Our family has just moved into our new rental home, and so much has been happening both at church and with the moving process. About 85% of our things have been taken out of boxes, and books primarily remain packed. Our new house will not have an operational land-line or Internet connection until February 10th, so our daily routine is to go somewhere so we can hurriedly check e-mails, do our banking, etc. Needless to say, blogging will be nearly impossible for the next couple weeks!
Where do I begin in explaining the "hecticity" of our lives right now? Saturday night we were in a car accident (everyone ok, we were not at fault) so the back of the car is smashed in. The back window exploded and is now covered with cling wrap and tape (not pretty, but effective!) which greatly limits our carrying capacity! I am happy to say that the car in front of us which we hit suffered very minor damage, just traded a little paint. Two of the five cars involved were towed away, so we are blessed to still have a functional vehicle.
Today we're off to buy furniture, tomorrow we have Women's Bible study at church and visitation, Thursday another meeting is likely, Friday I need to take the car to be assessed, and all day Saturday we are going to the youth camp held by our fellowship which includes a baptism...and somewhere in between I need to prepare for a couple of messages, pray, and spend time with the family. Praise God that our times are in His hands, and our lives are bound up in His. God is good, and His mercy endures to all generations!
Thanks for keeping up with the blog and be sure to check in occasionally because it won't be long before we're back in the swing of things. May God bless you richly!
31 January 2011
28 January 2011
Inner Alchemy?
While driving down Old Windsor Road I saw a company name written on a vehicle which interested me: it read something to the effect of "Inner Alchemy Massage Therapy." Alchemy is a fascinating subject because it has never been successful. Like Rumpelstiltskin turned straw into gold, people through the ages have tried to use chemical means to change worthless or cheap metals into valuable ones. No matter how many chemicals a person adds to lead or tin, it will never become platinum or gold.
The company name I read illustrates the fact that man thinks that by stimulating the body or mind with religion, philosophy, or exercise, he can purify himself. Is it possible that a massage of muscles can increase the value of my soul? This is a far stretch! And why, if man believes himself naturally good (which he is not - that is why we lock our doors, protect our personal details, and buy pepper-spray), do we need any "inner alchemy" at all? Man has been born into sin, and no amount of pampering or make-up or holidays will change this. Our chemical imbalances pale in comparison to our spiritual negligence. No amount of counseling or psycho-therapy will solve our sin-problem: only Jesus can purify our hearts from sin!
There is much a man can do to make himself a better person from without, but no man can begin to be good inside without the saving grace and power of Jesus Christ within. All attempts at alchemy have failed, and so has every attempt of man to draw near to God by his own "goodness." Religion churns out devils, but Jesus redeems sinners and makes them saints. How many men in a vain attempt to earn the favor of God have denied themselves of God's grace and perished eternally, while those who cry out "O LORD be merciful to me a sinner!" have entered into life eternal. Praise God for the transformation He alone can do! He does not change us from one element to another, but a complete change from death to life. Thank Him for that!
The company name I read illustrates the fact that man thinks that by stimulating the body or mind with religion, philosophy, or exercise, he can purify himself. Is it possible that a massage of muscles can increase the value of my soul? This is a far stretch! And why, if man believes himself naturally good (which he is not - that is why we lock our doors, protect our personal details, and buy pepper-spray), do we need any "inner alchemy" at all? Man has been born into sin, and no amount of pampering or make-up or holidays will change this. Our chemical imbalances pale in comparison to our spiritual negligence. No amount of counseling or psycho-therapy will solve our sin-problem: only Jesus can purify our hearts from sin!
There is much a man can do to make himself a better person from without, but no man can begin to be good inside without the saving grace and power of Jesus Christ within. All attempts at alchemy have failed, and so has every attempt of man to draw near to God by his own "goodness." Religion churns out devils, but Jesus redeems sinners and makes them saints. How many men in a vain attempt to earn the favor of God have denied themselves of God's grace and perished eternally, while those who cry out "O LORD be merciful to me a sinner!" have entered into life eternal. Praise God for the transformation He alone can do! He does not change us from one element to another, but a complete change from death to life. Thank Him for that!
24 January 2011
The Atheist's Dilemma
People are dynamic and unique, and no two share the same personality. To claim to speak for all people is simply impossible, though we all share similar needs and natures. As I was cleaning a pool this morning, I was thinking about atheism, a belief system that claims "there is no God." There are some who might claim this is an oversimplification, but the basic premise is the assertion God does not exist.
There may be many reasons that brings a person to this stance. Atheism stands in defiance of God and places self as a substitute. The allure of atheism for many is there is no right or wrong, no Supreme Being that must be contended with, no judgment, and no hope of life after death. In this world a man can become like God, doing what is right in his own eyes without eternal consequence. This was the same advice and argument present by Satan to Eve in the Garden of Eden: Genesis 3:4-5 reads, "...You will not surely die. 5 For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil. " In essence the devil said, "What God says doesn't matter. If you eat the fruit you will be like God and can make your own rules." This proposition tempts people to this day.
The irony of claiming "there is no God" is that in doing so man makes himself a god. He can live without confessing his sin to another and sit in God's judgment seat of himself and others. The Bible speaks clearly concerning those who are deluded to deny the True God who has created all things. Romans 1:16-23 says: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "The just shall live by faith." 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man--and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things."
