Sprinkled and Washed

Lately, I have been reflecting on a few different verses and I  was returned to the following verses for today - Hebrews 10:19-25 NIV:

[19] “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, [20] by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, [21] and since we have a great priest over the house of God, [22] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. [23] Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. [24] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, [25] not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

What a great encouraging passage!  The author reminds us of these great truths, and then encourages us to draw near to God and to press into the Body of Christ, encouraging our love and good deeds towards one another!

Personally, I do feel encouragement to engage in our fellowship group, in our church and into the friendships and family relations we have been graced with in our lives.  However, it is all on the foundation of our faith that this is most filled with life and meaning.  We are invited into eternal life, a life of knowing God, through the sacrifice of Jesus, making a way for us to be restored to relationship!  

I am fully aware of the cleansing grace the Lord releases to us, and how His sacrifice has been applied to our lives, and is available to empower and wash us clean!  Of late, I have definitely seen this grace in action, this empowerment to cleanse my life, my mind, my thoughts, my actions.  The language of verse 22 above is one of something (cleansing and washing) that has already been done, and does not need to be done again!

This is truly one of the mysteries of God’s grace that His actions have perfectly cleansed us, already, and that when confessed and repented of, that past payment and cleansing has already been applied. Our whole lives have essentially been painted with grace, mercy, compassion and love from the point of Christ’s Glorious payment forward through the end of our lives!  There is a fount of living cleansing water that erupted at the Cross that is available for the washing of  everything in the future, and in the past.  

Our lives should be filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this clear gift,this unearned gifting and cleansing!  What a miraculous opportunity we have to live our lives in union with God, who has made the perfect way for us to step into a relationship with Him!  We do have the full assurance of our faith, that not only is this possible, it is true!

Thank You Lord for Your amazing, life-giving, cleansing, and loving gift!

Amen and Amen!

Resisting False Comfort

Recently the focus of my prayer and my daily walk has been on allowing the Lord to be my comforter. I shared a bit called “The God of All Comfort” and this morning I am adding a few practical thoughts, and helpful things the Lord has shown me. 

Here is a link to that Blog Entry: https://amomentwithgod-srh.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-god-of-all-comfort.html

This morning I am looking at ways I can resist turning to other things for comfort. In scripture, we are told there are three main things we battle - the world, the flesh and the evil one. (See 1 John 2:15-17, Eph 6:12 for scriptural basis).  In my life they all seem to swirl together, but are definitely something I am aware of in my life.  The way I experience them is in the form of unhealthy appetites, and by that I mean desires that take me out of the will of the Lord, and healthy appetites.  These are held up as comforts, but they are offering false comfort.  One could say that I see the need to resist these false comforts!

For example, we all need to eat, and hunger is part of God’s creation of our bodies, to help us know when we need to eat, to provide fuel for our bodies.  I have normal hunger, and I also have self-focused hunger, where I want specific things, even though I know they are unhealthy for me. I am trying to fill something other than my natural appetite.  In my case it is abundant carbohydrates, specifically sweets.  I have a terrible “sweet tooth”.  

Medically speaking, my body had a tendency towards very high cholesterol, and eating carbs increases my cholesterol in my body significantly. This was discovered about 30 years ago when I weighed 20lbs less, and had an overall Cholesterol count over 400 and a triglyceride count 10x higher than normal.  With numbers like those I was likely going to have some arterial blockage or heart attack, but from the outside I looked healthy.  (If you want to read more about the body chemistry stuff I suggest reading  “Protein Power” By Dr. Michael R Eades).

The solution to my internal body chemistry problems has proven to be limiting my carb intake, especially sweets.  

I don’t like this solution!  I want to eat sweets and other carbs, especially breads, pastry, cake, pie and candy!  

This is my flesh talking.

For a few years I did pretty well, but then started eating more carbs, even rewarding myself (Comforting) with sweets for certain goals.  As I ate more, I found I wanted more, and of course I ate more.  One day the Lord stopped me and said something like, “you know the enemy is trying to get you to take yourself out by eating things that will cause you to have a heart attack and die!”

That stopped me in my tracks!

It had never occurred to me that the enemy would use such sly tactics  in his attack on me.  As I started paying attention to my thoughts more, I noticed that indeed it seemed like thoughts of certain desires would just pop into my head.  Sometimes they would be triggered by ads on TV, but other times, I noticed they were more related to being bored, or one could say feeling an emptiness inside, and I was trying to ease that,or comfort myself. 

For years since, I have worked to resist those urges, those thoughts, and just telling myself no.  At times I do better than others, but it is a constant “battle”.  

Lately the Lord, specifically the Holy Spirit,  has provided me a better tool in resisting those thoughts and appetites. Lately He has had me speaking the truth of where those actions (eating what I shouldn’t) will lead.  

When I am hungry, when I realize that I am having thoughts or urges to eat sweets, I say to myself, “Eating that will result ultimately in my death.  It won’t be right away, but I will gain weight, I will get unhealthy and then I will have a heart attack!”

Amazingly, the appetite or urge goes away almost immediately!

I have found this technique works equally well with my other appetites.  Speaking the truth, in contrast to the false pleasure or filling my hollow place that these appetites hold up, has helped me immensely in resisting the urge to turn to other things for comfort

In his letter to all believers, James gives us some really good advice found in James 4:7-8a NIV:

[7] “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you.”

I find that when I resist, the urge, the appetite and the thoughts all disappear quickly.  This leads me to believe that the enemy is indeed using these to attack me and try to get me to take myself out, however he can!

