Selective Hearing (and Believing!)

When the children of Israel reached the border of the land God promised to give them, they sent 12 men into the land for 40 days as spies.  They brought back fruit from the land a report that the region truly flowed with milk and honey as God had said.  But 10 of the spies brought back a damning report and asserted they were unable to enter the land because of the inhabitants.  They said in Numbers 13:28-29, "Nevertheless the people who dwell in the land are strong; the cities are fortified and very large; moreover we saw the descendants of Anak there. ²⁹ The Amalekites dwell in the land of the South; the Hittites, the Jebusites, and the Amorites dwell in the mountains; and the Canaanites dwell by the sea and along the banks of the Jordan."  Though God brought the children out of Egypt and through the Red Sea with signs, wonders, and a mighty hand, they faltered at the sight of those who dwelt in the land God promised.

It seems the spies and people who mourned the bad report assumed the land would be gifted to them without needing to exercise a degree of faith in God!  Their hysterical grief and refusal to trust God after being "tricked" to leave Egypt "because there weren't enough graves there for them" suggests they did not listen to the promise God had given them.  Notice the repetition of God's word to Moses, and how He mentioned again and again the many inhabitants of the land He would give them:

• Exodus 3:8:  "So I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Perizzites and the Hivites and the Jebusites."
• Exodus 3:17:  "...and I have said I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt to the land of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Perizzites and the Hivites and the Jebusites, to a land flowing with milk and honey."
• Later after instituting the Passover, God said in Exodus 13:5, "And it shall be, when the LORD brings you into the land of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Hivites and the Jebusites, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, that you shall keep this service in this month."

Overall the Israelites were pleased to be free from bondage in Egypt, but they faltered when they discovered there were strong fortifications and mighty people in the land.  They had joyfully travelled to the promised land thinking of milk, honey, and fruit but forgot what God had promised:  there were many people in the land and the almighty God swore to bring them in.  This selective hearing and believing bears a resemblance to us at times, doesn't it?  We might come to Jesus desiring peace and rest, and when there is tribulation and trials we wonder how such things could befall a child of God!  Jesus promised in this world we will have tribulation but to be of good cheer because He has overcome.  Peter later wrote to Christians in 1 Peter 4:12-13, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; ¹³ but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."

God does not trick us with disclaimers and caveats in fine print, but He will allow circumstances to unfold which test our faith in ways we did not expect.  The problem begins for us when we do not heed God's Word and when we refuse to trust Him, looking to ourselves rather than Him.  Our flesh rebels against a life of faith, justifying we are right to mourn because of the giants in the land:  we didn't sign up for this!  But Caleb and Joshua maintained the correct and godly perspective, that their enemies would be as bread easily consumed.  Have you ever been intimidated by a loaf of bread?  I haven't.  Sliced bread makes a great sandwich and when it grows mould it is easily chucked in the bin.  In Sydney we have to take special precautions with our bread because of the heat and humidity and without special care will go mouldy in days!

Let's be those who trust God and heed His Word.  When our expectations are dashed because of our selective hearing or believing, let's choose to look to God who is greater than any giant, can level any stronghold, and will keep His promises without fail.

Kept Night and Day

"In that day sing to her, "A vineyard of red wine! ³ I, the LORD, keep it, I water it every moment; lest any hurt it, I keep it night and day."

Isaiah 27:2-3

Many times in the Old Testament the nation Israel is compared to a vineyard.  The day spoken of here is after Jesus defeats Satan and establishes His throne over all.  God chose Israel as His inheritance, and His eyes are always upon His people for good.  He caused the nation of Israel to flourish, and even now offers Living Water to all who come to Him and drink.

When a vineyard was planted, the wine dresser took many steps to ensure it was fenced, guarded, irrigated, and carefully pruned to be more fruitful.  There are many varieties of grapes which produce wine, and in this passage Israel is compared to a vineyard which would produce red wine.  Night and day God remains vigilant to protect and provide for the needs of His people.  Under the New Covenant ushered in through the shed blood of Jesus, He has purchased other sheep (Gentiles) who are adopted into the family of God by the Gospel of grace.  But His eyes are on Israel still, and will not disinherit them.

As I read this text this morning, it reminded me of Naboth who treasured his own inheritance provided by God, land passed down through generations.  King Ahab desired the vineyard of Naboth because it was close to his residence and wanted it for a garden of herbs.  He offered a better vineyard in return or the agreed cash value.  Naboth's response could not have been more clear in 1 Kings 21:3:  "But Naboth said to Ahab, "The LORD forbid that I should give the inheritance of my fathers to you!"  Naboth refused to sell the inheritance he treasured, and God will not part with Israel His vineyard either.

