Explications of a Questioner

New location and title - check it out!

2011-07-17T21:13:00.000-05:00

Explications of a Questioner has a new title and new look!

Karen 4 You

I look forward to seeing you there! Come on over.

Karen

God Loves Us

2011-04-12T09:16:00.001-05:00

Psalm 136 (NLT)

The God of Heaven loves us!

His faithful love endures forever.

Authority

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!

Give thanks to the God of gods.

Give thanks to the Lord of lords.

Creator

Give thanks to him who alone does mighty miracles.

Give thanks to him who made the heavens so skillfully.

Give thanks to him who placed the earth among the waters.

Give thanks to him who made the heavenly lights--the sun to rule the day, and the moon and stars to rule the night.

Rescuer

Give thanks to him who killed the firstborn of Egypt. He brought Israel out of Egypt. He acted with a strong hand and powerful arm.

Give thanks to him who parted the Red Sea. He led Israel safely through, but he hurled Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea.

Give thanks to him who led his people through the wilderness.

Give thanks to him who struck down mighty kings. He killed powerful kings--Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan. God gave the land of these kings as an inheritance--a special possession to his servant Israel.

Personal love

He remembered us in our weakness.

He saved us from our enemies.

He gives food to every living thing.

Give thanks to the God of heaven.

His faithful love endures forever.

Sometimes You Have to Face the Lions

2011-01-07T09:17:00.003-06:00

Daniel 6:22-23 "My God sent his angel and shut the lions' mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm.” Then the king was exceedingly glad, and commanded that Daniel be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of harm was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.

Read the familiar story in Daniel 6.
God did not deliver Daniel from the lions' den, He delivered him in it. God's power was made known in Daniel's most frightening hour. No kind of harm was found on him after his trauma, because he had trusted in his God.

Daniel's trust in God was demonstrated by his obedience, being faithful to pray even when he knew it would put his life at risk. Wonder what he prayed? We know he prayed thanksgiving prayers, and he made petition and pleas before God.

Daniel 6:10-11 When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously. Then these men came by agreement and found Daniel making petition and plea before his God.

Don't you think he pleaded that God would rescue him from the lions? He knew God heard his prayers, but he didn't know how God would answer. He was able to trust in God, though, right into that horrible moment when the stone was rolled over the opening of the cave, bringing deep darkness to accompany the lions' roars.

And then an angel from God is there, right at that moment! And the lions have no power over Daniel!

Daniel's trust in God was built through obedience over time. It did not arise in a moment of desperation. He knew God, and God knew him. In the crisis, that's what made a difference.

Only Two Goals

2011-01-06T07:12:00.000-06:00

If you're having trouble finding meaning in life, it could mean you're pursuing the wrong things.

Proverbs 21:21 Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.

Righteousness - right with God, loving God
Kindness - right with people, loving people

When these are your two life goals, you will find everything else you need and desire.

How to Find Wisdom

2011-01-01T07:10:00.002-06:00

Proverbs 21:16 One who wanders [is wandering] from the way of good sense [sakal] will rest in the assembly of the dead.

. The way of good sense, understanding, wisdom [sakal]

Genesis 3:6 When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise [sakal] she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.

Joshua 1:7-8 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success [sakal] wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success [sakal].

My own efforts to be good, to become wise, smart, to take for myself rather than receive it from God through obedience and faith are like Eve's.

God's living word nourishes; delight is found in his presence; Jesus is wisdom. All the things Eve desired, God wanted for her, but she wanted to master her own destiny instead of humbly receiving from God's hand.

There's no shortcut to wisdom. It comes through obedience and walking by faith.

Praise Forever

2010-12-18T10:33:00.000-06:00

Who is He?
And who does He want me to be?

Psalms 145:21
21 My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord,
. Praiseworthy, Lord
. Give praise to the Lord in all that I say

and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.
. Lord of all, holy, eternal
. Join with all creation to bless his name, and bow to his holiness for eternity

Open Hand

2010-12-13T07:53:00.000-06:00

Who is He?
And who does he want me to be?

Psalms 145:13-20
13b [The Lord is faithful in all his words
. Lord, who always does what He says He will do
. Believe what He says

and kind in all his works.]
. Kind in all He does
. Trust His intentions

14 The Lord upholds all who are falling
. Lord, who holds up the falling
. Trust Him for stability

and raises up all who are bowed down.
. Exalter of the humble
. Bow down

15 The eyes of all look to you,
. Source for everyone
. Turn eyes to you, look to you

and you give them their food in due season.
. Giver, nourisher, in the right time
. Trust in times of need, wait

16 You open your hand;
. Generous, kind
. Come, ask

you satisfy the desire of every living thing.
. Desire satisfied for all
. Look to you to be satisfied

17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways
. Lord, righteous in every way
. Seek his ways

and kind in all his works.
. Kind in everything he does
. Watch for his kindness with gratitude

18 The Lord is near to all who call on him,
. Lord, near, hears all who call on him
. Call on him

to all who call on him in truth.
. Responsive to truth, responsive to people in need
. Call on him in truth, willing to accept his answer

19 He fulfills the desire of those who fear him;
. Fulfillment of desire, to be feared
. Fear him

he also hears their cry and saves them.
. Savior, responding to cries
. Cry to him

20 The Lord preserves all who love him,
. Lord, preserver, brings close to himself, love
. Love him, come close to him

but all the wicked he will destroy.
. Destroyer of wickedness
. Turn from wickedness

Make it Known

2010-12-04T08:37:00.002-06:00

Who is He?
And who does He want me to be?

Psalms 145:10-13
10 All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord,
. Honored, exalted, noticed, Lord
. Give you thanks

and all your saints shall bless you!
. Exalted One, blessed
. Honor and bless You

11 They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom
. King, with glorious kingdom
. Speak of the glory of your kingdom

and tell of your power,
. Powerful
. Tell of your power

12 to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds,
. Mighty in your deeds
. Make your mighty deeds known to humanity

and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
. King, with gloriously splendorous kingdom
. Make your gloriously splendorous kingdom known to humanity

13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
. King, with everlasting kingdom, never-ending rule
. Under your rulership forever

and your dominion endures throughout all generations.
. Ruler for every generation
. Under your dominion

Defined by Grace and Mercy

2010-12-03T08:13:00.002-06:00

Who is He?
And who does He want me to be?

Psalms 145:8-9
8 The Lord is gracious and merciful,
. Lord, gracious, merciful
. Walk by His grace, receive His mercy

slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
. Slow to get angry, extremely great in steadfast love
. Walk in His grace and love

9 The Lord is good to all,
. Lord, completely good, without reservation
. Walk in His goodness

and his mercy is over all that he has made.
. Merciful Creator
. Belong to Him, walk in His mercy

Good News for Life

2010-12-02T09:15:00.000-06:00

God's word spoken into my life is the seed that doesn't fail.

My own glory might be pretty like a flower, but it's short-lived.
God's glory is like the sun in strength and constancy. (see Psalm 19:1-6)

This good news is more than something to believe and hope in, it is the alive word in our hearts. It makes all the difference in how we live.

Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; for “All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the word of the Lord remains forever." And this word is the good news that was preached to you. 1 Peter 1:22-25

How to Have Sincere Love

2010-12-01T08:52:00.000-06:00

Obedience to the truth purifies your soul. A purified soul has a sincere brotherly love.
Obedience to the truth is the pathway to sincere love for others. This type of love is earnest from a pure heart.

Obedience to the truth is the only way to have earnest love from a pure, sincere heart.

1 Peter 1:22 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart...

Tell the Next Generation

2010-11-26T10:08:00.002-06:00

Who is He?
And who does He want me to be?

Psalms 145:4-7
4 One generation shall commend your works to another,
. Commendable in Works, Timeless and relevant for all generations
. Present your works to children and grandchildren as worthy of regard

and shall declare your mighty acts.
. Mighty in Action
. Conspicuously tell the mighty things you do

5 On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
. Majestic, with glorious splendor
. Be your subject, in subjection to your majesty

and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
. Worker of Wonders, unexplainable miracles
. Think deeply and talk about who you are and what you do

6 They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds,
. Mighty in Awesome Deeds, beyond understanding
. Speak of your might, tell what you have done

and I will declare your greatness.
. Great
. Recount and speak of how your greatness has been seen

7 They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness
. Famous for being abundantly good
. Bubble over with news of how good you are

and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.
. Righteous
. Give a ringing cry of how righteous you are, perfect, complete, and true

Do You Call Him Father?

