Lackey or Leader?

Yesterday I read a familiar text from the book of Judges 5, the narrative of when Jael dispatched general Sisera by hammering a tent peg through his head.  The children of Israel had been oppressed by the Canaanites for 20 years, but God raised up the prophetess Deborah and Barak to defeat their powerful enemies.  Sisera led 900 chariots of iron into battle against Israel, but God aided His people to an improbable victory and routed the Canaanites.  Sisera managed to escape the field of battle and Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite invited him into her tent.  The fleeing general thought he found a safe haven, for the relations between his king Jabin and the house of Heber the Kenite were good.

After she provided milk and a warm blanket Judges 4:20 says, "And he said to her, "Stand at the door of the tent, and if any man comes and inquires of you, and says, 'Is there any man here?' you shall say, 'No.'"  There is no explanation provided for what Jael did next.  She did not appear to be intimidated or afraid of Sisera, seeing she freely invited him into the tent.  Perhaps she had remained loyal to the children of Israel because Heber was a descendant of Jethro, the father-in-law to Moses.  Maybe she feared the God of Israel and decided all who waged war against His people were her enemies as well.  Though she had been tasked by Sisera to guard the door and lie about his whereabouts to throw his pursuers off the trail, Judges 4:21 simply says:  "Then Jael, Heber's wife, took a tent peg and took a hammer in her hand, and went softly to him and drove the peg into his temple, and it went down into the ground; for he was fast asleep and weary. So he died."  Jael then went out to Barak, told him she knew where Sisera was, and showed him the dead corpse.

In seeking to apply this passage to myself, I don't think an appropriate application is "Walk softly and carry a hammer and sharp tent peg."  What I do find compelling is how decisive Jael's actions were.  She was not overwhelmed or intimidated by the enemy general and was determined to bring his deceit upon his own head - quite literally.  She did not feel obligated to obey his request, and always knew in her heart where her loyalties lay.  There is no evidence of any internal conflict, no wavering at all in her plan of action.  She did not seem to worry of retribution from King Jabin or his army, though she lived in a tent without walls, gates, bars, or an army.  This woman was bold, courageous, and without fear.  She took the right course of action without hesitation.  In the Song of Deborah her bravery was lauded, recalling the depth of her commitment.  Judges 5:26 reads, "She stretched her hand to the tent peg, her right hand to the workmen's hammer; she pounded Sisera, she pierced his head, she split and struck through his temple."

The enemy Sisera wanted Jael to be his lackey, but she refused this role.  God delivered his enemy into the hands of a woman as prophesied in the previous chapter by Deborah.  Many who oppose God today are glad to have lackeys in the church, Christians who agree with their worldly perspective and try to influence others to go astray.  The point of application brought home to me from this narrative is I must be willing to take the lead as Jael did, to decisively take action based upon my loyalty to God and His Word.  Many are swayed by the fear of man, and may God's faithful followers not be numbered among them.  We are not called to violent action to achieve any aim, but to follow the example set by Christ to love and serve one another sacrificially.  Jesus was willing to be pierced so I and others could be saved and live forever.  We must take the lead in following Christ's example.  It is not Jael's deception I admire but her decisiveness, and may we be bold in our witness for God even if we are the ones who end up being skewered.

Our Mighty Weapons

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. ⁴ For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, ⁵ casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, ⁶ and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled."

2 Corinthians 10:3-6

In the days of the judges in Israel, God allowed enemies of Israel to remain to test His people.  God wanted His people to know war, and the second generation of Israelites born in Canaan knew nothing of it (Judges 3:1-4).  It may seem a strange thing God would want His people to know war, but the way they were to fight was different from everyone else.  It was never about global domination, but possessing the land allotted by God for them.  Since God promised to fight for His people, the way to victory was found in seeking God and obedience to Him.  The walls of Jericho were not breached by elaborate war machines or the ingenuity of men, but through faith and obedience to God.  David defeated the giant of Gath not with a sword or spear but faith in God and willingness to meet the one who defied God with a sling and stone picked up from a brook on the way.  It was God - not Israel's great military might or weaponry - who caused terror to fall upon the enemies of Israel and turned their swords upon one another.  The children of Israel needed to know how to battle trusting God as they remained obedient to Him.

I believe people who comprise the true church of Jesus Christ today find themselves in a similar position as the second generation born in Canaan.  Though countless believers in the world today suffer oppression and persecution for their faith in Christ, there are many Christians who remain unfamiliar with war.  There are battles in our own lives we do not know how to fight, and we look with concern at the mighty cultural forces rising in society which furiously oppose God.  The great temptation Christians face is the one the children of Israel needed to learn to avoid, the seeking and reliance upon worldly means to achieve "victory."  There is a temptation to launch campaigns against those who oppose biblical morality, to leverage media to spread the word, to contribute financially to activists, labour for political sway, and push legislation to protect ourselves and interests.  This only scratches the surface of the carnal (fleshly, temporal) weapons people use in the world to get their way.  I am not claiming any of these approaches are wrong in themselves, but they are all wrong if they are substitutes for faith in God and obedience to His Word.

Paul understood this very well.  He lived in a degenerate culture filled with political intrigue, scandalous sin, and the rife persecution of Christians.  There was undoubtedly a temptation for Christians to use the very means those in the world employed so effectively.  But Paul realised the way a Christian deals with conflict is to be completely different from the world, for our God fights our battles.  Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers, demonic forces which incessantly labour out of sight to oppose God and destroy His people (Ephesians 6:12).  The conflict we face is primarily a spiritual one.  The only way we can learn to fight and prevail against the onslaught of our enemy (which again are not governments, worldviews, or people but are satanic) is to use the mighty weapons God has provided to pull down strongholds, cast down arguments which oppose God, bring thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ, and maintain the righteous integrity of the church.

God has given Christians the indwelling Holy Spirit who girds us with armour and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.  Prayer is a primary means of rightly fighting the war which rages around us today.  Ephesians 6:18 exhorts us to be "...praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints..."  Instead of praying to carnal ends, according to sight or our fleshly desires, we are to pray according to the will of God revealed in scripture.  IF we believe in the power of our God and the effectiveness of the mighty weapons He has provided, we will make constant use of them.  Worldly weapons have limitations:  there are only so many rounds in a clip, effectiveness of firearms depends upon the aim of the shooter, and a blunted blade is ineffective.  Those who kill with the sword can also die by the sword.  Those who trust in the LORD find themselves eternally victorious even if it seems we are "losing" a culture war.  Fighting a culture war according to the culture is a losing proposition, but the victory of Christ through faith cannot be stripped away - even by Satan himself.

