soul thoughts...

Judges 6:25-32 "Take a Stand"

2011-07-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

"Tear down your father's altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. Then build a proper kind of altar to the Lord your God on the top of this height." ~Judges 6:25-26

Gideon's family had taken to worshiping foreign gods, and God wanted Gideon to do something about it. He must tear their altars down and build new ones to the one, true God. Gideon did it, but he was so afraid of what his family would think, he tore them down at night. He still had some growing to do in his trust of God, but he was experiencing a very real human fear of rejection for his beliefs and for following God's ways.

We're experiencing the same things today. We're not tearing down Asherah poles -- at least I haven't lately. But there are other altars that have been built into our lives that we must tear down and replace with the altar of the one, true God. Maybe we have allowed the god of complacency to enter into our lives. Or the deceiver. What about laziness or anger. Maybe it's a person who is taking all our time and thoughts. Maybe an activity or hobby. Sometimes very innocuous activities that in and of themselves are fine can begin to take a top drawer position in our priorities. There are all kinds of "gods" we allow to take over our lives and maybe we don't even realize it is happening. But when we allow those things to creep in, we are slowing and surely, pushing God aside.

Our God is a jealous God. He does not take being replaced lightly. The very first commandment God gave to Moses was, "You shall have no other gods before me." (Exodus 20:3) Too often we hear that and think, "Well, I don't worship other gods. I worship just God. I go to church; I pray to God." But whenever we place anyone or anything above God in our hearts, we are worshiping that person or thing. God must take top priority in our lives -- in all our thoughts, actions, motives, emotions, decisions..... He wants to be in every part of our being. And if he isn't, He will encourage us to tear down the altars and build the right one.

He may demand our respect and attention, but it is for our own good. If He is not Lord of our life, if anything else steps in the place where He belongs, we are choosing a path that is outside of His will. It may be unpopular, but we must take a stand. He will be Lord with or without me. I choose to stand with Him.

Further Thoughts:

Do you stand for God and His truth, or are you letting other things take priority?
What causes us to veer away from standing firmly with God?
How can we prevent straying from placing God first in our life?
What price do I need to pay to stand with God? Am I willing?

Father, I believe it is going to get harder and harder to stand with You. The world's philosophy is like a giant magnet enticing me to attach and conform. But my heart remains with You. Keep me close, Father. Even though it may be difficult, help me to stand in Your truth and as Your servant. Amen.

Judges 6:23-24 "Death Cannot Hold Me Down"

2011-07-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

"But the Lord said to him, 'Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die.' So Gideon built an altar to the Lord there and called it The Lord is Peace. To this day it stands in Ophrah of the Abiezrites." ~Judges 6:23-24 NIV

I'm not exactly sure what the Israelites thought would happen to them after they died. I guess I've never really thought about it before. As I look back at each of the patriarchs' deaths there seems to be a finality to death. The most important part of their death was where their bones were buried.

And then Jesus came and everything changed. He gave us hope of eternity with Him in a place He is preparing for us. Yet we still fret for our safety. Of course there is a natural and understandable human desire to live a long life with people you love around you. We find no joy in suffering or pain. Again I say, of course. But there is so much more to not fear.

How much time do we spend fretting about our loved ones and our own safety? Look at how much time and money is spent on crash reports, helmets, five-point harness car seats. Now hear me, those things are all fine and good. I certainly don't have a death wish for myself or my loved ones. But I think we have become so bubble conscious that it has just put a greater fear of death into our psyche. We, as believers, do not have to fear death because a greater life than we have ever known is waiting for us. This life is like going away to college. We are living in temporary housing in a far away place. It's restrictive and in miniature. It has its joys and sorrows, ups and downs. We work; we increase our knowledge of people and the world, but it's not our real home. That is still on the horizon. And we should have no fear of it.

In this passage, God is reassuring Gideon that he is not going to die in the conflict with the Midianites. So Gideon builds an altar and calls it The Lord is Peace. We've also been assured that we are not going to "die" in the battle. We will just move on from this life to an eternal home. In the meantime, we continue to lift up praise to the Father and rest in His peace.

Further Thoughts:

Are you afraid of death? Why?
How does your fear hinder you from accomplishing all that God has for you in this life?
Find a Scripture to hang on to when you have the most fear.

Father, I'm only passing through. Teach me how to be wise and safe, but not live in fear of death. I anticipate the end of the troubles of this world and look forward to eternity with You. In the meantime, use me up right here, Lord of Peace. Amen.

Judges 6:11-24 "I'm Not Capable"

2011-07-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

"But Lord," Gideon asked, "how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family." ~Judges 6:15 NIV

Recently, I was watching an episode of Extreme Makeover Home Edition (ABC). They told the story of a young girl who had a terrible disease. (Let's call her Annie.) While she was in the hospital, she made friends with another little girl who was battling cancer. (We'll call her, Liz.) Annie felt so badly for Liz and what she was going through, she decided to do something about it. This little girl went out and started raising money for cancer research. Annie raised hundreds of dollars and remained friends with Liz. Even years later when the show went in to build Annie a new house, she was in the middle of a project making key chains to sell for cancer research.

How many times when God calls us to do something do we say, "I can't." "I'm not trained." "I don't have enough money." "I'm too young." "I'm from the weakest tribe and am the least in my family." Gideon had given up before he even began, and here's why. He started from the lie that so many people get caught up in -- God only uses the strong and the capable. Actually, it's quite the opposite.

Look at how many times God uses the weakest of the weak -- some real weaknesses and some perceived. Moses (speech impedement), Joseph (second from the youngest of 12 and made a slave in a foreign country), David (a boy facing a giant), Ruth (a young widow from the wrong family), Rahab (a prostitute), Peter, James and John (fishermen that changed the world). You see, although God wants us to develop our gifts and talents, go to school, train up in our positions, He also wants us to understand that the real power comes from him alone. All we must do is be willing to let Him work through us. There is nothing God can't do with a person possessing a willing spirit. Slaves can be freed; nations fed, and giants defeated. Gideon was just another person falling into the trap of self deprecation believing that God can only use the strong. But he was wrong and God changed the history of the Israelites through Gideon.

What are you facing that God has asked you to do, and yet you feel unworthy to do it? Me? I'm in the middle of writing a manuscript. The deadline is looming, and I'm really not sure I have anything to say that anyone would want to read. And truthfully, I'm right. But God has something to say. If I am open to Him and willing to let Him use me, great things can come out of this book. In our weakness, He is made strong.

Further Thoughts:

What is God calling you to do in which you feel completely incapable of doing?
What specifically do you need from God to make it happen? List the ones you know and trust Him for the ones you don't know you need.
What are you doing right now in your own strength?
What lies have you been believing?
How do we practically allow God to work through us?

Father, forgive me for trying to work your miracles for You. Of course, I failed. Use me, Lord. Give me Your strength, Your creativity, Your words. You know what you want to accomplish through me. I trust You to do it. Amen.

Judges 6:1-6:10 "Sorry, I Forgot....Again"

2011-07-01T11:25:00.001-07:00

"I snatched you from the power of Egypt and from the hand of all your oppressors. I drove them from before you and gave them your land." ~Judges 6:9 (NIV)

Here, once again, the Israelites did evil in God's eyes and the Midianites swooped in. For seven years God's chosen suffered under a foreign oppressor. It finally got so bad that they cried out to God for help -- again. This time, God didn't just rescue them, but reminded them of where He had brought them from and their disobedience to Him. Thus, they are suffering.

When I read this passage, two questions popped into my mind. 1) Why are we so forgetful? 2) Is there a way to break the cycle of forgetfulness?

All of life is filled with peaks and valleys. We experience them in our marriages, our jobs, our weight, our moods, our exercise plans, our bank accounts. So is it just inevitable that we will have peaks and valleys in our spiritual walk? Probably. My daughter, Gabby, was just at youth camp. She said that the speaker, Matt, gave a great final sermon on coming down from the mountain top that they had been on all week -- both physically and spiritually. Gabby summarized it this way, "You can't keep the high, but Jesus can keep you in the lows." With sin, pain, and disappointment in the world, we are going to experiences many highs and lows. But we serve the King and have His Spirit living within us. There must be a way to minimize those lows that cause spiritual forgetfulness. I need to be able to face the next mountain I need to climb by remembering how God enabled me to conquer the last mountain. And the one before that. And the one before that.

Here are some ways I know I can remember:

1. Stay in the Word and Prayer!!! If I become slack and don't maintain regular times alone with the Lord, I drift in my thinking and attitudes. It's like checking the rope daily to be sure the boat is connected to the dock. If you don't, wind, rain, and the pounding waves will loosen that rope and the boat will drift away. I need clear rope-checking time every day.

2. Faith Journal. I have not been good about keeping this and need to do better. When I just stop and think for a while about my life and the things God has brought me through, I am completely overwhelmed by His faithfulness. I have so to speak been rescued from Egypt; I have faced plague and famine; I have met up with opposing armies at insurmountable odds. God has worked in my life, and I must remember His power that can conquer any obstacle I face and trust the He will be there again. But to do so, I must stop and remember. Quiet reflection time is difficult to find with jobs, families, responsibilities. But floundering in the insecurity of facing battles without power is so much worse. All I have to do is remember and believe.

3. Keep myself accountable. I'm a list maker. If I don't, I will not remember. Already this week I double booked myself because I didn't write down the first commitment. Maybe I need some more vitamins or possibly shock therapy, but I just do not have a good memory. Used to; but time has robbed me. In the same way as I use lists to keep track of my "to do's," I need accountability to keep track of my spiritual walk. I have my husband and one main female accountability partner, but then I am also in an accountability group. Those regular meetings help keep my mind on God's activity in the world today. I am constantly reminded through those ladies of God's power at work in and through every day people, and it builds my faith and attentiveness to His plan.

4. Run from sin. If I am doing #1-3, this one is so much easier to accomplish. Because I spend time with my loving Father, I want to obey Him. Because I remember His faithfulness in the past, I don't want to hinder Him working in and through me in the future. And because I am accountable to several people, I have fellow warriors fighting through the battle with me and I am made stronger.

I know I am going to face times of doubt and fear. I know that I will sometimes start up a mountain with trepidation. But I will push through because I have safeguards in place to make me stronger. I never want to forget again -- He is always with me.

Further Thoughts:
1. When have you forgotten and what were the consequences?
2. Do you really want to be there again? Why or why not?
3. What's your plan to not forget God's faithfulness?
4. Who are you going to ask to hold you accountable?

Father, we are frail and weak, but that is no excuse for forgetting your amazing grace and faithfulness. Empower our minds to remember, Lord, and help us develop daily habits of remaining focused on You and the goal -- to run the race well in Your strength and power.

Judges 2:15-3:6 "He Means It, Part 2"

2011-06-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

"Because this nation has violated the covenant that I laid down for their forefathers and has not listened to me, I will no longer drive out before them any of the nations Joshua left when he died. I will use them to test Israel and see whether they will keep the way of the Lord and walk in it as their forefathers did." ~Judges 2:20b-22

Every disobedience has a consequence. As children, when we would disobey our parents, we were disciplined. As an adult in the workplace and in life in general we still face consequences and may be reprimanded or even fired for not following instructions. You break the law; you face the courts. You abuse your body, you suffer health problems. The list goes on and on. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. (Isaac Newton) We can't expect to live any way we want without facing the results of our actions. Yet that is precisely what the Israelites chose to do.

Here God had given into their hands a beautiful home to call their own. All they had to do was take it and destroy the pagan worship that existed there. Along the way, He even provided a new kind of leadership to help them move forward. After Joshua died, the leadership were the elders of each of the tribes. So God provided judges to preside over all the people and give guidance. Yet they ignored them and "prostituted themselves to other gods and worshiped them." (2:17b) So what was their consequence for breaking covenant with God? He did not give them victory over their enemies. They had to live among those with the foreign gods and they had to battle their enemies. God was not going to pave the way for them. It's kind of like a parent practicing tough love. As a parent, we can make the way easy for our children. But if they choose to not obey our instructions and/or the rules of our home, then we can let them fend for themselves so to speak. It's taking the easy road or the difficult one. It's their choice.

It seems that God has two levels of obedience. (Hear me out. This isn't heresy.) One is foundational and mandated. The ten commandments for one. Very clear "rules" that we are to follow. Some may call them rigid and restricting, but they are for our own good. I would equate it to God telling the Israelites to get rid of all foreign gods and worship Him alone. That is a basic precept -- to have no other God's before Him. He also gave them judges to rule and instructed that those He places in authority over you should be respected and obeyed. Another basic precept. Yet the Israelites chose to ignore the judges and suffered the anger of God. Disobedience of God's instructions can have dire consequences in our lives and should not be taken lightly.

The second level of disobedience is the daily guidance by the Holy Spirit. It's those times that we know the Spirit is prompting us to do something....like visit a sick friend. Or do something kind for a stranger. Maybe it's confronting a friend on sin in their life. Or removing something from your own life that in and of itself is innocuous but that has hindered you having healthy relationships - with God and others. These are not necessarily sins against God's edicts, but they are hindering you and others from His full blessings. Jesus told us He would send a Counselor to guide us. When we choose to ignore that guidance, we are missing out on a much fuller life than we have now. And continually disobeying those promptings could eventually lead us down a path of greater disobedience, compromise, and sin.

Whether we can see the big picture or not, when God says something, He means it. We must make the decision whether we are going to trust Him and accept His full counsel or not. The results of our choices are consequences or blessings. He has given you the right to choose.

Further Thoughts:

Are there foundational laws that God has established that you are willfully disobeying? Confess those sins now and make a 180 degree turn from them. He will forgive you.
Are there blessings that you are missing out on because you choose not to follow God's promptings? Why are you ignoring Him?
Can you trust God? Why or why not?
Are you experiencing consequences of your sin? If so, recognize that God can use them for good. (Read 3:1-4 and stand up to the challenge.)

Father, I want everything you have for me in my life. I want to be a blessing to You and to others. Forgive me for the laws I have broken. I sinned against You. And forgive me for the times I ignored your Spirit's promptings. I made others and myself miss out on Your blessings. Lord, I want to do better as Your servant. I accept the consequences to my choices and trust You completely. You are my God and You alone. Amen.

Judges 1-2:15 "He Means It, Part 1"

2011-06-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

"I will never break my covenant with you, and you shall not make a covenant with the people of this land, but you shall break down their altars. Yet you have disobeyed me." Judges 2:1b-2a NIV

When God brought the Israelite people to the promised land, He told them to take the land and destroy the idols of those who live there. But they disobeyed. They allowed many of the Canaanites to remain there and over time, their way of life and their idol worship seeped into the lives of the Canaanites. The poison will always try to take over the healthy tissue and that is exactly what happened to the body of Israelites. By not obeying God's commands, they had allowed the evil He had commanded them to get rid of to become a part of their culture.

How often does God tell us to remove something from our lives and we don't do it? Maybe it's a bad habit; maybe it is spending time with someone who is a bad influence on us. Sometimes even innocuous activities can become an obstacle. We can allow watching or playing sports or participating in a hobby to become our obsession and distract us from where God wants us to focus. If He says to remove that habit, activity, or even thought process from our lives, we need to be obedient to that. We may feel like what we are doing is innocent and think that surely God would not ask me to give that up, but He does.

I am fascinated with the Amish. They are completely committed to simplicity, plainness, and devotion to God. They are huge on family and their community in helping one another daily. They live off the land and the distractions of the modern world are forbidden from their lives. Now one area they lack is being evangelistic about their love of God. They have completely isolated themselves from living out Matthew 28:19-20. However, we, in the world, have gone completely the other direction. How much have we allowed the world to infiltrate our lives and water-down the gospel? Have we compromised our testimony to the point of impotency? Do we "look" any different from the non-believers we live among and are supposed to be sharing Christ with?

Surely there is a happy middle ground between isolationism and compromise. Finding how to live "in the world and not of it" is a daily battle we must wage. This can only be accomplished through a constant communion with the Father and obedience to His directives. If he says something must be removed, then we need to remove it. If he says we are to go, then we need to go. God loves us and wants His very best for us. Therefore, if He says it, He means it. Our job is to obey. (Tomorrow, part 2, the consequences of disobedience.)

Further Thoughts:

Is there some area of your life that you have allowed the world to infiltrate and God is telling you to get rid of it?
What obstacles stand in the way of obedience? How do we overcome them?
Do you truly believe God's motivation for his commands in our lives is because He loves us or is He just an Almighty Tyrant? (Honestly think through this answer.)

Father, sometimes I don't understand why you require certain things from me. I feel strong enough in my faith in such a way that they will not interfere with my walk. But I want to live in complete obedience to You. So help me to let go of that which is hindering me from being everything You want me to be. I want to be your devoted servant and that can only happen through absolute obedience. I love you and thank you for loving me. Amen.

Judges 1:1-2 "Always Ask First"

2011-06-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

¹After Joshua died, the Israelites asked the LORD, "Which tribe should attack the Canaanites first?"²The LORD answered, "Judah, for I have given them victory over the land." ~Judges 1:1-2 NLT

I have decided to tackle my first Old Testament book. The Old Testament is the history of the Israelite people and God's first covenant with man. Therefore, it can be difficult to glean practical lessons from listings of laws, battles, and prophesies. So I won't be going verse by verse in this study. However, there are many, many valuable lessons to be learned from the journey this amazing nation took to get where God wanted them as His chosen people. And, of course, God stopped me in my reading at verse 2.

Here the Israelites have just lost their beloved leader, Joshua, who had finally gotten them into the promised land after many years of wandering through the desert. Now they are faced with a dilemna -- how to remove the Canaanites from the land God has told them they are to live in. They immediately ask the Lord who should lead the charge, and He answers, "(The tribe of) Judah is to go...." Why is that significant?

