"Delight yourself in the Lord!"
-Psalm 37:4
"If there lurks in most modern minds the notion that to desire our own good and earnestly to hope for the enjoyment of it is a bad thing, I submit that this notion has crept in from Kant and the Stoics and is no part of the Christian faith. Indeed, if we consider the unblushing promises of reward and the staggering nature of the rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that our Lord finds our desires, not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased." -C.S. Lewis
May we come fully to the feast of loving God, craving, and receiving, the unspeakable joy of worshiping Him. We are commanded to "delight" in Him. Our love for Him must consume us, and in this burning we will find our greatest joy. Worship not as a duty, but as an expression of your emotions, not pretending to do Him some service, but humbly finding happiness in the glorifying of His name.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
The Crucifixion and the Sovereignty of God
"This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross." - Acts 2:23
The doctrine of God's Sovereignty, or His will and hand giving direction to everything, is perhaps the most strongly felt debate in Christendom. I myself have come from a strong opposition to this doctrine to a love of it and peaceful resting in it beyond my own understanding. Jonathan Edwards, the great eighteenth-century writer, pastor, and teacher, gives this account:
"From my childhood up, my mind had been full of objections against the doctrine of God's sovereignty, in choosing whom he would to eternal life, and rejecting whom he pleased... It used to appear like a horrible doctrine to me... but... now I saw further, and my reason apprehended the justice and reasonableness of it... and there has been a wonderful alteration in my mind with respect to the doctrine of God's sovereignty. I have often since had not only a conviction, but a delightful conviction. The doctrine has very often appeared exceeding pleasant, bright, and sweet. Absolute sovereignty is what I love to ascribe to God. But my first conviction was not so."
The most heinous sin ever committed was the crucifixion of our Lord Jesus. In the light of the crucifixion any other evil you may imagine pales into insignificance. And yet, before the dawn of time it was "God's set purpose and foreknowledge" which caused this event to be, and at the end of time the crucifixion will be the most glorious act for which we will praise Him. May you praise our sovereign God today for the glory of his power!
The doctrine of God's Sovereignty, or His will and hand giving direction to everything, is perhaps the most strongly felt debate in Christendom. I myself have come from a strong opposition to this doctrine to a love of it and peaceful resting in it beyond my own understanding. Jonathan Edwards, the great eighteenth-century writer, pastor, and teacher, gives this account:
"From my childhood up, my mind had been full of objections against the doctrine of God's sovereignty, in choosing whom he would to eternal life, and rejecting whom he pleased... It used to appear like a horrible doctrine to me... but... now I saw further, and my reason apprehended the justice and reasonableness of it... and there has been a wonderful alteration in my mind with respect to the doctrine of God's sovereignty. I have often since had not only a conviction, but a delightful conviction. The doctrine has very often appeared exceeding pleasant, bright, and sweet. Absolute sovereignty is what I love to ascribe to God. But my first conviction was not so."
The most heinous sin ever committed was the crucifixion of our Lord Jesus. In the light of the crucifixion any other evil you may imagine pales into insignificance. And yet, before the dawn of time it was "God's set purpose and foreknowledge" which caused this event to be, and at the end of time the crucifixion will be the most glorious act for which we will praise Him. May you praise our sovereign God today for the glory of his power!
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Faith Stimulus
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." -Matthew 6:19-21
Most of us will soon receive a check in the mail from the U.S. government. A lot of people are already planning how they will spend it, and some have even already spent it! The great majority are using that money to buy something they’ve been wanting… a new TV, some home improvements, exercise equipment… the list is endless. Whatever they may buy, I confidently assume that 99% of people are spending that money on their own wants and desires, perhaps masked thinly as “needs.” Few of us actually need this unexpected windfall to meet regular expenses or necessary emergencies.
Most of us will soon receive a check in the mail from the U.S. government. A lot of people are already planning how they will spend it, and some have even already spent it! The great majority are using that money to buy something they’ve been wanting… a new TV, some home improvements, exercise equipment… the list is endless. Whatever they may buy, I confidently assume that 99% of people are spending that money on their own wants and desires, perhaps masked thinly as “needs.” Few of us actually need this unexpected windfall to meet regular expenses or necessary emergencies.
This is an opportunity for you to show your freedom from the love of money and materialism. I have been thinking of the people who will read this, and how each one of you will react. If you have a platform, a pulpit, or a blog, (and I know some of you do) I ask you to encourage others as well. Give glory to God!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
It is Finished
"When He had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed His head and gave up His spirit." -John 19:30
I have recently been reading "Spiritual Secret of Hudson Taylor," a biography of the great missionary to China. In the book it relates how he picked up a gospel tract for entertainent, planning to read the "story" and skip the "sermon," and was struck by the words "It is finished."
"What was finished?'"
And at once I replied, "A full and perfect atonement and satisfaction for sin. The debt was paid for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world."
Then came the further thought, "If the whole work was finished and the whole debt paid, what is there left for me to do?"
This week at church we heard a message which meshed perfectly with this. The pastor spoke on "Religion versus the Gospel." He emphasized that all of the things that we and other people do, many of them very "good" things, are not a part of the Good News that Jesus Christ paid the price and offered forgiveness. We cannot work our way into heaven, or into any merit with God. There is nothing left for us to do!