The battle is the LORD's, and this is not a call to careless passivity:  we have received our orders from the Most High, and we are called to fight His battle His way.  Instead of wringing our hands about the state of things, taking up worldly weapons to do battle, or digging in underground with the hope of remaining hidden, God wants us to learn of war so we might walk in victory and freedom.  We can pray like we have already won because God already has.  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 is a fitting exhortation:  "Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."  In the joy of the LORD is our strength.

A Familiar Flavour

Even as we use our senses to discern if food is suitable for eating, so we must be watchful concerning Bible teaching.  Elihu said in Job 34:2-4, "Hear my words, you wise men; give ear to me, you who have knowledge. ³ For the ear tests words as the palate tastes food. ⁴ Let us choose justice for ourselves; let us know among ourselves what is good."  There are foods which looked questionable to me because they were unfamiliar, but when I tried them I agreed they were delicious.  There have also been times when I realised the taste of a familiar food was quite off!  As Christians in this world, there will be unsound teaching which is passed off as biblical the discerning believer will find unpalatable and should reject.  We should not be skeptical or cynical based on appearance alone, but we should be as the noble people of Berea who are described as receiving the Word with readiness of mind and searched the scriptures daily to see if the claims Paul and Silas were valid (Acts 17:11).  And this is the point:  people should not preach themselves or their opinions, but endeavour to preach the Word of God.

As children of God filled with the Holy Spirit who guides us into all truth, we can discern truth from error.  Seminary degrees have their merit, but they are no substitute for the indwelling presence of God.  Just because a man is revered as a Greek scholar does not mean he is infallible, and some who claim to be filled with the Holy Spirit are full of nonsense.  The Word of God, the Bible, is a indispensable beacon of divine light, a revelation of God's truth He has placed above His own name.  We do not worship the scriptures, but the scriptures reveal the God who inspired them and our Saviour who is worthy of all worship.  People usually are playing a sort of game when they tell you to close your eyes and taste food, and no child of God ought to blindly swallow down whatever is offered to them.

How can we know what is sound teaching?  By using scripture to interpret scripture.  The study of scripture can be a very complex process, but it is understood easily enough by those who have faith in God and a hunger to know and do the truth.  Jesus spoke many parables which remained unsolvable mysteries to unbelievers, but they were designed to reveal spiritual truth to those who believed.  Knowledge of scripture helps us to know when teaching diverts from it - even for a moment.  God is able to even use dubious interpretations of men to lead men to discovering the truth.  One of my favourite examples of this is in the Daily Bread devotional titled, "The Oyster Man."  God's grace is no excuse to justify wilful ignorance, but God's Word preached even by unlearned men has power to impact people for eternity.

Paul exhorted Timothy in light of the deceivers in the world to "Preach the Word!"  We live in a day where many people will not submit to sound doctrine but have turned aside to fables, emotionally stirring vignettes, and worldly wisdom.  The way we avoid error is to keep ourselves aligned with the scriptures.  We should be familiar with the Bible as we are with the taste of salt.  We know when food is savoury, and know when it needs salt.  Whenever I cook dinner and the result is a little different than normal, my wife and kids always know.  I can't slip a half teaspoon of chilli or curry powder into lentil soup without notice, and we should notice when a preacher veers from the truth of the Bible.  If the flavour is a bit off, ask questions and dig into the Bible.  Let us put into practice the truth of God's Word, searching the scriptures to confirm what is preached.

Different Beliefs

Yesterday I read John 4 and took note of the instance when a nobleman came from Capernaum seeking Jesus in Cana of Galilee.  The man left his dying son behind and made a day's journey to beg Jesus to come heal his son.  The determined man's request was met with a response from Jesus which seems a bit odd.  John 4:48 says, "Then Jesus said to him, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe."  One might argue the great distance the man travelled was indicative of genuine belief, but Jesus knew better.

John 4:49-50 reads, "The nobleman said to Him, "Sir, come down before my child dies!" ⁵⁰ Jesus said to him, "Go your way; your son lives." So the man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him, and he went his way."  The way the nobleman addresses Jesus as "Sir" is proof he did not believe in the divine nature of Jesus - though he was willing to travel far in his desperate search to help his son.  Upon hearing the words of Jesus, the man "believed the word" Jesus spoke to him.  The man believed Jesus could help him, and he believed the words Jesus said.  But did he really believe?

John 4:51-53 concludes the story:  "And as he was now going down, his servants met him and told him, saying, "Your son lives!" ⁵² Then he inquired of them the hour when he got better. And they said to him, "Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him." ⁵³ So the father knew that it was at the same hour in which Jesus said to him, "Your son lives." And he himself believed, and his whole household."  As the man travelled home, he was met by his servants who brought excellent news:  his son was out of danger and well!  The man inquired of when exactly the fever had left the boy, and their answer confirmed it was the precise time Jesus promised his son would live.  The initial claim of Jesus was verified, that the man would not believe without signs and wonders.  The man had believed Jesus could heal his son, believed the word He spoke, but it took a miracle for the man to believe in Jesus as LORD.

I wonder if this is true of many who profess "belief" in Christ:  they hope Jesus can help or save them and believe His words, but they do not genuinely believe in Jesus.  These believe in the existence of God, are familiar with Jesus and the events of His life, and even acknowledge the wisdom and power displayed by Jesus, yet do not believe in the way this nobleman and his house came to believe.  I believe God still does signs and wonders today, but they are not needed (though can be useful!) for salvation because we have the Bible which has recorded many miracles Jesus and His disciples performed.  Jesus affirms this to Thomas in John 20:29-31:  "Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." ³⁰ And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; ³¹ but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name."

People's beliefs vary and their kind of belief can be different as well.  Thomas said to Jesus after seeing Him risen from the dead, "My LORD and my God!"  That's the kind of belief we need to have if we will have Jesus as our Saviour.  What sort of belief do you have concerning Jesus?  A belief which has moved you to seek Him?  Belief which has resulted in believing His word?  Or belief that transforms your life and makes Jesus your Master and King?