What struck me was the fact that they immediately sought God's leading. How often do we face an obstacle and immediately stop and seek God's direction? Now may we may often do so in very large decisions or trials in our lives. We may ask for His direction in finding a job or asking for healing from a major illness or accident. And this is what the Israelites did. They sought God for a very big task at hand. And this is a good thing. I certainly do not want to take a job without knowing I am going where God wants me to be. And if I or a member of my family is facing a life-threatening illness, I am certainly going to claim healing in the name of Jesus. But what about all the other times....

How many times a day do I need to seek God's direction and don't? He desires to abide in every aspect of your life -- not just in the big decision or major crisis. Of course He wants you to seek Him in the "big" matters of life. But He is not just some super hero or mega-doctor. He is our Father who desires a relationship that is involved in every situation, every choice, every action of our life. He left His Holy Spirit here with us to maintain a running dialogue throughout our day -- guiding each step we take. Without His constant direction, I will be prone to selfish decisions and will miss out on amazing God-filled opportunities. I must connect with Him to begin each of my days, and then maintain that connection until I lay my head on the pillow at night. Without His guidance, I exist. With it, I live purposefully in His will. That is where I want to remain.

Further Thoughts:

Do you just seek God's guidance in "big" moments of your life? Why?
Do you think God doesn't really care about this "little" parts of your life? If so, read Psalm 139.
What can you do to open that running dialogue connection with God in the morning?
How do you maintain the connection throughout the day?
How do we hear God's voice?
What big and small decisions do you need to take some concentrated alone time with Him to seek his guidance for? When will you do that?

Father, forgive me for the days I try to guide my own steps and only look to you for the "big" stuff. I need you every moment of every day because by myself, I will mess everything up. Holy Spirit, direct my steps today. I want to say what you would have me to say, to think what you would have me to think. To go and do what you would have me to do. And to remain in Your presence moment by moment. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Thankful in the rain

2011-03-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

I'm breaking out of my usual blogging pattern today because, well, it's Thursday, and it's very wet and windy outside. And as I sit here and listen to "Hurricane Helga" pound on my windows and my patio furniture, I could easily slip into a funk and get nothing done or roll over and take a nap. Rainy days -- especially several in a row -- can really get me down.

But I'm not going to do that. And here's why. My circumstances (or the weather) are not going to dictate my attitude or state of mind. (Yes, I'm stubborn that way.) So I'm going to flip the coin over and see what is on the other side.

Thankfulness:

I'm thankful for the rain because we in Northern California need the rain, those in the mountains need the snow for skiing and for the Spring melt. Southern California needs us to get rain so we can supply them through the summer months. And my roses love it.

I'm thankful for my home. God has blessed us beyond anything we deserve with a home that keeps us warm and dry. And for my metal patio cover that allows me to hear the rain as a soothing ping, ping ping.

I'm thankful for my family because in bad weather and in good, they love me through it all.

I'm thankful for friends to share a cup of coffee with, or an email, or a text message. No matter what storms are brewing, we're connected.

I'm thankful for my vehicle so I don't have to walk out in the rainy cold to do what I need to do today. And I don't need to pump gasoline.

I'm thankful for a full pantry on multiple levels, but especially so I don't have to lug groceries through the rain today.

I'm thankful for the rain knocking the blossoms off the fruitless pear trees and thus shortening my horrible allergies.

I'm thankful for my nephew, Austin. (Because today is his 18th birthday;)

I'm thankful for rainbows, and the promise that comes with them.

Even when the rain pours and the wind howls, I can still be thankful because I know that up above the dismal gray clouds, the sun is shining. And someday very soon, I'll see the sun again.... And then I'll need to remember to be thankful for the sun.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
~1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Further Thoughts:

What are you thankful for today?
What do you need to do to remind yourself to be thankful in difficult situations?
Have you been a friend to someone today? Remember, it may be raining where they live, and they need to hear your words of encouragement.

Dear Father, the weather or my life may not always be sunshiny and cloudless, but I know you see me in the rain and will not let it overtake me. Thank You for your blessings and love so abundant in my life.

John 3:16 We are redeemed by Love

2011-03-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ~John 3:16

Because sin had separated us from fellowship with the Father, His greatest act of love was to redeem us. He gave His only Son – sacrificed Him to a painful death – so that all sin could be atoned for and by grace we are renewed to be able to once again stand in His presence. But it doesn’t stop there.

God’s love daily permeating our lives gives us the opportunity to have communion with each other. Christ did not leave us alone when He returned to heaven. He gave us His Spirit to live in us. But He also gave us the fellowship of other believers. Living in the power of that love for one another drives us to reach out even more. We are given a support system to face the struggles and temptations that attack daily. We have loved ones around us to encourage, admonish, and guide our steps. The body is God’s love in action.

Further Thoughts:

How has God redeemed your life? Where were you and where are you now spiritually?
In what ways are you continuing to work on that love relationship that He paid such a high price for?
Read Acts 2:42-47 and Hebrews 10:25. How are believers to relate to one another?
What changes do you need to make to live a stronger love relationship with fellow believers?

Father, thank You for Your sacrifice. Help me to make the most of our relationship and my fellowship with other believers. Amen.

1 Corinthians 13:3 Nothing I give will matter.

2011-03-10T09:44:00.000-08:00

If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames but have not love, I gain nothing. ~1 Corinthians 13:3

Many people believe that they can give more money or take on more responsibilities that eat up their time to make a difference. The problem with that philosophy is that it is centered in the “I” not in the “them” mentality. Even taking a seemingly pure concept executed with the wrong motives negates the power of the act. The action is not taken for the purpose of meeting another human being’s need. It is not taking into consideration another person’s feelings, sadness, or despair and trying to relieve their pain. Acts done for self- promotion are empty, selfish movements in the eyes of the Almighty.

The actions that make a difference are in giving out of pure love. Giving of money to someone because they desperately need it done completely out of love for them and not to elevate your status in their eyes. Giving of your time to an event so others can experience more love or help is giving out of a God-centered heart. Even giving of yourself to sacrifice for Christ must be done not as a holier-than-thou pious act, but done out of true love for your Savior. We walk a fine line as human beings to act out of love and not out of selfishness. But the pure heart is the heart God seeks.

Further Thoughts:

How did Christ demonstrate a pure heart and pure motives with His life?
Is your present giving – whether money, time, or actions – done out of love or for self-satisfaction? Explain.
What needs to change in your life to give out of love?

Father, make me conscious moment by moment that my motives are not selfish, but from a heart of pure love. Amen.

I Cor. 13:1-2 Nothing I say, know, believe, or accomplish will matter.

2011-03-08T14:47:00.000-08:00

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. ~1 Corinthians 13:1-2

Every man and woman desires to live his or her life to mean something. They are looking for a life of significance – one that makes a difference. But too often what they end up actually pursuing is a life of success. There’s a big difference between the two. We can be successful in our educational endeavors or our careers by man’s standards. We may have thoughts that stump the greatest minds. You may have several degrees or make a lot of money. You may have hundreds of people who answer to you and be judged successful by the world. But even with all that, you still may not be living a life of significance.

How we love is how we will determine the mark we will make on our world – at least any mark that matters. God says that we can try and try to make a difference, but the only difference He cares about is through how we love. Love is where life truly and significantly happens.

Further Thoughts:

In what ways was Christ’s life unsuccessful but was significant?
What are you pursuing – success or significance? How is your life living that out?
How do you love God and others? Are you building significance into your life? If no, what needs to change?
Find other passages of Scripture that show us that significance is measured by love.

Lord, I want my life to make a difference in the way You would want. Teach me to love for significance. Amen.

1 Corinthians 13:13-14:1 The New Community Defined By Love

2011-02-10T14:25:00.000-08:00

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. ~1 Corinthians 13:13-14:1

The word “love” has lost so much of its true meaning. Movies, television, and reduced societal moral values has lowered the meaning to lust, like, even tolerate. But that is not the design of the word used in 1 Corinthians. God’s love is an absolute love – one that “never fails.” It’s a love not for what you can do for me in return, but one of just because you are you.

Unconditional love is not something seen very often today. We don’t even see it in every situation between a parent and a child – which you’d expect. We certainly don’t see it consistently in marriages. On rare occasions we see love demonstrated through heroic acts of sacrifice, but those are few in comparison. So to completely understand what true love is and how to live that way in community with God and others, we can only look to the love God designed and Jesus lived out. That is true love and the most important foundation to community.

Further Thoughts:

What has been your experience with love? Give examples.
Have you ever known unconditional love from another human being?
Do you believe unconditional love is possible for mankind?
How can we live in true love for those around us? What needs to change in our thought process and actions?

Father, I don’t know how to truly love You and others except by Your example and through Your Spirit within me. Fill me with more love. Amen.

Isaiah 55:11 Returning to the Original Plan

2011-02-04T10:45:00.000-08:00

… so is my word that goes out from my mouth; I will not return to me empty but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. ~Isaiah 55:11

God did not offer salvation just to forgive us, but because He desires to have a relationship with us. He wants to redeem us from our sinful way of life and return us to His first design. This world as we know it is not the original plan. Sin, selfishness, greed, hate – these were not in God’s blueprints. We have allowed these distortions to destroy God’s original intent.

But now because of Christ’s sacrifice and the continuing work of the Holy Spirit through God’s Word, we can be in relationship with the Almighty once again. When we set in motion a plan to follow Him, study and meditate on His Word, live as Christ lived, we are mentored by His Spirit to live a transformed life. That growing, vibrant person can be in an active relationship with the Creator of the universe. That was the original plan.

Further Thoughts:

Are you living a transformed life that God can be in relationship with? If no, why not?
In a concordance, look up the word “redeemed.” What does God’s Word say about it?
To remain consistently in the Word, we all need a plan of action. What’s yours?
What accountability will you put in place to remain faithful to your plan? You don’t have to do this alone.

Father, I so want to have a relationship with You. Thank You for Your redeeming love that continues to transform my life back to the original plan. Amen.

Hebrews 4:12 - SOAP

2010-11-08T15:52:00.000-08:00

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. ~Hebrews 4:12

In Wayne Cordero’s book Divine Mentor he says that people are always asking him to mentor them. He always says, “Sure. Meet me at this coffee house from 6:30 – 7:30 a.m.” How does the pastor of a church of 20,000 mentor everyone who asks? Here’s how he does it.

Whoever shows up follows Pastor Cordero’s SOAP plan. “S” (Scripture) – for 20 minutes they all read the same passage silently. “O” (Observation), “A” (Application), and “P” (Prayer) – for 20 minutes they silently write down what God is teaching them from that passage. They write out everything they observe from the teaching. Then they write how they can apply the truths to their own lives. Lastly, they write out a prayer asking God for help in living out these truths in their lives.

The attendees finally each read aloud to the rest of the group what they wrote down. You may say, “But Pastor Cordero isn’t mentoring them. They are just reading the Word.” Actually, he is guiding them to the best mentor they could have – the Holy Spirit. Jesus said that when He left, He would leave a teacher to guide us -- His Holy Spirit.

Today, walk through the SOAP system with the Scripture above – Hebrews 4:12.

Scripture: Hebrews 4:12

Observe: What are your observations about this passage.

Further Thoughts: Ask yourself some questions and apply this passage to your life.

Pray: Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you today to follow these truths

Psalm 119:11 His Word Protects Us

2010-08-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. ~Psalm 119:11

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have the responsibility to uncover and retrieve counterfeit money. But in their training the Royal Canadian do not study counterfeit bills. They only study the real thing. The reasoning is that if they know what the genuine product looks like in every detail, they will instantly recognize a currency that doesn’t belong.

The Scripture hidden in our heart will protect us by providing us with the genuine truth to measure everything else against. If I know God’s truths, I will also know when I am being tempted to sin. If I’ve learned His precepts, then I will recognize false teachings that may try to lure me away from Him. The enemy is the father of lies, and he will try every means possible to entice us to succumb to the destruction of his lies. But with The Truth firmly planted in our minds and hearts, we have a weapon that will slice any deception into shreds. Use your “sword of the Spirit” to fight against the powers that will cause your defeat. The Word is in your hand.

Further Thoughts:

Why does Scriptural memorization need to be an integral part of our spiritual habits?
Should all spiritual teachings be weighed against the Scriptures? Why or why not?
What must be coupled with memorization to keep us from sinning? (HINT: The Pharisees knew the Scriptures.) Explain.
What is your active plan to make the Word of God an integral part of your life?

Father, I choose to keep Your Word very close to my heart. Protect me by Your sword. Amen.

The Rhema becomes our daily mentor

2010-07-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

Wayne Cordero in his book, Divine Mentor, writes how Christ and His Spirit is the best mentor we can find in this life. We have access 24/7 to God’s Word, Christ’s example, and the Holy Spirit’s teaching. Therefore, we must just take time to absorb the instruction that is available to us.

The Word of God as it stands in printed form is the Logos. The truth stands as truth all by itself. But there are times that you can be reading the Word, and it’s like the words comes flying off of the page into your heart. The truth to your present circumstances and challenges becomes crystal clear. Every door is suddenly open and your mind is full of ideas, peace, and certainty. In that moment you are seeing the world through God’s eyes. Absorbing His wisdom. Experiencing the Word as a living, breathing, active force that can change your entire perspective. That is understanding the Word as your Rhema or personal word from the Lord for your life today.

Further Thoughts:

What is your “go to” plan when you need help, counseling, or direction in your life?
Have you ever experienced the Logos becoming your Rhema? Describe.
What is each part of the Trinity’s role in touching our lives with Rhema?
How is it that an ancient writing can be relevant to life and its circumstances today?

Father, I need Your guidance in my life. May Your Word become my Rhema each day. Amen.

John 17:17 "The Bible is the inerrant and infallible Word of God"

2010-07-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. ~John 17:17

After Christ and His grace-filled sacrifice, the Word of God is the next greatest gift God has given to us. We can actually hold in our hands and study for ourselves the very words of the Almighty God of the universe, just as He had them written down by some particularly chosen men. The Word of God is literally “God-breathed” and made available to all mankind to read, meditate upon, and follow.

In the beginning God spoke directly to Adam and Eve. After the Fall, He spoke to the people through the prophets. Next, He sent His Son, Jesus, 100% God Himself, to walk among us. And finally, we are left with the Word of God along with His Holy Spirit to guide our lives. The power of the Word of the Almighty is within our very hands and heart. Moses tells us in Hebrews that the Word of God is “living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword.” The Word holds all dominion over the enemy. Nothing can stop us when we grasp the truth and power of the Word of God.

Further Thoughts:

How has the Word of God impacted your life?
How would your life change if you did not have the Word?
What difference does it make if the Word is inerrant and infallible or not?
Is truth still truth even if no one believes it? Explain your answer.

Father, what a precious gift You have given us in Your Word. We are not only given the wisdom of the ages, but also power over the enemy. Thank You for this amazingly powerful life tool. Amen.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "What we know/believe about God matters"

2010-05-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. ~Proverbs 3:5-6

How we view God affects every aspect of our life. The thoughts we form, decisions we make, actions we take – they are all done from a starting paradigm of what we believe about God. If He is just another god that we appease with our weekly songs and prayers, then we should be able to plan out our own paths and face our own demons in whatever way we choose.

But…if He really is the Almighty, omniscient, omnipresent, creative, intelligent, loving, grace-filled all-powerful God, then we can trust Him with our life. I don’t have to have it all figured out; He’s got it under control. I don’t have to understand everything happening. He does and I can trust Him. I don’t have to be afraid of tomorrow because as long as I am surrendered to Him and Him alone, He will make sure tomorrow happens just as it is supposed to happen. I am in His capable and gentle hand. It makes no sense to trust any one else but the one true God.

Further Thoughts:

What in your life are you hanging on to that God wants to control and why?
Do you have trust issues? Explain.
Does our trust in God depend on the trustworthiness of man or on our circumstances? Explain.
Who is in control of your life right now? Explain how well that is working.

Father, I know you are trustworthy. Help me to daily surrender to Your control and guidance of my life. Amen.

Genesis 1:1 "God is Creative and Smart"

2010-04-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ~Genesis 1:1

We serve such an amazing God! He is not only the creator of all; He is creative. Look at the amazing shapes and colors all around you in nature. He came up with universe after universe and at the same time designed the extraordinary complexities of an atom. Then He made man and woman. And not just one set. He made it so we can reproduce and new life is made in a miraculous combining of cells. And then that life breathes, thinks, moves, and creates in the image of the Father. We stand in awe of His amazing creations and breath out thanksgiving with our lives.

What a mind, if we can so contain His intelligence to a human word! And His thoughts are so beyond our thoughts. He exists and sees beyond time and space. When we are trapped in our large and small challenges of life, He sees the big picture and knows the truth of all that has been, is, and will be. He is the one we want to call Lord.

Further Thoughts:

List God’s creative ways.
What creativity did He put in you?
What creativity and smarts did the Creator place in you?
How can you use your gifts for His honor and glory?

Father, You created me and all around me. Your intelligence surpasses all. And I was made in Your image. May I always use the parts of You that You’ve placed in me to honor my Lord. Amen.

Romans 5:1-2 "Rejoice!"

2010-04-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. ~Romans 5:1-2

When was the last time I really "rejoiced" about the hope of the glory of God? The Merriam-Webster Dictionary says that "rejoice" means: "to feel joy or great delight." That word, rejoice, really jumped off the page at me today. Maybe it's because it is raining and it's hard to feel delight on a dreary day. Maybe it's because I have to move everything out of the bedrooms today for the carpet cleaner coming tomorrow. Or maybe it's because I haven't spent enough time lately reflecting on His amazing gift. We can get so caught up in doing things for Him, doing things for our family, doing things for ourselves, that we don't take the time to meditate on how amazing and BIG a God we serve. Life clutters and that noice mutes the voice of joy that should permeate everything I do.