I rejoice in the God of the universe, by whom all things have been created. While atheists have no hope in this life beyond themselves and random chance, I am rooted upon a sure eternal foundation of Jesus Christ, in whom I stand by faith. No guilt, no shame, and no condemnation I harbor in my soul, for He has cleansed me of all my sin. I delight in submission to His will, for it is God who has purchased me that He might be glorified. This hope is for all people who will humble themselves, repent, and trust in Christ as Savior, LORD, and God. Jeremiah 3:22-24 says, "Return, you backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings." "Indeed we do come to You, for You are the LORD our God. 23 Truly, in vain is salvation hoped for from the hills, and from the multitude of mountains; truly, in the LORD our God is the salvation of Israel."
What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul (Matt. 16:26)? What will it profit a man to live as a god on earth and perish like the devil in hell, when God has offered redemption through His own blood (Acts 20:28)? Come to Jesus everyone, and find rest for your souls.
There may be many reasons that brings a person to this stance. Atheism stands in defiance of God and places self as a substitute. The allure of atheism for many is there is no right or wrong, no Supreme Being that must be contended with, no judgment, and no hope of life after death. In this world a man can become like God, doing what is right in his own eyes without eternal consequence. This was the same advice and argument present by Satan to Eve in the Garden of Eden: Genesis 3:4-5 reads, "...You will not surely die. 5 For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil. " In essence the devil said, "What God says doesn't matter. If you eat the fruit you will be like God and can make your own rules." This proposition tempts people to this day.
The irony of claiming "there is no God" is that in doing so man makes himself a god. He can live without confessing his sin to another and sit in God's judgment seat of himself and others. The Bible speaks clearly concerning those who are deluded to deny the True God who has created all things. Romans 1:16-23 says: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "The just shall live by faith." 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man--and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things."
I rejoice in the God of the universe, by whom all things have been created. While atheists have no hope in this life beyond themselves and random chance, I am rooted upon a sure eternal foundation of Jesus Christ, in whom I stand by faith. No guilt, no shame, and no condemnation I harbor in my soul, for He has cleansed me of all my sin. I delight in submission to His will, for it is God who has purchased me that He might be glorified. This hope is for all people who will humble themselves, repent, and trust in Christ as Savior, LORD, and God. Jeremiah 3:22-24 says, "Return, you backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings." "Indeed we do come to You, for You are the LORD our God. 23 Truly, in vain is salvation hoped for from the hills, and from the multitude of mountains; truly, in the LORD our God is the salvation of Israel."
What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul (Matt. 16:26)? What will it profit a man to live as a god on earth and perish like the devil in hell, when God has offered redemption through His own blood (Acts 20:28)? Come to Jesus everyone, and find rest for your souls.
23 January 2011
Love is Genuine
1 Corinthians 13:1-8 describes God's love in this manner: "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor,4 Love suffers long and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away."
God's love is so contrary to anything in this world. We cannot quantify it, sum it up in a sentence, or even explain it fully. It is infinite in abundance yet a single selfless deed can portray it clearly. It is a power more earth-shattering than a million atomic bombs, yet is peaceable and gentle. Countless books have been written about God's love and all the sermons ever preached have scarcely explored its depths. A man might as well try to free-dive the Mariana trench or jump to Jupiter: those physical feats would be simple in comparison to discovering the furthest reaches of God's love. Real love is something every person deeply longs for, but only those who have been born again from above can begin to digest, process, or comprehend it.
People are fed up with hearing about the love of God. Love is not something to be talked about but continually lived out. As Christians we should not merely ask, "Who can I tell of God's love today?" but rather, "How shall I display the love of Jesus to people today?" To put it simply, the love that God gives is displayed through a genuine, gracious interest in others even to my own detriment. I should not serve others to receive anything in return, and do not speak to people simply for the opportunity to give them a sales pitch.
There is nothing more practical, generous, and gracious than love. Love meets real needs. The wages of sin is death, and the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. Because all have sinned, all are condemned to die and remained separated from God in hell for eternity. Then the love of God sprung into action as Romans 5:7-8 proclaims: "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us ." Love is a not a demonstration like a salesman with his knives at a fair, but is practical, tangible, and undeniable display of regard for others.
Christ is the only true source of this love. The world has substituted lust for love, and worshiped the creation over the Creator. It is up to those in whom God has placed the Holy Spirit to be ambassadors of the love of Christ, not only to be talked about, but to be practically displayed. As Jesus says in John 15:10, "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love." And what are the greatest commandments? Love the LORD our God with all our heart, soul, and strength, and love our neighbors as ourselves. In fact, Jesus trumps the second command by saying, "Love one another as I have loved you." And how did Jesus love? Compassionately, continually, and completely. May God be free to pour out His love through us!
God's love is so contrary to anything in this world. We cannot quantify it, sum it up in a sentence, or even explain it fully. It is infinite in abundance yet a single selfless deed can portray it clearly. It is a power more earth-shattering than a million atomic bombs, yet is peaceable and gentle. Countless books have been written about God's love and all the sermons ever preached have scarcely explored its depths. A man might as well try to free-dive the Mariana trench or jump to Jupiter: those physical feats would be simple in comparison to discovering the furthest reaches of God's love. Real love is something every person deeply longs for, but only those who have been born again from above can begin to digest, process, or comprehend it.
People are fed up with hearing about the love of God. Love is not something to be talked about but continually lived out. As Christians we should not merely ask, "Who can I tell of God's love today?" but rather, "How shall I display the love of Jesus to people today?" To put it simply, the love that God gives is displayed through a genuine, gracious interest in others even to my own detriment. I should not serve others to receive anything in return, and do not speak to people simply for the opportunity to give them a sales pitch.