Looking Forward

As you consider the future, are there things you are looking forward to?  Whether it is an event, an opportunity, a celebration, or accomplishment, there are things we all look forward to with joyful expectancy.  When I purchase a gift for someone, I look forward to the moment I can give it to them.  To give is better than to receive, but it is perfectly valid to look forward to receiving a gift as well.  I remember very well circling the Christmas tree at my Grandpa and Grandma's house, casually taking note of the intended recipient of each gift.  It was not permitted on Christmas Eve to pick up a gift, but looking at the gifts was fine.  We kids looked forward to receiving the gifts intended for us to receive.  As we mature we learn to value the giver over the gift.

Do you know God has gifts intended for each follower of Jesus Christ to receive whilst on this planet as well upon our entry into eternal glory?  Is there found in us a heart of gratefulness and thanksgiving for all we have already received and also a sense of expectancy in looking forward to our future home in heaven?  I believe it is completely legitimate for us to look forward to our future heavenly reward provided by God's grace.  There are some super-spiritual people who say things like, "I've been so blessed now, anything I receive in heaven will be a bonus."  While in a sense this is true, should we minimise the value of the reward God has set aside for us?  Heaven is something to look forward to, and I don't want to miss out on any reward God intends for me.  John gave this exhortation in light of the deceivers in the world in 2 John 1:8:  "Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for, but that we may receive a full reward."

It is not selfishness or pride which moves us to receive all the gifts God has for us.  Paul said we should earnestly desire spiritual gifts, and the obedient seek to lay hold of all God offers.  When we receive a crown of glory in heaven, it will be of such purity and value like nothing we possessed in our mortal frame.  In our fallen flesh we give God our sin and He provides His righteousness in exchange.  The work of Christ is described in Isaiah 61:1-3:  "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; ² to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, ³ to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified."  See these divine exchanges?  We can only give ourselves, and in ourselves we are no prize.  Praise the LORD He values us, loves us, and can be glorified through these clay vessels (to which we are compared), that His glory shines through us.

In the Book of the Revelation twenty-four elders are described as casting down their crowns before the throne of God in worship.  It is a lovely picture of the redeemed emphatically and completely giving to God what God had given to them.  We don't need to wait for heaven to do this, for we can give unto God the glory due His name today.  That being said, more and more I look forward to being in the presence of God in a glorified body without the hindrance of the flesh and this mind which needs constant renewing and reminding and giving God praise.  Our vision is a bit blurry now, but one day it will be flawless.  All we have is a gift provided by God, and God is not through giving.  It follows we ought to look forward to receiving these gracious gifts, for in doing so we will bring Him greater honour and praise forever.  Are you looking forward to heaven?  Are your affections engaged with God there?  Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.  There is more treasure in store for those who treasure Christ above all.

On the Rooftop

The world is filled with problems too large for anyone to fix.  We would like to think in our modern day we have outpaced the sins of our fathers, but human nature has remained unchanged and corrupted.  Like weeds which spring up from the dirt, we see in our generation the same bigotry, racism, violence, politics, and intolerance in abundance.  Followers of Jesus Christ like me find ourselves trying to find a quiet place on the corner of the rooftop to avoid being swept away by the rising flood of secularism and are immediately drenched to the bone by the dripping of liberal Christians who dismiss our biblical stance.  I don't expect applause from the world for standing on the Word of God.  I don't expect to be understood or appreciated by people who oppose my biblical position or even to be realistically portrayed or represented by those who publicly claim to speak for Christians.  God is my only real Advocate.

In Australia there will soon be a national vote held to discern if people are in favour of changing the Constitution to allow for same-sex marriage, departing from the narrow definition established by God in the Bible.  People are divided if there should be a vote at all, not to mention how people should vote!  I expect the volume of this debate to keep rising over the coming days because that is what happens once everyone has said their piece - without much effect.  A vote will not settle the subject, for even if a change was decided upon in Parliament people would still hold to their beliefs.  All a vote will prove is we do not agree.  My view of what marriage is has never been contingent on a government, constitution, or man's tradition but based upon my understanding of what God has said in His unchanging Word.  Regardless of how a government or society views or defines marriage, God's ordination of a marriage between one man and one woman has been clearly expressed in the Bible and this truth will endure.  Years ago I wrote a parable on this topic called "Sodium Chloride and the Chemist."

It is one thing when people outside the church disagree, but it is a stern challenge of unity when people who claim loyalty to Christ see things differently from scripture.  Even still, we do not need to become angry, frustrated, unloving, or fierce towards others.  We are called to be joyful, patient, and endure to the end.  The Bible has foretold many times in the New Testament that people will depart from the true faith, "...having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof" (2 Tim. 3:1-5)  People will have "itching ears" and heap unto themselves teachers who tell them what they want to hear rather than teachers who according to scripture convince, rebuke, and exhort others to live righteously according to God's standard (2 Tim. 4:3-4).  This was happening in Paul's day, and it is happening even now.  When we find ourselves forced onto a rooftop we ought to plainly declare the Word of God, keep believing it, and continue obeying it.  Regardless of what others were doing, Paul exhorted Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:5, "But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfil your ministry."

Whether Caesar Nero was in power or there were wolves in sheep's clothing in the church spouting falsehood, Timothy was to keep his eyes open, endure afflictions, continue to share the Good News of the Gospel, and finish the work God had called him to do.  And what is the work God has called us to do?  The primary part of doing God's work is to believe on Jesus, the One God has sent (John 6:29).  God had called Timothy to feed the flock of God by preaching the Word, even as Jesus and Paul had done.  The scripture is perfectly capable to make a man of God complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17).  When we love God and love others, we don't need to be afraid of what is happening in the world or angry at those who wrongfully accuse us.  We will not be required to answer for the policies of our government, but we will be judged for our attitudes, behaviour, words, and responses towards other people.  How important it is we honour God's Word over the opinions of men!  Jesus is the Judge who will provide for us a robe and crown of righteousness, having purchased us with His own blood.  Instead of living to please ourselves and those who will pass away, let us honour the One who endures forever by proclaiming His love from the rooftops.

Learning to Cut Straight

When reading the Bible, prior knowledge, commentaries, and personal notes can be an obstacle to learning.  We can easily gloss over basic observations which have obscured by our familiarity with a passage.  People (myself included) can limit the observations, interpretations, and applications of scripture to our prior understanding instead of considering the text as if we have never read it before.

