I am awed by the complexity of life on earth. When I turned on the TV the other day, there was a program about Emperor Penguins. How those creatures survive in such brutal conditions is nothing short of miraculous! The instincts within those created animals (all creatures are created by God) enable them to procreate, pass the egg gently from female to male, and then walk with the egg balanced carefully on the feet. After handing off the egg, the female heads off to hunt. I saw the show for less than five minutes, but my mind was blown by the amazing abilities and rare beauty of those majestic creatures.
From the smallest single-celled organism to the sprawling heavens above, all boldly proclaim the awesomeness of God's creative majesty. The stars displayed in the night sky twinkle from millions of light years away. It struck me that when we look up into the sky and admire the beauty of countless stars, we are simply peering through a keyhole to catch but a glimpse of God's majesty. That is how awesome and great God is. He is so beyond our comprehension, yet through nature His beauty can be seen. But God was not content simply to create matter, animals, humans, and spirits. He desired to be known by them and to be with them. Unwilling to remain apart from man because of man's rebellion, God saw fit to reveal Himself to us as a Man: Jesus Christ who is called Immanuel, God with us. He was not simply and orator or a proponent of social justice, but One who demonstrated divine love for all people through His sacrificial death. Jesus also revealed His power over death through His resurrection and ascension before many witnesses.
How great is our God! Moses sang in Exodus 15:11 after God delivered the Israelites through the Red Sea and destroyed their enemies, "Who is like You, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?" Answer? No one! Nothing! Let us glorify, praise, and thank Him. May God open our eyes to behold Him so we might better appreciate His wonders!
30 September 2013
25 September 2013
Only Christ Redeems
The world cannot provide the redemptive forgiveness and grace found only in God. There is no hope in mankind for salvation or comfort. Heap up money and riches, distract yourself with activity, and pursue everything your heart desires and your conclusion will be the same as King Solomon: "All is vanity and grasping for the wind." Successful building projects, laughter, abundance of wealth, wine, women, or song did nothing to satisfy the needs of his soul.
In the mornings this week I have been reading through the book of Ruth and continue to marvel over this beautiful story of redemption. Ruth, a foreign widow, "happened" to glean in the field of Boaz. He was a near kinsman, a man who was called to redeem her to raise up seed on behalf of Ruth's late husband so he would have an heir. This he delighted to do, and took his case before the men at the gate. There was a man who was a closer relative than Boaz, but when redeeming the land meant he must also marry Ruth he refused to do so. He claimed it would mar his own inheritance. Boaz rejoiced to make a covenant before those at the gate, and redeemed Ruth as his wife.
It is a wonderful picture of the redemptive work Christ has done for us. We are aliens and foreigners of the commonwealth of heaven, separated from God because of our sin. But He has been gracious to us and sealed a covenant with His own blood, claiming all who will repent and trust in Him as His own. What grace, mercy, and love He has demonstrated! How thankful I am that my life has been redeemed from sin, Hell, and death. Christ has paid my ransom and delivered me from everlasting destruction, providing through His sacrifice eternal life as it is written in Ephesians 1:5-8: "...having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He has made us accepted in the Beloved. 7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace 8 which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence..."
There are things in this world which have redemptive value: scrap metals, plastics, even paper goods can be redeemed for the purpose of profitable use. I am a wretched sinner without any eternal value, yet God has seen fit to redeem my life to accomplish His divine purposes through me. This is a wondrous thing: God does not redeem me only because He wants to use me, but because He loves me as I am. He has made a distinction between me and my sin. He has forgiven me and chosen to remember my sin no more, and now uses me and all others adopted into His family through the Gospel by His grace. This is the example I am to follow, giving more grace, that His redemptive power will be at work in and through my life.
I was previously without hope or comfort, but God has done the impossible through the redemptive sacrifice of Christ. God is worthy of all praise and thanksgiving for all He has done, and I am eternally grateful!
In the mornings this week I have been reading through the book of Ruth and continue to marvel over this beautiful story of redemption. Ruth, a foreign widow, "happened" to glean in the field of Boaz. He was a near kinsman, a man who was called to redeem her to raise up seed on behalf of Ruth's late husband so he would have an heir. This he delighted to do, and took his case before the men at the gate. There was a man who was a closer relative than Boaz, but when redeeming the land meant he must also marry Ruth he refused to do so. He claimed it would mar his own inheritance. Boaz rejoiced to make a covenant before those at the gate, and redeemed Ruth as his wife.
It is a wonderful picture of the redemptive work Christ has done for us. We are aliens and foreigners of the commonwealth of heaven, separated from God because of our sin. But He has been gracious to us and sealed a covenant with His own blood, claiming all who will repent and trust in Him as His own. What grace, mercy, and love He has demonstrated! How thankful I am that my life has been redeemed from sin, Hell, and death. Christ has paid my ransom and delivered me from everlasting destruction, providing through His sacrifice eternal life as it is written in Ephesians 1:5-8: "...having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He has made us accepted in the Beloved. 7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace 8 which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence..."
There are things in this world which have redemptive value: scrap metals, plastics, even paper goods can be redeemed for the purpose of profitable use. I am a wretched sinner without any eternal value, yet God has seen fit to redeem my life to accomplish His divine purposes through me. This is a wondrous thing: God does not redeem me only because He wants to use me, but because He loves me as I am. He has made a distinction between me and my sin. He has forgiven me and chosen to remember my sin no more, and now uses me and all others adopted into His family through the Gospel by His grace. This is the example I am to follow, giving more grace, that His redemptive power will be at work in and through my life.
I was previously without hope or comfort, but God has done the impossible through the redemptive sacrifice of Christ. God is worthy of all praise and thanksgiving for all He has done, and I am eternally grateful!
22 September 2013
Fear is a Choice
The perspective of the Bible reveals love is a choice. The divine love revealed through Jesus Christ springs of grace from the goodness of God. In obedience to the Father's will, Jesus rejoiced to demonstrate His love for sinners even through the suffering of the cross. This love is not seated on the rise and flow of the emotions, nor is it at the mercy of circumstance. It is a constant, active love that is ever reaching out to man from the sole pure source of love: God.
One of the commands Jesus gave to His followers is that we would love one another as He has loved us. We choose to love therefore on the basis of His active love, not on how we feel at any given time. Our motivation for loving others is not their worthiness, but out of the same grace God has shown us. Because the Holy Spirit resides within us, we are enabled to love as God loves. It is a conscious decision we are called to make to demonstrate this love to all regardless of their performance or views of us. This sacrificial love is a supernatural fruit of the Spirit within us that is bourne when we abide in Christ through faith.
