Senses to Discern

Little children put pretty much everything that comes to hand into their mouths, and as we mature as children of God we ought to learn to discern what is spiritually healthy and good for us and what is not.  Anyone can be infected with pinworms in their intestines, but it is young children who are most susceptible because they often put contaminated food or fingers in their mouth.  Age alone does not equal spiritual maturity, for Hebrews 5:12-14 says:  "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. ¹³ For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. ¹⁴ But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."

Over time children in the ancient world were weaned from breastmilk to solid food, and it is important to point out the milk from a mother is not sterile.  From what I have read it is actually a living substance that contains all the necessary nutrients and microbes that promote the health and development of infants, strengthen their immune system and provide a healthy gut.  A time comes when the physical needs of babies and toddlers are met with solid food as they grow up.  Those who are born again by faith in Jesus are to acquire their spiritual nutrition from the word of God that is profitable for babes and those of "full age" alike.  As a baby hungers for milk from his mother or a person hard at work looks forward to a healthy lunch, so Christians are to satisfy their spiritual hunger by God's word they feed upon and put into practice.

It is important God's word provides the acceptable standard for what we will choose to receive.  Just because a book is written by a pastor or a worship song is sung by a well-known Christian artist, it does not follow it is guaranteed to be biblically sound.  As we grow older we learn to put the food we plan to eat to simple tests like how it looks, if it smells off or if there is something moving in it that should not be.  Sometimes we are not quite sure if the milk is fine or if leftovers are safe to eat, and in most cases it is good to be cautious to avoid what will make us sick or not agree with us.  Recently I bought an album by a Christian band that I have enjoyed very much, however there is a line I refuse to receive.  Just because lyrics rhyme or are catchy does not mean they are all true and accurate according to scripture.

As followers of Jesus, we must be discerning of what we read, sing or assume must be true lest we fall into error.  It is good when we recognise rotten doctrines and heresies before we drink them down, and by reason of use determine wholesome scripture interpretation in fellowship with other Christians.  Better than microbes, we have the Holy Spirit who dwells in our hearts and guides us into all truth.  He convicts of sin, of righteousness and judgment, helping us to walk in love and grace towards all.  We will never mature beyond our need for guidance, direction and wisdom from God's word, for they are the words of life that promote spiritual growth, health and fruitfulness.

Jesus Makes Things New

"Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful."

Revelation 21:5

Since we live under the constraints of time on earth, new things can only be temporarily so.  Once we receive or use a thing, it is no longer new.  The moment a "new" car is driven off the lot, it becomes "pre-owned" and typically loses thousands of dollars of value.  The smell of a new car dissipates over time, and what is new always grows old.  A new thing may become old to us before very long when it does not meet our expectations.  A new job can quickly become monotonous and dull.  A new haircut or hair colour may never look as good as it did on the first day.

Jesus says to us in Revelation 21:5 that He makes all things new.  Hebrews 10:20 tells us Jesus Christ has made a new and living way for us to approach God in relationship by what He accomplished through His atoning death on Calvary, and we can boldly draw near to Him with a clean conscience by faith in Jesus.  Our thoughts of heaven and present spiritual realities can be difficult to grasp because our perspective can be hampered by our experience on earth where things quickly grow old.  We cannot imagine something that is new that remains new.  Our excitement ought never wane over the new heavens and new earth God will fashion, the new and living way God has made for us to approach Him in holiness by faith, and concerning what 2 Corinthians 5:17 says truly:  "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."  Because we are new creations by faith in Jesus, the "same old same old" is miraculously new without ever growing old.

Just yesterday I considered the passage in Ephesians 2:14-17:  "For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, ¹⁵ having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, ¹⁶ and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. ¹⁷ And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near."  Jesus came to seek and save the lost, Jews and Gentiles alike, creating in Himself one new man from the two--joining us together as one in the Body of Christ the church.  We might see the church as an ancient institution, but the reality is the church is as new as His mercies which are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23).  The new body of believers and the new heart He has given us by His grace is a delight and not a drudgery.

This newness of life for the Christian was foreshadowed in God's promise to His people in Ezekiel 36:26-27:  "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. ²⁷ I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them."  Because we live in a body of flesh influenced by all sorts of things that are not God, it is possible for what God makes new to feel old.  This can happen when we look for satisfaction in experiences, accomplishments or acquiring things when it is found in God alone.  The remarkable thing is when we realise everything under the sun is meaningless, it draws us to God to discover the satisfaction, purpose and rest in our LORD Jesus.  Once what is passing away is put in the proper place and perspective as God's gracious gift, and we discover gratitude and joy before God in even little things.  Our God who makes us and all things new by the Gospel sanctifies a whole new way of life that is fulfilling, satisfying and delightful in His presence.

