When I was a kid I was pretty small, but boy could I eat a lot. Thanksgiving was one meal where I would have to unbutton the top button of my pants to make room for more.
This gets me to thinking about being full. Many were full yesterday after huge meals consisting of way more than is necessary of many good things. Many did without and it is so easy to forget them, the hungry, the cold, the abandoned. Some are empty, some are full. We fill ourselves with lots of things - our minds with thoughts, our bellys with food, our homes with stuff; but what about being full of God?
Ephesians 5:18 says "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit."
To live full of God is a special gift from God. Filled with the Spirit of God who wants to lead us and guide us in God's Ways rather than us being filled with substances that often control us. Oh to be full of God and basking in the Spirit-empowered life that can withstand any storm. That leads us to give thanks to God and engage in Spirit-led activities with others that lead others to put their trust in God as well.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
2 Ways
So you think you know which way to go
the way you've always wanted to
So you steal away before its light
to walk the road that looks so good
The comfort you seek is just not there
all you're finding is empty fare
So you walk and walk and walk some more
not knowing what's around the bend
You think it leads to a better shore
You really don't know what's in store
It hits you somehow that you are wrong
Something happens and you recall
The truth floods in and softens your heart
The Word you tried hard to ignore
You've followed false gods through the wide gate
You realize it's almost too late
So you turn around and bend the knee
to Him who knows you, humbly
Jesus is the Gate, the only Way
the only choice at end of Day
the way you've always wanted to
So you steal away before its light
to walk the road that looks so good
The comfort you seek is just not there
all you're finding is empty fare
So you walk and walk and walk some more
not knowing what's around the bend
You think it leads to a better shore
You really don't know what's in store
It hits you somehow that you are wrong
Something happens and you recall
The truth floods in and softens your heart
The Word you tried hard to ignore
You've followed false gods through the wide gate
You realize it's almost too late
So you turn around and bend the knee
to Him who knows you, humbly
Jesus is the Gate, the only Way
the only choice at end of Day
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Give Thanks to the Lord for He is Good
Psalm 136:1 begins, "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His loving kindness is everlasting." That last part about His loving kindness being everlasting is repeated 26 times in this psalm, an amazing reminder of just how good and faithful God is. He can be trusted and followed fully.
It is good to take time to thank God; to remember, to reflect, to regain equilibrium in a world that is so un-God-focused that it consistently knocks us off balance.
So today I say "Thank you Jesus" for how good You are! Thank you Jesus for saving my soul! Thank you Jesus for substituting yourself for me! Thank you Jesus."
It is good to give thanks to God. He "inhabits the praises of His people". He is pleased with pure praise, pleased with our offering of thanks.
In the long walk of faith, as we trust God to bring fruit from our lives, trusting in Jesus as our solid foundation in a shaky world, we live with the reality that everything we see here is not all there is. There are future realities in play - heaven awaits. "Thank you Jesus"
It is good to take time to thank God; to remember, to reflect, to regain equilibrium in a world that is so un-God-focused that it consistently knocks us off balance.
So today I say "Thank you Jesus" for how good You are! Thank you Jesus for saving my soul! Thank you Jesus for substituting yourself for me! Thank you Jesus."
It is good to give thanks to God. He "inhabits the praises of His people". He is pleased with pure praise, pleased with our offering of thanks.
In the long walk of faith, as we trust God to bring fruit from our lives, trusting in Jesus as our solid foundation in a shaky world, we live with the reality that everything we see here is not all there is. There are future realities in play - heaven awaits. "Thank you Jesus"
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Life at the Crossroads
It has been said that "All life concentrates on man at the crossroads". What does that mean? Life is full of choices. Daily, hourly, moment by moment. In every situation we have a choice to make.
Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount with amazing tenderness,embracing with His blessings those who felt least embraceable. In matthew 7:13-14 He balances it with tough realities. God's Word not only comforts but challenges and corrects as well. Jesus puts clear choices before us: two gates (Jesus or self), two roads (suffering in Christ, or self-focused life), two crowds (the many wayward or focused few), and two destinations (heaven or hell, life or death).
Our choices are based on certain assumptions about God, others and ourselves as well as commitments God has made to keep His promises. Ultimately, we cannot really make any choice without God, who gives and sustains life. We are to choose, remembering that God is sovereign over all and He is in control, that His choices drive ours. That "it does not depend on the man who wills or the man who runs but on God who has mercy" (Rom. 9:14-19). And at the same time God wants us to choose daily, hour by hour, moment by moment. I rest content unknowing what only the all-knowing One knows fully. Hard to figure out but He is big enough to handle that quandary. We choose and God is sovereign. Our choices never trump His. His choice comes first.
Going in God's way necessitates a desire to go the way God directs. Like Abram being called by God to leave his homeland and go to the land God would show him (Genesis 12:1-4). Abram got up and went at God's call. He was called by God and he decided to follow. His desire drove His direction. God in grace called him and enabled him and he followed by faith. The choices we make reveal our desire and determine our direction. We are to "ask for the ancient paths" (Jer. 6:16); to "ask and it shall be given" (Matt. 7:7). The "path of the upright leads to life" (Prov. 15:19); the "path of life" (Ps. 16:11); is lighted by God's Word, "a light to our path" (Ps. 119:105). God desires movement on our part, in His direction.
Sticking to the narrow way means standing firm in the midst of suffering. The road marked by suffering is one that Job experienced, and in all of it he did not sin with his lips or deny God, he was tried and tested and came forth as gold refined by fire. God's ways are best; they are from of old - they are proven, they are tested, they have proved to be good. Everyone who has ever followed has done so in His strength, by His enabling, for His glory.
All who come to faith in Christ have "passed out of death into life" (John 5:24; 1 John 3:14); to be nourished by the "Bread of Life" (John 6:35); "called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Pet. 2:9-10); called to "walk in newness of life" (Rom. 6:4); in "Christ who is our life" (Col. 3:4); to persevere and one day receive the "crown of life" (James 1:12). Jesus tasted death for us that we might have life (Heb. 2:9). Therefore the second death has no power over us (Rev. 20:6). We who have fled for refuge to Jesus, who on the cross paid our penalty, substituting Himself in or place, are now and will forever be, living in the reality of life in Christ because of Christ. Our names were written before the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb slain (Rev. 13:8-10).
Jesus' Gate and Road are two saving realities that we must focus our attention on. The Gate is His gracious substitutionary death and resurrection, in which we believe and are saved. His Road is the way of His gracious commands to follow Him in rugged daily discipleship. It's a once-for-all decision and a long walk at the same time. Because of Christ's power we can remain steadfast in the midst of difficult life, making moment by moment decisions; staying and kept on the road that leads to life by Him who is the Life.
Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount with amazing tenderness,embracing with His blessings those who felt least embraceable. In matthew 7:13-14 He balances it with tough realities. God's Word not only comforts but challenges and corrects as well. Jesus puts clear choices before us: two gates (Jesus or self), two roads (suffering in Christ, or self-focused life), two crowds (the many wayward or focused few), and two destinations (heaven or hell, life or death).
Our choices are based on certain assumptions about God, others and ourselves as well as commitments God has made to keep His promises. Ultimately, we cannot really make any choice without God, who gives and sustains life. We are to choose, remembering that God is sovereign over all and He is in control, that His choices drive ours. That "it does not depend on the man who wills or the man who runs but on God who has mercy" (Rom. 9:14-19). And at the same time God wants us to choose daily, hour by hour, moment by moment. I rest content unknowing what only the all-knowing One knows fully. Hard to figure out but He is big enough to handle that quandary. We choose and God is sovereign. Our choices never trump His. His choice comes first.
Going in God's way necessitates a desire to go the way God directs. Like Abram being called by God to leave his homeland and go to the land God would show him (Genesis 12:1-4). Abram got up and went at God's call. He was called by God and he decided to follow. His desire drove His direction. God in grace called him and enabled him and he followed by faith. The choices we make reveal our desire and determine our direction. We are to "ask for the ancient paths" (Jer. 6:16); to "ask and it shall be given" (Matt. 7:7). The "path of the upright leads to life" (Prov. 15:19); the "path of life" (Ps. 16:11); is lighted by God's Word, "a light to our path" (Ps. 119:105). God desires movement on our part, in His direction.
Sticking to the narrow way means standing firm in the midst of suffering. The road marked by suffering is one that Job experienced, and in all of it he did not sin with his lips or deny God, he was tried and tested and came forth as gold refined by fire. God's ways are best; they are from of old - they are proven, they are tested, they have proved to be good. Everyone who has ever followed has done so in His strength, by His enabling, for His glory.
All who come to faith in Christ have "passed out of death into life" (John 5:24; 1 John 3:14); to be nourished by the "Bread of Life" (John 6:35); "called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Pet. 2:9-10); called to "walk in newness of life" (Rom. 6:4); in "Christ who is our life" (Col. 3:4); to persevere and one day receive the "crown of life" (James 1:12). Jesus tasted death for us that we might have life (Heb. 2:9). Therefore the second death has no power over us (Rev. 20:6). We who have fled for refuge to Jesus, who on the cross paid our penalty, substituting Himself in or place, are now and will forever be, living in the reality of life in Christ because of Christ. Our names were written before the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb slain (Rev. 13:8-10).
Jesus' Gate and Road are two saving realities that we must focus our attention on. The Gate is His gracious substitutionary death and resurrection, in which we believe and are saved. His Road is the way of His gracious commands to follow Him in rugged daily discipleship. It's a once-for-all decision and a long walk at the same time. Because of Christ's power we can remain steadfast in the midst of difficult life, making moment by moment decisions; staying and kept on the road that leads to life by Him who is the Life.
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Surprising Narrowness of Jesus
The Sermon on the Mount is wide on mercy, so Jesus talking of narrow roads can seem surprising.
Jesus is the only Gate that leads to life. We must go through the salvation gate; God giving us the ability to decide to follow, based ultimately upon His choice of us before the foundation of the world, but explained by us as a moment in time or process choice that we make. We do not choose Him, Jesus chooses us. We cooperate by faith.
The salvation gate gets us on the sanctification road of discipleship. Not an easy way but a rough way, a way marked by suffering and persecution. It is the way Jesus calls us to and the way that leads to life. It is counter-intuitive to us, we think the easy way would lead to life.
The pattern of salvation then sanctification is seen in the New Testament. Matthew 16:13-28 follows the pattern: Peter confesses Christ and then is called to self-denying discipleship. In Matthew, Jesus' call to the fishermen (4:7) comes before His long call to discipleship in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7).
Jesus is the Author and Perfector of faith (Hebrews 12:3) and so He calls us to faith and then develops that same faith. He takes us from start to finish. And all the while, we make choices along the way, enveloped in His sovereign hand.
Jesus is the only Gate that leads to life. We must go through the salvation gate; God giving us the ability to decide to follow, based ultimately upon His choice of us before the foundation of the world, but explained by us as a moment in time or process choice that we make. We do not choose Him, Jesus chooses us. We cooperate by faith.
The salvation gate gets us on the sanctification road of discipleship. Not an easy way but a rough way, a way marked by suffering and persecution. It is the way Jesus calls us to and the way that leads to life. It is counter-intuitive to us, we think the easy way would lead to life.
The pattern of salvation then sanctification is seen in the New Testament. Matthew 16:13-28 follows the pattern: Peter confesses Christ and then is called to self-denying discipleship. In Matthew, Jesus' call to the fishermen (4:7) comes before His long call to discipleship in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7).
Jesus is the Author and Perfector of faith (Hebrews 12:3) and so He calls us to faith and then develops that same faith. He takes us from start to finish. And all the while, we make choices along the way, enveloped in His sovereign hand.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
The Choices Jesus Lays Before Us
Life is filled with many decisions. In Matthew 7:13-14 we come face to face with choices Jesus lays before us. We must choose between a life lived for God or a life lived for self.
To those who have chosen the wide gate, the broad way, the many who have chosen the way that leads to destruction I would just ask: how's that going for you? You may answer that all is well, you do not have a problem in the world. The sky may look clear right now, but according to Jesus the end will not reward you with life, but death, for that choice.
Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount with untold tenderness, embracing in His blessings those who felt least embraceable. To them He says with Isaiah (49:16) "I have engraved you on the palms of My hands." They are special and unique in God's eyes, beloved. Now He concludes the sermon with tough realities. The Sermon the Mount is not an intellectual option, a set of suggestions we can take or leave, one philosophy among many. No, Jesus makes it clear there is an exclusive way to live.
Life outside of loyalty to Christ is full of plenty of room (the broad way) for any moral permission - giving way to tempting things that seem to make life more free but really enslaves. The wide way says "do whatever pleases you", the rough way of discipleship says "do whatever pleases God". People, sadly even Christians, love to say "God is all about unconditional love - which means God wants us to be happy and we can do whatever we want whenever we want." That leads to people thinking "everything is the same" and "everything is relative" and "do whatever you want because all roads lead to God". Jesus says differently - He says there is a way that leads to life and a way that leads to death.
The Jesus way leads to life. Are you on that road right now?
To those who have chosen the wide gate, the broad way, the many who have chosen the way that leads to destruction I would just ask: how's that going for you? You may answer that all is well, you do not have a problem in the world. The sky may look clear right now, but according to Jesus the end will not reward you with life, but death, for that choice.
Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount with untold tenderness, embracing in His blessings those who felt least embraceable. To them He says with Isaiah (49:16) "I have engraved you on the palms of My hands." They are special and unique in God's eyes, beloved. Now He concludes the sermon with tough realities. The Sermon the Mount is not an intellectual option, a set of suggestions we can take or leave, one philosophy among many. No, Jesus makes it clear there is an exclusive way to live.
Life outside of loyalty to Christ is full of plenty of room (the broad way) for any moral permission - giving way to tempting things that seem to make life more free but really enslaves. The wide way says "do whatever pleases you", the rough way of discipleship says "do whatever pleases God". People, sadly even Christians, love to say "God is all about unconditional love - which means God wants us to be happy and we can do whatever we want whenever we want." That leads to people thinking "everything is the same" and "everything is relative" and "do whatever you want because all roads lead to God". Jesus says differently - He says there is a way that leads to life and a way that leads to death.
The Jesus way leads to life. Are you on that road right now?
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Life is Full of Choices We Cannot Make Without God
Our choices are based on certain assumptions. Assumptions about God, ourselves, others, how things work, what is necessary and required in life to function appropriately.
We need to make sure that these assumptions line up with God's Word rightly handled. Not following a system of thought based upon man's ideas about the Bible, but on what God's Word clearly and plainly says.
That takes hard work and diligent study. It takes deep thought and pure motives. It takes a Spirit-in-dwelt person wielding the Sword of the Spirit in God's strength. It takes humility, recognizing that we are not over the Bible but under its authority.
Making choices based on God's counsel takes a recognition that we really cannot make any choice without God who gives us life and breath. Of course we make plenty of choices without acknowledging God; and the unregenerate live without thought for God; but humankind cannot do anything without Him in Whom we live and move and have our being. He holds everything together by His Word. He is sovereign over all.
In the Christian context, those on the Jesus Way, who are born again by the Spirit of God by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, are unable to believe, or do anything in life, without God's work - His prevenient working in grace to animate their souls and give them the ability to choose what is good, right, true and God-honoring.
This is both comforting and challenging news. Comforting in that we are often faithless but God remains faithful to who He is and all His promises. Challenging because we are called by Him who is the Way (John 14:6) to choose the narrow way,the way of suffering, the way that leads to life on a daily basis. May you choose wisely, in God's strength.
We need to make sure that these assumptions line up with God's Word rightly handled. Not following a system of thought based upon man's ideas about the Bible, but on what God's Word clearly and plainly says.
That takes hard work and diligent study. It takes deep thought and pure motives. It takes a Spirit-in-dwelt person wielding the Sword of the Spirit in God's strength. It takes humility, recognizing that we are not over the Bible but under its authority.
Making choices based on God's counsel takes a recognition that we really cannot make any choice without God who gives us life and breath. Of course we make plenty of choices without acknowledging God; and the unregenerate live without thought for God; but humankind cannot do anything without Him in Whom we live and move and have our being. He holds everything together by His Word. He is sovereign over all.
In the Christian context, those on the Jesus Way, who are born again by the Spirit of God by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, are unable to believe, or do anything in life, without God's work - His prevenient working in grace to animate their souls and give them the ability to choose what is good, right, true and God-honoring.
This is both comforting and challenging news. Comforting in that we are often faithless but God remains faithful to who He is and all His promises. Challenging because we are called by Him who is the Way (John 14:6) to choose the narrow way,the way of suffering, the way that leads to life on a daily basis. May you choose wisely, in God's strength.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Choices Everywhere amidst Sovereignty
Life is one long continuous choice. You cannot live without choosing. Jesus spoke of the choices we make so often - in the form of questions, commands, corrections and comfort. Do you want to get well? Do you wish to follow? Is anyone thirsty? Have I been so long with you...? No one can serve two masters. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Many will say to Me on that day, Lord...and I will say I never knew you. Enter by the narrow gate. Do not work for food that perishes. Come to Me, all you who are weary and heavy-laden.
The words are familiar and so are the choices they imply and invite. Choices we make reveal our desires and determine our direction. To the few Jesus offers the small gate, the road marked with suffering, the heavenly destination. We choose which way we will go, and all the while a silent, sovereign hand is guiding our path, leading us, guiding us, animating us, inspiring us. We choose, but God first moves.
Blessed assurance, God is in control. And we make choices all day long. God uses totally depraved sinners turned saints; who are unconditioanlly elected to receive unmerited favor; who believe that Christ lovingly atoned for their sins; who are captured by irresistable grace; and empowered to persevere. Can we adequately explain it? We live with daily with the challenge. I for one rest content unknowing what only the all-knowing One knows fully.
The words are familiar and so are the choices they imply and invite. Choices we make reveal our desires and determine our direction. To the few Jesus offers the small gate, the road marked with suffering, the heavenly destination. We choose which way we will go, and all the while a silent, sovereign hand is guiding our path, leading us, guiding us, animating us, inspiring us. We choose, but God first moves.
Blessed assurance, God is in control. And we make choices all day long. God uses totally depraved sinners turned saints; who are unconditioanlly elected to receive unmerited favor; who believe that Christ lovingly atoned for their sins; who are captured by irresistable grace; and empowered to persevere. Can we adequately explain it? We live with daily with the challenge. I for one rest content unknowing what only the all-knowing One knows fully.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
One Way to Life
2 Gates
Entry given to the longing
no access to masses thronging
sent to get a another pass
kept from being just a number
anticipating future
of life spent in control
knowing many fail to measure
still there is no easy way
The lock is open, latch undone
friend of saint
and brother sinner
finishing the setting sun
2 Roads
The high way, very long
Many take the short-cut found
upon the way when no one's looking
they miss the sentry on the tower
Power stays where cost is none
weakness follows seeking men
no one knows the full disclosure
only God can get that done
Never ending isn't accurate
marathon is better pace
hit the wall and finish course
right away we see the race
2 Crowds
Many are the streets of danger
many are the costs of gold
living in the chosen city
are the people to behold
From the center we adore Him
from a distance mockers mock
there is not a moment longer
where they cannot see the clock
Crowds can be so very fickle
turning on the tide come in
so we wait for better weather
so we wait for welcomed Friend
2 Destinations
The hill is steep
fraught with danger
of sideswipes and frightening figures
swoop down upon the chosen ones
They do not care to settle in
upon the sound of muffled voices
hushed to silence with one word
the name of Jesus stills all vices
Precious few find golden home
many seek a stronghold shelter
remnant chooses still small voice
a dwelling that is far far better
Entry given to the longing
no access to masses thronging
sent to get a another pass
kept from being just a number
anticipating future
of life spent in control
knowing many fail to measure
still there is no easy way
The lock is open, latch undone
friend of saint
and brother sinner
finishing the setting sun
2 Roads
The high way, very long
Many take the short-cut found
upon the way when no one's looking
they miss the sentry on the tower
Power stays where cost is none
weakness follows seeking men
no one knows the full disclosure
only God can get that done
Never ending isn't accurate
marathon is better pace
hit the wall and finish course
right away we see the race
2 Crowds
Many are the streets of danger
many are the costs of gold
living in the chosen city
are the people to behold
From the center we adore Him
from a distance mockers mock
there is not a moment longer
where they cannot see the clock
Crowds can be so very fickle
turning on the tide come in
so we wait for better weather
so we wait for welcomed Friend
2 Destinations
The hill is steep
fraught with danger
of sideswipes and frightening figures
swoop down upon the chosen ones
They do not care to settle in
upon the sound of muffled voices
hushed to silence with one word
the name of Jesus stills all vices
Precious few find golden home
many seek a stronghold shelter
remnant chooses still small voice
a dwelling that is far far better
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Whiners Beware, Jesus Sees You
Isaiah 26:3-4 "The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace; because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord we have an everlasting Rock."
