New year’s resolutions are about positive change, but they always seem to become broken. So are we kidding ourselves? NO! God wants us to change (into Christlikeness) and He will help us. But make no mistake – you cannot make fundamental changes by your own resolve or desire – you need to ask God to work in you to that desired end.
The promise of a fundamental change…
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Cor 5)
And an ongoing process…
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Rom 12)
Into God’s desired character for us…
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal 5)
Four Areas to Consider
1. Know and love God more deeply by practicing spiritual disciplines (prayer, meditation, scripture reading, scripture memory, fellowship/accountability/small group, etc.)
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. (Eph 6)
Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. (Joshua 1)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Tim 3)
2. Love and serve others, so glorifying God
Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. (1 Peter 4)
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matt 5)
3. Be obedient – “just do it”
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (James 1)
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)
Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him. (John 14)
4. As a priest, seek God’s vision for you and leading for your ministry (He has a plan for you!)
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. (1 Pet 2)
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Eph 2)
Four Ways to Stay on Track
1. Ask God’s help – continually!
2. Get spiritual encouragement – be intentional about being around people, activities, books, music, conferences, missionaries, worship times, teachers, etc. that give you spiritual motivation and joy.
3. Schedule it – make appointments and reminders in your calendar, just as you would for any other important activity.
4. Ask someone for help and/or accountability – ask them to ask you how you are doing in certain areas that you want to change. Get into a small group. Get a spiritual mentor.
May we all experience God's love in 2009!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Christmas Presents
Luke 12:48. “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
Okay, I’ll get it right out there and say that I’m not much of a Christmas present guy, either giving or receiving. I guess I was snoozing when the Christmas present gene was handed out. Fortunately my terrific wife does a great job of making Christmas morning a dizzying spectacle of presents that makes our kids’ eyes pop.
I do, however, reflect a lot on what God has given me. It is stunning. It frequently leaves me in a state of awe. I put a list of things that scripture suggests we should thank God for in my November 26th post. There’s an old saying that states we should lead lives with an “attitude of gratitude.” I like this. We do need to be thanking God regularly.
God enjoys giving us gifts. He does this because he loves us. Further, there are no strings attached. God extends us grace, which is defined as unmerited favor. We don’t deserve these gifts. God desires a relationship with us, but he wants it to be volitional, not coerced. He has given us free will.
There is something else. As we enjoy God’s gifts and love, it should produce in us a heart like God’s – a heart that wants to love in return. The more we appreciate God’s goodness in our lives, the more we should want to participate in his global love extravaganza. So the scripture above, while it sounds like a warning, finds its basis in God’s love for us and his desire for us to extend love to others.
Most of us reading this are Americans. Very simply, that means we have been given much and entrusted with much. Someone has said that if you were born in America, you have already won the lottery. Let’s reflect on what God has given us, and ask him to show us how we can use our gifts to serve him and others.
Okay, I’ll get it right out there and say that I’m not much of a Christmas present guy, either giving or receiving. I guess I was snoozing when the Christmas present gene was handed out. Fortunately my terrific wife does a great job of making Christmas morning a dizzying spectacle of presents that makes our kids’ eyes pop.
I do, however, reflect a lot on what God has given me. It is stunning. It frequently leaves me in a state of awe. I put a list of things that scripture suggests we should thank God for in my November 26th post. There’s an old saying that states we should lead lives with an “attitude of gratitude.” I like this. We do need to be thanking God regularly.
God enjoys giving us gifts. He does this because he loves us. Further, there are no strings attached. God extends us grace, which is defined as unmerited favor. We don’t deserve these gifts. God desires a relationship with us, but he wants it to be volitional, not coerced. He has given us free will.
There is something else. As we enjoy God’s gifts and love, it should produce in us a heart like God’s – a heart that wants to love in return. The more we appreciate God’s goodness in our lives, the more we should want to participate in his global love extravaganza. So the scripture above, while it sounds like a warning, finds its basis in God’s love for us and his desire for us to extend love to others.
Most of us reading this are Americans. Very simply, that means we have been given much and entrusted with much. Someone has said that if you were born in America, you have already won the lottery. Let’s reflect on what God has given us, and ask him to show us how we can use our gifts to serve him and others.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Forgive and Be Set Free
Matthew 18:21-22. “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’”
Forgiveness is a big topic. People understand the importance of forgiving those who have offended or harmed them in some way, but often they hold onto grudges or anger anyway. They believe that they are somehow justified in withholding forgiveness.
I won’t chase this big topic too far in a brief reflection. But I do want to communicate clearly that if you have not truly forgiven someone and are holding onto some anger, you are hurting yourself. Ongoing anger and bitterness against someone is a cancer that eats up your insides. It doesn’t matter if the offender is unrepentant or has not taken a step to apologize. Don’t wait, just forgive.
I am part of a men’s group that meets every Friday morning to share our lives with one another and to discuss good books. One of the best books we have read was Total Forgiveness by R.T. Kendall. He talks about how God can enable us to forgive even when we don’t think we can. So if you’re finding it difficult to forgive someone, start by praying about this. One of Kendall’s most powerful points is the challenge to pray that God would bless the offending person. I tried this and initially found that my prayers felt insincere. But I stayed with it and found that over time I could indeed pray God’s blessings for someone who offended me – and mean it!
Jesus forgave those who crucified him, even as he was giving his life for them and for us. Take a step of forgiveness today.
Forgiveness is a big topic. People understand the importance of forgiving those who have offended or harmed them in some way, but often they hold onto grudges or anger anyway. They believe that they are somehow justified in withholding forgiveness.
I won’t chase this big topic too far in a brief reflection. But I do want to communicate clearly that if you have not truly forgiven someone and are holding onto some anger, you are hurting yourself. Ongoing anger and bitterness against someone is a cancer that eats up your insides. It doesn’t matter if the offender is unrepentant or has not taken a step to apologize. Don’t wait, just forgive.
I am part of a men’s group that meets every Friday morning to share our lives with one another and to discuss good books. One of the best books we have read was Total Forgiveness by R.T. Kendall. He talks about how God can enable us to forgive even when we don’t think we can. So if you’re finding it difficult to forgive someone, start by praying about this. One of Kendall’s most powerful points is the challenge to pray that God would bless the offending person. I tried this and initially found that my prayers felt insincere. But I stayed with it and found that over time I could indeed pray God’s blessings for someone who offended me – and mean it!
Jesus forgave those who crucified him, even as he was giving his life for them and for us. Take a step of forgiveness today.
Friday, December 5, 2008
You Are the Light of the World
Matthew 5:14 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.”
In this passage from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells his audience that they are to be different and they are to make a difference. This follows the beatitudes, in which Jesus talks about how attributes and circumstances that people commonly consider negative (such as meekness, persecution, poverty in spirit, and mourning) actually become blessings!
Almost 7 years ago we helped start a ministry in our church for young adults, which adopted the name Hill Climbers. Psalm 24:3-4 became our theme verse: “Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false.” As young adults, they liked the idea of climbing up to something desirable – God’s holy place. Tonight we will gather the with the leadership team and celebrate God’s faithfulness to the ministry over these years.
While this marks the end of a season and has some sadness associated with it, we also recognize that God has fulfilled our vision of attracting and connecting young adults into the mainstream of our church. In essence, these young adults (now mostly married, with kids and in their thirties!) have reached the top of the hill that they had set out to climb.
As I was thinking about our time of sharing tonight, I was wondering what it looks like to have arrived at the top of the hill. Before Jesus’ death and resurrection, the temple in Jerusalem – which was the holy hill – was the place where God dwelt (now God indwells every believer). To be on the hill and in the temple meant to be near to God. But we need to go further. Jesus says that our nearness to God should change us – causing us to be a light to a dark world. People ought to observe our character and behavior and notice (like a big light on a hill!) a difference. And that difference is summed up in one word: love. Let your light shine!
In this passage from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells his audience that they are to be different and they are to make a difference. This follows the beatitudes, in which Jesus talks about how attributes and circumstances that people commonly consider negative (such as meekness, persecution, poverty in spirit, and mourning) actually become blessings!
Almost 7 years ago we helped start a ministry in our church for young adults, which adopted the name Hill Climbers. Psalm 24:3-4 became our theme verse: “Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false.” As young adults, they liked the idea of climbing up to something desirable – God’s holy place. Tonight we will gather the with the leadership team and celebrate God’s faithfulness to the ministry over these years.
While this marks the end of a season and has some sadness associated with it, we also recognize that God has fulfilled our vision of attracting and connecting young adults into the mainstream of our church. In essence, these young adults (now mostly married, with kids and in their thirties!) have reached the top of the hill that they had set out to climb.
As I was thinking about our time of sharing tonight, I was wondering what it looks like to have arrived at the top of the hill. Before Jesus’ death and resurrection, the temple in Jerusalem – which was the holy hill – was the place where God dwelt (now God indwells every believer). To be on the hill and in the temple meant to be near to God. But we need to go further. Jesus says that our nearness to God should change us – causing us to be a light to a dark world. People ought to observe our character and behavior and notice (like a big light on a hill!) a difference. And that difference is summed up in one word: love. Let your light shine!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Jesus, the Great Unifier and Peacemaker
Ephesians 2:15-16. “His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.”
Recent events in Mumbai, on top of other situations of conflict around the world, leave serious doubts about the likelihood of lasting peace in the world. It can be hard for us to be optimistic.