There is nothing more practical, generous, and gracious than love. Love meets real needs. The wages of sin is death, and the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. Because all have sinned, all are condemned to die and remained separated from God in hell for eternity. Then the love of God sprung into action as Romans 5:7-8 proclaims: "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us ." Love is a not a demonstration like a salesman with his knives at a fair, but is practical, tangible, and undeniable display of regard for others.
Christ is the only true source of this love. The world has substituted lust for love, and worshiped the creation over the Creator. It is up to those in whom God has placed the Holy Spirit to be ambassadors of the love of Christ, not only to be talked about, but to be practically displayed. As Jesus says in John 15:10, "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love." And what are the greatest commandments? Love the LORD our God with all our heart, soul, and strength, and love our neighbors as ourselves. In fact, Jesus trumps the second command by saying, "Love one another as I have loved you." And how did Jesus love? Compassionately, continually, and completely. May God be free to pour out His love through us!
20 January 2011
Official Crazy Time
It's been a good experience to have the family with me in Australia. It has demanded many changes from my normal routine of writing, exercise, and visitation. Because Laura is not driving yet, it has also meant that all errands have become a family adventure! We've also been sharing the same computer, so the time that I could spend preparing sermons, communicating with people, and blogging has been adjusted to accommodate us both.
Yesterday we were able to spend an afternoon at Featherdale Wildlife Park. A collection of animals hailing almost exclusively from Australia, this park provides a wonderful opportunity to see, touch, and experience these beautiful creatures up close. We were able to pet koalas, emus, kangaroos, wallabys, blue-tongued lizards, kookaburras, and tawny frogmouths (both birds, two of my favorites!). We watched as the penguins were fed (yes, I'm told Sydney is home to penguins which can be seen in the harbour), as well as the dingos and Tasmanian devils eat dinner. While we were near the penguin exhibit we had a unique experience: I heard a loud thump or crash, and suddenly I saw ten people scamper in every direction. A goanna (an Australian monitor lizard) nearly two meters long had jumped from his sign to the top of the wall of his enclosure. He nimbly dropped to the ground, ignoring the amazed people who kept their distance, and waddled over to some bushes where he was promptly hauled out by a park employee. He told us that one of the handlers years ago needed 300 stitches to close a wound on his arm inflicted when he tried to stop two of them from fighting! Glad to say no one was injured, and I love Featherdale more than ever!
Today is a day we've long been anticipating as a family, the day when we pick up the keys for our rental house. It is a very exciting accomplishment, having spent over three months actively searching for a property with an owner willing to rent to us. We have not rented for over twelve years, and certainly have no Australian renting history! In Sydney (I have no experience dealing with real estate in other territories or cities), if you desire to submit an application for a property you MUST physically go to the open house to be considered - which is a grand total of 15 minutes in duration! These 15 minute open houses can be far apart or a struggle to make on time because of traffic or other obstacles. Needless to say, this involves a LOT of driving around! Many thanks to Ross and Peter and all of those who have labored with us in this endeavor. The funny thing is, after all the applications we submitted without success, the day our first application is finally accepted, we were accepted to rent two properties! The property we finally did choose has a year rental agreement, and is one of the best houses we've seen during the last three months. Praise the LORD!
I suppose I'm not sure how often I will be able to blog in the coming week or two because of church meetings, moving house, buying appliances, driving all over town...it's officially crazy time! We are blessed to be loved and supported by people all over the world, and our fellowship in Sydney is very precious to us. Our family is experiencing that same gracious, miraculous provision that our Savior is faithful to grant those who trust in Him. He knows when a sparrow falls to the ground or when a goanna scuttles out of his enclosure: how much more shall He provide for all our needs?
Today is a day we've long been anticipating as a family, the day when we pick up the keys for our rental house. It is a very exciting accomplishment, having spent over three months actively searching for a property with an owner willing to rent to us. We have not rented for over twelve years, and certainly have no Australian renting history! In Sydney (I have no experience dealing with real estate in other territories or cities), if you desire to submit an application for a property you MUST physically go to the open house to be considered - which is a grand total of 15 minutes in duration! These 15 minute open houses can be far apart or a struggle to make on time because of traffic or other obstacles. Needless to say, this involves a LOT of driving around! Many thanks to Ross and Peter and all of those who have labored with us in this endeavor. The funny thing is, after all the applications we submitted without success, the day our first application is finally accepted, we were accepted to rent two properties! The property we finally did choose has a year rental agreement, and is one of the best houses we've seen during the last three months. Praise the LORD!
I suppose I'm not sure how often I will be able to blog in the coming week or two because of church meetings, moving house, buying appliances, driving all over town...it's officially crazy time! We are blessed to be loved and supported by people all over the world, and our fellowship in Sydney is very precious to us. Our family is experiencing that same gracious, miraculous provision that our Savior is faithful to grant those who trust in Him. He knows when a sparrow falls to the ground or when a goanna scuttles out of his enclosure: how much more shall He provide for all our needs?