In summary, I have recently found great help in identifying those areas that are out of line with God’s plans and purposes, and healthy appetites, and started speaking truth to myself, rather than just trying to say no or resist.  Speaking the truth, seems to give me much more to hold onto, and strengthens my will and self-control.

My prayer is that this is helpful to you in your efforts to follow the Lord, and make Him the God of all comfort in your life!

Amen and Amen!

A Different Take on The Seed and Soil

This morning while walking my dog in our local park, I was praying and asking the Lord to forgive areas in my life that are not aligned with Him, specifically areas that have always been a bit of a struggle for me.  As I prayed that prayer, I saw a picture of someone digging up a whole area of their yard and bringing in new soil.  I was immediately reminded of the verses about the sower, the seed and the soil.  

Here are the verses and the explanation as found in the Gospel of Matthew 13:3-9,18-23 NIV:

[3] “Then he [Jesus] told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. [4] As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. [5] Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. [6] But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. [7] Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. [8] Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. [9] Whoever has ears, let them hear.” 

[18] “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: [19] When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. [20] The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. [21] But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. [22] The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. [23] But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

So often when I have read these verses before, I always understood that Jesus was talking about different people and their responses to the Gospel of the Kingdom, and I do believe that is true.  However, this morning I saw that it could also be applied to different areas of my life!  There are areas of my life where I bear good fruit, and then there are areas where I am less fruitful, areas where regularly my attention and focus gets distracted, areas where I have been trying to change for years and seen little progress, and probably areas where God’s Word has yet to penetrate.  That really changes my reading of this parable, as I always thought because I was bearing fruit in areas, I was good soil. 

Today, I felt the gentle encouragement of the Lord to take a closer look at my life, and take a real inventory of the type of soil I have in specific areas. I have never thought this way before, and while challenging, I think the encouragement is very helpful.  

In my yard, when I wanted to create a garden, I dug up that area of the yard, brought in new soil and fertilizer.  I can do similar things in my life.  I can choose to dig up sections, to turn them over, to reveal that which is under the surface.  I can find a trusted friend or two to reveal the depths of my soil, areas where I have been unfruitful, areas where I have let the worldly mindset trample and harden!  I can confess my findings to the Lord, (He knows them anyway) and ask for His help in turning over and cleaning my life. 

Sometimes He will use the refuse of my past, now turned to compost, to renew my present life, bearing fruit for others to see.  What was brokenness and sinful, when revealed and subjected to the Word, broken down into humility, can now help others and bear fruit for His Glory. 

This morning I am encouraged to pray for the Lord’s revelation to show me what areas in my life need to be renewed, weeded, roto-tilled, fertilized and watered.  I am confident that He is about a work in my life to enable me to bear more fruit!  Thank you Lord for Your active word, and Your direction and guidance!  I do want to bear good fruit in every area of my life!

Ameen and Amen!

The God of ALL Comfort

Tuesday night as I was praying the Lord dropped into my mind the theme of comfort, and how we (especially in the western world) turn to other things than Him for comfort.  I was reminded of a couple of verses.  First to set the foundation - He is the God of all Comfort!  Here is the scriptural reference from Paul’s second letter to Corinth - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV:

[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” 

The word comfort here is the original Greek word paraklēsis  which has several meanings, all of which are helpful.  However today we are focusing on the following two uses and definitions: 

1) exhortation, admonition, encouragement

2) consolation, comfort, solace; that which affords comfort or refreshment

Clearly the translators are focused on the second use here.  We know that the Holy Spirit is called the Paraclete, our helper and encourager, and should also be understood that He is our comforter.

The other verses that were called to mind were verses that had to do with appetites - one in the old testament and one in the new.  Here are the reference scriptures: 

Numbers 11:4-6 NIV:

[4] “The rabble with them began to crave other food, and again the Israelites started wailing and said, “If only we had meat to eat! [5] We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic. [6] But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!”

And - 

Philippians 3:18-19 NIV:

[18] “For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. [19] Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.”

The Greek word translated stomach is the word Koilia and it means “hollow” and can be translated stomach, appetites, belly, even our inner-most being. The point appears to apply to those who are trying to fill an emptiness.  In the verses from numbers, their focus on food was such that they were forgetting they were slaves in Egypt, and living under a terrible burden.

The point of these two verses is not that food or hunger is bad, but rather there is a reality where we can place more importance on filling ourselves with other things (food is one example) rather than the Lord!.  Paul writes that there are those who are living this way are making this pursuit a god in their life.  If something is our god, it means we are in some ways worshipping that other thing.

In our modern world we are obsessed with our comfort!  We can exist in such a way that we could never have to leave our homes, nor expose ourselves to any hardship.  The ads and marketing speak of our comfort, of having things the way we want, of fulfilling our hunger and desires.  Our homes are built around comfort, our furniture, and appliances are focused on convenience and comfort!  We are surrounded by a cacophony of voices telling us we can sate our hunger and emptiness with things. 

In my quick thoughts on this subject, I came up with a list of things we turn to for comfort:

1. Food (Comfort food is an actual phrase)
2. Clothes and other personal items
3. Houses (settling into our comfy place)
4. TV Shows and media (do we call our favorites “my show” or find ourselves binge watching shows?)
5. Drugs and alcohol (mood altering is one way of finding or inducing comfort)
6. Sexual attraction (something that makes us feel enlivened or wanted)

The point here is that none of these things are bad on their own.  In fact, one could argue they are all part of God’s creation and our creative abilities which are gifts from the Lord.  However, if we find ourselves turning to them instead of the Lord when we need comfort or are feeling empty, then this might be something we need to look at in our lives!

