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.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
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!
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
A Wisdom Check
This morning I was reading in James. I really like the verses listed below because they help explain what wisdom for God should feel like and look like.
(NIV)James 3:17-18
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. [18] Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
I think this a good list of things to compare ourselves against as we seek the Lord's wisdom. Checking our hearts to see if they line up with these characteristics, a wisdom check! :-)
(NIV)James 3:17-18
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. [18] Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
I think this a good list of things to compare ourselves against as we seek the Lord's wisdom. Checking our hearts to see if they line up with these characteristics, a wisdom check! :-)
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Spreading the Load
(NIV)Numbers 11:16-17
The Lord said to Moses: “Bring me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. Have them come to the tent of meeting, that they may stand there with you. [17] I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take some of the power of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them. They will share the burden of the people with you so that you will not have to carry it alone.
This section, where the Lord spreads Moses anointing, is important as it speaks of impartation and the desire of the Lord to raise up help. I think its helpful to know that even in Moses case the Lord always surrounded him with people to help him, I.e. Aaron, Miriam, Joshua, and seventy elders. We need to see in our lives that the Lord doesn't call us to walk out our lives and calls by ourselves, but rather puts people in our lives to help. This is a good model for life and ministry.
God wants to bring people along side us to spread the load. Let us lay down our independence and welcome the help.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Freedom, Love and Faith
(NIV)Galatians 5:1, 4-6, 13-14
[1] It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
[4] You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. [5] For through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith the righteousness for which we hope. [6] For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
[13] You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh ; rather, serve one another humbly in love. [14] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
What an awesome section of scripture talking about freedom and love and faith. The three are so closely interwoven. Because of His love for us, Jesus set us free from the requirements of the law. It is by grace through our faith that we appropriate that freedom, and it ultimately bears fruit in our lives as love for others and ourselves. I could sit and think about this for years and not plumb the dept of it all.
There is also a balance to maintain, as a focus on one component without the others leads to wrong thinking and action. Some people focus on freedom and end up only concerned about themselves. Some focus on love of themselves rather than others, again ending in selfishness. Some focus on faith so much that they lose any understanding of the value of relationships. It is critical that we maintain a right attitude of gratitude and love towards the Lord, for what He has accomplished. We must maintain love for ourselves and others. We must walk in faith - depending on the Lord to guide us and help us to understand the real meaning of freedom.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Generous On Every Occasion
(NIV)2 Corinthians 9:6, 10-11
[6] Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.
[10] Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. [11] You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
I like these verses as they remind me who actually is the provider. So often I can somehow take some ownership of my provision, when in reality it all comes from Him. The promise of increased righteousness, increased seed, and enrichment in every way is awesome.
As I was reading this I was thinking of the ways in which I am not generous in every occasion. I think I am most ungenerous with my time and attention. So often my reaction when seeing someone in need, or something that will require my time, is that I will walk on by because whatever I am focused on presently seems to me to be more important, but usually I am just being selfish. I don't want to take out of "my time", and waste it.
Lord, I think about Your life and You always made time for each person that came to you. The disciples tried to keep people away so You would not be bothered, but You always stopped and met them - Matt 19:13-14 (little children) and Mark 10:46-52 (Bartimeaus). Lord, help me to take time for Your people, so that I might be generous on every occasion.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Flames, Fire and Furnace
I was reading Obadiah last night, and saw these verses:
(NIV)Obadiah 1:17-18
But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance. [18] Jacob will be a fire and Joseph a flame; Esau will be stubble, and they will set him on fire and destroy him. There will be no survivors from Esau.” The Lord has spoken.
There Are multiple commentaries on these verses, most think they have to do with the ability of God's people to destroy their enemies. I think its interesting that He is saying that the people, the tribes will become fire and flame. I like the fire and flame references, as I am reminded of the Holy Spirit, and how when He burns in ones life, they are consumed with Passion for God, and the things of His heart. It also reminds me of another verse:
(NIV)Isaiah 31:9
Their stronghold will fall because of terror; at the sight of the battle standard their commanders will panic, ” declares the Lord, whose fire is in Zion, whose furnace is in Jerusalem.
