I was just thinking that our level of intimacy with the Lord is directly related to our level of authority in the Body of Christ. Its in the place of being known, and knowing You Lord that we find out who we really are, and become more and more like you.
As an example Moses talked face to face with God. (NIV)Exodus 33:11. "The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend."
David was called a man after God's heart. (NIV)Acts 13:22 "God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do."
The Apostles spent many hours with the Lord, and knew His heart and purposes. (NIV)John 15:15. "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you."
Lord, it is clear that there is a direct relationship between the time we spend with You and what You entrust to us to do. Its also so clear that its not head knowledge that is sufficient, but knowledge of You the person, knowledge of Your heart. Help us Lord to know You more.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
His Flawless Word
Just opened my Bible to (NIV)Proverbs 30:5-6
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. [6] Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar."
What a good reminder to me of the Lord's perfection, and complete holiness. His words are flawless. I am reminded of (NIV)Isaiah 55:10-11, "As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, [11] so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."
His words are full of purpose and life and perfect. Its important to know that our understanding of His Word is at best only imperfect, in time. Paul writes in (NIV)1 Corinthians 13:12. "For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.". If we don't understand something that God says, its not Him who hasn't communicated clearly, but rather a limitation on our understanding.
The second part is also important, we must not, in our limited understanding, try to change or add to His words. My tendency is to ty to make His words fit what I want to hear, so that requires either trimming or adding to them. As I have learned to walk in maturity, which Paul was talking about in the preceding verses in 1 Corinthians, I have learned to trust in God's word, and not worry about the gaps in my understanding, knowing I am not probably going to grasp the perfection and full meaning of His words any time soon. However, I know God, His goodness, His faithfulness, His loving kindness, His mercy, and His infinite love, so I can trust myself to Him, making Him my refuge.
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. [6] Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar."
What a good reminder to me of the Lord's perfection, and complete holiness. His words are flawless. I am reminded of (NIV)Isaiah 55:10-11, "As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, [11] so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."
His words are full of purpose and life and perfect. Its important to know that our understanding of His Word is at best only imperfect, in time. Paul writes in (NIV)1 Corinthians 13:12. "For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.". If we don't understand something that God says, its not Him who hasn't communicated clearly, but rather a limitation on our understanding.
The second part is also important, we must not, in our limited understanding, try to change or add to His words. My tendency is to ty to make His words fit what I want to hear, so that requires either trimming or adding to them. As I have learned to walk in maturity, which Paul was talking about in the preceding verses in 1 Corinthians, I have learned to trust in God's word, and not worry about the gaps in my understanding, knowing I am not probably going to grasp the perfection and full meaning of His words any time soon. However, I know God, His goodness, His faithfulness, His loving kindness, His mercy, and His infinite love, so I can trust myself to Him, making Him my refuge.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Miracles and Repentance
I was reading was in Matthew, concerning the miracles Jesus did and their purpose:
(NIV)Matthew 11:20-24
Then Jesus began to denounce the towns in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. [21] “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. [22] But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. [23] And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted to the heavens? No, you will go down to Hades. For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. [24] But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.”
As I read these verses, the first sentence caught my eye, for it describes the main purpose of the miracles, that people would repent, or more literally 'change the way they think'. Here was Jesus ministering powerfully in their midst and they weren't changing the way they thought about God. In John 10:25, identifies miracles as revealing who He is:
(NIV)John 10:25
Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works (miracles) I do in my Father’s name testify about me,..."
In spite of these great miracles and countless people being healed, delivered and set free, the overall response was one of apparent unbelief, and unwillingness to recognize who He was. They were more willing to hold onto their old ways of thinking than change and recognize that God was truly in their midst.
As I write this, I wonder how often I have had similar responses to God's moving in my life? Do I recognize His presence, His interactions, His moving on my behalf and change the way I think, the way I act and the way I live? I think that the people were probably glad for the miracles, but just wanted to go on living life the way they had all along. How often am I the same way? Good questions for me to ponder, as I know God is after change in our lives, changing us into His likeness, to be His representatives. Lord help me to be willing to change.
(NIV)Matthew 11:20-24
Then Jesus began to denounce the towns in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. [21] “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. [22] But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. [23] And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted to the heavens? No, you will go down to Hades. For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. [24] But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.”
As I read these verses, the first sentence caught my eye, for it describes the main purpose of the miracles, that people would repent, or more literally 'change the way they think'. Here was Jesus ministering powerfully in their midst and they weren't changing the way they thought about God. In John 10:25, identifies miracles as revealing who He is:
(NIV)John 10:25
Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works (miracles) I do in my Father’s name testify about me,..."
In spite of these great miracles and countless people being healed, delivered and set free, the overall response was one of apparent unbelief, and unwillingness to recognize who He was. They were more willing to hold onto their old ways of thinking than change and recognize that God was truly in their midst.
As I write this, I wonder how often I have had similar responses to God's moving in my life? Do I recognize His presence, His interactions, His moving on my behalf and change the way I think, the way I act and the way I live? I think that the people were probably glad for the miracles, but just wanted to go on living life the way they had all along. How often am I the same way? Good questions for me to ponder, as I know God is after change in our lives, changing us into His likeness, to be His representatives. Lord help me to be willing to change.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Heart Motivation
This morning I am reading from Romans 6:
(NIV)Romans 6:16-18
Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey---whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? [17] But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. [18] You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.
I like the phrase - "obey from your heart" as that so clearly describes the true motivation for changing one's life to follow Christ, its a heart motivation. Its not a decision for following rules, or some guidelines or even some teaching. It is a relationship of love, that affects our hearts, that changes what we want to do. The pathway is laid out for us in scripture, but if we are not motivated in our heart than we can just as easily change our minds and do something different.