This week God spoke to me so clearly about another choice we as Christians are called and empowered to make: the choice to fear. Did you know that fear - just like love - is a choice? You might think, "I can't help it if I am afraid." If you are not a Christian, I quite agree with you. I fear for you! But if you are a Christian, you have been given the strength and wisdom to walk according to God's perfect will. Anyone can be given a fright, but the fear I am speaking of can also be called dread, preoccupation, worry, or fearful uncertainty. As a Christian, we are given the power to refuse to sin and instead walk in righteousness.
To paraphrase Luther concerning sin, he said something to the effect of "You can't keep birds from flying overhead, but you can keep them from nesting in your hair." The temptation itself is not sin. It is our acquiescing response to the temptation which causes sin to be conceived and brought forth. Satan will surely send his fiery darts and temptations to sin our way, but the shield of faith has the power to block them harmlessly to the ground. When the idea of sin barges into our minds through our senses or a satanic suggestion, Christians have a real choice: to flee from the temptation and seek God, or choose to entertain the idea of sin. We sin when our sin nature is awakened by temptation and we choose to entertain it. Even before we put it into practice when we toy with the ideas conceived, we are in sin. Jesus said if someone looks at a woman with lust in their heart, he or she has already committed adultery.
When it comes to fear, we have a choice set before us. As soon as we recognise our preoccuption or worry, our call is to choose to be casting our cares upon Christ, committing our situation and the outcome into His hands. David wrote in Psalm 56:2-4, "My enemies would hound me all day, for there are many who fight against me, O Most High. 3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. 4 In God (I will praise His word), in God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?" Every person on the earth has very real fear, even as we have a sin nature by birth. David used fear as a trigger to cause him to seek God instead. He said, "Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You." When David was struck with paralysing fear, he looked to God as his Saviour and Deliverer. This enabled him to maintain a godly perspective when fear struck his heart. Then he was no longer afraid because He trusted God and his Word.
Let us choose to flee from the temptation to fear. When the wind blows and the waves crash against us, when everything seems uncertain and frightening, let us look to Christ and the scriptures. His nail-scarred hands reach to lift us up, and His eyes are filled with love. When we see Him and recognise Him as Creator of All and Saviour of our souls, all fear melts away. Then we can love as He loves, for it is His love which is revealed through us.
One of the commands Jesus gave to His followers is that we would love one another as He has loved us. We choose to love therefore on the basis of His active love, not on how we feel at any given time. Our motivation for loving others is not their worthiness, but out of the same grace God has shown us. Because the Holy Spirit resides within us, we are enabled to love as God loves. It is a conscious decision we are called to make to demonstrate this love to all regardless of their performance or views of us. This sacrificial love is a supernatural fruit of the Spirit within us that is bourne when we abide in Christ through faith.
This week God spoke to me so clearly about another choice we as Christians are called and empowered to make: the choice to fear. Did you know that fear - just like love - is a choice? You might think, "I can't help it if I am afraid." If you are not a Christian, I quite agree with you. I fear for you! But if you are a Christian, you have been given the strength and wisdom to walk according to God's perfect will. Anyone can be given a fright, but the fear I am speaking of can also be called dread, preoccupation, worry, or fearful uncertainty. As a Christian, we are given the power to refuse to sin and instead walk in righteousness.
To paraphrase Luther concerning sin, he said something to the effect of "You can't keep birds from flying overhead, but you can keep them from nesting in your hair." The temptation itself is not sin. It is our acquiescing response to the temptation which causes sin to be conceived and brought forth. Satan will surely send his fiery darts and temptations to sin our way, but the shield of faith has the power to block them harmlessly to the ground. When the idea of sin barges into our minds through our senses or a satanic suggestion, Christians have a real choice: to flee from the temptation and seek God, or choose to entertain the idea of sin. We sin when our sin nature is awakened by temptation and we choose to entertain it. Even before we put it into practice when we toy with the ideas conceived, we are in sin. Jesus said if someone looks at a woman with lust in their heart, he or she has already committed adultery.
When it comes to fear, we have a choice set before us. As soon as we recognise our preoccuption or worry, our call is to choose to be casting our cares upon Christ, committing our situation and the outcome into His hands. David wrote in Psalm 56:2-4, "My enemies would hound me all day, for there are many who fight against me, O Most High. 3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. 4 In God (I will praise His word), in God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?" Every person on the earth has very real fear, even as we have a sin nature by birth. David used fear as a trigger to cause him to seek God instead. He said, "Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You." When David was struck with paralysing fear, he looked to God as his Saviour and Deliverer. This enabled him to maintain a godly perspective when fear struck his heart. Then he was no longer afraid because He trusted God and his Word.
Let us choose to flee from the temptation to fear. When the wind blows and the waves crash against us, when everything seems uncertain and frightening, let us look to Christ and the scriptures. His nail-scarred hands reach to lift us up, and His eyes are filled with love. When we see Him and recognise Him as Creator of All and Saviour of our souls, all fear melts away. Then we can love as He loves, for it is His love which is revealed through us.
20 September 2013
God Lifts Up the Fallen
When someone falls on the ground, what is your response? Do you laugh? Stop and stare? Do you carefully walk around the fallen because someone else has already stooped to help?
Do you run to lift the fallen up? If you know the one who has fallen are you embarrassed for them - or more embarrassed for yourself?
The simple act of falling can have devastating consequences. The person who falls bears not only the brunt of the impact, but also the potential stigma of harsh judgments from others.
As Christians, may we be people who are quick to help those who have fallen, whether physically or spiritually. I think it is easier to accept that someone has fallen physically than spiritually. Perhaps for years we have viewed someone as a tower of strength who ultimately proved to be weak as any other man, and their fall into sin has left us gutted, disillusioned, even angry. Let us be those who give grace and seek in a spirit of meekness to restore such a one to fellowship with the LORD and others. Those who think they stand are warned to take heed lest they fall.
Falling is part of walking, and sin is part of our life here on earth. Let us admit our failings and when we have fallen, seek aid from the Great Physician Jesus Christ. We are not too proud to go to the doctor when the pain becomes unbearable, but sometimes we think in spiritual matters we are above falling or requiring assistance to begin the healing process. Jeremiah 17:14 reads, "Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for You are my praise." We don't need insurance to have God's assurance. God is the lifter of our head!