Throughout Jesus ministry in Israel He blasted the religious fervor of the Jews, condemning their public prayers, their scrupulous tithing, and their carefully preserved cleanliness. In your church and life would He find the same things to condemn? I think all of us, especially those who have grown up in the church, demand of ourselves certain good works. The insidious idea that we are "doing something for God," and therefore promoting ourselves, sneaks in so easily.
Remember today that in Christ "It is finished!" There is nothing left for you to do! Your sins are forgiven! It should be a natural response to this incomprehensible mercy to worship and love your great Forgiver with the utmost of your life and being. But this is always and only thanks to Him, and never merit with Him. Live in the freedom of accepting His payment for sins, and praise Him!
I have recently been reading "Spiritual Secret of Hudson Taylor," a biography of the great missionary to China. In the book it relates how he picked up a gospel tract for entertainent, planning to read the "story" and skip the "sermon," and was struck by the words "It is finished."
"What was finished?'"
And at once I replied, "A full and perfect atonement and satisfaction for sin. The debt was paid for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world."
Then came the further thought, "If the whole work was finished and the whole debt paid, what is there left for me to do?"
This week at church we heard a message which meshed perfectly with this. The pastor spoke on "Religion versus the Gospel." He emphasized that all of the things that we and other people do, many of them very "good" things, are not a part of the Good News that Jesus Christ paid the price and offered forgiveness. We cannot work our way into heaven, or into any merit with God. There is nothing left for us to do!
Throughout Jesus ministry in Israel He blasted the religious fervor of the Jews, condemning their public prayers, their scrupulous tithing, and their carefully preserved cleanliness. In your church and life would He find the same things to condemn? I think all of us, especially those who have grown up in the church, demand of ourselves certain good works. The insidious idea that we are "doing something for God," and therefore promoting ourselves, sneaks in so easily.
Remember today that in Christ "It is finished!" There is nothing left for you to do! Your sins are forgiven! It should be a natural response to this incomprehensible mercy to worship and love your great Forgiver with the utmost of your life and being. But this is always and only thanks to Him, and never merit with Him. Live in the freedom of accepting His payment for sins, and praise Him!
Monday, April 14, 2008
He Will be Praised!
"...and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father..." -Philippians 2:11
"...if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out..." -Luke 19:40
I am not typically a television watcher, but for the last few weeks Sarah and I have spent a few hours each week watching a show that I'm sure you've heard of, even if you don't have a television. We watch American Idol.
This show has the largest viewing audience of any show on earth. It has been duplicated in many countries worldwide. It is at this time the ultimate that Hollywood has to offer. The name is perfect for the show... and frightening in its boldness. If you are one of the few who don't know, the show is an open competition for a music recording contract and instant worldwide fame. From thousands of hopefuls they narrow the field until the final dozen are household names. Although one person wins it all, the show is such a phenomenal hit that the top few contenders lives are changed forever.
But I'm not here to promote a television show. Last week they aired a special edition of the show called "Idol Gives Back." The show was funded by corporate giants such as Ford Motors and Apple/Mac electronics. I didn't count, but I would guess that almost a hundred celebrities made guest appearances on the show... from famous actors to rock stars to presidential candidates. They were all there to ask people to give to charities... and the works of many of these charities are very praiseworthy.
I watched the show with very mixed feelings, and I have been thinking about it ever since. When I think of the rich and famous of Hollywood, I don't imagine that they are anything like what a Christian should be like. I don't look to the stars of television to give me an example to follow. But during this show, they were doing just that. We think that many of them are morally bankrupt, and yet they are doing the feeding of the hungry and the giving to the poor that the hands of Jesus should be doing.
At the end of the show something happened that jarred me to the core. On this show, of all shows, they closed with the well known church hymn which includes the following lines:
"...shout to the Lord all the earth let us sing,
Glory and majesty, praise to the King,
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar at the sound of Your Name!"
As the song was broadcast worldwide I sat in wonder and conviction. It seemed to me that the message was clear... God will do His work, and He will use any instrument He chooses. He does not depend on me or the church for His glory, but is glorified by creation and even by Hollywood!
Praise Him today!
"...if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out..." -Luke 19:40
I am not typically a television watcher, but for the last few weeks Sarah and I have spent a few hours each week watching a show that I'm sure you've heard of, even if you don't have a television. We watch American Idol.
This show has the largest viewing audience of any show on earth. It has been duplicated in many countries worldwide. It is at this time the ultimate that Hollywood has to offer. The name is perfect for the show... and frightening in its boldness. If you are one of the few who don't know, the show is an open competition for a music recording contract and instant worldwide fame. From thousands of hopefuls they narrow the field until the final dozen are household names. Although one person wins it all, the show is such a phenomenal hit that the top few contenders lives are changed forever.
But I'm not here to promote a television show. Last week they aired a special edition of the show called "Idol Gives Back." The show was funded by corporate giants such as Ford Motors and Apple/Mac electronics. I didn't count, but I would guess that almost a hundred celebrities made guest appearances on the show... from famous actors to rock stars to presidential candidates. They were all there to ask people to give to charities... and the works of many of these charities are very praiseworthy.