In the scripture above, Paul is writing to the local Christian church in Ephesus which is comprised of a very diverse group, including Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews). He says that these two groups are antagonistic toward one another (divided by a “wall of hostility” in verse 14). It is easy for us to picture this kind of conflict in various parts of our world today.
Jesus’ purpose is to unify people who are in conflict, making one “new man” out of the two (Jews and non-Jews). The result of people living in unity is peace. The approach to unifying disparate people is to reconcile them to God; that is, restoring a right relationship between each person and God. Jesus’ death on the cross accomplished this, by paying the price for our wrongdoings.
There are a host of man-made solutions for resolving conflict, some good, some not so good. But I believe that lives lived in submission to a loving, grace-giving God whose two primary commandments are to love him (defined as obedience) and to love others as we love ourselves is the ultimate path to lasting peace.
Recent events in Mumbai, on top of other situations of conflict around the world, leave serious doubts about the likelihood of lasting peace in the world. It can be hard for us to be optimistic.
In the scripture above, Paul is writing to the local Christian church in Ephesus which is comprised of a very diverse group, including Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews). He says that these two groups are antagonistic toward one another (divided by a “wall of hostility” in verse 14). It is easy for us to picture this kind of conflict in various parts of our world today.
Jesus’ purpose is to unify people who are in conflict, making one “new man” out of the two (Jews and non-Jews). The result of people living in unity is peace. The approach to unifying disparate people is to reconcile them to God; that is, restoring a right relationship between each person and God. Jesus’ death on the cross accomplished this, by paying the price for our wrongdoings.
There are a host of man-made solutions for resolving conflict, some good, some not so good. But I believe that lives lived in submission to a loving, grace-giving God whose two primary commandments are to love him (defined as obedience) and to love others as we love ourselves is the ultimate path to lasting peace.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thank you, God!
We have a Thanksgiving tradition in our family where each person at the dinner table prayerfully thanks God for something in his/her life. I am always touched by the breadth and depth of God's blessings! Lindsay recently continued that tradition with friends in Japan - way to go, Lin!
In our American culture, Thanksgiving often is translated into a vague sense of appreciation for what we have, rather than an opportunity to thank the one who is the giver of all good things. Below are some verses that can help us reflect on what we can thank God for – you might want to share some of these around the Thanksgiving dinner table. Eat well and be thankful!
1. His love for me. (Psalm 107:1) Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
2. My salvation and Christ’s sacrifice for me. (1 Corinthians 10:16) Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?
3. God’s righteousness. (Psalm 7:17) I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.
4. His Word – the truth that guides me. (Psalm 119:62) At midnight I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws.
5. Trials that He has allowed in my life – and through which He has sustained me and developed my character. (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
6. His strength and protection – physically, spiritually, mentally, emotionally (Psalm 28:7) The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
7. His blessings given to me – family, friends, health, vocation, “daily bread” (Matthew 15:36) Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people.
8. His blessings given to others (Psalm 107:8) Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men.
9. My gifts and talents; His call to me to serve and love others, and to proclaim Christ (1 Chronicles 16:8) Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
10. The fellowship of believers – my church and other ministries in which I participate (1 Thessalonians 1:2) We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers.
11. In the midst of challenges, His peace that goes beyond understanding (Philippians 4:5-7) Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
In our American culture, Thanksgiving often is translated into a vague sense of appreciation for what we have, rather than an opportunity to thank the one who is the giver of all good things. Below are some verses that can help us reflect on what we can thank God for – you might want to share some of these around the Thanksgiving dinner table. Eat well and be thankful!
1. His love for me. (Psalm 107:1) Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
2. My salvation and Christ’s sacrifice for me. (1 Corinthians 10:16) Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?
3. God’s righteousness. (Psalm 7:17) I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.
4. His Word – the truth that guides me. (Psalm 119:62) At midnight I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws.
5. Trials that He has allowed in my life – and through which He has sustained me and developed my character. (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
6. His strength and protection – physically, spiritually, mentally, emotionally (Psalm 28:7) The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
7. His blessings given to me – family, friends, health, vocation, “daily bread” (Matthew 15:36) Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people.
8. His blessings given to others (Psalm 107:8) Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men.
9. My gifts and talents; His call to me to serve and love others, and to proclaim Christ (1 Chronicles 16:8) Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
10. The fellowship of believers – my church and other ministries in which I participate (1 Thessalonians 1:2) We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers.
11. In the midst of challenges, His peace that goes beyond understanding (Philippians 4:5-7) Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Walking and Waiting
Isaiah 26:8. “Walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you.”
I have always believed that waiting on God is not the same as inactivity. It does not mean that when confronted with an issue or situation we go sit in our room and wait for God to do something. You know the old joke, where a man was standing on top of his house in a massive flood with high water all around him. A guy in a boat paddles up and says. “Get in!” The man says, “No thanks, I’m waiting for God to save me.” A helicopter flies over and the same exchange takes place. A few hours later, the rising water overcomes the man and he drowns. When he gets to heaven, he asks God, “Why didn’t you save me?” God replies, “I sent you a boat and a helicopter – what did you expect?”
The verse above suggests that we move as we wait. We walk. We take action. In particular, we are to be careful to walk in God’s ways as we wait; to be obedient to his commands.
Most of us like closure to issues. It is hard to keep options open. But often we make the mistake of making decisions ahead of God because we are unwilling to wait for him to show us the best way. We need to be carefully pursuing multiple options, praying and listening for his movement to direct us.
Six months ago our church had a plan to build a big facility on a piece of property we had purchased. We became uncomfortable that this one plan was the right plan. So we backed away from it and opened our thinking to many options. We have more work to do as a result, and we don’t know yet which option God has in store for us, but we are all at peace that we are listening to God and not prematurely closing off options he wants us to pursue.
Do you have a big issue you are dealing with? God promises to hear your prayer and answer it. So pray and wait on him, but walk while you wait.
I have always believed that waiting on God is not the same as inactivity. It does not mean that when confronted with an issue or situation we go sit in our room and wait for God to do something. You know the old joke, where a man was standing on top of his house in a massive flood with high water all around him. A guy in a boat paddles up and says. “Get in!” The man says, “No thanks, I’m waiting for God to save me.” A helicopter flies over and the same exchange takes place. A few hours later, the rising water overcomes the man and he drowns. When he gets to heaven, he asks God, “Why didn’t you save me?” God replies, “I sent you a boat and a helicopter – what did you expect?”
The verse above suggests that we move as we wait. We walk. We take action. In particular, we are to be careful to walk in God’s ways as we wait; to be obedient to his commands.
Most of us like closure to issues. It is hard to keep options open. But often we make the mistake of making decisions ahead of God because we are unwilling to wait for him to show us the best way. We need to be carefully pursuing multiple options, praying and listening for his movement to direct us.
Six months ago our church had a plan to build a big facility on a piece of property we had purchased. We became uncomfortable that this one plan was the right plan. So we backed away from it and opened our thinking to many options. We have more work to do as a result, and we don’t know yet which option God has in store for us, but we are all at peace that we are listening to God and not prematurely closing off options he wants us to pursue.
Do you have a big issue you are dealing with? God promises to hear your prayer and answer it. So pray and wait on him, but walk while you wait.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Extending God’s Grace to Others
1 Peter 4:10. “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.”
Here’s another one of my all-time favorite verses. It packs a ton into a short sentence.
First, there is the gift. In this context Peter is talking about spiritual gifts. These are imparted by the Holy Spirit to believers, and include teaching, leading, prophesying, etc. (see Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 for more examples). While these can be also seen as natural talents or developed skills, spiritual gifts are distinctly given to God’s people for a particular purpose. Here and elsewhere scripture tells us that all believers have at least one spiritual gift. This is huge. We tend to think that we’re not Mother Teresa or Billy Graham and so we’re sort of second class saints. But we have been given a spiritual gift that God considers to be of enormous importance – and our gift is designed just for us. So let’s forget about comparing ourselves to others.
Second, there is the purpose. Some of these spiritual gifts could be used for our own benefit. But we’re told that the purpose of these gifts is to serve others. Again, we don’t have to think that how we serve others is better or worse than someone else – it’s just different. God has always given me a heart for younger people, and I was drawn to the ministry of Young Life which the Lord has used in big ways for over half a century to reach adolescents around the world. It was very clear to me early on that I was not gifted to be an up-front leader of kids. But I do have administrative and leadership gifts that God has used to help the ministry plan for the future, structure its organization and raise funds.
Third, there is the value. The idea that each of us can participate in extending God’s grace to others is profound. God’s grace is of incalculable value. God has redeemed people through the blood of Jesus Christ. He loves everyone in the world and he cares about those is need. As the omnipotent God of the universe he does not need us to help him. But this is the plan he has chosen. So each of us – using the unique gifts that God has given us – has the opportunity to extend God’s love to others, to extend his grace. I picture this as a rainbow or a huge quilt that has tremendous variety but all works together for God’s purpose and will. What is your spiritual gift? Make sure you know, then put it to use serving others and watch God do something spectacular!
Here’s another one of my all-time favorite verses. It packs a ton into a short sentence.