When I take the time I need in solitude to be still and listen. To pour over His Word and let His guidance wash over my soul. Then I remember the amazing joy I have of a Father who loves me and cares about my every step. Then and only then do I remember that the "hope" does not just mean for now, but for my time with him for eternity. Even death will not be an end, but a return to Him. Charles Spurgeon said, "Death is no longer banishment, it is a return from exile, a going home to the many mansions where the loved ones already dwell." I can rejoice now in my life in exile from my true home because my dear Holy Spirit is always with me. And I can look forward to the day when I shall stand before the throne and meet my Lord face to face. What other response can I have to such hope than to rejoice?

Further Thoughts:

Have you failed to rejoice for a while? Why?
What needs to change in your life so you live in joy again?
Do you let the circumstances of life steal your joy? Why? What does Scripture say about that?

Father, I rejoice in You and You alone today. You are my Rock, my Salvation, and my Hope. There is no one that will ever surpass Your greatness. Thank You for my joy. Amen.

Psalm 139:2-4, 7 "God is Omniscient, Omnipresent, and Omnipotent"

2010-04-08T10:26:00.000-07:00

You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? ~Psalm 139:2-4, 7

What I have said, that will I bring about; what I have planned, that will I do. ~Isaiah 46:11b

These three huge words describe the very best friend we will ever know or who will ever know us. Our omniscient God is all-knowing. No thought you have ever had was hidden from Him. Every idea you have formed, He knew your intentions. Your heart is His reading material and your mind an open book.

God’s omnipresence allows Him to be everywhere at the same time. No corner of the universe is without His presence. When we are on the mountaintop, He is there. When we walk in the valley, He walks with us.

God’s power is omnipotent. There is no one greater or more powerful than He is. Nothing and no one can overcome Him. He is not fatigued or on vacation because His power is endless. He never sleeps nor does He ever need our help. The only thing He needs from us is our friendship.

Further Thoughts:

Describe your ideal friend. How does God compare with your description?
Are these attributes of God overwhelming? Why?
In what ways do these attributes of God help us in living a holy life?
Find other Scripture that talks about God’s omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence.

Father, You are the best possible friend anyone could have. You know every part of me, are always with me, and empower me to face each day. Thank You. Amen.

Proverbs 14:19 "God is Good and Righteous"

2010-03-31T19:02:00.000-07:00

Evil men will bow down in the presence of the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous. ~Proverbs 14:19

Evil cannot remain in the presence of the goodness and righteousness of God. His holiness overpowers and overcomes any challenge evil can cause. He is perfect goodness. His ways are always right. His whole being embodies holiness like no other so that His goodness and righteous cannot even be understood by our mere human minds. The Creator creates what is good and righteous; evil distorts that creation but can never change it.

All the adjectives we use to describe someone that is good – superior, excellent, magnificent, marvelous – pale in comparison to the goodness of our Lord. And His righteousness will win out over all opposition.

This passage in Proverbs is not referring to God’s presence or His gates. It’s talking about those who receive Him. We are given the power of the greatest Being of goodness and righteousness to live within us. By the power of His presence in our lives, we can overcome evil with His goodness.

Further Thoughts:

In spite of the evil in the world, what examples of God’s goodness and righteousness do we see every day?
Why do some people have trouble viewing God as good?
How does knowing that God’s goodness and righteousness live within us change the way we face the challenges of each day?

Holy Father, Your presence empowers me to face any challenge the enemy may throw at me. Thank You for overcoming evil with Your goodness and righteousness. My life has hope. Amen.

1 John 19 "God is Just and Perfect Grace"

2010-03-29T15:32:00.000-07:00

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. ~1 John 1:9

The justice of God depends upon a transgression being made right. A price must be paid for sin and He paid it. The atonement made on the cross covers anything we have done against the Lord. Nothing is exempt. Therefore, we are only left with the responsibility to humble ourselves and confess the sins we have committed and turn away from our transgressions.

Although we may have to deal with some consequences of sin, the punishment is paid for. Redemption is undeserved and filled with the amazing grace of our Lord. Even in all our wretchedness, without any call for rightfully deserving it, He offers His grace to cover our sins with His atoning blood. What greater gift was ever given to put all things right again.

Further Thoughts:

Do you ever feel like God is unfair? Why?
Why are there still consequences for sin even when they have been forgiven?
How have you experienced God’s amazing grace?
How do we live out justice and grace in our own lives?

Father, thank You that you are just and full of grace. Without Your grace I would still be living in my wretched sin. You are truly amazing. Amen.

Ezekiel 38:23 "The Holy God Lives in Community"

2010-03-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

And so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord. ~Ezekiel 38:23

To truly know and love someone, you must spend time with them and get to know their attributes – who they are; what makes them tick; their likes and dislikes. That is what we will be doing this week, and we are beginning with God lives in community. We’ve already discussed that He lives in community with Himself in the form of the Trinity. But, as well, the very reason He created us was to live in community with us. He desires a relationship with His creation.

In Ezekiel we learn that He promises to share His greatness with us. We do not serve a distant, tyrannical deity who has no desire to be a part of our lives whatsoever. We serve a God of love who wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives. He showed His love through creating an amazing world for us to live in. He gave us free will to choose to have a relationship with Him. After we messed that one up, our God provided a way to restore the union we had with Him through great personal sacrifice. Now He lives within us in moment by moment communion. Does God hide from us? Absolutely not. Look around. He is continuously revealing His presence.

Further Thoughts:

List specific ways God continues to reveal His greatness and holiness to you.
Why do we so often fail to see God’s activity in our lives?
What have you been doing lately to purposefully live in community with God?

Father, open my eyes to your activity in my life. Quiet my spirit so I can hear Your words of love and direction in my life. I want to love You more each day. Amen.

Romans 8:14-15 "The Reminder of Relationship"

2010-03-09T13:39:00.000-08:00

...because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” ~Romans 8:14-15

When we were living without God and in sin, we were walking alone. But now, with His Spirit living within us, we are His children. The separation of sin has no power on our relationship. Because of Christ, we are once again in full relationship with our Creator through His Holy Spirit.

I am no longer alone as a child of God. I walk with the Almighty Creator of the Universe guiding me, teaching me, counseling me every day. There is not a moment He is not with me. He knows me inside and out and still loves me. He applauds my strengths and helps me in my weaknesses. When a new lesson is to be learned, He is right beside me walking through the difficulties and the trials. There is no friend closer or more loyal than my God. And there is nothing I can’t face when His Spirit is with me.

Further Thoughts:

How is your life different today walking with the Spirit compared to when you lived without Him?
How does being a child of God and part of a large family of believers affect how you live?
The Holy Spirit is constantly giving to us in this relationship. How do we give back?
Is there ever any reason to ever feel alone again? Why or why not?

Holy Spirit, I love the fact that You are always with me – guiding me and simply living life with me. Thank You for helping me be my very best. Amen.

Titus 3:5 "His Role in Our Lives"

2010-03-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

“…he saved us not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy, He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit….” ~Titus 3:5

The Holy Spirit of God gives us rebirth and renewal. Rebirth occurs at the time we ask Christ into our lives. In that moment, the Holy Spirit comes to reside within us and we are made as new – like we have been born again as a newborn baby. The slate is wiped clean. All the sins of the past are gone and remembered against us no more.

But, unfortunately, we have developed habits of sin that must be removed from our life and that can be a timely process. By the renewal power of the Spirit, we can overcome the temptation of those old ways of sinning and choose a new path. As we walk this way, the Spirit guides us and reminds us of the commitment we have made to God to be His child. He will lead us through valleys and mountaintops to teach us what it means to be a true follower of Jesus Christ. We are never alone. Our Spirit Counselor will be with us every step of the way.

Further Thoughts:

Describe what you felt like when you received Jesus as your Savior.
Afterward, what kinds of struggles with sin did you face? Were they any different than before you received Christ?
List roles the Holy Spirit plays in our lives. Support with Scripture.
What do we need to do to be more in tune with what the Holy Spirit is saying to us?

Holy Spirit, thank You for Your presence within me. Teach me Your ways. I am listening. Amen.

Romans 8:11 "He Frees Us From the Tyranny of Sin"

2010-02-18T14:45:00.000-08:00

And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you. ~Romans 8:11

When we receive Christ and the Holy Spirit comes to live within us, we are no longer bound to the sinful nature we were born with. Its oppressive power over us can be defeated by the power of the Spirit. Sin’s tyranny will have lost its reign. The bondage we have lived in no longer exists.

The Holy Spirit is the One we allow to put to death the misdeeds of the body. [Romans 8:3]

Thomas a Kempis, a 15^th century Augustinian monk, said that changing our habits toward sin will be at first difficult. “The flesh will cry out, but it will be restrained by the Spirit.” We have the power of the Holy Spirit not only guiding us away from our sinful nature, but helping us to resist the temptations that plague our lives.

Further Thoughts:

If the Holy Spirit lives in us, why are we still tempted by sin?
What is the relationship between temptation to sin and our decision to sin?
How does the Holy Spirit help us when we are tempted?
Write about a time the Holy Spirit clearly guided you away from the temptation to sin.

Holy Spirit, continue to help me when I am tempted to resist that which is death to me. You are my Protector. Amen.

Acts 1:8 "He Empowers Us"

2010-02-04T13:52:00.000-08:00

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
~Acts 1:8

The Holy Spirit is the one of the Trinity that most of us fail to recognize often enough. Think about this. The power of the Almighty Creator of the universe is with you at all times. He will guide your every step. He will enable you to do the unimaginable. Jesus even said that we would do greater things than He did. That could only be possible through the power of the Holy Spirit. His power is unlimited, and that power is at our fingertips.

Am I suggesting we become super-powers or god-like beings? No, something even greater. We have the opportunity even in our frail, human existence to do the extraordinary – to be led by the omnipotent, omniscient God moment by moment. Yet how many times do we struggle and stumble along on our own strength when the Wisdom of the Ages is waiting to lead? Let the Holy Spirit empower you to be all you can be. He’s waiting.

Further Thoughts:

What do you allow in your life that drowns out the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit?
What would be possible for you if you allowed the Holy Spirit to empower you every day?
How does the Spirit’s power make us witnesses to others?
What would happen if all believers lived in the power of the Holy Spirit?

Father, You have given us a tremendous gift and source in Your Holy Spirit. Help me to embrace the power You give. Amen.

Ephesians 1:13-14 "He Confirms God's Work in Us"

2010-02-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory. ~Ephesians 1:13-14

Before we came into a relationship with God, the Holy Spirit did not live within us. He was at work around us. He would try to draw us to Him. But He did not live within us. That distinction is reserved for God’s children only.

His presence confirms two things. We are members of the family of God with full rights as heirs. His Spirit confirms that we are His children and co-heirs with Jesus Christ. And secondly, the Holy Spirit marks us with a seal. His presence guarantees that we have a reservation in heaven and eternity with the Almighty. What an amazing gift. He is working in us as His children now and as His children for eternity. By His Spirit we are made into a new creation for His glory and presented with a hope for eternity.

Further Thoughts:

What difference does it make in our daily lives that we are children of God?
Why do we need to have a seal on us for heaven?
How does your earthly inheritance compare with your eternal inheritance?

Holy Spirit, thank You for Your seal on my life that binds me not only to a family, but to Your eternal presence. Amen.

John 16:7-11 "Who is the Holy Spirit?"

2009-12-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned. ~John 16:7-11

The Holy Spirit is first and foremost the third part of the Trinity. The very Spirit of God has always existed just as God the Father and God the Son have. In this passage in John, Jesus is telling us that the Holy Spirit will be our guide and the one to convict us of our sins. Before you even had decided to come to Christ, you knew the Spirit. He is the One who showed you your sin and your need for a Savior. It is the Holy Spirit that draws all men to Himself.

After we receive Christ, it is His Spirit who guides our every step if we will only take the time to listen and obey. Surrendering to the Spirit of God means freedom from the unknown. If I place my life in the hands and direction of the Almighty, I know that I will be walking the very best path for me. All I need to do is listen.

Further Thoughts:

Where do we first see the Spirit introduced in the Scriptures?
List the roles of the Holy Spirit. Support with Scripture.
How do you know when the Spirit of God is speaking to you?

Father, thank You for not leaving us alone but giving us Your Spirit. Continue to guide me and I will listen. Amen.

2 Corinthians 3:18 "True Acceptance"

2009-11-20T10:25:00.000-08:00

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. ~2 Corinthians 3:18

Two major aspects of the transformation that Jesus brings that are sometimes overlooked are forgiving ourselves/others and repentance. When we ask God to forgive our sins, we must also forgive ourselves for the sins we’ve committed and forgive those who have sinned against us. Too often people will hang onto the shame and pain and really stall themselves in the process of transformation. Jesus didn’t die for us to dwell in the midst of the muck. He died so we’d have victory. Therefore, we need to completely let go of all that is associated with that sin.

Forgiveness is not the only problem. Many people do not choose repentance. Repentance is completely turning against our sin. We must make a 180 degree turn to choose to leave old ways behind that led us to that sin and to walk the path Christ has for us. Only when we choose to turn away from evil will we see the true glory of God.

Further Thoughts:

Find Scripture on forgiveness and repentance. Write out one of each here.
Are there sins in your past that you haven’t forgiven yourself for? Write out a declaration of forgiveness to yourself.
Who do you need to forgive? You don’t have to go to them. They may not even know they’ve hurt you. But in your heart you need to forgive them for the wrong they’ve done. Write out a statement of forgiveness to them.
What parts of your old way of life do you keep hanging onto? List the areas of your life that need a 180 degree turn from.

Father, help me to forgive myself and others and teach me to turn away from the old me and build on the new. Amen.

Romans 12:2 "Our Transformation Through Christ"

2009-11-19T10:26:00.000-08:00

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will. ~Romans 12:2

The amazing thing about surrendering to the lordship of Jesus Christ is that in the act of humbly yielding to Him, you regain your life. The power of Christ transforms you into a new creation that is so much better than the old one. The old one was controlled by vain desires and selfishness. It sought pleasures for self and certainly didn’t see the big picture of life. Every decision and thought was reduced to, “How will this affect me.”

When we are transformed, the “me” is taken care of hidden in Christ. My troubles are temporary and fleeting. My joys are precious gifts from Him. My future is in His hands, and I don’t have to worry about it. My family, neighbors, co-workers, and the people I pass on the street need me to show them His love. I’m just a conduit of caring and compassion. The world may be in chaos, but in this new life, I rise above the chaos to a peace and joy that passes all understanding. Do I still have troubles. Yes. But I face them resting safely in the Father’s capable and protective hand.

Further Thoughts:

Find Scripture that says we are changed, renewed, transformed when we receive Christ.
Is transformation an event or a process? Support with Scripture.
How has God transformed your life?

Father, thank You that I don’t have to stay where I am, but You transform me. Continue to work on my heart to make me more like You. Amen.

Romans 10:9-11 "Our Choice for Christ"

2009-11-18T09:26:00.000-08:00

That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame. ~Romans 10:9-11

The right to receive Christ as your Lord and Savior is completely a choice. He has already paid the price for the forgiveness of our sins, but we must choose to accept that grace-filled gift. It’s like receiving a beautifully wrapped present. We can accept the gift, but if we never unwrap and open the gift, we have not truly received it. Acceptance happens by believing in your heart through faith that Jesus is who He says He is and did what He said He did. Ask Him to forgive your sins and receive His amazing gift.

The choice to receive Christ also comes with a commitment. We are stating that we are now followers of Christ. To follow anyone is to do as they lead. Christ wants to not only be your Savior, He desires to be Lord of your life. Surrendering to the Lordship of Christ will be the most liberating choice you will ever make.

Further Thoughts:

Define “grace.”
Why did Jesus sacrifice for us?
If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Savior, you can do that right now. Confess that you are a sinner and ask for His forgiveness. His grace, mercy and love are waiting for you. Write out your prayer of confession.
If you have already received Christ as Savior and Lord, write out your story. When did you receive him and how have you grown in your relationship with Christ?

Thank You, Lord, for Your amazing grace and precious gift of salvation. Help me to never take Your sacrifice for granted as I strive to follow You. Amen.

2 Corinthians 5:21 "Jesus Our Savior"

2009-11-11T10:13:00.000-08:00

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. ~2 Corinthians 5:21

As we discussed last week, we are fallen beings who are in need of a Savior. Without someone to pay the price for our sins, we cannot be in relationship with God because He cannot condone sin. Someone must pay the price. That someone was Jesus Christ. The Almighty chose to come down from His throne humbling Himself into the human body of His creation.

And as the sacrificial Lamb, He paid a dear price. His body was severely beaten then placed on a cross. His torturers drove iron nails through His hands and feet; pierced His side with a spear. Christ’s death was horrific, but the Lamb went suffered willingly for you and me. His grace-filled gift is our life renewed.

Within the arms of Jesus, we not only have salvation, but protection and guidance. He has given us life and shown us how to live. As our Lord, we are safe in His arms.

Further Thoughts:

Why did the chief priests arrest Jesus? How did God use their sin to His own purpose?
Read an account of Jesus’ crucifixion in John 19:16-30. Write your thoughts on His sacrifice.
Compare and contrast the death of Christ compared to the sacrifices of the Old Testament.
What completes Christ’s sacrifice for our sins and separates Him from all the other gods that man worships? (HINT: See John 20:1-9)

Lord, You endured such horrors for me. Thank You for Your grace and sacrifice which passes all understanding. Amen.

John 1:14 "Jesus, 100% Man"

2009-11-05T10:42:00.000-08:00

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. ~John 1:14

God determined that someone needed to pay the final price for man’s sins, so He became that man. By sending His Son, He fulfilled the penal punishment and became the final sacrifice ever needed for our sins. He desired that no more blood be shed for sins, so He became just like us. Born as a baby, Christ learned to walk and talk and grew into a man like all men. He battled temptation as we all do. We see evidence of that when He went into the desert and Satan tempted Him with all the very same temptations he throws at us today. Christ walked as a man and endured the elements like we do. He needed food to live and suffered when His body was abused. He bled like we do and cried out to the Father for mercy in the same way we cry out in our own pain. And when His body could take no more, he died like all men die.