I watched the show with very mixed feelings, and I have been thinking about it ever since. When I think of the rich and famous of Hollywood, I don't imagine that they are anything like what a Christian should be like. I don't look to the stars of television to give me an example to follow. But during this show, they were doing just that. We think that many of them are morally bankrupt, and yet they are doing the feeding of the hungry and the giving to the poor that the hands of Jesus should be doing.
At the end of the show something happened that jarred me to the core. On this show, of all shows, they closed with the well known church hymn which includes the following lines:
"...shout to the Lord all the earth let us sing,
Glory and majesty, praise to the King,
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar at the sound of Your Name!"
As the song was broadcast worldwide I sat in wonder and conviction. It seemed to me that the message was clear... God will do His work, and He will use any instrument He chooses. He does not depend on me or the church for His glory, but is glorified by creation and even by Hollywood!
Praise Him today!
Monday, April 7, 2008
Getting Out of Bed in the Morning
"Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."' -Matthew 22:37-40
Almost anyone who has grown up "religious," whether they be Mormon, Muslim, or Christian, has been indoctrinated with a set of rules. Some of these rules may be stated openly, such as a prohibition against alcohol, while others may be more subtle, such as not fraternizing with those who hold different beliefs.
Whatever the rules may be, they are without exception oppressive. They are also usually the framework within which someone defines themselves as a believer in their religion. We would assume that someone who prays toward the east on a set schedule is either a Muslim or a Jew. In the same way, the believer who does the praying is self-defined by their actions. A Mormon would feel unorthodox for failing to venerate Joseph Smith; an Atheist must remain true to form and dogmatically state that the universe evolved by chance, no matter what intricate pattern they may see in nature; and a Christian should be at a church service every Sunday, even if they sleep through the service. Whether motivated by guilt or self-righteousness, rigidly following the rules is deemed "good enough."
As a young follower of Christ, I was overwhelmed by the choices in life. How could I possibly know what rule to follow in each and every situation? Would there not be times when one rule would conflict with another? How could I possibly know if it was right or not to simply get out of bed in the morning? After all, I may fall into sin as soon as my feet touched the floor, and there was no law to dictate if it was right to take that risk or not. The "Big Ten" commandments were a start, but where should I stop? I am sure I was far from alone in this struggle.
I thank my Lord that He has provided the answer to this question, and that he opened my eyes to it. Our actions, whatever they may be, must be motivated by love... Love for God first of all and love for the people we come into contact with secondly. There are times when two identical actions may be praiseworthy or sinful, simply based on their motivation. It may be love for God and others that motivates us to give a large amount of money to a charity. This would be an action in accord with the the two overarching commandments and therefore with all others. However, it would be a sin to give with the motivation of puffing up ego and self-righteousness, even if the giving is done anonymously.
When you get out of bed in the morning, ask yourself why you are getting out of bed. Evaluate all of your actions, no matter how small. Are you oppressed by rules, or freed by love? Find out what drives you. Be driven by love and you need never fear going astray.
Almost anyone who has grown up "religious," whether they be Mormon, Muslim, or Christian, has been indoctrinated with a set of rules. Some of these rules may be stated openly, such as a prohibition against alcohol, while others may be more subtle, such as not fraternizing with those who hold different beliefs.
Whatever the rules may be, they are without exception oppressive. They are also usually the framework within which someone defines themselves as a believer in their religion. We would assume that someone who prays toward the east on a set schedule is either a Muslim or a Jew. In the same way, the believer who does the praying is self-defined by their actions. A Mormon would feel unorthodox for failing to venerate Joseph Smith; an Atheist must remain true to form and dogmatically state that the universe evolved by chance, no matter what intricate pattern they may see in nature; and a Christian should be at a church service every Sunday, even if they sleep through the service. Whether motivated by guilt or self-righteousness, rigidly following the rules is deemed "good enough."
As a young follower of Christ, I was overwhelmed by the choices in life. How could I possibly know what rule to follow in each and every situation? Would there not be times when one rule would conflict with another? How could I possibly know if it was right or not to simply get out of bed in the morning? After all, I may fall into sin as soon as my feet touched the floor, and there was no law to dictate if it was right to take that risk or not. The "Big Ten" commandments were a start, but where should I stop? I am sure I was far from alone in this struggle.
I thank my Lord that He has provided the answer to this question, and that he opened my eyes to it. Our actions, whatever they may be, must be motivated by love... Love for God first of all and love for the people we come into contact with secondly. There are times when two identical actions may be praiseworthy or sinful, simply based on their motivation. It may be love for God and others that motivates us to give a large amount of money to a charity. This would be an action in accord with the the two overarching commandments and therefore with all others. However, it would be a sin to give with the motivation of puffing up ego and self-righteousness, even if the giving is done anonymously.
When you get out of bed in the morning, ask yourself why you are getting out of bed. Evaluate all of your actions, no matter how small. Are you oppressed by rules, or freed by love? Find out what drives you. Be driven by love and you need never fear going astray.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Creator of the Destroyer
"See, it is I who created the blacksmith who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its work. And it is I who have created the destroyer to work havoc. No weapon forged against you will prevail..."
-Isaiah 54:16-17a
I have heard the second part of this section quoted in sermons and religious songs for years, but only tonight, by mere chance, did the first verse strike me. When read together, as above, it is hard to imagine how this should have happened, as the first part seems so integral to the second. The Lamb who was pierced is also the very Creator of the blacksmith who forged the spearhead which was plunged into His side! He states in no uncertain terms that He has "created the destroyer."