A heart motivation provides lasting change, because with that comes a willingness and longing that rises up in our being. As an example, the difference between being in love with someone and being an acquaintance is significant in our desire to spend time with them, even in our thoughts and actions toward them. Being in love causes us to rearrange our priorities, change our plans, and think about our lives in a new way.
In the same way our response to Christ should be motivated by love. To be in love we need to meet the person, not the idea, not the teaching, not the doctrine. A relationship with Christ should be the core of our faith, and that which motivates us in our lives. A relationship with Christ has the same components as any other relationship - communication, interaction, knowledge of one another, and genuine affection. Ultimately the end result is oneness of mind and heart.
My daily time with Him increases my knowledge of Him and deepens my relationship with Him. Its in these times that I understand Him more, feel His affection for me, and express my affection for Him. Its in this place of relationship building that I become like Him, just as two people who are in love for years and years become more like each other. Its in this place of knowing and being known that my heart connects with His heart, and I want to please Him, and be a part of what He is about and doing.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Reality of the Bible
This morning I was reading from Genesis 23, the story of the burial of Sarah. What I found interesting was the mention of the town, where Abraham purchased a burial cave. The town was Kiriath Arba, and that town still exists today. According to a site with a Bible timeline, Sarah died around 2030BC.
http://bibletimeline.info/
According to the website describing Kiriath Arba (Hebron) the caves where Sarah was buried, along with Abraham and Isaac was revered as their burial place since 1000BC.
http://www.sacred-destinations.com/israel/hebron-tombs-of-the-patriarchs
In 1BC, Herod the Great built a wall around their tombs, and that wall still stands today. I guess I hadn't really ever done any research on this area, and it amazed me that it was so well preserved, and also so accurate to the Bible. It gave me another anchor for the literal reality of the scriptures. Thank You Lord for over 4000 years of history and roots of my faith.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
The Awesomeness of God
Reading a few Psalms this morning - PS 92 & 93.
(NIV)Psalm 92:1-5
It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, [2] proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, [3] to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. [4] For you make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. [5] How great are your works, Lord, how profound your thoughts!
(NIV)Psalm 93:1-5
The Lord reigns, he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength; indeed, the world is established, firm and secure. [2] Your throne was established long ago; you are from all eternity. [3] The seas have lifted up, Lord, the seas have lifted up their voice; the seas have lifted up their pounding waves. [4] Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea---the Lord on high is mighty. [5] Your statutes, Lord, stand firm; holiness adorns your house for endless days.
Its a great day to meditate on the awesomeness of the Lord, His Love, His Faithfulness, His Holiness, His majesty, His reign for all eternity.
It is amazing to me that the Lord loved me and called me when I was yet a sinner and paid the price for all my sins. He knows my inner man, He knows my thoughts, He knows my failings, yet He is always faithful and loving.
He is so unlike us, His thoughts are so far above ours, His love and faithfulness incomparable. He reigns eternally in heaven, surrounded by angels and creatures who constantly praise His majesty. We see glimpses of His majesty in the beauty around us! How much more majestic is the creator than all creation?
His eternal reign is beyond comprehension, for He is beyond time, before and after time, present everywhere, aware of everything. He is more powerful than the combined sum of all the universe.
Yet, He knows me and loves me in small and intimate ways. He answers my prayer as soon as it leaves my mouth. He speaks into my thoughts His words of wisdom and love. He has taken up residence in my heart. He delights in showing me His love. He delights in me!
I am sitting here awed by the incomprehensible nature of God, yet He is constantly revealing Himself to me, desiring to be known by me, and loved by me, and willing to interact with me! You are truly amazing Lord! Words cannot ascribe to You Glory enough! I am so thankful for the chance to know You, to love You, to serve You and to be called your friend!
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Obedience and Presumption
This morning I felt led to read from 2 Kings:
(NIV)2 Kings 23:1-3, 25
Then the king called together all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. [2] He went up to the temple of the Lord with the people of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the priests and the prophets---all the people from the least to the greatest. He read in their hearing all the words of the Book of the Covenant, which had been found in the temple of the Lord. [3] The king stood by the pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord---to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, thus confirming the words of the covenant written in this book. Then all the people pledged themselves to the covenant.
[25] Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did---with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses.
I am always inspired by the heart for the law that Josiah had as King. He followed everything that the law said, and carried it out completely. He was ruthless against the sin of the nation, and literally ground the images and poles to dust, and cleansed the land. He is an awesome example of purity, obedience and passion.
I am also amazed that he died the way he did, presuming the Lord's protection, stepping out of the will of God to attack the King of Egypt, when he had no real quarrel with him - see below:
(NIV)2 Chronicles 35:20-24
After all this, when Josiah had set the temple in order, Necho king of Egypt went up to fight at Carchemish on the Euphrates, and Josiah marched out to meet him in battle. [21] But Necho sent messengers to him, saying, “What quarrel is there, king of Judah, between you and me? It is not you I am attacking at this time, but the house with which I am at war. God has told me to hurry; so stop opposing God, who is with me, or he will destroy you.” [22] Josiah, however, would not turn away from him, but disguised himself to engage him in battle. He would not listen to what Necho had said at God’s command but went to fight him on the plain of Megiddo. [23] Archers shot King Josiah, and he told his officers, “Take me away; I am badly wounded.” [24] So they took him out of his chariot, put him in his other chariot and brought him to Jerusalem, where he died. He was buried in the tombs of his ancestors, and all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for him.
I think its so important that we only fight the battles that the Lord directs us to fight. We don't need to go off searching for things to battle in our pursuit of God and His ways. I think so often in our lives we presume to know what the Lord is doing, based on some theme or some unrefined word we hear, or what someone else has heard, and we set off with zeal and passion and end up in a battle or situation the Lord is not in.