17 January 2011
Ol' John Owen
I'll be the first to admit that I have a soft spot for Puritain writers. Very few modern writers or readers, for that matter, can explore the depths or soar to the heights where these men dwelt spiritually. They are masters of the basic Gospel truths, and explain things with such detail and sound Biblical analysis that it is a breath of fresh air. A entire book which passes for spiritual meat these days is almost like baby food in a jar compared to the side of beef these divines slap down on a single page. The book I am enjoying right now has been re-titled Indwelling Sin in Believers by John Own and it very compelling. He clearly explains the law of sin which works in our members which Paul spoke about in Romans 7:21. Although I am not finished with the book, I already recommend it. The wisdom, practical advice, and insights into the dangers of sin which so easily besets us is quite thrilling. My heart and spirit bear witness that although this book was first written in 1667, it is completely relevant for today. I leave you with paragraphs from page 33:
I believe that most apostasy from a profession of any length begins either with some great and shameful sin which wounds the conscience and takes away all delight in having to do with God, or with a course of neglect in private duties, arising from weariness in fighting against a powerful aversion to these duties. And, through the craft of Satan, some develop the foolish and sensual opinion that one can live to God without the need for communion with Him. So we find that after men have choked and blinded their consciences for a while with this pretense, they crown their folly with cursed wickedness or sensuality. And the reasons for all this is that giving way to the law of sin gives strength to it. Leaving it alone lets it grow; not to conquer it is to be conquered by it.
What is true of private duties is also true of public duties which have anything extraordinary in them. How the heart struggles against them, especially against the spirituality of them! If we give indwelling sin the least liberty, or if we do not guard against it constantly, it will bring about result we do not expect. It begins with reluctance and indisposition, goes on to entangle the mind and affects with other things, and ends, if not prevented, in weariness of God, which He complains of in His people (Is. 43:22). They ceased to call upon Him because they were 'weary of Him.'
14 January 2011
Identity Crisis?
So much of our lives is caught up in framing our identity in relation to others. Who we truly are reaches far beyond our actions, careers, hobbies, ethnicity, family traditions, and relationships because man was created by God as a spiritual being. Yet most people are unaware of this spiritual dynamic of their lives and seek to define themselves by why they do or don't do, common interests, or natural abilities and tendencies. Birds of like feather stick together, the saying goes, and people are much the same. As long as there are people there will be cliques, clubs, fraternities, and groups where people can relish their identity together.
Today I came across a offbeat story which captured my attention. According to an article on cnn.com, people suffered from an identity crisis when they heard that the dates affixed to astrological signs shift over time. A quote from the article states, "Our identities are precious. If someone challenges our belief system, it's very threatening. You want to hold on to the fact 'at least I'm a Libra.'" This is both sad and absurd at the same time. It would be one thing to live with a tattoo of the "wrong sign" on your body, just like the tattoo of an ex-girlfriend. But for your identity to be connected to the planets and stars, or to have your choices in life governed by a sentence in your local fish-wrap is appalling!
As a Christian, my identity is found in the person of Jesus Christ, the One who does not change. The wisdom of the world, governments, hobbies, and lifestyles come and go. This is the slippery sand which the world is built upon. What appeared to be great beach-front property 50 years ago has eroded into the surf! My identity is built upon God as Creator, and I am a being created by Him. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:10, "But by the grace of God I am what I am..." I do not have to join any social groups, or conform to the opinions of others. I am free to be myself, and do not need to worry that my belief system will be challenged and fail. Truth can bear scrutiny, examination, fierce persecution, mockery, and violence. Nothing will change the fact that Jesus was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, fulfilled the promises of scripture, was crucified for my sins, rose from the dead the third day, ascended to the right hand of the Father, makes intercession for me and all His church continually, and sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower me for His glory. Jesus is also my Savior, and my life is bound up in His.
Hear the unshakable wisdom and truth of Christ from His own lips: Matthew 7:24-27 reads, "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall." Jesus is not of this world, and this is also true of those who follow Him. Planets move in their circuits, stars are born and die. To seek to construct my identity upon these temporary things is futile and meaningless. What is more stable: the swirling tides of the sea or the everlasting Chief Cornerstone, who existed before He created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them?
Today I came across a offbeat story which captured my attention. According to an article on cnn.com, people suffered from an identity crisis when they heard that the dates affixed to astrological signs shift over time. A quote from the article states, "Our identities are precious. If someone challenges our belief system, it's very threatening. You want to hold on to the fact 'at least I'm a Libra.'" This is both sad and absurd at the same time. It would be one thing to live with a tattoo of the "wrong sign" on your body, just like the tattoo of an ex-girlfriend. But for your identity to be connected to the planets and stars, or to have your choices in life governed by a sentence in your local fish-wrap is appalling!
As a Christian, my identity is found in the person of Jesus Christ, the One who does not change. The wisdom of the world, governments, hobbies, and lifestyles come and go. This is the slippery sand which the world is built upon. What appeared to be great beach-front property 50 years ago has eroded into the surf! My identity is built upon God as Creator, and I am a being created by Him. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:10, "But by the grace of God I am what I am..." I do not have to join any social groups, or conform to the opinions of others. I am free to be myself, and do not need to worry that my belief system will be challenged and fail. Truth can bear scrutiny, examination, fierce persecution, mockery, and violence. Nothing will change the fact that Jesus was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, fulfilled the promises of scripture, was crucified for my sins, rose from the dead the third day, ascended to the right hand of the Father, makes intercession for me and all His church continually, and sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower me for His glory. Jesus is also my Savior, and my life is bound up in His.