First, there is the gift. In this context Peter is talking about spiritual gifts. These are imparted by the Holy Spirit to believers, and include teaching, leading, prophesying, etc. (see Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 for more examples). While these can be also seen as natural talents or developed skills, spiritual gifts are distinctly given to God’s people for a particular purpose. Here and elsewhere scripture tells us that all believers have at least one spiritual gift. This is huge. We tend to think that we’re not Mother Teresa or Billy Graham and so we’re sort of second class saints. But we have been given a spiritual gift that God considers to be of enormous importance – and our gift is designed just for us. So let’s forget about comparing ourselves to others.
Second, there is the purpose. Some of these spiritual gifts could be used for our own benefit. But we’re told that the purpose of these gifts is to serve others. Again, we don’t have to think that how we serve others is better or worse than someone else – it’s just different. God has always given me a heart for younger people, and I was drawn to the ministry of Young Life which the Lord has used in big ways for over half a century to reach adolescents around the world. It was very clear to me early on that I was not gifted to be an up-front leader of kids. But I do have administrative and leadership gifts that God has used to help the ministry plan for the future, structure its organization and raise funds.
Third, there is the value. The idea that each of us can participate in extending God’s grace to others is profound. God’s grace is of incalculable value. God has redeemed people through the blood of Jesus Christ. He loves everyone in the world and he cares about those is need. As the omnipotent God of the universe he does not need us to help him. But this is the plan he has chosen. So each of us – using the unique gifts that God has given us – has the opportunity to extend God’s love to others, to extend his grace. I picture this as a rainbow or a huge quilt that has tremendous variety but all works together for God’s purpose and will. What is your spiritual gift? Make sure you know, then put it to use serving others and watch God do something spectacular!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Hope
1 Corinthians 13:13. “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
Many years ago I read the familiar 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians (the “love chapter”) and puzzled a bit at verse 13. After the beautiful discourse on the character of love, the chapter culminates with a statement that compares the importance of love with that of faith and hope, implying that these are the “big three.” I could easily grasp the importance of love and faith as foundational to my understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. Love is the central message of the Gospel (John 3:16), and we enter into an eternal relationship with God by faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). But I wasn’t sure how hope made it to the top three.
Hope as a noun is “the sense that what is desired can be had;” or as a verb “to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.” I started thinking about why scripture places so much importance on this. I’m no psychologist, but humanly speaking, it makes sense that people are motivated and encouraged as they believe that there is something good or desirable that lies ahead. Hope is an energy giver.
So what is that “something good” we desire? For the follower of Jesus, the easy answer is eternal life with God (not to digress, but the most poignant description of heaven for me is in Revelation 21:4 where heaven is described as a wonderful place where “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” – what a stark contrast to the world today).
But there is more. I am convinced that there is much good to look forward to in our time on earth. I could go on and on about this (maybe I will another time!), but let me suggest just one aspect of the hope we can have. As a follower of Jesus, God gives us the Holy Spirit to live in us and guide us. As we yield to the Spirit’s leading, he transforms us into people whose lives, according to Galatians 5:22-23, are increasingly characterized by “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” There are a lot of temporal things that I could hope for (and often do). But the hope that God could make me this kind of person is absolutely staggering. Imagine people describing you with these words – now that’s a hope to get excited about!
Many years ago I read the familiar 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians (the “love chapter”) and puzzled a bit at verse 13. After the beautiful discourse on the character of love, the chapter culminates with a statement that compares the importance of love with that of faith and hope, implying that these are the “big three.” I could easily grasp the importance of love and faith as foundational to my understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. Love is the central message of the Gospel (John 3:16), and we enter into an eternal relationship with God by faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). But I wasn’t sure how hope made it to the top three.
Hope as a noun is “the sense that what is desired can be had;” or as a verb “to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.” I started thinking about why scripture places so much importance on this. I’m no psychologist, but humanly speaking, it makes sense that people are motivated and encouraged as they believe that there is something good or desirable that lies ahead. Hope is an energy giver.
So what is that “something good” we desire? For the follower of Jesus, the easy answer is eternal life with God (not to digress, but the most poignant description of heaven for me is in Revelation 21:4 where heaven is described as a wonderful place where “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” – what a stark contrast to the world today).
But there is more. I am convinced that there is much good to look forward to in our time on earth. I could go on and on about this (maybe I will another time!), but let me suggest just one aspect of the hope we can have. As a follower of Jesus, God gives us the Holy Spirit to live in us and guide us. As we yield to the Spirit’s leading, he transforms us into people whose lives, according to Galatians 5:22-23, are increasingly characterized by “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” There are a lot of temporal things that I could hope for (and often do). But the hope that God could make me this kind of person is absolutely staggering. Imagine people describing you with these words – now that’s a hope to get excited about!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Those in Authority
1 Timothy 2:1-3. "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior."
Today is election day 2008 in the U.S. If you live in America, you are probably relieved that the long campaigns are finally over. I know I am!
I don't know if the candidates I vote for today will be elected. But I do know that I am called to pray for those who are. Scripture tells us to pray for those in authority so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness - and that this is the kind of life that is good and pleases God. This description reminds me of the fruits of the spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When we yield our own desires and will to God, and allow the holy spirit to rule in our lives, these characteristics and behaviors result.
So go out and vote today and, more importantly, pray regularly for the men and women who will assume authority.
Today is election day 2008 in the U.S. If you live in America, you are probably relieved that the long campaigns are finally over. I know I am!
I don't know if the candidates I vote for today will be elected. But I do know that I am called to pray for those who are. Scripture tells us to pray for those in authority so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness - and that this is the kind of life that is good and pleases God. This description reminds me of the fruits of the spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When we yield our own desires and will to God, and allow the holy spirit to rule in our lives, these characteristics and behaviors result.
So go out and vote today and, more importantly, pray regularly for the men and women who will assume authority.
Monday, October 27, 2008
God's Faithfulness
As a strategy consultant, our firm primarily does “one-off” projects; that is, a single project for a client. The reason is pretty simple. If we help a client develop a great long-term strategy or resolve a big strategic issue; and if we put in place a clear implementation plan; they shouldn’t need us again for quite a while. In fact, if we did get called back it would mean that the plan didn’t go well (fortunately this hasn’t happened to us!). All this is to say that we have no clear “forward look” to our business. This kind of uncertainty is a faith-builder! But while I can’t see what if any work we’ll be doing a couple of months from now, I can look back over the dozen plus years we’ve been in business and see God’s faithful hand at work.
In uncertain times like these we need to remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness. Each of us can think back and recount times when God’s faithfulness was evident in our lives. We need to think about those times. Also, scripture tells us that he is faithful; it’s his nature. We need to think about that as well. So take a few minutes and think about God’s faithfulness in your life. If he’s been faithful to you in the past, surely you can count on him to be faithful to you in the future! And read the following verses with confidence – our God is faithful at all times and in all situations!
Psalm 86:15 But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
Psalm 89:8 O LORD God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
Psalm 89:14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.
Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Psalm 108:4 For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
Psalm 115:1 Not to us, O LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.
Psalm 117:2 For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD.
Isaiah 25:1 O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago.
Lamentations 3:22-23 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
In uncertain times like these we need to remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness. Each of us can think back and recount times when God’s faithfulness was evident in our lives. We need to think about those times. Also, scripture tells us that he is faithful; it’s his nature. We need to think about that as well. So take a few minutes and think about God’s faithfulness in your life. If he’s been faithful to you in the past, surely you can count on him to be faithful to you in the future! And read the following verses with confidence – our God is faithful at all times and in all situations!
Psalm 86:15 But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
Psalm 89:8 O LORD God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
Psalm 89:14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.
Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Psalm 108:4 For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
Psalm 115:1 Not to us, O LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.
Psalm 117:2 For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD.
Isaiah 25:1 O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago.
Lamentations 3:22-23 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Attitude
Philippians 2:1-11. "If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
Our attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus, according to this passage of scripture: humble and obedient in all circumstances. The quote below from Chuck Swindoll has always been a good reminder of the importance of a good attitude at all times!
"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company… a church… a home. The remarkable thing is that we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past… we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you… we are in charge of our attitudes."
Our attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus, according to this passage of scripture: humble and obedient in all circumstances. The quote below from Chuck Swindoll has always been a good reminder of the importance of a good attitude at all times!
"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company… a church… a home. The remarkable thing is that we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past… we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you… we are in charge of our attitudes."
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
THIS Is the Day!
Psalm 118:24. “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
OK, I confess that sometimes I am writing these posts to myself. This is one of them. Years ago, I found an occupation (strategic planner) that is well suited to my predisposition to think about the future. I like to think about possibilities, and how various influences and events could shape the future of an organization. I like the concept of vision, and how it motivates and aligns people toward a preferred future. I like to think about things as they might be, and how to create strategies to get there.
Often, however, when we think about the future, we think about what could go wrong – health, employment, finances, relationships, and so on. All of us have at least a bit of this in us. I have a friend like this who describes himself as a “negative scanner.” I guess that sounds better than “worrier.”
So I need to keep Psalm 118:24 in front of me regularly. I need to be reminded that today is a gift from God. I need to remember that even though there are a dozen things I could worry about – things that may take a turn for the worse tomorrow or next week or next year – that I have today to enjoy. I need to count my blessings – to appreciate all that God has given me today. I need to remember that God loves me deeply and wants to spend time with me… today.