There is definitely a component of the Fire of the Lord that is related to His warfare. The verse from Isaiah is the end of a verse where the Lord is rebuking Israel for choosing to turn to Egypt rather the the Lord, when they were threatened by Assyria. He is speaking about the Assyrians, when He makes the statement about fire and furnace.
The words can be translated light or lamp and cook stove, or fire and furnace, or God's illumination and wrath. If I look at the first combination, it seems to be where God lives, or at least inhabits. The second combination reminds me of purification, which definitely happens if you are in His presence. The third combination seems like its tied to the nature of God, and His characteristics, of wisdom and protector. It is a good reminder to me of the nature of God, who is so much greater than we can comprehend. When He comes we can experience all of these, His presence, His provision, His righteousness and purity, His wisdom and His protection. We might experience them all at the same time, or in seasons.
Lastly, when God chooses a place to dwell, He is jealous over it, and protects it - just like He did with Zion and Jerusalem. The Church is His body, and we are individually His dwelling places. Amen Lord, inhabit us!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Immeasurably More
(NIV)Ephesians 3:20-21
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, [21] to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
What an incredible statement, God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine... I can ask for very much and imagine very much, and yet not come close to God's abilities. God chooses to display Hs abilities through us - "according to His power that is at work within us". Our invitation is to allow the Lord's power to work through us to expand our understanding of His abilities, and plans, increasing our capacity to ask and imagine, so that He can continue to be glorified through the Church!
Lord You desire so much more for us than we can imagine, and yet most of us settle for less than mediocracy. Help us to break out of our limited expectations and unbelief and start believing You for immeasurably more than we can ask or even imagine. We want to see You glorified in the church!
Lord, expand our understanding! Help us to see how wide, deep, long and high Your love for us truly is!
Monday, October 22, 2012
Entering God's Rest (3)
I am reading from Hebrews:
(NIV)Hebrews 3:7-14
So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice, [8] do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness, [9] where your ancestors tested and tried me, though for forty years they saw what I did. [10] That is why I was angry with that generation; I said, ‘Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways.’ [11] So I declared on oath in my anger, ‘They shall never enter my rest.’ ” [12] See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. [13] But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. [14] We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end.
(NIV)Hebrews 4:7-11
God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” [8] For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. [9] There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; [10] for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. [11] Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.
I was reading the book Supernatural Anointing by Julia Loren and she had an interview with Heidi Baker, talking about how she has learned to lean back into the Father, and rest in His embrace when ministering. She used to work, work, work, but found that in the Father she could literally rest. She could lean back and go low and slow and just do what she sees the Father doing. The Father does the work, and in that place of intimacy she is able lean back and let Him.
I find the passages from Hebrews interesting in that they talk about entering God's rest, and specifically Heb 4:10, "... for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works,..." This verse speaks of resting from our works, because we have entered into God's rest. I was rereading some of my entries in my journal about this passage and God's rest, and in large part He was speaking about stepping into their inheritance, see the fulfillment of God's promise and plan in their lives.
The word that grabbed my attention was 'today', and I believe this is the key point of the author of the letter to the Hebrews, is that this is a present word. Today can be today, literally. It is the day for believing that which the Lord has said; it is the day to remember what the Lord has done; it is the day to step into our inheritance; it is the day to enter into God's rest and possess that which He desires us to possess. The work required on our part is faith! Faith in Him comes from knowing Him, understanding Him, believing His words and embracing our relationship with Him. Faith isn't something we work up, but it too comes from rest. Resting in Him. Once we step into that place, our work is over. We don't have to strive, or work like a servant, but rather rest as a son or daughter in our Father's embrace.