I have a good friend who said he had learned to stop and listen and make sure he knew what the Lord was saying, because in his early walk he had just started running as soon as He heard the Lord say something. The problem was the Lord would be warning him abut the cliff in that direction, but because he was already running he never heard that part, and off the cliff he would go.
It is my experience that the Lord will give each of us clear direction, and usually is only working on a couple of issues at a time. We shouldn't be taking on other things, just because someone else is battling in another area and we think its a good idea, or that by doing so we will show God how much we love Him. God is very capable of managing our uniqueness and dealing with each of us independently of each other, and doesn't need us messing ourselves up.
We also can have a tendency to judge others in areas we have been dealt with, thinking that God clearly wants them to get their act together in the same area too. Again this is presumng God's will. Most of the time, in my experience, God will deal directly with the brother or sister about their own life, and He rarely needs my help. That doesn't mean I don't encourage others, or speak the word of the Lord, or even give words of encouragement, but I can't presume to know God's will for someone else because of how He has dealt with me.
Also, the Lord clearly gives us areas of influence ad authority, and presumng His favor or authority in other areas can also get you in trouble. I think in the story of Josiah, his zeal outran his authority and commission. He wanted to capture Egypt for God by defeating the king and armies, but God had given him a clear focus of cleaning up his own kingdom and maintaining the kingdom in a state of pure worship, not expanding the kingdom. God appreciates our zeal for Him, but we must be careful to listen to His warnings. If Josiah would have turned back, he would have lived. As it was his loss to the King of Egypt brought Judah under a terrible tax burden and resulted in his son being carried off to Egypt in chains, where he died.
(NIV)2 Kings 23:1-3, 25
Then the king called together all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. [2] He went up to the temple of the Lord with the people of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the priests and the prophets---all the people from the least to the greatest. He read in their hearing all the words of the Book of the Covenant, which had been found in the temple of the Lord. [3] The king stood by the pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord---to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, thus confirming the words of the covenant written in this book. Then all the people pledged themselves to the covenant.
[25] Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did---with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses.
I am always inspired by the heart for the law that Josiah had as King. He followed everything that the law said, and carried it out completely. He was ruthless against the sin of the nation, and literally ground the images and poles to dust, and cleansed the land. He is an awesome example of purity, obedience and passion.
I am also amazed that he died the way he did, presuming the Lord's protection, stepping out of the will of God to attack the King of Egypt, when he had no real quarrel with him - see below:
(NIV)2 Chronicles 35:20-24
After all this, when Josiah had set the temple in order, Necho king of Egypt went up to fight at Carchemish on the Euphrates, and Josiah marched out to meet him in battle. [21] But Necho sent messengers to him, saying, “What quarrel is there, king of Judah, between you and me? It is not you I am attacking at this time, but the house with which I am at war. God has told me to hurry; so stop opposing God, who is with me, or he will destroy you.” [22] Josiah, however, would not turn away from him, but disguised himself to engage him in battle. He would not listen to what Necho had said at God’s command but went to fight him on the plain of Megiddo. [23] Archers shot King Josiah, and he told his officers, “Take me away; I am badly wounded.” [24] So they took him out of his chariot, put him in his other chariot and brought him to Jerusalem, where he died. He was buried in the tombs of his ancestors, and all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for him.
I think its so important that we only fight the battles that the Lord directs us to fight. We don't need to go off searching for things to battle in our pursuit of God and His ways. I think so often in our lives we presume to know what the Lord is doing, based on some theme or some unrefined word we hear, or what someone else has heard, and we set off with zeal and passion and end up in a battle or situation the Lord is not in.
I have a good friend who said he had learned to stop and listen and make sure he knew what the Lord was saying, because in his early walk he had just started running as soon as He heard the Lord say something. The problem was the Lord would be warning him abut the cliff in that direction, but because he was already running he never heard that part, and off the cliff he would go.
It is my experience that the Lord will give each of us clear direction, and usually is only working on a couple of issues at a time. We shouldn't be taking on other things, just because someone else is battling in another area and we think its a good idea, or that by doing so we will show God how much we love Him. God is very capable of managing our uniqueness and dealing with each of us independently of each other, and doesn't need us messing ourselves up.
We also can have a tendency to judge others in areas we have been dealt with, thinking that God clearly wants them to get their act together in the same area too. Again this is presumng God's will. Most of the time, in my experience, God will deal directly with the brother or sister about their own life, and He rarely needs my help. That doesn't mean I don't encourage others, or speak the word of the Lord, or even give words of encouragement, but I can't presume to know God's will for someone else because of how He has dealt with me.
Also, the Lord clearly gives us areas of influence ad authority, and presumng His favor or authority in other areas can also get you in trouble. I think in the story of Josiah, his zeal outran his authority and commission. He wanted to capture Egypt for God by defeating the king and armies, but God had given him a clear focus of cleaning up his own kingdom and maintaining the kingdom in a state of pure worship, not expanding the kingdom. God appreciates our zeal for Him, but we must be careful to listen to His warnings. If Josiah would have turned back, he would have lived. As it was his loss to the King of Egypt brought Judah under a terrible tax burden and resulted in his son being carried off to Egypt in chains, where he died.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Hope, Riches, Power
This morning I am reading from Ephesians:
(NIV)Ephesians 1:17-23
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. [18] I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, [19] and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength [20] he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, [21] far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. [22] And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, [23] which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
I think this sentence is so important: "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe." Three key things we should be praying for each other and ourselves - hope, inheritance and power.
These are related to the eyes of our hearts being opened. I think this relates to real connection in our relationship with Him. Its in this place of real relationship that we discover who He thinks we are, how He thinks about us, and His will for us - this is our hope. We do have purpose and significance. He does want relatationship with us, regardless of our state of mind and heart. He has called us because He wants relationship with us.
The riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, is the church. Imagine that - we are His inheritance! There are great riches in the Body of Christ, in the people around us, and He wants us to discover the riches. His prayer is basically that our hearts might be enlightened to see the riches in those around us. That should be our heart attitude when we meet together, discovering and enjoying the riches hidden in our brothers and sisters.
Finally, His incomparably great power. Incomparable means nothing else is like this power. I know I have seen things and had experiences that nothing else can compare too. His desire is that we all have these types of experiences, and understanding. Nothing and no one is like our God. He wants the world to experience this reality. We need to believe that if this is His desire, then He will deliver experiences that are in line with this desire. He wants us convinced that nothing compares to Him, or too His power!
One could argue that these are Paul's prayers, but we know He wrote these words under the unction of the Holy Spirit, and was expressing the Holy Spirit's heart, and that the inclusion of these in the Holy Epistles means they are for us all, not just the Ephesians.
Lord we pray that we would have enlightened eyes in our hearts to know the hope tonwhoch you have called us, the riches of the Body of Christ and the incomparable power available to us! Amen Lord.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Arise and Shine
This morning I opened my Bible to one of my favorite verses in Isaiah:
(NIV)Isaiah 60:1-5
“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. [2] See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. [3] Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. [4] “Lift up your eyes and look about you: All assemble and come to you; your sons come from afar, and your daughters are carried on the hip. [5] Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy; the wealth on the seas will be brought to you, to you the riches of the nations will come.
I really believe this is the call to the Church in these increasingly dark days. We are supposed to rise up and shine! The Lord is our light, we are called to show Him to the world! His glory will rise upon us, and will appear over us! Oh Lord, help us to rise up, to shine Your light in the this dark world. Let us love like no other! May Your mercy and compassion, love, faithfulness and forgiveness flow out of us to the world. Fill our hearts with joy!
You are what we need and want. The nations long for You and when they see Your glory shining out, they will be drawn to it like moths to the flame. Lord we cry out for this generation, for Your people!
As I was praying this I was reminded of Isaiah 35:
(NIV)Isaiah 35:1-10
The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, [2] it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God. [3] Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; [4] say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.” [5] Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. [6] Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. [7] The burning sand will become a pool, the thirsty ground bubbling springs. In the haunts where jackals once lay, grass and reeds and papyrus will grow. [8] And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way. The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it. [9] No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there, [10] and those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Yes Lord, we pray this over the church, over ourselves. Strengthen our feeble hands, encourage our fearful hearts, bring healing and restoration. Let Your river of life flow out and quench the dry grounds, the desert, the hearts that are dying of thirst.
(NIV)Isaiah 60:1-5
“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. [2] See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. [3] Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. [4] “Lift up your eyes and look about you: All assemble and come to you; your sons come from afar, and your daughters are carried on the hip. [5] Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy; the wealth on the seas will be brought to you, to you the riches of the nations will come.
I really believe this is the call to the Church in these increasingly dark days. We are supposed to rise up and shine! The Lord is our light, we are called to show Him to the world! His glory will rise upon us, and will appear over us! Oh Lord, help us to rise up, to shine Your light in the this dark world. Let us love like no other! May Your mercy and compassion, love, faithfulness and forgiveness flow out of us to the world. Fill our hearts with joy!
You are what we need and want. The nations long for You and when they see Your glory shining out, they will be drawn to it like moths to the flame. Lord we cry out for this generation, for Your people!
As I was praying this I was reminded of Isaiah 35:
(NIV)Isaiah 35:1-10
The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, [2] it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God. [3] Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; [4] say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.” [5] Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. [6] Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. [7] The burning sand will become a pool, the thirsty ground bubbling springs. In the haunts where jackals once lay, grass and reeds and papyrus will grow. [8] And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way. The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it. [9] No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there, [10] and those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Yes Lord, we pray this over the church, over ourselves. Strengthen our feeble hands, encourage our fearful hearts, bring healing and restoration. Let Your river of life flow out and quench the dry grounds, the desert, the hearts that are dying of thirst.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Investing Ourselves
This morning I have been meditating on Matt 25:
(NIV)Matthew 25:34-40
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. [35] For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, [36] I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ [37] “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? [38] When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? [39] When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ [40] “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
So the question for us, is what are we doing? Where are our hearts aligned? This needs to be individual, not a body or organizational level. Personal lifestyles of love. Taking some of the things I have been reading about lately - starting little, being faithful in the little, seeing what God has put in your heart and stepping out into that in small ways. I know both Tina and I have a heart for the orphans, lost and unloved children, one could say the fatherless. This more than anything causes our hearts to be stirred. When we see a special on TV, or an article about a situation, we feel a special anointing of compassion. I believe the Lord leads us with our hearts.
As I look at the parable of the talents - Matt 25:14-30 - there is a starting with a small entrustment, and the expectation that we will invest with that which we have been entrusted. When reflecting on the heart stirring, I believe that is part of the entrustment I have been given, a piece of the Lord's compassion for the fatherless. This is one of the areas I am called to invest into.
Lord help us to realize that we have been given much, not just to prosper us, but to invest into others, through love and service and relationship.
(NIV)Matthew 25:34-40
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. [35] For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, [36] I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ [37] “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? [38] When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? [39] When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ [40] “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
So the question for us, is what are we doing? Where are our hearts aligned? This needs to be individual, not a body or organizational level. Personal lifestyles of love. Taking some of the things I have been reading about lately - starting little, being faithful in the little, seeing what God has put in your heart and stepping out into that in small ways. I know both Tina and I have a heart for the orphans, lost and unloved children, one could say the fatherless. This more than anything causes our hearts to be stirred. When we see a special on TV, or an article about a situation, we feel a special anointing of compassion. I believe the Lord leads us with our hearts.
