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.
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