Do you run to lift the fallen up? If you know the one who has fallen are you embarrassed for them - or more embarrassed for yourself?
The simple act of falling can have devastating consequences. The person who falls bears not only the brunt of the impact, but also the potential stigma of harsh judgments from others.
As Christians, may we be people who are quick to help those who have fallen, whether physically or spiritually. I think it is easier to accept that someone has fallen physically than spiritually. Perhaps for years we have viewed someone as a tower of strength who ultimately proved to be weak as any other man, and their fall into sin has left us gutted, disillusioned, even angry. Let us be those who give grace and seek in a spirit of meekness to restore such a one to fellowship with the LORD and others. Those who think they stand are warned to take heed lest they fall.
Falling is part of walking, and sin is part of our life here on earth. Let us admit our failings and when we have fallen, seek aid from the Great Physician Jesus Christ. We are not too proud to go to the doctor when the pain becomes unbearable, but sometimes we think in spiritual matters we are above falling or requiring assistance to begin the healing process. Jeremiah 17:14 reads, "Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for You are my praise." We don't need insurance to have God's assurance. God is the lifter of our head!
18 September 2013
Ready for Real
Yesterday morning I picked up my parents from the airport to kick off their two-week stay with us. It is a blessing to our family fly down under to visit with us. Thank you to those who sent letters and goodies along with them, an unexpected treat! I have been feverishly working to finish my "work" so we can do things together at a relaxed pace.
When I visited the States in June, ironically I helped out with booking this trip. It was placed on the calendar months ago. There were many things we have successfully prepared for: ordering a bed for the re-arranged guest room, organising things to be brought over, inquiring with friends about things to do and see, and planning for the upcoming conference and projects. But regardless of all the work we have done, it seems like things slipped through the cracks - things like lunch! For months we knew my parents were coming, but we never thought to put together a menu or daily calendar. We're jumping right on it...better late than never, I suppose.
It is very easy to be caught up in the daily activities and lose sight of the thing Jesus often reminds us in scripture: "Behold, I come quickly!" Being ready in our minds and ready in reality are two different things. How many times did we know a birthday or special day was coming up and we neglected to buy the card, make the phone call, book the trip, do all the things we fully intended and desired to do because we were busy about other things? Let's make sure that our Father's business is our highest priority! Someday it will be too late. Why regret when we can rejoice in a job well done?
When I visited the States in June, ironically I helped out with booking this trip. It was placed on the calendar months ago. There were many things we have successfully prepared for: ordering a bed for the re-arranged guest room, organising things to be brought over, inquiring with friends about things to do and see, and planning for the upcoming conference and projects. But regardless of all the work we have done, it seems like things slipped through the cracks - things like lunch! For months we knew my parents were coming, but we never thought to put together a menu or daily calendar. We're jumping right on it...better late than never, I suppose.
It is very easy to be caught up in the daily activities and lose sight of the thing Jesus often reminds us in scripture: "Behold, I come quickly!" Being ready in our minds and ready in reality are two different things. How many times did we know a birthday or special day was coming up and we neglected to buy the card, make the phone call, book the trip, do all the things we fully intended and desired to do because we were busy about other things? Let's make sure that our Father's business is our highest priority! Someday it will be too late. Why regret when we can rejoice in a job well done?
15 September 2013
The Better Offer
There is an intriguing passage in Judges 17-18 which speaks of Micah, his idols, and priest. One of the best and useful sermons I have ever heard was drawn out of this passage by Paris Reidhead titled, "10 Shekels and a Shirt." Micah hired a Levite to become the priest over his household. The Levite was pleased with the terms offered him and agreed to serve Micah - that is, until he received a better offer! When men from the tribe of Dan came with a hidden purpose to steal Micah's ephod and idols, the Levite who posed as a priest confronted them. They said, "Why don't you come with us? At the moment you are only priest over a household: wouldn't it be better for you to be priest over an entire tribe?" Judges 18:20 reveals his response: "So the priest's heart was glad; and he took the ephod, the household idols, and the carved image, and took his place among the people." Like many people, the Levite was only loyal until a better offer came along.
I wonder how many people decide to serve Christ because they see Him as a better offer than what the world initially provided. The trouble is, the devil is like the Godfather who knows how to make offers men can't refuse. Everyone who makes a deal with him ends up dying in the end! Loyal Christians remain faithful to Christ not because He has given them a "better offer," but because only in Him is found forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life. Jesus told a parable in Matthew 20 which set forth a scenario involving a vineyard owner seeking labourers. He promised to give the willing workers "what was right," fair wages for a day's work. At the end of the day, all the workers lined up who had been hired to receive their wages. We are like the workers the vineyard owner has recruited to serve in His vineyard for wages. Jesus says if we will believe in Him we will receive eternal life. Those who worked through the whole day received exactly what the master had promised.
Now imagine you are one of those workers in the vineyard. Just after lunch as you are toiling away, a well-dressed man in a suit walks up to you. "Working hard, I see?" he says with a wry smile. "You're working your hands to the bone for what, a denarius? I think you're worth a bit more than that." The work is hard and tiring, so he has your attention. He continues: "Tell you what: you come over and work for me, and I'll put you in charge as a foreman and triple your wage." As you think it over, something doesn't seem right. The backstory is you have never in your life made a denarius a day. In fact, you've never had a paying job! In addition, the master of the vineyard actually paid the fee to free you from life imprisonment for grave crimes. He invited you to work for him, and you were grateful for the opportunity. As you stand up, stretch your back, and wipe the sweat from your brow, you see the man nod and smile. "So? What will it be? What's your decision?" Now what do you do?
If you made the choice to leave the vineyard and follow the well-dressed man, it would be the most regrettable decision of your life. It's true he paid well - for a while - but in the end you ended up being in greater debt than when you began. You found yourself back on death row before long, alone and full of regret: why did you walk away from the vineyard that day? No offer this world can offer us is better than what God offers. He gives us what is right by His grace. What does it profit to gain the whole world and lose your own soul? Only Christ has the words of life, for He is the Way, Truth, and Life. The devil's offers may seem good initially, but his forked tongue only speaks lies. Too many people have laid down their souls as collateral to pursue their desires, and it is a decision they will regret for eternity.
Following and serving Christ is not the easy way, but it is the best way. It is a good way. Psalm 16:11 says of our God: "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." Money cannot provide life, fullness of joy, or lasting sweetness. Jesus freely offers all these things if we will repent and trust in Him. Let us choose this day whom we will serve. The scriptures teach us following God is the wise choice. Choose to stay faithful to our God, no matter what other offers may come along.