I am convinced the most important step in studying the Bible may be the most simple one:  the step of observation, gleaning facts from the scripture.  Just like a detective meticulously inspects a crime scene, we must leave the passage undisturbed by our personal bias or experience.  We must not allow a sermon we heard years ago (true and meaningful as it was) to derail thorough observation today. We should never assume we already know all God intends to reveal to us, no matter how much knowledge we possess.  God's Word is like a fire, like a hammer that breaks rock in pieces.  It can burn within us like the disciples Jesus taught on the road to Emmaus, and it can pulverise our hard hearts like the convicted people who earnestly said in light of their sin, "What shall we do?"

No matter how much we study the Bible, one error all can fall into is to insert ourselves into the text whilst observing it.  If we place ourselves into the text in the observation phase, our interpretation will be skewed and fall short of the meaning of the passage.  Understand the Bible is divinely inspired and written by human authors in various formats such as historical narrative, poetry, prophecy, instructive letters, and parables.  The Bible is God's Word to us, yet it was given to others before us.  We must consider the context.  On our quest for divine truth, the path, process, and destination are all important.  In physics class it was impressed upon me the correct process was of greater importance than the "right" answer.  Being able to explain why we have arrived at a conclusion and being able to replicate it is superior to copy the right answer without showing your work.

I encourage you, brothers and sisters in Christ, be willing to take time to cultivate the skill of solid Bible study with interpretation and personal application.  Paul's exhortation in 2 Timothy 2:15 is fitting for every child of God to apply personally: "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."  The word for "dividing" means to "cut straight, to dissect correctly."  Having worked in a trade with my hands for over a decade, I can affirm learning to cut straight is a skill developed by practice.  Just because a perfectly straight line is marked on a sheet of stainless steel does not mean a person can cut perfectly on that line.  Manual dexterity and strength is important to complete the job.  Using the right tool is only part of the process, for we need the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth.  Knowing what you believe is good, but can you explain the basis of your belief and corresponding actions from scripture?  Understanding how we arrived at a particular destination will help us navigate even difficult passages in the future.

When Liberty is Beside the Point

A born-again follower of Jesus has been freed from the penalty and power of sin by the Gospel.  The freedom and liberty from sin we have in Christ is not license to sin.  Many who tout their "liberty" as a Christian approach it as a "right" we have as children of God - usually to justify themselves.  This assertion of "liberty" effectively ends any conversation about sinful behaviour or potentially stumbling others.  While it is true a Christian is not under the Mosaic Law and all things are lawful, Paul affirmed not all things are good for me or others (1 Cor. 6:12).  It is in this case liberty is beside the point.

Perhaps an illustration would be beneficial.  I knew a man who was diagnosed with diabetes, a serious condition which effects the entire body.  Complications of diabetes can significantly impact the quality and length of life.  There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed through medication, diet, exercise, and monitoring glucose levels.  Unhealthy activities like smoking cigarettes should be avoided, as it negatively affects blood circulation.  I am sad to say the life of my friend was cut short because he did not take seriously the impact of his lifestyle on his illness.  He was a heavy smoker and from what I remember he ate what he wanted when he wanted.  Even after he lost his foot and leg to gangrene, he kept on smoking.

Now my friend was a Christian and did not practice anything immoral or illegal (to my knowledge).  He was a man who enjoyed milkshakes, cheeseburgers, and cigarettes, and he was at liberty to do all of the above.  But these choices proved to be damaging to his body and prematurely left his wife without a husband and his young children without a dad.  Because we live in a body of flesh in a world steeped in sin, there are temptations which will stir up our desires to sin.  Many things are not evil in themselves, but they do us no good.  There are things we can take in through our eyes, ears, and mouths which are legal but are not helpful; we have freedom and liberty to watch what we want without condemnation yet we wound our souls.  I am sure my friend's life would have been prolonged had he established some clear boundaries in his life according to his doctor's orders, and many people's spiritual well-being has been compromised because under the guise of liberty in Christ they slowly are poisoning and killing themselves with practices which lead to sin.  We must be led by the Spirit, and He will lead us to do what is righteous.

When it comes to our decisions, we make a mistake to limit the impact of our choices to ourselves.  It is helpful for us to consider how our decisions could impact others negatively.  I wonder:  if my friend could have seen into the future and knew foods he ate and cigarettes he smoked would have ended his life so soon, would he have made radical changes?  What if that was you?  Paul was willing to forgo liberties to avoid even the potential of stumbling others because he loved God and others.  Rather than toeing the line or dancing around sin, it would be better for us to answer these questions honestly:  is this good for me?  Is it helpful for my walk with Jesus?  Does it provide any occasion to stumble one who is a young Christian?  Is this thing bringing me or my thoughts under its power?  Are my decisions based on love for others?  All sacrifices we make for Christ because we love Him and others will only enrich us and provide greater freedom.

The Benefit of Failure

Our mistakes have the ability to teach us things instant success never could.  Sinful choices reveal our limitations, short-sightedness, bankruptcy of good character, and an abundance of wickedness.  It is only God's grace which can take a failure and make it the impetus to positive, lasting change.  Our mistakes can produce sorrowful repentance not to be repented of (2 Cor. 7:10).  Peter said he would never deny Jesus, and three times the same night he did.  When he realised what he had done and remembered what Jesus had said, he wept bitterly.  That was the last time recorded in scripture Peter ever wavered concerning his absolute loyalty and public commitment to Jesus.  His failure was the path to redemption, for he had a Redeemer in Christ.

I don't know anyone who enjoys admitting they have made a mistake or have done wrong, but sorrow over sin is helpful to promote spiritual maturity.  Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 7:3-5, "Sorrow is better than laughter, for by a sad countenance the heart is made better. ⁴ The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth. ⁵ It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise than for a man to hear the song of fools."  It is important to recognise the biblical definition of the wise and fools has all to do with a person's perspective of God.  The wise man hears the words of Jesus and practices them, but the fool lives as if there is no God besides self.  In theatre or film most prefer comedies over tragedies, but there is value in considering the sober consequences of sinful decisions.  We learn more about life through tragedy than jokes.  Solomon said it is better to be rebuked by a wise man than to hear the song of fools.  Better to see the error of our ways in the light of scripture and take intentional steps to change than to try to drink and sing our troubles away.