Sure, there are plenty of people for whom worry and anxiety over necessities in life are a daily struggle. But there are also those who take for granted God's provision because it just is always there and they do not worry about it. Trust is an issue for them as well. They take unbelief a step further - they don't just question God's provision; they complain about it. "I don't like that kind of food"; "I have nothing to wear"; "That tastes terrible"; "You don't have my brand of soft drink?"
Fear gives way to discontent, revealing a heart that is full of itself and ignorant to the fact that many go without. Theirs (or should I say ours, or mine) is the too-easy life of getting whatever they want, whenever they want it. And if you don't have the cash, it's not a problem, you can just swipe the card.
That kind of living is not the kind Jesus is talking about when He said "Do not be anxious for your life". He was referring to those who were doing, or about to do, without. He was dealing with needs, not wants; daily necessities, not luxuries. So what do Jesus' words in Matthew 6:25-34 have to say to us who seldom if ever have to wonder where our next meal comes from? To those whose biggest worry is not whether we'll have clothes to wear but more about getting the newest line of clothes or new cell phone on the first day they are out.
Maybe if we felt the need for the necessities of life a bit more we would get what Jesus is getting at. Maybe if we needed Him more we would want Him more. Maybe if we were seeking His rule in our lives more fully we wouldn't get ourselves into such messes. Maybe if we were wrapped up in Jesus' rulership and righteousness we'd appreciate the simple things in life - like playing with our kids and talking with a friend or helping someone who really needs our help. Maybe we'd want to pray and read God's Word so much nothing could keep us from it. Maybe if we didn't have so many diversions and distractions we'd cling to Jesus for dear life because we'd realize He is our life.
I need to remember this the next time I am tempted to whine about things not being how I like them or going the way I want. Jesus sees everything and everyone - and that is a sobering, and comforting, thought.
Sure, there are plenty of people for whom worry and anxiety over necessities in life are a daily struggle. But there are also those who take for granted God's provision because it just is always there and they do not worry about it. Trust is an issue for them as well. They take unbelief a step further - they don't just question God's provision; they complain about it. "I don't like that kind of food"; "I have nothing to wear"; "That tastes terrible"; "You don't have my brand of soft drink?"
Fear gives way to discontent, revealing a heart that is full of itself and ignorant to the fact that many go without. Theirs (or should I say ours, or mine) is the too-easy life of getting whatever they want, whenever they want it. And if you don't have the cash, it's not a problem, you can just swipe the card.
That kind of living is not the kind Jesus is talking about when He said "Do not be anxious for your life". He was referring to those who were doing, or about to do, without. He was dealing with needs, not wants; daily necessities, not luxuries. So what do Jesus' words in Matthew 6:25-34 have to say to us who seldom if ever have to wonder where our next meal comes from? To those whose biggest worry is not whether we'll have clothes to wear but more about getting the newest line of clothes or new cell phone on the first day they are out.
Maybe if we felt the need for the necessities of life a bit more we would get what Jesus is getting at. Maybe if we needed Him more we would want Him more. Maybe if we were seeking His rule in our lives more fully we wouldn't get ourselves into such messes. Maybe if we were wrapped up in Jesus' rulership and righteousness we'd appreciate the simple things in life - like playing with our kids and talking with a friend or helping someone who really needs our help. Maybe we'd want to pray and read God's Word so much nothing could keep us from it. Maybe if we didn't have so many diversions and distractions we'd cling to Jesus for dear life because we'd realize He is our life.
I need to remember this the next time I am tempted to whine about things not being how I like them or going the way I want. Jesus sees everything and everyone - and that is a sobering, and comforting, thought.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The Golden Rule: What Jesus Really Wants From You
In Jesus' economy there is what is known as the "Golden Rule" (Matt. 7:12). It is the epitome of rules, the "gold standard" of ways to live and relate to others. People have wrestled with it for centuries. Philosophers and students of ethics have torn it apart, dismantled it and tried to put it back together in a more pragmatic, easier, less demanding form. But Jesus standard is perfect.
In the Olympics they give gold, silver and bronze medals. Everyone remembers who won gold, not silver or bronze. They are inferior prizes, relatively speaking. With regard to the Golden Rule, some say they live by it but what they really live by is an inferior version. There's the Silver Rule that says "Do not do to others what you do not want done to you", which is easy to follow, just do nothing. Or the Bronze Rule which says, "Do to others before they do to you". There's also the Rusty Metal Rule, "do anything you want to others with no regard for anyone, then run fast!".
Matt. 7:12 has been misused and twisted by many; my prayer is that true followers of Christ would know and live it's true meaning.
The 1st step in understanding Matt. 7:12 is to figure out what "therefore" relates to. Could be 7:7-11; because God gives good gifts Jesus’ disciples should live by this rule out of gratitude. Or 7:1-6; instead of judging others, we should treat them as we want to be treated. Most likely it refers to everything so far in the Sermon on the Mount: Jesus is saying, "therefore, in light of everything I have said about the true direction God's Word points, obey the Golden Rule". It gives a short summary of the Kingdom righteousness Jesus requires and brings about in His people.
This verse, in context, shows what God expects of Christians. If you claim to be a "follower of Jesus" you cannot escape several things that God expects of you with regard to Matt. 7:12.
1. God wants you to know Him and His love. Seeing 7:12 as just one moral option among many will lead you away from Jesus; to think you are able to live without God. Mankind either tries to be God or deny Him. Ps. 14:1 says "the fool has said in his heart there is no God". 7:12 assumes a higher authority than self: God Himself. There is no golden rule without God. He wants you to know His love for you, which is immeasurable and incomprehensible, knowable only through Jesus Christ. (John 17:3; 1 John 5:11-12).