Sometimes we think of “perspective” as stepping back and taking the long view of things. This has its place. But often we need the perspective of just enjoying today. Take a few minutes to think about how God has blessed you and thank him for it – and thank him for today!
OK, I confess that sometimes I am writing these posts to myself. This is one of them. Years ago, I found an occupation (strategic planner) that is well suited to my predisposition to think about the future. I like to think about possibilities, and how various influences and events could shape the future of an organization. I like the concept of vision, and how it motivates and aligns people toward a preferred future. I like to think about things as they might be, and how to create strategies to get there.
Often, however, when we think about the future, we think about what could go wrong – health, employment, finances, relationships, and so on. All of us have at least a bit of this in us. I have a friend like this who describes himself as a “negative scanner.” I guess that sounds better than “worrier.”
So I need to keep Psalm 118:24 in front of me regularly. I need to be reminded that today is a gift from God. I need to remember that even though there are a dozen things I could worry about – things that may take a turn for the worse tomorrow or next week or next year – that I have today to enjoy. I need to count my blessings – to appreciate all that God has given me today. I need to remember that God loves me deeply and wants to spend time with me… today.
Sometimes we think of “perspective” as stepping back and taking the long view of things. This has its place. But often we need the perspective of just enjoying today. Take a few minutes to think about how God has blessed you and thank him for it – and thank him for today!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Why Is There Evil in the World?
John 3:16. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
The question of why God who is good would allow evil in the world has been the subject of numerous books and an untold number of discussions. There is no simple answer, but there are points to be considered. Several of these are summarized below, and some quotes are taken from C.S. Lewis and Tim Keller. Take some time to reflect on these. Some speak to the heart, and some to the head. Hopefully they will help you understand this complex topic.
– The innate sense in humans that there is good and evil, and right and wrong argues for the existence of God; else we would be content with a “survival of the fittest” view which is characteristic of the animal kingdom.
– God’s “divine goodness” and love are far above what we can comprehend. “Love may cause pain to its object, but only on the supposition that that object needs alteration to become fully lovable… We have used our free will to become very bad.” (Lewis) We all have heard stories of how a profound illness, broken relationship, death of a loved one, or other “bad” thing drew someone closer to God. “Though none of these people are grateful for the tragedies themselves, they would not trade the insight, character, and strength they had gotten from them for anything. With time and perspective most of us can see the good reasons for at least some of the tragedy and pain that occurs in life. Why couldn’t it be possible that, from God’s vantage point, there are good reasons for all of them?” (Keller) We should not be surprised that the cure may be painful given the extent of our sickness. God’s standard is love – perfect love.
– Most evil is caused by people, either directly or indirectly (we could have used the trillions of dollars we have spent on wars to find cures to diseases and protect people from natural disasters). “When souls become wicked they will hurt one another; and this, perhaps, accounts for four-fifths of the sufferings of men. It is men, not God, who have produced racks, whips, prisons, slavery, guns, bayonets, and bombs; it is by human avarice or human stupidity, not by the churlishness of nature, that we have poverty.” (Lewis)
– The depth of our suffering on earth makes our eventual experience in heaven all the greater. “The biblical view of things is resurrection – not a future that is just a consolation for the life we never had but a restoration of the life you always wanted. This means that every horrible thing that ever happened will not only be undone and repaired but will in some way make the eventual glory and joy even greater.” (Keller)
– God understands our suffering. He allowed his son Jesus to suffer in order to justify us and enable us to establish a right relationship with himself. He cares for us and comforts us when we go through hard times. While he allows suffering to occur, he understands that we struggle when we suffer and he loves us through it.
The question of why God who is good would allow evil in the world has been the subject of numerous books and an untold number of discussions. There is no simple answer, but there are points to be considered. Several of these are summarized below, and some quotes are taken from C.S. Lewis and Tim Keller. Take some time to reflect on these. Some speak to the heart, and some to the head. Hopefully they will help you understand this complex topic.
– The innate sense in humans that there is good and evil, and right and wrong argues for the existence of God; else we would be content with a “survival of the fittest” view which is characteristic of the animal kingdom.
– God’s “divine goodness” and love are far above what we can comprehend. “Love may cause pain to its object, but only on the supposition that that object needs alteration to become fully lovable… We have used our free will to become very bad.” (Lewis) We all have heard stories of how a profound illness, broken relationship, death of a loved one, or other “bad” thing drew someone closer to God. “Though none of these people are grateful for the tragedies themselves, they would not trade the insight, character, and strength they had gotten from them for anything. With time and perspective most of us can see the good reasons for at least some of the tragedy and pain that occurs in life. Why couldn’t it be possible that, from God’s vantage point, there are good reasons for all of them?” (Keller) We should not be surprised that the cure may be painful given the extent of our sickness. God’s standard is love – perfect love.
– Most evil is caused by people, either directly or indirectly (we could have used the trillions of dollars we have spent on wars to find cures to diseases and protect people from natural disasters). “When souls become wicked they will hurt one another; and this, perhaps, accounts for four-fifths of the sufferings of men. It is men, not God, who have produced racks, whips, prisons, slavery, guns, bayonets, and bombs; it is by human avarice or human stupidity, not by the churlishness of nature, that we have poverty.” (Lewis)
– The depth of our suffering on earth makes our eventual experience in heaven all the greater. “The biblical view of things is resurrection – not a future that is just a consolation for the life we never had but a restoration of the life you always wanted. This means that every horrible thing that ever happened will not only be undone and repaired but will in some way make the eventual glory and joy even greater.” (Keller)
– God understands our suffering. He allowed his son Jesus to suffer in order to justify us and enable us to establish a right relationship with himself. He cares for us and comforts us when we go through hard times. While he allows suffering to occur, he understands that we struggle when we suffer and he loves us through it.
Monday, October 13, 2008
No Separation from God’s Love
Romans 8:35, 37-38. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This is one of those powerful passages of scripture that gets me all fired up. As a competitive guy, being on the winning team is definitely appealing. And Paul’s statement that we are more than conquerors makes me want to pump my fist in the air and say, “Yes!”
Okay, back to reality. This verse is not about you or me being superheroes and overcoming evil. It’s simply a promise that God loves us and will never withdraw that love. Never. Withdraw. His love. No conditions, no performance expectations, no nada. Think about that for a minute.
This life will have its share of troubles and hardships. We know that. God doesn’t promise to take those away. Instead, he says that he will love us, that he will walk with us through every single challenge we encounter, that he will encourage us. I wouldn’t believe in a God who people say will make everything happy, comfortable and easy. It would just be wishful thinking. But I am passionate to believe in a God who knows the struggles I face and will face, and who promises to be with me through them all. This love, the verse says, is in Christ Jesus our Lord. I can believe this promise because Jesus willingly went to his death for you and me. That’s how much he loves us.
This is one of those powerful passages of scripture that gets me all fired up. As a competitive guy, being on the winning team is definitely appealing. And Paul’s statement that we are more than conquerors makes me want to pump my fist in the air and say, “Yes!”
Okay, back to reality. This verse is not about you or me being superheroes and overcoming evil. It’s simply a promise that God loves us and will never withdraw that love. Never. Withdraw. His love. No conditions, no performance expectations, no nada. Think about that for a minute.
This life will have its share of troubles and hardships. We know that. God doesn’t promise to take those away. Instead, he says that he will love us, that he will walk with us through every single challenge we encounter, that he will encourage us. I wouldn’t believe in a God who people say will make everything happy, comfortable and easy. It would just be wishful thinking. But I am passionate to believe in a God who knows the struggles I face and will face, and who promises to be with me through them all. This love, the verse says, is in Christ Jesus our Lord. I can believe this promise because Jesus willingly went to his death for you and me. That’s how much he loves us.
Friday, October 10, 2008
A Journey to Faraway Places
Genesis 12: 1-2. “The LORD had said to Abram, ‘Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.’”
I miss my kids. Most of you reading this know that Andrew is in South Africa, Chris is in India, and Lindsay is in Japan. While Skype is a great tool, it’s not the same as face-to-face conversation and certainly can’t deliver a big hug.
God’s people are on a spiritual journey and, very often, on a physical journey as well. God told Abram (later renamed Abraham) to leave his country. Joseph wound up in Egypt. Moses led the people out of Egypt and to the promised land. Nehemiah moved from Babylon to Jerusalem. Paul traveled all around the Roman Empire. Hudson Taylor moved to China. Mother Teresa moved to India. Billy Graham traveled all around the world. And so on.
Relocating to a faraway place with a very different culture can be difficult. Abram had to leave his extended family and all that was familiar and comfortable to him. All of us who have traveled to a foreign country understand this to some extent. Once I traveled to China and had with me a “cheat sheet” of several food dishes I could point to so the server knew what I wanted (of course I could not read the menu). After a week of eating the same food I was a bit bored. I decided to take a chance and pointed to a random item on the menu. What came out was a deep fried whole fish complete with head, scales, and innards. I quickly went back to the cheat sheet.
I don’t know why God had so many people journey to faraway places. But I do know that he did, and when he did, pretty amazing things happened in and through Abram, Joseph, Moses, Nehemiah, Paul and others in more recent times. So while I miss my kids, I have a sense that God has them on a remarkable journey, and that he will do some amazing things in and though them while they are on that journey. Is God calling you on a journey?
I miss my kids. Most of you reading this know that Andrew is in South Africa, Chris is in India, and Lindsay is in Japan. While Skype is a great tool, it’s not the same as face-to-face conversation and certainly can’t deliver a big hug.