2010-11-24T10:11:00.000-06:00

Do you call on Him as Father?

Then be an obedient child and don't let your life take the shape of your former desires and passionate longings. Be holy in the way you live. Walk in His holiness.

He is an impartial Father, able to judge your obedience.

Father paid for your freedom from your former desires and passionate longings with the high value blood of Christ, the sacrificial lamb of perfect obedience.

1 Peter 1:17-19
17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one's deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.

Unsearchably Great

2010-11-21T08:20:00.002-06:00

Who is He?
And who does He want me to be?

Psalms 145:1-3
1 I will extol you, my God and King,
. God, King, personal, worthy to be lifted up
. Extol my God, extol my King

and bless your name forever and ever
. Exalted Name, Eternal
. Repeatedly speak the goodness of His Name, spend eternity with Him

2 Every day I will bless you
. Noticeable, Present
. Daily put attention on God, give verbal acclamation

and praise your name forever and ever.
. Worthy of praise for all time, and beyond time
. Praise Him freely, frequently, and forever

3 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised,
. Great, Lord, due great praise
. Praise Him greatly, extravagantly

and his greatness is unsearchable.
. Unsearchably Great, beyond human study and science
. Trust Him for what cannot be seen or understood

245 Emails to Go

2010-11-18T21:37:00.000-06:00

Email load.. Feel personal responsibility for every unanswered email?
Isaiah 40:18-31

Isaiah 40:26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name, by the greatness of his might, and because he is strong in power not one is missing.

Surely, if God can create the stars, and number and name each one, and make sure every one is where it's supposed to be, He can take manage to take care of the people who didn't get an email reply from me today.

It's time to share

2010-03-15T10:09:00.005-05:00

Share ministry tasks to accomplish more.

Do only what God has called you to do.

Be aware of what parts of ministry you can share with others.

Consider how to include others in what you see God doing.

Eph 4:7, 11-12 But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. ...And He gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,

It's not just sharing or handing off, it's equipping. It's not for the purpose of lightening your load. It's to build up the body of Christ, which is not a one person job.

Sing a Love Song

2009-08-17T05:30:00.001-05:00

During the season of discovering God's will for me regarding the USA National Director position for Moms In Touch International, I was reciting Psalms 145 - 150. The Lord brought to my attention the numerous verses in these passages about singing. During that time, I started writing a simple song. I developed it at the piano day after day, little by little. But I couldn't find the words to go with it. I only knew the first line: Sing a love song. I tried over and over to fit words to the song, but nothing worked.

One day recently, when I was fighting a battle with worry, I read Psalm 27:6. And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me, and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melody to the Lord. At that moment I felt like the Lord said to me in bold letters, Do not let anything shut down the melody to the Lord! And then I remembered the thread about music in the Psalms, and I also realized my little song was part of my melody to the Lord.

Friday, on my last working day as a Regional Director, I sat down at the piano and started playing my little song and the words finally came. It was some sort of private commissioning moment for me. Just Jesus and me. "Okay, I think you're ready now."

Sing a Love Song

Sing a love song; make a melody

Sing it long; make it rich with harmony

There's a love song deep in me

You're the Prince; You're my King

You gave everything away to live with me

You have called me Your own,

Now I worship at Your throne in humble awe.

Jesus, You're the Song in me

I Live Here

2009-08-15T17:10:00.003-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:6b

My dwelling place is the house of the Lord.

The house of the Lord shall be my dwelling place.

Forever - for length of days - through the length of my days.

From now on I am called by His name. I carry His name. I am in His household.

The Shepherd, who is Lord Eternal, has made me a family member. He has me call His Kingdom my home.

And I get to invite my friends to come over any time.

Who Is Following You?

2009-08-14T11:13:00.006-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. Psalm 23:6a

Only goodness and mercy (YLT)
[They] shall pursue me (YLT)

Goodness:

Only God is good. see Mark 10:18
His works attest to His abundant goodness. see Psalm 145:7
The Lord is good to all, and His mercy is over all that He has made. Psalm 145:9
His abundant goodness is stored up for those who fear Him. see Psalm 31:19
We are satisfied with the goodness of His house. see Psalm 65:4
We shall be radiant over the goodness of the Lord, satisfied with His goodness. see Jeremiah 31:12, 14

When the goodness and mercy of God our Savior appeared, He saved us! from Titus 3:4-7

I am satisfied with His goodness and I'm justified by His grace which comes from His mercy. As I walk in the goodness and mercy He has for me I become more and more like Him.

If I look back at the tracks that follow me, will I see goodness and mercy?

Overflow

2009-08-13T09:17:00.003-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Psalm 23:5b

My cup is full; my cup runs over.

Rich satisfaction of life with God.

Anoint means smeared on.

A cup is for drinking.

I'm covered with His Spirit and my cup is filled with Living Water.

be covered with and drink in...

When I'm coated with the Holy Spirit, Living Water is full in me, spilling out.

Costly Meal

2009-07-31T09:21:00.004-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Psalm 23:5a

You arrange a place for me to dine where enemies will be watching.

Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." John 6:35

...the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes...Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 1 Corinthians 11:23-28

The body and blood of Jesus, given for us.

The meal of our eternal covenant prepared for us on the table of grace.

May we never pass by or overlook what has been prepared with such loving hands at such great a cost.

Comfort or Comfortable?

2009-07-26T15:02:00.007-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4c

Rod of protection, staff of guidance - comfort. Holy Spirit, the rod and staff of God?

May I be satisfied with God's comforts, not the comforts of the world. Looking to be comforted, not comfortable.

When I encounter fear and insecurity, will I find comfort in God or will I choose worldly devices to make me comfortable?

Maybe the rod is God's justice and the staff is His mercy. God's justice and His mercy intersected at the cross of Christ. God with us. Making the way for His Spirit to dwell in us.

That's the life of comfort I desire.

Fear No Evil

2009-07-23T09:22:00.003-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

I will fear no evil, for You are with me. Psalm 23:4b

Immanuel - God with us. Jesus.

God's presence removes fearfulness and worry.

Because He is with me, I can walk through the valley being bold and courageous.

Walking in faith means not walking in fear.

"And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." --Jesus (Matthew 28:20b)

Walk through the Valley

2009-07-22T10:02:00.003-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. Psalm 23:4a

When I walk through the valley of death-shade, I will fear no evil.

Be still, my soul. Evil will not cause me to fear.

The shepherd has already made me lie down; he has led me in quietness; he has led me in his paths and has given direction.

Now when I walk through the lowest part of a difficult journey, amazingly, I am not afraid.

Couldn't this present world be considered a valley of the shadow of death? Don't we see the effects of evil every day? People dying - physically and spiritually. Children in the shadow of death. Families overcome by evil influences.

Yet, when I walk through - not over or around - this valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil.

Isn't that what Jesus did? He chose to walk through this valley. The surroundings did not cause Him to walk in fear.

Doesn't Jesus, the Shepherd, tell us, "Follow me, be My disciples, do what I do?"

How to Follow

2009-07-21T13:02:00.003-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Psalm 23:3b

Paths, plural

The things I do, and the decisions I make help determine the paths that I will walk on.

That is why it is so important for me to follow the leader - the shepherd.

When I lean on my own understanding, the path is likely to go the way of fear or pride, not righteousness.
My own understanding attempts to make me look good.
Leaning on God's understanding makes Him look good - paths of righteousness for His name's sake.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:5-7

Being Restored

2009-07-18T12:47:00.004-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

He restores my soul. Psalm 23:3a

He refreshes me.

To restore is to bring back to original beauty. He knows how to bring me back to His design.

This shepherd takes the imperfect and makes it beautiful and useful. My soul is His restoration project.

Peace and Quiet

2009-07-17T10:41:00.002-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

He leads me beside still waters. Psalm 23:2b

He leads me beside waters of rest - quiet waters.

When I follow where He leads I walk with tranquility. There's a quietness about the Shepherd that eliminates all need for worry or fear.