In every way, Jesus walked this earth as a man. Living, loving, laughing, eating, sleeping, suffering, and then dying. Yet…. He walked it as 100% God and did it perfectly. Christ, in His perfect humanity, showed us how to live our lives pleasing to the Father.

Further Thoughts:

Find examples from Scripture that demonstrated Christ’s humanity.
In the above examples, can we live in our humanity as He did, or does our lack of divinity make us weaker and less able? Explain.
Why does Christ’s humanity offer comfort to us today?

Father, thank You for humbling Yourself for my sake and demonstrating how to live. Continue to guide me on that path. Amen.

1 John 10:30 "Jesus, 100% God"

2009-11-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

I and the Father are one. ~John 10:30

The divinity of Jesus is questioned by many, but has many points of proof as to its veracity. God, the Father, sets the stage from the very beginning of creation with His use of the word, “us” to describe Himself amid the Trinity. Then the prophets predict Christ’s virgin birth showing forethought and divine intervention. How else would a baby be born without intercourse unless God intervened.

Christ’s life continues to demonstrate His divine nature. He possessed a knowledge of people beyond given information. His ability to heal the sick and raise the dead showed a power beyond a mere human being. His wisdom and authority over the spiritual realm by calling out demons displayed for all present an authority beyond humanity.

But even with all the evidence, there is still an element of faith that must be practiced to believe that Jesus was God incarnate. And that is a step we all must take to walk as His devoted followers.

Further Thoughts:

What Scripture other than John 10:30 speaks of Christ’s divinity?
What is the definition of “Immanuel?”
Why is it important that we believe He is 100% God?
How does Christ’s divinity separate Christianity from other religions?

Father, thank You for sending Yourself to atone for my sins. You humbled Yourself; now teach me how to humble myself before You and others. Amen.

2 Timothy 1:9 "A Way to Make Us Worthy"

2009-10-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

…who 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…. ~2 Timothy 1:9

We are all sinners. Romans 3:23 says, “For we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” We can choose to be good people, but that will not pay the price for our sins nor will it make us worthy to be in the presence of God. We are only made worthy through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Matthew 10:38 says, “…and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.” Our worth is not by anything we do but by who we choose to be. Just as he called the disciples to follow Him, in the same way Christ is calling us to follow Him with our life.

Surrender of the heart is a very difficult action. We want to guard ourselves from submitting to anyone. Our natural tendency is for self-preservation and self-control. In other words, we want to be our own God. But if we surrender to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and accept the unearned gift He is offering, then and only then will we be worthy to enter into a relationship with the Father. It’s the grace of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice that makes us worthy.

Further Thoughts:

Why did God choose to be in relationship with me?
Am I made worthy to be in His presence? Why or why not?
Am I choosing daily to take up my cross and follow Him? If yes, in what ways? If no, why not?
Relationships take work. Am I willing to become all God wants me to be? If not, what is hindering me?

Father, You did all You needed to do to make me worthy to be in a relationship with You. Now I choose to be the person I need to be. Amen.

Romans 6:23 "Consequences of Sin"

2009-10-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 6:23

One thing mankind in general has trouble coming to grips with is that there is a hell. The last things we want to think about as we pursue our own agenda are the consequences. We already deal with temporary consequences for sin here in our lifetime, we don’t want to consider something terrible that lasts for eternity. Yet God has definitely established a permanent consequence for sin and it is hell – an eternal separation from God.

Many people want to argue that if God is a God of love, He would never send anyone to hell. But remember the points we’ve already covered. 1) God is perfect love and perfectly just and 2) God and sin cannot live together. Someone has to pay for our sins and since He is a loving God, He already provided the sacrifice. We just have to provide the repentant heart. God doesn’t send people to hell, we make choices. If we follow the Father, we follow what His heart’s desire is – that no one should enter eternal separation from Him.

Further Thoughts:

What temporary consequences of sin do we suffer now?
What Scripture supports the fact that there is a hell?
In your own words, describe what you believe hell would be like.
In Matthew 25:31-46 Jesus says that not all people who call themselves Christians will enter heaven. Who does He say will enter? Explain why.

Father, forgive me my sins and I choose to stay on a path toward righteousness. My desire it for eternity with You. Amen.

Romans 8:5 "Sinful Nature or Human Choice?"

2009-10-15T09:33:00.000-07:00

Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.~Romans 8:5

All people are born with a sinful nature. They have an innate desire to go against God’s laws because sin and rebellion were allowed to come into the human existence. God provided free will, but man chose to act on that will and chose poorly. The sinful nature focuses not on God’s ways and direction, but on selfish desires and self-promotion all coming back to the first sinner – Lucifer—and his desire to be God. In the same way, our sins are an acting out of a personal desire to be our own god and in control of all we are and do.

God’s laws, however, are in sharp contrast to the sinful nature. A complete turn-around in fact. We exist for a relationship with Him and to live in that relationship, we must live in holiness as He is holy. The only way for that to happen is to choose to live by His Spirit and not by our selfish desires.

So the answer to the question is “both.” We must constantly fight with our sinful nature which will want to draw us back to all ways contrary to God. But we also have a choice – to choose our own way, or to choose the ways of the Spirit.

Further Thoughts:

In what areas do you fight your sinful nature?
What Scripture can you memorize to speak against the sinful nature when it wants to take over?
What choices can you make today to overcome your sinful nature?
What assurances do we have that the sinful nature can be overcome? Support with Scripture.

Father, I know my nature is to sin, but by Your power and cleansing, I claim holiness. Help me Holy Spirit. Amen.

Genesis 3:6-8 "Adam and Eve"

2009-10-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.

Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. ~Genesis 3:6-8

The first human beings under the gift of free will chose to sin against God’s laws. And at the time, He only had one law to follow – ‘Do not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.’ They were given freedom on every other account. They could have lived amazing lives among all the animals while dining in the most beautiful garden ever to exist. But human selfishness took over. The oldest of desire of having more began with Adam and Eve. They were capable of resisting the enemy’s temptations, but they choose to yield to their base desire – to be like God. And thus, they chose to become their own god. They placed themselves above the Almighty and were banished from the garden. They wanted power, but all their sin brought them was knowing evil and cursing every generation to follow.

Further Thoughts:

What were the gifts that God had given Adam and Eve?
Why was the one thing out of their reach so enticing?
How does the enemy use this same tactic on us today? List specific examples.
What are we to do to resist sinful temptations? Support with Scripture.

Father, Adam and Eve chose to disobey. Forgive me for making the same choices. Cleanse me of my sin and Holy Spirit, help me to resist the enemy’s temptations. Amen.

1 John 3:10 "Perfection Cannot Coexist With Sin"

2009-10-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother. ~1 John 3:10

God in all His perfection cannot abide sin. The very fact that He is pure love and purely just means that He will not tolerate sin to be in His presence. The two opposites are incapable of existing on the same plane.

Since we are sinful people, how then can we be in relationship with God? How can He accept us into His presence with a pall of sin hanging over us? In the Old Testament, we see that God instituted the method of animal sacrifice for man’s sins. Someone had to pay the price for atonement, so the animal gave their life for our sins so we would be made clean again. In the New Testament, we are given the final sacrifice that ever needs to be made in the person of Jesus Christ. God sacrificed Himself so we could be in perfect relationship once again with Him. We simply must accept His amazing gift and once again be welcomed into the throne room.

Further Thoughts:

What Old Testament examples do we have of God’s holiness separated from man’s sinfulness? (Hints: Former Hebrew slaves and The Promised Land…. The tabernacle….. The Priesthood.)
What is repentance?
Are there any unrepentant sins that are hindering your relationship with God? If yes, what are they?
If you have sins to confess, take the time right now to confess and repent.

Father, I praise You for Your holiness and thank You for making it possible for me to have a relationship with You even though I am a fallible being. Show me where I fall and cleanse me from all sin. Amen.

Psalm 99:9 "God is Perfect"

2009-10-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his holy mountain, for the Lord our God is holy. ~Psalm 99:9

The holiness of God – His perfection – is a concept that our human minds cannot fully grasp. Everything and everyone we have encountered is tainted by a sinful nature. To wrap our minds around perfection we must be able to understand perfect love – a love that only has the other person’s interests in mind, not their own. We must understand perfect truth – complete honesty coming from full knowledge; no falsehoods entering into the equation. We must understand perfect justice – wrongs being made right not out of vindication or revenge, but because justice must prevail.

And to understand the perfection of God, we must understand perfect faithfulness. One who will be with us and never leave us. One who will follow through on all His promises and desires His very best for us. One who loves us more than we love ourselves. This is our perfect God. He is the One we strive to understand, serve, and praise.

Further Thoughts:

What aspects of God’s holiness/perfection have you experienced in your own life?
Does God’s perfection cause you to feel fear or comfort? Why?
How are God’s perfection and our trust in Him related?
Are there other areas of God’s perfection/holiness that we did not discuss in the “Observe” section? List them and support with Scripture.

Father, Your perfection astounds me, and causes me to want to know more of You. Help me, Holy Spirit, to see You in all Your glory. I worship You. Amen.

Psalm 101:1 "Praising God for Who He is and How He Loves Me"

2009-10-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

I will sing of your love and justice; to you, O Lord, I will sing praise. ~Psalm 101:1

Our lives should always be lived as praise to God for who He is and how He loves me. I can praise Him by how I choose to live – by being loving, kind, and generous, a person of integrity and dependability. But I also should take time each day to simply offer up words of praise and thanksgiving to the Father.

God is not just our God, as big as that is. He is also our Lord and Master and honor is due Him. The act of offering praise to Him is a tangible way to reinforce in our own minds that He is God and we are not. He is in control; we aren’t. He is Almighty; we are His creation. Our perspective will be realigned to Truth and our hearts will be made perfect and selfless when focused on the One True God.

Further Thoughts:

Look up and write down as many adjectives for God as you can think of. (If you have Experiencing God, it has a wonderful listing of names for God in the back.
Read some Psalms out loud as praise to the Lord. Write out your favorite verses of praise.
Spend some time today in quiet meditation on the characteristics of God. When done, write out a prayer of thanksgiving and praise for who He is and how He loves you.

Psalm 42:8 "Attributes of God - Personal"

2009-10-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me-- a prayer to the God of my life. ~Psalm 42:8

We see God as the deity that He is, but how is it that He is personal – wanting a relationship with me? God is love – not that He has love or knows how to love – He is love. And out of that love He desires to have a personal relationship with His creation, us.

When man had wandered so far from that relationship, God sent Himself through Jesus Christ to become like man and communicate His love in a very tangible and eternal way – by dying on a cross. Someone had to pay for all the sins we had chosen because while being a loving God, He is also just. Since a price had to be paid, He chose to be the one to pay it once and for all. He became the sacrifice in Jesus Christ.

But the personal touch doesn’t end with Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. God sent His Holy Spirit to live with us, guide us, counsel us through this thing we call life. Jesus showed us how to live. His Holy Spirit guides the way. That is a God in touch with those He loves.

Further Thoughts:

Make a list of God’s attributes that shows He is a personal God.
Even though we don’t always “feel” God near, how do we know He is with us? Support with Scripture.
As you live your life, how can you daily acknowledge God’s personal and direct involvement in it?
Like all personal relationships, our relationship with God takes work. What is our responsibility in that relationship? Support with Scripture.

Father, thank You that You are not some great Deity that is far from me, but one that loves me and interacts with my daily life. Teach me how to love You better and build a relationship that lasts. Amen.

Psalm 90:2 "The Attributes of God - Deity"

2009-10-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. ~ Psalm 90:2

Attributes of God are vast and could never be dealt with in a couple of paragraphs. Entire books could be written just about His omniscience (the ability to know all) and His omnipresence (the ability to be everywhere at the same time.) And we still would not understand these amazing God qualities. So we’ll focus on His sovereignty – His supreme authority to rule as the God of all.

The Almighty has always been and always will be. He is not restricted by time or space. And as Creator of all that is, He maintains sovereignty over all creation, including mankind. His Word is law. His power has no limits. And as such, He remains the one true God – who wants a relationship with you. We may try to put Him in a box and make Him into the God we want Him to be, but in reality, He will always be who He is – a big God.

Further Thoughts:

Make a list of the attributes of God that attest to His Deity.
How does man try to put God into a box? In other words, how do we try to make Him small and manageable?
How do you know God is who He says He is?How can such a big God love someone as small as we are?

God, I believe that You are the omniscient, omnipresent, sovereign God of all. And yet, You care about me. Lord, in my life, all I ask is that You be Big. Amen.

Gensis 1:26 "The Trinity"

2009-09-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea….” ~Genesis 1:26

The Trinity is a very difficult concept for us to wrap our heads around. It means, “Three in one.” God is the Father; the Son, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Spirit. He is separately and distinctly each, but all one God. The best analogy given is that a man can be a father, son, and husband – distinct roles in his life – but all one person.

Although the Trinity has always been together, they have shown to at times have unique jobs to do. God, the Father is considered the supreme entity residing over all creation. Jesus often spoke of and to His heavenly Father. (John 20:21) Paul opens Romans with “Grace and please to you from God our Father….” (Rom. 1:7b)

Jesus is God incarnate. He is the part of God that lowered Himself to come to earth as a human so He could lead mankind in how to live. (Matt. 1:20-23) He then culminated his time here with dying on a cross for our sins, rising from the dead, and ascending back to heaven. It is through the actions of the Son, who was 100% man and 100% God, that we are reunited with God, the Father. (John 1:1 and Matt. 11:27)

The Holy Spirit is the Counselor that Jesus left with us when He returned to heaven. (John 14:16-17) We actually have the Spirit of God here guiding and directing our ways if we will only “listen.” It is God’s Holy Spirit who draws all men to Himself.

Further Thoughts:

Read through the passages noted in the Observe section. Note any observations you make.
What other passages can you note that refer to all or part of the Trinity? Note them.
How does the fact that there are three distinct parts of God affect us as humans?

Father, thank You for sending us Your Son to save us from our sins and for Your Spirit that guides us daily. We are blessed by Your presence in our lives. Amen.

Exodus 6:7 "Misconceptions About God"

2009-09-29T15:29:00.000-07:00

I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God…. ~Exodus 6:7

Man’s thoughts about God can bounce around like changing images on mirrors in a fun house. Whatever our mood or circumstances, that’s how we filter our view of God. But it’s simply not the truth. God is not Santa Claus who brings you good things when you are good and coal when you are bad. He’s also not human with changing emotions and opinions. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. His love is always unconditional and His judgment is always just.

Over 70 times in the Old Testament God says in some form, “I am the Lord your God.” Unlike the mythical gods, God is not capricious, moody, unscrupulous or selfish – characteristics that mirror human, fallible behavior. Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” He is the one and only God of the universe, and He is our Lord. He will never let the good go unrewarded or the sinful unpunished. He is always good, always loving, always just. He is God.

Further Thoughts:

What misconceptions about God can you tend to fall into believing?
Why do you have misconceptions about God? What influences have led you there?
How do you retain truth about who God is?
What changes in your daily life need to happen to keep a right perspective on God?

Father, guard my heart in Truth. Help me to always see You as You really are, not as my emotions or circumstances may want to lead me to believe. Amen.

Exodus 3:14 "Who is God?"

2009-09-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you”~ Exodus 3:14

All human beings have an innate sense of the existence of someone greater than themselves. God is saying in Exodus that He is that being. He is the one that we simply “know” is out there somewhere – powerful, all-knowing. Sometimes we have trouble putting labels on who He is or even believing that He does exist. But God is real – alive and active. He exists above and outside our human limitations while at the same time interacting with His creation.

Some people spend their entire life looking for God when He was right here all the time. He may be an invisible entity, but His love is evident all around us. Some of us have to look a little harder than others because we are surrounded by so much sin, pain, and ugliness. But He is still there and He loves you deeply. More than you will ever know.

Further Thoughts:

Why is it important to know who God is?
Have you ever doubted the existence of God? Why or why not?
What has influenced your view of God? Is it based on Scripture or people’s opinions?
What evidences of God have you experienced?

Father, as I seek after You, continue to reveal to me who You are. I want to know you more – to understand Your amazing love and power. Amen.

Revelation 21:3 "Relationships Are the Only Thing That Lasts"

2009-09-23T11:11:00.000-07:00

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.” ~Revelation 21:3

Here’s a perspective that maybe you have never considered. The only thing that lasts for eternity is our relationships. Think about it for a minute. For all the hours and hours of our life we spend earning money so we can buy “stuff,” none of it will be going with us when we leave this earth. No cars, houses, boats, Harleys, clothes, I-Pods, cell phones, nothing will be joining us in eternity. The only thing we will have from this life is our relationships. And how we spend our time here will determine the depth and breadth of those relationships.

Wayne Cordero gave an illustration at a conference a few years ago. He said to imagine a rope stretched out in front of you going to your left for eternity and to your right for eternity. The rope represents Time. Then take a pin and make a small scratch on the rope. That represents your life on this earth in relation to all of eternity. How will you spend your minutely short time here? Will it be focused on collecting “stuff” that will rot away, or in building relationships that will be forever? It’s your choice.

Further Thoughts:

Read Revelation 22:1-5, then take an inventory of your life? How are you spending your time?
Now determine what percentage of your time is spent on building relationships – both with the ones you have now and toward leading more people to know Christ through relationships with not-yet believers.
We all have to earn money to live, but are there some changes in priorities that you should making? If yes, what are they? [Or, with whom do you need to be building relationships?]
Why are relationships so important to God? [HINT: What was the reason God created the world to begin with?

Father, open my heart to people – all people. Help me to focus on relationships more than things. I want to keep my priorities in line with Yours and focus on what will last. Amen.

