCSB), Paul writes, "Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." In this way he is admonishing us to always keep our eyes on God. The same is true with what Peter is trying to tell the church, "always be prepared to give an answer..."
Take Refuge, my friend, you have an answer to give. Jesus Christ made a sacrifice for you and for me so that through His sacrifice our debt was paid. Give thanks to God in everything because of everything He has given you.
Day by day, I've looked at the chapters that I've been reading with an eye toward how we can take refuge is some aspect of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit or our relationship with them. Today, I want to take a little turn. Peter challenges us all to be prepared to give an answer. As you examine your life and consider all the wonderful, miraculous, self-less sacrifices that Jesus has made for you, are you ready to tell others what He has done?
Acts 17:17 (HCSB), "So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there." Paul was always available to "reason" with whomever he met, wherever he was. It is important, as we take refuge in what Jesus has done for us, that we are also ready to tell others about that sacrifice.
In his visit to Cornelius, Peter said, "He commanded us to preach to the people, and to solemnly testify that He is the One appointed by God to be the Judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about Him that through His name everyone who believes in Him will receive forgiveness of sins." - Acts 20:42 (HCSB) This doesn't just apply to the apostles of the early church. It applies to all of us.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 (HCSB), Paul writes, "Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." In this way he is admonishing us to always keep our eyes on God. The same is true with what Peter is trying to tell the church, "always be prepared to give an answer..."
Take Refuge, my friend, you have an answer to give. Jesus Christ made a sacrifice for you and for me so that through His sacrifice our debt was paid. Give thanks to God in everything because of everything He has given you.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
1 Peter 2 - Living Stones
1 Peter 2:4-5 (HCSB), "Coming to Him, a living stone—rejected by men but chosen and valuable to God — you yourselves, as living stones, are being built into a spiritual house for a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ."
Peter encourages the church that although they have been rejected by men, they are valuable to God. God is using them to build a spiritual house that will be vibrant and full of life. A house where spiritual sacrifices are presented and acceptable to God. When we look in Romans 12:1 (HCSB), "Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship." we see that we, personally, are the spiritual sacrifices that God wants.
Picture for a moment a "stone" house. In today's times it is really a wooden house with a stone face. Some of those faces come as a facade that just looks like stone and, as such, has no real depth to it. However, sometimes the stone face is built, one stone at a time, by a master craftsman. He will go out and check his sources attempting to find stones that are the right color, shape and mixture of sizes to construct the perfect wall. Generally, they are able to build the wall by positioning stones in a seemingly random fashion, but sometimes they have to search their pile of stones to find the one that fits perfectly in a particular place.
You are like that stone. You may have been looked over and tossed away. But as God is building his spiritual house, he is looking for you to fill the spot that is saved just for you.
Take Refuge in the living stones chosen by God to fit His purpose.
Peter encourages the church that although they have been rejected by men, they are valuable to God. God is using them to build a spiritual house that will be vibrant and full of life. A house where spiritual sacrifices are presented and acceptable to God. When we look in Romans 12:1 (HCSB), "Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship." we see that we, personally, are the spiritual sacrifices that God wants.
Picture for a moment a "stone" house. In today's times it is really a wooden house with a stone face. Some of those faces come as a facade that just looks like stone and, as such, has no real depth to it. However, sometimes the stone face is built, one stone at a time, by a master craftsman. He will go out and check his sources attempting to find stones that are the right color, shape and mixture of sizes to construct the perfect wall. Generally, they are able to build the wall by positioning stones in a seemingly random fashion, but sometimes they have to search their pile of stones to find the one that fits perfectly in a particular place.
You are like that stone. You may have been looked over and tossed away. But as God is building his spiritual house, he is looking for you to fill the spot that is saved just for you.
Take Refuge in the living stones chosen by God to fit His purpose.
1 Peter 1 - A Living Hope
1 Peter 1:3-5 (HCSB), "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who are being protected by God's power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time."
1 Peter 1:18-19 (HCSB), "For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things, like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish."
As Peter writes the church scattered abroad, he starts by reminding them of the living hope they have through Jesus and follows that with a call to holy living. What a combination. We have an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted and unfading which was redeemed by the precious blood of Christ.
From The Messge, 1 Peter 1:3-4, "What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now!" What a God indeed. His grace towards us and His mercy on us are immeasurable. And in that grace, He provided a redemption for us.
Take Refuge in the living hope of Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 1:18-19 (HCSB), "For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things, like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish."
As Peter writes the church scattered abroad, he starts by reminding them of the living hope they have through Jesus and follows that with a call to holy living. What a combination. We have an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted and unfading which was redeemed by the precious blood of Christ.
From The Messge, 1 Peter 1:3-4, "What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now!" What a God indeed. His grace towards us and His mercy on us are immeasurable. And in that grace, He provided a redemption for us.
Take Refuge in the living hope of Jesus Christ.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
James 5 - Be Patient
James 5:7-8 (HCSB), "Therefore, brothers, be patient until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth and is patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, because the Lord's coming is near."
One of the hardest phrases for a child to hear is their parent saying, "Be patient." It doesn't matter what they are waiting for, the patience to wait is always a challenge. But, if we just remember what we are being patient for -- "the Lord's coming" -- it will help. As it is written in Hosea 6:3a (HCSB), "Let us strive to know the LORD. His appearance is as sure as the dawn."
Romans 5:3-4 (MSG), "... We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next." Troubles develop patience and patience becomes virtue. Be patient, the Lord is coming.
Just as we talked about in James 4 and not doing what we know we need to do, we easily fall pray to the lack of patience. We want it now! We are the child and God is the Father and whatever we are praying for, we want now. But, being the father that He is, God knows what is best for us and only gives us what we are ready for at the time.
Take Refuge. We can be patient for the Lord's coming because we know it will come to pass. God is good, all the time. And, in His goodness, he will help us to be patient and wait for Him.