He leads me beside still, quiet, restful waters. Daily stillness with the Lord. Daily Sabbath.

In those days I saw in Judah people treading winepresses on the Sabbath, and bringing in heaps of grain and loading them on donkeys, and also wine, grapes, figs, and all kinds of loads, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. And I warned them on the day when they sold food. Tyrians also, who lived in the city, brought in fish and all kinds of goods and sold them on the Sabbath to the people of Judah, in Jerusalem itself! Nehemiah 13:15-16

I have to take care of my responsibilities. My to do list is very full with necessary tasks. My [fill in the blank - family, church, friends, business, ministry] is depending on me. I'm busy with life; there's no time for the stillness of Sabbath that shows no external or immediate productivity!

What did Nehemiah do to help the people obey Sabbath?

According to Nehemiah 13:19-20, he ordered the city gates shut before Sabbath, not to be opened again until Sabbath was over. No exceptions.

And laying just outside the gate waiting for it to open was not acceptable.

What can we do to guard that daily time of stillness with God?

We must shut the gate on anything (email, twitter, work, TV, etc.) that could tempt us away from that restful time with the Shepherd. And allow no exceptions.

Then I commanded the Levites that they should purify themselves and come and guard the gates, to keep the Sabbath day holy... Nehemiah 13:22

Stop before You Start

2009-07-16T12:54:00.005-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd.

He makes me lie down in green pastures. Psalm 23:2a

He causes me to lie down.

He sees and understands my need. Better than I do.

Wait and rest in His complete care.

No anxiety or worries.

Dependence on His care for me.

Often, the first step of faith is waiting. and waiting. and waiting.

He has to make me stop and lie down so I will wait instead of rushing forward to do something. Do something, anything; just do something.

No, He says wait. Lie down first in green pastures. Rest.

You can only rest if you trust. Trust the Shepherd. He knows and understands.

Waiting is about trusting, isn't it?

No-Fail Care

2009-07-15T13:36:00.006-05:00

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1

Saying "Lord" means submission. I submit to my shepherd, to trust Him to care for me.

I don't have to live a restless, unsatisfied life. There's a deep peace knowing that the Creator-Shepherd is looking after me. That's no-fail care.

Play it Slow

2009-06-26T06:42:00.001-05:00

You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. James 5:8

What does it mean to establish your heart? What does that have to do with patience?

My music students have heard me say many times, "You will not be able to play it fast until you are able to play it slow."

Don't rush through the learning part.
In the slow practice you will build your foundation to advance your skills.
In the slow practice you can make sure the understanding gaps are filled in.
When your speed exceeds your skill, it's a sloppy outcome.
If you practice it right going slow, there's less to fix or unlearn later.
If you have the patience to practice it right going slow, chances are you will be able to play it fast.

I can see now that my heart is established as I take the time to treasure the learning process. That takes patience, doesn't it? But it sets me up for the rigors of advancing His kingdom in ever-increasing earthly turmoil.

Dear Lord, establish my heart.

With Great Awareness

2009-06-25T18:19:00.005-05:00

You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. James 5:8

Here's the prayer this verse stirred in me:

That I would see every day as a day closer to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, so that with great awareness of His calling and instructions, I would be fully obedient in all things.

Ever Feel Like You have Too Much to Do?

2009-06-22T08:00:00.002-05:00

It happens to all of us. Almost without our knowledge or approval our schedule fills up.

Events, activities, assignments, responsibilities, deadlines, projects

It's like the closet in the hallway, or the junk drawer in the kitchen. When we don't want to take the time to figure out where a thing belongs, we throw it in there. There's always room for one more thing.

Or, like a house that's been your residence for many years. Have you noticed how many things you accumulate without even trying?

There are some really great things in that hall closet and in the junk drawer. In fact, there are a few things in there that are essentials, but the fuller the drawer, the harder it is to find the most important things.

It's time to pull everything out and take a look at each thing.

Discard? Give away? Keep?

Put the few things back in that are right for this time in your life.

It's possible to go for years, or even a lifetime, without evaluating what's filling up your "time closet." That's the way to lose track of the most important things. It's never convenient or easy to go through the process that looks at each thing.

Discard? Give Away? Keep?

Keep the few things that are right for this time in your life.

You open Your hand, You satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:16

Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides You. Psalm 73:25

Come Nearer

2009-06-19T08:40:00.003-05:00

The desire to be near to God compels us to repent.

Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully. Psalm 24:3-4

Being near to God propels us to repentance.

Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:8

Need More Grace

2009-06-17T08:24:00.002-05:00

If you're not seeing God's grace, there may be pride in the way.

But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." James 4:6

Pretty simple, really. Not easy, but simple.

Servant and Steward

2009-06-12T09:44:00.005-05:00

We're called to be stewards of the mysteries of God!

Karen, servant of Christ and steward of God's mysteries.

This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. 1 Corinthians 4:1-2

You're going on a journey and you are being asked to guard and keep the treasures in your care. On the journey God is your sole protection - and the journey will be treacherous. Because of the great value of the treasure in your care, there will be enemy forces and ambushes on the way. But since your entreaty [earnest or urgent request] for safe passage has come to God's ears, His hand will be on you as you go. Trust Him you must. You are not going alone; there are others on the journey with you. Stay together - that's part of the protection God is giving you.

Read about the journey that Ezra and twelve leading priests took in Ezra 8:21-36.

What journey are you facing? What are the treasures that God is putting in your care? Who will you trust to take you through the potentially treacherous road?

Christian Celebrities

2009-06-07T15:33:00.004-05:00

Quit looking at Christian leaders as celebrities.

The planter and waterer are not anything. Nothing.
God gives growth.

I [Paul] planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7

Natural person

People of the flesh, not growing spiritually (1 Corinthians 2:14; 3:1)
You see the people who are building God's house - the building contractors (1 Corinthians 3:5-9)
You are following the builders, because that's what you see with your natural eyes (1 Corinthians 3:3-4, 21)

Spiritual person

People taught by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:10, 13)
You see with spiritual eyes that the builders are building a house for God's Spirit to dwell, a place for His presence to reside (1 Corinthians 3:9-15)
You recognize that you are that House of God (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
You follow God (1 Corinthians 2:12-13, 16; 3:18-23)

Summary 1 Corinthians 3:
Building God's house

Don't focus on the construction company; follow God, not the builders
Make a place for God's presence to dwell
God brings the growth

I Don't Have All the Answers

2009-06-04T10:29:00.003-05:00

Consider your calling.

Were you chosen because you were wise, powerful, noble? No.

God chooses the foolish and the weak, not the wise and strong.
God chooses the low, despised, and the nothing.

So that no flesh may boast in His presence.

Because of God's grace you are in Christ Jesus.
Jesus became to you wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, redemption.

Boast in the Lord!
Be nothing.
(from 1 Corinthians 1:26-31)

I decided to know nothing.

I do not have all the answers.
I do know the cross of Jesus Christ.

For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. --Paul (1 Corinthians 2:2)

Extreme Obedience

2009-06-02T15:40:00.003-05:00

Jesus made Himself nothing.

But made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:7

Have this same mind; this mind is yours in Christ Jesus.

This is your attitude when you are in Christ.

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5

Look to the interests of others, not just to your own interests.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:4

Jesus humbled Himself. How did He humble Himself?

He did it through obedience to the point of death.
For me to humble myself, does that mean death to self?

And being found in human form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:8

Obey with fear and trembling.

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Philippians 2:12

God works the heart of obedience in you.

To want to do it
To do it

For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:13

Obedience is doing it without grumbling or questioning.

Because you trust your Father
Makes you shine as a light in the world in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation

Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. Philippians 2:14-15

Less Eloquence, Please

2009-05-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

My eloquent human words have the potential of voiding the power of Christ's cross.

The power of the cross is the work of salvation through the Holy Spirit, not human clever persuasion.

Christ [sent me]...to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. 1 Corinthians 1:17

Call Me "Mom"

2009-05-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

I think it's cool that Rufus' mom acted as "mom" to Rufus' friends, including Paul.

Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well. --Paul (Romans 16:13)

What Do You Desire?