God is the God of All Comfort.

One wonders if we really believe that?

Can He fill our emptiness?

Can He meet our needs?

I can think of several verses that provide God’s perspective on these questions, here are just a few:

Matthew 6:25-33 NIV: 

Jesus speaking here [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? [26] Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? [27] Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 

[28] “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. [29] Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. [30] If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

And - 

1 Timothy 6:17 NIV:

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”

And - 

Matthew 11:28-30 NIV:

[28] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

And - 

Philippians 4:19 NIV:

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

In summary, God does provide, does care about our needs, our comfort, and our lives!  He is the God of All Comfort, and He will meet us in our need!  If we find ourselves constantly turning to other things, then we might need to change the way we are thinking and ask for His help to turn to Him, instead of these other “gods”!

Lord help us!

Amen!

Could He, Would He, Is He?

I was just thinking about a ministry event we had last night and some of the prayers, and ideas of how the Lord might move, and I heard myself asking, “Could He, Would He, and is He”?   This seems to be a good review of my faith position, getting His perspective, and finding where I need to get to, so that I can join what he is doing!

I hope that make sense.  I like simple phrases that help direct my reflections.

Could He?

We find scripture loaded with the many things Jesus did from walking on water, to feeding 5000, to healing a man born blind, to raising Lazarus.  In the Old testament we see God rescuing the Israelites from the Egyptian army by opening the sea, we find people raised from the dead, walls collapsing around Jericho, the sun standing still, etc.  Suffice it to say that God can do whatever He wants. Jesus said in Mark 10:27 NIV: “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” 

Would He?

This is a bit more subjective, in that it is not so much a question of ability but rather intent.

I am reminded of one of the stories found in Matthew 8:1-3 NIV:

[1] “When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. [2] A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” 

[3] Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.”

I was also reminded of several times that we find Jesus’ motivation listed as compassion,  Here a few examples:

Matthew 14:14 NIV

When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.

Matthew 20:34 NIV

Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.

Matthew 15:32 NIV

Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.”

As a simple test, we can tell that if the Lord’s compassion is evident or growing in us, that He is planning to move, and the answer is yes!  He would feed the 5000, heal the blind men, or heal the man with leprosy.

There are many times that Jesus’ motivation to heal or work a miracle is not mentioned.  However we find no case in scripture where He turned someone away that came to Him for healing, however we know that not every sick person mentioned in the New Testament got healed.  Jesus walked into an area full of sick people by the Pool of Bethesda and healed the one man (See John 5) so we do need to ask the question!  It is my conviction that almost  always the answer will be yes, He would, for He loves HIs people, desires them to know His love, and He is the God who heals!

Is He?

This is the most important question, for this is a present tense question.  What is He doing right now?  The first two questions have to do with faith and expectation, this question has to do with the right now!  

Using the pool of Bethesda as an example, We know God is a Healer and can heal people paralyzed.  We know that when people brought Him someone who was paralyzed, that He healed them (See Mark 2:1-12).  

In this case Jesus walks into the room of sick people and just engages the one man. Our previous two questions would assume that if Jesus walked into the pool area, He would have healed all of them, and yet we have a very clear story of His just healing the one man!  IN this illustration, the answer to our third question is that Jesus is just healing him.

I think we can draw a few principles that are helpful:

If Jesus moved to someplace He was going to do works in that place, as He had been sent there by the Father.  John 6:38 NIV: “For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.”

If Jesus is touching someone He intends to do a work in them.  No one that encountered Jesus went away unchanged.  Sometimes the change is not evident externally at first, but the fruit will be evident.

If Jesus points out someone specifically, He is likely going to move.  In Mark 5:1-5, Jesus encounters a man with a shriveled hand, and while there is much going in that story, He calls the man to stand-up.  I am not sure the man knew He was going to be healed, but I am sure the apostles expected it!

Thus, when we are asking Is He?  We should be looking around, looking for people that the Lord is moving on, touching individually or highlighting to us.  In all three of these cases, He IS clearly working, and that’s a a good place to be!  

I am reminded of something Jesus said in the Gospel of John 4:34-35 NIV:

[34] “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. [35] Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”

Yes Lord, help us to open our eyes and look, for there are many that need Your touch!  Help us to see what You see, to do what You would do, and join ourselves to What the Father is doing that we might finish Your work!

Amen and Amen!

Choosing Enmity?

Verses for this morning from James 4:4-8 NIV:

[4] “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. [5] Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us? [6] But he gives us more grace. 

That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 

[7] Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

Verse 4 is a rough verse to understand, for the extreme words are quite literally what James writes.  Our potential friendship (philios) with the world puts us in conflict with God. 

How are we supposed to live in this world then?

The word that gives us the key is “chooses”.  As this is not something that just happens, or the fruit of our learning to live in this world, but rather a willing deliberate purpose and plan.  The Greek word is boulomai.

Taking this word and definition a bit further, this is not Christian individual who is trying to live at peace with those around them, rather this is the one who schemes and plans, to embrace the things of the world that are in contrast to the ways of God, giving their heart and mind to such endeavors.  This is the individual who is making a conscious choice to embrace fully the ways of this world, knowing that they are turning their back on the Lord, in doing so.

Going back to the start of verse 4, James use the term “adulterous people” and while a shocking term, it does help define those He is addressing.  No one is an accidental adulterer or adulteress.  This may not be what someone planned to do initially, but they have made a definite choice at some point, and this is what James is pointing out. James is writing to the Church, to the Bride of Christ, so the term is applicable.