One of the hardest phrases for a child to hear is their parent saying, "Be patient." It doesn't matter what they are waiting for, the patience to wait is always a challenge. But, if we just remember what we are being patient for -- "the Lord's coming" -- it will help. As it is written in Hosea 6:3a (HCSB), "Let us strive to know the LORD. His appearance is as sure as the dawn."
Romans 5:3-4 (MSG), "... We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next." Troubles develop patience and patience becomes virtue. Be patient, the Lord is coming.
Just as we talked about in James 4 and not doing what we know we need to do, we easily fall pray to the lack of patience. We want it now! We are the child and God is the Father and whatever we are praying for, we want now. But, being the father that He is, God knows what is best for us and only gives us what we are ready for at the time.
Take Refuge. We can be patient for the Lord's coming because we know it will come to pass. God is good, all the time. And, in His goodness, he will help us to be patient and wait for Him.
James 4 - You Know What To Do
James 4:17 (HCSB), "So, for the person who knows to do good and doesn't do it, it is a sin."
You may be looking at that verse and asking, where do I take refuge in that?
God chastised Cain when he was upset that God did not accept his offering: Genesis 4:7b (HCSB), "...But if you do not do right, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must master it."
Paul expressed his remorse over it in Romans 7:19 (HCSB), "For I do not do the good that I want to do, but I practice the evil that I do not want to do."
All of us as believers struggle with the desire to do things that we ought not to do and the frustration when we don't do what we know we should. But, rejoice! If we didn't have the Spirit to prompt us as we seek to life holy lives, how would we know what is good and what is not? God provided a way for us to know good. God sent an encourager to prompt us to do good. And God has promised over and over to bless those who follow His ways.
It began with the old covenant and His promise to Abraham to bless him and multiply his offspring. It continues with the new covenant where God allows His own Son to make a way for use through His sacrifice. God has always provided a way for us to be empowered to "do good" even when we don't see it in ourselves.
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:13 (HCSB), "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it." We face the temptation every day to avoid doing what we know we should do. But God has given us the grace to push on through the temptation and live triumphantly in His power.
Take Refuge, my friend. When you know what to do and you struggle not wanting to do it, you have a Helper and a Savior who will come along side you and encourage you to do what you know you should.
You may be looking at that verse and asking, where do I take refuge in that?
God chastised Cain when he was upset that God did not accept his offering: Genesis 4:7b (HCSB), "...But if you do not do right, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must master it."
Paul expressed his remorse over it in Romans 7:19 (HCSB), "For I do not do the good that I want to do, but I practice the evil that I do not want to do."
All of us as believers struggle with the desire to do things that we ought not to do and the frustration when we don't do what we know we should. But, rejoice! If we didn't have the Spirit to prompt us as we seek to life holy lives, how would we know what is good and what is not? God provided a way for us to know good. God sent an encourager to prompt us to do good. And God has promised over and over to bless those who follow His ways.
It began with the old covenant and His promise to Abraham to bless him and multiply his offspring. It continues with the new covenant where God allows His own Son to make a way for use through His sacrifice. God has always provided a way for us to be empowered to "do good" even when we don't see it in ourselves.
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:13 (HCSB), "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it." We face the temptation every day to avoid doing what we know we should do. But God has given us the grace to push on through the temptation and live triumphantly in His power.
Take Refuge, my friend. When you know what to do and you struggle not wanting to do it, you have a Helper and a Savior who will come along side you and encourage you to do what you know you should.
James 3 - Fruit of Righteousness
James 3:17-18 (HCSB) "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."
We already talked about asking for wisdom and God's generous provision in James 1. But here, James describes that wisdom in terms of the fruits of righteousness that it displays. We are challenged to ask "in faith without doubting." Here we find out why. By putting forth our faith as part of the good works James talks about in chapter 2 and using that faith to bridle our tounge as he talks about in chapter 3, we display our fruit of righteousness that can only be inspired by the Father above. It becomes a circle exemplifying the Christian walk.
We have faith in Christ. Through that faith, we ask the Father for wisdom. As a result of God's wisdom, we display our faith through works, self denial and our treatment of others. This in turn leads others to exercise faith in Christ which also renews our own faith seeing Him work in others.
I really like the way James 3:17 is stated in The Message, "Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced." God's wisdom, when accepted in faith, fills us with the desire to live a holy life. Matthew Henry reflects on these verses with, "May the purity, peace, gentleness, teachableness, and mercy shown in all our actions, and the fruits of righteousness abounding in our lives, prove that God has bestowed upon us this excellent gift."
Take Refuge in God's wisdom as to fill us with the Fruit of Righteousness, a truly excellent gift.
We already talked about asking for wisdom and God's generous provision in James 1. But here, James describes that wisdom in terms of the fruits of righteousness that it displays. We are challenged to ask "in faith without doubting." Here we find out why. By putting forth our faith as part of the good works James talks about in chapter 2 and using that faith to bridle our tounge as he talks about in chapter 3, we display our fruit of righteousness that can only be inspired by the Father above. It becomes a circle exemplifying the Christian walk.
We have faith in Christ. Through that faith, we ask the Father for wisdom. As a result of God's wisdom, we display our faith through works, self denial and our treatment of others. This in turn leads others to exercise faith in Christ which also renews our own faith seeing Him work in others.
I really like the way James 3:17 is stated in The Message, "Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced." God's wisdom, when accepted in faith, fills us with the desire to live a holy life. Matthew Henry reflects on these verses with, "May the purity, peace, gentleness, teachableness, and mercy shown in all our actions, and the fruits of righteousness abounding in our lives, prove that God has bestowed upon us this excellent gift."
Take Refuge in God's wisdom as to fill us with the Fruit of Righteousness, a truly excellent gift.
Friday, March 4, 2011
James 2 - Rich or Poor
James 2:5 (HCSB), "Listen, my dear brothers: Didn't God choose the poor in this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that He has promised to those who love Him?"