King Ahab ended up with the vineyard through his wicked and crafty wife Jezebel.  She organised false witnesses to claim Naboth blasphemed against God and the king - interestingly the same false accusations levelled against Jesus!  Naboth was stoned for his vineyard, and Jesus was crucified for the sins of the world.  After the death of Naboth the prophet Elijah was sent by God to prophesy against Ahab as he took possession of the vineyard - and Jezebel too.  God has prophesied death and destruction upon Satan for his crimes:  the anti-Christ and Satan that old serpent will one day be utterly destroyed for their wickedness.

How good God is to His people, to willingly die so we might live!  The LORD keeps His vineyard, and He keeps followers of Jesus night and day.  By faith we are grafted into the Vine who is Jesus.  1 Peter 1:3-5 says, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴ to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, ⁵ who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."  Our hope is a living hope in Christ and we are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation.  Night and day we are safe in His hands for all who are in Christ are His chosen inheritance.

Redemption for Every Affliction

"Come to the foot of Calvary, 'cause there is redemption for every affliction here at the foot of Calvary."

Rescuer, by Rend Collective

Songs written to worship God are a great benefit to believers.  Whilst songs should never be our source of biblical doctrine, they often contain truth upon which to meditate and proclaim.  How good it is for our minds to be drawn to consider the greatness of our God and the power of the Gospel.

Some people imagine they must labour to be accepted by God and saved.  Some make pilgrimages to distant lands to visit holy sites, and others seek the counsel of gurus and shamans desiring to be healed.  The Gospel transcends this world because all freely offered by God's grace is eternal.  There is no holy mount to ascend, no temple to visit, or a sacrifice to give to receive salvation, healing, and redemption:  these are received by faith in Jesus Christ, the "Good LORD" the song speaks of.

Since God has redeemed us from the curse for the blessings of God forever, it follows every affliction (and what we perceive to be good) are also redeemed by Jesus.  When we receive the Gospel by faith, we are born again by the Holy Spirit spoken of in Romans 8:26-28, "Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. ²⁷ Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. ²⁸ And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."  God has redeemed us, and though we cannot know how God will redeem our afflictions the example of Jesus shows He can.  He has divine purpose even in afflictions.

"Everything happens for a reason," people say, but this cliche falls woefully short of the reality:  what man intends for evil, God can use for good (Genesis 5:20).  God allows people to be afflicted so they might see their need for Him.  Being afflicted is not attractive, but it is profitable as orchestrated by God.  Psalm 119:71 says, "It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes."  Affliction for sins can even lead to redemption of our souls.  Webster describes "redemption" like this:  "the purchase of God's favour by the death and sufferings of Christ; the ransom or deliverance of sinners from the bondage of sin and the penalties of God's violated law by the atonement of Christ."  Affliction has a way of strengthening faith times of ease cannot.

The redemption of the Gospel does not promise the end of our current struggles, temptations, or weakness, but that we have been redeemed by God's grace.  Redeeming does not mean alleviating but leveraging even painful experiences for God's good, eternal purposes.  Knowing our God and what Jesus has accomplished through His suffering on Calvary helps place our light affliction in perspective.  Praise the LORD He is a Redeemer, and in Jesus Christ we are most blessed.

You Are Salt and Light

At the Refresh Conference in Secret Harbour WA, pastor John Spencer made a good observation from the Sermon on the Mount.  He read the words of Jesus spoken to His disciples in Matthew 5:13-15:  "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. ¹⁴ You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house."

During a talk pastor John mentioned he previously heard this passage preached to urge people to make an effort to be salt and light.  He pointed out Jesus did not teach this as an ideal to strive for, but the reality of our identity because of our faith in Jesus Christ:  we are the salt of the earth; we are the light of the world.  No one can earn status as salt or light because of the efforts of their flesh, just like we cannot call God our Father unless we are born again through faith in Jesus.  Because we are the salt of the earth and light of the world we are to recognise this as aspects of our God-given identity and embrace it.

God has created us to be salt and light to have a profound impact on people and this world as Jesus lives His life through us.  Salt is flavourful, and light exposes what is in darkness.  If salt is to impart flavour to foods, it must be mixed in.  Jesus mixed in with the people and spoke the truth of God's Word faithfully.  He did not alter the flavour of God's Word because some people would dislike what it said.  Jesus continued concerning light in verse Matthew 5:16:  "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."  Just as a lamp was placed in an elevated position to give light to an entire room, so we are to hold God's Word in high esteem.  We do good works - not so we might be seen or recognised by men - but because God has prepared them for us to enter into.  When we do good works as unto the LORD, God will receive the glory even if we are forgotten.  He has seen it, and that is what counts.

Jesus told the disciples they were salt and light so they could be intentional in fulfilling the purposes God intended for them.  We are only salt and light by the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, so our reliance must remain upon God to live up to our high calling.  It was the mistake of the Galatians to be born again by faith in Jesus through the Holy Spirit and then try to earn God's favour through working, and we can also mistakenly think it depends upon us to work to become salt and light by our efforts.  Knowing who God is and what He has called us to be instructs us how He has called us to His good purposes, and teachings in the Sermon of the Mount is a great picture of what salt and light looks like:  "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

God's Word Tries Us

God's ways are higher than ours, and His ways are far better too.  God has plans and purposes He is faithful to fulfil, redeeming things meant for evil for good.  What we perceive as setbacks and obstacles God makes most fruitful as He brings us to His desired end.