I wonder how many people decide to serve Christ because they see Him as a better offer than what the world initially provided. The trouble is, the devil is like the Godfather who knows how to make offers men can't refuse. Everyone who makes a deal with him ends up dying in the end! Loyal Christians remain faithful to Christ not because He has given them a "better offer," but because only in Him is found forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life. Jesus told a parable in Matthew 20 which set forth a scenario involving a vineyard owner seeking labourers. He promised to give the willing workers "what was right," fair wages for a day's work. At the end of the day, all the workers lined up who had been hired to receive their wages. We are like the workers the vineyard owner has recruited to serve in His vineyard for wages. Jesus says if we will believe in Him we will receive eternal life. Those who worked through the whole day received exactly what the master had promised.
Now imagine you are one of those workers in the vineyard. Just after lunch as you are toiling away, a well-dressed man in a suit walks up to you. "Working hard, I see?" he says with a wry smile. "You're working your hands to the bone for what, a denarius? I think you're worth a bit more than that." The work is hard and tiring, so he has your attention. He continues: "Tell you what: you come over and work for me, and I'll put you in charge as a foreman and triple your wage." As you think it over, something doesn't seem right. The backstory is you have never in your life made a denarius a day. In fact, you've never had a paying job! In addition, the master of the vineyard actually paid the fee to free you from life imprisonment for grave crimes. He invited you to work for him, and you were grateful for the opportunity. As you stand up, stretch your back, and wipe the sweat from your brow, you see the man nod and smile. "So? What will it be? What's your decision?" Now what do you do?
If you made the choice to leave the vineyard and follow the well-dressed man, it would be the most regrettable decision of your life. It's true he paid well - for a while - but in the end you ended up being in greater debt than when you began. You found yourself back on death row before long, alone and full of regret: why did you walk away from the vineyard that day? No offer this world can offer us is better than what God offers. He gives us what is right by His grace. What does it profit to gain the whole world and lose your own soul? Only Christ has the words of life, for He is the Way, Truth, and Life. The devil's offers may seem good initially, but his forked tongue only speaks lies. Too many people have laid down their souls as collateral to pursue their desires, and it is a decision they will regret for eternity.
Following and serving Christ is not the easy way, but it is the best way. It is a good way. Psalm 16:11 says of our God: "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." Money cannot provide life, fullness of joy, or lasting sweetness. Jesus freely offers all these things if we will repent and trust in Him. Let us choose this day whom we will serve. The scriptures teach us following God is the wise choice. Choose to stay faithful to our God, no matter what other offers may come along.
13 September 2013
He Holds the Reins
Some people have the impression that the Christian life is one of restrictive rules. In fact, quite the opposite is true: in Christ we have freedoms never before possible, either apart from God or under the Old Covenant of the Law of Moses. The Bible tells us all people are born sinners, spiritually blinded by darkness, chained and imprisoned awaiting everlasting judgment. Jesus came to open the eyes of the blind, make the lame to walk, cleanse the lepers, release people from their chains, and raise the dead. He is the Light of the World that has shined in the darkness, and only He has the words of life.
God does not bring us out of our bondage to Satan, sin, and death, and herd Christians into kennels. We are no longer shackled in a prison, but are set free. We have absolute freedom in Christ without fences, walls, chains, a life without guards in turrets armed with high-powered rifles who wait for any excuse to shoot. God governs us in a completely different way than some might think. The Holy Spirit leads us from within. The way the Holy Spirit leads us could be compared to an expert rider holding the reins on a horse. He does not hem us in with the bars and gates of a corral, but moves us with a gentle tap of the heel, a quiet command understood by our opened ears, and directs us through a tug on the reins. It is for us to decide if we will heed His guidance or go our own way. The world sees Christianity as a cramped corral, but in actuality it is a wide-open meadow with plenty of grazing and clean drinking water. In the presence of our Owner we remain under His protection and care. He feeds and waters us, scrubs us clean, and tends to our wounds. We are ever safe with Him, and He has the best plan for our future.
Unless you have experienced a life with God by His grace, this loving relationship cannot be understood or appreciated. Even those who are born again cannot express fully the thankfulness we have for the God who rescued us in our distress and saved us. Horses and people are alike in that before we can be useful we must be broken. God employs many means to break a man, but all healing is found through Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Once we learn to submit to His control, we are led out of the paddock and a whole new world opens to us. As our relationship grows with God so does our trust, and only God knows where He will lead you! Praise God for His love and gracious governance!
God does not bring us out of our bondage to Satan, sin, and death, and herd Christians into kennels. We are no longer shackled in a prison, but are set free. We have absolute freedom in Christ without fences, walls, chains, a life without guards in turrets armed with high-powered rifles who wait for any excuse to shoot. God governs us in a completely different way than some might think. The Holy Spirit leads us from within. The way the Holy Spirit leads us could be compared to an expert rider holding the reins on a horse. He does not hem us in with the bars and gates of a corral, but moves us with a gentle tap of the heel, a quiet command understood by our opened ears, and directs us through a tug on the reins. It is for us to decide if we will heed His guidance or go our own way. The world sees Christianity as a cramped corral, but in actuality it is a wide-open meadow with plenty of grazing and clean drinking water. In the presence of our Owner we remain under His protection and care. He feeds and waters us, scrubs us clean, and tends to our wounds. We are ever safe with Him, and He has the best plan for our future.
Unless you have experienced a life with God by His grace, this loving relationship cannot be understood or appreciated. Even those who are born again cannot express fully the thankfulness we have for the God who rescued us in our distress and saved us. Horses and people are alike in that before we can be useful we must be broken. God employs many means to break a man, but all healing is found through Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Once we learn to submit to His control, we are led out of the paddock and a whole new world opens to us. As our relationship grows with God so does our trust, and only God knows where He will lead you! Praise God for His love and gracious governance!
11 September 2013
The Poison of Prosperity
It is a great irony that some parents who grew up with virtually nothing want their kids to have everything. Yet this fervent sacrifice to provide all their children desire creates in them a lack of appreciation for anything! I was raised by parents who loved me and my siblings and provided for our needs. Not only were we fed and provided with clothes and shelter, we received gifts for our birthdays. On very rare occasions we even took family trips to Disneyland. But we were not given whatever we wanted. Therefore it didn't take too much for us to greatly appreciate "treats" like eating out at McDonald's or receiving a gift of beef jerky. We never expected or felt entitled to have a Big Gulp at 7-11 or an ice cream when the truck came by. My parents showed their love first through being present with us, supported each of their children to meet our individual needs, established clear boundaries through consistent, rigid discipline, and most of all through their faith in God. The rod played a role in our raising, but it was outdone by kisses, hugs, and laughs.