Hallelujah, God's ways are not our ways. In James 2, we are given the illustration that if you show favoritism of one group over another (in this case rich over poor), you "discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts", James 2:4 (HCSB). It would be better for us to remember Job 34:19 (HCSB), "God is not partial to princes and does not favor the rich over the poor, for they are all the work of His hands."
God made each of us regardless of our position in society. God loves all of His children. Our challenge is to see the people around us with God's eyes and not man's eyes. Each person is one of God's unique creations and worthy of His love and our love too. Likewise, if others are worthy of God's love, then you are too.
Take Refuge, regardless of your "place" in life, God loves you individually and He expects all Christians to love your as well.
Hallelujah, God's ways are not our ways. In James 2, we are given the illustration that if you show favoritism of one group over another (in this case rich over poor), you "discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts", James 2:4 (HCSB). It would be better for us to remember Job 34:19 (HCSB), "God is not partial to princes and does not favor the rich over the poor, for they are all the work of His hands."
God made each of us regardless of our position in society. God loves all of His children. Our challenge is to see the people around us with God's eyes and not man's eyes. Each person is one of God's unique creations and worthy of His love and our love too. Likewise, if others are worthy of God's love, then you are too.
Take Refuge, regardless of your "place" in life, God loves you individually and He expects all Christians to love your as well.
James 1 - Wisdom
James 1:2-5 (HCSB), "Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him."
A friend of mine once described James as Christianity 101. A lesson in the basics of Christianity. With that in mind, where does he start? Expect trials and ask for wisdom. Matthew Henry wrote, "We should not pray so much for the removal of affliction, as for wisdom to make a right use of it. And who does not want wisdom to guide him under trials, both in regulating his own spirit, and in managing his affairs?"
God promises that if we ask for wisdom, he will give it generously. James goes on to say that we must ask "in faith without doubting". This is true in all parts of our Christian walk. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:19 (HCSB), "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Take Refuge, God is our provider. He is always waiting for us to seek His help.
A friend of mine once described James as Christianity 101. A lesson in the basics of Christianity. With that in mind, where does he start? Expect trials and ask for wisdom. Matthew Henry wrote, "We should not pray so much for the removal of affliction, as for wisdom to make a right use of it. And who does not want wisdom to guide him under trials, both in regulating his own spirit, and in managing his affairs?"
God promises that if we ask for wisdom, he will give it generously. James goes on to say that we must ask "in faith without doubting". This is true in all parts of our Christian walk. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:19 (HCSB), "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Take Refuge, God is our provider. He is always waiting for us to seek His help.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Hebrews 13 - Yesterday, Today and Forever
Hebrews 13:8 (HCSB), "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever."
What a way to summarize the final entry for Hebrews. Jesus, our high priest, is, was and always will be our savior. He is with us, in us, surrounding us and enabling us. He wants to show His love to us and through us to a dieing world. It is all about our relationship with Christ. Our faith in God enables Him to bless us. Our acceptance of Christ as our savior enables Him to intercede on our behalf before the Father. And that's the way it will always be until we are in Heaven with Him.
Matthew Henry writes, "And though their ministers were some dead, others dying, yet the great Head and High Priest of the church, the Bishop of their souls, ever lives, and is ever the same. Christ is the same in the Old Testament day. as in the gospel day, and will be so to his people for ever, equally merciful, powerful, and all-sufficient. Still he fills the hungry, encourages the trembling, and welcomes repenting sinners: still he rejects the proud and self-righteous, abhors mere profession, and teaches all whom he saves, to love righteousness, and to hate iniquity." So much insight for such a small passage, WOW!
Take Refuge -- the more you get to know Christ, the more you will find that He is always the same. Always faithful. Always loving. Always available. You just have to call on Him and He will be there for you.
What a way to summarize the final entry for Hebrews. Jesus, our high priest, is, was and always will be our savior. He is with us, in us, surrounding us and enabling us. He wants to show His love to us and through us to a dieing world. It is all about our relationship with Christ. Our faith in God enables Him to bless us. Our acceptance of Christ as our savior enables Him to intercede on our behalf before the Father. And that's the way it will always be until we are in Heaven with Him.
Matthew Henry writes, "And though their ministers were some dead, others dying, yet the great Head and High Priest of the church, the Bishop of their souls, ever lives, and is ever the same. Christ is the same in the Old Testament day. as in the gospel day, and will be so to his people for ever, equally merciful, powerful, and all-sufficient. Still he fills the hungry, encourages the trembling, and welcomes repenting sinners: still he rejects the proud and self-righteous, abhors mere profession, and teaches all whom he saves, to love righteousness, and to hate iniquity." So much insight for such a small passage, WOW!
Take Refuge -- the more you get to know Christ, the more you will find that He is always the same. Always faithful. Always loving. Always available. You just have to call on Him and He will be there for you.
Hebrews 12 - The Race
Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV), "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
This was written by my son and said so well that I just had to repeat it here to share with you.
"Runners look towards and think about only one thing, the end which gives them victory. With victory comes a great prize. We as Christians are promised the greatest prize imaginable, eternity with Christ in Glory. How then do we allow ourselves to forget so quickly about the race set before us? How then do we so quickly forget about the prize that awaits?
Horses used to pull carriages are given a set of blinders so that they don't get destracted by what is to their left or right. Do we then not have a set of blinders that keep us fully focused on Christ? Well? The answer is yes. We just often "forget" (and I use that term loosely) them. We are truely and easily entaingled by the things that are headed for the junk yard.
Paul talks about how Christ suffered the cross willing because of the JOY that He would recieve having us in Heaven. Beaten, mocked, denied, and stripped of his clothing, willing;y took on the sin of man. And with perseveance ran the race that God set before Him, knowing full well that the end, here on earth, was being crucified on a cross. The most dishororing way to die, and yet, He did it willingly and took GREAT joy in the prize that He does not yet have. Why then can we not even for a moment stay focused on Him and take Joy in the prize that is yet to come?"
Take Refuge my friend. A race run well results in the ultimate prize - eternity with Christ.