I would guess that there could be a fair number of church-goers that could identify themselves in this situation, where church is just an obligation, or a club membership that has not real impact on their real life, and choices.  They go to church to keep someone happy, or to keep up appearances, but their hearts and minds are far from Christian, and they have no plans to change. There were people like this in Jame’s day and there are people like this today. 

The important point for us today is to look at our motivation, at our choices in our lives.  God, in His grace, provides the opportunity and invitation for us to allow His Word to pierce our situation, and open our eyes and to embrace change (repentance).  James lays out the invitation in the following verses, encouraging us to submit ourselves to God, to resist the enemy, the spirit and ways of this world, and to come near to God. 

My encouragement today is to take stock of my day, my thoughts, my plans, my life choices, and to make sure that they are all leading me closer to God.  I know that my life here matters, and that my heart (motivations) is what the Lord examines.  I am grateful that He has made a way for me to be in relationship with Him, and He gives me guidance and help. I also know that if there are areas or choices I have made that are counter to God’s ways, that I have the opportunity to change.  The whole point of this word from James is to provide an opportunity to do so, not to announce impending judgment.

I know I am not perfect in my pursuit of Him, nor do I always have right motivations. I am so grateful that He is a loving God who has compassion, mercy, grace and forgiveness towards me.

Today, I am encouraged to choose to draw near to God, that He might draw near to me!

Amen and Amen!

JAILBREAK!

Last night as I was laying down to sleep I was reflecting and praying briefly for the upcoming Healing Through Encounter evening we are having at our church and I heard the word “Jailbreak”.  I immediately thought of Paul and Silas and their being released from the shackles as they were praising God (Acts 16).  This morning as I thought back over that word I was reminded of Peter’s miraculous release (Acts 12) and had an interesting thought.  This morning I am going to spend some time reflecting on each story, starting with Peter’s.

Acts 12:5-12 NIV:

[5] “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. 

[6] The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. [7] Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. 

[8] Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. [9] Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. [10] They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 

[11] Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.” 

[12] When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.”

Suffice it to say that Peter was in a very difficult situation, and the plan was for his death. He was chained and doubly guarded and locked deep in the dungeon, and chained to two guards. The prayers of the Church were rising to heaven and the Lord, as only He can do, stepped in and freed him so perfectly it seemed like a dream to Peter!  It was so miraculous that even the church couldn’t believe it had happened!   

It seems to me the Lord is saying it doesn’t matter how shackled or burdened or in the clutch of the enemy we are, He is able to set us free in an instant!

The second story is no less miraculous, found in Acts 16:22-31 NIV:

[22] “The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. [23] After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. [24] When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. 

[25] About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. [26] Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. [27] The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. [28] But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” 

[29] The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. [30] He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 

[31] They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.”

Wow! Again the Lord shows that He is capable of saving us from the most desperate of situations! This time Paul and Silas were praying and worshipping, at midnight, after they had Ben severely beaten, and their feet were in stocks!  

How many of us sing and worship God when we are in dire straits?

What is interesting to me is the immediate response of the jailer, the very one who had imprisoned Paul and Silas, after realizing they hadn’t escaped He immediately asked to be saved!

Suffice it to say that in both instances there was no earthly reason for hope.  But I can tell you that in both instances those in chains and the church were praying anyway, because they knew that with God all things are possible!  Jesus has all authority and all power and has broken the power and hold of sin and death, there is nothing He can’t do, and no place that we are shackled and imprisoned that He can’t set us free!

He is planning a jailbreak and He is inviting us to believe and pray for those that are imprisoned by the enemy!  In some cases that is us!

Let us pursue Him in earnest prayer, in worship, and believe that he is going to do miraculous works, so much so that whole household will receive salvation, and those that hear about it wil be astonished and filled with hope!  Those that are set free will be so transformed it will seem like a dream!!

With God all things are possible, even in the most hopeless of situations!  

Let us believe for freedom!  Freedom from sin, freedom from sickness, freedom from depression, freedom to the mentally afflicted, freedom for the addicted, freedom for the abused, freedom for those in any type of hopeless situation! 

Amen and Amen!

Discipline, Chastening and Love?

This morning I am reminded of a reflection from a few days back, looking at discipline, chastening and the original language.  I didn’t have a chance to finish that bit so will try this morning.  Here are the verses for this morning - Hebrews 12:4-11 NIV:

[4] “In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. [5] And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? 

It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, 

and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, 

[6] because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, 

and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” 

[7] Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? [8] If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. [9] Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! [10] They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. [11] No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

I know these are verses that certainly don’t sound like an encouragement, as indicated by the author of the Letter to the Hebrews, but I believe that is because we read into them our modern understanding of the English words.  The motivation of the Father is Agape Love (verse 6).  Thus, we must read the words disciplines and chastens from the point of that motivation.

One thing to note, verse 5 and 6 are a quotation of Proverbs 3: 11-12.  I decided to look at those verses and there we find a much “softer” original language translation.

Proverbs 3:11-12 NIV

[11] “My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, [12] because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”

Here we find the Hebrew translation for the word rebuke:

Strong's Definitions: מוּסָר mûwçâr, moo-sawr'; from H3256; properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint:—bond, chastening(-eth), chastisement, check, correction, discipline, doctrine, instruction, rebuke.

And Disciplines:

Strong's Definitions: יָכַח yâkach, yaw-kahh'; a primitive root; to be right (i.e. correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict:—appoint, argue, chasten, convince, correct(-ion), daysman, dispute, judge, maintain, plead, reason (together), rebuke, reprove(-r), surely, in any wise.