2. God wants you to choose wisely for His glory and other's good. Jesus calls us to action. Jesus' words in 7:12 require active obedience and active engagement for the good of others. Do unto others. As Gal. 6:10 says "Do good to all, especially those of the household of faith". With no guarantee of similar treatment. That's tough. Think about how you have been sinned against: the hurt, the anger, the pain. You want justice don’t you? Now think about how you have sinned. You want mercy don’t you? Let your desire for mercy give you perspective; the other person is just like you: guilty before a holy God; wanting mercy. You could have done the same or worse.
3. God wants you to share His love for the sake of the Gospel. Active engagement for the glory of God and good of others holds far more possibility of the lost becoming found, and the wayward getting on track than any man-made substitute ever could. Matt. 7:12 encapsulates the Gospel: that our holy God took upon Himself human flesh and became one of us to do unto us what we were incapable of doing for ourselves. The Gospel standard is that we acknowledge God, and His right to rule in our lives, and then act accordingly. God has done everything for us; we ought to do everything for others. Jesus died for those who killed Him. He has treated us infinitely better than our sins deserved. Treat people the same way.
Praise God that for the humble and repentant there is full forgiveness and freedom from the power and penalty of sin. There is life where death reigned; joy where despair settled in; love where hate attacked. Praise God mercy flows because Christ's blood was spilled. The blood of Christ cleanses.
In the Olympics they give gold, silver and bronze medals. Everyone remembers who won gold, not silver or bronze. They are inferior prizes, relatively speaking. With regard to the Golden Rule, some say they live by it but what they really live by is an inferior version. There's the Silver Rule that says "Do not do to others what you do not want done to you", which is easy to follow, just do nothing. Or the Bronze Rule which says, "Do to others before they do to you". There's also the Rusty Metal Rule, "do anything you want to others with no regard for anyone, then run fast!".
Matt. 7:12 has been misused and twisted by many; my prayer is that true followers of Christ would know and live it's true meaning.
The 1st step in understanding Matt. 7:12 is to figure out what "therefore" relates to. Could be 7:7-11; because God gives good gifts Jesus’ disciples should live by this rule out of gratitude. Or 7:1-6; instead of judging others, we should treat them as we want to be treated. Most likely it refers to everything so far in the Sermon on the Mount: Jesus is saying, "therefore, in light of everything I have said about the true direction God's Word points, obey the Golden Rule". It gives a short summary of the Kingdom righteousness Jesus requires and brings about in His people.
This verse, in context, shows what God expects of Christians. If you claim to be a "follower of Jesus" you cannot escape several things that God expects of you with regard to Matt. 7:12.
1. God wants you to know Him and His love. Seeing 7:12 as just one moral option among many will lead you away from Jesus; to think you are able to live without God. Mankind either tries to be God or deny Him. Ps. 14:1 says "the fool has said in his heart there is no God". 7:12 assumes a higher authority than self: God Himself. There is no golden rule without God. He wants you to know His love for you, which is immeasurable and incomprehensible, knowable only through Jesus Christ. (John 17:3; 1 John 5:11-12).
2. God wants you to choose wisely for His glory and other's good. Jesus calls us to action. Jesus' words in 7:12 require active obedience and active engagement for the good of others. Do unto others. As Gal. 6:10 says "Do good to all, especially those of the household of faith". With no guarantee of similar treatment. That's tough. Think about how you have been sinned against: the hurt, the anger, the pain. You want justice don’t you? Now think about how you have sinned. You want mercy don’t you? Let your desire for mercy give you perspective; the other person is just like you: guilty before a holy God; wanting mercy. You could have done the same or worse.
3. God wants you to share His love for the sake of the Gospel. Active engagement for the glory of God and good of others holds far more possibility of the lost becoming found, and the wayward getting on track than any man-made substitute ever could. Matt. 7:12 encapsulates the Gospel: that our holy God took upon Himself human flesh and became one of us to do unto us what we were incapable of doing for ourselves. The Gospel standard is that we acknowledge God, and His right to rule in our lives, and then act accordingly. God has done everything for us; we ought to do everything for others. Jesus died for those who killed Him. He has treated us infinitely better than our sins deserved. Treat people the same way.
Praise God that for the humble and repentant there is full forgiveness and freedom from the power and penalty of sin. There is life where death reigned; joy where despair settled in; love where hate attacked. Praise God mercy flows because Christ's blood was spilled. The blood of Christ cleanses.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Whole in Him
Full of...
love
regret
praise
uneasiness
wonder
worry
faith
fear
I am a mess, alone.
I am whole, in Him.
Jesus is the Restorer.
love
regret
praise
uneasiness
wonder
worry
faith
fear
I am a mess, alone.
I am whole, in Him.
Jesus is the Restorer.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Cleansed
Hurt friend
didn't send the message on
didn't see the Hand moving
didn't recognize Who was
so high above us
Higher than anything.
But He did.
So we respond
so we bring
so we reach
so we sing
Praise like never before
Depth that never was there
Life where death reigned
Blood where sin claimed
Cleansed.
didn't send the message on
didn't see the Hand moving
didn't recognize Who was
so high above us
Higher than anything.
But He did.
So we respond
so we bring
so we reach
so we sing
Praise like never before
Depth that never was there
Life where death reigned
Blood where sin claimed
Cleansed.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Dwelling
My sincere try fell way to short
filled with jealousy
and none too little of self
it left me dry and wanting more
I couldn't dream
what God had planned
His wonder grace that captured me
that felled me at His word and voice
His choice became my heart's desire
His love became my victory
His mercy showered over me
Now I dwell in Immanuel's hand
filled with jealousy
and none too little of self
it left me dry and wanting more
I couldn't dream
what God had planned
His wonder grace that captured me
that felled me at His word and voice
His choice became my heart's desire
His love became my victory
His mercy showered over me
Now I dwell in Immanuel's hand
Friday, November 13, 2009
Resolved
I wouldn't stop for anything
I wouldn't smile on any crown
I wouldn't bow to any king
Not for gold or world renown
I wouldn't bend just any knee
I wouldn't send my favored pen
I wouldn't act for all to see
not for the world or praise of men
I wouldn't go to seek or kill
I wouldn't read just any story
I wouldn't settle for any thrill
not for fame or untold glory
I would that He receive my praise
I would that He become my prize
I would my King to guide my days
by grace He's where my focus lies
I wouldn't smile on any crown
I wouldn't bow to any king
Not for gold or world renown
I wouldn't bend just any knee
I wouldn't send my favored pen
I wouldn't act for all to see
not for the world or praise of men
I wouldn't go to seek or kill
I wouldn't read just any story
I wouldn't settle for any thrill
not for fame or untold glory
I would that He receive my praise
I would that He become my prize
I would my King to guide my days
by grace He's where my focus lies
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Perfect Word
Ages past unlocked the scene
forever pictured in a dream
clouded for the least of men
veiled for all the least of these
When the sentry opens gates
when the lock undone will wait
for every heartache every thrill
He comes to seek and not to kill
He settles every unearned score
He riddles every liars bell
He rides the wind to bring it home
We will fall before His throne
Perfect Word says "I Am He
I have heard His mystery
"Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done"
forever pictured in a dream
clouded for the least of men
veiled for all the least of these
When the sentry opens gates
when the lock undone will wait
for every heartache every thrill
He comes to seek and not to kill
He settles every unearned score
He riddles every liars bell
He rides the wind to bring it home
We will fall before His throne
Perfect Word says "I Am He
I have heard His mystery
"Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done"
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Empty Page...Full Heart...Many Promises
Empty page before me lies
a whisper of eternity
a hope, a sentence to unveil
a part of what He gave to me
I write aware and unaware
of forces beckoning me home
I hear the sweet still voice of God
who inspiration will come from
And still I walk and travel on
Until that day My Savior calls me
Still I labor at the gate
until that day He comes to free
That day will launch a thousand tongues
to sing the praise of God's own hand
to see what He has promised
to set my eyes upon the Lamb
a whisper of eternity
a hope, a sentence to unveil
a part of what He gave to me
I write aware and unaware
of forces beckoning me home
I hear the sweet still voice of God
who inspiration will come from
And still I walk and travel on
Until that day My Savior calls me
Still I labor at the gate
until that day He comes to free
That day will launch a thousand tongues
to sing the praise of God's own hand
to see what He has promised
to set my eyes upon the Lamb
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
The Jesus Way to Healthy Prayer and Relationships
Relationships are sometimes the most difficult things in our lives. As always, people are the problem. Jesus has a solution. In Matthew chapter 7 He puts the focus on relationships. Jesus shows us that relationships don’t have to be as hard as we make them, that the way to love others appropriately is to seek God continually. This is the idea behind Matt. 7:7-11; and it relates in some way to almost everything we do in life. It is not about getting whatever we want when we want it, it’s about wanting whatever will most glorify God.