The double meaning here is both so subtle and yet it falls like a hammer-blow. The heavenly blacksmith forms His own weapons. Nothing so mean as steel is beaten on His anvil, but he forges flesh and blood, mind and spirit to form "a weapon fit for its work." What a fearful picture is a master blacksmith, fiery-eyed, sinewy shoulders bulging, his hammer ringing as sparks fly, forging the weapons of destruction! How much more fearful is the God who created the stars in this role! Who could stand before His weapons?
And yet we are given hope. Although no human could stand before these destroyers, especially designed to work havoc, the One who made them is also the One who promises "No weapon forged against you will prevail..."
Take comfort when the wars of this world seem overwhelming. When the mind-blowing power of the weapons of earth shakes you, remember that the One who has called you "friend" is the Creator of all.
-Isaiah 54:16-17a
I have heard the second part of this section quoted in sermons and religious songs for years, but only tonight, by mere chance, did the first verse strike me. When read together, as above, it is hard to imagine how this should have happened, as the first part seems so integral to the second. The Lamb who was pierced is also the very Creator of the blacksmith who forged the spearhead which was plunged into His side! He states in no uncertain terms that He has "created the destroyer."
The double meaning here is both so subtle and yet it falls like a hammer-blow. The heavenly blacksmith forms His own weapons. Nothing so mean as steel is beaten on His anvil, but he forges flesh and blood, mind and spirit to form "a weapon fit for its work." What a fearful picture is a master blacksmith, fiery-eyed, sinewy shoulders bulging, his hammer ringing as sparks fly, forging the weapons of destruction! How much more fearful is the God who created the stars in this role! Who could stand before His weapons?
And yet we are given hope. Although no human could stand before these destroyers, especially designed to work havoc, the One who made them is also the One who promises "No weapon forged against you will prevail..."
Take comfort when the wars of this world seem overwhelming. When the mind-blowing power of the weapons of earth shakes you, remember that the One who has called you "friend" is the Creator of all.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Our Only Comfort
"Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge?" -Job 38:2
"Would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself?" -Job 40:8
One of the most common arguments I have heard for both the non-existence of God and for His lack of sovereign control over events is the evils that happen in the world. Young lives are tragically ended, wars and disease rage over the earth, and wicked men prosper.
Last night Sarah and I watched the conclusion of the movie version of Leo Tolstoy's great work "War and Peace." Toward the end Pierre is speaking with his friend Natasha. She has suffered the loss of family fortune, and the loss of both her younger brother and her beloved fiance. War has ravaged their lands. Pierre has returned from being unjustly imprisoned, nearly executed, and marched through the freezing wilderness, watching his fellow prisoners dying all around him. And yet Pierre has found an inner peace beyond any he had known before. Through all of this, he makes the statement (paraphrase) "God is in control of all these things."
"But why[do they happen]?" returns Natasha, to which Pierre gives the answer, "I do not know, but I do know that if it were not so [that God were in control], life would be unbearable."
Job suffered even greater and real loss. Every material possession, his family, and even his health deserted him. In the depths of despair he asks God why, but he never gets a direct answer to his question. Instead he is made to understand the majesty and power of God, and in the end he has faith, and is comforted.
When we don't understand we question God. Our pride pits our intellect against His, imagining that we have a right to an explanation that we could never understand. When we suffer and see evil, we want answers, but what we really need is faith that God is in control, which will bring comfort beyond any explanation.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts." -Isaiah 55:9
"Would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself?" -Job 40:8
One of the most common arguments I have heard for both the non-existence of God and for His lack of sovereign control over events is the evils that happen in the world. Young lives are tragically ended, wars and disease rage over the earth, and wicked men prosper.
Last night Sarah and I watched the conclusion of the movie version of Leo Tolstoy's great work "War and Peace." Toward the end Pierre is speaking with his friend Natasha. She has suffered the loss of family fortune, and the loss of both her younger brother and her beloved fiance. War has ravaged their lands. Pierre has returned from being unjustly imprisoned, nearly executed, and marched through the freezing wilderness, watching his fellow prisoners dying all around him. And yet Pierre has found an inner peace beyond any he had known before. Through all of this, he makes the statement (paraphrase) "God is in control of all these things."
"But why[do they happen]?" returns Natasha, to which Pierre gives the answer, "I do not know, but I do know that if it were not so [that God were in control], life would be unbearable."
Job suffered even greater and real loss. Every material possession, his family, and even his health deserted him. In the depths of despair he asks God why, but he never gets a direct answer to his question. Instead he is made to understand the majesty and power of God, and in the end he has faith, and is comforted.
When we don't understand we question God. Our pride pits our intellect against His, imagining that we have a right to an explanation that we could never understand. When we suffer and see evil, we want answers, but what we really need is faith that God is in control, which will bring comfort beyond any explanation.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts." -Isaiah 55:9
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Temptation
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. [Then] the tempter came to him....
-Matthew 4:1-3a
When the sun is shining and you are feeling full of energy, it is easy to resist temptation. Although this is also the time when it is easy to become complacent, realizing before it is too late is a relatively easy cure. However, when you are tired, under pressure, or hungry it seems excusable to be irritable, give in to gluttony, or slip into any other sin.