And finally love:

Strong's Definitions: אָהַב ʼâhab, aw-hab'; or אָהֵב ʼâhêb ; a primitive root; to have affection for (sexually or otherwise):—(be-) love(-d, -ly, -r), like, friend. 

As we look at these words, there is definitely a more positive perspective, especially if we look at the root motivation of love, or deep affection, as the Proverbs notes at the end of verse 12 for added context.  

This is not an angry father beating his child, flogging them because they have made a mistake or done wrong.  This is a father who absolutely delights in his child, bringing education, training and showing the child how to do it correctly, for their own good. The Father is intimately involved working with the child to show them the right way, helping them by way of His greater experience to understand.  

We must also note that this picture, the one of a father and son, is repeated and revealed by Jesus in His parable of the Prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), as well as in His description of the Father found in Matthew 6 & 7 during His sermon on the mount.  It is so important that we take into account the totality of the scriptural revelation when ascribing action and motivation to the Father.  

The Father is loving. 

John says God IS love (1 John 4:8).

This doesn’t mean that God doesn’t bring correction, but His motivation and methodology are consistent, for all of us.  We know that God hates sin, and without getting into some list of things, we must remember how He handles sin, as revealed through Jesus’ life!

In summary, God does help us and correct us, but He does so to help us walk the path He has for us, to help us fulfill our purpose, that which we were made to do.  We see the Father doing exactly this in the parable of the Prodigal son.  The Father welcomed the son back by running to him, embracing him and restoring him to his identity, and right purpose.  In this case, the Father didn’t have to rebuke or correct because the son had come to his senses.  In our life we should be grateful that the Lord brings correction and training on the front side, so that we don’t walk through a terrible season of separation from Him.

This morning I am actually encouraged that the Father does love me, and I see that in His correction, direction, guidance and occasional rebuke.  He never deals with me in anger, but as a son He delights in, and for that I am so very grateful. 

Lord, I pray that You would help me to see, to lay down my pride so that I might be guided, directed, trained up in discipline, that I might fulfill all that tYou have for me to do!

Amen and Amen!

God's Promise vs. Logic

This morning I have been meditating on the life of Jeroboam, who was made King by the Lord over the 10 tribes.  Here are the verses that summarize that calling and appointing - 1 Kings 11:29-31,37-39 NIV:

[29] “About that time Jeroboam was going out of Jerusalem, and Ahijah the prophet of Shiloh met him on the way, wearing a new cloak. The two of them were alone out in the country, [30] and Ahijah took hold of the new cloak he was wearing and tore it into twelve pieces. [31] Then he said to Jeroboam, “Take ten pieces for yourself, for this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘See, I am going to tear the kingdom out of Solomon’s hand and give you ten tribes.” 

[37] “However, as for you, I will take you, and you will rule over all that your heart desires; you will be king over Israel. [38] If you do whatever I command you and walk in obedience to me and do what is right in my eyes by obeying my decrees and commands, as David my servant did, I will be with you. I will build you a dynasty as enduring as the one I built for David and will give Israel to you. [39] I will humble David’s descendants because of this, but not forever.’ ”

The sad thing is that Jeroboam had the Lord’s blessing and protection, and he quickly abandoned the “Word of the Lord” for logic, even though exactly what the Lord had said came to pass.  

Continuing his story in 1 Kings 12, we see how quickly he abandoned the promise of God.  Here are a few verses of the larger story - 1 Kings 12:20,25-30 NIV:

[20 “When all the Israelites heard that Jeroboam had returned, they sent and called him to the assembly and made him king over all Israel. Only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the house of David.” 

[25] Then Jeroboam fortified Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim and lived there. From there he went out and built up Peniel. [26] Jeroboam thought to himself, “The kingdom will now likely revert to the house of David. [27] If these people go up to offer sacrifices at the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem, they will again give their allegiance to their lord, Rehoboam king of Judah. They will kill me and return to King Rehoboam.”

[28] “After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves. He said to the people, “It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” [29] One he set up in Bethel, and the other in Dan. [30] And this thing became a sin; the people came to worship the one at Bethel and went as far as Dan to worship the other.”

I find it interesting that his advisors go back to the “golden calves” which was the very sin of the people under Moses (see Exodus 32:2-4).  The words he uses are almost identical.  

Regardless of the parallels, we see the pattern, God blessed, fulfills the promise,and then the man doubts, that the Lord will continue to fulfill His promise, and starts thinking logically, and seeking advice from other logical thinkers.  The issue is that God’s promises are not always logical, and require faith not logic to follow, and believe.  God demonstrated this over and over in their past, and yet they just quickly abandon all such understanding. 

This makes me think about the times I have abandoned God’s ways, for something that makes better sense to me.  The way the Lord described this to me, was that I was making an Ishmael instead of trusting in God’s promise (See Gen. 15 & 16). The Lord's call will often include promises that do not seem possible, practical, or logical.  We must be very careful in our thinking, and even advice seeking, to make sure that we are giving the proper place to the promise of the Lord, His word released into a situation.  

I know there have been times where I really wrestled with the Promise of the Lord, and how it seemed the exact opposite was occurring. These times are surely times of testing, and are opportunities for us to press into God even more, rather than relying on our own thoughts, logic, or even advice.

Oh Lord, help us to really trust You! Help us to believe your word, knowing that in the proper time it will be perfectly fulfilled.  Help us to trust not only Your word, but also Your timing! Help us to trust, to hold on, and to reject advice that says we should take matters into our own hands!