Somebody God Loves

"So it was, when they came, that he looked at Eliab and said, "Surely the LORD'S anointed is before Him." ⁷ But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."\

1 Samuel 16:6-7

When the prophet Samuel saw the eldest son of Jesse, based on his height and regal bearing he assumed Eliab was God's choice to be king over Israel.  God corrected Samuel's error of judgment, for the LORD God does not see as man does.  People can labour to carefully craft an attractive image to impress others that is not indicative of the corruption, deceit and pride tucked away in their own hearts.  Thankfully God sees the character and knows the thoughts of a person, and in His wisdom refuses those who walk in pride--even people who make the impression of being worthy of royalty.

The other day I had the opportunity to see judging by appearances play out firsthand.  I was taking care of some janitorial duties at church when a couple of women in business attire strode in to provide information about a local business with a new location in the area.  They asked if there was anyone they could speak about on the matter, and as I leaned on the mop handle I told them that would be me.  I listened to their brief spiel, received pamphlets from them, and told them my name upon request.  I must not have met their expectation of a person with an administrative and pastoral role in the fellowship, for they later sent an email to our administrator that said something like, "We dropped by today but there was no one there to speak to."  It sounds like they were a bit the prophet Samuel, for I was judged by my appearance to be a nobody.  The difference between them and Samuel is they were correct! :)

As I was judged by my appearance, I too can do the same.  Therefore I must be on my guard to not assume anything demeaning about those who venture into the church building, attend a service, in the shops or on the street.  I ought to see everyone as someone God loves and extend His love to them.  Though I do not share the office of John the Baptist as a prophet, I agree with his sentiment shared with his disciples concerning Jesus Christ:  "He must increase, but I must decrease."  I do not need to be someone of note to point people to Jesus.  But this will likely not happen if I do not say or do anything intentionally towards that end.  Disciples of Jesus are not made in isolation or silence but by joining together with others in loving fellowship by God's grace.  This requires more than "being available" but being proactive to live a life in pursuit of Jesus, encouraging and exhorting others to join with us to glorify and serve Him in obedience.

Questions we could consider in light of God's revelation to Samuel are:  when the LORD God looks upon my heart, what does He see?  Does He see someone who wants the preeminence?  Does He see someone who shies away from embracing the role He has called me to in the body of Christ?  Is there anything within us that would cause God to refuse to anoint us?  Am I someone who places more stock in our own appearance or the appearance of others that blinds us to God's perspective and insight?  Am I seeing people as God sees them or as a man sees?  Why?  The resurrected Jesus was thought by Mary at first to be the gardener, but when He said her name she saw Him for Who He was.  The Pharisees knew the disciples were unlearned Galileans, yet when they were bold in their witness for Jesus they realised they had been with Him.  Though we be nobodies in this world, by our love, words and deeds may everyone we encounter realise the Spirit of Christ is in us.

Doing Good To All

"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

Doing good to others is a mark of spiritual rebirth in those who are born again by faith in Jesus.  Our salvation or forgiveness is not earned by doing good works, but doing good to all as we have opportunity is a result of God's work in us.  Weariness can occur whether we are sowing or reaping, and Paul reminded the believers in the Galatian church doing good is always in season.

Paul directed the church to do good especially to those of the "household of faith" in Jesus.  This was not to discriminate but to be discerning.  They were to do good especially to their brethren, not exclusively.  As the LORD extended the Gospel of grace to all, so believers were to do good to all.  I suspect Paul emphasised doing good to those of the household of faith because they were or most apt to be neglected.  As opportunities arose they were to do good beyond their local fellowship, for the body of Christ is global and spans all cultures, ethnicities and Christian denominations.

One natural tendency that should not be carried into our walk with Jesus is keeping tabs of the good we have done others.  Everything good we have given we have first received from God, and thus it is for  and through Jesus by faith we do good.  If our flesh ever begrudges someone and says something like, "After all I have done for them..." this exposes our failure to walk in God's grace--to freely give as we have freely received.  This shows our deeds have been out of a sense of dutiful obligation, to gain face, to impress others, to repay good done us, or in the hope of receiving future benefits.  All we have given, the time we have invested, the effort expended, the personal sacrifices we have made ought to be done to all as if Jesus Himself is the recipient, simply returning to Him thankfully what is rightfully His.

When we fix our eyes on Jesus, we do not become so entranced we are blinded to opportunities to do good to all.  The opposite is the case!  Considering Who Jesus is and all the good He has done us, He inspires us more to do good than the prevalence of needs we can see around us.  He opens our hearts to desire to do good we never could have imagined in practical ways to our family, friends, co-workers and even our enemies.  As God leads us on this pilgrimage of life, He places opportunities on our path to do good to all--especially to those who are of the household of faith.  As the LORD has been good to us, let us do good to others by freely and gladly offering to go the first mile.  God enables us to keep on going for additional miles and learn to pay the distance we have traveled no mind, for He is with us every step.