Every good parent wants to see the needs of their children met. More than food, water, clothing, housing or gifts, the greatest need of a child is of a spiritual nature. My parents instilled in me the knowledge through scripture that I was a sinner in need of a Saviour. I came to understand that the God who created me desired to be my heavenly Father, and that I would be His child. One of the books of the Bible I loved to read from an early age was the book of Proverbs. The wise and the foolish are often contrasted. Proverbs 1:7 says, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." The biblical definition of a fool is one who denies the existence of God, or lives as if God does not exist (Ps. 14:1). Unless children are instructed concerning their deep spiritual need, the success of their studies and career may more of a curse than a blessing. Interestingly enough, the one thing that is almost an eternal death sentence for a human being is security and prosperity. For what does the scripture say? Proverbs 1:32 reads, "For the turning away of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them." The Hebrew word translated "complacency" in the NKJV is also translated at different times as "prosperity, peaceably, quietness, abundance." The Strong's Concordance conveys the meaning as a genuine or false security. If we find our temporal security in relationships, money, insurance, or anything other than God, we remain blind to our need for Him.
When a man or child without the fear of God has an abundance of goods, when they are prosperous and without threats, it works for their destruction. Jesus said is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a sewing needle than for a rich man to enter heaven. Yet in Christ there is hope for all. With men, it would be impossible: with God, all things are possible (Mark 10:27)! Satan seeks to destroy men, and one way he does it is through prosperity. It is good to give good gifts to our children, but may we not neglect their deepest need to fear God. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and He will supply all our needs.
Every good parent wants to see the needs of their children met. More than food, water, clothing, housing or gifts, the greatest need of a child is of a spiritual nature. My parents instilled in me the knowledge through scripture that I was a sinner in need of a Saviour. I came to understand that the God who created me desired to be my heavenly Father, and that I would be His child. One of the books of the Bible I loved to read from an early age was the book of Proverbs. The wise and the foolish are often contrasted. Proverbs 1:7 says, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." The biblical definition of a fool is one who denies the existence of God, or lives as if God does not exist (Ps. 14:1). Unless children are instructed concerning their deep spiritual need, the success of their studies and career may more of a curse than a blessing. Interestingly enough, the one thing that is almost an eternal death sentence for a human being is security and prosperity. For what does the scripture say? Proverbs 1:32 reads, "For the turning away of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them." The Hebrew word translated "complacency" in the NKJV is also translated at different times as "prosperity, peaceably, quietness, abundance." The Strong's Concordance conveys the meaning as a genuine or false security. If we find our temporal security in relationships, money, insurance, or anything other than God, we remain blind to our need for Him.
When a man or child without the fear of God has an abundance of goods, when they are prosperous and without threats, it works for their destruction. Jesus said is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a sewing needle than for a rich man to enter heaven. Yet in Christ there is hope for all. With men, it would be impossible: with God, all things are possible (Mark 10:27)! Satan seeks to destroy men, and one way he does it is through prosperity. It is good to give good gifts to our children, but may we not neglect their deepest need to fear God. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and He will supply all our needs.
10 September 2013
Christ is Without Controversy
"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory."
1 Timothy 3:16
The world is full of controversy, but these basic tenets of godliness are not numbered among them. Paul plainly says the mystery of godliness - something once hidden that has now been revealed - is without any controversy, beyond any doubt or factually-founded opposition: God has been manifested through the person of Jesus Christ, justified in the Holy Spirit through His bodily resurrection, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and received up in glory. Paul speaks of these as ironclad facts.
Most of the attacks of scripture or Christianity do not come against these aspects, nor could they. It is easier to point out the flaws or hypocrisy of His followers than to lay such claims against Christ. Should someone try to debunk Christ's existence, His claims, deeds, resurrection, or ascension from even a secular historical basis, it is a futile exercise. Ask Josh McDowell about that approach! It is easier to try to create controversy through "oppositions of science falsely so called" (1 Timothy 6:20) than to refute the authenticity of Christ's words and deeds. These truths are made plain and evident through scripture for those who have eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to understand what the Spirit is saying. But the reality is, many people have strong reasons not to believe. When the "reasons" not to believe are stripped bare, the aforementioned proofs are not the issue. As much as we humans love to tout our logical approach and emotional detachment in making decisions, and our ability to make an objective choice based solely on the facts, we have an inner bias favouring ourselves we cannot shake. Nearly every single thing we have learned through our senses, and our senses or ill-informed sources have failed us more than we know.
If we want to understand truth from God, we must be born again. We need the Holy Spirit to make new our minds, hearts, and will. We must lay down our prejudices and biases, and choose to bring God's Word to bear upon the parts of our lives that naturally oppose His rule. God became a man to relate to us, personally enduring rejection, physical pain, and hatred. He did not come to visit for the experience alone, however, because He came with the express purpose to seek and save the lost. He came to sacrifice Himself for man's redemption. Jesus came with great wisdom and the words of life, but people sought to trip Him up or trap Him with His own words. They questioned Christ and disputed with Him, and ultimately Jesus was accused and killed. But without controversy is the fact the Messiah Jesus Christ has come in fulfillment of scripture. Jesus rose from the dead, and it has been documented the great pains the Romans and Jewish leaders went through to make sure He was dead, buried, sealed in a tomb, and guarded. In doing so, they only furthered proved the validity of Christ's resurrection, and His ascension was viewed by eye-witnesses who went to their deaths professing the truth of it all. The man who wrote this passage inspired by the Holy Spirit, the apostle Paul, was one of them.
This is the beauty of Christ and His Word. The world may ridicule and scorn; we will face unfounded personal attacks on our character; but regardless of whatever state we find ourselves or wherever we may be, we can be assured of these truths upon which our lives are founded. Our bodies will grow old and fail, yet our inner man is renewed day by day. The world can dissolve, but our faith will wax stronger through the Spirit's revelation. We know and are assured that our souls have been purchased with the precious blood of Christ, and He has reconciled us to God. The words of Jude 1:24-25 are our daily benediction and praise: "Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, 25 to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen." Let us hold the high ground, looking to and rejoicing in our Saviour and Messiah Jesus Christ!