Thank You Lord for Your encouragement today!

Amen!

Fan Into Flame Again!

Verses for today - 2 Timothy 1:6-12 NIV:

[6] “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. [7] For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. [8] So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. [9] He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, [10] but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. [11] And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. [12] That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.”

What a great charge and encouragement Paul gives to Timothy. I get the impression that maybe Timothy had eased up a bit in his running the race of faith.  Paul, doesn’t berate him, but encourages him to fan back into flame the gift(s) of God that he had already received.  

I do believe that any gifts that were have received are still there, though there are seasons of greater fruitfulness, and expression and growth in other gifts as well.  In our family we always bless the birthday person with gifts, but we don’t ask for old gifts back.  Sometimes the enemy convinces us that gifts or callings are just for a season, and somehow our lack of zeal or even sinfulness have caused these gifts to be removed.

All we need to do is look at the examples of great people of faith whose sinful lifestyles have been exposed to know that God’s gifts and anointings do not get removed if we sin.  Many of these individuals had powerful ministries right up until their sin was exposed.  I am not applauding the sin, but rather the mercy and grace of God in giving the gift with a no-repossession clause.  When He gives us gifts they are ours.  Whether we use them or walk in them is up to us.

So the question this morning is what gifts have I been given that I need to fan back into flame?  What gifts have I received that I have stopped believing I have access to?  What things has the Lord put in me for His own purpose, through His grace?  

Clearly I have not done anything to earn any gifts, yet He, in His infinite wisdom, has given them to me for a purpose!  He is patient and loving, merciful and compassionate, and expects me to have seasons of greater fruitfulness and passion, for He knows what my life is like. He has walked among us, has lived a life on earth and understands fully what we encounter, and struggle against. 

This morning I am encouraged to look at my life, to remember the things the Lord has gifted to me, and to believe that everything he has given me, is still mine to walk in and enjoy.  His purpose is intact, His plans are perfect!  I just need to step in, to dust-off, to re-believe, and receive His empowering through the Holy Spirit.

Amen and Amen! 

A Different Type of Suffering

Lately I have been reflecting on bringing Glory to the Lord in my every day job and life.  Sometimes I feel like what I do doesn’t really matter in the Kingdom, but that is the result of a task mind-set rather than a Kingdom mind-set.  I ran across some interesting verses that are somewhat related to this idea, and led me down a reflection path I had not expected.  Here are the verses for today - 1 Peter 4:1-4,7-11 NIV:

[1] “Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. [2] As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. [3] For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. [4] They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. 

[7] The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 

[8] Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. [9] Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. [10] Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 

[11] If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”

The word that caught my eye is in verse 1, and it is used twice, once to describe Jesus’ passion and death, and secondly to describe our suffering in following Christ.  It is interesting that our suffering has more to do with the things we no longer do, at least that is what I think Peter is meaning in the following verses, than actual physical suffering like Christ Jesus.  

One could say that our suffering is related to our FOMO (fear of missing out), and denying ourselves and our appetites for such sinful and human desires.  This suffering is primarily internal, and while it might have some outward component (as described in verse 7) it is primarily an internal struggle and “suffering”. 

When I think about this in comparison to what Jesus suffered it is as nothing, and yet Peter, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, connects these two.  Could we say that Holy Spirit is essentially identifying a type of suffering that Jesus went through in His earthly life that we seldom consider?  Imagine living your life in such perfect awareness of what the Heavenly Father wanted you to do, yet also having the opportunity every day all day long to choose differently and yet never once choosing wrongly! It is one thing to be programmed to never do wrong, but for Jesus to enter fully into humanness, He needed to experience exactly what we experience. 

The Author Hebrews, stated it this way - Hebrews 4:14-16 NIV:

[14] “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. [15] For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. [16] Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Clearly Jesus endured temptation just like we encounter, yet He chose the right path every time.  He didn’t have some divine power to resist, that would have made Him not fully man (human).  He embraced this human life, took on everything we encounter and was victorious, a pure and spotless sacrifice.

Using my imagination I thought I would try to put this in more human perspective.  Jesus grew up in a family, had brothers and sisters, friends as well, and He couldn’t just go along with the crowd in any circumstance. He never once sinned towards one of His brothers or sisters.  He never once was disobedient to His parents!  He never once spoke an angry word, but He had every opportunity to do so.  He knew what He had to do, and did it correctly every time.  

When His brothers were doing something slightly wrong, He couldn’t “join the fun”.  Even when He wanted to talk back to His mom when she interrupted His personal time to ask Him to take out the trash, or whatever menial task, He didn’t utter a wrong word. He never cheated in a game, never cheated in school, never took something that wasn’t His, but He had the opportunity to do so, and was tempted to!  He didn’t have a terrible twos, or rebellious teen years.  He was always slightly different, slightly better and we know how those kids are treated, almost universally.

Now let me expand this imagination into His teens and twenties.  Jesus dealt with adolescence, raging hormones, emotions, and attractions.  He had family and friends, saw people marrying having kids, embracing life together, and yet He knew He must take a different path, and remain perfectly obedient to His heavenly Father. 

On top of all this, he knew who He was, what He was called to do, understood the Father’s heart for the people, and yet was restrained by the Father for 30 years.  He didn’t do any miracles, no healing, nothing out of the ordinary, except not sin.  He couldn’t say why He was different, couldn’t let it slip that He was the Messiah in their midst!  He probably couldn’t and wouldn’t defend Himself or His actions, He just did what the Father told Him to do.