This was written by my son and said so well that I just had to repeat it here to share with you.
"Runners look towards and think about only one thing, the end which gives them victory. With victory comes a great prize. We as Christians are promised the greatest prize imaginable, eternity with Christ in Glory. How then do we allow ourselves to forget so quickly about the race set before us? How then do we so quickly forget about the prize that awaits?
Horses used to pull carriages are given a set of blinders so that they don't get destracted by what is to their left or right. Do we then not have a set of blinders that keep us fully focused on Christ? Well? The answer is yes. We just often "forget" (and I use that term loosely) them. We are truely and easily entaingled by the things that are headed for the junk yard.
Paul talks about how Christ suffered the cross willing because of the JOY that He would recieve having us in Heaven. Beaten, mocked, denied, and stripped of his clothing, willing;y took on the sin of man. And with perseveance ran the race that God set before Him, knowing full well that the end, here on earth, was being crucified on a cross. The most dishororing way to die, and yet, He did it willingly and took GREAT joy in the prize that He does not yet have. Why then can we not even for a moment stay focused on Him and take Joy in the prize that is yet to come?"
Take Refuge my friend. A race run well results in the ultimate prize - eternity with Christ.
Hebrews 11 - By Faith
Hebrews 11 is one of the most inspiring passages in the Bible. It is often referred to as the Hall of Faith. Here is a list of many who had faith in God and were blessed as a result of their faith. They showed their faith in many forms; Abraham trusted God's covenant and fathered a nation, others were great warriors, others just pleased God like Enoch. All knew that God was their provider and they had faith in Him. How does this work? The answer lies in verse 6, "Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him." (HCSB).
Without faith we cannot please God. More importantly, we must believe that He exists and that He cares. God loves us and wants the best for us at all times. We just have to trust Him and believe that His way is the best way for us.
As I work through Hebrews (only 2 more chapters to go), these blogs start to sound like a broken record. God loves us... Christ sacrificed for us... We can trust Him... But, it is all true and illustrated in so many ways throughout this book. Now in chapter 11, we get to see examples of those who believed it with all their heart and what God did for them and through them. God wants us to have faith in Him so that He can use us as well.
Take Refuge that by faith, we can please God and he can use us.
Without faith we cannot please God. More importantly, we must believe that He exists and that He cares. God loves us and wants the best for us at all times. We just have to trust Him and believe that His way is the best way for us.
As I work through Hebrews (only 2 more chapters to go), these blogs start to sound like a broken record. God loves us... Christ sacrificed for us... We can trust Him... But, it is all true and illustrated in so many ways throughout this book. Now in chapter 11, we get to see examples of those who believed it with all their heart and what God did for them and through them. God wants us to have faith in Him so that He can use us as well.
Take Refuge that by faith, we can please God and he can use us.
Hebrews 10 - Let's Do It
Hebrews 10:22-23 (The Message), "So let's do it—full of belief, confident that we're presentable inside and out. Let's keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word."
Hebrews 10:22-23 (HCSB), "let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled [clean] from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful."
I really like the way The Message presents this passage, "So, let's do it..."
When my second son was 2, he and his older brother received a nerf baskeball goal for Christmas. My oldest son, 3 at the time, didn't have any problem making baskets, but the 2-year old just couldn't do it. Finally, as we were cleaning up after lunch, we looked into the living room to see the 2-year-old push the goal next to the sofa. He then picked up the nerf basketball and put it on the sofa. He climbed up on the sofa, picked up the ball and walked over to the goal. Now looking down on the goal he shoved the ball through the net and said, "I can do it!"
We can do it too. We have a clena conscience provided by the purification of a loving savior. All we have to do is "hold on to the confession of hope without wavering." Christ promised that he would be with us always. That His sacrifice was enough. And, as our high priest, He is faithful to keep His word to us.
Take Refuge that we can go forth "full of belief, confident that we're presentable inside and out." God is with us, Christ is interceeding for us, we are loved and we can do it!
Hebrews 10:22-23 (HCSB), "let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled [clean] from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful."
I really like the way The Message presents this passage, "So, let's do it..."
When my second son was 2, he and his older brother received a nerf baskeball goal for Christmas. My oldest son, 3 at the time, didn't have any problem making baskets, but the 2-year old just couldn't do it. Finally, as we were cleaning up after lunch, we looked into the living room to see the 2-year-old push the goal next to the sofa. He then picked up the nerf basketball and put it on the sofa. He climbed up on the sofa, picked up the ball and walked over to the goal. Now looking down on the goal he shoved the ball through the net and said, "I can do it!"
We can do it too. We have a clena conscience provided by the purification of a loving savior. All we have to do is "hold on to the confession of hope without wavering." Christ promised that he would be with us always. That His sacrifice was enough. And, as our high priest, He is faithful to keep His word to us.
Take Refuge that we can go forth "full of belief, confident that we're presentable inside and out." God is with us, Christ is interceeding for us, we are loved and we can do it!
Hebrews 9 - By His Blood
Hebrews 9:12-14 "He entered the holy of holies once for all, not by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling those who are defiled, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, how much more will the blood of the Messiah, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works to serve the living God?"
Once again, we are reminded that Christ gave himself for us. His blood cleanses our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. As Matthew Henry writes, "The depth of the mystery of the sacrifice of Christ, we cannot dive into, the height we cannot comprehend. We cannot search out the greatness of it, or the wisdom, the love, the grace that is in it. But in considering the sacrifice of Christ, faith finds life, food, and refreshment."
We can find solace and rest knowing that Christ satisfied the price for our sins once and for all. He made a way for us that we could never do on our own. The sacrifices of the old covenant purified the flesh, but Christ's blood purifies the soul.
Take Refuge in the blood of Christ -- the sacrifice that was required to cover our sins.