2009-05-28T10:18:00.005-05:00

Is it okay to have desires? What does God think about our desires?

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. James 1:14

Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

You open Your hand; You satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:16

He fulfills the desire of those who fear Him; He also hears their cry and saves them. Psalm 145:19

I guess it depends on the source of the desire.

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. Galatians 5:16-17

Desire that comes out of the Spirit's influence is desire that will be satisfied.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Galatians 5:22-24

To Go Where No Man Has Gone

2009-05-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

Paul's ambition was to preach the gospel where it hadn't yet been heard.

And thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of Him will see, and those who have never heard will understand." Romans 15:20-21

Do you suppose Paul saw his own obedient life as fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy?

Be Patient

2009-05-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

A message for parents, leaders, friends:

Is there someone who is not keeping up with their responsibilities?

are they idle (or disorderly, or undisciplined)?
are they fainthearted?
are they weak?

Different needs require different approaches. You must have discernment to know their condition so you can respond appropriately.

for the idle, admonish them
for the fainthearted, encourage them
for the weak, help them

For all of them -- Be Patient.

As a parent, leader, or friend, we have an obligation not to please ourselves. We must bear the failings of the weak. (from Romans 15:1)

And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. 1 Thessalonians 5:14

Praise and Worship

2009-05-22T12:07:00.003-05:00

Praise

Praise is living with the recognition of God's greatness -- expressing it with words, music - singing and instruments, dance, and posture.

Worship

Worship is living with a heart of praise.

First verses:

Psalm 145 I will extol You, my god and King, and bless Your name forever and ever.
Psalm 146 Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!
Psalm 147 Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting.
Psalm 148 Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise Him in the heights!
Psalm 149 Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song, His praise in the assembly of the godly!
Psalm 150 Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty heavens!

Righteousness, Peace, and Joy

2009-05-21T20:45:00.004-05:00

The Kingdom of God is not about rules.

It's about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Walking by the Spirit.

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. Romans 14:17-18

Walking by the Spirit -- that is serving Christ.

Love Is Obedience

2009-05-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Always walk in love and you will be obeying God.

Put love behind every decision, action, and motive, and you will be in total compliance to God's will.

"Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?" And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets." Matthew 22:36-40

Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, "You shall no commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet," and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Romans 13:8-10

Obedience = Love
Love = Obedience

Faith Test

2009-05-14T10:03:00.003-05:00

Facing a challenging situation?

I'm counting all of it as joy, as I meet this opportunity to put my faith on trial, for I know that the testing of my faith produces steadfastness.

And I will let steadfastness have its full effect in my life, that I may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing -- knowing that God supplies everything I need. (see Psalm 23:1)

The full effect of steadfastness is faith that is operating at full strength.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its
full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

As our faith is tested we see God faithful.

Satisfied, Trusting, and His

2009-05-10T14:33:00.006-05:00

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned--every one--to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:6

Iniquity:

go astray like sheep - all we
turn to our own way - every one

What does it mean to go astray like sheep?

The Shepherd leads in His way
Psalm 23

He is shepherd

I don't want or lack - I am completely satisfied in Him

He leads to green pastures
He leads to still waters
He restores me
He leads in righteous paths

He is with me in frightening times

I don't fear evil - I trust Him completely

His rod and staff comfort me
He prepares and provides for me - in front of my enemies

He anoints me with oil to overflowing

Goodness and mercy follow me
I live in the Lord's house - I live as one of His own

To go astray like sheep, and to turn to our own way, is to ignore, reject, or turn away from God's wondrous goodness and mercy.

To go the way of the Shepherd is to be completely satisfied in Him, trust Him completely, and live as one of His own.

Find Out God's Will

2009-05-06T16:21:00.005-05:00

Renew your mind so you can find out God's will.
Find out God's will so you can obey it.
God's will is good and acceptable and perfect.

The renewal of your mind will transform you. It will change you.
Transform = change to a new form or shape

If you are conformed to this world, this age, this current culture we live in, you won't be able to discern what God's will is.
You won't care what God wants.
Conform = adapt to the form or shape of something

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

We Don't Know What to Do!

2009-04-28T10:03:00.004-05:00

We don't know what to do!
There are so many things coming against us:

economic uncertainty
violence in schools
wrong is treated as if it's right and right is treated as if it's wrong
people caught in traps of selfishness
political waywardness
fearlessness of God

We are powerless to stop any of this.

...We are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You. -- King Jehoshaphat [2 Chronicles 20:12]

Their greatest concern was for their families, especially the children.

Meanwhile all Judah stood before the Lord, with their little ones, their wives, and their children. 2 Chronicles 20:13

Listen! ...Thus says the Lord to you, "Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's. You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem." Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you. 2 Chronicles 20:15, 17

Stand firm
Hold your position
Watch God save you
Do not be afraid or dismayed
Go, and the Lord will go with you

When they began to sing and praise, the Lord brought victory against the enemy.

And when they began to sing and praise, the Lord set an ambush against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah, so that they were routed. 2 Chronicles 20:22

Thank You, Lord! Your steadfast love endures forever.

Seek with Your Whole Desire

2009-04-25T09:29:00.005-05:00

Seek or Forsake

The Lord is with you while you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2

But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded. 2 Chronicles 15:7

This word from the prophet inspired King Asa to continue in obedience doing difficult things.

He put away idols
He repaired the altar of the Lord

As soon as Asa heard these words...he took courage and put away the detestable idols from all the land of Judah and Benjamin...and he repaired the altar of the Lord that was in front of the vestibule of the house of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 15:8

Great numbers deserted their false religions when thy saw that God was with Asa.

And he gathered all Judah and Benjamin, and those from Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon who were residing with them, for great numbers had deserted to him from Israel when they saw that the Lord his God was with him. 2 Chronicles 15:9

Seek God and He will be found by you. He will strengthen you with courage to obey and to do the work that He has called you to do. Others will be able to see that God is with you, and through that He will draw them to Himself.

If you are a leader you have the opportunity to affect the lives of many for Christ by simply seeking God yourself.

And they entered into a covenant to seek the Lord, the God of their fathers, with all their heart and with all their soul...And all Judah rejoiced over the oath, for they had sworn with all their heart and had sought him with their whole desire, and he was found by them, and the Lord gave them rest all around. 2 Chronicles 15:12, 15

Seek the Lord with your whole desire, and He will be found by you, and the Lord will give you rest.

It Is Time to Shout!

2009-04-15T10:08:00.003-05:00

Battle

They looked - they could see the battle was in front and behind. They were surrounded and were outnumbered 2 to 1.
They cried to the Lord and the priests blew trumpets.
They raised the battle shout.

What did that shout sound like? I think it was deafening - a mixture of adrenaline, faith, and courage. I think it took on a life of its own and it elevated the intensity of the moment. I think everyone participated in the shout - who would want to be the only one not shouting? I think it unified and strengthened them for the imminent battle, and prepared them to run toward, not from, the fight.

What were they saying? or was it just hoopla's and noises? I don't know, but I'm certain it was powerful and it was loud. You can't shout quietly.

When they shouted, God defeated the enemy. That we know. It's a part of the story. Notice, the shout came first. We might rather see God defeat the enemy first, and then we'll shout. It's as if God was waiting for the moment that faith kicked in so He could do His part.

Battle won: They prevailed in battle because they relied on the Lord their God.
They still had to fight, but it was God who ensured their victory.

Read the story in context in 2 Chronicles 13:13-20

Dreams and Wishes

2009-04-10T09:47:00.004-05:00

I wrote this note to Melody during a time of difficult circumstances that brought deep pain. As I reflect on that time and the intervening 8 1/2 years I am struck with the wonder of God's enduring love. Melody is now embarking on a new journey as a missionary.
God be with you, Melody, as always.

Everything I wrote then, I still mean now.
This is for you, my Melody Faith.

Dreams and Wishes

Melody Faith, how I love you.
Every mother would be delighted
with a daughter like you.
You are a beautiful Jewel,
a precious treasure;
you are my Melody.

If dreams could be reality,
if wishes could come true,
I'd place you in a fairy tale
with these wishes just for you:

I would wish you
happiness that never ends.
And I'd wish for you great
pleasure having many lifelong friends.
My dream would be
you'd have no pain;
the sun would shine,
never clouds nor rain.