(NIV)Hebrews 3:7-14
So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice, [8] do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness, [9] where your ancestors tested and tried me, though for forty years they saw what I did. [10] That is why I was angry with that generation; I said, ‘Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways.’ [11] So I declared on oath in my anger, ‘They shall never enter my rest.’ ” [12] See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. [13] But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. [14] We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end.
(NIV)Hebrews 4:7-11
God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” [8] For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. [9] There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; [10] for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. [11] Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.
I was reading the book Supernatural Anointing by Julia Loren and she had an interview with Heidi Baker, talking about how she has learned to lean back into the Father, and rest in His embrace when ministering. She used to work, work, work, but found that in the Father she could literally rest. She could lean back and go low and slow and just do what she sees the Father doing. The Father does the work, and in that place of intimacy she is able lean back and let Him.
I find the passages from Hebrews interesting in that they talk about entering God's rest, and specifically Heb 4:10, "... for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works,..." This verse speaks of resting from our works, because we have entered into God's rest. I was rereading some of my entries in my journal about this passage and God's rest, and in large part He was speaking about stepping into their inheritance, see the fulfillment of God's promise and plan in their lives.
The word that grabbed my attention was 'today', and I believe this is the key point of the author of the letter to the Hebrews, is that this is a present word. Today can be today, literally. It is the day for believing that which the Lord has said; it is the day to remember what the Lord has done; it is the day to step into our inheritance; it is the day to enter into God's rest and possess that which He desires us to possess. The work required on our part is faith! Faith in Him comes from knowing Him, understanding Him, believing His words and embracing our relationship with Him. Faith isn't something we work up, but it too comes from rest. Resting in Him. Once we step into that place, our work is over. We don't have to strive, or work like a servant, but rather rest as a son or daughter in our Father's embrace.
Friday, October 12, 2012
No Situation is Hopeless
(NIV)Exodus 14:1-4, 15-16, 19, 21-22
Then the Lord said to Moses, [2] “Tell the Israelites to turn back and encamp near Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea. They are to encamp by the sea, directly opposite Baal Zephon. [3] Pharaoh will think, ‘The Israelites are wandering around the land in confusion, hemmed in by the desert.’ [4] And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and he will pursue them. But I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord.” So the Israelites did this.
[15] Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. [16] Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.
[19] Then the angel of God, who had been traveling in front of Israel’s army, withdrew and went behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from in front and stood behind them, coming between the armies of Egypt and Israel. Throughout the night the cloud brought darkness to the one side and light to the other side; so neither went near the other all night long.
[21] Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, [22] and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.
This morning I was praying and was reminded of this situation that the Israelites found themselves in after leaving Eygpt. The Lord had them camp against the sea, so that the Egyptians would think they were trapped, and decide to attack. From the Israelites perspective they were trapped in a hopeless situation, but God had other plans, it was a perfect trap for the prideful Egyptians.
I thought about how many of us find ourselves in seemingly impossible circumstances, feeling trapped with no means of escape. I felt like the Lord wanted to remind us of the fact that with Him there is always a way to be rescued. He will intervene, and He will rescue us if we put our hope in Him and follow His directions. He is faithful to save His people!
I felt like we needed to know there is no hopeless situation that God can't step into and rescue us? out of! Amen Lord!
Then the Lord said to Moses, [2] “Tell the Israelites to turn back and encamp near Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea. They are to encamp by the sea, directly opposite Baal Zephon. [3] Pharaoh will think, ‘The Israelites are wandering around the land in confusion, hemmed in by the desert.’ [4] And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and he will pursue them. But I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord.” So the Israelites did this.
[15] Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. [16] Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.
[19] Then the angel of God, who had been traveling in front of Israel’s army, withdrew and went behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from in front and stood behind them, coming between the armies of Egypt and Israel. Throughout the night the cloud brought darkness to the one side and light to the other side; so neither went near the other all night long.
[21] Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, [22] and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.