Jesus is speaking of prayer in the context of healthy relationships with God and others. It is tied closely to what Jesus has already said about prayer (6:5-13); His instructions to not judging wrongly (7:1-5a) but exercise wise discernment and evaluation (7:5b-6); and the Golden Rule(7:12), doing to others what you want done to you.
There are three simple truths we see in this passage of Scripture.
God wants us to ask.
Ask means come to God humbly conscious of your need; to pray. 1 Thess. 5:17 Pray without ceasing. Living in an attitude of prayer. Seek means come to God responsibly pursuing His sovereign, gracious will; asking with sincerity. Wanting whatever He wants. Knock means come to God confidently persistent, trusting Him to provide; active, diligent pursuit of God’s ways. These are present active imperatives, stressing continual action, persistence.
In the context of not judging wrongly and knowing how to wisely evaluate people’s actions, we are to ask for wisdom to deal appropriately with people – not judging them wrongly; but being wise and discerning.
God promises to answer.
“It” is whatever God knows is best for you. We ask, He gives what is needed. This is not name it and claim it. We must careful to ask for the right things for the right reasons. God is not a vending machine; there to just give us what we want. Solomon is a good example (1 Chron. 28:9-10, 20; 2 Chron. 1:8-13); God asked Him to ask for whatever he wanted and he asked God for a wise and discerning heart.
God gives good gifts.
Jesus gives an example from everyday life showing blessings a parent gives to their children. Parents, who are imperfect and sinful, want to bless their kids and give them good gifts. They don’t purposefully give them harmful things. God, who is perfect and holy, always gives what is good. You may not always get the thing you want, but He always provides what you really need. In the midst of joy and pain He provides. No matter what He is sovereign and He is working all things together for good for you; using His good gifts in your life, household and community in the process of making you more Christ-like.
Jesus’ way to healthy prayer and relationships is best: the way to love others appropriately is to seek God continually; because when we seek God continually we love others appropriately, and we receive God’s blessings thankfully.
Jesus is speaking of prayer in the context of healthy relationships with God and others. It is tied closely to what Jesus has already said about prayer (6:5-13); His instructions to not judging wrongly (7:1-5a) but exercise wise discernment and evaluation (7:5b-6); and the Golden Rule(7:12), doing to others what you want done to you.
There are three simple truths we see in this passage of Scripture.
God wants us to ask.
Ask means come to God humbly conscious of your need; to pray. 1 Thess. 5:17 Pray without ceasing. Living in an attitude of prayer. Seek means come to God responsibly pursuing His sovereign, gracious will; asking with sincerity. Wanting whatever He wants. Knock means come to God confidently persistent, trusting Him to provide; active, diligent pursuit of God’s ways. These are present active imperatives, stressing continual action, persistence.
In the context of not judging wrongly and knowing how to wisely evaluate people’s actions, we are to ask for wisdom to deal appropriately with people – not judging them wrongly; but being wise and discerning.
God promises to answer.
“It” is whatever God knows is best for you. We ask, He gives what is needed. This is not name it and claim it. We must careful to ask for the right things for the right reasons. God is not a vending machine; there to just give us what we want. Solomon is a good example (1 Chron. 28:9-10, 20; 2 Chron. 1:8-13); God asked Him to ask for whatever he wanted and he asked God for a wise and discerning heart.
God gives good gifts.
Jesus gives an example from everyday life showing blessings a parent gives to their children. Parents, who are imperfect and sinful, want to bless their kids and give them good gifts. They don’t purposefully give them harmful things. God, who is perfect and holy, always gives what is good. You may not always get the thing you want, but He always provides what you really need. In the midst of joy and pain He provides. No matter what He is sovereign and He is working all things together for good for you; using His good gifts in your life, household and community in the process of making you more Christ-like.
Jesus’ way to healthy prayer and relationships is best: the way to love others appropriately is to seek God continually; because when we seek God continually we love others appropriately, and we receive God’s blessings thankfully.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Living with Sinful People
So far, in the best sermon ever by the best preacher ever, Jesus has described in ch. 5 a Christian’s character (the beatitudes), influence (salt and light), righteousness (comes from faith in Him, not works), in ch. 6 devotion and ambition and now in ch. 7 He puts the focus on relationships. The counter-culture that Jesus develops in His followers is not individualistic, but a community thing and relationships within the community and with others are of utmost importance to God. We have a relationship with God Himself, through faith in Christ; as well as to our brothers and sisters in Christ, members of God’s family; and to everyone in general.
Jesus words near the end of the sermon, give us another glimpse into the way God does things and the way He wants them done. He shows us that relationships don’t have to be as hard as we make them, that: The way to love others appropriately is to seek God continually. Or, stated another way, when we seek God continually we love others appropriately, and receive God’s blessings thankfully. This is the idea behind Matt. 7:7-11 and it is one that relates in some way to almost everything we do in life.
But one important fact must not be ignored: We are living with sinful people. Basically, people are sinful & it affects things! You must take that into consideration. We must deal with the “Depravity Quotient” on a daily basis. People have to deal with ours!