John 13:35 "How Do We Love Others?"

2009-09-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. ~John 13:35

Loving others begins with loving God. When we completely surrender to Him and His will, His love within us helps us see others as He sees them if we just open our spiritual eyes. We then stop judging others because we see the decrepit state of our own heart, and instead, afford others the same grace and mercy that was shown to us by the Father.

Since we are battling sin and self-centeredness daily, we must choose to reach out to others in love. We can love in dramatic ways such as caring for a dying friend or helping someone make rent this month. Or it can be in small, simple kindnesses like saying hello, giving a smile, helping someone with their groceries. The range is wide and never ending. The point is to love God by loving others – the proof is in the action.

Further Thoughts:

After surrendering true love to God, love for others begins at home. How can you love better those who know you best?
Friends and co-workers are next in the line of priority. What can you do for someone today that will show him/her the love of God?
Random acts of kindness should infiltrate every part of our life. Did you make anyone’s day special today?
Review these Scriptures on loving others -- 1 John 4:21; Rom. 12:9; 10 Commandments. What do you observe from these passages?

Father, fill me with a love of grace and mercy. Guide me away from self-centered desires and help me to see others as You see them and love them with Your love. Amen.

Matthew 22:37 "How Do We Love God?"

2009-09-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” ~Matthew 22:37 NIV

We’ve discussed the fact that God created us in His image because He wants a relationship with us and loves each of us very much. But how do I know how to love Him back? How do you love the supreme deity that you can’t see or hear? He gives us simple instructions that are not always so simply executed. In Matthew He instructs us to love Him with your whole being – every single part of you committed and surrendered to Him.

Loving God with your whole being is loving Him with your heart, soul, and mind. Your heart is the center of your emotions. You decide in your heart where your loyalties lie and determine how you will face life (i.e. positive or negative attitudes).

Your mind, as your thinking center, is where you make choices that will either build up or destroy the relationships your heart has chosen. Protecting your mind from sinful or negative input will help grow healthy relationships in your life.

Lastly is loving God with your soul – the very essence of who you are. Your soul is the only part of you that will live forever. It is your hopes, dreams, values, talents, and abilities. The soul is the part that makes you uniquely you.

When all three are combined, they make up the amazing people God has made us to be. It is with your entire being and dedication to the Father that you can live a life of love for Him.

Further Thoughts:

In what ways do you love God with your heart?
In what ways do you love God with your mind?
In what ways do you love God with your soul?
Which of the above areas could use some work? How?

Father, thank You for Your amazing love. Help me to love You with my entire being and in all I do. I love You, Lord. Amen.

Isaiah 49:16 "Why Does God Love Me"

2009-09-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

“See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands….” ~Isaiah 49:16

Too often people feel that they don’t deserve God’s love. Their feelings may come from their present situation of life or from things they have done in their past. Maybe it’s just from a surety of never being able to do anything good enough for God. Whatever the reason, they all come from a center of lies.

Here’s the truth. First of all, we are all messed up human beings. Every single one of us. No one is exempt. Some have, by God’s grace and a lot of hard work, come to a place of being less messed up than others. But those are few. Most of us struggle every day against “the sin that so easily entangles.” (Heb. 12:1) We are all working hard to submit to the Father and live under His laws. Remember, life is a marathon, not a sprint, and the racetrack is narrow. We all must continually make adjustments to stay on the right path. And we all, at one time or another, choose to fall off the path.

That’s where the second truth comes in. God loves us unconditionally regardless of our past or present state, and His grace and mercy is plentiful and waiting. No matter how much we screw up (otherwise known as sin), He is ready and waiting to forgive us and help us get back on track. Our choices will not always be right, but His love for us will always be abundant.

Further Thoughts:

Do you believe you are worthy of God’s love? (It’s a trick question. None of us are worthy.) So why does God love us?
Read Genesis 9:6. In whose image are you made?
What are the qualities that God wants to fill you with through His Holy Spirit? (See Galatians 5:22-23.)
What truth can we rely on every day about how God feels about us? Write it out using personal pronouns.

Father, thank You for Your unconditional love. I know You love me even in all my messiness. Guide me, by Your love, to run the race with boldness and in Truth. Amen.

Deuteronomy 7:9 "God Created Us For a Love Relationship With Him.

2009-09-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.” ~Deuteronomy 7:9

All throughout the Old Testament, we have evidence of God’s desire to have a relationship with us, His Beloved. He created man and woman and even walked through the Garden of Eden with them. But when they chose to disobey God, the relationship was broken. From that point on God continually reaches out to His creation and a pattern ensues. Man gets himself into trouble; God rescues him; man lives in relationship with God for a time; then man turns to his own ways again. We see this tragic course repeated again and again, and it continues to this day. God has revealed Himself to mankind over the last six thousand years, and yet we still are the ones to arrogantly walk away from His love and grace.

God designed mankind to have a relationship with him. He wants to be in, around, and through our daily lives. His wisdom, guidance, and perspective so surpass our measly little view. Through God we have the broad vision of the Almighty Creator of the Universe. And in return, all He asks for is our love – true love.

Further Thoughts:

Do you have a relationship with God? Is it consistent, or do you keep turning away and He has to wait patiently for you to return? Explain.
Have you ever experienced anything close to unconditional love? If yes, what characterized that relationship?
Read the book of Hosea in the Old Testament. It’s a beautiful love story that illustrates God’s unconditional love for us. What do you learn most from this story?
In what way have you seen God evidence His desire for a relationship with mankind?

Father, thank You for Your unconditional love. My heart desires to stay in tune with our relationship. Guide me in doing my part. Amen.

Genesis 2:4-7 "We Are God's Creation"

2009-09-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

“This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created. When the LORD God made the earth and the heavens- 5 and no shrub of the field had yet appeared on the earth and no plant of the field had yet sprung up, for the LORD God had not sent rain on the earth and there was no man to work the ground, 6 but streams came up from the earth and watered the whole surface of the ground- the LORD God formed the from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” ~ Genesis 2:4-7 NIV

For centuries, two great questions have been 1)Where do I come from? and 2) What is my purpose here? We’ll deal with the second question later. First, we need to realize that we are God’s creation. He created everything around us – the earth, the air, the stars, the sun, trees, plants, animals, right down to single-celled creatures. But His greatest creation was man and woman.

How do we know that we are his greatest creation? Why are we not equal with baboons and other animals? There are two answers to that. First, He “… breathed into his [Adam] nostrils the breath of life….” (vs. 7) Nothing else in all creation received its life from the breath of the Almighty. His personal mark was placed upon man and literally gave him life.

Secondly, we know that we rank highest in God’s creation because we were made in His likeness. Genesis 1:26 says, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air….” You are made in the image of God – not in a physical way, but in the characteristics and very essence of God. That makes you valuable and loved by the Almighty Creator of the Universe.

Further Thoughts:

Do you believe you are special and loved by the Almighty? Why or why not?
Have there been lies spoken to you in your past that have made you believe you are unloved or unwanted? If yes, how?
What Scripture mentioned here refutes those lies?
How does God’s creation plan show you that you are loved?

Pray: Father, thank you for creating me with such love and care. Teach me to live in that love because I am made in Your image and You gave me life. Amen.

An explanation

2009-09-14T10:28:00.001-07:00

Dear readers (All three of you:)

I know I haven't been very consistent in the last few months. Many "life" things going on and not always near a computer. My husband was on sabbatical, so we were gone a lot. We were also finishing up our book which is to be coming out in October. See http://tinyurl.com/ksabsm for pre-ordering. Note that I a still in the Word, even if I'm not sharing it with you. I'd be completely lost without His guidance and wisdom.

Now, I am on a writing assignment for my church. We are designing a discipleship series, and I am writing the daily studies. Since they are so much like my blog, I'm going to share them here. They don't follow through book by book, but are all on basic theology. If you have any comments or suggestions, they are welcome.

Thanks to you few but faithful. We journey on together.

~Jerolyn

Hebrews 4:14-16 "Hold On"

2009-08-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Dedicated to Claudia Johnson. A woman whose faith never seemed to be shaken.

Read Hebrews 4:14-16.

"... let us hold firmly to the faith we profess...." NIV

In review, we started Hebrews with that fact that Jesus is over angels and yet was made in the same image as we are. He went through the same temptations, but was without sin. Unlike Moses and the Israelites, Jesus never turned His back on God and therefore, did not receive the punishment of being without the promised land like they did. The Israelites made poor choices and were not able to enter into God's rest (the promised land.) Their lives serve as an admonishment to us to keep on the narrow path -- choose obedience so we can enter into His rest one day.

THEREFORE, we have seen that we have a high priest who takes our sins away once and for all. He is completely worthy and capable of accomplishing for eternity what had to be done annually before. So we should "hold firmly to the faith we profess." Our faith cannot be taken lightly. A high price was paid for it. Neither can we live flippantly. Obedience is a requirement to finishing in His rest.

So we must hold on. Hold on through the doubts. Hold on through the struggles. Hold on in good times and bad. When all else fails, hold on. He will never fail you. God has promised that He will never leave us nor forsake us. No matter what we endure here, God has us in the palm of His hand and will carry us through the storm. "Approach the throne with confidence" for He is waiting to guide you through this life we've been given. He is never short on "mercy and grace" and will bring us safely to our rest.

Further Thoughts:

Read Hebrews 11. When our faith is shaken, hearing of others' strength can spur us on.
Are you doubting or struggling in your faith? God can handle your questions. If I can be of help, please leave a comment or email me at jerolyn@bogearfamily.com. I'd love to search for the answers with you or just be in prayer while you are in your valley.

Hebrews 4:12-13 "Laid Bare"

2009-08-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 4:12-13.

"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight." NIV

Do you think we will ever fully understand the enormity of these verses? We are told that through obedience we enter into His rest and and then, bam, hit with these verses. God knows me inside and out. He sees every dirty crevice and grimy indentation. He knows not only my thoughts, but my intentions. No corner of my mind or heart is hidden from Him. Every action He sees me make, He also sees the purpose in my heart. I can hide from others and even try to fool myself, but my complete being in all its imperfections covered in some vaguely good deeds is an open book to my Creator.

And here lies the rub, He's also my Savior. I can't hide anything from Him, but then He still loves me. He knows exactly where I fall and where I attempt to shine. He sees ever corner of my heart, and still He loves me. My imperfect being He now views draped in His amazing grace.

Further Thoughts:

Are you thinking you can hide from God or are you just fooling yourself? Why?
If we know we need to hide from God, why don't we just confess and rid ourselves of the things that are sin to Him?
We are all imperfect beings -- some of us are just forgiven. What verses prove that?
Read the words of this amazing hymn. (suggestion: mute the sound.)

Hebrews 4:1-11 "Rest"

2009-08-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 4:1-11.

"Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience." NIV

We have 3 "rest" references here. Entering the rest of the Sabbath, entering the rest of the Promised Land, and entering the rest of heaven. How are they all related.

God has provided a reward for our labors whether they are at the end of the week, the end of a journey, or the end of our life. Our job is to do be obedient to get there. All of life involves work - labor for food and shelter, work on relationships, work at evangelism. Everything requires us to consciously put feet and hands to thoughts and ideas. If we don't, we become intellectual, useless slugs and of no purpose for God's plan. But if we remain diligent, we get a reward of a day of rest. Likewise, as symbolized by the Israelites' journey through the desert, we can have a reward at the end of our life's journey as well. The trip is not an easy one. There are dry times and obstacles all along the way. But the Lord provides for our every need if we only trust Him. We may not have columns of smoke during the day or fire at night, but His Spirit lights the path if we simply use our spiritual eyes.

Thank You, Precious Lord, that we have a purpose and a work to do. Give me diligence to run the race with perseverance even when times are difficult. Holy Spirit, guide my path that when I reach the end, I will hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant." And then I can enter my rest.

Further Thoughts:

Look up Scripture about running the race.
Work is expected, but are we to do everything? In other words, is every opportunity to serve something we are to do? Support your answer with Scripture.
Read about the Sabbatical rest.
Do you need to rest or work? Remember, balance is a good thing.

Hebrews 3:7-19 "No Hard Hearts"

2009-07-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 3:7-19.

"Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion." NIV

I'm thinking if a sentence is given twice within 12 verses, we need to pay attention to what it says. The Hebrew people failed to do it, and paid dearly for their arrogance. They never saw the promised land. And yet, today so many people are still committing the same horrendous mistake -- choosing their own way over God's.

"Today" .....Yesterday is done. If you ignored His voice yesterday, ask forgiveness and move forward. Tomorrow isn't here yet. Don't worry about it. Today is the time to open your ears to the Lord's voice and obey. It may be something small or something life-changing -- but anytime He speaks, it's important. We can't simply ignore the voice of the Almighty God. My goodness, what arrogance! That's exactly what got the Israelites into trouble. Where did we become so self-sufficient as to think we know better than God? The audacity blows my mind and must make God very angry. Which makes me wonder.....how many blessings have we missed out on because of our disobedient moments? If the Israelites, who traveled through the desert for forty years in the end miss out on the Promise Land, then I must be missing out on something when I disobey. We serve a just God and sin does not go unpunished.

"do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion" -- Lord, forgive me for those times I have harden my heart against You. Holy Spirit, protect me from those desires. I never want to be rebellious against my Lord. You alone are the great I AM; I am not.

Further Thoughts:

Are you listening to the Lord every day? If no, why not?
If yes, what is He saying to you? Are you following His directions or living in rebellion?
Why do we choose rebellion?
How do we break the cycle? What heart change has to happen?
How do we stay committed to God?

Hebrews 3:1-6 "The Faithful One"

2009-07-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 3:1-6.

"But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house." NIV

Here Jesus is called an "apostle." The word apostle means "one who is sent." God, the Father, sent Jesus, the Son, to earth to redeem His people. Then the author compares Jesus to Moses in this respect. Just as Moses was sent out to lead the Hebrew people out of slavery in Egypt, so Jesus is sent to lead the people out of slavery to sin.

Jesus stands firm, faithfully still leading God's creation out of an eternity of damnation to an eternity with God. Even when we stray, He is "faithful" over God's house, the believers. So often we act as the Hebrew people did and wander away from Christ, but He never leaves us. He faithfully waits patiently for our return. What sorrow and grief He must suffer in the waiting. As if the suffering He already did for us on the cross was not enough, we become selfish and seek our own paths. But He waits ..... with arms open wide for His bride to return. Such patience with such fallible beings. Why? Why doesn't He just wipe us all off the face of the earth and say, "Enough of this foolishness!"

Because He is love. And His amazing love outweighs and out-waits any sin we can commit. All we need to do is "hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast." The Son is watching.

Further Thoughts:

Do you have trouble believing that Jesus still loves you even in all of your messed-up-ness? Why?
What is the difference between being "messed up" and walking away from God or rebellion?
What does Scripture mean by "the narrow path?" How is the width of the path determined? (support with Scripture)
Read the book of Hosea. It's short, and it gives a great illustration of the way Jesus waits for us.
Spends some time today analyzing if you are on the narrow path or not. What are your intentions as a Christ-follower? Fire insurance or total surrender? God knows your heart, so you can't hide your intentions from Him. But sometimes, I think we hide our intentions from ourselves. It's time to be honest.

Hebrews 3:1 "Staying Focused"

2009-07-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 3:1.

"...fix your thoughts on Jesus...." NIV

I couldn't get past verse 1 today. I was stopped dead in my tracks. What does it mean to "fix your thoughts on Jesus?"

Our thoughts can turn many different directions. And I find that my circumstances can really influence where those thoughts/attention/focus goes. And I don't like that. I feel manipulated by life and not centered in who I am -- or rather in whose I am. Here's what I mean:

The most focused on Christ that I am is when I get away on a spiritual retreat. Best if I am alone, but I have gone on retreats with my husband/with my best friend/other pastors and their spouses/and just other Christian women. All my time is spent in worship, in The Word, in prayer, usually in one of God's beautiful creation spots, fellowshipping with people of like mind. In those settings, I have experienced some amazing revelations from God, and He has used me to speak into other people's lives. I come away totally refreshed and ready to face the world again.

Then there is the school year. A huge time of routine. Get up, have my time with the Lord, get my daughter started on school, exercise, housework, etc. Routines. I work well in routines. They keep someone who can be happy with a glass of iced tea and a good book focused on getting other things accomplished. But the best part of the routine is, I do not miss out on my time with the Lord every morning. Because it is as natural as brushing my teeth, I make time for it. And those are the times that fuel my life. I start off my day on the right foot with my eyes firmly focused on the Lord. Do I do everything perfectly after that? No. But at least I am booting up to the right system. I'm kneeling at the Master's feet receiving my marching orders for that day, and absorbing His amazing love.

Then there are all the other times that offer distractions -- vacations, long jury duty, visitors, summer break in general, loss of routines/responsibilities. And then my focus is gone. I start wandering to other distractions and lose sight of purpose and the fuel that keeps me going. Discipline is easy when it is part of our daily routine. But when that routine is interrupted, I can so easily lose focus on the important part of living -- serving our Lord.

I want a discipline, no a passion in my heart for the Lord that is so great that nothing can distract me. I mean NOTHING. I don't want to have to rely on routines. I want to be driven to my knees each day in desperation. I want my every action -- even during the distractions -- to be to live for Christ and His glory. I want every word I speak and every action I do to be with one purpose -- to serve Him. No more allowing distractions to make my focus blurry. I choose to fix my thoughts, eyes, ears, my whole being, on Jesus -- the author and finisher of my faith.

Further Thoughts:

How do you operate? What or who distracts you from focusing on Jesus?
How can you eliminate or control those distractions?
Find some verses that will keep your mind focused on Christ. Post them on your mirror, dashboard, or computer to remind you daily where your focus must remain.

Hebrews 2:5-18. "Made Human to Save"

2009-07-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 2:5-18.

"Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death -- that is, the devil -- and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death." NIV

What a beautiful passage describing the power of Christ and His submission to a human life. He suffered so much for us so we would no longer live in fear. His authority is established by everything being put "under his feet." And then His humility comes through lowering Himself to the level of His Creation.

I find the passage "In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering." very interesting. By Christ lowering himself to our level, He not only became our high priest of atonement, but a brother to all mankind. We are children together. Very hard for my human mind to wrap itself around this thought. But I am so thankful and humbled that I am loved that much. I just pray that I can share a small portion of that love to those around me. What amazing grace.

And because Jesus could not sin, his connection to our humanity is that He suffered in temptation just like we do. We are not alone; He truly knows our struggles and provides a way out.

Further Thoughts:

Does the fact that Christ became like us humble you or make you arrogant?
Based on Christ's actions and our place in eternity, how should we relate to those around us who have not accepted the Truth?
We are all still messed up beings. So what has changed?

Hebrews 2:1-4 "Pay Attention"

2009-07-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 2:1-4.

"We must pay more careful attention...." NIV

Distractions abound - TV, music, games, outdoor sports, indoor sports, work, chores, food, relationships, travel - and I'm only getting started. Staying focused on anything is so difficult today because we have so many things wanting to pull us away to give them attention. And then everything must be instantaneous. With cell phones, IM, Twitter, email we have demanded responses immediately. I don't know how many times I've heard my cell phone ringing and couldn't get to it. Then my house phone rings and when I finally answer, the caller is saying, "Where were you? I've been trying to get a hold of you!"
"I was in the bathroom; is that okay?"

We are becoming more and more demanding of other's attention, but are we paying attention ourselves? Do we take the time to really listen to another person? Do we stop long enough to reflect on what we've done, what we are doing, and what we need to do next and why? Do we ever stop long enough to change our perspective from myopic to a bird's eye view that will give us a better perspective on situations, relationships, and just the whole scope of life?

Recently, my husband and I had the privilege of having our Sunday morning worship sitting above Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe in California. So far, this is my most favorite place in the whole world. With the waterfall to my right, the bay below me, and the lake to my left, I feel like in that moment all is right with the world. The beauty of that place warms my soul, and God is so near I can touch Him. That is one of the places I can go where life stops, and I truly pay attention.

As the writer of Hebrews points out, it is so easy to let your faith drift away. Call it a spiritual ADHD, but with far greater consequences than missing an answer on a test or not hearing the boss' instructions on a project. When we allow our minds, hearts, and attention to wander from the Truth, the enemy has an opportunity to fill our minds with alternatives. But there is no substitute for the salvation that Christ gave.

* the angels gave the message
* Christ first announced the salvation
* confirmed by witnesses
* God reinforces the message with "signs, wonders, and various miracles"
* we are blessed with the gift of the Holy Spirit to speak the Truth within us

If we just pay attention, the Truth is shining loud and clear. Our focus must remain on Him and Him alone. Only then will the purpose of our existence and the plans for our life make sense.... And continue to make sense.

Pay attention. It's all true. Every word of it.

Further Thoughts:

When do you most find the doubts about what you believe begin to creep in? When you are too busy for reflection? When you stop having time alone with God and in the Word? When you stop meeting with other believers? Other times?
What are ways we can pay attention better? How do we keep our salvation always in the forefront of our thinking?
Make a list of your priorities. Does this shed any light on your "attention" level?
Rearrange your priorities today so that your focus remains on Christ and what He has done for you.

Hebrews 1:3b-14 "Christ Above the Angels"

2009-07-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Hebrews 1:3b-14.

"'Let all the angels worship him."' NIV

People have had a fascination with angels for centuries. Their power and abilities has always been a mystery to mankind. And because of their invisible eternal quality, we have never really been able to pin down who they are. The Scripture speaks some about angels, and the author of Hebrews here makes it very clear that they are not equal in any way to Jesus Christ, the Son.

The Jews revered the angels because the law given at Sinai involved angels. So Hebrews is making sure that the Messianic Jews understood the angels place in the hierarchy.

What I love about this passage is not so much where the angels are in relation to Christ because I already believe they are below Christ. But this passage says so much more about Christ's relationship to the Father and His status as God. He is placed over the angels and made equal with the Father. Christ was at the creation of the world. He is the one who completed the purification for sins. He sits at the right hand of the Father. All beings, including angels worship Him. Even His enemies are a footstool for His feet. Christ's superiority is clearly established.

Then the author closes out the chapter reminding us that angels are just ministering spirits sent to serve us, the redeemed. While that is comforting in itself, that I serve a Master that is God of all is so much more.

Further Thoughts:

Look up the verses regarding angels that the author of Hebrews sites.
Do you rely on angels to guard you or the power of Christ who lives within you?
Read Billy Graham's book "Angels, Angels, Angels." Fascinating read.

Hebrews 1:1-3a "In His Image"

2009-07-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

NOTE: Okay, took a little longer than a week. Jury duty took over my life. In the Word, but not online. (Read a lot from Proverbs.) I'm back now and ready to tackle a new book and learn many new truths.

Read Hebrews 1:1-3a.

"...he has spoken to us by his Son...." NIV

Here is the essence of the Old Testament versus the New Testament. In the Old, God spoke to the prophets, and they spoke to the people God's words. But now through Jesus Christ, we have direct access to the Father. That is just amazing to me. How blessed we are. We do not serve a distant God who like the mythological gods sat on their thrones far away and in their self-centeredness, dictated our fates. Our Father loves us so much that He became one of us and makes it possible for us to "draw near to Him and He will draw near to us." His dictates are not for His own gain, but for our good. His guidance is 24/7. He never sleeps or ignores us. Even when He takes His time to answer us, it is because His timing is perfect, and His ways are right. Out of His tremendous love, our Father makes Himself available to His children, and it is only possible through Jesus Christ -- the "perfecter and finisher of our faith."

I also love the first part of verse three. "The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word." All of God's glory could not have been contained in one human being. So Christ is the radiance of His glory -- a mere fraction to give us a glimpse of who God is. But in Christ's being, He is an "exact representation" of the Father. Everything we see and learn from the Word about Christ, that is God. His compassion, justice, understanding, knowledge, power, anger at sin, unconditional love -- these are all God's attributes. As God Himself, Jesus shows us in a human package, what our Father and Creator is like. And then to be told that we are made in His image. Wow. Stop and think about that a minute. I am made in the image of the Creator. I'm not equal with Him, nor will I ever be. But like a child resembles their parents in looks, I resemble my Father in my spirit. If I put away the sinful nature that wants to take over each day, I am truly designed for good. There is something very comforting in that truth. And powerful. By the power of Jesus Christ, I am in touch with my Creator whose character I am designed to embody.

I'm still human and will never be perfect. But, wow, what a leg up we have. We are designed for perfection. Now to just allow His Spirit to mold our hearts to match.

Further Thoughts:

What other Scripture says that we were designed in God's image?
What would Old Testament life been like?
Has New Testament revelation made life to easy for us? Or at least, can we become lazy over Old Testament devotion?
Does direct access to the Father make arrogance a temptation? How do we avoid that?
Even though we are made in His image, we are still so small, and He is so BIG. Live in humility.

Hebrews "Prep Work"

2009-06-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

I am going to start studying Hebrews. Over this next week, I will spend time researching the author, theme, and purpose of this book. Then I plan on slowly reading through the book (13 chapters) to get a good overview of the whole thought -- probably a couple of times. After all that I'll walk through it verse by verse, chapter by chapter on the blog.

Hope you'll join me. Back in a few days.

Jerolyn

Colossians 4:18 "In Chains"

2009-06-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

Colossians 4:18.

"I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you." NIV

Many of us feel as if we are bound up in chains. The stresses and pressures of life imprison us in a cell of duty, routine, deadlines, demands, failures, disappointments, and even by some of the things that actually bring us joy like friends and family. We can feel like we are a foot shorter carrying the weight of the world on our backs. And then we read this simple line, "Remember my chains."

Believers all around the world are in chains for Christ -- physical, emotional, or spiritual. They have done nothing wrong except to proclaim Jesus as Lord. Their lives are a jumble of uncertainty as they strive to serve the Lord and hide from the authorities. Some have been restrained in the physical battle by actually chains. Their lives are reduced to a small dark cell. They are left to simply pray and remember the Scripture they have learned. Each breath they take will be the one to leads them into another day of torture or to eternity. They are the persecuted ones.

The daily grind of living holds no comparison to the chains of persecution. My life is a breeze compared to theirs, yet I'm also challenged by them. Do I do enough for the Father? Why am I blessed to live in a country where I can worship freely? Why am I able to bow my head to pray in a restaurant without fear of being arrested? And do I live out the privileges of such a free faith to its fullest?

Lord, forgive me for complaining about the times I think my life is too complicated or frustrating. Help me to remember those who are truly suffering for Your Kingdom.

Further Thoughts:

What does Scripture say about suffering for Christ?
Do you feel like you are bogged down with life? Many people are suffering real pain -- emotional, physical, spiritual. But most of us others are just whiners. Click here and read about believers really suffering.
Pray today for those who are in chains for Christ.

Colossians 4:17 "Push to the End"

2009-06-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Colossians 4:17

"Tell Archippus: "See to it that you complete the work you have received in the Lord." NIV

The Lord gives us all kinds of jobs. We are given gifts and talents to use for his work in a secular job or a career ministry position. We have jobs as spouses and parents, friends, and neighbors. God calls us to work in our church as volunteers and in our communities as citizens. He has given us the capacity to do many things, we just have to be willing to do them.

The Word says to do everything as if you are doing it for the Lord. So no matter what your profession, calling, or job, you should do everything to glorify Him. And since He wants us to complete our work, we should finish well.

As we are coming to the end of a school year, I keep telling our kids, "Finish well." Not because I want them to not blow their GPA with the final tests. But because they have worked hard and should continue pushing to the end. God doesn't call us to be slackers, but warriors.

With the finishing up of the book, I have to tell myself the same thing. God gave us a call to do this; now I need to finish the work I've been told to do.

Everything we do should always be to His glory. And for His glory, we should always give our best to the very end.

Further Thoughts:

Is there something that God has called you to do that you are avoiding? Maybe it's time to finish well.
Find other Scriptures to support doing that which God has called you to do.

Colossians 4:14-15 "Hot, Warm, or Cold"

2009-06-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 4:14-15.

The body of Christ has and will always fill the pews with a variety of believers in different stages of their walk and relationship with Christ.

Some will catch the fire quickly or gradually, but either way, their devotion is true and unwavering. They never turn to the left or the right. Their hearts are pointed in one direction -- the way of the Lord. The world appears very black and white to them because they have decided for good rather than evil. Luke and Nympha were just such people. Dr. Luke, the writer of the third gospel (my personal favorite) gave his life for furthering the gospel of Christ. He traveled with Paul often on his missionary journeys, and it is believed that he died a martyr's death. He was a Gentile doctor, educated by the Greeks, who recognized the Messiah and surrendered to be His follower. Nympha, although not as well-known as Luke, gave just as much to the mission of Christ. She gave up the privacy and safety of her home and family to have a home-church meet there. She understood that with devotion comes sacrifice. Even though meeting in her home could bring persecution, she was willing to give to her Lord all she had.

Others will take the name of Jesus, but their commitment rises and falls with the wind. They may or may not participate with the body because their Christianity is based on duty rather than heart. Full devotion is not in their vocabulary because they have never completely surrendered their heart, mind, body, and soul to the Lord Jesus Christ. Self still wants to creep in to daily life, and the Christian label becomes simply a "Get out of hell free" card in their practical life. The Laodicean church is made known as the lukewarm church in Revelation 3. God says that He'd rather we be hot or cold, but a lukewarm people He will "spit out of His mouth." The Laodicean church couldn't decide if they wanted their life guided by God or by their wealth. They fell into the horrible trap that money can buy happiness and that is all that is needed for a meaningful life. But what they miss is that God works on completely different rules than the world. Money may buy temporary happiness, but serving the Master brings overwhelming joy and the hope of eternity with Him.

Lastly, we have the cold. Those who have seen the Truth and choose to turn away from it. They may leave for several different reasons. One, self takes over. The Christian walk asks for too much sacrifice. Or maybe they were hurt by a believer and have thus lumped all of Christianity into one category and therefore want nothing to do with it. Maybe they have done so much wrong that they believe they could never be forgiven or accepted by this group of believers, and so never try. Or maybe they feel judged by believers and find fault with the whole idea from that perception. So many avenues to turn away from a life with Christ. All of them lead to the same place -- eternity without the Father. As I've read the study notes, even though Paul sends greetings from Demas at the end of this letter, we know that Demas deserted Paul later. In 2 Timothy 4:10 Paul tells us that Demas left him "because he loved this world." The draw of the world is strong. The enemy has made it very enticing. It takes diligence to stay in close relationship with Christ and the Body while voiding the temptations of the pleasures of the world. If we don't, we will destroy our faith and walk away from the Lord.

I must remain strong and determined in my relationship with and service to my Lord Jesus Christ. I have one life to live, and I choose to be fully devoted to the Master.

Further Thoughts:

Which are you -- hot, warm, or cold?
Look at the people in the Bible - Old and New Testament. Were they hot, warm, or cold. Explain.
Who do you want to be?
What does it take to live a life on fire for Christ?

Colossians 4:13 & 16 "The Church Together"

2009-05-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 4:13 & 16.

"I vouch for him (Epaphras) that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis."

I wanted to do both of these two passages because they work so well together. It's about the church being the church. You see Hierapolis was about six miles from Laodicea and fourteen miles from Colosse. These churches were relatively close to one another. The church of Jesus Christ was spreading out. How was Paul going to continue mentoring these churches? He does so through letters that Paul sent and they passed between themselves to read to the churches. They provided instruction, encouragement, and hope as young, persecuted believers finding their way.

I love seeing churches working together - intradenominational and interdenominational. I remember a few years back I was at a Women of Faith conference that met here in my city. During lunchtime, a group of men were cooking for the women from their church. The men's shirts said, "The Church of Modesto." Modesto is a town about an hour away and there is no church there by that name. All the churches in Modesto got together to be the church as one. What on awesome example of being The Church -- working together, side-by-side toward a common goal of sharing the love of Jesus Christ. If we would do that more, maybe the world would stop seeing us as a religion with rules, regulations, and rituals and instead see the power of a love relationship with our Lord.

Further Thoughts:

Read through Acts. What were the primary purposes for these new churches?
How is your church doing in being The Church? What can you do to help that?
What attitudes have to happen to be a cooperating church?

Colossians 4:12 "True Intercession"

2009-05-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Colossians 4:12.

"Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured." NIV

Epaphras was always "wrestling in prayer" for the church at Colosse. What does that mean exactly? The KJV says, "labouring fervently." Fervently means "with great struggle, with difficulties, to contend with adversaries, strive, to obtain something." Epaphras was putting in a lot of time fighting the enemy in intercession for the Colosse church. I have to stop and ask myself, do I "wrestle in prayer" for anything or anyone? I pray, but am I truly engaging in the battle. For anything to be worthwhile, you have to commit time to it. How much time am I giving? Not nearly enough.

Along with being a convicting passage toward intercession, Paul also tells us how to pray for others and for ourselves. We may pray for all kinds of things, and that is okay. But what is our primary focus to be? We should labour fervently for the ability to stand firm in all the will of God. At first glance, I thought standing firm was just the first of three things, but looking closer, standing firm means to be mature and fully assured.

Maturity in the Christian walk would mean that we have reached an adulthood in our walk. As babies, we needed to be brought along by others -- very dependent on them for everything. We needed help in how to read the Bible and understand its Truths; we needed help in how to pray; we needed guidance in how to live as Christ would have us live. But maturity implies that we now are learning from the Word on our own. We are in communion with the Father on a regular basis, and we are making choices in our lives that are directed and in tune with the Father. Not that we don't need others to do life together, but we are not dependent on them for everything as we once were.

Standing firm also means being fully assured. We have no doubts about Who we serve or why. He is our complete source, and we live our lives fully devoted to Him. Sold out for the mission of Christ. This is our Lord's will for us and something we should be praying earnestly for in ourselves and others. The battle of life truly does begin on our knees.

Further Thoughts:

Do you seek the Father only for daily comforts and safety or do you seek His will and the ability to live in it?
I don't know if we ever reach complete maturity in this life, but have you left the infant stage? If no, why not? What needs to change?
A fully devoted believer no longer looks to their own interests, but fully looks to the interests and will of the Father. Are you there yet? If no, why not? What is holding you back and why?

Colossians 4:7-11 "Reconciliation"

2009-05-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 4:7-11.

"My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas." NIV

Paul is giving his final greetings as he closes this letter to the church at Colosse. Casually read, no lessons may seem to pop out from these last twelve verses. However, I've found six lessons I think we will focus on over the next few days. It's amazing what you can learn from goodbyes.

Paul sends greetings from Mark. Now what is interesting about this is Paul and Mark had a fallout previously. You see Mark referred to as Mark, John Mark, and John. They are all the same person that wrote the second gospel, Mark, and is the cousin of Barnabas. If you look in Acts 13:13, John Mark leaves the missionary group to go back to Jerusalem. There is speculation about his reasons for leaving. Some think he left because he was homesick for Jerusalem, while others believe it was because of change of the plan due to Paul's illness or change of leadership from Barnabas to Paul. Whatever the reason was, Paul seems to have taken it personally. In Acts 15:37-40 Paul and Barnabas get into a disagreement about Mark joining them. Paul is so against Mark coming because "he had deserted them in Pamphylia" that Barnabas takes Mark and goes one way while Paul takes Silas and goes another.

They have obviously worked out their differences by the writing of this letter and also the letter to Philemon, where Paul sends his greetings from Mark. In fact, five years later in 2 Timothy 4:11, Paul instructs Timothy to "get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry."