Jesus Still Speaks
The Bible is filled with many teachings of Christ to His disciples. Some have been recorded in great detail and have been named by scholars, like the Sermon on the Mount or the Olivet Discourse. But there are many times we aren't told exactly what Jesus said. When Jesus met with two men headed down on the road to Emmaus, we are told beginning at Moses and the prophets Jesus expounded on all the scriptures concerning Himself. No words from this enlightening sermon besides the initial words of rebuke are recorded.
Only a handful of verses later, Jesus appeared to the disciples as they gathered in secret. Luke 24:44-45 reads, "Then He said to them, "These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me." 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures." Again, we are not told precisely what He said. But I believe there is a reason that the words were not entirely recorded. The words Jesus spoke could have easily been penned, but they have been sealed. Why? Because Jesus has things He desires to teach us individually and corporately today we can only discover through the study of His Word empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Before Jesus went to the cross, He said to His disciples in John 16:12-13: "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." After Christ's resurrection and ascension, when the Day of Pentecost had fully come, the disciples who met in one accord were baptised with the Holy Spirit. Through Him, Jesus has revealed things previously unknown. We are not at a loss because all the sermons of Christ were not recorded for us because the Spirit will reveal to us personally all He desires to teach us. This is a wondrous truth! 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 says, "But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God."
Jesus has many things yet to teach us, and He has chosen in these last days to open our understanding that we might comprehend the scriptures through the power of the Holy Spirit. We live in a day of revelation, understanding, and fulfillment. Are you willing to walk with Christ and open up His Word so He can speak to you through it? How many things He will teach us if we will only walk with Him and listen!
Only a handful of verses later, Jesus appeared to the disciples as they gathered in secret. Luke 24:44-45 reads, "Then He said to them, "These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me." 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures." Again, we are not told precisely what He said. But I believe there is a reason that the words were not entirely recorded. The words Jesus spoke could have easily been penned, but they have been sealed. Why? Because Jesus has things He desires to teach us individually and corporately today we can only discover through the study of His Word empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Before Jesus went to the cross, He said to His disciples in John 16:12-13: "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." After Christ's resurrection and ascension, when the Day of Pentecost had fully come, the disciples who met in one accord were baptised with the Holy Spirit. Through Him, Jesus has revealed things previously unknown. We are not at a loss because all the sermons of Christ were not recorded for us because the Spirit will reveal to us personally all He desires to teach us. This is a wondrous truth! 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 says, "But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God."
Jesus has many things yet to teach us, and He has chosen in these last days to open our understanding that we might comprehend the scriptures through the power of the Holy Spirit. We live in a day of revelation, understanding, and fulfillment. Are you willing to walk with Christ and open up His Word so He can speak to you through it? How many things He will teach us if we will only walk with Him and listen!
05 September 2013
God Doesn't Change
People change, but God doesn't. This is one of the many aspects of God which is completely contrary to our experience on earth. He says in Malachi 3:6, "For I am the LORD, I change not..." The world changes with the advance of technology; philosophy, society, and economics change; the climate is constantly in a state of flux; even our bodies are always changing. Our thoughts change from one moment to the next, but God does not change. His righteous Laws do not "change with the times," for He has created time and it is subservient to His everlasting rule. He created this world, and someday He will end it.
During my lifetime, I have witnessed many changes. I have seen portable music devices go from oversized boom-boxes lugged on the shoulder to Walkman cassette players with headphones to portable CD players and MP3 players with ear buds to a phone that is a computer, camera, work and game station which oh yeah - also plays digital music downloaded from the internet without wires or cables and is stored in your pocket! With the advance of capitalism has come a massive increase in technology, increase of schools and universities, and convenience stores. Walk through a shop today and the range of products is staggering, and everywhere we are faced with choices. And with our freedoms and affluence, our foray into personal entitlement demands we "have it our way." As our independence grows so does our pride. It was not long ago that certain things were certainly right and wrong, but the poison of subjective truth has seeped into the very souls that comprise society - if a man has a soul at all. God has become unnecessary, and even to speak of Him is an ill omen. God, the Bible, the account of creation, and the person of Jesus Christ have been reduced to a grab-bag where people justify themselves to pick and choose what we want to believe - if we believe at all.
God has always given people the right to choose if we will believe Him or not. Remember, He doesn't change. He created man from the dust of the ground and breathed into Him a living soul. He created a mate for Him by removing a rib and fashioning a woman, for she was taken out of man. God established distinct sexes designed to provide companionship, procreate within marriage, a picture of the relationship He desires to have with man, one spurned on by His active, unfailing love. Because of sin, it was not long before the institution God made was under attack, with men divorcing their wives because of the hardness of their hearts. A ploy of Satan was to make Eve question the validity of God's Word, and he uses the same tactic masterfully to this day. When I was growing up, the Bible that gave unheard of protection and provision for women was blamed for their oppression. The God-ordained roles in the marriage relationship were questioned. The existence of sexual sin or illicit relationships was also questioned. Now it has come to a point where a genetically born man is free to choose if he is really a man or a woman. It has become all about us, and the phrase from the satanic bible "Do what thou wilt" has traction like never before. With the erosion of the fear of God has come great confusion. 1 Corinthians 14:33 says, "For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints." The word "confusion" in the Greek is defined as "instability, disorder, confusion." God is a God of order and He does not change. Sin has entered this world and death through sin. Satan opposes God and fights against Him, seeking to subvert his truth. Because we live in a day where men do not measure truth against God's unchanging Word and character, applauding whatever his heart believes is right, we add confusion to our guilt before God.
Today I was driving and caught something out of the corner of my eye. Near my house, several pairs of ducks can often be seen together: a male and his female. The heavens declare the glory of God, and nature itself speaks of order. I smiled to myself as I thought about the wisdom of God. There are very intelligent people who believe humans are descendants of sludge and there is no God. But there by the road, in a very quiet and lovely manner, those two ducks waddled along together. It spoke volumes to me: no matter what changes occur in society, no matter how far we stray from the truth of the scriptures, at least the ducks will keep being ducks. God created them to reproduce after their own kind. They will keep being male and female, and ducks will remain monogamous life-long partners long after the biblical definition of marriage is cast aside by humans, a testimony of God's plan and design. Ducks did not learn this "behaviour" from their parents or from their religious beliefs, but because God placed in them instincts to obey His rule. Is not the wisdom of God past finding out? God gave man the freedom to choose, and sadly most men choose to go their own way - and to their ultimate destruction. I guess you either believe this, or you don't.