God’s people are on a spiritual journey and, very often, on a physical journey as well. God told Abram (later renamed Abraham) to leave his country. Joseph wound up in Egypt. Moses led the people out of Egypt and to the promised land. Nehemiah moved from Babylon to Jerusalem. Paul traveled all around the Roman Empire. Hudson Taylor moved to China. Mother Teresa moved to India. Billy Graham traveled all around the world. And so on.
Relocating to a faraway place with a very different culture can be difficult. Abram had to leave his extended family and all that was familiar and comfortable to him. All of us who have traveled to a foreign country understand this to some extent. Once I traveled to China and had with me a “cheat sheet” of several food dishes I could point to so the server knew what I wanted (of course I could not read the menu). After a week of eating the same food I was a bit bored. I decided to take a chance and pointed to a random item on the menu. What came out was a deep fried whole fish complete with head, scales, and innards. I quickly went back to the cheat sheet.
I don’t know why God had so many people journey to faraway places. But I do know that he did, and when he did, pretty amazing things happened in and through Abram, Joseph, Moses, Nehemiah, Paul and others in more recent times. So while I miss my kids, I have a sense that God has them on a remarkable journey, and that he will do some amazing things in and though them while they are on that journey. Is God calling you on a journey?
Monday, October 6, 2008
The Lord Sustains
Psalm 55:22. “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.”
I have never been a very good investor, because I am too optimistic. Wall Street tends to punish guys like me. So I have someone else invest my money, but it turns out they aren’t doing much better! My story is pretty common in 2008, as most everyone I know has taken losses. But my investment losses are trivial compared to the trials of many of my friends, especially those who face severe health or relational issues.
We have lots of cares and concerns. Some are huge, and some are just daily challenges. Scripture encourages us to cast them on the Lord. This is as simple as saying, “God, I am carrying around this big burden. It’s too heavy for me. It is robbing me of joy. Please help me.”
God promises to sustain us. I like this word because we know that he doesn’t always “make things better” in the sense that we would want. But I firmly believe that God will sustain you and me through the challenges of life. When I think of God sustaining me, I think of him giving me love, encouragement, strength and hope. I think of him giving me this through family and friends. I think of him giving me “the peace that passes all understanding.” I think of my home in heaven that we talked about last time.
We often have trouble accepting this because we don’t understand God’s condition for the promise. The verse says that he will never let the righteous fall. We think, “Well, I guess that promise is for someone else because I’m certainly not righteous.” We’re not, based on our thoughts and actions. But scripture says that we are righteous through our faith in Jesus (Romans 3:22). Despite our unrighteous behavior, God considers us righteous because of our faith. That is good news! Believe, and he will sustain you!
I have never been a very good investor, because I am too optimistic. Wall Street tends to punish guys like me. So I have someone else invest my money, but it turns out they aren’t doing much better! My story is pretty common in 2008, as most everyone I know has taken losses. But my investment losses are trivial compared to the trials of many of my friends, especially those who face severe health or relational issues.
We have lots of cares and concerns. Some are huge, and some are just daily challenges. Scripture encourages us to cast them on the Lord. This is as simple as saying, “God, I am carrying around this big burden. It’s too heavy for me. It is robbing me of joy. Please help me.”
God promises to sustain us. I like this word because we know that he doesn’t always “make things better” in the sense that we would want. But I firmly believe that God will sustain you and me through the challenges of life. When I think of God sustaining me, I think of him giving me love, encouragement, strength and hope. I think of him giving me this through family and friends. I think of him giving me “the peace that passes all understanding.” I think of my home in heaven that we talked about last time.
We often have trouble accepting this because we don’t understand God’s condition for the promise. The verse says that he will never let the righteous fall. We think, “Well, I guess that promise is for someone else because I’m certainly not righteous.” We’re not, based on our thoughts and actions. But scripture says that we are righteous through our faith in Jesus (Romans 3:22). Despite our unrighteous behavior, God considers us righteous because of our faith. That is good news! Believe, and he will sustain you!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
We Are Pilgrims
Hebrews 11:13-16. “All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one.”
As a kid, the word pilgrim conjured up images of people who lived a long time ago and wore funny clothes. One definition is “a traveler or wanderer, especially in a foreign place.” Does the world seem like a foreign place to you, even when you are in your home?
Hebrews 11 starts with recounting great people of faith, and then gets to verse 13 and says that they did not receive the things promised – they only saw them from a distance. Their great hope and expectation was not anything they would experience on earth – rather, it was something that they would enjoy in heaven.
The world does seem like a foreign place to me most of the time. There are problems and much suffering. Things don’t seem to be getting a whole lot better. I am at an age where I am very aware of physical limitations that didn’t exist thirty years ago. And although I have wonderful blessings of family, friends, meaningful work, and much more, the world just isn’t the “be all and end all” for me. I think that’s because we are wired to desire heaven, and we know in our hearts that heaven will be a “better country.” So we are pilgrims while we are here on earth.
Now I don’t want this to sound depressing, because God certainly intends for us to live joyful and meaningful lives, and I am a testimony to this truth! Being a pilgrim means being on a journey filled with adventure and excitement. And it’s a journey that is leading to something wonderful beyond our comprehension.
As a kid, the word pilgrim conjured up images of people who lived a long time ago and wore funny clothes. One definition is “a traveler or wanderer, especially in a foreign place.” Does the world seem like a foreign place to you, even when you are in your home?
Hebrews 11 starts with recounting great people of faith, and then gets to verse 13 and says that they did not receive the things promised – they only saw them from a distance. Their great hope and expectation was not anything they would experience on earth – rather, it was something that they would enjoy in heaven.
The world does seem like a foreign place to me most of the time. There are problems and much suffering. Things don’t seem to be getting a whole lot better. I am at an age where I am very aware of physical limitations that didn’t exist thirty years ago. And although I have wonderful blessings of family, friends, meaningful work, and much more, the world just isn’t the “be all and end all” for me. I think that’s because we are wired to desire heaven, and we know in our hearts that heaven will be a “better country.” So we are pilgrims while we are here on earth.
Now I don’t want this to sound depressing, because God certainly intends for us to live joyful and meaningful lives, and I am a testimony to this truth! Being a pilgrim means being on a journey filled with adventure and excitement. And it’s a journey that is leading to something wonderful beyond our comprehension.
Monday, September 29, 2008
God Works for Our Good
Romans 8:28. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
In this familiar verse, Paul reminds us that God works for our good in all things. Some things that we experience do not seem good, but God redeems them all and uses them for his good purposes. We have to remember that God sees the big picture across eternity, a perspective which is very different than our “here and now” view.
The assurance has two conditions. It is for those who love God and whom are called according to his purpose. This is not meant to be a test or some high hurdle over which we cannot jump. (Do I love God enough? Do I understand his exact purpose for my life?) Rather, it means that we are to be in a love relationship with God and surrendering our will to his.
Usually people who quote this scripture do not go on to consider the next verse, which says, “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son.” This is very interesting. Our idea of good may be very different than God’s idea of good. We tend to think of good as being that which contributes to our comfort and pleasure. God’s idea of good is that our character conforms to Jesus’ character. And often it’s the tough stuff that builds character.
So we can be sure that as followers of Jesus, God works for our good. Just remember that the standard for good is Jesus!
In this familiar verse, Paul reminds us that God works for our good in all things. Some things that we experience do not seem good, but God redeems them all and uses them for his good purposes. We have to remember that God sees the big picture across eternity, a perspective which is very different than our “here and now” view.
The assurance has two conditions. It is for those who love God and whom are called according to his purpose. This is not meant to be a test or some high hurdle over which we cannot jump. (Do I love God enough? Do I understand his exact purpose for my life?) Rather, it means that we are to be in a love relationship with God and surrendering our will to his.
Usually people who quote this scripture do not go on to consider the next verse, which says, “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son.” This is very interesting. Our idea of good may be very different than God’s idea of good. We tend to think of good as being that which contributes to our comfort and pleasure. God’s idea of good is that our character conforms to Jesus’ character. And often it’s the tough stuff that builds character.
So we can be sure that as followers of Jesus, God works for our good. Just remember that the standard for good is Jesus!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
How to Love God
John 14:21. “Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me.”
We have been talking about how God loves us. He gives us a full life. He saves us from the consequences of our sin – Jesus laid down his life for you and for me. He gives us spiritual gifts and talents that give meaning and joy to our lives.
So how are we to love God? Like a good parent, God simply enjoys the company of his children. We don’t need to come with a big smile and clean clothes. We can come as we are – with burdens and junk. He wants to hear about what we are going through, and he wants to comfort us. He also wants us to appreciate him, which is what praise and worship are all about. We can sing a song to him or recount his wonderful attributes.
Jesus also says that we love him by being obedient. Now this sounds a lot like the long list of dos and don’ts that we resist. But it’s so different than that. God’s commands are truly for our own good. We can all admit to taking things into our own hands and experiencing a bad result. Jesus knows what is best for us. He knows that avoiding certain things will save us from pain. He knows that doing certain things will bring us joy. So being obedient doesn’t mean abiding by someone else’s arbitrary rules. It is rather a prescription for a good life, full of love, hope, meaning and peace.