Watching my toddler daughter makes it easy to see this trait in human nature. Although she will happily obey, put her toys away, or have her teeth brushed when she is feeling fine, she becomes obstinate, whiny, or brazenly disobedient if she is hungry, overly tired, or ill. She is so predictable in this that we can use her attitude as a barometer of her physical well-being. Although we understand this link, it is no more right for her to disobey when she is hungry than when she is not. It is still disobedience.
It is certainly true that it is more difficult to do what is right when our physical circumstances are poor. God knows this as well, and I believe that is why Jesus, our example, was tempted after being in the desert without food for forty days and nights! Many of us find ourselves in a foul temper, completely unconcerned with the glory of God, if deprived of a meal for only several hours. The Judge of the universe will not overlook a sin "because we weren't feeling well."
Be on your guard, especially during your low times; and remember, "with temptation will also [be a] way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." -1 Cor. 10:13
-Matthew 4:1-3a
When the sun is shining and you are feeling full of energy, it is easy to resist temptation. Although this is also the time when it is easy to become complacent, realizing before it is too late is a relatively easy cure. However, when you are tired, under pressure, or hungry it seems excusable to be irritable, give in to gluttony, or slip into any other sin.
Watching my toddler daughter makes it easy to see this trait in human nature. Although she will happily obey, put her toys away, or have her teeth brushed when she is feeling fine, she becomes obstinate, whiny, or brazenly disobedient if she is hungry, overly tired, or ill. She is so predictable in this that we can use her attitude as a barometer of her physical well-being. Although we understand this link, it is no more right for her to disobey when she is hungry than when she is not. It is still disobedience.
It is certainly true that it is more difficult to do what is right when our physical circumstances are poor. God knows this as well, and I believe that is why Jesus, our example, was tempted after being in the desert without food for forty days and nights! Many of us find ourselves in a foul temper, completely unconcerned with the glory of God, if deprived of a meal for only several hours. The Judge of the universe will not overlook a sin "because we weren't feeling well."
Be on your guard, especially during your low times; and remember, "with temptation will also [be a] way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." -1 Cor. 10:13
Saturday, March 15, 2008
The Calling of Every Christian
"Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven."
-Matthew 10:32
Every one of us is called to spend our time on earth as a witness to God's glory. You may be thinking, "I am not a preacher or evangelist, so I just live a good life, and that is my witness." Without a doubt we are to live a life which is a witness to the changing power of Christ. But if we are not vocal and obvious with a different lifestyle than just a "good" person, what kind of a witness will we be?
I challenge you to think, how many times have you been identified as a "Christian" recently? How many people know how you live and assume that you are different? More importantly, how many people have you made a conscious effort to witness to in the last year? Have you invited anyone to church? Have you told someone you will pray for them, and done it? Have you asked a co-worker if they were a Christian, or what they think of Jesus? Perhaps you have brought glory to our Lord by hospitality and witness in your home? Have you ever thought it possible that you would be disciplined at work because you are witnessing to others there?
Whatever method you use, make it your goal to share the gospel. Make your life such an obvious example of "different" that you are asked why, but love others enough to share without them asking. Do you want Christ to be even the least bit ashamed of you before His Father? Are you ashamed of Him?
-Matthew 10:32
Every one of us is called to spend our time on earth as a witness to God's glory. You may be thinking, "I am not a preacher or evangelist, so I just live a good life, and that is my witness." Without a doubt we are to live a life which is a witness to the changing power of Christ. But if we are not vocal and obvious with a different lifestyle than just a "good" person, what kind of a witness will we be?
I challenge you to think, how many times have you been identified as a "Christian" recently? How many people know how you live and assume that you are different? More importantly, how many people have you made a conscious effort to witness to in the last year? Have you invited anyone to church? Have you told someone you will pray for them, and done it? Have you asked a co-worker if they were a Christian, or what they think of Jesus? Perhaps you have brought glory to our Lord by hospitality and witness in your home? Have you ever thought it possible that you would be disciplined at work because you are witnessing to others there?
Whatever method you use, make it your goal to share the gospel. Make your life such an obvious example of "different" that you are asked why, but love others enough to share without them asking. Do you want Christ to be even the least bit ashamed of you before His Father? Are you ashamed of Him?
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Arrogance of Worry
"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"
-Matthew 6:27
"Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."
-James 4:15
Our culture is overwhelmed with insurance. We have insurance for everything from hurricanes to tooth decay. We are even insured against death! The cost of insurance has become so high that many can not afford it, and yet we pay thousands of dollars for protection against possibilites which, should they occur, would cost only hundreds to offset. In short, we are addicted to the illusion of security.
It is important to realize that every breath we breathe, whether in perfect health, or on our deathbeds, is a gift from God. Your next breath may be your last, although you are in the prime of life. On the other hand, you may find yourself next to death, and yet recover to live many more years. You may be bankrupt today, and tomorrow find wealth in an unexpected windfall. Your drive to the grocery store may prove fatal, while God's hand holds in perfect safety a soldier on the front lines.
With these things in mind, we must remember that all circumstances and actions are in God's hands. Do you worry? All such fear is a lack of trust in the love of His controlling hand and pride in our own impotent abilities.
I encourage you to read the rest of Matthew 6:25-34, and learn that our only true insurance is to seek God's kingdom first.