I have thought much on related subjects but one thing is clear, Jesus' life was not easy.  He had to suffer all of the above, all of His life, never once taking a day off!  Never once just doing what He wanted to do!  I am sure He endured much, for human nature is mostly unchanged. 

The point of this all is that He showed us it could be done, and invites us to embrace a similar suffering in our following of Him.  Peter writes this invitation, calls us to live our lives for God.  Encourages us to love one another, to offer hospitality, to use what we have been given to bless those in our lives, those around us! He encourages us in all things to give glory to God, even in our suffering.  Finally the author of Hebrews reminds us that Jesus is absolutely approachable, for He endured the same temptations, the same suffering, and has compassion on us!  He knows He is the only sinless one!  He will extend mercy and grace!

Amen and Amen!

When God Intercedes For Us!

This morning I opened my Bible to where I left off reading in Romans 8, and rather than focusing on the verses I am most familiar with in that Chapter, my eyes were drawn to a few earlier verses, which are also quite well known, and often quoted.  Here are the verses I will be reflecting on today - Romans 8:26-28 NIV:

[26] “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. [27] And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” 

[28] “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

As often happens, it was the last verse that first caught my attention and then I read a bit before for context. In this case, verses 26 and 27 are important to understanding verse 28, for they speak of the unseen reality that is the foundation for verse 28, at least that is how I read it.

In verse 26 Paul is writing about our common situation, not really knowing what God’s will is for us, not knowing His full plans, His purpose, even at times His next steps.  We are unaware, but if we turn to Him for help, He does so, and He does so in Heavenly ways.  

I believe that Paul is writing about speaking in tongues in verse 26, but it could include other prayer expressions where no words are spoken, only the cries of our hearts and mind.  Regardless of how we define it, the point that the Holy Spirit helps us when we don’t know what to pray is the important point.  He knows what we should be praying and so He helps us.  Whether that is new words or new language, the point is that the Holy Spirit is helping us pray, even praying for us.

In my life, when I am stuck, or don’t have clarity I will seek the Lord!  I will pray, and wait, and pray and wait, oftentimes using my prayer language, other times just silently crying for help!  I believe that the Lord hears my prayers and responds, and that often times that response is being conducted in Heavenly places, which is what I think Paul is describing in verse 26 & 27.  

We don’t know what to pray but the Holy Spirit helps us, He knows the perfect will and intercedes (Prays for us) for us in accordance with that will.  He looks to the Father and the Son, and reads over us the next page of His perfect purpose and plan for us, and they all agree!  

At least that is how I see it playing out in my mind… 

That is a very reassuring image to me, for I know that God loves me, has paid the price to redeem me, has justified me, has given me His righteousness, and now He is praying for me His very will for me!  He is all in, for me!  He is for me!  He is in agreement that His will, purpose and plan are perfect, and when I don’t know what to pray, He takes over for me and helps me to pray.  

Now, to be clear, He doesn’t just do this for me, He does this for everyone who turns to Him, who is in relationship with Him, as Paul writes, all who love Him.

As Paul writes, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him!”  He is working for our good, working to make His plan and purpose perfect, even to the point of praying and interceding for  us!  He is not some passive God just watching and waiting, He is actively encouraging, helping, even praying for us!

Lord, I thank You for this encouragement this morning, for clearly I am in a place where I need guidance, direction and help from Heaven!  I thank You for interceding for me, for praying Your very will into my life!  

Thank You Lord! 

Seed, Soil and Seasons

This morning I was reminded of a theme that has come up 3 times in the last week or so, the parable of the seed and sower (See Matt 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8 for the different versions of the parable).  I have been reflecting on my life and the present season, and had been comparing my present life to years previous, and seeing a bit less fruit in my life these days.  

As I woke up the following thought went through my head,  “You need to have grace for different seasons in your life. There are seasons of planting, seasons of harvesting and not all seed produces fruit at the same time, or in the same way. You will not always bear the same type and amount of fruit, so give yourself grace.”

Those types of thoughts, while they are thoughts in my head, seem to originate outside of me.  In my many years of following the Lord, I believe He often speaks exactly this way, placing thoughts in my mind, especially at times that I am not distracted.  He doesn’t just do this in the early morning, but will speak to me this way throughout the day as I turn my attention to Him and listen.  

I believe the Lord wants a relationship with me, and for us to have a relationship we must be able to communicate.  Most of the time the Lord speaks to me through His scriptures, but quite often it will be through a still quiet voice speaking thoughts into my mind.

Enough of that - back to the theme of seeds, soil and fruitfulness.  I have reflected and written many times of these themes, and it is always good to revisit my previous writings.  This morning, the overall theme seemed related to seasons of less fruit, and helping me to be ok with that in my life. 

Any farmer or gardener will tell you that every seed takes time to grow into a plant, and takes time to produce its fruit.  Some produce fruit quickly, some take a whole season.  Some, like fruit trees, take multiple years to reach full fruitfulness. There is always a period of time between planting and harvesting, and that time is a season of growth, without fruit, or maybe immature fruit, like the tiny green grapes on the grape vine in my back yard.  I can see them, but they are not harvestable.

Sometimes we can look at our life, and compare our life to others, and see them bearing fruit, and think we are somehow not doing our part, or that we should be bearing more fruit. We can try to force ourselves to bear more fruit, we can work, and serve and read and everything else, and end up feeling frustrated and even discouraged.  We can try to harvest fruit before it is ripe and that usually results in sour fruit, or minimal nourishment.