Once again, we are reminded that Christ gave himself for us. His blood cleanses our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. As Matthew Henry writes, "The depth of the mystery of the sacrifice of Christ, we cannot dive into, the height we cannot comprehend. We cannot search out the greatness of it, or the wisdom, the love, the grace that is in it. But in considering the sacrifice of Christ, faith finds life, food, and refreshment."
We can find solace and rest knowing that Christ satisfied the price for our sins once and for all. He made a way for us that we could never do on our own. The sacrifices of the old covenant purified the flesh, but Christ's blood purifies the soul.
Take Refuge in the blood of Christ -- the sacrifice that was required to cover our sins.
Hebrews 8 - I Will Be Their God
Hebrews 8:10 (HCSB), "'But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days,' says the Lord: 'I will put My laws into their minds, and I will write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they will be My people.'"
'"
The author of Hebrews here refers to the covenant that God made with Abraham in Genesis 17:7-8 and reaffirmed to the nation in Zechariah 8:8. Although this covenant is addressed to the "house of Israel", each of us who have accepted Christ as our saviour are also included when God says "My people." We are heirs with Christ and as such, God also covenants with us that He will be our God and we will be His people.
It's like a father who introduces his child to someone for the first time and says, "this is my child". There is a sense of belonging to be "God's people." Likewise, there is also implied a sense of responsibility when God says, "I will be their God." God is that father -- ready and willing to introduce his child and proudly proclaim, "this is my child".
Additionally, God promises to put His laws on our minds and on our hearts. As it says in The Message, "This new plan I'm making with Israel isn't going to be written on paper, isn't going to be chiseled in stone; This time I'm writing out the plan in them, carving it on the lining of their hearts. I'll be their God, they'll be my people." God loves us so much and cares for us so much that He wants us to know him intimately with our innermost being. Knowing in our mind and trusting in our heart that He is there for us no matter what.
Take Refuge. God has made His claim over you and stand ready to be your God.
'"
The author of Hebrews here refers to the covenant that God made with Abraham in Genesis 17:7-8 and reaffirmed to the nation in Zechariah 8:8. Although this covenant is addressed to the "house of Israel", each of us who have accepted Christ as our saviour are also included when God says "My people." We are heirs with Christ and as such, God also covenants with us that He will be our God and we will be His people.
It's like a father who introduces his child to someone for the first time and says, "this is my child". There is a sense of belonging to be "God's people." Likewise, there is also implied a sense of responsibility when God says, "I will be their God." God is that father -- ready and willing to introduce his child and proudly proclaim, "this is my child".
Additionally, God promises to put His laws on our minds and on our hearts. As it says in The Message, "This new plan I'm making with Israel isn't going to be written on paper, isn't going to be chiseled in stone; This time I'm writing out the plan in them, carving it on the lining of their hearts. I'll be their God, they'll be my people." God loves us so much and cares for us so much that He wants us to know him intimately with our innermost being. Knowing in our mind and trusting in our heart that He is there for us no matter what.
Take Refuge. God has made His claim over you and stand ready to be your God.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Hebrews 7 - Always
As we see the many aspects of Jesus' role as the High Priest throughout the book of Hebrews, I feel a special assurance in verse 25 of chapter 7. "Therefore He is always able to save those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them." Jesus is ALWAYS there to intercede on our behalf.
Jesus did not take up this role lightly. He accepted the responsibility to always be there for us and to be the intermediary before the Father. This was not a role that could be filled from time to time as needed. It is a constant, never ending responsibility.
Have you ever failed to carry on with a task that was assigned to you which would always be yours to do? 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, "Rejoice always! Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Do ever stop rejoicing? Do ever stop praying? Do you ever find yourself experiencing problems or trials that you don't give thanks for? It is part of the human nature to eventually give up. We are human, after all. But Jesus, fully human and fully God did not. He has not stopped saving those who come to God through him and he will not stop saving them.
Take Refuge that we ALWAYS have an intecessor in Jesus Christ, our High Priest
Jesus did not take up this role lightly. He accepted the responsibility to always be there for us and to be the intermediary before the Father. This was not a role that could be filled from time to time as needed. It is a constant, never ending responsibility.
Have you ever failed to carry on with a task that was assigned to you which would always be yours to do? 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, "Rejoice always! Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Do ever stop rejoicing? Do ever stop praying? Do you ever find yourself experiencing problems or trials that you don't give thanks for? It is part of the human nature to eventually give up. We are human, after all. But Jesus, fully human and fully God did not. He has not stopped saving those who come to God through him and he will not stop saving them.
Take Refuge that we ALWAYS have an intecessor in Jesus Christ, our High Priest
Hebrews 6 - Hope
1 Corintians 13 ends with "Now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." Faith, hope and love are the three greatest representations of God's grace. Hope is the grace that keeps us looking to the future for a better life and a better way. We find that future in Jesus, if we seek him, place our faith in him, allow ourselves to hope through him and love him -- giving up ourselves to him.
Hebrews 6:19 says, "We have this [hope]-like a sure and firm anchor of the soul-that enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain." Like the anchor of a ship that will hold it steady in uncertain times, Jesus Christ, as our hope, provides the assurance that no matter what comes our way He is there to support us.
The author of Hebrews explains that Jesus is our High Priest having earned that role through a blameless life culimnating in suffering and sacrifice. As our High Priest, he has the right to go to the Father and offer himself in our place. In doing so, he provides us with the hope that we too can one day be with him in glory.
Take Refuge in the hope we have which is Jesus!
Hebrews 6:19 says, "We have this [hope]-like a sure and firm anchor of the soul-that enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain." Like the anchor of a ship that will hold it steady in uncertain times, Jesus Christ, as our hope, provides the assurance that no matter what comes our way He is there to support us.
The author of Hebrews explains that Jesus is our High Priest having earned that role through a blameless life culimnating in suffering and sacrifice. As our High Priest, he has the right to go to the Father and offer himself in our place. In doing so, he provides us with the hope that we too can one day be with him in glory.
Take Refuge in the hope we have which is Jesus!