Consider the objective wisdom offered in James 3:13-18: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." I am called by God to be righteous, and I am a great sinner. God has provided a way for me to become righteous through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. The Bible says when we do this, our sins are washed away and we are clothed in Christ's righteousness. He is for us Wisdom (1 Cor. 1:30) and we are called to judge with righteous judgment. This does not mean to be judgmental of others, but to choose to agree to God's perfect judgments demonstrated by living accordingly. God's wisdom is the wisdom from above. Through Christ we can have peace with God, though we live in a fallen and confused world under the sway of Satan.
Let us show by good conduct - according to God's standards - that we walk in the meekness of wisdom. Does God need us to become defensive and furious against all who deny Him? No. Christ is our Peace, and let us sow the good seed of His Word in faith knowing it will not return to Him void. When we see attacks upon God's definition of marriage or Christians standing up for their beliefs, let us recall 2 Timothy 3:12-17 to mind: "Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."
During my lifetime, I have witnessed many changes. I have seen portable music devices go from oversized boom-boxes lugged on the shoulder to Walkman cassette players with headphones to portable CD players and MP3 players with ear buds to a phone that is a computer, camera, work and game station which oh yeah - also plays digital music downloaded from the internet without wires or cables and is stored in your pocket! With the advance of capitalism has come a massive increase in technology, increase of schools and universities, and convenience stores. Walk through a shop today and the range of products is staggering, and everywhere we are faced with choices. And with our freedoms and affluence, our foray into personal entitlement demands we "have it our way." As our independence grows so does our pride. It was not long ago that certain things were certainly right and wrong, but the poison of subjective truth has seeped into the very souls that comprise society - if a man has a soul at all. God has become unnecessary, and even to speak of Him is an ill omen. God, the Bible, the account of creation, and the person of Jesus Christ have been reduced to a grab-bag where people justify themselves to pick and choose what we want to believe - if we believe at all.
God has always given people the right to choose if we will believe Him or not. Remember, He doesn't change. He created man from the dust of the ground and breathed into Him a living soul. He created a mate for Him by removing a rib and fashioning a woman, for she was taken out of man. God established distinct sexes designed to provide companionship, procreate within marriage, a picture of the relationship He desires to have with man, one spurned on by His active, unfailing love. Because of sin, it was not long before the institution God made was under attack, with men divorcing their wives because of the hardness of their hearts. A ploy of Satan was to make Eve question the validity of God's Word, and he uses the same tactic masterfully to this day. When I was growing up, the Bible that gave unheard of protection and provision for women was blamed for their oppression. The God-ordained roles in the marriage relationship were questioned. The existence of sexual sin or illicit relationships was also questioned. Now it has come to a point where a genetically born man is free to choose if he is really a man or a woman. It has become all about us, and the phrase from the satanic bible "Do what thou wilt" has traction like never before. With the erosion of the fear of God has come great confusion. 1 Corinthians 14:33 says, "For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints." The word "confusion" in the Greek is defined as "instability, disorder, confusion." God is a God of order and He does not change. Sin has entered this world and death through sin. Satan opposes God and fights against Him, seeking to subvert his truth. Because we live in a day where men do not measure truth against God's unchanging Word and character, applauding whatever his heart believes is right, we add confusion to our guilt before God.
Today I was driving and caught something out of the corner of my eye. Near my house, several pairs of ducks can often be seen together: a male and his female. The heavens declare the glory of God, and nature itself speaks of order. I smiled to myself as I thought about the wisdom of God. There are very intelligent people who believe humans are descendants of sludge and there is no God. But there by the road, in a very quiet and lovely manner, those two ducks waddled along together. It spoke volumes to me: no matter what changes occur in society, no matter how far we stray from the truth of the scriptures, at least the ducks will keep being ducks. God created them to reproduce after their own kind. They will keep being male and female, and ducks will remain monogamous life-long partners long after the biblical definition of marriage is cast aside by humans, a testimony of God's plan and design. Ducks did not learn this "behaviour" from their parents or from their religious beliefs, but because God placed in them instincts to obey His rule. Is not the wisdom of God past finding out? God gave man the freedom to choose, and sadly most men choose to go their own way - and to their ultimate destruction. I guess you either believe this, or you don't.
Consider the objective wisdom offered in James 3:13-18: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." I am called by God to be righteous, and I am a great sinner. God has provided a way for me to become righteous through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. The Bible says when we do this, our sins are washed away and we are clothed in Christ's righteousness. He is for us Wisdom (1 Cor. 1:30) and we are called to judge with righteous judgment. This does not mean to be judgmental of others, but to choose to agree to God's perfect judgments demonstrated by living accordingly. God's wisdom is the wisdom from above. Through Christ we can have peace with God, though we live in a fallen and confused world under the sway of Satan.
Let us show by good conduct - according to God's standards - that we walk in the meekness of wisdom. Does God need us to become defensive and furious against all who deny Him? No. Christ is our Peace, and let us sow the good seed of His Word in faith knowing it will not return to Him void. When we see attacks upon God's definition of marriage or Christians standing up for their beliefs, let us recall 2 Timothy 3:12-17 to mind: "Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."
03 September 2013
Let Jesus In
Picture a husband and wife recently married. The husband has been away on business and returns to his wife in the middle of the night. The night is cold and damp. Embers glow faintly on the hearth, like eyes peering into the room. In a semi-conscious state, the woman hears her husband knock and call. The drama unfolds at this moment: "I sleep, but my heart is awake; it is the voice of my beloved! He knocks, saying, "Open for me, my sister, my love, my dove, my perfect one; for my head is covered with dew, my locks with the drops of the night."
3
I have taken off my robe; how can I put it on again? I have washed my feet; how can I defile them?" (Song of Songs 5:2-3)
This is a tiny excerpt from King Solomon's "Song of Songs." The bride heard the voice of her beloved as he knocked on the door. He entreated her gently and affectionately, proclaiming his love for her. In his view, she was flawless and without compare. He explained the dew had soaked his hair, and he would very much like to come in. His wife's response is interesting. Despite his love and affection toward her, she remained unmoved. She was very comfortable in her warm bed. She was not wearing her robe and her feet had been freshly washed. She didn't want to have to wash them again! Considering the time, opening the door was most inconvenient. But if she would be honest, these were mere excuses - and selfish at that! As the story continued, the bride finally made it to the door. She dolled herself up a bit, even anointing her hands and fingers with liquid myrrh. Song of Songs 5:6 explains the cost of her delay: "I opened for my beloved, but my beloved had turned away and was gone. My heart leaped up when he spoke. I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer."