If I knew everything,
my wishes would be grand;
but The One who knows your future
has you in the palm of His hand.

Trusting in the Lord,
you'll have joy without end.
Put your faith in God;
He'll be your forever friend.
He will hold you in your sorrows,
giving shelter when there's pain.
Standing in His Light, my Flower,
You'll grow when He brings rain.

Life or Death, You Choose

2009-04-09T10:05:00.007-05:00

Sin vs. Righteousness
It's not about wanting to do the right thing bad enough, or trying hard enough.

Paul: For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Romans 7:19

Where are you setting your mind?
On the things of the flesh? (me, myself, and I)

death, hostile to God, not submissive, disobedient

On the things of the Spirit?

life and peace

Your heart condition is closely related to where you choose to set your mind.

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5

A mind set on the flesh is hostile to God

Does not obey
Cannot obey

For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Romans 8:7

Mind set on the flesh = walking in the flesh = live according to self rule

Cannot please God

Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:8

They please themselves

Obedience pleases God.

God condemned our sin and disobedience in the flesh of Jesus, the perfectly obedient One...
so that the fulfillment of the righteous requirement of perfect obedience might be transferred to us, who obey the Spirit, not the flesh.

...By sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:3-4

Live according to the Spirit to experience a life of true obedience.

Death and Life

2009-04-08T09:55:00.004-05:00

Christ Died

While we were still weak and ungodly

Christ died at the right time (Romans 5:6)
Now we are strong in Jesus

While we were still sinners

Christ died showing God's love (Romans 5:8)
Now we are righteous in Jesus

While we were enemies

Christ died. The death of God's Son reconciled us to God (Romans 5:10)
Now we are friends with God in Jesus

Now we are

Strong
Righteous
Friends with God

Reconcile
ORIGIN: c.1350, from Latin reconcilare, from re-"again" + concilare "make friendly"

Reconcile includes:

Forgiveness
Agreement
Making Peace

Because of Christ's death on the cross I am reconciled to God.
Because of His life I am saved. (Romans 5:10)
That means I can live in God's forgiveness, agree with His heart, and have peace with God.

Fully Convinced

2009-03-31T19:51:00.003-05:00

Faith definition - Being fully convinced that God is able to do what He has promised.

No distrust made him [Abraham] waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what He had promised. Romans 4:20-21 ESV

Abraham's faith was measured as righteousness.
His faith was counted to him as if he had completely obeyed all the law.

Abraham was fully convinced.

That is why his faith was "counted to him as righteousness." Romans 4:22

God's holiness requires total obedience from all.
His lovingkindness desires faith in all.
Faith unlocks His grace toward us.

Written for us: counted to him [us] as righteousness (from Romans 4:23-24)

Faith definition - Believe in God who raised the sinless One, Jesus, from the dead.
Believe that Jesus was given to death for our disobedience and raised for our justification.

My disobedience was cleared, not counted against me before Holy God!

But the words "it was counted to him" were not written for his sake alone, but for ours also. It will be counted to us who believe in Him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification. Romans 4:23-25

Result - Peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2

Through Jesus we stand in God's grace.
Faith in Jesus is the access into this grace.

King David's Closest Advisors

2009-03-24T20:08:00.003-05:00

Who was on King David's core staff?
1 Chronicles 24:32-34

1. A Counselor (Jonathan, David's uncle)

man of understanding and a scribe
attended to the king's sons

2. The King's Counselor (Ahithophel, then Jehoida, then Abiathar)

3. The King's Friend (Hushai the Archite)

4. Commander of the King's Army (Joab)

Which one do you think was the most important? Why?

If you were there, which position would you fill? Why?

Peace, Passion, and Patience

2009-03-06T16:15:00.006-06:00

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31

Wait for the Lord and your strength will be renewed.

Fly – see overview – Peace, and soar

Run – see the urgent – Passion, and not be weary

Walk – see the long road ahead – Patience, and not give up

Strength comes when you admit you have none on your own.

He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.
Isaiah 40:29

Who Do You Represent?

2009-02-20T11:52:00.004-06:00

You are God's means of loving people around you.

the lovable and the unlovable

How else will they experience the love of God?

That's one reason sin matters

if your attitude is bad
if you are impatient
if you fill your time with worthless things
if you manage your own life instead of walking by the Spirit
if you refuse to deny the flesh

...how will you be able to represent God to the people around you who so desperately need Him?

Do you know that God's kindness is meant to lead people to repentance? (from Romans 2:4)

You may be the precise point of kindness extended from God's hand that touches someones soul for good.

LIFE: through the eyes of a servant: Ike Wasn't All Good, But Ike Wasn't All Bad Either...

2009-02-18T14:10:00.000-06:00

LIFE: through the eyes of a servant: Ike Wasn't All Good, But Ike Wasn't All Bad Either...

Living by Faith

2009-02-09T13:35:00.003-06:00

grace - calling - obedience - faith

Where does one end and the other begin?

Through Jesus Christ we have received grace and a calling (apostleship) to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of Jesus' name among all the nations. from Romans 1:4-5 ESV

To bring about obedience of faith among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. (v.6)

Doesn't everyone have a longing to belong to someone? That longing is fulfilled when we belong to Jesus.

But with belonging is obedience of faith. What is obedience of faith?

Living what you believe

This kind of obedience is trusting God moment by moment, belonging to Him and living like it. Living by faith.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, "The righteous shall live by faith." Romans 1:16-17 ESV

Rejoicing with All Their Might

2009-02-06T10:46:00.004-06:00

And David and all Israel were rejoicing before God with all their might, with song and lyres and harps and tambourines and cymbals and trumpets. 1 Chronicles 13:8 ESV

Sounds like a glorious worship celebration, doesn't it?
Not quite. Take a closer look...

This celebration happened right in the middle of a huge operation that excluded the counsel of God. Big-time disobedience even cost the life of a man, which quickly halted all the rejoicing and songs and 'cellos and trumpets. The whole episode is described in 1 Chronicles 13.

David had consulted with all the important people. He even asked them if his idea seemed good to them. He seriously wanted their opinions, and got them - they all agreed with him. "...the thing was right in the eyes of all the people." He failed to consult God.

The big idea? To bring the ark of God back home. What was wrong with that?
We have a few clues:

"...for we did not seek it in the days of Saul." They were seeking the ark instead of seeking God, Himself. The ark may have represented God's power, blessing, and favor to them.
"And they carried the ark of God on a new cart..." God gave specific instructions about transporting the ark of the covenant. It was to be on special poles, carried by the hands of men - maybe so they could feel the weight of it? Putting it on a cart made it "easy" for them, and gave them some distance from the holiness. It also elevated the ark so that the ark, itself, was being honored, rather than the "name of the Lord who sits enthroned above the cherubim."

Now take another look at the worship celebration.
"...rejoicing before God with all their might..." They were rejoicing, but were they worshiping God?
Maybe it was just a big party.

Do we ever do that?

An Undivided Heart

2009-02-03T13:35:00.001-06:00

How does God guide people?

Integrity -

an undivided or unbroken completeness or totality with nothing wanting
moral soundness

ORIGIN: From Latin integratas, from integer.

Integer - whole number, "an integer is a number that is not a fraction"

The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them. Proverbs 11:3 ESV

To have God's heart of integrity within is one sure means of guidance.

complete, pure, undivided, untouched by evil, true

Broken Faith

2009-02-02T19:08:00.005-06:00

What is a breach of faith?

But they broke faith with the God of their fathers... 1 Chronicles 5:25-26

...And Judah was taken into exile in Babylon because of their breach of faith. 1 Chronicles 9:1

So Saul died for his breach of faith. 1 Chronicles 10:13a

Breach of faith is:

Choosing to not obey God.
Seeking guidance from another source besides God.

[Saul] broke faith with the Lord in that he did not keep the command of the Lord, and also consulted a medium, seeking guidance. He did not seek guidance from the Lord. 1 Chronicles 10:13b

We don't just need guidance. We need guidance from God. That's part of our faith-fulness toward God - trusting Him for the help that He desires to provide for us.