In my own life, I have been working more hours than almost ever in my life, and my time and energy seem less than other seasons.  I have been reflecting on earlier periods where I was engaged in many things, and thinking I need to do more (which is always possible) and wondering about whether I am doing enough in the arena of my faith and my representation of the Lord.  I am so busy most days, I am able to pray in the morning, but then the rest of the day is work related, sometimes 12-14 hours.  

This morning the message seems to be, “that’s ok, I know the season you are in and I don’t expect you to be bearing much fruit!  You are doing what I asked You to do, in a job that I provided, and with a passion and effort that I would expect.”  

I need to give myself grace, not compare myself to others, not keep score in my head of my fruitfulness!  I need to trust the Lord, His process and His plans!  I need to give myself grace to do the best I can and know that He sees and understands!

One thing I know, the Lord is not a task-master.  He is relational, not task oriented.  He doesn’t keep score, He doesn’t compare us to others.  He treats each of us uniquely and individually!  He is perfect in His perspective of our life, better than us for sure!  

This morning, I am encouraged that the Lord sees us and understands us perfectly.  He knows His plans (we might have a faint glimmer of an idea of His plans) and He knows what type of seeds He is planting our lives and how long those seeds take to mature and bear fruit. He invites us to be good soil, to welcome what He is doing, and provide the life environment needed to produce good fruit, and that means regular water, sun, fertilizer, etc.  For me that means regular times of prayer, reflection, reading other Christian authors, talking with Christian friends, and regular repentance (recognizing where I need to change the way I think and act to be more like Him).

In the same way that He sees me, He sees everyone!  His message is always grace!  Grace is the gift of life from Him!  It is also coupled with compassion!  He knows us, knows our struggles, our thoughts, our weaknesses, and abilities and His perspective gives Him a perfect view of our life and His expectations are always perfectly in line with His perspective.  

We need to ask the Lord for this same perspective for our lives, as well as for other's lives. He doesn’t compare, neither should we.  He doesn’t have favorites (we are all His favorite).  He doesn’t expect us to produce the same abundance of fruit every day of our life, He understands seasons, planting, growing, soil and harvesting.

I reshared something earlier this week that  I wrote 10 years ago.  The basic theme was that  God doesn’t have a negative thought about us!  Oh that we would see and believe that!

In closing a few verses from Paul that are worth reflecting on - with the encouragement of this morning - Romans 8:28-29,31-34 NIV:

[28] “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” 

[31] “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? [32] He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? [33] Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. [34] Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”

Amen and Amen!

More & More

This morning I felt led to read from Paul’s first letter to the 1 Thessalonians 3:9-10,12-13 NIV:

[9] “How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? [10] Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.” 

[12] “May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. [13] May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.”

Continuing into Chapter 4 -1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 NIV:

[1] “As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. [2] For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.”

[3] “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; [4] that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, [5] not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God; [6] and that in this matter no one should wrong or take advantage of a brother or sister. The Lord will punish all those who commit such sins, as we told you and warned you before. [7] For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. [8] Therefore, anyone who rejects this instruction does not reject a human being but God, the very God who gives you his Holy Spirit.’ 

[9] “Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. [10] And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more, [11] and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, [12] so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”

Lately in our teachings at Church, we are learning, as we read Scripture, to look at parallels found in the language and words, as they are meant to draw our attention to sections and often have some relationship, one to the other.  This morning I have highlighted the phrase more and more.  

The Greek word used here is “mallon” and it is added to verbs and adjectives, it denotes increase, a greater quantity, a larger measure, a higher degree, more, more fully.  In the two sentences above the encouragement is to live to please God, and love one another more and more!

I am reminded of Jesus’ response when asked the about the greatest commandments, found in Mark 12:29-31 NIV:

[29] “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [30] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ [31] The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

Paul certainly is in line with the words of Jesus here. Sometimes we try to make our faith into the complex patterns of life, or demands, and Jesus just cuts through all that to simplify the core, as does Paul.  Love God, love people!  

We could take the approach of the Jewish Pharisees and ask hundreds of questions about what those words of Jesus actually mean, and define every last iteration and turn it into a massive list of what to do and what not to do.  For many of us that is the faith we have been taught, a long list of rules. 

The focus of these two commands is relationship, not rules. Paul encourages us to do both more and more!  Not focus on rules, but rather pour our efforts into relationship!  The only way to know what pleases God is to know Him! The only way to love our brothers and sisters more is to actually know them!  Such a simple path, without all the complicated requirements!  

If I am really loving someone, I am always trying to bless them, serve them, engage them, make them happy, do little things that mean much, meet them where they are, remove any conditions, and communicate!  I do all of these things from a place of relationship, not duty.  I could look at the things I do in my marriage as a duty, and I would probably learn to hate them, or I could look at them as expressions of my love for my wife, which causes me to love her more!  

Isn’t that interesting?  Operating in love, tends to lead us to loving more!  

Mallon!

The reason it leads to more, is that this love is then reciprocated by the one we love, at least that is the case in healthy relationships.  My expressions of love towards my wife, will often elicit expressions of love form her to me, not out of sense of duty, but out of love and gratitude, and desire for deeper relationship.  It is true of my relationship with my honey, and it is true of my relationship with the Lord!

This is supposed to be the path we are on in our Christian walk, loving God more and more, loving one another more and more! 

It is pretty simple, and my encouragement this morning is to make sure that this is my heart! 

Lord help me to love and please you, and recognize Your love for me!  Help me to love my brothers and sisters the way that You love me!  More and More!

Amen!