The life of Joseph provides a great example of this.  In his youth God gave him two dreams recorded in scripture whose interpretations were understood:  God would elevate Joseph to a position above that of his father, mother, and brothers though the eleventh of twelve sons.  His brothers hated him and cast him into a pit, he was sold as a slave in Egypt, falsely accused of sexual assault, and then thrown into prison where he remained for years.  All his life seemed caught in a downward trajectory.  Yet in his trials Joseph continued to look beyond his circumstances in fear of the God who ordained them.  Far removed from family and the familiar, Joseph trusted God.

Psalm 105:16-19 gives insight into God's providential plan:  "Moreover He called for a famine in the land; He destroyed all the provision of bread. ¹⁷ He sent a man before them-- Joseph--who was sold as a slave. ¹⁸ They hurt his feet with fetters, he was laid in irons. ¹⁹ Until the time that his word came to pass, the word of the LORD tested him."  Verse 17 says God sent a man before Israel and his children.  His brothers desired to murder Joseph, but God prevented this and had him sold as a slave.  He was purchased by slave traders, made a slave in Potiphar's house, then laid in irons.  From the age of 17 until he was 30 years old, Joseph was deprived of all freedoms he once enjoyed.  All the while the dreams he had as a teen were in the back of his mind, reminding him of what God had said.  Until God fulfilled His word, the seeming disconnect between God's promise to him and his situation tested him:  would Joseph give room to despair, or would his faith remain in God alone?

There are many ways God uses to test and refine our character, and a couple of means often employed are painful trials and the passage of time.  Will we trust God in the midst of pain and uncertainty?  As the days and decades fly by will we continue to cling to the promise of God which seems impossible?  God brought Joseph from the pit to the palace in His time.  The lessons Joseph learned as a slave served him well as a ruler, and God granted him wisdom and discernment to prosper in seasons of abundance and famine.  No matter the circumstances, God remained sovereign and worthy of reliance.  Joseph needed refinement before God's plans would be fulfilled, and it is true for us as well.

What seemingly impossible promise has God made to you?  There will be temptations to doubt and to speed along the process by leaning on our own understanding, by doing what seems best to us.  Refuse this temptation, to take matters into your own hands.  The truth of God's word which seems to contradict reality works to refine us in preparation for the fulfilment.  Trust the word of the LORD, that the doors Jesus opens none can shut, and the doors Jesus shuts none can open.  It is only in His strength we can walk through the door, and He will accomplish His plans concerning us today and always.

Love's Lasting Impact

A couple years ago I was sitting on a lounge reading a book by Isobel Kuhn, a missionary whose story has always touched my heart.  It was in the midst of a tough season, and it was refreshing to read of God's faithfulness to His people and the power of the Gospel.  As I sat reading, a little girl walked up smiling and offered me a yellow piece of paper.  "What's this?" I asked.  "It's a love-heart," she replied.  I thanked her and tucked it into my Bible where it has remained to this day.

It was a touching gesture, a wonderful reminder of the love of God through His little ones.  It illustrates to me how simple yet profound love is and the great impact it has upon our hearts and minds.  God's love is pure and enduring, gracious and full of compassion.  I had not said or done anything worthy of the attention of the little girl, but she freely gave me a symbol of love which to me ministered God's love I will not forget.

Perhaps you wonder how you can possibly share God's love with others.  This gift illustrates the simplicity of doing just that.  The love-heart I received is made from a simple folded slip of paper.  This is what it looks like unfolded:

There's nothing special about this slip of yellow paper in itself, but after being intentionally folded and trimmed it conveyed a message of love.  If a scrap of paper without words can express love, how much more can our words, use of time, and genuine interest share God's love with others.  Love is costly, but it does not require expensive gifts to convey it.  What a treasure God's love is, and may we be used by God to remind others of it often in simple ways.

Divine Sifting

"And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.  ³² But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren."

Luke 22:31-32

Last night at the Refresh Conference at Calvary Chapel Secret Harbour a message was preached on this passage by pastor John Spencer.  I enjoyed and appreciated the insights he provided, and since hearing it have continued to meditate on implications of the passage in relation to what is commonly called "spiritual warfare."

The context of the passage is the disciples had been arguing about who was the greatest among them.  Peter was an assertive and vocal guy, and it would not surprise me at all if he had just trotted out his opinions about why it could (or should be) him.  The ironic thing is it does not seem Jesus Christ was in the running!  Anyway, Jesus singled Simon Peter out and revealed Satan had asked for him to "sift" him as wheat.  Instead of rebuking Satan for such a bold request, Jesus had already prayed that Peter's faith should not fail.