Hear the unshakable wisdom and truth of Christ from His own lips: Matthew 7:24-27 reads, "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall." Jesus is not of this world, and this is also true of those who follow Him. Planets move in their circuits, stars are born and die. To seek to construct my identity upon these temporary things is futile and meaningless. What is more stable: the swirling tides of the sea or the everlasting Chief Cornerstone, who existed before He created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them?
13 January 2011
A Place Prepared by Grace
Jesus says in John 14:1-3: "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also." It's a wonderful thought for consideration, that Jesus is preparing a home of eternal rest for us with Him in the heavens. It is built not according to our works or worthiness, but out of the riches of God's grace and love toward us. No human being save Jesus Christ is worthy to dwell in the presence of the Father. But He has promised us in Revelation 3:21: "To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne."
A good portion of these past three months have been spent working to secure a rental property for my family and me to live in while we serve God and Calvary Chapel Sydney. I'm amazed when I consider the amount of effort and time expended on the process with frankly little to show for it. The rental market in Sydney at the moment feels like an impenetrable clique! Our search has been thorough, extensive, and time-consuming. It has given us the opportunity to throw ourselves upon the mercy of God and enjoy the generous hospitality of church family. Yet it is disheartening to be continually rejected without the opportunity to prove yourself.
But this is familiar feeling experienced by people all over the world on a spiritual level. No matter how hard people work to ensure themselves salvation by their own goodness, they fall short of perfection and are without hope. Even if people are able to claw to the top of their denominational ladder, do and say all the right things, the peace of God only received through faith in Christ eludes them. Well-meaning people go on missions to obtain eldership, others pay thousands of dollars to take the next spiritual course to learn privileged secrets. People literally crucify themselves, crawl through broken glass, and travel thousands of miles in a vain attempt to earn favor from God. What they do not understand is God's grace and eternal life is not for sale. Their proud works and efforts prevent them from receiving what God only gives freely.
Ephesians 2:8-10 teaches us of God's wondrous grace: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." There are flats in Sydney that cost over $1,200 a week to rent! Some people feel proud they could afford such a place to live. God will not allow a shred of pride in heaven! The only currency God accepts for heavenly entry is repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. No amount of money, good works, or effort can help us gain entry into the presence of God. God saves us by grace through faith, and having received such a gift we are moved to labor freely for God's glory and honor. God has created us to do good, but we can only do so if He first indwells and empowers us.
How happy I am that God has prepared a place for me in heaven, as well as providing abundantly for our family in Australia. Though it has been a trying process to secure a rental property, it is good to know that our eternal destination is secure in Christ. He even has provided us a place to stay here, though it isn't what we thought it would be three months ago! It is not by our goodness that we have a place in heaven or in Australia, but all of grace! How great is our God and His unsearchable wisdom!
A good portion of these past three months have been spent working to secure a rental property for my family and me to live in while we serve God and Calvary Chapel Sydney. I'm amazed when I consider the amount of effort and time expended on the process with frankly little to show for it. The rental market in Sydney at the moment feels like an impenetrable clique! Our search has been thorough, extensive, and time-consuming. It has given us the opportunity to throw ourselves upon the mercy of God and enjoy the generous hospitality of church family. Yet it is disheartening to be continually rejected without the opportunity to prove yourself.
But this is familiar feeling experienced by people all over the world on a spiritual level. No matter how hard people work to ensure themselves salvation by their own goodness, they fall short of perfection and are without hope. Even if people are able to claw to the top of their denominational ladder, do and say all the right things, the peace of God only received through faith in Christ eludes them. Well-meaning people go on missions to obtain eldership, others pay thousands of dollars to take the next spiritual course to learn privileged secrets. People literally crucify themselves, crawl through broken glass, and travel thousands of miles in a vain attempt to earn favor from God. What they do not understand is God's grace and eternal life is not for sale. Their proud works and efforts prevent them from receiving what God only gives freely.
Ephesians 2:8-10 teaches us of God's wondrous grace: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." There are flats in Sydney that cost over $1,200 a week to rent! Some people feel proud they could afford such a place to live. God will not allow a shred of pride in heaven! The only currency God accepts for heavenly entry is repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. No amount of money, good works, or effort can help us gain entry into the presence of God. God saves us by grace through faith, and having received such a gift we are moved to labor freely for God's glory and honor. God has created us to do good, but we can only do so if He first indwells and empowers us.
How happy I am that God has prepared a place for me in heaven, as well as providing abundantly for our family in Australia. Though it has been a trying process to secure a rental property, it is good to know that our eternal destination is secure in Christ. He even has provided us a place to stay here, though it isn't what we thought it would be three months ago! It is not by our goodness that we have a place in heaven or in Australia, but all of grace! How great is our God and His unsearchable wisdom!
11 January 2011
Sympathy or Prayer?
All of Australia it seems is looking with great interest and horror as the flooding continues to increase in Queensland. During the news telecasts last night, it was repeated over and over that last week it was believed the worst had passed with the flooding of Rockhampton. A huge flash flood suddenly went through Toowoomba, and the water which surged through the town is now on its way to Brisbane which is expected to flood severely, possibly greater than the massive floods of 1974. As we watched the continuing coverage last night, Prime Minister Julia Gillard addressed those directly impacted by the floods: "Our thoughts and sympathies are with you." As I watched the footage shown again and again, I heard similar statements by journalists and politicians: "You have our thoughts and best wishes."