Sharpened by the LORD

"As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend."

Proverbs 27:17

There were many kinds of iron implements that benefited from sharpening in Solomon's day.  When it comes to knives, swords and weapons of war, one thing is common between them all:  no cutting weapon or tool is sharpened in the sheath.  The cutting blade needed to be drawn and exposed before it could effectively be drawn against another to remove burs and hone the edge.  This is true concerning Christian fellowship and friendship.  There must be a willingness to expose our thoughts, concerns, delights and feelings in person with one another for the sharpening Solomon talked about to occur.

Having two swords or knives in close proximity to one another does not prevent them from rusting.  It is from the friction of the blades dragging upon the other that provides a sharper cutting edge on both of them.  One thing I love about this analogy is the iron that is sharpening iron is being handled by someone other than the swords themselves.  A sword is not capable of moving itself any more than a shovel can dig a hole or an axe can fell a tree by leaning up against it.  These tools are wielded by the worker, and all of God's people are held and utilised by Him for His good purposes.

A problem arises in Christian fellowship when we find others abrasive or difficult and take it personally--as if they are an enemy when God is able to use them wisely just as they are.  For all of our faults, blind spots, foolish assumptions, and proud imaginations, God is not in any way hindered from using us to sharpen one another.  The sharpening of our countenance--the quickening of our minds, clarifying our perspectives and refining our character--is one of God's purposes in our interactions and fellowship with believers.  Both blades benefit from the friction required to further change us by teaching us to humble ourselves, listen to others and consider others as more important than me, myself and I.

A warrior does not sharpen a sword to hang it on his wall as a trophy, nor does a woodcutter sharpen the axe to conceal it in a leather cover.  This sharpening, tiring and repetitive as it might be, is not the main job or end:  these iron implements are sharpened so the sword will perform best in combat and to fell trees in fewer strokes with less effort.  Our communication and friendship with others works to make us more effective in being godly witnesses for Jesus Christ outside the walls of the church or when we are not around our best friends.  God is doing a marvellous work as we gather with the brethren, and the work He does is our small circle prepares us for labour of greater scope and eternal consequence.  In our gathering with family in Christ (who are our true friends), let us ensure by faith in the LORD and commitment to one another we cultivate opportunities for sharpening we all need to better do the labour God intends to do through us. 

Faith Retained in Christ

Placing your faith in the wrong things can lead to devastating consequences.  All the time we hear about trusted people who were exposed as frauds, like an investor that secretly ran a Ponzi scheme and stole the money or the friendly neighbour later exposed as a molester.  It recently was huge news when a small group of people died aboard a submersible they believed would safely allow them to tour the wreck of the Titanic in the crushing depths.  Some place faith in themselves they ought to be reserved only for the almighty God.  Misplaced faith is a dangerous thing, and the disastrous evidence of this is all around.

I have witnessed this misplaced faith in people who look to a priest or minister for hope and assurance of salvation rather than Christ and His word.  People can give credence to feelings or experiences to confirm what is true and real instead of what God has plainly spoken in the scripture.  Today I read a quote from a Christian organisation that said, "...We will never stop believing in our young generation."  I cannot imagine Jesus ever saying such a thing.  Generations young or old are not worthy of our faith which ought to be placed in Jesus Christ alone because He is our Saviour and Redeemer; He is our Strength and living Hope.  It may be a common tactic to pump up a crowd or congregation by telling them how wonderful and worthy they are, yet this runs counter to the Gospel of Jesus Christ that points to Him as the only One worthy of faith and trust.

In a world full of flawed people, there is nothing easier than finding fault with others.  But it can be very difficult to honestly examine our own hearts and repent of our misplaced faith.  Considering this quote prompts me to see if I am guilty of misplaced faith or presenting a message that leads people away from faith in Jesus Christ alone.  If the Galatian church could be swayed from the Gospel to the beggarly elements of the Law and labour to put themselves under the curse Jesus redeemed them from, so can we (Gal. 4:19).  Judging ourselves righteously and responding with repentance and obedience to Jesus is something we can do before it is too late to change course.  Praise the LORD the indwelling Holy Spirit convicts of sin, teaches, guides and comforts us as we look to Jesus and trust in Him.