-Matthew 6:27
"Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."
-James 4:15
Our culture is overwhelmed with insurance. We have insurance for everything from hurricanes to tooth decay. We are even insured against death! The cost of insurance has become so high that many can not afford it, and yet we pay thousands of dollars for protection against possibilites which, should they occur, would cost only hundreds to offset. In short, we are addicted to the illusion of security.
It is important to realize that every breath we breathe, whether in perfect health, or on our deathbeds, is a gift from God. Your next breath may be your last, although you are in the prime of life. On the other hand, you may find yourself next to death, and yet recover to live many more years. You may be bankrupt today, and tomorrow find wealth in an unexpected windfall. Your drive to the grocery store may prove fatal, while God's hand holds in perfect safety a soldier on the front lines.
With these things in mind, we must remember that all circumstances and actions are in God's hands. Do you worry? All such fear is a lack of trust in the love of His controlling hand and pride in our own impotent abilities.
I encourage you to read the rest of Matthew 6:25-34, and learn that our only true insurance is to seek God's kingdom first.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Visiting Churches
"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
-John 13:35
We moved recently, and spent several months visiting churches, looking for a new place to call home. One thing that really turned me off to some of the churches we visited was not what happened during the service so much as what happened before and after the service.
I overheard people talking before the service, obviously regular attendees. However, even from the little bit that I heard it was obvious that they were not connected. They asked each other banal questions about work, questions more properly asked when meeting someone for the first or second time. They most likely knew a lot more about their co-workers than about their brothers in the church.
As I walked through some church entryways I would be greeted by a glazed, "Good morning, how are you?" It was often obvious that the questioner was unsure if I were a new visitor or a long-time member. Then, if I were to reply with, "rather tired, it's been a long week," I would hear in reply a muttered "fine" in response to a question I was expected to, but had not asked. Usually the person would vanish without breaking stride on some much more important business than getting to know me.
A third turn-off was the after-service rush. The second the closing "amen" was uttered the entire congregation would leap from their seats, rushing to get out the door, avoiding any direct eye-contact for fear of having to talk to someone. Within minutes, the parking lot would be empty, and the church would be left with one or two of the most active church members talking with the pastor.
I fully realize that I am being quite harsh. I am critically emphasizing things which I noticed as a visitor. The faults I'm pointing out were exceptions rather than the rule, and I'm sure there is a lot of background that I don't know, which would explain these behaviors. So I am sorry for appearing to be negative.
I want to encourage all of us (myself included) to not be like this, even as only a surface appearance. If I were a non-Christian, I would certainly be critical or what I saw. I have found myself doing these things at times, and am embarrassed.
Several churches that we have visited were exactly the opposite. It was impossible to get in the door without a friendly member asking a lot of questions. Then there was a stretch after the final prayer, followed by hours of conversation, and likely invitations for visiting during the afternoon or following week.
Let us be like this, known by our love for our brothers and sisters in the church in ever deepening ways.
-John 13:35
We moved recently, and spent several months visiting churches, looking for a new place to call home. One thing that really turned me off to some of the churches we visited was not what happened during the service so much as what happened before and after the service.
I overheard people talking before the service, obviously regular attendees. However, even from the little bit that I heard it was obvious that they were not connected. They asked each other banal questions about work, questions more properly asked when meeting someone for the first or second time. They most likely knew a lot more about their co-workers than about their brothers in the church.
As I walked through some church entryways I would be greeted by a glazed, "Good morning, how are you?" It was often obvious that the questioner was unsure if I were a new visitor or a long-time member. Then, if I were to reply with, "rather tired, it's been a long week," I would hear in reply a muttered "fine" in response to a question I was expected to, but had not asked. Usually the person would vanish without breaking stride on some much more important business than getting to know me.
A third turn-off was the after-service rush. The second the closing "amen" was uttered the entire congregation would leap from their seats, rushing to get out the door, avoiding any direct eye-contact for fear of having to talk to someone. Within minutes, the parking lot would be empty, and the church would be left with one or two of the most active church members talking with the pastor.
I fully realize that I am being quite harsh. I am critically emphasizing things which I noticed as a visitor. The faults I'm pointing out were exceptions rather than the rule, and I'm sure there is a lot of background that I don't know, which would explain these behaviors. So I am sorry for appearing to be negative.
I want to encourage all of us (myself included) to not be like this, even as only a surface appearance. If I were a non-Christian, I would certainly be critical or what I saw. I have found myself doing these things at times, and am embarrassed.
Several churches that we have visited were exactly the opposite. It was impossible to get in the door without a friendly member asking a lot of questions. Then there was a stretch after the final prayer, followed by hours of conversation, and likely invitations for visiting during the afternoon or following week.
Let us be like this, known by our love for our brothers and sisters in the church in ever deepening ways.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
God's Glory in the Mundane
"Therefore whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."
-1 Corinthians 10:31
Although you've likely heard it thousands of times, and probably memorized it as a child, when was the last time you stopped to think about this verse? The outward simplicity of the phrase belies the profound truth so wisely condensed.
On the surface, it would be easy to trim off all but the last part of this verse, and call it complete... "do all for the glory of God." Is every action you do for the glory of God?