It is wonderful when we are wise to learn from the tragedies of others rather than blazing sinful trails ourselves.  As long as we live in these bodies of flesh sin is inevitable, but we ought to take steps to avoid it and practice righteousness.  God has given us the Holy Spirit and the Bible to guide us, and when we sin and fail we can warn others of the undeniably awful consequences of that lifestyle.  Things which soil our minds and wound our souls ought to be put far from us.  It is good to have a long memory of the disastrous results of sin, the bitterness of guilt, and retain the sense of shame and horror of transgression so we will not persist in evil.  At the same time, Christians are to live in the light without condemnation for our past, washed clean and pure by the blood of Jesus Christ.  Humbled by God's pardon and deemed righteous by grace, our joy is full as we have fellowship with God and walk in obedience to Him.

Proverbs 9:8-10 says, "Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. ⁹ Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. ¹⁰ The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."  These verses prompt two questions we should ask ourselves:  how do I respond to rebuke, and do I fear God and love men enough to rebuke others?  A wise man walks in God's ways and gently rebukes those who wander into or persist in sin.  If we resent those who correct us, we play the fool.  Even if people are harsh and unfair in their judgment of us, let us determine to love and pray for them.  It is fitting we should sorrow over our sins, and godly sorrow produces repentance and a new beginning.  We will fail, but our gracious Saviour who makes all things new will never fail us.

As the LORD Has Said

"Now therefore, give me this mountain of which the LORD spoke in that day; for you heard in that day how the Anakim were there, and that the cities were great and fortified. It may be that the LORD will be with me, and I shall be able to drive them out as the LORD said."

Joshua 14:12

When I read Joshua 14 this morning I was reminded of the importance of hearing, believing, and remembering what God has said.  We often "have not because we ask not," and we may not ask because we have forgotten.  It had been 45 years since Caleb walked through Canaan as a spy sent by Moses, but he had not forgotten the promise God made to him through Moses.  Verse 12 begins with "now therefore" because Caleb's request was based upon the premise provided in the prior verses.

Caleb said in Joshua 14:7-11, "I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh Barnea to spy out the land, and I brought back word to him as it was in my heart. ⁸ Nevertheless my brethren who went up with me made the heart of the people melt, but I wholly followed the LORD my God. ⁹ So Moses swore on that day, saying, 'Surely the land where your foot has trodden shall be your inheritance and your children's forever, because you have wholly followed the LORD my God.' ¹⁰ And now, behold, the LORD has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, ever since the LORD spoke this word to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness; and now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. ¹¹ As yet I am as strong this day as on the day that Moses sent me; just as my strength was then, so now is my strength for war, both for going out and for coming in."

At eighty-five Caleb asked for the inheritance of land where his feet had walked decades before:  it was a mountainous land inhabited by giants who dwelt in fortified strongholds.  Though his natural strength and ability to fight remained as a man in his prime of life, it was not his own strength Caleb relied upon.  He knew if God went with him he would be able to drive out the inhabitants "as the LORD said."  Is there found in us a heart of humility, faith, and recall as in Caleb concerning God's Word?  Is there in us a boldness to lay claim of our inheritance God has offered by His grace?  The God who kept Caleb alive enabled him to be victorious and dwell peacefully in land others would have been fearful to enter as a tourist.

For me Caleb's request and God's fulfilment illustrates the power of faith in the life of a believer.  When Caleb reported back to Moses and the people concerning the land, it was not like the area he explored was an idyllic paradise of quiet streams and fruit trees without mountains, giants, and fortified cities.  Caleb had boldly walked up the mountain and saw their strongholds with his own eyes.  Perhaps he even walked right up to the fortress and placed his hand on it thinking, "One day God is going to throw this down and I will be there to see it according to His Word."  Instead of being intimidated by the apparent strength of the inhabitants of the land, Caleb and Joshua said in Numbers 14:8-9, "If the LORD delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, 'a land which flows with milk and honey.' ⁹ Only do not rebel against the LORD, nor fear the people of the land, for they are our bread; their protection has departed from them, and the LORD is with us. Do not fear them."

Have you ever been intimidated by a piece of bread?  Probably not!  Yet we likely have all been afraid of circumstances or future threats and by our unbelief denied the One who has promised to defend and fight for us.  Whilst those who did not believe God wept at the prospect of facing giants, Caleb saw the inhabitants of the land as bread easily consumed because the LORD was with him.  May we also demonstrate such conviction and boldness to believe and remember all God has said, laying claim to what He has freely offered us of His goodness.

The Cleansing Christ

"You have set our iniquities before You, our secret sins in the light of Your countenance."

Psalm 90:8

The grace of God has been on display before Moses the servant of God penned this psalm inspired by the Holy Spirit.  God knows everything about us even though we have sinned.  He knows of our secret sins (ones we may not yet be aware of) and remains loving and compassionate toward us.  Our patience quickly runs out for "slow" learners, but God is patient with even the stubborn and disobedient.  If God will not write us off, we ought not to write anyone else off either.

The key verse of this mornings's message at Calvary Chapel Sydney was 1 John 1:9 which reads, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  As God's children, if we will meet His conditions to freely admit our guilt, He will pardon us of the sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  Jesus has washed us of the penalty of sin and freed us from its power through His death and resurrection.  Though this spiritual transaction has been accomplished and cannot be earned or added to, confession and repentance ought to mark our lives as children of the light because we still sin.  As long as we live in these bodies of flesh in a world hostile to God, we will fall short of perfection.  God, on the other hand, will never fail us.

One thing about walking in the light is our previously secret sins are now visible to us like never before.  As long as we were chained in darkness we could not see how profoundly we needed cleansing.  When it comes to confessing our sin we often resemble young boys who can't understand after playing outside all day we need a shower - because just showered last week!  Our most thorough confession today does not include iniquity tomorrow may reveal.  The moment a cloud passes between us and the light of our Saviour, we ought to do our part to restore the break in fellowship.

The fact God knows all our sin up front and freely paid the price for them all is amazing, isn't it?  There was not a sin in the world God did not take into account when the blood of Jesus was shed on Calvary, and His blood atoned even for secret sins of those who repent and trust in Him.  Praise the LORD for the pardon granted us by His grace, and that we can be called the children of God without spot or blemish!