We have been talking about how God loves us. He gives us a full life. He saves us from the consequences of our sin – Jesus laid down his life for you and for me. He gives us spiritual gifts and talents that give meaning and joy to our lives.
So how are we to love God? Like a good parent, God simply enjoys the company of his children. We don’t need to come with a big smile and clean clothes. We can come as we are – with burdens and junk. He wants to hear about what we are going through, and he wants to comfort us. He also wants us to appreciate him, which is what praise and worship are all about. We can sing a song to him or recount his wonderful attributes.
Jesus also says that we love him by being obedient. Now this sounds a lot like the long list of dos and don’ts that we resist. But it’s so different than that. God’s commands are truly for our own good. We can all admit to taking things into our own hands and experiencing a bad result. Jesus knows what is best for us. He knows that avoiding certain things will save us from pain. He knows that doing certain things will bring us joy. So being obedient doesn’t mean abiding by someone else’s arbitrary rules. It is rather a prescription for a good life, full of love, hope, meaning and peace.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The Full Life
John 10:9-10. “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Do you think you need to be saved from something? Many people would say no, using the rationale that they are leading a pretty good life in comparison to “bad” people. Jesus says that we do need saving, and he is the person to do it. He makes it clear that the standard for needing saving is not our behavior compared to the behavior of others. Rather, if we sin – and we all do to one extent or another – there is a negative consequence that requires someone to save us. We’ll explore this more at a later time.
The particular point I want to make today is that Jesus wants us to have a full (other translations say abundant) life. His love for us and plan for our lives is rich beyond measure. Living with a sense of purpose and peace along with wonderful relationships are what this full life is all about. Sometimes we think of following Jesus as a bunch of rules to follow, many of which sound like our fun is being taken away. But God knows what will truly make us happy, what will make our lives full. All it takes is saying to God, “Your way, not my way. I yield to you.” I know this to be true because I see it in my own life. My idea of the full life was but a pale comparison to what God has shown me, and I gladly follow him!
Do you think you need to be saved from something? Many people would say no, using the rationale that they are leading a pretty good life in comparison to “bad” people. Jesus says that we do need saving, and he is the person to do it. He makes it clear that the standard for needing saving is not our behavior compared to the behavior of others. Rather, if we sin – and we all do to one extent or another – there is a negative consequence that requires someone to save us. We’ll explore this more at a later time.
The particular point I want to make today is that Jesus wants us to have a full (other translations say abundant) life. His love for us and plan for our lives is rich beyond measure. Living with a sense of purpose and peace along with wonderful relationships are what this full life is all about. Sometimes we think of following Jesus as a bunch of rules to follow, many of which sound like our fun is being taken away. But God knows what will truly make us happy, what will make our lives full. All it takes is saying to God, “Your way, not my way. I yield to you.” I know this to be true because I see it in my own life. My idea of the full life was but a pale comparison to what God has shown me, and I gladly follow him!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Marriage
Mark 10:6-8. "But at the beginning of creation God 'made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one.”
Andrew and Mariah,
When a husband and wife have their first child, a million thoughts go through their minds. You fast-forward and wonder about what this child will grow up to be like. You have your own sense of what would be good for your child. But you also know that you’re not in control – you’re given a responsibility to love and train your child, and you trust that God will bring meaning and joy to your child’s life.
And so it is with mom and me, Andrew. You know that since you were born I prayed and hoped that you would go into full-time ministry. And here you are in South Africa. I always hoped that you would find a beautiful wife (as I did) who would share a strong faith with you, love you, encourage you and complement you. And here you are with Mariah. And I hoped that God would bring meaning and joy to your life. And so He has for both of you.
Mom and I joke that we are the “uni-couple” because we share so much of our lives at home, in ministry, and at work. God has given me a life partner who is a treasure of unquantifiable value. Based on my own wonderful experience with marriage, I am giddy (well, maybe filled with great joy) thinking about the wonderful life you two will have together.
May the Lord richly bless you all the days of your life together. Can’t wait to see you both in the new year!
Love,
Dad
Andrew and Mariah,
When a husband and wife have their first child, a million thoughts go through their minds. You fast-forward and wonder about what this child will grow up to be like. You have your own sense of what would be good for your child. But you also know that you’re not in control – you’re given a responsibility to love and train your child, and you trust that God will bring meaning and joy to your child’s life.
And so it is with mom and me, Andrew. You know that since you were born I prayed and hoped that you would go into full-time ministry. And here you are in South Africa. I always hoped that you would find a beautiful wife (as I did) who would share a strong faith with you, love you, encourage you and complement you. And here you are with Mariah. And I hoped that God would bring meaning and joy to your life. And so He has for both of you.
Mom and I joke that we are the “uni-couple” because we share so much of our lives at home, in ministry, and at work. God has given me a life partner who is a treasure of unquantifiable value. Based on my own wonderful experience with marriage, I am giddy (well, maybe filled with great joy) thinking about the wonderful life you two will have together.
May the Lord richly bless you all the days of your life together. Can’t wait to see you both in the new year!
Love,
Dad
Friday, September 19, 2008
Maybe There’s a Loving God
John 10:11. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
This is for you who are wondering about whether you should follow Jesus. Notice I did not say join a church or adopt the Christian religion. This is about you and Jesus. We all need to understand who Jesus is (the four gospels lay this out) and then decide. Don’t make a decision based on religion or religious people, because anything man-made is imperfect. Jesus, however, is perfect. He led a sinless life, loved people deeply, cared for the poor and dispossessed, and ultimately gave his life for us.
Following Jesus is not conditioned on our good behavior. I believe that we all know deep inside that there is some pretty ugly stuff about us. It’s certainly true for me. If God is holy (we talked about this a couple of weeks ago), meaning he is perfect and awesome and hates sin, then how can he love us with all of our junk? It may be hard to comprehend, but he is both a loving and a holy God. And another thing I believe is that we long to be loved, to be understood, to be accepted, to be valued by someone. Jesus is that person – even to the point of laying down his life for us. You can believe that.
I came across a song called “Maybe There’s a Loving God” by Sara Groves that really touched me. Perhaps you can see yourself in these lyrics. http://www.rhapsody.com/saragroves
For God so loved the world (you and me) that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
This is for you who are wondering about whether you should follow Jesus. Notice I did not say join a church or adopt the Christian religion. This is about you and Jesus. We all need to understand who Jesus is (the four gospels lay this out) and then decide. Don’t make a decision based on religion or religious people, because anything man-made is imperfect. Jesus, however, is perfect. He led a sinless life, loved people deeply, cared for the poor and dispossessed, and ultimately gave his life for us.
Following Jesus is not conditioned on our good behavior. I believe that we all know deep inside that there is some pretty ugly stuff about us. It’s certainly true for me. If God is holy (we talked about this a couple of weeks ago), meaning he is perfect and awesome and hates sin, then how can he love us with all of our junk? It may be hard to comprehend, but he is both a loving and a holy God. And another thing I believe is that we long to be loved, to be understood, to be accepted, to be valued by someone. Jesus is that person – even to the point of laying down his life for us. You can believe that.
I came across a song called “Maybe There’s a Loving God” by Sara Groves that really touched me. Perhaps you can see yourself in these lyrics. http://www.rhapsody.com/saragroves
For God so loved the world (you and me) that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Monday, September 15, 2008
More Than We Can Ask or Imagine
Ephesians 3:20-21. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”
I was thinking about this verse today because I am feeling inadequate about a task that is before me. Our church is out of space (a great problem to have!) and we are seeking God’s leading for what to do about this. The elders have asked me to head up the effort. I feel a bit like the kid with a few loaves and fishes whose lunch is supposed to feed 5000 people.
Scripture tells us that in our weakness God’s power comes though big (not a literal translation!). The verse above says that God is able to do more than we can ask for or even imagine. That simply blows me away, because I have a pretty big imagination! I can imagine a big facility that is ministering to all kinds of people who have all kinds of needs, where healing and reconciliation are occurring in the midst of great love.
Not only is God able to do even greater things, but the verse says that this happens through us. In other words, he will do mighty and miraculous things through ordinary people like you and me. Amazing.
Finally, the verse is actually a statement of praise to God, and we see that all of what God will do through us is to his glory. He deserves the credit. So I am comforted – and I hope you are as well – that God will do amazing things through you and me, despite our feelings of inadequacy. Show up with joyful hearts, a desire to love and serve, and with whatever gifts and talents we have – and God will do the rest. And to him be all the glory and honor!
I was thinking about this verse today because I am feeling inadequate about a task that is before me. Our church is out of space (a great problem to have!) and we are seeking God’s leading for what to do about this. The elders have asked me to head up the effort. I feel a bit like the kid with a few loaves and fishes whose lunch is supposed to feed 5000 people.
Scripture tells us that in our weakness God’s power comes though big (not a literal translation!). The verse above says that God is able to do more than we can ask for or even imagine. That simply blows me away, because I have a pretty big imagination! I can imagine a big facility that is ministering to all kinds of people who have all kinds of needs, where healing and reconciliation are occurring in the midst of great love.
Not only is God able to do even greater things, but the verse says that this happens through us. In other words, he will do mighty and miraculous things through ordinary people like you and me. Amazing.
Finally, the verse is actually a statement of praise to God, and we see that all of what God will do through us is to his glory. He deserves the credit. So I am comforted – and I hope you are as well – that God will do amazing things through you and me, despite our feelings of inadequacy. Show up with joyful hearts, a desire to love and serve, and with whatever gifts and talents we have – and God will do the rest. And to him be all the glory and honor!