As I look at the parable of the talents - Matt 25:14-30 - there is a starting with a small entrustment, and the expectation that we will invest with that which we have been entrusted. When reflecting on the heart stirring, I believe that is part of the entrustment I have been given, a piece of the Lord's compassion for the fatherless. This is one of the areas I am called to invest into.
Lord help us to realize that we have been given much, not just to prosper us, but to invest into others, through love and service and relationship.
Friday, November 16, 2012
God's Awesome Character
I was reading from Exodus 34 this morning and this is where God makes the covenant with Moses:
(NIV)Exodus 34:5-7, 10
Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the Lord. [6] And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, [7] maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”
[10] Then the Lord said: “I am making a covenant with you. Before all your people I will do wonders never before done in any nation in all the world. The people you live among will see how awesome is the work that I, the Lord, will do for you.
I love these verses because they so clearly state how God wants to reveal Himself to us. He is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love for us, forgiving our wickedness, sin and rebellion. What an awesome character list.
I was thinking about how we, as Christians, are so often portrayed as angry, judgemental, stupid and bigoted. I am sure that the Lord would want His Bride,the Church, seen in the same light, with the same characteristics. Lord help us to truly represent You so that when people meet us, they meet You shining through us, displaying Your character.
I also like the part where God promises to do wonders never before seen, demonstrating how awesome is the work that He will do for them! What a great promise! Lord I long for days of seeing You do astounding things, so that we, and those around us, might understand how truly awesome Yu are in Your compassion, mercy, love, faithfulness and forgiveness!
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Jesus' Glory In The Church
This morning I felt like reading John 17:
(NIV)John 17:20-24
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, [21] that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. [22] I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one--- [23] I in them and you in me---so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. [24] “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.
The word that stood out to me this morning was 'glory'.
In verse 22 Jesus says that He has given them the glory that we might be one as He is one with the Father. That is an interesting prayer. He is saying that we, the Church, were given His Glory which will bring about unity. I don't know if we have any grasp of that idea. We have been given, and are thus bearers of His Glory. The word translated Glory in the Greek is Doxa which is pronounced dox'-ah.
Its Definition is:
1. opinion, judgment, view
2. opinion, estimate, whether good or bad concerning someone a. in the NT always a good opinion concerning one, resulting in praise, honour, and glory
3. splendour, brightness a. of the moon, sun, stars b. magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace c. majesty 1. a thing belonging to God a. the kingly majesty which belongs to him as supreme ruler, majesty in the sense of the absolute perfection of the deity 2. a thing belonging to Christ a. the kingly majesty of the Messiah b. the absolutely perfect inward or personal excellency of Christ; the majesty 3. of the angels a. as apparent in their exterior brightness
4. a most glorious condition, most exalted state a. of that condition with God the Father in heaven to which Christ was raised after he had achieved his work on earth b. the glorious condition of blessedness into which is appointed and promised that true Christians shall enter after their Saviour's return from heaven
I don't see the Church in this light much at all. I believe we will see a change in the Church, a restoration of His Glory. Pastor Bill Johnson believes the Glory will be one of the outstanding characteristics of the next major move of the Holy Spirit in the Church.
Jesus prays in verse 24 that He wants us to see His Glory, and to be with Him where He is...
He is seats in the Throne at the right hand of the Father in Heaven, yet He is present in our gatherings too. Its in that place of His presence that He wants us to experience His Glory. I say Yes and Amen Lord! We want to experience Your Glory. We want to know that the Church is far more than a meeting of good people, but that it's is meant to bear Your Glory - Your magnificence, majesty, brighteness and splendor. That this may result in our perfect unity with each other, and be a light to the world.
(NIV)John 17:20-24
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, [21] that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. [22] I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one--- [23] I in them and you in me---so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. [24] “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.
The word that stood out to me this morning was 'glory'.
In verse 22 Jesus says that He has given them the glory that we might be one as He is one with the Father. That is an interesting prayer. He is saying that we, the Church, were given His Glory which will bring about unity. I don't know if we have any grasp of that idea. We have been given, and are thus bearers of His Glory. The word translated Glory in the Greek is Doxa which is pronounced dox'-ah.
Its Definition is:
1. opinion, judgment, view
2. opinion, estimate, whether good or bad concerning someone a. in the NT always a good opinion concerning one, resulting in praise, honour, and glory
3. splendour, brightness a. of the moon, sun, stars b. magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace c. majesty 1. a thing belonging to God a. the kingly majesty which belongs to him as supreme ruler, majesty in the sense of the absolute perfection of the deity 2. a thing belonging to Christ a. the kingly majesty of the Messiah b. the absolutely perfect inward or personal excellency of Christ; the majesty 3. of the angels a. as apparent in their exterior brightness
4. a most glorious condition, most exalted state a. of that condition with God the Father in heaven to which Christ was raised after he had achieved his work on earth b. the glorious condition of blessedness into which is appointed and promised that true Christians shall enter after their Saviour's return from heaven
I don't see the Church in this light much at all. I believe we will see a change in the Church, a restoration of His Glory. Pastor Bill Johnson believes the Glory will be one of the outstanding characteristics of the next major move of the Holy Spirit in the Church.
Jesus prays in verse 24 that He wants us to see His Glory, and to be with Him where He is...
He is seats in the Throne at the right hand of the Father in Heaven, yet He is present in our gatherings too. Its in that place of His presence that He wants us to experience His Glory. I say Yes and Amen Lord! We want to experience Your Glory. We want to know that the Church is far more than a meeting of good people, but that it's is meant to bear Your Glory - Your magnificence, majesty, brighteness and splendor. That this may result in our perfect unity with each other, and be a light to the world.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Stand With Our Brothers and Sisters
Yesterday I was reading Obadiah, and was struck by the passages against Edom / Esau for standing by and letting Jacob (their brothers) be attacked and doing nothing.