Light IN the Tunnel

Last night I prayed that God would give "light at the end of the tunnel."  No sooner had the words left my mouth I was instantly convicted by the Holy Spirit.  Certainly God knew what I meant, but being unbiblical I was struck with the realisation it was not a prayer God would honour.  His gentle, gracious correction was appreciated and thus my perspective and prayers changed.

The cliche "light at the end of the tunnel" is often employed to suggest there is a new glimmer of hope in our circumstances.  Our situation and all around us seems dark, but light implies there is hope ahead.  Instead of looking with eyes of faith, it perceives good changes await us in the future.  The end of our trial is in sight, and we can rest assured (based upon what we see) a good outcome lays before us.  Brothers and sisters, let us not forget God has promised never to leave or forsake us.  Jesus Christ is the Light of the World, and in Him is no darkness at all!  If we find ourselves in a dark place and we are straining our eyes for a glimpse of light at the end of the tunnel, we have forgotten to look to Jesus and trust His promises.  Perhaps we have forgotten the Holy Spirit dwells within us!

Consider the words of David in Psalm 27:1:  "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"  David was no stranger to dark places as he fled from King Saul who sought his life.  He often sought refuge in the darkness of caves in En Gedi, an oasis in the desert one can visit near the Dead Sea in Israel today.  God was David's refuge and was a light for him in dark places.  Now was David afraid sometimes?  Sure!  But in the moment of clarity when he wrote Psalm 27 inspired by the Holy Spirit, he realised all his fears were unfounded because God was with him and was his light and salvation.  David made mistakes navigating dark places, but God brought him through all victorious.  Knowing Jesus is our light and salvation requires us to walk in faith.

In his book The Pursuit of God, hear what A.W. Tozer wrote about faith:  "Faith is not in itself a meritorious act; the merit is in the One toward Whom it is directed.  Faith is a redirecting of our sight, a getting out of the focus of our own vision and getting God into focus.  Sin has twisted our vision inward and made is self-regarding.  Unbelief has put self where God should be, and is perilously close to the sin of Lucifer who said, "I will set my throne above the throne of God."  Faith looks out instead of in and the whole life falls into line...The Word induces us to lift up our eyes unto the Lord and the blessed work of faith begins." (Tozer, A. W. The Pursuit of God. Camp Hill, PA: WingSpread Publications, 1993. Print. pg. 85) Instead of looking to ourselves for strength or wisdom, we are called to look to God.  If Jesus is our light and salvation and we are experiencing fellowship with Him, we will not be in darkness even if we find ourselves in caves and or lost in a network of tunnels and trials which seem endless.

When God is your light and salvation, don't hope for "light at the end of the tunnel."  When we have fellowship with God, we have Light brighter than the sun.  Who should we fear besides Him?

Love Trumps Social Justice

God's ways are higher and better than man's ways.  All God made is good, but men lose the plot by going their own way.  It seems like these days the push for "social justice" and "equality" has been frenetic.  Many people feel their "rights" are being trampled through government overreach and a lack of representation.  There appears to be an overweening sense of entitlement among people which is being expressed through protests, rallies, and proposed legislation (and pushing back against said legislation).

I saw a sign the other day which read, "Equality is a right."  I cannot agree with this statement wholesale (as catchy and popular as it might be), because the truth of it depends upon the context.  First of all, this view can only be sustained by acknowledging God's existence and rule as the United States "Declaration of Independence" states, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."  Based on scripture I believe the chief unalienable rights of people God has created are the knowledge of God and eternal life through Jesus Christ.  Life, liberty, and happiness are only realised through being born again and experiencing spiritual regeneration.  Things which used to be "self-evident" have today been overthrown in a sea of subjectivity.  Maybe there was a day when people believed they had a Creator, but most today do not acknowledge or live in light of this biblical truth.

All men are created equal by God, but all would agree not everyone's station in this life are equal.  God has given authority to kings and governments to make and enforce laws their subjects are to submit to, the roles of a husband and wife are distinguished by God who ordained marriage, and children are responsible before God to honour their father and mother.  When God no longer has the right to command and rule, men have nothing besides natural law which ultimately degrades into lawlessness and anarchy where all do what is right in their own eyes.  If "equality" is a right provided at random by the cosmos, there is nothing which distinguishes the nature of a monkey from a man or the authority of a child from the Prime Minister.  The great leveller of mankind is the ultimate judgment of God when all people will stand before Him and give an account for their lives.  Naked we are born, and naked we go to our graves.  People will be separated by God even as a shepherd distinguishes sheep from goats.  Even then there will be varying degrees of responsibility people have based upon their knowledge.  The punishment of the wicked will have levels of severity, even as only some of those deemed righteous through faith will receive a full reward.  No one has the right to eternal life, but God gives freely to those who meet His conditions.

Here is the point of this rambling:  social justice and human rights ought not to be the battle cry or aim of the church, but our lives should proclaim grace and love for all.  Social justice focuses on the marginalised people, those viewed as the minority, and the poor.  The Bible says we ought to help the widow, the fatherless, and the stranger.  Our motivation for doing so is not their intrinsic human rights, but because we have freely received life and love and extend it to others in joyful obedience to God.  It is all of grace, not of perceived worthiness.  Jesus did not come to earth to save us because we lacked social justice - if God gave us justice we would rightly be destroyed forever!  Jesus came as a revelation of God's love for us which does not depend upon our ethnicity, sex, age, or "good" performance.  He died unjustly on a cross so God's justice would be satisfied and we could receive the free gift of salvation when we repent and trust in Him.  The Gospel has been freely offered to all by God's grace, and we too ought to show love, compassion, mercy, grace to all people, regardless of their social status.

When we are born again, filled with the Holy Spirit, and are obedient to God's leading, our good relationship with God will affect others in this world positively.  We can experience life, liberty, and joy through knowledge and obedience to Christ we can share with others.  Free from the shackles of humanism we can meet practical needs without strings attached, sharing God's love from a pure heart.  The world's concepts of love and justice are broken, but we who have been made whole have been set apart by God as His ambassadors so all might taste and see God is good.  