Having our faith built upon Jesus as revealed in scripture is a key factor in finishing our pilgrimage of faith strong.  The wisdom of the world (which is foolishness to God) is like a lion at the door waiting for an opportunity to pounce.  Worldly messages, tactics and emotional appeals can be convincing and  seem to provide results we are looking for.  A rock-solid biblical foundation and the lens of the Gospel help us establish a worldview that is resistant to the wisdom of the world and yields to the wisdom of God--and Jesus Who is our life and wisdom for us.  People place their faith in all sorts of things, but blessed are the people whose God is the LORD Jesus. 

God's Works Revealed In Us

"Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. ² And His disciples asked Him, saying, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" ³ Jesus answered, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him."

John 9:1-3

As I was preparing the sermon for this week, I was drawn to consider this among many other passages of scripture.  Having been raised observing the Law of Moses, the disciples were well-versed on passages that warned of the consequences of sin--that God would bring disease and illness upon them for departing from obedience to His word.  It seemed obvious to the disciples, therefore, this man or his parents must have sinned in some fashion to deserve this permanent condition.  The answer of Jesus must have been surprising to them, and it is very good news for us as well.

The disciples had fallen into a common trap that they could by simple observation know the root cause of a problem--as if they were God.  Since Jesus is God and knew all about this man and his parents, He was able with authority to declare the truth:  neither the sin of the parents or the unborn child was the reason for his blindness.  It seems the religious leaders believed similarly to the disciples, for even after Jesus miraculously healed him they sneered, "You were completely born in sins, and are you teaching us?"  Jesus did not suggest the man blind from birth or his parents had lived their lives entirely without sin, yet it was not a particular sin that led to their son being born blind.  God had redemptive purposes in mind He would bring to pass in due time.

Jesus said, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him."  Here is the marvellous grace of God shown in an unexpected way.  The disciples looked upon the man's blindness as a curse, yet it was the means God would redeem for the works of God to be revealed in him.  What some call a disability was the way Jesus used to bring spiritual insight to the man he would boldly proclaim to others:  he once was blind, but because of Jesus he could see.  On the momentous day this man received physical sight he was thrown out of the synagogue, yet with his eyes he saw in-person the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ, and worshipped Him as LORD.  Getting kicked out the synagogue was overshadowed completely by being received into the kingdom of God by faith in Jesus.

Isn't it wonderful to consider the things which may prevent us from doing what others can physically do can be the vehicle for God to reveal His works in us?  We are often like the disciples, rushing to judgments based upon our assumptions without considering God's redemptive power, goodness and grace.  People with perfect eyesight can remain in the dark and blind to God's wonderful works He desires to reveal in us, and only with eyes of faith in Christ can we receive them gladly.  Having experienced redemption by the Gospel, we are now able to proclaim to others the goodness, mercy and faithfulness of God to us--even if our eyesight fails.

When Things Go Wrong

Have you ever had things go wrong?  It is likely there have been occasions today unexpected things happened you wish could have been avoided.  For instance, today I investigated why the printer was producing folded pages.  I could see paper dust residue inside the printer, so I figured it would be better to vacuum it out rather than make the dust airborne in the house with compressed air.  What I did not notice was a sizeable foam insert only after it was immediately sucked into the vacuum!  I was grateful I had just changed the bag so the part was easy to remove and replace into the printer--after sopping up ink it had absorbed that was all over my hands.  You know, things like that. :)

My mind flitted back to years ago when I had organised a pour of concrete at my house.  I put in the hard yards with my dad setting forms, laying down steel mesh, paid for the concrete and managed labour.  And then the night before the pour I came down with the flu or had food poisoning.  I was disappointed to be sick and wasn't able to contribute on the day like I planned on doing.  God was gracious in providing the skilled labour necessary to pour and finish the concrete, which are skills I do not possess anyway.  I can think of other times where things went wrong and there was no immediate good I could point to that came from it, even though I am convinced God caused it to work for good.

The wonderous thing is the almighty God I know and love has never had the experience of anything ever going wrong.  There has never been an occasion something unexpected and bad happened He was unaware of and incapable of redeeming.  Even saying something has "gone wrong" exposes our misguided expectations, our ignorance of knowing what was coming and what God is planning.  When Jesus was crucified on the cross, His disciples were dismayed and totally shattered even though He told them beforehand it would come to pass.  Peter later wrote to believers who suffered persecution for their faith 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."  By design God would bring unexpected fiery trials His people's way they were by faith in Him to welcome into their lives like offering hospitality to a stranger into their home, and in the midst of their present suffering they could rejoice in a glorious future with their risen LORD and Saviour Jesus.