It is a relational truth that anyone with whom we must associate closely will need to be handled carefully, because people are fragile and temperamental and dangerous to deal with. They are depraved. Not as bad as they could be, but bad enough. We must continually engage in a process of depravity adjustment on an ongoing basis. Giving room to others, as we expect from them, for our depravity. Not explaining it away, or downplaying, & being understanding with one another as we follow Jesus. Understanding that the only goodness inus is the goodness of God in Christ.
Some of you feel like you are professional apologizers; with your family, associates, classmates, friends, relatives, brothers and sisters in Christ. They are tainted by sin too – so their response to you, which can become controlling, also needs to be tempered. Relationships are a two-way street. With God, no such issues. God never says I have heard that far too often lately and I am losing my patience with you. Why don’t you just leave, it is easier that way for me. People say that but God never does.
Wouldn’t life be easy if everyone would get their act together? We should pray: Help people see You through me and not me through me. It is so easy to get frustrated with people, and subsequently harsh with them. It is so easy to live always looking at other's sins and faults rather than our own. It is so easy to be self-focused rather than God-focused.
Isaiah said it rightly, Is. 6:5, "Woe is me, for I am a man of unclean lips and I live among a people of unclean lips. For my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." It is a good thing to get a realistic glimpse of God because it puts things in life in perspective doesn't it?
Jesus words near the end of the sermon, give us another glimpse into the way God does things and the way He wants them done. He shows us that relationships don’t have to be as hard as we make them, that: The way to love others appropriately is to seek God continually. Or, stated another way, when we seek God continually we love others appropriately, and receive God’s blessings thankfully. This is the idea behind Matt. 7:7-11 and it is one that relates in some way to almost everything we do in life.
But one important fact must not be ignored: We are living with sinful people. Basically, people are sinful & it affects things! You must take that into consideration. We must deal with the “Depravity Quotient” on a daily basis. People have to deal with ours!
It is a relational truth that anyone with whom we must associate closely will need to be handled carefully, because people are fragile and temperamental and dangerous to deal with. They are depraved. Not as bad as they could be, but bad enough. We must continually engage in a process of depravity adjustment on an ongoing basis. Giving room to others, as we expect from them, for our depravity. Not explaining it away, or downplaying, & being understanding with one another as we follow Jesus. Understanding that the only goodness inus is the goodness of God in Christ.
Some of you feel like you are professional apologizers; with your family, associates, classmates, friends, relatives, brothers and sisters in Christ. They are tainted by sin too – so their response to you, which can become controlling, also needs to be tempered. Relationships are a two-way street. With God, no such issues. God never says I have heard that far too often lately and I am losing my patience with you. Why don’t you just leave, it is easier that way for me. People say that but God never does.
Wouldn’t life be easy if everyone would get their act together? We should pray: Help people see You through me and not me through me. It is so easy to get frustrated with people, and subsequently harsh with them. It is so easy to live always looking at other's sins and faults rather than our own. It is so easy to be self-focused rather than God-focused.
Isaiah said it rightly, Is. 6:5, "Woe is me, for I am a man of unclean lips and I live among a people of unclean lips. For my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." It is a good thing to get a realistic glimpse of God because it puts things in life in perspective doesn't it?
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Be Generous with Acceptance, Stingy with Judgment
Being judged wrongly feels horrible doesn't it? You know the truth (at least your view of it) and then someone comes along and says you’re all wrong. Common responses are anger, indignation, resentment, shock, tears & denial. But isn't it interesting that we forget how it feels to be judged when we choose to judge others? We play god with abandon; living a double standard - we judge others freely but think it strange when it happens to us.
Why is it wrong to judge? According to Jesus in Matthew 7:1-6...
1. God says it’s wrong. Realize you’ll be judged by others and God Himself. Sometimes we judge people most harshly in areas we are weakest, or where we’ve fallen or experienced most pain. It happens in families, churches, workplaces, schools; basically, people competing for supremacy.
2. It is rooted in sin. Some say Matt. 7 is a jumble of odds and ends disconnected to the previous section. I disagree. Understanding 6:34 and the word "trouble" is a key to understanding 7:1-6. Each day has enough trouble, evil, depravity of its own. The temptation to do evil on our part and the evil actions of others. Like judging others wrongly.
3. It reveals a lack of perspective, the self-awareness that's needed to live appropriately. In Matthew 7:3-4 Jesus uses humorous exaggeration to point us back to 6:22-23 and the kind of "eye" or focus you have in life. We need to have a perspective that is willing to admit we aren’t good enough to judge & we can’t be impartial. We have enough problems of our own.
4. It is hypocrisy. Jesus uses fightin' words! 7:5 begins, "You hypocrite". The proper procedure before dealing with someone’s else’s faults is 1st to judge yourself. Other people’s faults are nothing compared to our own. Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. A 'hypocrite' was an actor, someone who impersonated another; Jesus is referring to the worst kind of impersonation, people trying to be God in other's lives by judging them.
5. Only God knows the rest of the story. Only God is qualified to judge. There is always back story. There is always back-story, stuff that if we knew would give us the perspective to be generous with acceptance and stingy with judgment. It would make us discerning, not condemning. We would cooperate with them rather than competing for first place. We'd be more interested in Christ's supremacy.
Is it ever right to judge? Yes. In Matt. 7:5b-6 the idea of seeing clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye is clear. Wrong judging is always wrong; but sometimes judging is needed, especially with those who don’t know any better (unbelievers) and those who should know better (believers). We should not expect the lost to act like Christians, but we have every right to expect Christians to! Jesus is saying, "Don't be so critical in a bad way; but be a little critical in a good way when necessary." Apply sparingly.
What can we do about both wrong judging and the challenge appropriately judging rightly? The 1st thing has to do with the heart: Remember what you have done and remember where you came from. But don't wallow in your sins, remember what Jesus has done (Rom. 5:6-8). Remember how Jesus has forgiven you. Trust God; allow Him to fill your heart with good things; blessing and acceptance instead of judgment and condemnation. The 2nd thing has to do with the mouth: Restrain your words Ps. 141:3. Exercise self-control. Speak the truth in love. Follow Matthew 7:12, do to others as you would have them do to you. It will help all your relationships if you can learn to live in the power of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God. But for that to happen most of us need to abandon our deeply rooted practice of condemning and blaming.
There is hope in Jesus Christ. Jesus says you can become a person who does not condemn or blame. Guard your heart (from it flow the issues of life) and your mouth (the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart). As you do the power of God's kingdom will flow through you, becoming more freely available to bless and guide others in God's ways.
Rom. 8:1. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. People may condemn you but God never will; He condemned sin in the flesh through Jesus Christ; if you are a believer your sins are covered. Someday we will know the rest of the story. Until then, rest in God’s sovereignty.