Coming from the United States, I sensed a cultural difference. Even non-Christians in America would say, "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those affected." It sometimes may be hypocrisy, but that is a common emphasis in times of tragedy in America: prayers. And by saying "prayers" it is an encouragement to appeal to God, clearly announcing His existence. It is commonly known that PM Julia Gillard is an atheist, so one would not expect her to pray. My question is, what is the power of "sympathy" compared to the power of God through the prayers of His people? Has sympathy caused fire to fall from heaven to consume an offering, or has sympathy made water flow from a rock? Has sympathy cured one person of disease or caused someone to rise from the grave? Has sympathy brought victory in a single battle or caused a person to receive comfort through Christ which cannot be taken away? No.
Our continual need is to seek and entreat the One True God, the Maker of Heaven and Earth, who alone is able to save. It is good and right that we sympathize and empathize with people, feeling their pain and doing what is in our power to assist. If we were to see someone swept away with a torrent of water, we ought to extend a hand to catch them, not fall to our knees and ask God to send someone to help! There are times when we can offer practical, physical assistance. But there is no assistance more practical and needed than the power of prayer! It is both the least we can do and the most we can do. Our God is able to cause the storms to cease and be still with a word, and all power and authority in heaven and on earth is the LORD's. Should we not faithfully petition such a God for help, that His name with be glorified through lives being saved and souls eternally preserved?
Please keep those who are suffering and displaced in these floods in your prayers, as well as all others throughout the world who have no power to save themselves. Pray for our Prime Minister, that she might be exposed to the powerful saving hand of God and one day say of Christ, "My LORD and my God." When faced with trials, is it your tendency to pray? Sympathy is not enough when prayer is required!
Coming from the United States, I sensed a cultural difference. Even non-Christians in America would say, "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those affected." It sometimes may be hypocrisy, but that is a common emphasis in times of tragedy in America: prayers. And by saying "prayers" it is an encouragement to appeal to God, clearly announcing His existence. It is commonly known that PM Julia Gillard is an atheist, so one would not expect her to pray. My question is, what is the power of "sympathy" compared to the power of God through the prayers of His people? Has sympathy caused fire to fall from heaven to consume an offering, or has sympathy made water flow from a rock? Has sympathy cured one person of disease or caused someone to rise from the grave? Has sympathy brought victory in a single battle or caused a person to receive comfort through Christ which cannot be taken away? No.
Our continual need is to seek and entreat the One True God, the Maker of Heaven and Earth, who alone is able to save. It is good and right that we sympathize and empathize with people, feeling their pain and doing what is in our power to assist. If we were to see someone swept away with a torrent of water, we ought to extend a hand to catch them, not fall to our knees and ask God to send someone to help! There are times when we can offer practical, physical assistance. But there is no assistance more practical and needed than the power of prayer! It is both the least we can do and the most we can do. Our God is able to cause the storms to cease and be still with a word, and all power and authority in heaven and on earth is the LORD's. Should we not faithfully petition such a God for help, that His name with be glorified through lives being saved and souls eternally preserved?
Please keep those who are suffering and displaced in these floods in your prayers, as well as all others throughout the world who have no power to save themselves. Pray for our Prime Minister, that she might be exposed to the powerful saving hand of God and one day say of Christ, "My LORD and my God." When faced with trials, is it your tendency to pray? Sympathy is not enough when prayer is required!
09 January 2011
God Speaks!
During a conversation after the Sunday morning service at Calvary Chapel Sydney, I was asked a pointed question: "Do you believe that God still speaks to people today, for instance, just like He did to Moses at the burning bush?" After thinking I replied in the affirmative: God has not changed, neither is the way He communicates with people. Though He does use the Holy Spirit to speak to us personally through He Word, He certainly can speak through dreams, visions, or even spoken voice. God is not limited to speak to us in the ways which we might expect. It is God's choice how He speaks to us, and most certainly He has spoken to us all through His Son, Jesus Christ. He is our Mediator, Intercessor, and Savior.
How wonderful it is to know that we need not rely on a certain church official, a particular rabbi or priest, or a holy man or woman to decipher and tell us what God is saying to us. From the very beginning, God spoke directly to Adam before his fall. It was because of sin that God instituted the covenant of His Law with Israel, appointing and anointing priests to serve before Him. They were a type of Christ in that they were the mediators between the people and God. The king himself would consult with God through them, to receive guidance from the King of Kings. Now Jesus has become our High Priest, and has become sin for us in offering Himself freely to atone for the sins of the world. By faith we receive forgiveness through His shed blood, and we enter into the New Covenant established upon Christ and grace.
But God, in His great wisdom, did not leave us without personal help or comfort when Christ ascended to the right hand of the Father: He sent the Holy Spirit to indwell all believers so we might be empowered, exercise spiritual gifts, and be taught all that Jesus desires to tell us. Jesus told His disciples in John 16:12-15: "I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you." Whether God speaks to us audibly from a burning bush or through His still small voice within our hearts, He still speaks with all the authority and power of an infinite, Almighty Creator and Ruler of All.
As a friend of mine and dear brother in Christ enjoys saying, "God doesn't need me." This blog is not required for you to grow spiritually in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. These writings are simply a means to encourage you to seek God more. May this blog never be a substitute for a real relationship with God! Know that you do not need anyone to draw close to Christ except Him. Now some have stretched this into error, and would claim that because only Christ is needed they do not need to be involved and serve in a church fellowship, adhere to sound doctrine, or labor to be profitable for the glory of God. God has given us each other to gird us with strength, to preserve unity, to sharpen one another, to be an encouragement, and to pray and serve together for God's glory. The fact remains that Jesus must be our All in All, and we ought to preserve that place of all honor and glory for Him alone!