(NIV)Obadiah 1:10-15
Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever. [11] On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them. [12] You should not gloat over your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble. [13] You should not march through the gates of my people in the day of their disaster, nor gloat over them in their calamity in the day of their disaster, nor seize their wealth in the day of their disaster. [14] You should not wait at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives, nor hand over their survivors in the day of their trouble. [15] “The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.
Standing by and watching, gloating over their fall, are just as bad as actively participating -in the Lord's eyes. In His eyes this is all violence. One of the things we need to learn to do is defend our fellow brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ. Choosing to stand by them - in support and care, rather than in judgement. Lord, help us to rightly discern the Body of Christ, and rightly treat those who are our brothers and sisters, bringing them aid in their day of trouble.
More importantly, not asking or thinking about how they got into the trouble, etc. For clearly Jacob's (Israel) trouble came form disobedience and not following the Lord. How often do we immediately assume that people who are going through difficulty, deserve it, and then stand by and watch them go through it? Should not our response be to come along side them to help them.
Paul writes: (NIV)1 Corinthians 12:25-27
'...so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. [26] If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. [27] Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it."
John writes: (NIV)1 John 3:16-18
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. [17] If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? [18] Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
Lord, help us to love the body and encourage and strengthen the body. As Paul writes in his first letter to the Corinthians: (NIV)1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. [8] Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
I think specifically verse 6-8 are applicable here: " Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." Amen Lord!
As I was reading through this I felt the Lord say this is important for those of us who live in KC, and are confronted with the recent news about IHOP (International House of Prayer). Let us stand with our brothers and sisters, regardless of our thoughts about that ministry or Mike Bickle. We must love them and support them and believe the best about them! For our love for each other must be true. "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails"
(NIV)Obadiah 1:10-15
Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever. [11] On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them. [12] You should not gloat over your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble. [13] You should not march through the gates of my people in the day of their disaster, nor gloat over them in their calamity in the day of their disaster, nor seize their wealth in the day of their disaster. [14] You should not wait at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives, nor hand over their survivors in the day of their trouble. [15] “The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.
Standing by and watching, gloating over their fall, are just as bad as actively participating -in the Lord's eyes. In His eyes this is all violence. One of the things we need to learn to do is defend our fellow brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ. Choosing to stand by them - in support and care, rather than in judgement. Lord, help us to rightly discern the Body of Christ, and rightly treat those who are our brothers and sisters, bringing them aid in their day of trouble.
More importantly, not asking or thinking about how they got into the trouble, etc. For clearly Jacob's (Israel) trouble came form disobedience and not following the Lord. How often do we immediately assume that people who are going through difficulty, deserve it, and then stand by and watch them go through it? Should not our response be to come along side them to help them.
Paul writes: (NIV)1 Corinthians 12:25-27
'...so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. [26] If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. [27] Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it."
John writes: (NIV)1 John 3:16-18
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. [17] If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? [18] Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
Lord, help us to love the body and encourage and strengthen the body. As Paul writes in his first letter to the Corinthians: (NIV)1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. [8] Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
I think specifically verse 6-8 are applicable here: " Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." Amen Lord!
As I was reading through this I felt the Lord say this is important for those of us who live in KC, and are confronted with the recent news about IHOP (International House of Prayer). Let us stand with our brothers and sisters, regardless of our thoughts about that ministry or Mike Bickle. We must love them and support them and believe the best about them! For our love for each other must be true. "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails"
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Humble Leaders
This morning I was thinking about the leadership model in the church and how important it is to have healthy, balanced leaders. I was directed to Daniel and was reading from the first couple of chapters:
(NIV)Daniel 2:27-30
Daniel replied, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, [28] but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these: [29] “As Your Majesty was lying there, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen. [30] As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than anyone else alive, but so that Your Majesty may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind.
I was captivated by Daniel's humble reply to the King. Rather than use the gift of God to position himself before others, or flaunt his abilities, he saw that this was God revealing himself through Daniel. So often those in church leadership get this wrong. They think that God's gifts to them is meant to lift them up above others, and so allow themselves and even encourage others to put them on a pedastal.
God's gifts are meant to Glorify God, and point to Him. People will recognize the benefits of the gifts, but should never use these gifts primarily for personal gain or recognition. It is so important that leaders never lose sight that they are servants and representatives of God, and that is a humble perspective. How quickly pride sneaks in and causes one to think of themselves in the wrong perspective. Lord, please help us all to keep ourselves in proper perspective. I am reminded on Paul's letter to the Philippians:
(NIV)Philippians 2:3-6
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
Amen Lord!
(NIV)Daniel 2:27-30
Daniel replied, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, [28] but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these: [29] “As Your Majesty was lying there, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen. [30] As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than anyone else alive, but so that Your Majesty may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind.
I was captivated by Daniel's humble reply to the King. Rather than use the gift of God to position himself before others, or flaunt his abilities, he saw that this was God revealing himself through Daniel. So often those in church leadership get this wrong. They think that God's gifts to them is meant to lift them up above others, and so allow themselves and even encourage others to put them on a pedastal.
God's gifts are meant to Glorify God, and point to Him. People will recognize the benefits of the gifts, but should never use these gifts primarily for personal gain or recognition. It is so important that leaders never lose sight that they are servants and representatives of God, and that is a humble perspective. How quickly pride sneaks in and causes one to think of themselves in the wrong perspective. Lord, please help us all to keep ourselves in proper perspective. I am reminded on Paul's letter to the Philippians:
(NIV)Philippians 2:3-6
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
Amen Lord!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
I Was Chosen
Reading 1 Peter today, what a great start to a letter!
(NIV)1 Peter 1:1-2
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, [2] who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.
I could almost hear him saying it to me. It is so good to remember that God chose me, that its through the work of the Holy Spirit that I have faith and am able to obey Jesus, and that its through His sacrifice that I am saved. I gladly accept the grace and peace in abundance! In fact I will gladly sign up for a double portion!