But so much more emphasis is included with the first part of the verse. Paul wrote that "...whether you eat or drink..." Now there is a strange phrase! He did not say "whether you pray or sing," or "whether you are preaching or giving thanks." No, he uses something so mundane that it is as essential to life as breathing! I believe that the point he is making is this; even in the mundane tasks of life, brushing your teeth, eating a bowl of cereal, or driving to the store, make your motive bringing glory to God!
There is another way to put it, by rephrasing negatively. "Do not do anything, not even the most commonplace task (let alone the more purposeful ones), if you are not doing it for God's glory." If you realize that something you are doing cannot be done with thanks to God, and as a witness to His greatness, then it is most likely nothing less than a sin.
So as you go about your tasks today; checking e-mail, changing a diaper, walking the dog, or talking with a co-worker, do it all with the purpose of giving God glory.
-1 Corinthians 10:31
Although you've likely heard it thousands of times, and probably memorized it as a child, when was the last time you stopped to think about this verse? The outward simplicity of the phrase belies the profound truth so wisely condensed.
On the surface, it would be easy to trim off all but the last part of this verse, and call it complete... "do all for the glory of God." Is every action you do for the glory of God?
But so much more emphasis is included with the first part of the verse. Paul wrote that "...whether you eat or drink..." Now there is a strange phrase! He did not say "whether you pray or sing," or "whether you are preaching or giving thanks." No, he uses something so mundane that it is as essential to life as breathing! I believe that the point he is making is this; even in the mundane tasks of life, brushing your teeth, eating a bowl of cereal, or driving to the store, make your motive bringing glory to God!
There is another way to put it, by rephrasing negatively. "Do not do anything, not even the most commonplace task (let alone the more purposeful ones), if you are not doing it for God's glory." If you realize that something you are doing cannot be done with thanks to God, and as a witness to His greatness, then it is most likely nothing less than a sin.
So as you go about your tasks today; checking e-mail, changing a diaper, walking the dog, or talking with a co-worker, do it all with the purpose of giving God glory.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Longing for Heaven
"...Day and night they never stop saying: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.'
And whenever the living creatures give glory, honor, and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:
'You are worthy , our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.'"
-Revelation 4:8b-11
How do you imagine heaven?
I have met several honest people who have said to me something like this:
"I don't want to go to heaven... who wants to float around on clouds and play harps all day? All of my friends will be in hell, so that's where I want to be too."
There are others I have met who pitch heaven like this:
"Everything will be made of gold, and we will all have mansions. There will be snowboarding and surfing and gardening and incredible food and anything that you could ever want! Who wouldn't want to go there?"
Both of these perspectives contain a grain of truth, and both of them are lethal. The incredible picture drawn in Revelation is not of flushed cherubs playing harps, nor of retired saints enjoying croquet. No, the image we see is of a throne surrounded by smoke and thunder and lightning, blazing spirits, and fearsome creatures worshiping constantly. We see the greatest of saints on their faces before the throne, considering crowns encrusted with otherworldly riches as nothing before the worth of the one who sits on it.
Only those who desire God more than anything else will see His awesome majesty. What is your deepest desire?
And whenever the living creatures give glory, honor, and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:
'You are worthy , our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.'"
-Revelation 4:8b-11
How do you imagine heaven?
I have met several honest people who have said to me something like this:
"I don't want to go to heaven... who wants to float around on clouds and play harps all day? All of my friends will be in hell, so that's where I want to be too."
There are others I have met who pitch heaven like this:
"Everything will be made of gold, and we will all have mansions. There will be snowboarding and surfing and gardening and incredible food and anything that you could ever want! Who wouldn't want to go there?"
Both of these perspectives contain a grain of truth, and both of them are lethal. The incredible picture drawn in Revelation is not of flushed cherubs playing harps, nor of retired saints enjoying croquet. No, the image we see is of a throne surrounded by smoke and thunder and lightning, blazing spirits, and fearsome creatures worshiping constantly. We see the greatest of saints on their faces before the throne, considering crowns encrusted with otherworldly riches as nothing before the worth of the one who sits on it.
Only those who desire God more than anything else will see His awesome majesty. What is your deepest desire?
Saturday, March 8, 2008
The Widows Garden
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
-James 1:27
Several months ago we visited the church my parents attend. A missionary family to Uganda, the Probsts, were sharing their experiences from the field. Although many things about the day to day grit of their lives were striking, I was most challenged by the following story:
The fledgling church was made up mostly of recent converts. I don't recall all of the details clearly, but it seems that they had been given a very nice building to hold their services in. When they had made the decision to follow Christ rather than the "big man" in the church, they had lost the building, and been forced to meet under a tree. Passersby scoffed at the fools for losing their beautiful building.
The missionaries were able to purchase a parcel of land to give to the church, but made the decision that the Ugandans would have to build on the land with their own resources. Although they badly needed a building of some kind for their meetings, the first thing that they did was to cultivate a garden on the land. They called it the widows garden, and gave what grew there to the widows and orphans.
I cannot imagine that the scoffers had a lot to say after they started their garden. Here were people who cared enough about others that their first thought was not for their own real need, but for the need of the widows, who were truly destitute. Later on they built a building in their own style and with what they had. It was nothing like the building they had given up, but the church that meets there knows what is truly important.
I can't imagine tilling up the manicured front lawns of many of the churches here to plant gardens. In our culture that may not be a practical thing to do... but perhaps it should be something we would be willing to do.