This morning I was praying and was reminded of this situation that the Israelites found themselves in after leaving Eygpt. The Lord had them camp against the sea, so that the Egyptians would think they were trapped, and decide to attack. From the Israelites perspective they were trapped in a hopeless situation, but God had other plans, it was a perfect trap for the prideful Egyptians.
I thought about how many of us find ourselves in seemingly impossible circumstances, feeling trapped with no means of escape. I felt like the Lord wanted to remind us of the fact that with Him there is always a way to be rescued. He will intervene, and He will rescue us if we put our hope in Him and follow His directions. He is faithful to save His people!
I felt like we needed to know there is no hopeless situation that God can't step into and rescue us? out of! Amen Lord!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Help In Any Situation
I am reading in Romans:
(NIV)Romans 8:11
And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.
I am so grateful for this promise Lord, and I claim this truth for me. I know Your Spirit lives within me, so I ask that you would pour Your life into my mortal body, bringing healing and health, peace and fruitfulness.
When one grasps the reality of this verse, that the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, lives in us, then we must know that change is possible in every circumstamce, no matter how difficult or troubling. He has the power to raise one from the dead, He certainly has the power to deal with any situation less serious than death.
I find this verse full of hope and life. Sometimes I can't see past the situation and despair because of my limited perspective, but God is able to deliver from death, so He is able to deliver me from anything else as well.
Thank You Lord for Your Word and the hope it inspires.
(NIV)Romans 8:11
And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.
I am so grateful for this promise Lord, and I claim this truth for me. I know Your Spirit lives within me, so I ask that you would pour Your life into my mortal body, bringing healing and health, peace and fruitfulness.
When one grasps the reality of this verse, that the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, lives in us, then we must know that change is possible in every circumstamce, no matter how difficult or troubling. He has the power to raise one from the dead, He certainly has the power to deal with any situation less serious than death.
I find this verse full of hope and life. Sometimes I can't see past the situation and despair because of my limited perspective, but God is able to deliver from death, so He is able to deliver me from anything else as well.
Thank You Lord for Your Word and the hope it inspires.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Giving Thanks Opens The Door
This morning I was feeling a bit disconnected from the Lord. I felt led to read on thanksgiving.
(NIV)1 Corinthians 10:16-17
Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? [17] Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.
I had heard this phrase before, but it hadn't really struck me as it does this morning. The early church called the cup of wine, symbolizing Jesus' blood, the cup of thanksgiving. The NASB translates it the cup of blessing, which appears closer to the Greek. The Greek word is Eulogia, pronounced: yoo-log-ee'-ah
Definition
1. praise, laudation, panegyric: of Christ or God
2. fine discourse, polished language
3. an invocation of blessing, benediction
4. consecration
5. a (concrete) blessing, benefit
So in reality, its both outgoing and incoming. Outgoing praise, thanks and celebration for what has been accomplished. It is also blessing and continual benefit from God to those who participate. What an awesome deal, as we praise God and give thanks for what He has done, we in turn receive continued blessing.
I am reminded of Psalm 100:
(NIV)Psalm 100:1-5
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. [2] Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. [3] Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his ; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. [4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. [5] For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Specifically, verse four states that we enter into His gates and courts through thanksgiving and praise, in other words we enter into His presence, where we experience His love, goodness and faithfulness. In His presence we are blessed and touched and changed. So, in a very real sense, this is the same experience we have when we share the bread and wine, we are thanking Him for the incredible blessing we have received; we are in His presence, literally; we receive continued blessing from Him.
Lord, we desire to be in Your presense, and we claim the promise of Psalm 100:4 that we can open the door with thanksgiving and enter into Your presence with praise.
(NIV)1 Corinthians 10:16-17
Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? [17] Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.