So what do we learn from this relationship between Paul and Mark? Three things -- sometimes others will seem to desert us; some will work to restore relationships; there is always the hope of reconciliation.

One thing I've learned in the ministry is that because people are at various levels of commitment to Christ, some will stay through thick and thin and some will go. Mark obviously was struggling on some level. Maybe he and Paul had a personality conflict or maybe he really was homesick. Some people will just push through the personal feelings to accomplish the mission. But not everyone is capable of or at the right place in their life to do that. And we as believers need to give the grace needed at that time for them to work through their "stuff."

Barnabas (the Encourager) worked hard to restore Paul and Mark's relationship. He defended Mark and tried to show Paul the value of bringing him along. But Paul had lost some trust in Mark and his devotion to the mission. I can't blame Paul. Having been "burned" before, I can understand not wanting to jump into the fire again. But sometimes, we need to listen to those around us to give us a better, less personal, perspective on a situation. Barnabas was that voice. But Paul needed more time.

We don't know how the reconciliation happened, but by this letter and the letter to Philemon, Mark was back to work with Paul as a valued ministry partner. There is always hope to reconcile a relationship if both parties are willing to compromise a little. Paul needed to afford a little more grace, and Mark needed to step up to the plate. Evidently, they met in the middle. For those of us who are all about the ministry at whatever cost, it's difficult to give grace to those who just don't seem to get it. Sacrifice is always involved to accomplish something worthwhile, and self-centered thinking will get in the way every time. On the other hand, we need to let people walk their own journey -- some taking longer than others. Hopefully, somewhere down the line, we are working together for the common goal of the kingdom. It will just take patience and perseverance to get there.

Further Thoughts:

Read through the various passages sited, as well as, some of the book of Mark to get a better perspective on the situation.
Are you sold out to the mission of Christ or still dragging your heels? You will not find a perfect ministry, but you can determine to work hard, remain loyal, and stay true to the ministry you are in. The main goal is reaching people for Christ. Everything else is superfluous.
Do you have a conflict with someone in leadership over you? Go to them and talk it out. One part of the body cannot fight another part and the body survive.
Are you struggling with dealing with uncommitted believers? Ask God for more grace and then go bring that person alongside of you. Mentor them into a stronger relationship with God and the mission of the Church.

Colossians 4:5-6 "Someone's Watching"

2009-05-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 4:5-6.

"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders...." NIV

Recently at our church we had one of our teens (let's call him Clay) play the drums in the service. Clay had only been attending for about three months and had grown spiritually in tremendous leaps from an atheist to a believer. He had played drums for our Sunday morning youth service called, A.M. But not in the adult service. That's why his father and his girlfriend came that morning. I was sitting on the front row because Jim (my husband) and I were going to team teach on parenting that day. Jim was standing off to the side in the wing. Worship began and suddenly I realized that standing to the side, but right in front of the stage was Clay's dad with a camera taking video of Clay playing the drums. Because we work so hard to avoid distractions during worship so people can actually worship, my first instinct was to go ask him to sit in the front seats or wait until after service to get his video. I knew the team would play another song for him in between services. I even looked over at Jim to see if he wanted me to move. We both just waited a bit to see if he would sit back down, but he tenaciously stood there taping his son. Jim nodded me off to let him continue. At greeting time, Clay's dad (We'll call him, Tom) sat down beaming from ear to ear.

Bob immediately got involved in the church helping with set up (We meet in a high school.) and came to church three weeks in a row. I talked to Clay the second week Tom was there and he said that his dad really liked coming and felt it just added something to his life. This last Sunday, week three of Tom's coming, we had baptisms. We always have some scheduled with video testimonies to precede them. But after the scheduled ones, Jim always gives an invitation for anyone who wants to get baptized to come talk to a pastor. We have clothes and towels waiting for them to use. At the end of first service baptisms, Clay came forward and asked to be baptized. It was awesome. Here this 16-year-old, who only three months previously was a self-proclaimed atheist, was receiving the sacrament of baptism. Clay had called his dad to come, but Tom missed it by just minutes.

Tom stayed for second service and after the baptisms, he came forward to speak to a pastor about being baptized. Someone ran to A.M. service and pulled Clay out saying, "Your dad is going under." So with Tom and the pastor in the portable hot tub, and Clay kneeling behind his dad with his hand on Tom's shoulder, Tom took the plunge. What a beautiful sight - father and son, hugging and crying -- as together they declared that they will follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

So here's the point of my story. What if Jim or I had stopped Tom from videotaping his son that day three weeks ago? Here was an unbeliever who was proud of his boy and just wanted to document his son's accomplishment. We could have come across as very uncaring and legalistic if we had stopped him and maybe, just maybe, he wouldn't have come back. I'm not saying this is the only reason Tom kept coming back. There are other factors -- the Holy Spirit working in his heart; the love and acceptance of not only Tom but his son by the people of the church. But.....what if.

People are watching us every day. Many just waiting for us to "mess up" so their view of Christians can be confirmed. Many watching because they see we have something that they so desperately want. Are we taking that fishbowl life seriously? Are we watching that we treat all people with love and kindness -- not just those in the body or the ones that treat us nicely? Are we allowing the glory of Christ to shine through our actions and conversations so we present the best reflection of Christ possible? We have to live out in front of all people the person we say that we are. Souls are hanging in the balance. And I don't want to have to answer for one of them being lost.

Further Thoughts:

Look for more Scriptures on being a witness for Jesus Christ to those who we are around every day.
How did Jesus treat the unbelievers He came in contact with?
Is there a "Tom" in your life who needs to see who Jesus really is? Are you showing them? If not, what needs to change?

Colossians 4:2-4 "The Daily Conversation"

2009-05-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 4:2-4.

"Devote yourselves to prayer...." NIV

Devote means to "commit by a solemn act <devoted herself to serving God> 2 : to give over or direct (as time, money, or effort) to a cause, enterprise, or activity." (Merriam-Webster) I have to include the synonyms because they are so descriptive. "synonyms devote, dedicate, consecrate, hallow mean to set apart for a special and often higher end. devote is likely to imply compelling motives and often attachment to an objective <devoted his evenings to study>. dedicate implies solemn and exclusive devotion to a sacred or serious use or purpose <dedicated her life to medical research>. consecrate stresses investment with a solemn or sacred quality <consecrate a church to the worship of God>. hallow, often differing little from dedicate or consecrate, may distinctively imply an attribution of intrinsic sanctity hallowed by the blood of patriots>." (Read through those again.)

As I read each of the definitions of "devote" and its synonyms, I have to ask myself, "Is this the way I treat prayer?" Do I treat it as a solemn act or a quick duty? Do I truly believe and have faith that it is for a serious use or purpose? Do I invest in prayer? These are all important questions that beg an answer. God has shown again and again in history, in the Church, and in our personal lives the power of prayer. He honors our prayers when given in accordance with His will and His Word. He desires that time of communion with us to love on us and instruct. But I must be committed or "devoted" to keeping those moments with the Father sacred and regular. I should always have the communication line open to the Holy Spirit, but I also need to just sit in His presence, share from my heart, and listen to His still small voice.

Paul continues to say that our hearts should be watchful and thankful. We need to be alert to where God is at work to join Him there. He will direct if we are listening in prayer. Then thankfulness should pour from our hearts for the prayer requests answered. We should thank Him for all answers. (Sometimes the answer in "no." But that is still an answer from God.) And we should lift up our fellow brothers and sisters as they navigate through this life representing the Father.

If I were a business woman and Bill Gates offered to meet with me daily for a discussion, I would not miss a one. If I were a restaurateur and I could sit down and talk to Chef Emeril Lagasse every day, I'd make that appointment a priority. Having a conversation with the Almighty Creator of the Universe should never be taken for granted. And we should never miss an opportunity to sit down with the Father, love on Him, and let Him love on us. Christian action is necessary; devotion to prayer is life-changing. He's waiting.

Further Thoughts:

Do you purposefully talk and listen to the Father or is it a passing conversation?
Some of the greatest believers in history spent hours a day in prayer. How much time will you commit to the Lord each day?
We can use the phrase, "I'm too busy." (I'm preaching to myself here.) But what are we too busy doing? Can we not make time for the Lord? Will any of those others things that make us "too busy" matter in the end?

Colossians 3:22-4:1 "Integrity"

2009-05-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 3:22-4:1.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, a working for the Lord, not for men." NIV

Fortunately, most of us are not slaves to any other master than Jesus Christ. Some days we may feel like it though. I believe in many ways this passage can apply to employee/employer just as easily because the bottom line is integrity.

The definition of "integrity" according to my trusty Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary is 1 : firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values : incorruptibility 2 : an unimpaired condition : soundness 3 : the quality or state of being complete or undivided : completeness

synonyms see honesty

Incorruptibility, soundness, completeness, and honesty. God calls us in our work places or when we are placed under another's authority to live out these qualities. They are a choice. They make us a harder-working trusted employee and employer. With these qualities, you can meet expectations without compromise. You reach above the bar and come out on top - if not in performance, at least in effort and attitude. You work harder and smarter than anybody else. You are honest. The thought of lying and cheating never enter your thoughts or actions. You are completely loyal -- to your boss and to the company.

And if you can't be those things - you need to change jobs.

Further Thoughts:

David was a man of integrity. How? What made him so?
Do you struggle with integrity? If yes, why? What needs to change?
Do you work with people who lack integrity? If yes, how can your life be an influence on theirs?

Colossians 3:20-21 "Parenting With Respect"

2009-05-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 3:20-21.

"Children, obey your parents...." NIV

Ironic, once again, to be writing on this passage today when I have a deadline for our parenting book. I'm trying to set aside the writing project for time to be with the Lord first.

I really want to focus mostly on the "Children/obedience" combo. So much disobedience among our kids today. The "me" generation thinks they know best (also just a product of teenager hormones) and disregard the parent's guidance/rules/directions. They've become so handy with information that they think they've received the wisdom to go with it. Obedience teaches so much more than just doing what you were told. You learn order, authority, wisdom, reason, discipline, submission, humility. I could go on, but I won't because I need to give equal time to verse 21.

Parents often end up frustrating their child through traditional rules (the ones our parents had for us and we blindly establish in our own homes without really thinking through their validity.) We frustrate them with doing exactly what we told them not to do (i.e. we yell, "Stop yelling!") or we start seeing them as commodities/or liabilities instead of human beings.

Both mandates boil down to mutual respect. If a child respects the parent for being the authority that God has placed over them, then they will be obedient. (Of course the parent needs to be living respectably as well. More is caught than taught.) Then the parent needs to treat a child with respect. There is a difference between punishing and disciplining. Yelling, screaming and beating have very different results to calm, firm, and deliberate. Don't get me wrong, I believe in spanking. But it must be done with purpose, not anger. There's a reason for the verse, "Spare the rod, spoil the child." A spoiled child makes for a rebellious future teenager.

Create a family foundation of love and respect fulfilling God's mandates and establishing a peaceful home.

Further Thoughts:

Parenting can be a controversial subject - even among believers. Agree with me or disagree? Why? Do you have Scripture to support your viewpoint?
I was going to ask, "Does anything need to change in how you parent?" but everyone always has something that can be at the very least tweaked. What area is that for you?
Are you being a disobedient child? If yes, why? Is that pleasing to the Lord?
Who in the Bible demonstrated a healthy pattern of parenting? What can you emulate from their example?

Colossians 3:18-19 "Submit and Love"

2009-05-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 3:18-19.

"...submit....love...." NIV

How very fitting that I come to this verse on Jim and my 24th anniversary. As I see marriages all around me struggling, I am so thankful to have a husband that loves God first, and then totally loves me second, and only me. And I give the same back to him. The prevalence of promiscuity and adultery in society in general is horrible. But those not under the law are not required to submit to the law. What is truly sickening are the numbers living in sexual sin and destroying their marriages who are professing Christians. It grieves my heart. But my ranting, although true, is getting ahead of the Scripture.

Wives, submit to your husbands: I'm not sure why people have a difficult time with this one. I suppose desire for control or lack of respect for the husband has a great deal to do with it. Also, if you are married to an unbeliever I can see situations where submission would be very difficult. Paul expands on this thought in Ephesians 5:22-24. He states that the husband is over the wife as Christ is over the Church. The way I read that, my husband has a much tougher job leading me like Christ leads the Church than I have submitting to his authority and leadership. What a responsibility. My entire well-being and future is placed on my husband's shoulders. That's a heavy weight to carry. The antonym of "submit" is "fight." I don't want to fight my husband. A union that is fighting is a civil war. What marriage could survive under those conditions? We should be fighting for our marriages, not against them.

Now here's why submitting is so easy. Read the husband's responsibility. Love your wives. Again, Paul expounds on that thought in much greater detail in Ephesians 5:25-33. He is required out of his love to make me holy by leading us in the Word. Our sinlessness is partially his responsibility. He is to guide me to the holy life that God requires and protect me from sin. A husband is to love his wife like he loves his own body - feeding her, caring for her. The entire duties of a husband to his wife reflect the relationship of Christ and the Church. What a job and burden to carry out. These are times I am so glad I am a woman. Of course, I know that I have an amazing husband to follow, and I don't take that for granted. If only all men and women could realize that if they would just take on the responsibility God gave them, marriages would not be falling apart and families would be saved.

Lord, a horrible plague is attacking our marriages. Show us how to live out the sacred covenant You have designed and to keep it holy. Lord, we desperately need Your help and guidance now.

Further Thoughts:

The first line of defense in our marriages is our own commitment to the Lord. Are you walking with God in full devotion. He wants completely surrender in all areas of your life, not just the convenient ones. Let Him have everything.
Secondly, are you being the spouse that God called you to be? What needs working on? How are you going to make a change? Do you need tools or accountability? Get them!
If I had to boil down marriage into one word it would be "selflessness." If you give all of yourself to a person that loves you, you will receive back all you need. Placing each other second only to God is His only plan.
See also my blog on the marriage passage in Ephesians.

Colossians 3:12-17 "Clothe Yourselves, Part 2"

2009-05-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 3:12-17.

"... clothe yourselves...." NIV

Paul continues to teach us how to live as a member of the body of Christ and in His likeness. God has really been working on me in the area of forgiveness over the last couple of years. We all have people that hurt us at many different levels. Some things we can just brush off; others cause deep wounds that leave ugly scars. The main point to remember is that I'm not perfect; God forgave me; so I should forgive others. Easy words to say, but can be very difficult to live out.

The Word says that all of these virtues should be bound together with love. Love is not an affection, but a choice. This is an agape love -- the same sacrificial love that God has for me. I must live out my life in His love.

Then out of that love wrapped around all those virtues, we can live in the peace of Christ Jesus. Paul is beginning to sound a little like he's calling us to a 60's love fest, but he's right. We can have a peace that passes all understanding. We can forgive as we have been forgiven. We can love with the love that comes from the Father. These are all promises that we can stand on. And in a world of chaos, confusion, and fear why would I want to live any other way? I am thankful that He makes all of these things possible.

So I will hang close to the body -- helping others to grow in the Word and in wisdom, and they will help me. Worshipping together. Living and loving together. All for His honor and glory.

Further Thoughts:

Is there someone you need to forgive that you haven't yet? Now is the time. Hurt may remain, relationships may change, but forgiveness is a choice that is possible. Do it in love.
Peace is a relative term. Are you living in a state of peace that you have defined or are you taking into account other's perspective of peace and accommodating them? Love would look out for the others over self.
Twice in this passage it speaks of "giving thanks." When was the last time you gave thanks to the Father for something other than the meal you were about to eat? Take some time each day to express your thanks to the Father. We have so much to be thankful for.

Colossians 3:12-17 "Clothe Yourselves, Part 1"

2009-05-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 3:12-17.

"Therefore, as God's chosen people holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves." NIV

Paul has made it very clear that our old self has died, and we are made new in Christ. He has pointed out the continual choices we must make to avoid the evil things of the earth. We must participate in an active avoiding and run from the temptations that are always before us.

We have been cleansed and warned, now, as "holy and dearly loved" children of the Almighty, we must actively put on some things. Christ cleansed us from the old ways, but we must choose to put on the new. It doesn't happen automatically. We are on a transformational journey, not a quick-change moment. So we work (and it is work) to consciously seek to wear the character of Christ. God may choose to confront us with one of these at a time, but we must actively be working on them to be more like Him.

Compassion: Merriam-Webster's definition is "sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it." This takes a purposeful desire to put away selfishness and really look at other people. I must set aside my agenda and serve them. The human mindset of "it's all about me" just doesn't cut it. I must take time to look, listen, and act on another person's behalf to truly show compassion.

Kindness: How we treat others. Do we bad-mouth them or lift them up? Do we give people the benefit of the doubt or condemn outright? Do we compliment or tear down? Do we show the respect that all human beings desire and deserve?

Humility: "The state of being humble" which is "not proud or haughty : not arrogant or assertive" (Merriam-Webster) Without humility we can easily take on an attitude of "I am better than you. I am above you." Which can lead to "You are not worth my time." Also, a lack of humility can cause us to be judgmental. We are unable to extend grace because in our haughtiness we conveniently forget that we too are imperfect, saved-by-grace sinners. And without humility, we can succumb to the temptations of a god complex. In our pride, we think we are doing everything by our power and deny the true authority in Christ. So many ways to stubble when we ignore the need to embrace humility.

Gentleness: "the quality or state of being gentle ; especially : mildness of manners or disposition" And gentle is "free from harshness, sternness, or violence." (Merriam-Webster) I don't know how many times God has made "gentleness" my word for the year. You'd think I would get it by now, but He's still working on me. (I just want to be like Sister Teresa.) In confrontations, gentleness allows us to calm the savage beast of anger and frustration in others. When we answer affronts with gentleness, the enemy is disarmed. They have no where to go with their anger because you are not being hurt or affected. When we discipline our children in gentleness, we are instructing instead of lashing out. Even when Christ was angry with the disciples, He maintained a gentle spirit.