The Beloved is a picture of Jesus Christ, who stands at the door and knocks, calling out our names. Revelation 3:19-20 says, "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." Jesus has come to each one of us, even as the husband stood knocking at the door. What He has been doing is inconsequential, for He is always about His Father's business. Jesus does not desire only to purchase us as slaves He orders around, but to commune with us intimately in relationship. But how do we respond when He prompts us to read the Word? To rise early and pray? To go on a walk with Him on a dewy morning when we would much rather stay in bed? If we delay, we can miss important time spent with Him.
When Jesus knocks on the door of our heart, let us open to Him. Let us shake off our slumber and rise immediately in response to Him. Should He rebuke, it is a sure sign of His genuine love. Let us put aside all excuses, and cease trying to make ourselves look good. Open the door just as you are, even if we have laid aside the robe of righteousness He has provided. If our feet are dirty, He will wash them. He has given us this example for us to follow! He will do even more than this, for if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us from all sin and cleans us from all unrighteousness. Humbling ourselves in repentance will bring Him skipping across the mountains to meet with us with great joy. Restoration begins when He knocks and we open the door!
This is a tiny excerpt from King Solomon's "Song of Songs." The bride heard the voice of her beloved as he knocked on the door. He entreated her gently and affectionately, proclaiming his love for her. In his view, she was flawless and without compare. He explained the dew had soaked his hair, and he would very much like to come in. His wife's response is interesting. Despite his love and affection toward her, she remained unmoved. She was very comfortable in her warm bed. She was not wearing her robe and her feet had been freshly washed. She didn't want to have to wash them again! Considering the time, opening the door was most inconvenient. But if she would be honest, these were mere excuses - and selfish at that! As the story continued, the bride finally made it to the door. She dolled herself up a bit, even anointing her hands and fingers with liquid myrrh. Song of Songs 5:6 explains the cost of her delay: "I opened for my beloved, but my beloved had turned away and was gone. My heart leaped up when he spoke. I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer."
The Beloved is a picture of Jesus Christ, who stands at the door and knocks, calling out our names. Revelation 3:19-20 says, "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." Jesus has come to each one of us, even as the husband stood knocking at the door. What He has been doing is inconsequential, for He is always about His Father's business. Jesus does not desire only to purchase us as slaves He orders around, but to commune with us intimately in relationship. But how do we respond when He prompts us to read the Word? To rise early and pray? To go on a walk with Him on a dewy morning when we would much rather stay in bed? If we delay, we can miss important time spent with Him.
When Jesus knocks on the door of our heart, let us open to Him. Let us shake off our slumber and rise immediately in response to Him. Should He rebuke, it is a sure sign of His genuine love. Let us put aside all excuses, and cease trying to make ourselves look good. Open the door just as you are, even if we have laid aside the robe of righteousness He has provided. If our feet are dirty, He will wash them. He has given us this example for us to follow! He will do even more than this, for if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us from all sin and cleans us from all unrighteousness. Humbling ourselves in repentance will bring Him skipping across the mountains to meet with us with great joy. Restoration begins when He knocks and we open the door!
02 September 2013
Love that Governs
God's love is greater than man's comprehension. Yet in His grace God has demonstrated His great love for us through the willing sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is a love so profound and limitless, that if it had size it would extend beyond the known universe. God's love is deeper than an ocean, more powerful than the crushing weight of the greatest waterfalls. About 70% of the earth is covered with water, and very little of it has actually been explored. The best most of us do is roll up our pants and get our feet wet. When it comes to God's love, the same could be said. We can swim out a little into it, but to plumb the depths from our vantage point is impossible.
In preparing for a sermon this week, I was reminded of a post written years ago called "The Ligament of Love." Love is the indispensable bond of perfection in the Body of Christ. This week I was treated to another practical example of God's love in our lives. For a few years, I worked at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego as a private contractor. Here is a picture of one of the ships I worked on in the NASSCO dry dock, known as "the floater" (by the way, I am not in the picture!):
In the picture, the propellers and rudders of the ship can be clearly seen. The movement of the propellers drives the ship forward and the rudder allows the vessel to be safely navigated. Whilst looking at this picture, I was reminded how Christ is intended to be "at the helm" of every Christian's life. The propellers represent the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit who moves us according to Christ's leading. As I thought about it, the rudder of a ship is a wonderful picture of the role of Christ's love in our lives. We are to walk in love, our every action being governed by it. A ship without a rudder would be adrift and ultimately end in disaster, and Paul says that without love we are nothing. This ship could be loaded with all the riches imaginable but could never reach the intended port without a rudder. In the same way, the love of Christ provides resistance to the currents of this world and even the leanings of our flesh so we can fulfill the perfect will of our Captain - who is Christ.
How important it is we keep our rudder in the water! It is imperative we learn to walk in love, being guided by Christ in everything. Only then will we be useable by our Saviour, regardless of the talents or treasures we have been bountifully granted by Him. Ephesians 5:1-2 says, "Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma." May the love of Christ compel us to walk in the manner that fully pleases Him.
In preparing for a sermon this week, I was reminded of a post written years ago called "The Ligament of Love." Love is the indispensable bond of perfection in the Body of Christ. This week I was treated to another practical example of God's love in our lives. For a few years, I worked at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego as a private contractor. Here is a picture of one of the ships I worked on in the NASSCO dry dock, known as "the floater" (by the way, I am not in the picture!):
In the picture, the propellers and rudders of the ship can be clearly seen. The movement of the propellers drives the ship forward and the rudder allows the vessel to be safely navigated. Whilst looking at this picture, I was reminded how Christ is intended to be "at the helm" of every Christian's life. The propellers represent the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit who moves us according to Christ's leading. As I thought about it, the rudder of a ship is a wonderful picture of the role of Christ's love in our lives. We are to walk in love, our every action being governed by it. A ship without a rudder would be adrift and ultimately end in disaster, and Paul says that without love we are nothing. This ship could be loaded with all the riches imaginable but could never reach the intended port without a rudder. In the same way, the love of Christ provides resistance to the currents of this world and even the leanings of our flesh so we can fulfill the perfect will of our Captain - who is Christ.
How important it is we keep our rudder in the water! It is imperative we learn to walk in love, being guided by Christ in everything. Only then will we be useable by our Saviour, regardless of the talents or treasures we have been bountifully granted by Him. Ephesians 5:1-2 says, "Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma." May the love of Christ compel us to walk in the manner that fully pleases Him.
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