In this world things will go wrong and sometimes very wrong.  This results in all sorts of troubles with added inconvenience, extra work, needing to reschedule appointments, increased expense, feelings of embarrassment, physical pain, going without something important, needing to organise rides or to humble ourselves and apologise.  The list of our unexpected problems and difficulties is truly endless.  When things go wrong for us, we can rest assured nothing has gone wrong for God.  Our unexpected calamity, boneheaded decision or weakness does not prevent Him from accomplishing His good plans and tests us in the meantime, to see if we will trust Him or not.  Our fleshly responses when things go wrong may provide some of the clearest, best insights into aspects of our character God desires us to repent of as sinful and be more like Him today and moving forward.

Our Bright Future

Lately I've been considering the world that existed before the flood, even when Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden.  I have found it difficult to imagine a world different from what we experience today, an existence completely without the curse of sin that brought death and multiplied sorrow exponentially.  Life outside of Eden must have been a difficult adjustment for Adam and Eve, and it must have been difficult for Noah and his household as well to exit the ark into a world that hardly resembled what they previously knew.  Their relationship to animals changed as well, for the LORD put the fear of man upon living creatures.

One thing that is easier to comprehend (also ironic because it is unfathomable) is the ease of transition it will be for people who depart this world in physical death and will be received into eternal glory by God in heaven.  As our lives on earth will someday end, so the heavens and earth we see and experience now will also be brought to an end.  Revelation 21:1-4 says, "Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. ² Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. ³ And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. ⁴ And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."

It is hard to imagine a new heaven and new earth where God will dwell with His people free of the effects of sin's curse.  It is not hard to imagine how wonderful it will be to live with our glorious Saviour in a new world where death, sorrow, crying and pain have passed away and will be gone without a trace.  After his resurrection Jesus presented His hands marked by nails and His side pierced with a spear, yet there was not recollection of the pain He experienced, no tender scar tissue, no lamenting over His suffering or those who rejected the offer of salvation.  Our perfect God will make the eternal state perfect without flaw, leaving nothing to be desired, and all of our needs completely met in Him.

Since God has made this world that even soiled with sin man is loathe to leave and wants to preserve his fond memories forever, how much more lovely will it be in the place where only righteousness dwells?  In the eternal state our minds will never linger on the good that once was that seems presently absent, for it will always be good presently without respite.  The heavenly honeymoon stage will always be in the exciting present without weariness, boredom or thinking, "What's next?"  Praise God for the plans He has for us and the place Jesus is preparing for us.  These things we only see dimly pale in comparison to the knowledge of the God we know Who will Himself be with us forever. :)

All to the Glory of God

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

1 Corinthians 10:31

Paul exhorted people of the church in Corinth to be sensitive to the perspectives of others in their eating and drinking.  For people whose background was steeped in idolatry, some were careful not to eat meat offered to idols because it was a return to their heathen ways.  It was lawful to eat the meat found in the local shops, but it was not edifying to some.  Thus Paul implored believers, whether they chose to eat or drink or abstain, they were to do all to the glory of God.  They could eat and glorify God for His provision, or they could choose not to eat and glorify God through showing love to their sensitive brother.

This exhortation to do all to the glory of God is not limited to eating or drinking.  It can be extended to the reasons why we wear particular clothes, being sensitive to acceptable styles of dress in a culture or to show modesty.  The implication is whatever we do can be done all to the glory of God.  This doctrine might challenge many assumptions we may ascribe to and work to purify our motives for the things we do and choose not to do.  The other day my brothers at church and I had a laugh about rescheduling a Bible study to watch a game.  On the surface it may seem obvious a Bible study is of far greater spiritual value than a game of rugby.  Is it even possible for God to get glory from people playing a game and watching it?  Why not?  Another question to consider is, do all Bible studies and people leading or attending in themselves give glory to God?

It is entirely possible people can preach, lead worship or a Bible study with a proud, boastful or self-absorbed heart.  It is also possible for people to attend a service or study out of duty, in an attempt to "score points" with God or man, or for the opportunity to meet other singles.  The strangest reason one person freely volunteered to me they came to church was for the air conditioning!  Playing or watching a game of sport in itself gives no glory to God, but for the believer it is possible to do so.  A Christian player can be a godly witness to their fellow players in practice and on game day, conducting themselves in love with teammates and the opposition.  Glory can be given to God by their words, how they use them and by what they refuse to say because they are in fellowship with God.  With a clear conscience I could reschedule a Bible study if it provides opportunity to show love and consider one another,  a chance to give and provide for each others needs, to include each other and seek to pray with one another.  Our Bible studies also should provide such opportunity.  God is able to be in the middle of our work, play, eating, drinking, dress, hobbies and families.