When something bad happens to people or their plans are foiled, it is not uncommon for people to wonder if they are facing a spiritual attack of Satan.  Pastor John made a great point in his message that Satan's aim was very specific:  to cause Peter's faith in God to falter and fail.  Scripture affirms this is a tactic of the enemy, to attempt to undermine our faith.  He cannot destroy God and hinder him at all, but he can effectively hinder and destroy people who do not trust in God.

It is good for us to recognise God is very active in spiritual warfare.  It is a war God fights and has won.  Today the term "spiritual warfare" is a loaded one, and when it is mentioned the context is most commonly in light of 1) Satan attacking us and 2) what we can do to resist him.  Little or nothing is often said concerning God's role in this warfare.  I believe He is by far the greatest player in this conflict.  There is nothing Satan can do (or we can do for that matter!) without the permission and power of God.  Think about how many times God was directly involved in what we would call a "spiritual attack."  He sent a wicked spirit to trouble King Saul, sent a lying spirit to speak through Ahab's false prophets, and gave Satan permission to vex Job.  The Father allowed Jesus to be tempted by the devil, and a messenger of Satan was permitted to buffet Paul often.  There are many other examples of God in scripture employing good and malevolent spiritual beings to accomplish His glorious purposes.

Satan was permitted to sift Simon because God knew that is exactly what Simon Peter needed.  God incredibly utilised Peter's sifting to purify him, even as threshing separates grain from the worthless husk.  Today people would have rebuked Satan, assuming his "attack" must be outside the will of God or beyond redemption.  But Jesus did not rebuke Satan:  He prayed for Simon.  Guess what?  God heard the prayer of Jesus and answered in the affirmative.  Peter was absolutely shattered by his own denial of Jesus:  his pride, arrogance, and unbelief was broken in pieces and swept away in repentance.  He was able to draw near to Jesus in humility once again and be useful for the LORD's glory.

Peter was self-absorbed and self-confident, believing he was great in God's kingdom.  It was not until he was sifted he was in a posture to return to Jesus and be used by Him to strengthen the brethren.  I bet Peter in his future ministry often dealt with people who denied they even knew Jesus when persecution was intense and prolonged - just like he denied Jesus.  His own failure provided compassion and grace for others Peter at one point didn't believe he needed.  Instead of rebuking real or imagine satanic attacks, how good it is for us to know Jesus has prayed for us even before an attack comes, drawing near to Jesus Christ in divinely ordained seasons of sifting with humility, relying upon Him for strength, trusting nothing can separate us from the love of God.  Warfare isn't about our power to fight or resist, but Jesus Christ in us.  If He says sifting is what we need, He will enable us to endure by His grace.

Our Need to Know

Since I was young, it was a practice in my household to pray together as a family before bed.  Many of our prayers, though extempore, tended to be very similar day to day.  After a while I could almost predict what others would pray!  So I made it a point to try to switch up the words I would say, even if the subject matter remained the same.

I have been impacted during my recent study of Ephesians by the things Paul prayed for the Ephesian believers.  Most of my prayers in my youth and in adulthood tended to deal with temporary subjects:  giving thanks, asking for help for a problem, or interceding on behalf of others.  The focus of Paul's prayer revealed a priority on spiritual blessings which are enduring and essential.  When Paul prayed for the Ephesians he did not pray the way I would if I knew people were being persecuted, under threat of violence, and in need of support.

This is a portion of what Paul prayed in  Ephesians 1:15-19:  "Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, ¹⁶ do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: ¹⁷ that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, ¹⁸ the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, ¹⁹ and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power..."

See the things Paul prayed for!  After giving thanks for the Ephesians, he asked God they would be given the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, having their understanding enlightened, that they would know what is the hope of his calling, the riches of His inheritance, and the exceeding greatness of His power towards believers.  When you pray for others, does this resemble your prayers for them at all?  For me not so much.  But God-willing my prayers shall continue to develop to reflect absolute faith in God's power and sovereignty, increased knowledge of God, and great value of enduring spiritual blessings given us through Christ.  There are things that are important we know, even as it is important for God to do.  Once we better know the things Paul prayed for, I believe it will change how and what we pray.

Living in Light of Reality

What we believe and what we say we believe can be two different things.  We say we trust God, but the worry and fear we struggle with says we don't - at least not as much as we say we do.  We say we believe God's divine Word, yet we do not always obey it or seek guidance from it.  We ask for God to intervene and "do" something, ignoring the fact He is working through that situation to accomplish plans we know nothing about.  We are a funny bunch who desperately need Jesus to open our eyes and provide understanding of God's Word so we might know Him.

The disciples of Jesus mourned His death on Calvary.  They had believed He was the promised Messiah, but His death was an unexpected and shocking end to the dream Jesus would someday sit on a throne.  From our vantage point with the benefit of the historical account we might smirk at the women finding the tomb empty, the apostles not believing their testimony, or the morose disciples trudging 7 miles to Emmaus.  Ah, ye of little faith - coupled with ignorance of the Law, prophets, and Psalms we might say to ourselves.  But are we any wiser, stronger, or spiritually savvy?  Nope.