God still speaks! Have you heard Him lately? I tend to hear well only when I listen. I encourage you to take some time today to seek God and listen for His voice. And when He DOES speak to you in the night hours or calls your name as He did Samuel, say "Speak LORD, for your servant hears." (Then don't roll over and try to immediately go to sleep.) What He tells you be faithful to speak and live out. Praise God that He still speaks, and may His people be faithful to listen and obey!
How wonderful it is to know that we need not rely on a certain church official, a particular rabbi or priest, or a holy man or woman to decipher and tell us what God is saying to us. From the very beginning, God spoke directly to Adam before his fall. It was because of sin that God instituted the covenant of His Law with Israel, appointing and anointing priests to serve before Him. They were a type of Christ in that they were the mediators between the people and God. The king himself would consult with God through them, to receive guidance from the King of Kings. Now Jesus has become our High Priest, and has become sin for us in offering Himself freely to atone for the sins of the world. By faith we receive forgiveness through His shed blood, and we enter into the New Covenant established upon Christ and grace.
But God, in His great wisdom, did not leave us without personal help or comfort when Christ ascended to the right hand of the Father: He sent the Holy Spirit to indwell all believers so we might be empowered, exercise spiritual gifts, and be taught all that Jesus desires to tell us. Jesus told His disciples in John 16:12-15: "I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you." Whether God speaks to us audibly from a burning bush or through His still small voice within our hearts, He still speaks with all the authority and power of an infinite, Almighty Creator and Ruler of All.
As a friend of mine and dear brother in Christ enjoys saying, "God doesn't need me." This blog is not required for you to grow spiritually in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. These writings are simply a means to encourage you to seek God more. May this blog never be a substitute for a real relationship with God! Know that you do not need anyone to draw close to Christ except Him. Now some have stretched this into error, and would claim that because only Christ is needed they do not need to be involved and serve in a church fellowship, adhere to sound doctrine, or labor to be profitable for the glory of God. God has given us each other to gird us with strength, to preserve unity, to sharpen one another, to be an encouragement, and to pray and serve together for God's glory. The fact remains that Jesus must be our All in All, and we ought to preserve that place of all honor and glory for Him alone!
God still speaks! Have you heard Him lately? I tend to hear well only when I listen. I encourage you to take some time today to seek God and listen for His voice. And when He DOES speak to you in the night hours or calls your name as He did Samuel, say "Speak LORD, for your servant hears." (Then don't roll over and try to immediately go to sleep.) What He tells you be faithful to speak and live out. Praise God that He still speaks, and may His people be faithful to listen and obey!
07 January 2011
Overcoming the Adversary
This morning during my quiet time with the LORD I read the first chapter of 1 Samuel. A verse about Hannah the mother of Samuel caught my attention. 1 Samuel 1:6 reads, "And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb." The NKJV drives home the effect Peninnah (a rival wife of Hannah's) had upon her: "And her rival also provoked her severely, to make her miserable, because the LORD had closed her womb." Hannah was barren because God had closed her womb. Though she had a wonderful husband and did greatly desire children, it was the hateful spite from Peninnah that broke Hannah down. It is amazing to consider the means God employs to foster within His children His heavenly graces as we are refined "as by fire."
God did not desire for Hannah to be miserable, to weep and refuse to eat food. But He intentionally closed Hannah's womb and allowed Peninnah to continue her assault. How true it is that our adversary, the devil, would provoke us to be miserable over what God does or does not do! Hannah wished for a child, and cried out to God to fulfill her petition. It was God's will she would have a son and five more children besides, but He desired to use this difficult situation to work within her as well as through her. She would later give birth to the prophet Samuel, whom she would consecrate for life to serve the LORD.
There is much God will do in our lives, and He has given us desire to see His word immediately fulfilled. Yet in His wisdom, He tarries. And in some cases, it feels as though His promises might never see fruition! While He tarries, our adversary labors to make us fret and wallow in misery, break our resolve, distract us from His goodness, fill us with doubt and anguish, and drown us in cares that ought to be cast upon Christ in prayer. How great is our God, who works all things - even the vicious assaults of our adversaries - for good! May we be as Hannah, who sought the LORD fervently despite the ferocity of her rival. When her prayers were answered, she was faithful to obey and do her part unto the LORD as she promised. She was rewarded with fruitfulness and God received the glory!
God did not desire for Hannah to be miserable, to weep and refuse to eat food. But He intentionally closed Hannah's womb and allowed Peninnah to continue her assault. How true it is that our adversary, the devil, would provoke us to be miserable over what God does or does not do! Hannah wished for a child, and cried out to God to fulfill her petition. It was God's will she would have a son and five more children besides, but He desired to use this difficult situation to work within her as well as through her. She would later give birth to the prophet Samuel, whom she would consecrate for life to serve the LORD.
There is much God will do in our lives, and He has given us desire to see His word immediately fulfilled. Yet in His wisdom, He tarries. And in some cases, it feels as though His promises might never see fruition! While He tarries, our adversary labors to make us fret and wallow in misery, break our resolve, distract us from His goodness, fill us with doubt and anguish, and drown us in cares that ought to be cast upon Christ in prayer. How great is our God, who works all things - even the vicious assaults of our adversaries - for good! May we be as Hannah, who sought the LORD fervently despite the ferocity of her rival. When her prayers were answered, she was faithful to obey and do her part unto the LORD as she promised. She was rewarded with fruitfulness and God received the glory!