The reality is, however, we can play or watch a game without a thought of God; we can dress ourselves and eat even without a prayer.  We can read the scriptures and go to Bible studies without giving glory to God by thanking or obeying Him.  If we are eating and drinking all for the glory of God, it will not justify gluttony or drunkenness.  Since our eating, drinking and whatever we do can be done all for the glory of God, let us make that our aim--not just to bring God into our ordinary activities--but that we would seek God how to obey and honour Him in the things we do and choose not to do.  And who knows?  When we begin to live for the glory of God, our activities and appetites will likely change.  Our reasons why we do or do not do something will be guided by the Holy Spirit continually, and those who submit to Christ give glory to God.

God Brings About Good

"Joseph said to them, "Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? ²⁰ But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive."

Genesis 50:19-20

With eyes of faith in the God of his fathers, Joseph perceived God's redemptive power and purposes in evil he endured.  His brothers had done terrible evil to him, yet at the same time God meant it for good.  It can be difficult--impossible even--to see good in the bad we have suffered.  Our sense of pain, betrayal and loss can prevent us from looking to God who is always gracious and good.

It is one thing for us to exercise faith Paul's confidence God is able and will work all things together for good who love God in Romans 8:28:  "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."  By placing faith in the God Paul knew, he had strong confidence God worked all things he suffered for good even when he could not see it.  It is another thing to believe the evil things we are guilty of could also be redeemed for good by God, and this is the position Joseph's brothers and perhaps you find yourself in.

Joseph was sold to Midianite traders by his brothers at 17 years of age, and he was reunited with them about 20 years later.  Joseph wept when he heard them talking among each other and expressing regret they had sinned against Joseph and were being made to answer for his blood.  They believed Joseph was dead and felt guilty over all they had done, and even after Joseph revealed himself to them they still were afraid of retribution 17 years later after Jacob died in Egypt.  Some 37 years after they ripped off Joseph's colourful tunic, sold him and lied to his father about what happened, they were still wracked with guilt and fear over their past.  Genesis 50:16-17 tells us, "So they sent messengers to Joseph, saying, "Before your father died he commanded, saying, ¹⁷ 'Thus you shall say to Joseph: "I beg you, please forgive the trespass of your brothers and their sin; for they did evil to you." ' Now, please, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of your father." And Joseph wept when they spoke to him."

Joseph had forgiven his brothers long ago, yet they were burdened with guilt, remorse and fear because they had not received it.  Joseph accepted God meant the evil that happened to him for good, and it was his brother's turn to believe evil they had done was also intended and redeemed by God for good.  There was no question what they did was sin, nor does God's grace and goodness excuse our wickedness--imagining we are free to do evil so good might come.  The point, is there are many God-fearing people who have repented of sin that continues to weigh heavily upon them with shame, guilt and fear for decades or even the rest of their lives.  As many times we have been in Joseph's sandals because of wrongs done to us, when we find ourselves in the position of his guilty brothers we can rest assured God will forgive our sins when we repent and miraculously bring good from evil we have done.

We might never be able to perceive all or some of the good God does through evil in the world, yet when we look to our LORD in faith we focus on Him Who only is good.  If we are preoccupied with our own pain, shame, the trouble we have caused, lamenting what could have been, wishing we could go back in time and do things differently, we can lose sight on the God who is with us and leads us in righteousness and faith moving forward.  While sin always has negative consequences, living in fear, regret and guilt is not God's intention for the repentant, humble believer who has received forgiveness purchased at the price of Christ's shed blood.  Those who are guilty of grave sin can be brought to a place of rejoicing in God who saves, forgives, redeems, heals and sets captives free.

Godly Sorrow

"Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. ¹⁰ For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death."

2 Corinthians 7:9-10

Paul previously wrote a letter that identified and rebuked sin the Corinthian church, and it resulted in godly sorrow that lead them to repent of their sin, an eagerness to clear themselves of all wrongdoing, longing for reconciliation before God and man, and swift readiness to do justly.  From Paul's words it follows there is a sorrow that falls short of repentance, a worldly sorrow that produces death.  We see this sort of worldly sorrow in Judas after he betrayed Jesus.

During the Passover feast in Jerusalem, Judas secretly met with priests and covenanted to deliver Jesus into their hand at a convenient time and was paid 30 pieces of silver.  As promised, Judas brought the religious rulers with temple guards to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane where He was arrested.  It seems Judas was not fully aware of the murderous scheme of the Pharisees and priests to deliver Jesus to the Romans who sentenced Him to be crucified.  Matthew 27:3-5 reads, "Then Judas, His betrayer, seeing that He had been condemned, was remorseful and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, ⁴ saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." And they said, "What is that to us? You see to it!" ⁵ Then he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself."  Judas experienced sorrowful pangs of guilt and acknowledged he had sinned.  Yet we do not see him repent at all for his greed, deceit and hypocrisy:  he imagined if he admitted he was wrong and returned the silver, he could off his guilt.