1 Cor. 4:5 Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God.
Why is it wrong to judge? According to Jesus in Matthew 7:1-6...
1. God says it’s wrong. Realize you’ll be judged by others and God Himself. Sometimes we judge people most harshly in areas we are weakest, or where we’ve fallen or experienced most pain. It happens in families, churches, workplaces, schools; basically, people competing for supremacy.
2. It is rooted in sin. Some say Matt. 7 is a jumble of odds and ends disconnected to the previous section. I disagree. Understanding 6:34 and the word "trouble" is a key to understanding 7:1-6. Each day has enough trouble, evil, depravity of its own. The temptation to do evil on our part and the evil actions of others. Like judging others wrongly.
3. It reveals a lack of perspective, the self-awareness that's needed to live appropriately. In Matthew 7:3-4 Jesus uses humorous exaggeration to point us back to 6:22-23 and the kind of "eye" or focus you have in life. We need to have a perspective that is willing to admit we aren’t good enough to judge & we can’t be impartial. We have enough problems of our own.
4. It is hypocrisy. Jesus uses fightin' words! 7:5 begins, "You hypocrite". The proper procedure before dealing with someone’s else’s faults is 1st to judge yourself. Other people’s faults are nothing compared to our own. Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. A 'hypocrite' was an actor, someone who impersonated another; Jesus is referring to the worst kind of impersonation, people trying to be God in other's lives by judging them.
5. Only God knows the rest of the story. Only God is qualified to judge. There is always back story. There is always back-story, stuff that if we knew would give us the perspective to be generous with acceptance and stingy with judgment. It would make us discerning, not condemning. We would cooperate with them rather than competing for first place. We'd be more interested in Christ's supremacy.
Is it ever right to judge? Yes. In Matt. 7:5b-6 the idea of seeing clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye is clear. Wrong judging is always wrong; but sometimes judging is needed, especially with those who don’t know any better (unbelievers) and those who should know better (believers). We should not expect the lost to act like Christians, but we have every right to expect Christians to! Jesus is saying, "Don't be so critical in a bad way; but be a little critical in a good way when necessary." Apply sparingly.
What can we do about both wrong judging and the challenge appropriately judging rightly? The 1st thing has to do with the heart: Remember what you have done and remember where you came from. But don't wallow in your sins, remember what Jesus has done (Rom. 5:6-8). Remember how Jesus has forgiven you. Trust God; allow Him to fill your heart with good things; blessing and acceptance instead of judgment and condemnation. The 2nd thing has to do with the mouth: Restrain your words Ps. 141:3. Exercise self-control. Speak the truth in love. Follow Matthew 7:12, do to others as you would have them do to you. It will help all your relationships if you can learn to live in the power of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God. But for that to happen most of us need to abandon our deeply rooted practice of condemning and blaming.
There is hope in Jesus Christ. Jesus says you can become a person who does not condemn or blame. Guard your heart (from it flow the issues of life) and your mouth (the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart). As you do the power of God's kingdom will flow through you, becoming more freely available to bless and guide others in God's ways.
Rom. 8:1. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. People may condemn you but God never will; He condemned sin in the flesh through Jesus Christ; if you are a believer your sins are covered. Someday we will know the rest of the story. Until then, rest in God’s sovereignty.
1 Cor. 4:5 Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Live For God's Fame, Because He is Good
God spoke through the psalmist to say in Psalm 147:10-11 "He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord favors those who fear Him, those who wait for His loving kindness."
That tells me that we can try as hard as we can in our own power to earn God's favor and we might never be able to enter into it, because we are just spinning our wheels running around in a frenzy not acknowledging who God really is.
The only way to life in is Jesus Christ. No one else can make sense out of life and no one else is good enough to follow. God is so good, He provides for our every need (not all our wants, our needs) and He shows Himself faithful to all of His promises.
He has promised that the one who comes to Hm in faith He will never cast away. He will keep you forever in His care. God, being rich in mercy, when we were dead in sin, sent Jesus to pay the penalty our sins deserved All who believe go free because Jesus was judged in our place.
So do whatever you do for God's glory, honor and fame. He is worthy of it. The Lord is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds. That is found in Psalm 145:17.
That tells me that we can try as hard as we can in our own power to earn God's favor and we might never be able to enter into it, because we are just spinning our wheels running around in a frenzy not acknowledging who God really is.
The only way to life in is Jesus Christ. No one else can make sense out of life and no one else is good enough to follow. God is so good, He provides for our every need (not all our wants, our needs) and He shows Himself faithful to all of His promises.
He has promised that the one who comes to Hm in faith He will never cast away. He will keep you forever in His care. God, being rich in mercy, when we were dead in sin, sent Jesus to pay the penalty our sins deserved All who believe go free because Jesus was judged in our place.
So do whatever you do for God's glory, honor and fame. He is worthy of it. The Lord is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds. That is found in Psalm 145:17.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Beautiful Judging
Can judging be beautiful? Yes, if it is done in a Christ-honoring way.
Sadly, it is often done in harmful, ugly, non God-honoring ways. That can, and should, change according to Jesus.
In Matthew 7:1-6 Jesus gives us ample advice to navigate the tricky waters of human relationships. He says in effect, "don't be hyper-critical, be just critical enough to not be led astray by those who don't know any better and those with evil motives who do know better." If you want to "straighten them out", be silent. If you want them to be restored, speak out gently in love. Look to yourself, you could fall as well (Gal. 6:1).
It would help our family life, church life, community life and all our other human relationships if we would learn to live together with people, in the power of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God. But for it to happen we must abandon or deeply rooted practice of condemning and blaming.
Jesus is saying that you should, and you can, become the kind of person who does not condemn or blame others. Make sure you guard your heart (for from it flow the issues of life) and your mouth (for the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart). As you do that the power of God's kingdom will flow through you, becoming more freely available to bless and guide others in God's ways.
Sadly, it is often done in harmful, ugly, non God-honoring ways. That can, and should, change according to Jesus.
In Matthew 7:1-6 Jesus gives us ample advice to navigate the tricky waters of human relationships. He says in effect, "don't be hyper-critical, be just critical enough to not be led astray by those who don't know any better and those with evil motives who do know better." If you want to "straighten them out", be silent. If you want them to be restored, speak out gently in love. Look to yourself, you could fall as well (Gal. 6:1).
It would help our family life, church life, community life and all our other human relationships if we would learn to live together with people, in the power of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God. But for it to happen we must abandon or deeply rooted practice of condemning and blaming.
Jesus is saying that you should, and you can, become the kind of person who does not condemn or blame others. Make sure you guard your heart (for from it flow the issues of life) and your mouth (for the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart). As you do that the power of God's kingdom will flow through you, becoming more freely available to bless and guide others in God's ways.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