Say It Like It Is

A Melbourne cafe has been international news of late for a chalkboard sign which clearly states the shop's principles.  The part which had people talking was the 18% tax placed upon men to draw awareness of a "gender pay gap" according to statistics.  As a man, the statement of the cafe being a "space by women for women" does nothing to make me feel like a welcomed or valued patron.  I appreciate the candour of the establishment, but I would choose to buy coffee elsewhere.  They are free to to business as they want, and I am free to buy coffee or a meal at the venue of my choice.  Works for me!

Whether you agree with the ideology of the cafe or not, one thing I applaud management for is taking a clear stand even when it is a debatable or potentially unpopular one.  Instead of creating a meaningful conversation, however, this sort of stance seems to promote division and isolation.  Followers of Jesus have to navigate the troubled waters of society in trusting obedience to Christ whilst lovingly reaching out to people who are staunchly opposed to Him.  Jesus said we shouldn't be surprised when people hate us because He was hated first - and He only did what was right!  Christians face conflicts outside and inside the church, not to mention personal conflict within us.  We seem to bounce between vilifying fellow believers by legalism and ignoring or even accepting sinful conduct as good in an attempt to show grace.  It is a challenge to ensure our beliefs are reflected in personal morality according to the truth stated in the Bible.

It is the Holy Spirit and the bold declaration of the Word of God which will help us navigate the troubles and conflicts we face daily.  When Joshua entered the land of Canaan and was granted victory by God at Ai, Joshua built an altar to the LORD and wrote out the Law given to Moses.  Joshua 8:33 then states, "Then all Israel, with their elders and officers and judges, stood on either side of the ark before the priests, the Levites, who bore the ark of the covenant of the LORD, the stranger as well as he who was born among them. Half of them were in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal, as Moses the servant of the LORD had commanded before, that they should bless the people of Israel."  In the congregation of Israel there was a mixture of people:  elders, officers, judges, priests, Levites, and even strangers.  The Law was read plainly without apology, for this was the word of the LORD.   All people in the gathering were exposed to the truth.  No one had to remain among the people of Israel who sought to obey God, just like no one has to eat at the cafe in Melbourne.  Nothing was being forced down anyone's throat.  But for those who chose to remain among God's people they were to hear the truth and obey it, submitting to scripture to shape their beliefs and lives.  It is expected for people in the world to go their own way and follow their hearts, but in our congregations the Word of God must be declared boldly to all and we are accountable to it.  We should not skip over difficult or controversial bits.  We should not try to tweak the Bible to align it with current philosophies or because it could divide.  We should not apologise for how offensive it may be to modern minds.  Would to God His Word would provoke conversation, but more than that:  personal transformation of our hearts and minds.  That's something only God's Word can do.

When we boldly declare God's Word in a spirit of meekness, gentleness, and humility as Jesus did, we will do well.  Many problems and divisions in the church exist because we have not been faithful to do so.  We have not called sins what God calls it:  sin.  The Bible ought to be preeminent in our meetings and messages so people are exposed to God's declared truth, even as Joshua wrote the Law on stones or the policies of the cafe in Melbourne were plainly written in chalk for the whole world to see.  Before very long people who are around us should realise we believe the Bible is the literal Word of God, we believe it without apology, and God help us - we will put it into practice.  If this offends them, we understand and will keep loving them.  Our resolve must shine forth that regardless of threats, protests, or even legal action we will never, ever budge from our allegiance to God and make no apologies for His clearly revealed truth.  God alone has the words of life, and we ought to value His Word above our own lives.  If they are not true we truly are without hope.

Our Real Need

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; ⁶ in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

Proverbs 3:5-6

I have been often reminded of these verses lately, and these words has been refreshing to my soul.  One might think the rudimentary principles of the faith are dry and boring, but the reality is quite the opposite.  How much insight and wisdom for life are plainly stated in these verses!  It is one thing to remember or comprehend the meaning of the scripture, but another thing entirely to see it consistently a reality in my life.

Lately I have been considering things I can do to share the truth of Christ with others.  I have much I am already doing, but my heart desires to do more.  There is no no shortage of need in this world, and countless causes which are genuine and worthy of pursuit.  But God has used the process of being prepared for ministry whilst working in a trade and the saga of immigrating to Australia and becoming a citizen to show me I can expend much effort and thought in trying to accomplish myself what only God can do.  He is the One who clearly opens doors and graciously provides the ability to pass through them in His time.  Caleb and Joshua had walked through the land of promise as spies, but it was 40 years later before God led them in as conquerors and caused them to dwell therein.  God sometimes gives us a glimpse of something which moves our hearts with desire and expectancy, but the fulfilment remains in the future.  Faith affirms that in His time, God will bring it to pass - and may even use us in the process.

Proverbs 3:5-6 remains relevant in all seasons of our lives as we follow Jesus.  We need to trust the LORD with all our hearts, with undivided affections and obedience.  It is very easy for us to lean on our own understanding and walk by sight and not by faith in God's Word.  Joshua leaned on God for the victory at Jericho, but leaned on his own understanding and the opinions of men before the failure at Ai.  When we acknowledge God in all our ways, we will walk wisely.  Those who only acknowledge God in areas of their lives work folly as Achan did and corrupt rather than strengthen.  He was obedient to follow the Ark of the Covenant and the priests as they walked around Jericho, but took for himself of the spoil which had been claimed by God as His own.  As we are led by the Spirit of God, abiding in God's love, He will direct our paths; He will make our path clear and straight.  In keeping the Word of God we will rightly discern the will of God.

These verses have renewed the exhortation that I trust God will all my heart and acknowledge God in all my ways.  Leaning on my own understanding leads to confusion, disillusionment, and conflict, but God will direct my paths when I seek Him first.  Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 6:26-33, "Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? ²⁷ Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? ²⁸ So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; ²⁹ and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ³⁰ Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? ³¹ Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' ³² For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. ³³ But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."

Praise God He provides all we need when we seek Him.  He knows what we need, and since our ministry unto Him is His work, He will guide and direct us in the right way without fail.  How glorious it is when we realise our deepest needs and longing are not met by our efforts or sacrifice but are satisfied completely in Him.  Help me to truly learn and remember this Father!

Reproach Rolled Away

There is great richness found in the Bible.  Details which are minor and seemingly insignificant can help us better understand other passages of scripture.  My morning Bible reading finds me in the book of Joshua, and I am enjoying reading the familiar passages as if it is the first time.  One detail which stood out to me like never before occurred after the children of Israel passed over Jordan on dry ground.  Obedience to God was required before a visit from the "captain of the LORD's host" and the victory at Jericho.  God commanded the males to be circumcised, for during the 40 years after the exodus from Egypt no males had been circumcised.  Circumcision was commanded under the Law and important because it identified people with the covenant God made with Abraham.