Pride Hurts

2009-01-30T13:19:00.002-06:00

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. Proverbs 11:2 ESV

Jesus had to suffer disgrace because of my pride.

i'm so sorry.

Life Purpose

2009-01-29T09:58:00.003-06:00

Acts 26:1-32

Paul was on his way to Damascus to unleash more of his raging fury (vs. 11) on followers of Jesus.
Jesus Himself showed up on the way and spoke to Paul - Stand up as I tell you My purpose for your life! (vs. 16)

You are appointed as a servant and witness (vs. 16)
I am sending you to people (Gentiles), to open their eyes (vs. 17-18)

When the people's eyes are opened:

They'll be able to turn from darkness/Satan to light/God

When the people have turned to God:

They'll be able to receive God's personal forgiveness
They'll have a place in the body of Christ

Paul lived out this life purpose that Jesus handed to him. He did not disobey the call from heaven. (vs. 19)
This was Paul's message to people, Gentiles and Jews (vs. 21):

Repent
Turn to God
Live like it

The Desire

2009-01-28T09:57:00.003-06:00

It's been said that there's a longing inside every person; and that longing is to know the meaning of life. Maybe that's the desire of every living thing.

The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food in due season.
You open Your hand; You satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:15-16 ESV

He fulfills the desire of those who fear Him; He also hears their cry and saves them. Psalm 145:19

Picture God opening His hand in a gesture that is generously giving. Giving all. He freely offers to satisfy that deep longing.

What does God's open hand look like?
Jesus' hand was opened and nailed to the cross. That's what God's open hand looks like.
The desire of every living thing is a longing for God. The sacrificial love of Jesus on the cross was God's open hand to us.

That desire in us is fulfilled when we meet the good news of God's grace and surrender to His Desire. Fear God - recognize and acknowledge His position, authority, and power that is made available on your behalf through His great Love.

Love so amazing, love so Divine, demands my soul, my life, my all...

Yield Sign

2009-01-23T13:52:00.006-06:00

Unyielding
1. resistant to physical force or pressure
2. stubbornly unyielding

Do you know someone who is unyielding? Are you unyielding?

won't listen
stubborn
protective of his ways

Then maybe he's been offended by you or someone else. Have you been offended?

Quarreling makes it impossible to understand the other person.

to get to his thoughts, hurts, desires

Persuasion can turn to quarreling. Watch out.

A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city,
and quarreling is like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18:19 ESV

If there's been an offense, ask for forgiveness and/or forgive, depending on which side of the offense you're on.

When you quarrel, you're not allowing the other person to understand you.
Maybe it's time to just listen. Time to yield.

Is it Okay to Point out Your Own Humility?

2009-01-04T11:06:00.000-06:00

A humble person can tell others he's humble and still be humble.

Humility defined? Serving the Lord. Not serving yourself.

...You yourselves know how I lived among you...serving the Lord with all humility... Acts 20:18-19
This was Paul speaking about himself.

Talk, talk, talk

2009-01-03T10:47:00.000-06:00

Paul was leaving Troas and wanted to share his heart with the believers before he left.

Acts 20:7-12

Paul must have had a lot to share. He talked and talked.
Paul:

talked with them
prolonged his speech until midnight
talked still longer
was interrupted by a catastrophe
participated in a miracle - dead boy came alive
had a bite to eat
conversed with them a long while, until daybreak

After being up all night Paul traveled by land to Assos where he met the ship his companions were on. From there, they sailed toward Jerusalem, hoping to make it there by the day of Pentecost.

I wonder if this was part of what Paul had on his heart to share at Troas. Jerusalem? Pentecost?
Destiny - a destination and a specific time

When you know your destiny in God's plan, you have a sense of urgency. Did the people of Troas catch that? Did they find their destiny in God's plan and continue to spread the message? I'm sure that was what Paul hoped for.

More or Less?

2009-01-02T10:39:00.004-06:00

2009, The Year of Less and More

eat less than I want
buy less than I want
keep less than I want
say less than I want

listen more
show kindness more - actively, persistently, deliberately
be attentive more
disciple more
give more
be humble more
know God more

Less of me, more of Jesus

How to Resist Temptation

2008-12-09T08:00:00.001-06:00

Temptation and the Way of Escape

Delectable holiday delights consumed due to self-indulgence, which is a form of greed, do not benefit me in any way.

Perfect obedience through walking by the Spirit prevents me from taking the path that leads to death.

It's all about listening and paying attention, isn't it? Righteousness is perfect obedience, which describes Jesus. His Spirit will lead us safely through the temptation obstacle course of life.

Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death. Proverbs 10:2

But I say, walk by the Spirit,and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Galatians 5:16

Glad Dads

2008-12-08T14:29:00.003-06:00

A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother. Proverbs 10:1

What I'd like to know is - why do the dads get the gladness and the moms get the sorrow?

Ignoring the Rescuer

2008-12-04T19:29:00.004-06:00

A familiar story

Jehoahaz began his reign over Israel. He did what was evil in the sight of the Lord by not departing from the sins that were prevalent when he took over.

This sin brought the anger of the Lord against Israel and removed His protection from the oppression that came from the king of Syria.

Then Jehoahaz prayed, and the Lord listened to him!

For Jehoahaz was left with an army that did not have sufficient soldiers, for the king of Syria had destroyed them and made them like dust that blows away in the wind.

The Lord then gave Israel a savior, so that they escaped from the Syrian oppression, and the people of Israel lived happily ever after back in their own homes as they did formerly.

Wow, the people responded with wonderful rejoicing and thanksgiving feasts to exalt God who rescued them, right?

Wrong!

Nevertheless - oh, this word is an important clue to what comes next...

Nevertheless, the people did not depart from the sins that were prevalent, but walked in them; and some of the worst practices remained on prominent display.

Read the entire story in 2 Kings 13:1-9

The people of Israel were saved from wicked oppression but didn't credit God, ...even though it was obvious they couldn't save themselves.

Is this a lesson for us today?

Wisdom Test

2008-11-27T10:50:00.007-06:00

Are you a wise person or are you a scoffer?

wise - marked by deep understanding, keen discernment, and a capacity for sound judgment Merriam-Webster

scoff - to show contempt by derisive acts or language Merriam-Webster

Take this test to find out:
The next time someone corrects you, no matter who it is, notice your own reaction toward the person who corrected you.
__ You love him for it.
__ You hate him for it.

If you love him, it shows you are a wise person.
If you hate him, you must be a scoffer.

Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Proverbs 9:8

Stop Complaining

2008-11-14T14:52:00.005-06:00

Do you have something you complain about, or feel like complaining about often?

Look for the root and see if it's worry.

Worry means you're not trusting God, or haven't given it to God.
Worry can keep you from taking positive action.

In some distorted way, if we're worrying about it we think we're doing something! hmm.

Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. Psalm 37:8b

Anonymous on Purpose

2008-11-13T16:57:00.003-06:00

Humility is:
Desiring to be anonymous...

...so all credit goes to Jesus.

Servant heart is:
Removing the "I"

Not, "Speak, for I am listening;" but,

"Speak, for your servant is listening."
A servant is defined by who his master is.

Righteousness is:
Perfect obedience...

...in humility

not possible, unless it's Jesus in me

Surrounded

2008-11-05T10:45:00.003-06:00

Psalm 142
With my voice I cry out to the Lord; with my voice I plead for mercy to the Lord.
I pour out my complaint before him; I tell my trouble before him.

When my spirit faints within me, you know my way! In the path where I walk they have hidden a trap for me. Look to the right and see: there is none who takes notice of me; no refuge remains to me; no one cares for my soul.

I cry to you, O Lord; I say, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living."
Attend to my cry, for I am brought very low! Deliver me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me! Bring me out of prison, that I may give thanks to your name!

The righteous will surround me, for you will deal bountifully with me.

Dear Lord, may I and others in Your service be like that, bringing Your hope just by being there.

Seven Times

2008-10-29T09:41:00.003-05:00

Naaman Healed of Leprosy ...and of a prideful heart

2 Kings 5:1-14
In these fourteen verses we see a powerful conversion of a man's heart.

v.9 Naaman came in all his splendor; he came as a "Somebody."
v.10 Elisha didn't treat Naaman as a "Somebody." He gave a simple command and a promise. And he gave it through a messenger.