Friday, September 12, 2008
All Are Equal in Christ
Galatians 3:28. “In Christ's family there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us you are all equal.” Followers of Jesus, especially in the organized church, don’t always get this right. Our human nature tends to classify people, and some classes are considered better than others. Scripture makes it clear that this is wrong thinking: there are to be no divisions and no hierarchies. We are equal in Christ’s family.
Scripture further describes us as God’s children and heirs to his kingdom. Even more than a good mom loves all of her children, God loves all of us. In fact he loves us so much that he was willing to allow his son Jesus to take the punishment for our sins.
So when we who follow Jesus call one another “brother” or “sister”, that’s exactly who we are in the eyes of God. I love using those terms because it’s a reminder that God isn’t interested in our divisions of people, he wants us to be one big, joy-filled, worshiping family!
So there is no higher or lower classes of people with God – he loves “the world”. God is in the business of reconciling all people to himself. As we think about followers of Jesus all over the world, of different races, genders, ethnicities, and socio-economic status – refer to them in your mind as sister and brother, for that’s who they are!
Scripture further describes us as God’s children and heirs to his kingdom. Even more than a good mom loves all of her children, God loves all of us. In fact he loves us so much that he was willing to allow his son Jesus to take the punishment for our sins.
So when we who follow Jesus call one another “brother” or “sister”, that’s exactly who we are in the eyes of God. I love using those terms because it’s a reminder that God isn’t interested in our divisions of people, he wants us to be one big, joy-filled, worshiping family!
So there is no higher or lower classes of people with God – he loves “the world”. God is in the business of reconciling all people to himself. As we think about followers of Jesus all over the world, of different races, genders, ethnicities, and socio-economic status – refer to them in your mind as sister and brother, for that’s who they are!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Test Everything
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22. “Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.”
A dozen words in three simple sentences. But they say a lot! First, we infer that are going to see good and evil every day. Our post-modern perspective gives lots of leeway to attitudes, beliefs, words and behaviors that are different than our own. And it is great to have an appreciation for our differences. However, scripture says that there is a line between good and evil. Every different opinion and behavior is not necessarily good, nor even okay. Some will be evil.
Which brings us to the second point: we need to make a judgment or evaluation. The common pushback to this thought is that we are not to judge others. And that is correct. God is the only judge of people, and he will judge you and me and everyone else one day. Then what are we to judge? We are to judge others’ words and actions. Paul says, “Test everything.” Measure the words and actions we encounter in our culture against the yardstick of good and evil. Is it good? Hold onto it. Is it evil? Avoid it.
Finally, we need to ask ourselves what yardstick to use. Personally, I use the yardstick of scripture, which is pretty clear on the subject. In simple terms, those words and actions that fulfill God’s two primary commandments to love him and love others are good. Those words and actions that tear down and abuse God and others are evil. So let’s not be afraid to name evil when we see it – and to avoid it.
A dozen words in three simple sentences. But they say a lot! First, we infer that are going to see good and evil every day. Our post-modern perspective gives lots of leeway to attitudes, beliefs, words and behaviors that are different than our own. And it is great to have an appreciation for our differences. However, scripture says that there is a line between good and evil. Every different opinion and behavior is not necessarily good, nor even okay. Some will be evil.
Which brings us to the second point: we need to make a judgment or evaluation. The common pushback to this thought is that we are not to judge others. And that is correct. God is the only judge of people, and he will judge you and me and everyone else one day. Then what are we to judge? We are to judge others’ words and actions. Paul says, “Test everything.” Measure the words and actions we encounter in our culture against the yardstick of good and evil. Is it good? Hold onto it. Is it evil? Avoid it.
Finally, we need to ask ourselves what yardstick to use. Personally, I use the yardstick of scripture, which is pretty clear on the subject. In simple terms, those words and actions that fulfill God’s two primary commandments to love him and love others are good. Those words and actions that tear down and abuse God and others are evil. So let’s not be afraid to name evil when we see it – and to avoid it.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Be Still
Psalm 46:10. “Be still and know that I am God.”
We are living in turbulent times to say the least. Rising energy prices, a soft economy, unstable foreign powers, poverty, disease, and wars abroad dominate headlines. In our own lives, we and those we love face health, job, relational, and other issues. We experience anxiety. We worry.
This is nothing new to God, nor is it a surprise. The names and dates and specifics change, but the same basic challenges to humankind persist. We want God to solve problems, especially our problems.
But God says to us, “Be still and know that I am God.” It’s not easy to be still when things aren’t going well. We tend to either put our heads down and grind toward a solution or allow anxiety to consume our thoughts. Instead, God wants us to be still – not in some idle way, but to be still in order that we might know that he is God.
When we stop what we are doing and contemplate God, he gives us perspective and peace. We remember his character – all-loving, all-knowing, and all-powerful. We remember that he sees backward and forward in time with equal clarity. We remember that he is a faithful God who works for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). We remember that in our own strength we cannot solve our big problems, and we remember that he says, “Trust me”. Not necessarily to solve every problem but rather to walk with us and guide us through life’s challenges. The best thing I can do when I am feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges is to be still and remind myself of who God is, and once again simply say to him, “I love you and I trust you – may your will be done in my life.”
We are living in turbulent times to say the least. Rising energy prices, a soft economy, unstable foreign powers, poverty, disease, and wars abroad dominate headlines. In our own lives, we and those we love face health, job, relational, and other issues. We experience anxiety. We worry.
This is nothing new to God, nor is it a surprise. The names and dates and specifics change, but the same basic challenges to humankind persist. We want God to solve problems, especially our problems.
But God says to us, “Be still and know that I am God.” It’s not easy to be still when things aren’t going well. We tend to either put our heads down and grind toward a solution or allow anxiety to consume our thoughts. Instead, God wants us to be still – not in some idle way, but to be still in order that we might know that he is God.
When we stop what we are doing and contemplate God, he gives us perspective and peace. We remember his character – all-loving, all-knowing, and all-powerful. We remember that he sees backward and forward in time with equal clarity. We remember that he is a faithful God who works for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). We remember that in our own strength we cannot solve our big problems, and we remember that he says, “Trust me”. Not necessarily to solve every problem but rather to walk with us and guide us through life’s challenges. The best thing I can do when I am feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges is to be still and remind myself of who God is, and once again simply say to him, “I love you and I trust you – may your will be done in my life.”
Friday, September 5, 2008
The Easy Yoke
Matthew 11:28-30. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
We love our independence. Freedom is a cherished value. And while there are many benefits that go along with freedom, there can be a downside. Paul puts his finger on that in his letter to the Galatians when he says, “do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature.” So we need to be careful that in our high regard for independence we don’t place ourselves and our self-interests above everything else, lest we think like a child who says, “I can do whatever I want – it’s a free country.”
Jesus shows us another way. He says, in effect, “Use your freedom to make an important choice – a choice to put on my yoke.” Now the idea of having a yoke around our neck like an ox is far from appealing. But voluntarily subjecting our freedom to one who loves us and knows what’s best for us starts to sound better. The fact is, we all put a yoke of one kind or another around our necks. It might be debt, or materialism, or quest for popularity, or desire to look attractive. It constrains us. We think we are free, but we’re not.
Jesus’ yoke is easy. It’s easy because he uses it to guide us toward what is best for us. His burden is easy for the same reason. I know from experience that the other yokes I’ve worn around are a lot harder than the one Jesus offers me. His fits fine and in fact feels real good.
We love our independence. Freedom is a cherished value. And while there are many benefits that go along with freedom, there can be a downside. Paul puts his finger on that in his letter to the Galatians when he says, “do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature.” So we need to be careful that in our high regard for independence we don’t place ourselves and our self-interests above everything else, lest we think like a child who says, “I can do whatever I want – it’s a free country.”
Jesus shows us another way. He says, in effect, “Use your freedom to make an important choice – a choice to put on my yoke.” Now the idea of having a yoke around our neck like an ox is far from appealing. But voluntarily subjecting our freedom to one who loves us and knows what’s best for us starts to sound better. The fact is, we all put a yoke of one kind or another around our necks. It might be debt, or materialism, or quest for popularity, or desire to look attractive. It constrains us. We think we are free, but we’re not.
Jesus’ yoke is easy. It’s easy because he uses it to guide us toward what is best for us. His burden is easy for the same reason. I know from experience that the other yokes I’ve worn around are a lot harder than the one Jesus offers me. His fits fine and in fact feels real good.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Holy God
Isaiah 6:1-5. “In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.’ At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. ‘Woe to me!’ I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.’”
Last time we talked about God loving us so much that he runs to us when we turn back to him. Now we see Isaiah encountering God, and it shakes him to his core. Not exactly the warm, fuzzy father figure.
We often want to put God in a box, to say in effect, “I have God figured out.” But God is so big and so multifaceted that we cannot do that, simply because our human limitations make us incapable to fully comprehend him. But we need to try, because he wants a relationship with us and relationships mean we really get to know each other.
So one facet of God is that we need to understand is that he is holy. He is awe-inspiring. He is so perfect and great and glorious and powerful that he can easily cause us to profoundly sense our inadequacy and sinfulness. And that’s okay, because he already knows this and yet still loves us. So, like Isaiah, we confess, and we worship him as the King, the LORD Almighty.