-James 1:27
Several months ago we visited the church my parents attend. A missionary family to Uganda, the Probsts, were sharing their experiences from the field. Although many things about the day to day grit of their lives were striking, I was most challenged by the following story:
The fledgling church was made up mostly of recent converts. I don't recall all of the details clearly, but it seems that they had been given a very nice building to hold their services in. When they had made the decision to follow Christ rather than the "big man" in the church, they had lost the building, and been forced to meet under a tree. Passersby scoffed at the fools for losing their beautiful building.
The missionaries were able to purchase a parcel of land to give to the church, but made the decision that the Ugandans would have to build on the land with their own resources. Although they badly needed a building of some kind for their meetings, the first thing that they did was to cultivate a garden on the land. They called it the widows garden, and gave what grew there to the widows and orphans.
I cannot imagine that the scoffers had a lot to say after they started their garden. Here were people who cared enough about others that their first thought was not for their own real need, but for the need of the widows, who were truly destitute. Later on they built a building in their own style and with what they had. It was nothing like the building they had given up, but the church that meets there knows what is truly important.
I can't imagine tilling up the manicured front lawns of many of the churches here to plant gardens. In our culture that may not be a practical thing to do... but perhaps it should be something we would be willing to do.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Which Jesus do you follow?
"...He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces; he was despised, and we esteemed him not."
-Isaiah 53:2(b)-3
Tonight I listened to Todd Agnew's CD, Reflection of Something. His words really hit home for me. Here are some excerpts:
"Which Jesus do you follow?
Which Jesus do you serve?"
"'Cause my Jesus bled and died
He spent his time with thieves and sluts and liars.
He loved the poor and accosted the comfortable
So which one do you want to be?"
"Cause my Jesus would never be accepted in my church,
The blood and dirt on his feet might stain the carpet.
But He reaches for the hurting and despises the proud
I think He'd prefer Beale Street to the stained glass crowd"
"I want to be like my Jesus."
Have we been hiding our faces from the real Jesus? I challenge you to look at these words again and think about them today and the next time you walk into your church.
-Isaiah 53:2(b)-3
Tonight I listened to Todd Agnew's CD, Reflection of Something. His words really hit home for me. Here are some excerpts:
"Which Jesus do you follow?
Which Jesus do you serve?"
"'Cause my Jesus bled and died
He spent his time with thieves and sluts and liars.
He loved the poor and accosted the comfortable
So which one do you want to be?"
"Cause my Jesus would never be accepted in my church,
The blood and dirt on his feet might stain the carpet.
But He reaches for the hurting and despises the proud
I think He'd prefer Beale Street to the stained glass crowd"
"I want to be like my Jesus."
Have we been hiding our faces from the real Jesus? I challenge you to look at these words again and think about them today and the next time you walk into your church.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
don't waste your life
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. -Matthew 6:19-21
I am always inspired by John Piper, and especially enjoy listening to his sermons and reading the blog linked to his ministry, Desiring God. I've recently been reading his book, don't waste your life. The back of the book includes this quote:
"I will tell you what a tragedy is. I will show you how to waste your life. Consider this story from the February 1998 Reader's Digest: A couple 'took early retirement from their jobs in the Northeast five years ago when he was 59 and she was 51. Now they live in Punta Gorda, Florida, where they cruise on their 30-foot trawler, play softball, and collect shells...' Picture them before Christ at the great day of judgment: 'Look, Lord. See my shells.' That is a tragedy."
I will not presume to add much to Piper's words, but consider this as well; this tragedy is occurring all around us on a more common scale. Those who spend their free time, especially the golden years of retirement on trifles and hobbies will most often end up with nothing but dusty boxes full of unfinished projects of which their children will have to dispose. Even those whose brilliant projects shine on the covers of magazines will know on their deathbeds that those countless hours were wasted.
Think about this as you plan your upcoming weekend. I am guilty of wasting hours and probably years working on things which no one in their right mind would describe as "treasures," while I let the opportunity to build real treasures slip away. Dear Lord, please forgive me, and help me not to waste another minute.
I am always inspired by John Piper, and especially enjoy listening to his sermons and reading the blog linked to his ministry, Desiring God. I've recently been reading his book, don't waste your life. The back of the book includes this quote:
"I will tell you what a tragedy is. I will show you how to waste your life. Consider this story from the February 1998 Reader's Digest: A couple 'took early retirement from their jobs in the Northeast five years ago when he was 59 and she was 51. Now they live in Punta Gorda, Florida, where they cruise on their 30-foot trawler, play softball, and collect shells...' Picture them before Christ at the great day of judgment: 'Look, Lord. See my shells.' That is a tragedy."
I will not presume to add much to Piper's words, but consider this as well; this tragedy is occurring all around us on a more common scale. Those who spend their free time, especially the golden years of retirement on trifles and hobbies will most often end up with nothing but dusty boxes full of unfinished projects of which their children will have to dispose. Even those whose brilliant projects shine on the covers of magazines will know on their deathbeds that those countless hours were wasted.
Think about this as you plan your upcoming weekend. I am guilty of wasting hours and probably years working on things which no one in their right mind would describe as "treasures," while I let the opportunity to build real treasures slip away. Dear Lord, please forgive me, and help me not to waste another minute.
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