Hebrews 5 - Suffering
How many times have you complained about your suffering and the trials you have faced? We often look at ourselves and grouse about how bad we have it. Look at the description of Jesus in Hebrews 5 and how He responded to suffering.
Hebrews 5:7-9 (HCSB), "During His earthly life, He offered prayers and appeals, with loud cries and tears, to the One who was able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence. Though a Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered. After He was perfected, He became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him"
Christ, though the Son of God whose rightful place was with the Father in Heaven, learned obedience through suffering. God, the Father, could have saved him from death, but the Father knew that the Son must be the sacrifice for our sins. While Jesus' prayers were heard because of his reverence for the Father, Jesus always sought the Father's will. Even in Gethsemane when he prayed, "... My Father! If it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." (Matthew 26:39 - HCSB). Even as he asked for mercy, he knew that it was more important for him to suffer and seek the Father's will.
Through his suffering, our sins are covered. He learned obedience and taught obedience by looking to the Father and seeking His will above all. Jesus was fully human, tempted and tested by all things human. Let us learn from his obedience.
Take Refuge in a Saviour willing to give up his right and his will and who chose suffering, even unto death, for you and me so that we might one day be with Him in glory.
Hebrews 5:7-9 (HCSB), "During His earthly life, He offered prayers and appeals, with loud cries and tears, to the One who was able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence. Though a Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered. After He was perfected, He became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him"
Christ, though the Son of God whose rightful place was with the Father in Heaven, learned obedience through suffering. God, the Father, could have saved him from death, but the Father knew that the Son must be the sacrifice for our sins. While Jesus' prayers were heard because of his reverence for the Father, Jesus always sought the Father's will. Even in Gethsemane when he prayed, "... My Father! If it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." (Matthew 26:39 - HCSB). Even as he asked for mercy, he knew that it was more important for him to suffer and seek the Father's will.
Through his suffering, our sins are covered. He learned obedience and taught obedience by looking to the Father and seeking His will above all. Jesus was fully human, tempted and tested by all things human. Let us learn from his obedience.
Take Refuge in a Saviour willing to give up his right and his will and who chose suffering, even unto death, for you and me so that we might one day be with Him in glory.
Hebrews 4 - The High Priest
Hebrews 4:14-15 (HCSB), "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens -- Jesus the Son of God -- let us hold fast to the confession. For we do no have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tested in every way as we are, yet without sin."
The same verses in The Message say, "Now that we know what we have -- Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God -- let's not let it slip through our finders. We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all -- all but sin."
Jesus came to earth as the sacrifice to pay the price of death required for our sins. He came knowing what he had to do and he did it without seeing immediate results for his actions. He was fully human and experienced the same temptations and weaknesses as are common to man. Yet he did not sin!!!!
In the Jewish culture, the role of high priest (among others) was to offer sacrifice for himself, the priesthood and all of the nation of Israel. He had both daily offerings to make as well as the annual offering on The Day of Atonement or Yom Kippur when he entered the Holy of Holies.
Hebrews 7:26-27 says of Jesus, "For this is the kind of high priest we need: holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He doesn't need to offer sacrifices every day, as high priests do - first for their own sins, then for those of the people. He did this once for all when he offered Himself."
Take Refuge the Jesus is your High Priest. Blameless and able to stand before God on your behalf.
The same verses in The Message say, "Now that we know what we have -- Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God -- let's not let it slip through our finders. We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all -- all but sin."
Jesus came to earth as the sacrifice to pay the price of death required for our sins. He came knowing what he had to do and he did it without seeing immediate results for his actions. He was fully human and experienced the same temptations and weaknesses as are common to man. Yet he did not sin!!!!
In the Jewish culture, the role of high priest (among others) was to offer sacrifice for himself, the priesthood and all of the nation of Israel. He had both daily offerings to make as well as the annual offering on The Day of Atonement or Yom Kippur when he entered the Holy of Holies.
Hebrews 7:26-27 says of Jesus, "For this is the kind of high priest we need: holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He doesn't need to offer sacrifices every day, as high priests do - first for their own sins, then for those of the people. He did this once for all when he offered Himself."
Take Refuge the Jesus is your High Priest. Blameless and able to stand before God on your behalf.
Hebrews 3 - The Builder
Hebrews 3:4 (HCSB) "Now every house is built by somene, but the One who built everything is God." God is the master builder.
Before building a house or any structure, the builder must first plan the process. No house or building is built just on a whim. Every one has some form of architectural plan. Be it blue prints or just a plan written on paper, there is a plan.
God has a plan for each and every one of us. Psalm 139:13 (HCSB) says, "For it was You who created my inward parts; You knit me together in my mother's womb." My daughter is an avid knitter and crocheter. One day, when discussing this verse, she observed, "In order to knit something, every inch of the thread has to come through your hands. If God knit us, then every cell of our body must go through His hands before we are born."
And so it is, the builder of everything builds with a plan. And, in executing that plan, every part of your life is filtered through His hands.
Take Refuge in the builder of everything!
Before building a house or any structure, the builder must first plan the process. No house or building is built just on a whim. Every one has some form of architectural plan. Be it blue prints or just a plan written on paper, there is a plan.
God has a plan for each and every one of us. Psalm 139:13 (HCSB) says, "For it was You who created my inward parts; You knit me together in my mother's womb." My daughter is an avid knitter and crocheter. One day, when discussing this verse, she observed, "In order to knit something, every inch of the thread has to come through your hands. If God knit us, then every cell of our body must go through His hands before we are born."
And so it is, the builder of everything builds with a plan. And, in executing that plan, every part of your life is filtered through His hands.
Take Refuge in the builder of everything!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Hebrews 2 - What is Man?
Hebrews 2:6 (HCSB) "What is man, that You remember him, or the son of man, that You care for him?" This verse is a reference to Psalm 8 which is the source for one of my favorite choir anthems, "The Majesty and Glory of Your Name". In the Psalm, David was praising God and ask the rhetorical question of why God would care about man. David's response is as if to say "I'll never understand..." and concluding in Psalm 8:9 (HCSB), "Lord, our Lord, how magnificent is Your name throughout the earth!"