When the religious rulers refused to receive the silver from his hand, Judas threw it into the temple and went and hung himself--a physical demonstration of a spiritual reality.  Admitting he had sinned, his attempt to return the silver, and the experience deep sorrow did not lead to repentance because Judas did not sorrow in a godly manner.  To commit sin is to make a covenant with death we cannot escape or ignore; nothing we do can undo the evil we have done.  Because Judas only sorrowed in a worldly fashion--without faith in the goodness, grace, redemption and forgiveness freely offered by the living God--his focus was on himself, his wrongs, awful feelings and the bad situation he helped create.  Judas showed admission of sin can stop short of humbling self before God and then he played God by choosing to end his life.  When he could have fallen down before God broken for his sin with tears, he likely wept over his sorrow as he strung himself up.

Judas nursed great regret he could not escape by admitting his sin or trying to set things right by returning the silver.  It was not suicide that prevented him from entering into eternal life (for God forgives murderers who repent and trust in Him) but his refusal to humble himself by faith in repentance before God when he sorrowed for sin.  Sorrowing for sin in a godly manner that leads to repentance is something to rejoice over, for there is hope in God who imputes righteousness to humble sinners who repent.  We cannot right our wrongs by depth of sorrow, admitting our guilt or returning the proceeds of our crimes:  it is by casting our pride, sorrows and ourselves at the feet of our Saviour Jesus Christ in repentance, trusting He will forgive all by the power of the Gospel of grace.  Praise the LORD for the assurance God gives to believers in 1 John 1:9:  "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

The Hair Reminder

The words of Jesus contain great wisdom from God Himself and insight.  In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 5:33-37:  "Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.' ³⁴ But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God's throne; ³⁵ nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. ³⁶ Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. ³⁷ But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one."  After receiving the Law of Moses that commanded Hebrews to keep their oaths, what developed was people felt obligated to speak truthfully only when they swore an oath.  Some made their honesty contingent on the perceived worthiness of what they swore upon and thus justified breaking their oaths!  Jesus taught man ought to speak the truth without swearing on anything.  He does not swear falsely who does not swear at all.

Tucked away in the middle of this paragraph is an important observation:  "...you cannot make one hair white or black."  Jesus is not referring to our ability (or inability!) to dye our hair black or white.  We can dye our hair any colour of the rainbow or shave off all our hair, but the point Jesus made is we do not have the power to choose or change our "natural" colour.  As people age it is common to dye hair to cover up the grey, and others who are balding may shave it short or completely bald.  It isn't long before dyed or shaved hair grows back, and we have no power in ourselves to change the natural colour of a single hair.

In contrast to our powerlessness, the LORD God Who created us reigns and rules over all people.  It is His sovereign choice to fashion each one of us in the womb and made us male or female, gave us facial features, bone structure, and He determined our hair and eye colour.  While we might attempt to cover, hide, or change these things, it is God who created us as it pleased Him.  No hair dye, hair cut, clothing, name change or surgical procedure can fundamentally change who we are before God.  Amazingly, the opportunity exists for everyone to become a new creation by faith in Jesus Christ, by surrendering our lives before our Creator and Saviour and being born again through the Gospel.  We have no power to make one hair white or black, but in Christ we are given the power to speak truth and walk accordingly.

Everything we say is before the sovereign LORD who hears and knows all, and He also knows the thoughts and intents of our hearts.  Perjury is a grave crime in a courtroom punishable by law, and God is the One who judges us, whether our 'Yes' was 'Yes' and our 'No' was 'No.'  We can cover up our grey hair or dye our few remaining dark hair silver, but we cannot hide a word before God.  It is good for us before we go to the judgment seat of Christ to confess our lies and deceit and repent, thus receiving forgiveness from our Saviour and choose to speak honestly and sincerely.  We have no power to change what we have already said, but every hair on our bodies provides a reminder of our divine call to speak truth going forward as God does.

Redeemer in Command

It is good for the child of God to realise we never are at the mercy of our enemies but our awesome heavenly Father.  An overwhelming trial or situation never puts us beyond God's help and perfect peace.  When the ground shakes under our feet or we start to lose our balance, we instinctively grasp at a handrail or something we know to be solid and can bear weight to stay upright.  Trials test us to see if we will run to and reach for the Rock of our salvation in our desperate state or give place to despair in unbelief.

Many times in the history of the nation of Israel their enemies had the upper hand.  Due to sin, idolatry or for God's good purposes not explained to us, Israel was oppressed and the people lived in fear.  The book of Judges has a repetitive theme of people doing what was right in their own eyes, forsaking God and His statutes, and then falling into the hands of their enemies to chasten them back to the LORD.  When they cried out to God in due time He raised up a deliverer from among His people to deliver them.  Even in God's punishment by the hand of heathen people He retained all rule--even over their enemies.