04 January 2011
Just Another Potato...
When I ran cross country for Grossmont High school, I enjoyed the leadership of Coach Lib. He did much more than teach us how to run competitively. He gave us great insight into being part of a team, knew how and when to challenge us to reach our hidden potential, and understood the power of motivation. During his pep talks, he would talk about how our character was being built by our choices. When we were faced with obstacles or difficulties he would say, "That's just another potato in the stew of life." That's a positive way to see our struggles - like a potato that can be swallowed and put away for good.
As believers we know God allows things to happen we cannot. He knows that good will come from circumstances He allows which we never could have imagined. Unlike the natural process of digestion, God is able to supernaturally make good out of obstacles there's no way we could chew or swallow. What a comfort this is to us, knowing God remains in control!
This morning our family disembarked at 6:15am Sydney time, had our passports stamped, and headed over to Carousel #4 to pick up our baggage. Our flight from Carlsbad to Sydney had been delayed 20 minutes, shrinking our 45 minute layover to mere minutes. Thankfully the gates were close! But it became apparent as we waited at the carousel in Sydney watching bag after bag pass by without seeing one of our eight checked bags, we had managed to make a connection our bags had not! It was later confirmed that our bags had indeed reached LAX, but were somewhere else than Sydney this morning. We weren't the only ones with missing bags either!
Needless to say this was an unexpected snag in our travels. Laura and the boys had only the clothes on their backs, we were without toiletries, and separated from things considered precious enough to cart 7,500 miles! Though disappointed with this minor setback, we were blessed beyond measure to be met by two women from church who woke up early (and one young man on summer holiday!), faced the traffic and tolls, and met us with joyful embraces. I would rather lose 10 bags forever and receive the love of Christ than to have 10 cases filled with gold without God's love. How blessed we are to have the fellowship, unity, and love of Jesus Christ displayed from His people!
We still do not know how the missing baggage story will end. Will our bags ever be found? I hope so! But even in this God can and will be glorified, and even this setback is just a small potato in the stew of life. We'll chew it up and grow stronger. Praise God He has given us a life worth living and brothers and sisters in Christ to share it with!
As believers we know God allows things to happen we cannot. He knows that good will come from circumstances He allows which we never could have imagined. Unlike the natural process of digestion, God is able to supernaturally make good out of obstacles there's no way we could chew or swallow. What a comfort this is to us, knowing God remains in control!
This morning our family disembarked at 6:15am Sydney time, had our passports stamped, and headed over to Carousel #4 to pick up our baggage. Our flight from Carlsbad to Sydney had been delayed 20 minutes, shrinking our 45 minute layover to mere minutes. Thankfully the gates were close! But it became apparent as we waited at the carousel in Sydney watching bag after bag pass by without seeing one of our eight checked bags, we had managed to make a connection our bags had not! It was later confirmed that our bags had indeed reached LAX, but were somewhere else than Sydney this morning. We weren't the only ones with missing bags either!
Needless to say this was an unexpected snag in our travels. Laura and the boys had only the clothes on their backs, we were without toiletries, and separated from things considered precious enough to cart 7,500 miles! Though disappointed with this minor setback, we were blessed beyond measure to be met by two women from church who woke up early (and one young man on summer holiday!), faced the traffic and tolls, and met us with joyful embraces. I would rather lose 10 bags forever and receive the love of Christ than to have 10 cases filled with gold without God's love. How blessed we are to have the fellowship, unity, and love of Jesus Christ displayed from His people!
We still do not know how the missing baggage story will end. Will our bags ever be found? I hope so! But even in this God can and will be glorified, and even this setback is just a small potato in the stew of life. We'll chew it up and grow stronger. Praise God He has given us a life worth living and brothers and sisters in Christ to share it with!
02 January 2011
A Time to Fly
The big moment has almost arrived! Tomorrow my wife and two sons will be boarding a plane bound for Sydney, Australia! People ask me: "Are you excited?" Frankly, I don't know when I wasn't excited. But at the same time it feels unbelievable, that the day that hardly seemed imaginable will become a soon reality. One of my sons have not even been out of the state of California, much less off the continent! A challenge and change awaits us.
Thank God that He is LORD of the heavens and the earth. As the words of David relate in Psalm 139:7-18: "Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? 8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10 even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, "Surely the darkness shall fall on me," even the night shall be light about me; 12 Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You. 13 For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. and in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. 17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! 18 If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; when I awake, I am still with You."
How marvelous are the works of our God! Though we leave family and friends dear to us, we look forward to friends and family in Christ we join in service to God in Australia. Tomorrow is already written in God's book, but I have a part in walking according to His will. Though we may be out of sight and out of mind of men, our God will never forget us. He will never leave or forsake His children.
Thank God that He is LORD of the heavens and the earth. As the words of David relate in Psalm 139:7-18: "Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? 8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10 even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, "Surely the darkness shall fall on me," even the night shall be light about me; 12 Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You. 13 For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. and in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. 17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! 18 If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; when I awake, I am still with You."
How marvelous are the works of our God! Though we leave family and friends dear to us, we look forward to friends and family in Christ we join in service to God in Australia. Tomorrow is already written in God's book, but I have a part in walking according to His will. Though we may be out of sight and out of mind of men, our God will never forget us. He will never leave or forsake His children.