I had heard this phrase before, but it hadn't really struck me as it does this morning. The early church called the cup of wine, symbolizing Jesus' blood, the cup of thanksgiving. The NASB translates it the cup of blessing, which appears closer to the Greek. The Greek word is Eulogia, pronounced: yoo-log-ee'-ah
Definition
1. praise, laudation, panegyric: of Christ or God
2. fine discourse, polished language
3. an invocation of blessing, benediction
4. consecration
5. a (concrete) blessing, benefit
So in reality, its both outgoing and incoming. Outgoing praise, thanks and celebration for what has been accomplished. It is also blessing and continual benefit from God to those who participate. What an awesome deal, as we praise God and give thanks for what He has done, we in turn receive continued blessing.
I am reminded of Psalm 100:
(NIV)Psalm 100:1-5
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. [2] Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. [3] Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his ; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. [4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. [5] For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Specifically, verse four states that we enter into His gates and courts through thanksgiving and praise, in other words we enter into His presence, where we experience His love, goodness and faithfulness. In His presence we are blessed and touched and changed. So, in a very real sense, this is the same experience we have when we share the bread and wine, we are thanking Him for the incredible blessing we have received; we are in His presence, literally; we receive continued blessing from Him.
Lord, we desire to be in Your presense, and we claim the promise of Psalm 100:4 that we can open the door with thanksgiving and enter into Your presence with praise.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
A Beautiful Day
Its going to be a glorious day in KC. I m reminded of Psalm 96:
(NIV)Psalm 96:11-12
Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. [12] Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.
As I look around at the trees and earth during autumn, it always seems that there is joy all around with the beautiful color, and the golden grain, etc. It is a good day to give thanks to the Lord, letting our joy join in with creation. Lord, Your creation is simply astounding!
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Bringing Good News
This morning I am reading out Isaiah:
(NIV)Isaiah 52:5-12
“And now what do I have here?” declares the Lord. “For my people have been taken away for nothing, and those who rule them mock, ” declares the Lord. “And all day long my name is constantly blasphemed. [6] Therefore my people will know my name; therefore in that day they will know that it is I who foretold it. Yes, it is I.” [7] How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” [8] Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the Lord returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes. [9] Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. [10] The Lord will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God. [11] Depart, depart, go out from there! Touch no unclean thing! Come out from it and be pure, you who carry the articles of the Lord’s house. [12] But you will not leave in haste or go in flight; for the Lord will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.
verse 7, is a great verse, talking about the one who brings good news, who proclaim peace, good tidings and salvation. Those four things have got to be the most welcomed messages. Where there hasn't been anything good for so long, suddenly good news. Where the has been conflict and was, the message of peace, where there has been only bad tidings, the message of a change in the tide. Finally for those who are trapped, who are captured, who have no hope for rescue, suddenly the news that they will be saved. This is in deed a great message of hope, that God will move, the He will intervene, and He will comfort His people (us)!
If you are in need of good news, look to God! He is the source of all good things, including news.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Mysteries Revealed
(NIV)1 Corinthians 2:6-10
We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. [7] No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. [8] None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. [9] However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”---the things God has prepared for those who love him--- [10] these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.
I really like this verse from Paul. In keeping with yesterday's theme of the secrets or mystery of the Kingdom, Paul is explaining how one of them was the salvation of the world, Jews and Gentiles. Up until Peter's experience with the Centurian's household, and his earlier vision, no one had figured out that salvation also included the gentiles. Scripture is quite clear in the old testament, about the fact that there will be an expansion of God's blessing over the whole world, but I think that the Jewish people didn't understand that meant they would be grafted in and equal members in the Kingdom with them.
Apparently the enemy and those in power really didn't understand the whole deal either. The translated phrase 'rulers of this age' could be better translated rulers, authorities and princes in power during this period of time within the universe. This does not just mean civil authorities, but can also encompasses the spiritual realm as well. So expanding that, the local Jewish authorities didn't understand it, the regional Roman authoirites didn't understand it, and the spirits in authority over the region didn't understand it either, if any had fully grasped the full truth of what God was really doing they would have done anything they could to stop its fulfillment. That appears to be what Paul is saying, not so much that they didn't recognize that Jesus was the Lord of Glory, but that if this amazing plan of God was realized it would bring about the destruction, or defeat of that which kept them in power. Pastor Bill Johnson says that if satan would have figured out what God was going to accomplish through the crucifiction, he would have killed anyone that was tying to crucify Jesus.