What Naaman was instructed to do was simple, but it wasn't easy!
A messenger carries the authority of the one who trusted him with the message.

v. 11 Naaman didn't want to obey the servant from the prophet from God. It would mean humbling himself.

He did want a miracle, but he wanted to tell God how to do it.
He wanted to be treated like a "Somebody," and have the prophet wave a magic wand.
He didn't want to make his weakness public.
He didn't want to get in the same mucky water as everybody else. He thought he deserved better. v. 17 ...if I have to wash, why can't I go wash in a better place?

I want you to stop; get off your high horse and go down and wash in the same water as everyone else. And repeat it enough times that your pride will be broken.

v. 13 Naaman, you heard the command but you missed the promise. Didn't you hear, "Wash, and be clean?" Isn't that what you want? Isn't that what you came here for?
v. 14 So Naaman humbled himself and obeyed the simple command; and God rewarded. What the man thought was too hard was really simple.
(When Naaman washed in the Jordan, did he see the real life hurts and ills of others who were there? Did his attitude change from, "God, what can You do for me?" to "So, this is what it's like to be a servant?")

God cared about Naaman's disease, but cared about his heart even more. God knew that seven times in the Jordan would soften Naaman's heart.

Money, prestige, power, position didn't help Naaman receive from God. Humility and obedience did.

Pride almost kept him from a miracle.

You Have Plenty

2008-10-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

time . energy . attentiveness . patience . ability . finances . spouse support . companionship . success . sleep . fame . recognition

The little ______ that you have is enough.

Don't compare with others in the world
What looks like abundance is really of no value, and has no power

The Lord upholds you.

So the little that you have is plenty
You have His power which makes the little ______ that you have sufficient

Better is the little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked. For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous. Psalm 37:16-17

If your heart is right [ righteous], what you do have is better than, and worth more than, millions of buckets of ______ in the hands of many unrighteous ones.

Practice Makes Perfect

2008-10-26T15:40:00.005-05:00

Practice makes perfect. If you practice perfectly, that is.

Life is a rehearsal; but live it like a performance.
Everything you do matters; and how you do it matters.
Pay attention enough to do it right; and then practice that.

Every virtuous choice builds character. One step in the right direction sets you up for the next right step. The more virtuous choices you make, the more you will be able to make.
But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. Proverbs 4:18

Playing a few notes correctly is more beautiful and meaningful than playing all the notes from start to finish without paying attention to proper intonation, rhythm, and tone quality.

God created you with a particular melody in mind, that only you can complete. What melody is the Lord giving you to sing/play?

Learn it well.
Pay attention to what you're doing.
Practice every day.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in our hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:16-17

Open a Door of Faith

2008-10-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Your obedience to speak can be used by God to open a door of faith for others.

see Acts 14:26-27

Dream Come True

2008-10-18T12:32:00.003-05:00

Read the story of Paul and Barnabas at Lystra in Acts 14:8-10

This man had never considered being able to walk.
All he did was listen to Paul speak the message of the gospel. (Acts 14:6-7)
That spoken word was so powerful that it generated extreme faith in this man to the point that he could actually dream of walking!
And it showed on his face.

Paul was just a messenger, speaking what had been given to him.
I want to be that kind of messenger.

STAND UP!
The man obeyed immediately because faith came first.
He sprang up and began walking!

True heart obedience is preceded by faith.
Faith makes real obedience possible.

Be Still

2008-10-17T15:27:00.004-05:00

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. Psalm 37:7a

Be still - damam

Be still..............not moving
Keep silence.....not speaking
Rest..................not working
Stand still.........pause, as in, "Sun, stand still." [from Joshua 10:12-13]

No anxiety, no rush

Wait patiently - chul, chil

Wait carefully
Wait patiently
Wait quietly

God is not moved by:

anxiety, sense of urgency, panic, noise, emotion

God is moved by:

faith, dependence on Him, heart that matches His

A Man after God's Heart

2008-10-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

God found what He was looking for.

God found in David a man after His heart, who would do all His will. (from Acts 13:22)

A man after God's heart is an obedient one who will do all God's will.
Humility: Your will, God, not mine.

David served the purpose of God in his own generation!!! (Acts 13:36)
This could only happen through an obedient heart.

Don't Fret

2008-10-08T10:16:00.004-05:00

God's peace is not disrupted or disturbed by evildoers.

Psalm 37

Fret not!
Fret not yourself because of evildoers; be not envious of wrongdoers! (v. 1)
Fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way; over the man who carries out evil devices (v. 7)
Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. (v. 8)

Do not fret. Instead:
Trust in the Lord and keep doing good (from v. 3)
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will do what only He can do (from v. 5)
Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him (v. 7)
Wait for the Lord in order to inherit the land (from v. 9)
Wait for the Lord and keep His way (v. 34)
Take refuge in the Lord (from v. 40)

Remember:
The Lord knows the days of the blameless, and their heritage will remain forever (v. 18)
The wicked will perish; they will vanish like smoke (from v. 20)
The Lord upholds the hand of the righteous (from v. 24)
The Lord will not forsake His saints (from v. 28)
There is a future for the blameless, upright, and man of peace (from v. 37)
The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord (v. 39)
The Lord helps the righteous and delivers them (from v. 40)

Wasted Money

2008-10-01T13:30:00.001-05:00

Why should a fool have money in his hand to buy wisdom when he has no sense? Proverbs 17:16 ESV

Good question!

NLT puts it like this: It is senseless to pay tuition to educate a fool, since he has no heart for learning.

Wisdom is of no value to one who has no sense.

Prudent Wisdom

2008-09-25T21:25:00.005-05:00

O simple ones, learn prudence; O fools, learn sense. Proverbs 8:5

Prudence: acting with, or showing care and thought for the future.

What I do now makes a difference for later...

hours, days, years, generations later

Prudent actions:

are preparation for later
make a way for ministry
eliminate future distractions
overcome procrastination

Prudent actions come from a prudent mindset.

Past, Present, Future are all important.
Fully live in the present by
learning from the past,
and aiming for the future

Past cannot change
Present is change
Future results from change

Prudence is knowing what can wait and what shouldn't.
Prudence is knowing what to do and what not to do.
Prudence is being aware of the times.

I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion. Proverbs 8:12
I want to live there with wisdom and her sister, prudence.

Brilliant Sunrise

2008-09-16T07:12:00.004-05:00

On my walk this morning, I stood still for a few moments to watch a stunningly brilliant sunrise take over the eastern sky with dazzling color. I was mesmerized. Surely this is a visual snapshot of God's glory that reaches into our human understanding.

I Can't Do That

2008-09-10T10:52:00.002-05:00

1 Kings 18:1-16 Elijah Confronts Ahab, with Obadiah as the Middle Man

Obadiah was minding his own business, doing his job for the king, when Elijah ran into him.
Elijah the prophet gave Obadiah an assignment: Go tell King Ahab I'm here.
Obadiah's response: I can't; I'm afraid; I'll be killed. [If I tell the king you're here and then he can't find you, I'll be executed.]

Did Elijah admonish Obadiah for saying, "I can't?" No.
How did Elijah respond to Obadiah's admission of fear and excuses? He gave a promise from God.
"As the Lord of hosts lives, before whom I stand, I will surely show myself to him [Ahab] today."
I will show up. You do your part, and then God will take over to do the rest.

So Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him. 1 Kings 18:16

I can't turns to obedience when we hear God's promise. I can because He Is.

Nothing Left to Give

2008-09-04T10:20:00.004-05:00

1 Kings 17:8-16 The Widow of Zarephath

"Arise, go to Zarephath, ...I [the Lord] have commanded a widow there to feed you [Elijah]." 1 Kings 17:9
(Previously, the Lord had commanded ravens to feed Elijah. 1 Kings 17:4)

God commanded the widow to give something she didn't have. She was willing to give what she did have - water.
"Bring me a little water in a vessel, that I may drink." And as she was going to bring it, ..."Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand." And she said, "...I have nothing baked, only a handful of flour in a jar...I [intend to] go in and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die." 1 Kings 17:10-12
How could she be asked to give what she needed for her own survival and her son's survival? She was depleted; there was no excess to give.