In Luke 24 there is an insightful portrayal of the disciples sadly walking to Emmaus mourning their deceased sovereign when He met them in the flesh on the road.  They didn't even realise it was Jesus with whom they conversed.  It was only as they ate a meal together the veil of ignorance was peeled away in Luke 24:30-31:  "Now it came to pass, as He sat at the table with them, that He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. ³¹ Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight."  Their eyes were open during the whole walk and as they conversed and ate with one another:  it took Jesus opening their eyes so they were enabled to recognise and know Him.

Praise the LORD Jesus opens the eyes of the blind - and the eyes of ignorant, senseless, and unbelieving believers as well.  He opens our eyes, not just so we can rattle off facts, but so we might know Him.  After their eyes were opened the disciples rushed 7 miles back to Jerusalem to share the awesome news and confirm the resurrection of Christ Jesus.  This moves to a second purpose of their eyes being opened:  that they might know Him and make Him known to others.  Too often we can limit the context of sharing Christ to people who are unbelievers, but believers need a revelation of Jesus as well.  Suddenly Jesus stood in the midst of the amazed believers in Jerusalem, and they could hardly believe for joy.

May God open our eyes so we might know Him and make Him known.  Then we will live in light of the reality of His life and the power of His resurrection.

The Silent Times

It struck me yesterday how on several occasions Jesus remained silent when addressed.  Ignoring people seems impolite, but as the supreme God Jesus was never under any obligation to speak - especially to those who did not believe He was the Son of God and refused to trust Him.  If they would not listen or believe the words He spoke, why bother?  Many times Jesus spoke truth to people who did not heed Him because He is gracious, but His unexpected silences have me thinking.

I do not assume I know exactly why Jesus remained silent, but the Bible relates many times when He was.  When the woman caught in adultery was brought to Him by the scribes and Pharisees, He stooped and wrote on the ground as if He did not hear.  When questioned by Pilate, Jesus was rebuked for not answering the one who had "power" to release him.  He was also brought before King Herod who was keen to see Jesus, and hoped to see a miracle done by Him.  Luke 23:9 says, "Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing."  All these interactions were attempts to put Jesus on the spot by people who refused to follow Jesus, minds which were stubbornly opposed to faith in Christ.

We are blessed to have the testimony of the Bible, for there is much recorded of the things Jesus said and did.  He said to His disciples in Matthew 7:6, "Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces."  Dogs and pigs are not capable of sanctifying what is holy or treasuring valuable items.  It is not in the nature of animals to discern and appreciate such things, and both dogs and swine were unclean for eating under the Law.  Jesus warned against entrusting holy things to unholy people, and all it would do is agitate them.  Jesus set a good example by following His own commands.

Sometimes in our Christian walks there can be periods of silence, times where the LORD seems strangely quiet.  King Saul found the LORD did not answer Him because he had disobeyed God without repentance and sought honour for himself.  I believe Christians also can have seasons of the "silent treatment," so to speak, times when God withholds clear directives because we are acting similar to the Pharisees, Pilate, and Herod:  we are not trusting in Jesus, are testing Him, believe we are in control, and we want to see a miracle.  We are the ones who can resemble snarling dogs and wallowing pigs and in an unrepentant, fleshly state incapable of responding to the wisdom of God honourably and obediently.  Praise the LORD He is gracious to speak and when we repent, obey, and look to Jesus in faith we find ourselves hearing Him speak:  "Well done, good and faithful servant.  Follow me!"

We Have Opportunities

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. ¹⁰ Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."

Galatians 6:9-10

The farmer sows seed knowing the process of planting, growing, tending, and harvesting crops will take time.  Walking in obedience to God doesn't always bring the tangible results or changes we hope for, and we can wonder if our efforts could be better spent.  Paul exhorted the believers in Galatia to persevere through seasons when there doesn't seem to be much growth or fruitfulness, trusting God will make us fruitful according to His plans and purposes.  He said, "As you have opportunity, let us do go to all."

The Greek word translated "opportunity" is most often translated "time" (64 times) and "season" (13 times), and when I think of opportunities I think of chances - often which can be unplanned.  A few months ago I had the opportunity to go to a Grand Final match, but because of the late notice I was unable to attend.  I could have attended, but it would have negatively impacted other plans I had made.  Opportunities can be inconvenient, involve a degree of risk, and seem to impose themselves upon us.  We all have opportunity to do good as long as we remain on this planet, for God has provide time to invest in loving and serving others.  It is good for us to be prepared for opportunities by determining to seize them when they arise, even when inconvenient or unexpected.