Finally, I like the way the verse 9 ends - the things God has prepared for those who love Him. This phrase has a promise of continual revelation and new things being revealed from the heart of God, because of His love for us. God is the creator, and continues to create, even now, and apparently He is finished with His surprises. Amen, Lord, bring it on!
Friday, October 5, 2012
Secrets of the Kingdom and Bearing Much Fruit
I was reading from Mark 4 this morning, which starts with the parble of the sower and the seed. These two verses caught my eye.
(NIV)Mark 4:10-11
"When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables. [11] He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables..."
Interesting that Jesus compares speaking in parables to receiving the secret of the Kingdom. The KJV says it this way, which is apparently closer to the original Greek.
(KJV)Mark 4:11
And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:
The Greek word translated secret or mystery is the word Musterion from a derivative of muo (to shut the mouth)
Transliterated Word : Musterion pronounced: moos-tay'-ree-on
Definition
1. hidden thing, secret, mystery a. generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b. a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c. a hidden purpose or counsel 1. secret will 1c d. of men 1c e. of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly
2. in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense a. of an OT saying b. of an image or form seen in a vision c. of a dream
So Jesus is saying to the Apostles and others, that the secret or mystery of the Kingdom, which they have received is related to the revelation and understanding they receive through their relationship with Him, and their listening to Him speak. As clear as it is to us now, we don't fully grasp the way this story would have caused the people to wonder about the meaning. The apostles and others around Jesus don't understand either, but because they have a relationship with Him, they are able ask Him and receive understanding. Taking it one step further, it seems to me that the clear secret of the Kingdom is relationship with Jesus.
Finally the parable is explained by Jesus, and the key points are that in the Kingdom we are to listen and hear, accept the word and change (repent - change the way we think), and bear fruit because of it. In other words, hear and obey.
Hearing means that we need to be open to His Word, which He is clearly making available all around. He says the seed is sown to every type of soil. He is not going to make His Word only available to the 'good' soil, but to everyone.
Obedience is clearly one of the fruits of a right relationship with Him. He is the Lord, and our obedience to His Word is one of the ways we show we are relating to Him as our Lord. Because of His love for us, our obedience allows us to fulfill the destiny for which we were created. This fulfillment, and understanding our purpose are keys benefits to our own intrnal well-being. Obedience also has the benefit of bearing fruit, or in this case grain or food, for others as well as ourselves. As Jesus said - 30, 60, even 100 times what was sown.
As I was reading this, I wondered how many kernels of wheat are on a standard wheat stalk - the answer is 50. So Jesus example is talking about real abundance, producing in cases twice what would be normal. Its interesting to note that the earlier a winter wheat seed germinates, the more likely it is to produce more heads of grain. Winter wheat can produce up to 5 heads of 22 kernels. In this case, its because the one seed, produces one plant, which then spawns additional plants, called tillers, each which can grow a head of wheat. In some cases one kernel of wheat can produce 700 kernels of wheat during the next harvest, so there levels of fruitfulness beyond what Jesus described. One should note that these are likely related to the advances in the science of genetics. Regardless, it is good to get a perspective of the plans of the Lord for our lives of obedience, that we would bear fruit abundantly. Also, this fruitfulness is just considering one season of planting, and if multiplied by several seasons this could result in crazy amounts of fruitfulness - two seasons of one kernel producing 700 kernels would equal 490,000 kernels. 3 seasons would equal 343,000,000 kernels.