Last time we talked about God loving us so much that he runs to us when we turn back to him. Now we see Isaiah encountering God, and it shakes him to his core. Not exactly the warm, fuzzy father figure.
We often want to put God in a box, to say in effect, “I have God figured out.” But God is so big and so multifaceted that we cannot do that, simply because our human limitations make us incapable to fully comprehend him. But we need to try, because he wants a relationship with us and relationships mean we really get to know each other.
So one facet of God is that we need to understand is that he is holy. He is awe-inspiring. He is so perfect and great and glorious and powerful that he can easily cause us to profoundly sense our inadequacy and sinfulness. And that’s okay, because he already knows this and yet still loves us. So, like Isaiah, we confess, and we worship him as the King, the LORD Almighty.
Monday, September 1, 2008
God's Love
Luke 15:20. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” In the familiar parable of the lost son (or prodigal son), the father (God) allows his son (you and me) to exercise free will, and the son chooses to reject his father and goes on a wild living binge. Finally coming to his senses, he resolves to seek forgiveness from his father. He plans to tell his father that he is no longer worthy to be his son, and to ask for a job like the other hired hands. Upon returning to his father’s house, the son is amazed to see that his father is ecstatic, and the father promptly throws a party to celebrate his son’s return. It’s an utterly compelling message of God’s forgiveness and unconditional love.
Verse 20 touches my heart deeply. This is the God whom I want as my God. The one who knows I’ve just screwed up (again), and still loves me. The one who doesn’t even wait for a confession – he just wants me to come to him and he will run to me. The one who doesn’t look disapprovingly at my behavior, but throws his arms around me. He loves you in the same way.
Many years ago I turned back to God and experienced this love for the first time. Because I am a sinful man and tend to act independently of God, I find myself needing to turn back to him every day. And it’s not a bad deal to have the God of the universe run to me and throw his arms around me each day!
Verse 20 touches my heart deeply. This is the God whom I want as my God. The one who knows I’ve just screwed up (again), and still loves me. The one who doesn’t even wait for a confession – he just wants me to come to him and he will run to me. The one who doesn’t look disapprovingly at my behavior, but throws his arms around me. He loves you in the same way.
Many years ago I turned back to God and experienced this love for the first time. Because I am a sinful man and tend to act independently of God, I find myself needing to turn back to him every day. And it’s not a bad deal to have the God of the universe run to me and throw his arms around me each day!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Unity through Humility
Philippians 2:3. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves” (The Message uses the phrase “help others to get ahead”). As a long-time student of effective leadership, I understand the impact that a group of people working together can make as compared to the efforts of an individual. We learn this basic principle in grade school through team activities. Later, we observe organizations and nations working together and accomplishing incredible good.
I have also come to understand that unity is indispensable to team effectiveness. This states the obvious, but you need only look at the performance of sports teams loaded with guys concerned mainly about themselves and you see what I mean.
Let me go one step further. I believe that unity is only possible through humility. Scripture says we need to value others highly and put their interests ahead of our own. My pride and ego often get in the way of this – I am quick to think that I have the best plan. But I have learned (over a long time and not without some pain!) that there are many, many other perspectives and experiences that I need to respect. This is not simply an exercise in self-deprecation – rather, I get the benefit of learning from others and I am blessed when I can “help others get ahead.”
One of the coolest things about the bible is that it contains both truth and practical wisdom. I have found this verse to be enormously helpful in my everyday life.
I have also come to understand that unity is indispensable to team effectiveness. This states the obvious, but you need only look at the performance of sports teams loaded with guys concerned mainly about themselves and you see what I mean.
Let me go one step further. I believe that unity is only possible through humility. Scripture says we need to value others highly and put their interests ahead of our own. My pride and ego often get in the way of this – I am quick to think that I have the best plan. But I have learned (over a long time and not without some pain!) that there are many, many other perspectives and experiences that I need to respect. This is not simply an exercise in self-deprecation – rather, I get the benefit of learning from others and I am blessed when I can “help others get ahead.”
One of the coolest things about the bible is that it contains both truth and practical wisdom. I have found this verse to be enormously helpful in my everyday life.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Experiencing Joy
James 1:2-3. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” Hello? This doesn’t exactly sound like joy to me!
The dictionary defines joy as “the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying.” In our culture, that often means something temporal or experiential. When it comes to the Christian faith, joy means gladness or deep satisfaction that comes from a sense of knowing one’s identity and purpose.
In essence, that “something exceptionally good or satisfying” is God himself and our relationship with him. We have our identity in him – scripture says we are his children and are greatly loved and valued by him. He desires that we love him in return. We also have our purpose in him – to accomplish that unique work which he prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).
James understood that the work of the early church was to spread the good news of Jesus Christ throughout the Roman Empire (not exactly supportive of the effort) in a loving and winsome manner. He also understood that there is no gain without pain, and so he and the early church members were able to face trials with a joyful heart, knowing that their identity in Christ was secure and their purpose was clear.
May we earnestly seek God in order to know with great clarity our identity and purpose – and then experience great joy no matter what the circumstances of life may hold for us!
The dictionary defines joy as “the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying.” In our culture, that often means something temporal or experiential. When it comes to the Christian faith, joy means gladness or deep satisfaction that comes from a sense of knowing one’s identity and purpose.
In essence, that “something exceptionally good or satisfying” is God himself and our relationship with him. We have our identity in him – scripture says we are his children and are greatly loved and valued by him. He desires that we love him in return. We also have our purpose in him – to accomplish that unique work which he prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).
James understood that the work of the early church was to spread the good news of Jesus Christ throughout the Roman Empire (not exactly supportive of the effort) in a loving and winsome manner. He also understood that there is no gain without pain, and so he and the early church members were able to face trials with a joyful heart, knowing that their identity in Christ was secure and their purpose was clear.
May we earnestly seek God in order to know with great clarity our identity and purpose – and then experience great joy no matter what the circumstances of life may hold for us!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Trusting God
Thanks for the comments! I’m encouraged to continue…
Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” Many of you know that this is the verse from which our company name, Straight Path Management, is derived. It is paradoxical that a firm whose service is expert advice and counsel would take its name from a verse that confesses its lack of understanding! But here’s our challenge: as bright, well-educated people, we rely heavily on our own understanding, often ignoring God or fitting him into our perception of truth and reality. We need a dose of humility that acknowledges God as all-knowing and all-loving. This can be in the form of a simple prayer that says, “Lord, I can’t figure this out and I need your guidance” or, “Lord, I think I have this figured out but I want to know your plan and not assume that my way is the best way.”
Finally, we need to trust God. Trust that he loves us the way he says he does and that he wants what is best for us. We don’t always see this in the midst of a challenging time, but God is in the business of growing our character, not our comfort!
Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” Many of you know that this is the verse from which our company name, Straight Path Management, is derived. It is paradoxical that a firm whose service is expert advice and counsel would take its name from a verse that confesses its lack of understanding! But here’s our challenge: as bright, well-educated people, we rely heavily on our own understanding, often ignoring God or fitting him into our perception of truth and reality. We need a dose of humility that acknowledges God as all-knowing and all-loving. This can be in the form of a simple prayer that says, “Lord, I can’t figure this out and I need your guidance” or, “Lord, I think I have this figured out but I want to know your plan and not assume that my way is the best way.”
Finally, we need to trust God. Trust that he loves us the way he says he does and that he wants what is best for us. We don’t always see this in the midst of a challenging time, but God is in the business of growing our character, not our comfort!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
August 24, 2008
Okay, I'm new at this so bear with me. With Andrew is South Africa, Chris in India and Lindsay in Japan, I wanted to share a daily devotion to help us stay connected spiritually. I hope that our immediate family and others will visit this blog regularly, and I am trusting that the Lord will use this to draw us closer to himself and to one another.
Matthew 5:16. "Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and praise your father in heaven." I'm beginning here because this is my "life verse", a verse in scripture that has particular meaning for me. Jesus gives us two important thoughts here. First, we are to do good works. To me, this means we are to love others in tangible ways, serving them holistically. The cool thing is that God has created us indidually so how I love people will be different than how you do. We don't have to compare ourselves to others. God has given us unique talents, gifts and experiences that he wants us to use for his good purposes. Second, the reason we do good works is to bring praise, credit and glory to God. It's not about us - what credit or affirmation we get is not important. Rather, we want people to naturally give the credit to God when we do good works. This means that we need to be identified with God and, in a winsome way, help point people to him.
Well, that's it for now. Comments encouraged! I love you.
Dad
Matthew 5:16. "Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and praise your father in heaven." I'm beginning here because this is my "life verse", a verse in scripture that has particular meaning for me. Jesus gives us two important thoughts here. First, we are to do good works. To me, this means we are to love others in tangible ways, serving them holistically. The cool thing is that God has created us indidually so how I love people will be different than how you do. We don't have to compare ourselves to others. God has given us unique talents, gifts and experiences that he wants us to use for his good purposes. Second, the reason we do good works is to bring praise, credit and glory to God. It's not about us - what credit or affirmation we get is not important. Rather, we want people to naturally give the credit to God when we do good works. This means that we need to be identified with God and, in a winsome way, help point people to him.
Well, that's it for now. Comments encouraged! I love you.
Dad
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