What we see in Hebrews is the answer to the rhetorical question. A savior who understood that in order for him to be a sacrifice for us, He had to become like us in every way. Hebrews 2:9-10 (HCSB), "But we do see Jesus- made lower than the angels for a short time so that by God's grace He might taste death for everyone-crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death. For it was fitting, in bringing many sons to glory, that He, for whom and through whom all things exist, should make the source of their salvation perfect through sufferings."
The author of Hebrews goes on to show us a glimpse into the heart of Jesus in 2:14-15 (HCSB), "Now since the children have flesh and blood in common, He also shared in these, so that through His death He might destroy the one holding the power of death-that is, the Devil- and free those who were held in slavery all their lives by the fear of death." Matthew Henry summarizes this passage by saying, "Here the wonderful love of God appeared, that, when Christ knew what he must suffer in our nature, and how he must die in it, yet he readily took it upon him. And this atonement made way for his people's deliverance from Satan's bondage, and for the pardon of their sins through faith."
Take refuge! We have a Savior that understood that he too must be like man, "a little lower than the angels," so that he could be the purging sacrifice for our sins. Oh God, how truly majestic is your name!
What we see in Hebrews is the answer to the rhetorical question. A savior who understood that in order for him to be a sacrifice for us, He had to become like us in every way. Hebrews 2:9-10 (HCSB), "But we do see Jesus- made lower than the angels for a short time so that by God's grace He might taste death for everyone-crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death. For it was fitting, in bringing many sons to glory, that He, for whom and through whom all things exist, should make the source of their salvation perfect through sufferings."
The author of Hebrews goes on to show us a glimpse into the heart of Jesus in 2:14-15 (HCSB), "Now since the children have flesh and blood in common, He also shared in these, so that through His death He might destroy the one holding the power of death-that is, the Devil- and free those who were held in slavery all their lives by the fear of death." Matthew Henry summarizes this passage by saying, "Here the wonderful love of God appeared, that, when Christ knew what he must suffer in our nature, and how he must die in it, yet he readily took it upon him. And this atonement made way for his people's deliverance from Satan's bondage, and for the pardon of their sins through faith."
Take refuge! We have a Savior that understood that he too must be like man, "a little lower than the angels," so that he could be the purging sacrifice for our sins. Oh God, how truly majestic is your name!
Hebrews 1 - Jesus the Son
As I was looking forward to the daily readings (and bloggings) on Hebrews, I was almost giddy with excitement and frozen with fear at the same time. While Hebrews is for believers an exciting exposition about the many attributes of Jesus, it is also a source of many very deep thoughts about the everlasting Son of God. In Matthew Henry's commentary, he writes, "This epistle shows Christ as the end, foundation, body, and truth of the figures of the law, which of themselves were no virtue for the soul. The great truth set forth in this epistle is that Jesus of Nazareth is the true God."
Take refuge my friend that the Jesus that I am talking about daily is the "true God."
One of my favorite phrases from Matthew Henry's commentary comes from the the knowledge of Jesus Christ is the very marrow and kernel of all the Scriptures.
He is the radiance of His glory, the exact expression of His nature, and He sustains all things by His powerful word. After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.
Take refuge my friend that the Jesus that I am talking about daily is the "true God."
One of my favorite phrases from Matthew Henry's commentary comes from the the knowledge of Jesus Christ is the very marrow and kernel of all the Scriptures.
He is the radiance of His glory, the exact expression of His nature, and He sustains all things by His powerful word. After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Philemon - A Plea for Onesimus
In Paul's letter to Philemon, he appeals to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus. Matthew Henry writes in his commentary, "Onesimus was the slave of Philemon: having run away from his master, he went to Rome, where he was converted to the Christian faith, by the word as set forth by Paul, who kept him till his conduct proved the truth and sincerity of his conversion. He wished to repair the injury he had done to his master, but fearing the punishment his offence deserved might be inflicted, he entreated the apostle to write to Philemon."
In respone, Paul appealed to Philemon "... accept him as you would me. And if he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it" (Philemon 1:17-19a HCSB).
Taking refuge in God is about trusting Him. As Martin Luther said "Even as Christ did for us with God the Father, thus Paul also does for Onesimus with Philemon." Christ accepted the debt for our sin and presented Himself to the Father as the payment for a debt that we could not pay.
In respone, Paul appealed to Philemon "... accept him as you would me. And if he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it" (Philemon 1:17-19a HCSB).
Taking refuge in God is about trusting Him. As Martin Luther said "Even as Christ did for us with God the Father, thus Paul also does for Onesimus with Philemon." Christ accepted the debt for our sin and presented Himself to the Father as the payment for a debt that we could not pay.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Titus 3 - God's Mercy
As Paul continues writing to Titus about the behavior of the believers, he once again gives us insight into the Father's heart. Titus 3:3-7 (HCSB)compares where we are coming from and where God wants us to be.
3 For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, captives of various passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another.
4 But when the goodness and love for man appeared from God our Savior,
5 He saved us — not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
6 This [Spirit] He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that having been justified by His grace, we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life.
Regardless of where we start from, we can take refuge that God loves us and is willing to save us, not because of what we have done, but because He has mercy.
I personally find this to be a wonderful passage because we see all parts of the Trinity working in our lives. God's love, Jesus's sacrifice providing justification and the Holy Spirt's regeneration and renewing of our spirit all work together to complete us as "heirs with the hope of eternal life." I know that Paul's description of sinful men in verse 3 is true in my life and I thank God that he had mercy on me.
Take Refuge in God's Mercy!
3 For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, captives of various passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another.
4 But when the goodness and love for man appeared from God our Savior,
5 He saved us — not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
6 This [Spirit] He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that having been justified by His grace, we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life.
Regardless of where we start from, we can take refuge that God loves us and is willing to save us, not because of what we have done, but because He has mercy.