We are not at the mercy of others or the overwhelming amount of needs in the world, for we look to Jesus for strength and guidance.  It is true our resources and time are limited, but it is good for us to be willing to give of our time to seek the LORD and bless others - even when there is no promise of reward, compensation, or recognition.  Let us do good to all as unto the LORD, knowing He will cause us to reap in due time.  Those who are of the "household of faith" are to receive special care from us, for we are part of the same Body of Christ, the church.  Jesus was willing to enter the constraints of time and a human body and did good to all, and He is our glorious example.

Jesus our Sanctuary

"Though they join forces, the wicked will not go unpunished; but the posterity of the righteous will be delivered."

Proverbs 11:21

The world is filled with uncertainties and realities which can fill us with debilitating fear.  Countless conspiracies (imagined or genuine) increase concerns and cynical views of everything.  People live in fear of governments, of schemes to disseminate "alternate facts" by media outlets, hidden agendas, secret plans to cull populations, and the collusion of individuals to gain money, power, and control.  Just like music, news reporting, and sport, conspiracy is big business which preys on the alleged ignorance of people to deliver the real truth and secret agendas behind the scenes.  For unbelievers who have no authority in their lives greater than themselves, government, armies, and are at the mercy of this world and the systems imposed upon them, there is cause for alarm given the state of things today.  But one who fears God ought to not be unsettled by a thing.

I am admittedly cynical about most every "conspiracy theory" I have ever heard, and this murky pit of intrigue has drowned many willing victims who clamour for more.  Conspiracies are nothing new and remain as unsatisfactory as ever.  Should a confederacy or conspiracy prove true, what can a person do about it beyond knowledge and attempts to convince others about this plot you can do nothing to stop?  Or you can live in constant fear - and that is what happened to the inhabitants of Jerusalem in the days of Isaiah.  The Assyrian war machine was mowing down nations, and word came to Jerusalem they did not stand a chance against them because there was a confederacy - the Assyrians and others - plotted against them.  The people were troubled because of this conspiracy, but God directed Isaiah to address the people.

Isaiah 8:12-14 says, "Do not say, 'A conspiracy,' Concerning all that this people call a conspiracy, nor be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled. ¹³ The LORD of hosts, Him you shall hallow; let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. ¹⁴ He will be as a sanctuary, but a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, as a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem."  How amazing is this!  What people called "a conspiracy" was known by God and was no cause for fear.  Instead of God commanding the people to spread the word of the so-called conspiracy, they were to fear God above all and heed Him.  God was as a sanctuary, a place of safety and refuge for His people in a world filled with deceit, hatred, murder, and schemes.  To God's people He is a Saviour and Deliverer, but to all who opposed God and His people He would cause them to stumble and be trapped.  People joined forces against God's people, but the schemers would be the victims of the their own plot!

In hindsight since Jesus Christ has come, we know He is this "stone of stumbling and a rock of offence."  He is the One whom we ought to fear, not the schemes of Satan or men.  Looking forward scripture reveals one day all the nations of the earth will be deceived by Satan to come against Jesus Christ as He is enthroned with His saints in Jerusalem.  The conspiracy to overthrow Him will be strong, but Jesus will destroy them all simply with the words of His mouth.  Isn't God greater than man?  Aren't His plans sovereign and good?  Can Satan and all the demons together overthrow what God has ordained?  Is God threatened by the nations of the earth, or is He unsettled and fearful of the governments and how they conspire against His people?  Please.  Not a chance.

In our Saviour Jesus Christ we have a place of refuge, and when we sanctify Him in our hearts and look to Him in reliance we will not be afraid or unsettled.  Should adopted children of the King waste effort in unbelief, lamenting "cover ups" or boasting over hidden truth which has nothing to do with Jesus Christ who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life?  This world is in a hopeless state, yet followers of Jesus who are in the world are not of the world.  We are not at the mercy of this world or our enemies; we will not go as the world goes and can lead others to THE Truth, Jesus Christ received through faith.  May the LORD be our fear and dread, not schemes or plots of men.  He has promised those deemed righteous by faith and their posterity will be delivered.  Praise God who can keep such promises.  Is there any greater than our God?

Grace Isn't Fair

From a young age in varying degrees we all have a sense of what is right, wrong, and fair.  It is this third parameter which we can hold in greatest esteem.  We may break the rules or even the law because we believe it is unfair.  People who have uttered the words, "Life isn't fair!" in response to someone saying "That isn't fair" still have a sense of fairness they appeal to when it suits them.

I love how God's grace trumps "fair" every time.  There is a parable Jesus told where the people in it protested against the king's wisdom and generosity.  In Luke 19, Jesus spoke of a man who gave an equal amount of money (a mina) to 10 of his servants (sounds fair).  After being crowned king, he returned and interviewed each of his servants concerning how successful they had been in conducting business.  One man had gained 10 minas with only one to start, and another man gained five.  There was one servant, however, who had buried the mina in the ground and said, "Here is your money."