Lord, help us to be fruitful in our lives.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
A New Heart and Spirit
This morning I have been meditating on my inability to follow the ways of the Lord. I am so often unable or unwilling to do those things that I know I should be doing. As i was thinking about this and praying, the Lord reminded me of a couple of passages.
(NIV)Jeremiah 31:31, 33
“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. [33] “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
Lord, thank You for this promise. I pray that You will write Your law on my heart, and put it in my mind.
(NIV)Ezekiel 36:24-30
“ ‘For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. [25] I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. [26] I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. [28] Then you will live in the land I gave your ancestors; you will be my people, and I will be your God. [29] I will save you from all your uncleanness. I will call for the grain and make it plentiful and will not bring famine upon you. [30] I will increase the fruit of the trees and the crops of the field, so that you will no longer suffer disgrace among the nations because of famine.
Yes, Lord, I ask for this new heart and a new spirit in me! That I might follow You completely. That You would put Your Spirit in me and move on me to help me walk out Your perfect will for me! I want to glorify Your name with my life!
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Fresh Revelation
This morning I was reading out of Proverbs:
(NIV)Proverbs 29:18
Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.
We must have continued revelation in our lives, for without the active word of God in our lives, we do lose our sense of its applicability. It becomes like an old book, of old rules that don't apply to us.
We must continually feed on the Word, daily seeking the Lord's revelation. Paul writes in His letter to Timothy: (NIV)1 Timothy 4:13 "Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching." On the other side of this command to Timothy would be the role of most of us people, namely to be listening to the Word, reading it daily, listening to teachers and preachers, pursuing God's revelation for our lives.
Amen Lord! May we never tire of pursuing Your fresh revelation.
(NIV)Proverbs 29:18
Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.
We must have continued revelation in our lives, for without the active word of God in our lives, we do lose our sense of its applicability. It becomes like an old book, of old rules that don't apply to us.
We must continually feed on the Word, daily seeking the Lord's revelation. Paul writes in His letter to Timothy: (NIV)1 Timothy 4:13 "Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching." On the other side of this command to Timothy would be the role of most of us people, namely to be listening to the Word, reading it daily, listening to teachers and preachers, pursuing God's revelation for our lives.
Amen Lord! May we never tire of pursuing Your fresh revelation.
Monday, October 1, 2012
The World And All That Is In It...
(NIV)Psalm 50:10-15
...for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. [11] I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine. [12] If I were hungry I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it. [13] Do I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats? [14] “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, [15] and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”
I just love the last half of verse 12 - ..."for the world is mine, and all that is in it!" There is such assurance in that statement. Everything in this world is His. As co-heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17), His adopted children who cry "Abba, Father" (Rom 8:15), we have access to this great treasure. This is not for our enjoyment and use only, but to bring Him glory.
In Genesis, God's original plan for man and woman is outlined in the first chapter: (NIV)Genesis 1:27-28
So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. [28] God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground. ”
There is in this statement, an authority and rule over everything on the earth given to man. When man fell, he transferred that authority and rule over to the enemy. When Jesus came and died on the cross and was resurrected, authority over everything was restored to Him (Eph 1:20-22) Now through Him, we are being restored to the role God originally gave man. This is only accomplished through Jesus and the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit, as Paul clearly writes in Romans. The restoration to right order is part of the culmination of God's purpose for the earth.
(NIV)Romans 8:19-21
For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. [20] For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope [21] that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.
I know I don't grasp the reality of this all, but it certainly grabs my attention and imagination. What would this earth be like if it was freed from its bondage to decay, and brought into freedom and glory? The first thing that enters my mind is the garden of Eden. Wow!
Lord, let us walk in Thanksgiving and in proper relationship with You, experiencing the fullness of all You desire to give us, for Your glory! We pray that rather than using and abusing creation for our own purposes, we step into our proper role as Your sons and daughters, through Christ. Help us to start in the place of thanksgiving, and deeper relationship with You.
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