Thank You Lord for choosing me and setting me on the path of life! I guess it was another type of election, one I will be forever thankful to have received.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Do Not Fret
I am reading Ps 37 this morning and it brings me peace.
(NIV)Psalm 37:1-13
Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; [2] for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. [3] Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. [4] Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. [5] Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: [6] He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun. [7] Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. [8] Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret---it leads only to evil. [9] For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land. [10] A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. [11] But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. [12] The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them; [13] but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming.
Two words - 'Eternal Perspective' are helpful this morning. Whatever our thoughts or feelings about the election, the reality is that God is still God. In His perspective, this is all part of the plan that leads to the unveiling of the Church as His Bride, and His glorious return. Many people have lived in difficult times, with unrighteous rulers, and God continues to bless them and provide them in the midst of those situations.
For us Christians, our job is to love, to be representatives of the Kingdom, and to let the light that is in us shine out in this ever darkening world. As Peter said: "Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor." 1 Peter 2:17
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Prophetic Destiny
This morning I opened up my bible to Ezra 8, which I haven't read in a very long time, but quite appropriate. It is the return to Jerusalem to re-establish the temple and worship. This is about the preparation and provision of the Lord.
(NIV)Ezra 8:21-23, 28-32, 36
There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. [22] I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him. ” [23] So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.
[28] I said to them, “You as well as these articles are consecrated to the Lord. The silver and gold are a freewill offering to the Lord, the God of your ancestors. [29] Guard them carefully until you weigh them out in the chambers of the house of the Lord in Jerusalem before the leading priests and the Levites and the family heads of Israel.” [30] Then the priests and Levites received the silver and gold and sacred articles that had been weighed out to be taken to the house of our God in Jerusalem. [31] On the twelfth day of the first month we set out from the Ahava Canal to go to Jerusalem. The hand of our God was on us, and he protected us from enemies and bandits along the way. [32] So we arrived in Jerusalem, where we rested three days.
[36] They also delivered the king’s orders to the royal satraps and to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, who then gave assistance to the people and to the house of God.
I think this is an awesome scripture, because this is actually the fulfillment of a prophecy that Isaiah gave years earlier. The beginning of the Book of Ezra names Cyrus as the King who begins the process of the restoration of the temple and Jerusalem.
(NIV)Ezra 1:1, 7-8
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing:
[7] Moreover, King Cyrus brought out the articles belonging to the temple of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzar had carried away from Jerusalem and had placed in the temple of his god. [8] Cyrus king of Persia had them brought by Mithredath the treasurer, who counted them out to Sheshbazzar the prince of Judah.
The original prophecy is given in Isaiah 45. At the very least this was 150 years before it actually happened!!! Yet God named the king by name and said exactly what he was going to do. If you ever wonder if God really has a plan for Your life, here is a great example of His fore-knowledge and purposes being announced ahead of time.
(NIV)Isaiah 45:1, 3-5, 13
“This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of to subdue nations before him and to strip kings of their armor, to open doors before him so that gates will not be shut:
[3] I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name. [4] For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honor, though you do not acknowledge me. [5] I am the Lord, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me,
[13] I will raise up Cyrus in my righteousness: I will make all his ways straight. He will rebuild my city and set my exiles free, but not for a price or reward, says the Lord Almighty.”
So putting this in our context, this would be the equivalent of someone in 1862 naming the next the President of the United States in 2012, and speaking about how he would impact the church in his day! God doesn't always announce His plans in such a public way, but He could. What is true about God in 700BC, is true about Him today. In Psalm 139 God speaks about knowing us from our mother's womb, knowing all our days before we were ever born. What's true about King Cyrus is true about you and me.
In Summary, God does have a plan for us, He has spoken about our prophetic destiny, He does know our name, and He will see His purposes fulfilled.
(NIV)Ezra 8:21-23, 28-32, 36
There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. [22] I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him. ” [23] So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.
[28] I said to them, “You as well as these articles are consecrated to the Lord. The silver and gold are a freewill offering to the Lord, the God of your ancestors. [29] Guard them carefully until you weigh them out in the chambers of the house of the Lord in Jerusalem before the leading priests and the Levites and the family heads of Israel.” [30] Then the priests and Levites received the silver and gold and sacred articles that had been weighed out to be taken to the house of our God in Jerusalem. [31] On the twelfth day of the first month we set out from the Ahava Canal to go to Jerusalem. The hand of our God was on us, and he protected us from enemies and bandits along the way. [32] So we arrived in Jerusalem, where we rested three days.
[36] They also delivered the king’s orders to the royal satraps and to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, who then gave assistance to the people and to the house of God.
I think this is an awesome scripture, because this is actually the fulfillment of a prophecy that Isaiah gave years earlier. The beginning of the Book of Ezra names Cyrus as the King who begins the process of the restoration of the temple and Jerusalem.
(NIV)Ezra 1:1, 7-8
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing:
[7] Moreover, King Cyrus brought out the articles belonging to the temple of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzar had carried away from Jerusalem and had placed in the temple of his god. [8] Cyrus king of Persia had them brought by Mithredath the treasurer, who counted them out to Sheshbazzar the prince of Judah.
The original prophecy is given in Isaiah 45. At the very least this was 150 years before it actually happened!!! Yet God named the king by name and said exactly what he was going to do. If you ever wonder if God really has a plan for Your life, here is a great example of His fore-knowledge and purposes being announced ahead of time.
(NIV)Isaiah 45:1, 3-5, 13
“This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of to subdue nations before him and to strip kings of their armor, to open doors before him so that gates will not be shut:
[3] I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name. [4] For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honor, though you do not acknowledge me. [5] I am the Lord, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me,
[13] I will raise up Cyrus in my righteousness: I will make all his ways straight. He will rebuild my city and set my exiles free, but not for a price or reward, says the Lord Almighty.”