Patience: Of course this is the act of being patient. Patient is defined as "bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint; manifesting forbearance under provocation or strain; not hasty or impetuous; steadfast despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity." (Merriam-Webster) Wow, that's a lot to live up to. No wonder I have such a difficult time with this one.

The great thing is with patience and all the other virtues, I don't have to master them on my own. I choose to clothe myself, but it is Christ who actually makes me into this person. It is by His transforming power that any of this is even possible. I am to allow myself to be the clay in the Master Potter's hands. He alone will be able to mold me into the Christ-like character that He calls me to live. I just need to agree to get dressed.

Further Thoughts:

Find examples of Christ exemplifying each of these characteristics.
What are ways the five characteristics will overlap with one another?
What area is Christ working on with you right now? How are you doing?
Find other Scriptures on each of these characteristics and memorize the ones pertaining to your growth right now.

Colossians 3:3-11 "Hide Away"

2009-05-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 3:3-11.

"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." NIV

I love that I am now "hidden" with Christ in God. When Shay was about two years old, we'd play hide and seek with him. Jim would take Lauren and help her, and I would help Shay. One night, I hid him in a pile of 15 stuffed animals arranged on his floor. It was very ET-esk. All you saw was this little boy's head in among bear, duck, and dog heads. And he was good, too. All he moved were his eyes. Lauren never saw him, and it took Jim a while, too. When anyone looked at the stuffed animals, all they saw was a montage of stuffed animals.

This is what I imagine it means to be hidden with Christ in God. We just melt away from the direct view of mankind, and what they see is God, not me. That's the goal anyway. Unfortunately, there are things that we must put to death for that to happen in its clearest form.

Sometimes we can just fly over these lists of traits that we need to rid our life of and fail to really think how those words translate into the actions of our present society. So let's break it down.

sexual immorality
impurity
lust
evil desires
greed (idolatry)
anger
rage
malice: wanting to cause another pain or wish them ill will.
slander
filthy language
lying

Here's the way The Message says it:

3:5: And that means killing off everything connected with that way of death: sexual promiscuity, impurity, lust, doing whatever you feel like whenever you feel like it, and grabbing whatever attracts your fancy. That's a life shaped by things and feelings instead of by God.

3:6: It's because of this kind of thing that God is about to explode in anger.

3:7: It wasn't long ago that you were doing all that stuff and not knowing any better.

3:8: But you know better now, so make sure it's all gone for good: bad temper, irritability, meanness, profanity, dirty talk.

3:9: Don't lie to one another. You're done with that old life. It's like a filthy set of ill-fitting clothes you've stripped off and put in the fire.

3:10: Now you're dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete.

It's impossible to hide ourselves in Christ if we continue to clothe ourselves with the evil of the world. They are in stark contrast to one another and by the way, we know better. If we take off these things, people will see Jesus, not our sin. Do you want to be hidden in Him?

Further Thoughts:

Read through the list of "put offs" again. What ones do you need to work getting rid of? Why do you hang onto it?
Another way of asking question one is, "When people look at you, do they see Christ or one of those sins listed above?"
What other Scripture talks about putting off the old self?

Colossians 3:1-2 "Check Out the View"

2009-05-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 3:1-2.

"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." NIV

Wow, chapter 3 is so chocked full of information. We don't see the rules of man, but now we are simply looking at God's laws for how we live our life.

First of all, we have to get the right perspective. We live here on earth in the muck and mire, joys and celebrations that is called life. Everyday we get up, go through a morning routine, go to work or school, interact with others, meet challenges -- sometimes succeeding, sometimes failing. We come home, again interacting with others, this time family -- sometimes succeeding, sometimes failing. We go out with friends or to evening activities or meetings. Come home, unmask, and go to bed. Those are the bare bones of most people's existence to some degree or another. Now in there are interspersed many joyful times and some tragic. Some messy relationships and some amazing friendships. We face temptations and fight discouragement. We experience creative moments that overwhelm us and views of stars and vistas that leave us in awe.

But through all these events, minus a few airplane rides, our perspective is firmly grasped in an earthly view. We see all things linear -- in time and space. There is a beginning to all things and an end. We work, we go home. We cook a meal, eat it, and clean it up. We start projects and finish them. We live, we die.

But God is calling us to a higher perspective -- His view. He's telling us to separate ourselves from this earth, and it's trappings and limitations, and see life as He sees it. We are children of the King and the King is telling us to take a look from the throne room. The view is much different from that angle. The foggy places are clear. The darkness is seen darker, and where the light shines, we are blinded by its brilliance. He's saying that we should see ourselves and our simply little lives from His perspective and embodied in the His view of who we are and what our purpose is. The Almighty invites us to look through His eyes to a hope and a future -- to a better way that rises above the complexities of this earth so we can live in it but not be of it. Will you take a look? The view is amazing.

Further Thoughts:

Compare and contrast Paul's life before Christ and after. How did his perspective change?
Why do we get stuck in the earthly perspective? What breaks down to make that happen?
When are the times that you have seen as God sees?
What view do you have right now? Why?

Colossians 2:16-23 "The Heart of the Matter"

2009-05-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 2:16-23.

"Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility, and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining the sensual indulgence." NIV

Again, I know that Paul is addressing the heresy that was permeating the church at Colosse, but I have a really hard time not equating this passage to the division of denominations today. Don't misunderstand me -- I am a member of a denomination and support it as best as I can. But I can't ignore the fact that denominations are man made and can be a hiding place for personal agendas. Against drinking? Be a Wesleyan. For drinking? Be a Presbyterian. Against women in ministry? Baptist. For speaking in tongues? Assembly of God. For ritual? Episcopalian. And those are all Christian denominations. But my question is are denominations and their distinctive doctrines biblical?

Denominations were beginning to informally form in Paul's day. But the dramatic branching probably occurred at the time of Martin Luther's 95 Theses and the Protestant Reformation. I think Paul, if he could, would apply this passage to the denominations today. So many do's and don'ts apply that are not from the Bible or loosely based on interpretations from the Bible and from personal biases.

I could ramble on about this all day, but I don't intend this post to be a denomination bashing. Here's the bottom line. Paul points out in verse 23 the problems that arise with man made rules -- even those that are based on Scripture. But the answer is not what we are doing or not doing. The answer lies in where is our heart and to whom is it devoted? I'm so thankful that I will be judged not by church leadership and how well I followed the rules, but by the Father who knows my heart. True change can only occur there.

Further Thoughts:

Keeping in mind that there are no perfect denominations, are you following "rules" or the Word of God? Take some time to really think this through. It's easy to admire a group of people and want to be like them. Then just accept everything they say at face value. Think it through for yourself.
Is your heart totally surrendered to Christ and His ways? Do you base everything you do on loving and serving Him? That's the heart.

Colossians 2:13-15 "A Defeated Foe"

2009-05-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 2:13-15.

"And having disarmed the powers and authorities he made a spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross." NIV

Paul is still addressing the false teachings that were bombarding the church of Colosse. But there are so many truths here that are applicable to our lives as believers today.

We are no longer bound by the "written code with its regulations." Christ took all of that on Himself, and made us free to have a direct relationship with God. Our relationship is not based on do's and don'ts, but on love, grace, and surrender.

But here's the part I really want to focus on -- He "disarmed the powers and authorities." When Christ submitted to hang on a cross for our sins, the enemies -- visible and invisible -- were conquered. We are no longer bound to the written code but we are also not bound to the enemy's power either. Since the sinful nature is destroyed, we are not only given power over it, but over the enemy, as well. We have been gifted an authority over the minions of Satan and even Satan himself. He has no power over us that we do not give to him.

How often do we give the enemy the power he does not rightfully have? We yield to his temptations. We flirt with his enticements. We allow compromise to creep in. We fail to remain diligent and become lukewarm in our devotion and faith. We live in defeat and depression denying our rightful joy. We simply hand all our authority over to the enemy wrapped up with a silver bow.

But it doesn't have to be that way, and it's time we retake our authority back. Not with political petitions or propaganda emails, but in each individual heart and life. Sometimes we can try to swing too far the opposite direction and become God on earth. We are not meant to have control over this earth; we are meant to make a difference in it by His power and authority. No matter what we see happening around us, the enemy is defeated if we take claim over the power given to us by the Father. It's a leap of faith and every individual believer must make the leap by themselves. No one can do it for them. The promise is there. Claim it; live it. No longer serve a defeated foe; but live in the power of the Almighty.

Further Thoughts:

Are you trapped in a defeatist mindset? Why? What do you need to do to claim power over the enemy?
No one in the Bible served God by overthrowing the present political regime. How did they serve Him?
What is the connection between claiming the power of Christ within us and prayer? Support with Scripture.

Colossians 2:11-12 "Surgery Complete"

2009-05-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 2:11-12.

"In him you were also circumcised...." NIV

"Circumcision" It's interesting how one word can bring both horror and complete joy. It just all depends on whose power is at work. I was just reading the other day in an autobiography about female circumcision in Somalia. Horrific mutilation and pain. God definitely has nothing to do with that practice. It's pure evil.

But Christ offers the circumcision of our sinful nature. Now there is where the joy comes in. I always imagine that I had a huge black spot on my heart that desires to sin. Christ takes a very precise laser knife and cuts out the spot freeing me forever of the sinful nature that plagues me.

It's interesting to look at sin from a Christian's perspective. I no longer have a desire to sin. But I am still tempted by sin. And I still sometimes fall and succumb to it. (Thank the Lord that forgiveness and grace isn't all used up with our initial repentance.) But the desire to go after sin is gone.

Now, I'm not battling the curse that I was born with as much as the enemy's lurings to get me to turn. But because I am filled with a power that is so much greater than he is, I can resist those temptations. I am not weak in my sin. I am strong in the power of Jesus Christ. I have the shield of faith protecting me from the fiery darts. I am a new creation. The old is dead having been cut out of my living tissue. It no longer has anything to sustain it. But I'm not maimed from the surgery. I am made whole through my Lord and can face any temptation thrown at me. I can live in joy rather than fear. I can live in victory rather than defeat. My God is in control, not the remnants of an ancient curse placed upon me. My choice has been made and my future made sure. I am alive in Christ and His power.

Further Thoughts:

Do you still live in the defeat of the sinful nature? Why? If you've received Christ, it was taken away. You can face the enemy now because the power of Christ in the fullness of the Deity lives within you. The curse is gone.
Face temptations today with power and joy. You are an overcomer through Him.
Research the "shield of faith."

Colossians 2:9-10 "The Fullness"

2009-05-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 2:9-10.

"For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives...." NIV

Wow, I don't think I've ever realized the richness of Colossians before. I can't move forward more than a couple of verses at a time. I keep getting stopped dead in my tracks.

Here, Paul is very clearly declaring the divinity of Christ. The fullness of the Deity would be all power and authority that God holds, Christ equally holds. There is no separation of duties, no hierarchy of position. Equal beings with equal powers. One and the same.

Paul is obviously addressing the heresy of the Gnostics that was so rampant at the time. But his "proclamations" (See May 2nd post.) of Christ as Deity is relevant to the foundations of the beliefs of all Christians. If we are going to be Christ-followers, rooted in Him and His power, we must know that we are following the one true God. God incarnate -- full and complete though in human form. And that is exactly what Paul is declaring here.

I love the word, fullness. Christ was not just part God. He didn't just get the spectacular miracle-worker part. He didn't just embody the great orator portion of God. He was completely God in all aspects. He was the all-knowing, all-seeing God. Nothing was hidden from Christ in knowledge or power. He was all He could be as God.

Now here's the kicker -- because Christ was all He could be as God (fullness of the Deity), we are all we can be in Christ (been given fullness in Christ.) I am absolutely as complete in Him as I can be on this earth. What all that completeness includes will be discussed in the rest of Chapter 2, but for right now, I just bask in the great mystery and wonder that I have been given fullness in Christ. And in that fullness, I am truly free!

Further Thoughts:

Search for other passages that address the Deity of Christ.
We will continue to grow while on this earth, but do you live as one that is complete in Christ? If no, what needs to change?
How would your life change if you truly lived the fullness of Christ?

Colossians 2:1-8 "Rooted in the True Source"

2009-05-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 2:1-8.

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." NIV

I'm teaching Biology 1 to my 14-year-old right now. We are studying Kingdom Plantae - or for you laymen, plants. :) Just this week we were discussing how water moves up the roots of a plant to the leaves. Scientists actually don't know for sure how this happens, but their theory -- the cohesion-tension theory -- is this. As the stomata (tiny pores) in the leaves open for photosynthesis to happen, the water in the leaves evaporates out of the pores. Since water molecules really want to stay together -- they have a really tight bond with one another -- as the water evaporates, the molecules below them rush upward to stay near the higher ones. Then the molecules below those rush up to stay with the ones above them. The follow-the-leader water molecules continue pulling water up into the xylem (a transportation pathway) in the roots through the stem out the petioles to the leaves until the stomata close for the night and evaporation stops. Pretty cool theory, huh. The trick is the root must be in wet soil to have a supply of water to draw from.

Verse six says that we are to be rooted in Christ Jesus. He is our "water/nutrient" supply. Without the water He provides, our leaves will wilt and if completely cut off from His supply, eventually die. We have to have his nourishment to continue to live spiritually. Water from any other source will seem to be helpful, but actually is doing nothing but starving us to death. You see, a plant receives all its water and nutrients from what the roots draw up from the soil. Water that has fallen directly onto the leaves does not feed the plant. Other beliefs and philosophies, even Christian traditions, cannot fill us up and grow us up spiritually. They will just sprinkle us with useless droplets. But the real power for our existence comes from Jesus Christ and Him alone. His power flows up from the depths of our being, keeping us standing straight and strong, growing and shining for His glory. Don't you just love how God's creation illustrates His character?

Further Thoughts:

What or whom do you have your roots planted in? Are you putting too much faith in the droplets on your leaves?
What does Scripture say about false prophets or listening to man over God?
How do we keep our roots firmly planted in Christ Jesus?

Colossians 1:28-29 "The Proclamation"

2009-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 1:28-29.

"We proclaim him...." NIV

The word "proclaim" according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary means "to declare publicly, typically insistently, proudly, or defiantly and in either speech or writing : announce b: to give outward indication of : show." The third definition is "to praise or glorify openly or publicly : extol." Notice that proclaiming is three-fold: announcing, showing and extolling.

Announcing would be telling others about Christ in word or writing. Getting the message out and releasing the mystery. There's a dying world out there, and it is our job to "proclaim" Christ to them.

Showing would be living out what we are proclaiming. Christ within us makes us a new creation. The old is gone, and we should guard ourselves from ever letting it creep back into our lives. We must live exemplary lives modeled after Christ. Will we be perfect? No. But others must see an attractive difference in the way we live.

Extolling is never shrinking from praising God openly and boldly. Right now we have the freedom to do this in most places. But in our workplace and in schools, we have been restricted. Other religions haven't, but Christianity sure has. We have to find a way to keep our jobs and remain loyal to our Lord.

Our proclamation of our Lord admonishes and teaches others in wisdom so all of us may continue to grow and become even more like Christ. This is a constant battle against the enemy, and will be till we die or He returns, whichever comes first. (I vote for Him returning:) The consolation in all this is that the battle is not ours. We labor and struggle, as Paul says, in His energy. That is so awesome because I sure don't have enough energy to do it by myself. If I have access to the power of the Almighty Creator of the Universe, then I'm going to take it. That way, I'm assured of the outcome -- victory. (Have you read the end of the book?)

Further Thoughts:

Are you living a "proclaiming" life? Why or why not?
What are some practical ways in your life you can proclaim Jesus Christ?
Look up Scriptures on living by the power of God.

Colossians 1:24-27 "Mystery Revealed"

2009-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Read Colossians 1:24-27.

"...the mystery that has been kept hidden....is now disclosed." NIV

The mystery. Paul uses this term very deliberately here because the "mystery religions" believed that truth was revealed to only a select few. However, every time Paul uses the word "mystery," he always combines it with "revealed," disclosed," "made known," because what was hidden is now revealed. There are no mysteries other that those that God chooses to keep from everyone. (i.e. When Christ will return, etc.) The hope of mankind is out there in the form of Jesus Christ. Everyone has access to Him. Everyone can receive their rhema through the Word of God. Different people have different giftings in the body of Christ, the Church, but all people have access to know God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. He's available to anyone, not just a few chosen ones. So Paul's statements here were very much directed at the problems creeping into the church in Colosse at the time.

But the truth of his message is eternal.

I love mysteries. I read voraciously (when I'm not on a writing deadline.) And mostly I read mysteries and thrillers. They are my favorite. I see how fast I can figure the outcome based on the clues. My favorite thing is to compare with other people reading the same book and see if I solved the mystery before them. (Okay, I'm a little competitive.)

My point is, what is the basic premise of any mystery? There's an answer that is hidden from general knowledge; there are clues to that answer; the clues accumulate until the protagonist of the story figures out the answer, and the mystery is solved. Paul is saying here that Jesus did exist; He was the plan all along. But God had hidden Him from us until the right time. We had clues in the prophet's revelations, but even the clues got messed up. The Jews understood a Messiah was coming, but they thought a great warrior/political leader would come in and rescue them from their oppressors. They still believe that. But in God's great wisdom, the mystery is revealed outside of our paradigm and expectations. Christ came in the humble example of how we are to live our lives. And now we have the hope of glory..... Hmmm, never saw that one coming.....

Further Thoughts:

Look up OT Scriptures that are revelations (clues) of Christ's coming as a baby and Savior.
Do you believe and live as one who is a recipient of God's revelations? Or do you rely on others that you think are "the chosen" to reveal God's truth? If yes, why? Is that biblical?
Research the Greek words, logos and rhema.
Ask God to reveal Himself and His wisdom to you today. (Where in Scripture does He promise to answer that request?)