Hearing God's promise gave her the faith to obey. 1 Kings 17:13-14

Do not fear
Obey God first by giving to the prophet
Then, go take care of yourself
God will take care of you with unending food

And she went and did as Elijah said. And she and he and her household ate for many days. The jar of flour was not spent, neither did the jug of oil become empty... 1 Kings 17:15-16

When the widow gave away what she needed for herself and her family, God supernaturally provided for all.

Productive and Successful

2008-09-03T11:52:00.003-05:00

Am I being productive?

It's not about productivity.
It's about doing what the Holy Spirit says.
God measures my faithfulness, not my success.

For a man's ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and He ponders all his paths. Proverbs 5:21

Lord, I want to live fully the life that You've imagined for me.

Here I Am, God!

2008-08-26T16:08:00.003-05:00

Acts 9:1-22
Jesus' first commands to Saul:

Rise and enter the city

Wait to be told what to do next

Saul obeyed while blind.

He had to be led by the hand - humbled.
He waited for three dark days, with no food or drink
During the three days, he was praying, and he saw a vision from God (while he was blind)

Ananias was a man who was ready to obey God, "Here I am!"
God's command to Ananias:

Rise and go to a house

Find Saul

Ananias, "I need to know this is You, God, because the risk is great."
God repeated His command.

"Here's the reason why"

Ananias obeyed

He went to the house and found Saul
He layed hands on Saul 1) to regain sight; 2) to be filled with the Holy Spirit

Result was immediate transformation of Saul

Regained sight
Was baptized
Was strengthened
Spent time with disciples of Jesus
Proclaimed Jesus as Son of God
Amazed all who heard him
Increased in strength
Proved Jesus was the Christ
Enemies became friends
Friends became enemies

The obedience of one man, Ananias, had far-reaching effects that went beyond what he could possibly see or comprehend. It moved the course of history to fit God's agenda.

I Don't Have Time

2008-08-17T17:17:00.006-05:00

Who are you working for?
What are you working on?

1 Kings 7:13-51

7:45 Now all the pots, the shovels, and the basins, all these vessels in the house of the Lord, which Hiram made for King Solomon, were of burnished bronze.
7:48 So Solomon made all the vessels that were in the house of the Lord: the golden altar, the golden table for the bread of the Presence...

A servant's work is attributed to his master.

Therefore, every detail had to be exact and perfect. The king's name would be on it. (7:48-50)
Everything assigned needed to be finished.
7:40 ...So Hiram finished all the work that he did for King Solomon on the house of the Lord.

Did Hiram have time to get side-tracked doing other things?
Probably not. His specific job was big. There was no room for side jobs. (7:40-44, 48-50)

The king chose someone suited to the work. (7:14)

Hiram was the son of a widow. Did he start his trade at a young age to support the family?
His father had been a bronze worker.
He was full of wisdom, understanding, and skill for making any work in bronze.

The king sent and brought Hiram to himself. (7:13)
Hiram came to the king and did all his work. (7:14)

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved... Colossians 3:12

Do everything as one of His chosen ones.

Who was Hiram working for? King Solomon.

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:23-24

Do all your work heartily because you are working for the Lord, not men.

You are serving The Lord Christ.

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:17

My time does not belong to me.

This is not about perfection and doing everything right. It is about walking by the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Jesus, the one and only perfect One.

This is not about ministry work and church work. It is about life. Doing the things you were put on this earth to do. Praying with people, helping a lost person find their way, doing laundry, putting dinner on the table, leading a Moms In Touch group, smiling at the grocery clerk. It is about going to the Lord to find out what those things are for the seasons in your life, for your lifetime.

Hiram knew his gifts. He grew up with them; and seeing his father as a bronze worker probably instilled in him an appreciation for and an enjoyment of the craft. The king called Hiram to do the very thing Hiram knew best.

As a servant of Christ, my time does not belong to me. It belongs to the one I'm serving. I get to serve with joy, because He has called me to do the very things for which He has prepared me and for which He has gifted me.

As I trust Christ, His power goes in my efforts to produce His outcome.
Fear of failure points to trusting my power for my efforts for my outcome, with my name on it.

Galatians 5

...through the Spirit, by faith...
...walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
...if you are led by the Spirit...
...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control...
If we live by the Spirit, let s also walk by the Spirit

I must walk by the Spirit. That means moment-by-moment listening and obedience.
Hiram didn't have that advantage.
We have grace.

Righteous, Part V

2008-08-17T16:51:00.006-05:00

God is True and Righteous
God is Holy

"Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. All nations will come and worship You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed." Revelation 15:4

God alone is holy
All will worship Him
His righteous acts have been revealed!

Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, "Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and exult and give Him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His Bride has made herself ready; it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure"--for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints. And the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb" And he said to me, "These are the true words of God." Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, "You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God." For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Revelation 19:6-10

The Bride was given what she didn't earn
Bright and pure, fine linen to clothe herself
So she could marry The Lamb

Worship God alone!

Lord Jesus, take off my polluted garments. I lift my hands to be clothed with Your linen. Amen.

Righteous, Part IV

2008-08-16T21:04:00.004-05:00

The only way to live righteously is to walk by the Spirit.

...By sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:3-4

Righteous: Walk according to the Spirit, not the flesh.

...our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers. 1 Thessalonians 1:5, 2:10

Shown in righteous behavior:

Word
Power
Spirit
Conviction

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit. 1 Peter 3:18

The Righteous One brings us to God so we can be alive in the Spirit.

Righteous, Part III

2008-08-12T16:50:00.003-05:00

Obedience

Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:18-21

Jesus' act of righteousness - obedience - opened the possibility for all men to receive God's grace for justification and eternal life.

You meet him who joyfully works righteousness, those who remember You in Your ways. Behold, You were angry, and we sinned; in our sins we have been a long time, and shall we be saved? We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away. Isaiah 64:5-6

My own efforts to do good, my righteous deeds, are like polluted garments, soiled and stinky. And we wear them with pride and try to show them off. Yuck.

No man is righteous. All are under the power of sin.

What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, as it is written: "None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one." Romans 3:9-12

The fool says in his heart, ""There is no God." They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none who does good. The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one. Psalm 14:1-3 [and Psalm 53:1-3]

Is there any hope for mankind?

Righteous, Part II

2008-08-10T15:08:00.004-05:00

God is Righteous.
He always does good, and never sins.

Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins. Ecclesiastes 7:20

There is no righteous man on earth.
Sin cancels out your righteous deeds.

Out of the anguish of His soul [was this the agony of Gethsemane?] He shall see [is that when He could see clearly God's will and purpose?] and be satisfied; by His knowledge shall the Righteous One, My Servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and He shall bear their iniquities. Isaiah 53:11
My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 1 John 2:1

Your iniquities were in the way of you being righteous on your own.
Our sin necessitates an advocate with the Father who is righteous.

God is Righteous

The standard for what is right
Everything good and pure
No wrong, no sin, no evil, no flaw or blemish
Perfection
No ugliness
Righteousness speaks of Majesty and Authority

Jesus is Righteousness

Righteous, Part I

2008-07-22T10:25:00.008-05:00

God is True.

Truth is the foundation of Righteousness.

For our transgressions are multiplied before you, and our sins testify against us; for our transgressions are with us, and we know our iniquities; transgressing, and denying the Lord, and turning back from following our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart lying words.

Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away; for truth has stumbled in the public squares, and uprightness cannot enter.

Truth is lacking, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.

Isaiah 59:12-15

When truth is lost or hidden, there can be no righteousness.

God is True

Real
Faithful (like a true friend)
No pretense
Always true to who He is
Jesus is Truth (the way, the truth, the life)
All truth points/leads to God
No falsehood. None. Ever.
The One, Only True God

Looking Up

2008-07-17T16:21:00.005-05:00

Where are you looking?

To You I lift up my eyes, O You who are enthroned in the heavens!
Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maidservant to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till He has mercy upon us. Psalm 123:1-2

As obedient servants, our eyes are on our Master to watch for His slightest gesture.

To know immediately what He wants, so we can respond quickly.
To receive His mercy, His help and provision, to meet our most critical needs. We know it comes only from Him.

We do not want to miss His command or His mercy. We want to be ready for it.