So putting this in our context, this would be the equivalent of someone in 1862 naming the next the President of the United States in 2012, and speaking about how he would impact the church in his day! God doesn't always announce His plans in such a public way, but He could. What is true about God in 700BC, is true about Him today. In Psalm 139 God speaks about knowing us from our mother's womb, knowing all our days before we were ever born. What's true about King Cyrus is true about you and me.
In Summary, God does have a plan for us, He has spoken about our prophetic destiny, He does know our name, and He will see His purposes fulfilled.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Of Shepherds and Fellow Sheep
This morning I opened my bible to Ezk 34, a whole chapter on shepherds. The following verse definitely hits home:
(NIV)Ezekiel 34:2-6
“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to you shepherds of Israel who only take care of yourselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? [3] You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock. [4] You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. You have ruled them harshly and brutally. [5] So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild animals. [6] My sheep wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill. They were scattered over the whole earth, and no one searched or looked for them.
I think the most critical verse is verse 5: "So they were scattered because there was no shepherd..." although there were 'shepherds' in the Lord's eyes there weren't ANY! What a terrible indictment. I think that the main job description for a pastor is right here. Strengthen the weak, heal the sick, bind up the injured, bring back the strays, search for the lost, lead them with gentleness and mercy, lead them to safety and good food, protect them from the wild animals and give them a place to rest and settle.
Interestingly there is also a word for the sheep in verses 17-23.
(NIV)Ezekiel 34:17-22
“ ‘As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats. [18] Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? [19] Must my flock feed on what you have trampled and drink what you have muddied with your feet?
[20] “ ‘Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says to them: See, I myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. [21] Because you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak sheep with your horns until you have driven them away, [22] I will save my flock, and they will no longer be plundered. I will judge between one sheep and another.
How many of the sheep are not aware of others, only after what they can get, and not worried about others. The church is not meant to be a survival of the fittest environment, but rather a place where all are welcomed and all are cared for and nurtured equally. Obviously sick and wounded might require more attention and interaction initially, but all must be nurtured and fed and given a place to rest.
I think we need to learn to have a body mentality, rather than an individualistic mentality, especially here in the US. We are so often concerned primarily with ourselves, we may not even notice how our actions are affecting others (see verse 18-19 above). Let us open our eyes and look around and help each other. Let us speak words of life and give life giving water to drink - (NIV)John 4:14 ..."but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Amen Lord, help us to become healthy and strong, and concerned for all those around us.
(NIV)Ezekiel 34:2-6
“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to you shepherds of Israel who only take care of yourselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? [3] You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock. [4] You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. You have ruled them harshly and brutally. [5] So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild animals. [6] My sheep wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill. They were scattered over the whole earth, and no one searched or looked for them.
I think the most critical verse is verse 5: "So they were scattered because there was no shepherd..." although there were 'shepherds' in the Lord's eyes there weren't ANY! What a terrible indictment. I think that the main job description for a pastor is right here. Strengthen the weak, heal the sick, bind up the injured, bring back the strays, search for the lost, lead them with gentleness and mercy, lead them to safety and good food, protect them from the wild animals and give them a place to rest and settle.
Interestingly there is also a word for the sheep in verses 17-23.
(NIV)Ezekiel 34:17-22
“ ‘As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats. [18] Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? [19] Must my flock feed on what you have trampled and drink what you have muddied with your feet?
[20] “ ‘Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says to them: See, I myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. [21] Because you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak sheep with your horns until you have driven them away, [22] I will save my flock, and they will no longer be plundered. I will judge between one sheep and another.
How many of the sheep are not aware of others, only after what they can get, and not worried about others. The church is not meant to be a survival of the fittest environment, but rather a place where all are welcomed and all are cared for and nurtured equally. Obviously sick and wounded might require more attention and interaction initially, but all must be nurtured and fed and given a place to rest.
I think we need to learn to have a body mentality, rather than an individualistic mentality, especially here in the US. We are so often concerned primarily with ourselves, we may not even notice how our actions are affecting others (see verse 18-19 above). Let us open our eyes and look around and help each other. Let us speak words of life and give life giving water to drink - (NIV)John 4:14 ..."but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Amen Lord, help us to become healthy and strong, and concerned for all those around us.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Seeking Treasure
As I sat down to pray I was thinking of the importance of prayer, of a time alone with the Lord. I was reminded of the following verses from Matthew:
(NIV)Matthew 13:44-46
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. [45] “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. [46] When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.
Here is described the great treasure that is the Kingdom of Heaven, which for each of us is entered through a relationship with the Lord. It described here as the greatest treasure, something more valuable than the sum of everything the man owned. The question of or us is the how we treat our relationship with the Lord, our membership in the Kingdom? Am I valuing my time with Him, correctly? Am I even taking time just dedicated to the Lord?
It's interestinig that in both examples the Kingdom is described as something to be found. It is there, we just need to be looking for it. We need to be seeking God. I am reminded of Isaiah 55:6: "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near." He is always near, He is always waiting. He is the treasure!
(NIV)Matthew 13:44-46
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. [45] “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. [46] When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.
Here is described the great treasure that is the Kingdom of Heaven, which for each of us is entered through a relationship with the Lord. It described here as the greatest treasure, something more valuable than the sum of everything the man owned. The question of or us is the how we treat our relationship with the Lord, our membership in the Kingdom? Am I valuing my time with Him, correctly? Am I even taking time just dedicated to the Lord?
It's interestinig that in both examples the Kingdom is described as something to be found. It is there, we just need to be looking for it. We need to be seeking God. I am reminded of Isaiah 55:6: "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near." He is always near, He is always waiting. He is the treasure!
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