The king chastised his wicked servant for being so foolish, for he should had kept the money in the bank and at least generated interest.  Luke 19:24-25 says, "And he said to those who stood by, 'Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has ten minas.' ²⁵ (But they said to him, 'Master, he has ten minas.')"  Those who stood by questioned the king's decision, as it didn't seem fair to give the mina to the man who had the most.  But if you were master, who would you want investing your money?  The one who buried it in the ground, the one who gained 5, or the one who gained 10?  The one who gained 10, of course!  The master knew exactly what he was giving and why he was giving it to his good and faithful servant.  He was gracious to give a mina to a servant he knew was wicked.

Then Jesus delivered the parable's punchline for our application in Luke 19:26:  "For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him."  This may not seem fair, but it is righteous and gracious for God to reward His faithful servants.  The lives of unbelievers and all they acquire will be lost forever, but it is God's good pleasure to give believers eternal life and the kingdom (Luke 12:32).  This isn't fair by any means, of course, but all of grace.  What a privilege and responsibility we have in serving our King!

Aligned with Christ

This week I have started a little building project at church, framing a wall to create space for storage.  More than additional storage, this wall will allow us to centre the video display and better utilise the area up front.  Already the project has resulted in long days and countless trips to the local shops for materials and tools.  One of my purchases was a new spirit level.

For years - probably about 15 years or so - for building I have been using a 4' level given to me by my dad.  Some of the bubbles were obviously inaccurate, but a couple of them were still functional.  As I was framing, I struggled mightily to determine what bubble was the accurate one!  When held vertically, there are bubbles at the top and bottom which indicate if studs are plumb.  It was obviously time for a new level, and after checking my work I re-positioned several studs which were out of plumb because of my faulty level.

It was a guessing game with a single bubble as a guide, but two makes a huge difference.  This is an illustration of the importance of Christian fellowship and accountability.  In my opinion (which matters little) "accountability" is a word I seldom use because it is a bit of a broken buzzword and vague.  Like two bubbles are much more accurate than one alone, so Christians experiencing genuine fellowship help each other remain aligned with Jesus, the Vine in whom we are to abide.  A spirit level needs to be carefully calibrated, and Jesus is always righteous and His Word is always true.  He is the standard by whom we walk uprightly, and we can help one another to do what is right.

Our eyes are not a good guide for building, and our hearts, feelings, and even our own rationale is not sufficient to determine right from wrong.  Praise the LORD for the indwelling Holy Spirit who guides us into all truth and helps us to follow Jesus faithfully.  Is it we who need re-adjustment and re-alignment, and we can support one another in the process.

Trust God, Not Self

The Bible is filled with divine revelations which instruct us concerning God and people as well.  God and sinful men have something in common, that we are totally consistent.  God and His immutable righteousness is established and unchanging, and so is the folly of man and his ways.  Even as plant varieties grow well in particular conditions and species of animals have instincts and behaviours which are predictable, so it is with the natural man to trust himself.

The introduction to a parable Jesus told reveals an consistent connection amongst people we should take note of.  Luke 18:9 says, "Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others..."  He went on to talk about a Pharisee who prayed with himself and a tax collector who did not feel worthy to even look to heaven because of his sin.  I expect the people were shocked when Jesus confirmed it was the humble sinner and not the Pharisee who went home justified.  Jesus spoke this parable to people who trusted in their own righteousness and consequently hated others.

Just today I was reminded of an interaction I had with a fellow Christian years ago who believed it was an ethical imperative to only buy clothing and shoes which he deemed "ethically sourced."  He seemed to pride himself on paying a premium for materials and he knitted his own clothing to ensure his high standards were met.  He believed his purchasing decisions were an extension of his faith in Christ, and he spoke disparagingly of Christians who did not share his strong convictions.  In that conversation the connection between self-righteousness and thinking poorly of others who did not measure up to his ethical standard was on display.

A more personal example to illustrate the truth of scripture is in my own life.  I was once mired in a self-righteous mindset and also looked down on others with disdain.  I was disgusted with the hypocrisy in others I was keenly enabled to see because it was also true of me.  I was the one straining out a gnat and swallowing camels!  Paul wrote in Romans 2:1, "Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things."  Praise the LORD God showed grace, love, compassion, and mercy on me when I was unwilling to do the same for others.  When we realise our own righteousness is a liability and our righteousness comes only by faith in Jesus Christ by His grace, it opens up an avenue of love through us which never existed before. 

Crossing the Divide

No matter how many times I have read or analysed passages in the Bible, God uses it to powerfully speak and provide fresh insights.  Just last night as a family after dinner we read through Luke chapter 16 and I noticed something I never had before.  I love how our God speaks and reveals Himself to us by His grace.

Luke 16 concludes with Jesus speaking of a rich man and Lazarus, a poor beggar who hoped for crumbs from the rich man's table.  The rich man ate well every day, but Lazarus suffered greatly from ill health and was malnourished.  Eventually both the rich and poor man died.  Their lives had been a notable contrast whilst they lived on earth, and it was true after death:  the rich man found himself suffering in eternal torment, and Lazarus found himself greatly comforted.