I personally find this to be a wonderful passage because we see all parts of the Trinity working in our lives. God's love, Jesus's sacrifice providing justification and the Holy Spirt's regeneration and renewing of our spirit all work together to complete us as "heirs with the hope of eternal life." I know that Paul's description of sinful men in verse 3 is true in my life and I thank God that he had mercy on me.
Take Refuge in God's Mercy!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Titus 2 - He Gave Himself
Titus 2 provides excellent descriptions of how believers should behave. Whether they be older men, younger men, older women, younger women or slaves. All are given instruction on the traits that should be displayed "... so that God's message will not be slandered." (Titus 2:5b HCSB) It is apparent that the purpose of the instruction to Titus for the people of the church is to allow others to see God in them. Or, as it is written in the Message, "We don't want anyone looking down on God's Message because of their behavior."
But what is the message that God doesn't want slandered? Paul tells us in verse 14 (HCSB), "He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a special people, eager to do good works." God gave HIMSELF for us!!!!! We didn't deserve it. We shouldn't have expected it. We couldn't even imagine how He could do it, but God GAVE Himself FOR US!!!
Take Refuge!!!! God loves each of us so much that HE gave HIMSELF for us! If you haven't experienced the unconditional love of God, please find a pastor at a local church, or a friend who is a Christian and ask them to tell you about their relationship with the living God. If you can't find one, contact me here through this blog and I'll help you find someone. God sent is Son, to die for you and for me so that He could pay the price of our sins and we could be restored to a relationship with our loving Father. When you make that decision, to trust Jesus Christ as your saviour, then -- and only then -- will you truly understand what it is to take refuge in God.
But what is the message that God doesn't want slandered? Paul tells us in verse 14 (HCSB), "He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a special people, eager to do good works." God gave HIMSELF for us!!!!! We didn't deserve it. We shouldn't have expected it. We couldn't even imagine how He could do it, but God GAVE Himself FOR US!!!
Take Refuge!!!! God loves each of us so much that HE gave HIMSELF for us! If you haven't experienced the unconditional love of God, please find a pastor at a local church, or a friend who is a Christian and ask them to tell you about their relationship with the living God. If you can't find one, contact me here through this blog and I'll help you find someone. God sent is Son, to die for you and for me so that He could pay the price of our sins and we could be restored to a relationship with our loving Father. When you make that decision, to trust Jesus Christ as your saviour, then -- and only then -- will you truly understand what it is to take refuge in God.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Titus 1 - Being God's Manager
We started a 30-day challenge with the Men's group at my church this week. The challenge is to read a chapter a day and then text or email two accountability partners to confirm that you read your chapter.
The vision is from Isaiah 55:11, "...My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and will prosper in what I send it [to do]." As men study God's word, He will do mighty things through them.
Today I started with Titus 1. In keeping with the theme of this blog -- discovering how we can take refuge in God -- I find Paul's instructions to Titus very challenging. In Titus 1:7-9, Paul describes an overeseer as "God's manager" and his requirements are that he " must be blameless, not arrogant, not quick tempered, not addicted to wine, not a bully, not greedy for money, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, righteous, holy, self-controlled, holding to the faithful message as taught, so that he will be able both to encourage with sound teaching and to refute those who contradict it."
You may be asking, "How do you get 'take refuge' from that?" Imagine with me that you are working at your job for a manger described as "blameless, not arrogant, not quick tempered ... hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, ... self-controlled" Would you not enjoy working for that type of manager? What about living in a household with a person like this? We might describe this person as even tempered, reasonable, loving and even compassionate. Now take that same perception from work or home and apply it to who God wants to provide as an elder, overseer, leader in your church. We can take refuge, knowing that God's desire for those who would be a source of leaderhsip and guidance to the church are of a character that we as individuals would enjoy living and working with on a daily basis.
God loves us so much, that He not only gave His Son for us, He also provided instruction for every part of our life. Not only the character that we should display, but also the character of those who would lead us within our church. Take another look at the description of an overseer. Would you qualify? If not, I challenge you to ask God to lead you to someone who does. Once you have found that person, ask them to pray with you and even to mentor you as you grow in your faith and character.
Take refuge that God wants the best for you and wants you to be the best that you can be. Seek to grow in faith and character as you seek to be more like Christ every day.
The vision is from Isaiah 55:11, "...My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and will prosper in what I send it [to do]." As men study God's word, He will do mighty things through them.
Today I started with Titus 1. In keeping with the theme of this blog -- discovering how we can take refuge in God -- I find Paul's instructions to Titus very challenging. In Titus 1:7-9, Paul describes an overeseer as "God's manager" and his requirements are that he " must be blameless, not arrogant, not quick tempered, not addicted to wine, not a bully, not greedy for money, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, righteous, holy, self-controlled, holding to the faithful message as taught, so that he will be able both to encourage with sound teaching and to refute those who contradict it."
You may be asking, "How do you get 'take refuge' from that?" Imagine with me that you are working at your job for a manger described as "blameless, not arrogant, not quick tempered ... hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, ... self-controlled" Would you not enjoy working for that type of manager? What about living in a household with a person like this? We might describe this person as even tempered, reasonable, loving and even compassionate. Now take that same perception from work or home and apply it to who God wants to provide as an elder, overseer, leader in your church. We can take refuge, knowing that God's desire for those who would be a source of leaderhsip and guidance to the church are of a character that we as individuals would enjoy living and working with on a daily basis.
God loves us so much, that He not only gave His Son for us, He also provided instruction for every part of our life. Not only the character that we should display, but also the character of those who would lead us within our church. Take another look at the description of an overseer. Would you qualify? If not, I challenge you to ask God to lead you to someone who does. Once you have found that person, ask them to pray with you and even to mentor you as you grow in your faith and character.
Take refuge that God wants the best for you and wants you to be the best that you can be. Seek to grow in faith and character as you seek to be more like Christ every day.
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