Joshua 5:8-9 states, "So it was, when they had finished circumcising all the people, that they stayed in their places in the camp till they were healed. ⁹ Then the LORD said to Joshua, "This day I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you." Therefore the name of the place is called Gilgal to this day."  The name "Gilgal" means "circle of stones, rolled away."  The circumcision of the flesh was the path to healing and wholeness, for in the voluntary shedding of blood people submitted to God in obedience.  The people bore the reproach of Egypt and their neglect of obedience to the Law for decades, but God graciously rolled their reproach away.  "Reproach" is shame and disgrace, and only God can free us from the burden of sin.  It is not the circumcision of the flesh which is now required, but the circumcision of our hearts by repentance and faith in Jesus Christ (Deut. 30:6; Acts 15:8-9).

After Jesus was crucified on Calvary, He was wrapped in linen and buried in a tomb carved out of solid rock.  A massive stone was laid on the opening, secured with Pilate's seal, and guarded by Romans.  The sins of the world had been laid upon Christ, and He carried our guilt and shame.  When He rose from the dead, the stone was rolled away from the opening of the tomb.  This reminded me Jesus has rolled away the reproach of sin and shame for all who repent and are born again through trust in Him.  We must be regenerated according to the new covenant in Jesus' blood before we can have our shame rolled away, be at peace with God, and walk in the victory He delights to give us.  In one sense Calvary is our Gilgal, for Jesus has rolled away our reproach and made us righteous in His sight.  Glory to God!

Why Are You Anxious?

Are you a person who defines yourself as a worrier?  Anxiety is something everyone battles or succumbs to in varying degrees, and through Jesus Christ we can conquer it.  I don't know anyone who enjoys being anxious, but I know many people who are.  Worrying is so common in many people's lives they do not even recognise when they are carried away by worries like driftwood in floodwater.  When we follow the "what if" road to the final destination we discover it is a circuit that only leads to more worry without an end in sight.  Recognising our tendency to worry is a key step to seeking the deliverance we need by the grace of God.

Jesus commanded His disciples not to worry.  He said in Luke 12:24-30:  "Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds? ²⁵ And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? ²⁶ If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? ²⁷ Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ²⁸ If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith? ²⁹ And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. ³⁰ For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things."  Instead of worrying about circumstances, stuff, or the future, the eyes of a child of God are to be fixed on Him with expectancy, realising He knows our needs and is able to supply them.  In Sydney there is abundant wildlife, and God daily provides for the many beautiful birds that roost here.  Worrying or considering every possibility does not provide the power to address my problem.  Jesus asked, "If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest?"

Having one bird as a pet requires a fair bit of planning, resources, and care, yet God is able to supply the needs of all.  A child does not grow by worrying, and flowers do not bloom by working at it.  If we will answer Christ's question honestly, we worry because we really do not trust Him.  We cannot see how God could redeem a situation, so we wonder if He will.  In our desperation to see our needs supplied worry blinds us to God's past provision and promise to provide presently.  Instead of seeking what to eat or drink, we are to seek God and His righteousness (Luke 12:31).  The greatest need we have in this life is to trust God and repent of our sin, and this includes worry.  We typically justify our anxious minds because no one seems to realise the gravity of our situation as we do; our situation feels like an sensible exception to the command of Philippians 4:6-7:  "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

The things we worry about are the things we ought to pray to God about - with thanksgiving!  We often do not know the peace of God because we have not met His conditions to seek God and make our requests known to Him.  When we choose to thank God in any circumstance without an anxious mind, it reveals we actually are walking in faith.  Then the peace of God will guard us from all worries, fears, and cares of this world which try to worm their way into our minds and hearts.  Praise the LORD this peace does not depend on my resolve or ability, but through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us.  We cannot help worrying, but God will help those who ask Him believing and thanking Him no matter what.

Selfie Worship

Do you remember the old days of taking pictures and having to wait days or weeks before knowing how they turned out because actual film was being developed?  These days the majority of time spent taking photos is the review process.  Everyone has a chance to review the shot and personally approve their appearance!  With the advent of digital technology and the mobile phone, "selfies" have become mainstream.  I read somewhere on average it takes about five tries to have a selfie worthy of posting to social media.  As the name "selfie" suggests, it is one of many ways we can employ to make ourselves the centre of attention.  We have matured beyond the little child who shouts at his mum, "Look at me!" but there is an undeniable urge to promote self which remains in us to this day.

One thing I find quite irksome is when I am at a worship gathering (typically a well-attended pastor's conference), and it isn't long before I see people in front of me raising their hands.  These are not hands raised in praise of God, but these hands hold mobile devices to capture the moment with the perfect panorama.  My mind screams in these moments, "This is about God!  This is not about us!"    Now I understand the rationale people might use to justify taking a quick snap, and there is nothing inherently sinful about taking a picture in church - even during worship.  But my question simply is, "Why are you taking a picture?"  Is it to impress others?  It is to post to social media to show where you are?  Is it a keepsake?  Is it because a notable worship musician is on the stage?  Why does the congregation or the band or the venue prompt you to take the picture?"  If' God isn't the reason, there is a problem.  And I think He knows perfectly what a gathering of believers looks like.

Have you ever been to a beautiful location where a picture or video cannot do it justice?  The vibrant colours and grandeur cannot translate fully to film or an SD card.  If if is impossible to capture a nature scene of the beautiful things God has made, how can you hope to convey the glorious assembly of God's people filled with the Holy Spirit pouring out their hearts in praise to Him in one accord?  Well, everyone might be if they weren't taking and reviewing so many pictures.  Better than a picture to memorialise the occasion, how about turning your focus to God alone so the crowd and the voices fade away as you approach God's throne in humble praise?  There will be no mobile phones in heaven, no recordings of worship music, and no digital mixing or amplification.  They will be completely unnecessary, for we will praise God in real time with all the heavenly hosts.  I exhort you brothers and sisters for the sake of God's glory, consider leaving your device in your pocket during the service - or at home!  As we gather in the name of Jesus and praise Him, there is no room for selfies because it is all about Him.