Earlier in the chapter Jesus spoke a parable of a man stripped of his stewardship because he was caught wasting his master's goods.  Since he was unwilling to stoop to manual labour or begging, he shrewdly decided to call his master's debtors together and give them a break on what they owed.  The favours he generously provided would be returned by another master receiving him as steward.  Jesus said this to show how men are careful to provide for their own future on earth.  The irony is, however, men who are shrewd to acquire wealth and earthly security do not consider where their eternal souls will spend eternity.

The rich man was a man who was ill-prepared for the eternal state, having died in his sins.  The beggar Lazarus, poor though he was on earth, was wealthy beyond measure in paradise through faith in God.  The rich man, being tormented in flame, called out to Abraham to send Lazarus over with water to cool his tongue.  The man who once seemed to have everything was reduced to begging for mercy.  Luke 16:25-26 says, "But Abraham said, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. ²⁶ And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.'"

The portion which blew my mind was the explanation Abraham provided after he pointed out the obvious, that it was impossible to cross the wide gap between the place of torment and comfort in Sheol.  He said, "...those who want to pass from here to you cannot."  The words of Abraham imply there are people on the side being comforted who would desire to aid those in torment if it was at all possible.  Perhaps Lazarus would have been glad to go through the flames to do more than the begging rich man asked.  But crossing the boundary God had set was impossible.  I thought to myself:  would I want to go to those who were begging for help on the other side of the divide?  Would you?  That's what Jesus did for sinners, for He came to earth and died so we might live.

If you answer in the affirmative, don't wait until it is impossible!  Praise the LORD He has given us eyes to see and ears to hear the truth of His Word, how it is appointed for all men rich and poor once to die, and then we will be judged.  Only those who are born again by faith in Jesus Christ through the Gospel will be saved and receive eternal life.  If we will save people from the flames of hell, today is the day to bring the Living Water Jesus supplies, the Holy Spirit received through faith in Jesus.  The master told his steward he would be stripped of his position and this revelation caused him to prepare for his future in earnest:  if people are heading to hell, shouldn't someone warn them and offer the Living Water Christ supplies?

Action, not Activism

As we enter a new year, it is a good reminder how God makes all things new and provides new opportunities every day to learn, grow, serve, and live life to the full.  The life God has prepared for us is greater in scope and impact than we can imagine.  His plans that will be fulfilled are better than our dreams.

I glanced over an article this morning which touched on a subject to which I have given much thought.  The basic premise of the article was Christians tend toward being politically conservative and give little or no effort to activism because they see it as an activity employed by liberals.  Whilst this may or may not be true, it was a straw-man argument to explain why there are not more Christian political activists.  My take is I am not at all called by God to activism but to be active in loving God and others.  If love for God and people means I am to take practical actions, it is a good thing.  At the same time I realise I cannot of myself accomplish anything without the LORD's wisdom, guidance, and help.

I grew up in an era when the abortion debate reached a fever-pitch in the 80's, when protests, marches, and violence from all sides raged.  Probably since the Vietnam war there had not been such a divisive and emotionally charged issue, and at the core was evidence of completely opposing world views.  "Peaceful" demonstrations didn't stay peaceful.  At the core of the struggle was the value of rights:  the right of a "woman to choose" or the right of a foetus (or an unborn child) to live.  Even the terms used in common speech were polarising.  I watched the tactics employed by groups on the right and left side of the issue which, for a large part, employed intimidation, manipulation, violence, parades, and volume to assert their claims.  If that is activism, I want no part of it.  Activism is as much about what you hate as what you fight for.  I do not see Jesus embracing any of these tactics to achieve political or social change, for He laboured for something far more significant and enduring:  the kingdom of God.

There are evidently many people who have embraced activism for social justice or political change as an outlet for their faith, and I see no reason to speak against this.  Yet it is important to note activism always has an end.  Should you ever achieve your desire, it is on to the next great cause.  As hard as people fought to make a change they must double their efforts to sustain it.  With the stroke of a pen all that people worked for and bled over can be undone.  What Jesus did through His active love, however, no one can take away.  He did not need to make friends of the Jews or Romans to achieve His purposes, for He answered to His Father in heaven.  He did not make any sweeping legislative reforms, end poverty, or homelessness, but He did free people from the curse of the Law, provide true riches of heaven to all, and promised an eternal home to all who would trust in Him.  I am convinced Jesus was no activist following a dream, but He was active in following the Father's plan for His life as He reached out to others individually.

Let's make 2019 a year filled with meaningful and fruitful actions in obedience to God for His glory.  We may not be able to change the hearts or minds of others, but may we embrace the changes God desires to accomplish in our lives.  It is alluring to think our efforts and the greatness of a cause will change the world or make it a better place, but without God that is impossible.  The social justice trap ensnares many who march into it, but those who walk in step with Christ are free indeed.