Consider the words of Deborah the prophetess in Judges 4:6-7:  "Then she sent and called for Barak the son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali, and said to him, "Has not the LORD God of Israel commanded, 'Go and deploy troops at Mount Tabor; take with you ten thousand men of the sons of Naphtali and of the sons of Zebulun; ⁷ and against you I will deploy Sisera, the commander of Jabin's army, with his chariots and his multitude at the River Kishon; and I will deliver him into your hand'?"  There is no question Sisera thought he had the upper hand over Israel with his 900 chariots of iron, but it was God who would deploy this enemy of Israel to his own destruction.  The NIV says God would "lure" Sisera.  Sisera proudly imagined himself to be the apex predator, but he was like a fish with a hook through the jaw by the God of Israel.  It wasn't long before his army was completely destroyed and he was dead in Jael's tent, head pinned to the ground with a tent stake driven through his temple.

In His wisdom God used Sisera to chasten His people back to faith and obedience to God, and in due time brought Sisera's brutal, oppressive ways to an end.  This same principle applies in the spiritual realm as well, for Satan cannot overcome God's wisdom and ways.  One day he will be destroyed forever, and we ought to rejoice in our Saviour more than his demise.  We do well to believe and proclaim what Paul did in Romans 8:28:  "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."  Oppressive enemies are not good; nagging illness, lack of sleep and severe conditions are not pleasant.  Spiritual attacks are terrible in themselves, but all these are easily redeemed by our awesome God who causes them to accomplish His good purposes for His people He loves and keeps as the apple of His eye.  Praise the LORD for His grace and faithfulness to us always.

Time of War and Peace

Wise Solomon observed in Ecclesiastes 3:8 there is "...a time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace."  With spiritual insight we see love and hate, while seemingly opposites, can exist at the same time and even compliment one another.  Due to active love of God within us, a child of God chooses to hate sin and every evil way.  Even in the midst of conflict, the one who trusts God can experience perfect peace by faith in Jesus Christ.  But the point Solomon made is spelled out in Ecclesiastes 3:1:  "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven...".  God has good purposes and plans He accomplishes in every season of life, and we can have confidence He knows what He is doing.

It may seem strange to think in this wonderful world created by God there would be a time for hate and war.  Yet this is not at all odd when we realise and acknowledge we live in a world of sin where people are always at war with God:  hating Him, slandering and opposing Him, filled with malice and bigoted against Him.  Because God is righteous, He cannot and will not make peace or be united with sin He hates.  Sin is altogether contrary to Him and destroys life He created to be good, separating souls eternally from His presence.  Jesus died on the cross and rose form the grave to defeat sin and death, and one day God will also wage war upon and destroy all sinners as the righteous Judge and KING OF KINGS that He is.

Judges 3:1-4 explains reasons why God allowed the children of Israel to experience conflict and warfare, and relates to the born-again children of God today:  "Now these are the nations which the LORD left, that He might test Israel by them, that is, all who had not known any of the wars in Canaan ² (this was only so that the generations of the children of Israel might be taught to know war, at least those who had not formerly known it), ³ namely, five lords of the Philistines, all the Canaanites, the Sidonians, and the Hivites who dwelt in Mount Lebanon, from Mount Baal Hermon to the entrance of Hamath. ⁴ And they were left, that He might test Israel by them, to know whether they would obey the commandments of the LORD, which He had commanded their fathers by the hand of Moses."  The generation that entered the promised land was commanded to destroy the inhabitants of the land and take possession of their inheritance by lot.  After that generation passed away, their children had only known peace and prosperity.  God did not wipe out the enemies of Israel, yet allowed them to remain for several reasons:  to test them, to see if they would obey His commands.

The Law of Moses contained many promises of victory and peace to those who feared God and kept His commands as in Leviticus 26:6-9:  "I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and none will make you afraid; I will rid the land of evil beasts, and the sword will not go through your land. ⁷ You will chase your enemies, and they shall fall by the sword before you. ⁸ Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight; your enemies shall fall by the sword before you. ⁹ 'For I will look on you favorably and make you fruitful, multiply you and confirm My covenant with you."  Conversely, if God's people did not keep His commands, He would give them over to their enemies and would flee in terror when no one pursued them.  If they would then confess their iniquity and transgressions in humility before God, accepting the punishment of their iniquity for hating His judgments, God would remember the covenant made with their fathers and deliver them.

God allowed His people to experience long seasons of war and conflict so they might learn--not primarily how to use a sword, spear, bow, shield or tactics--but to depend on their LORD God for victory, knowing peace is found only by faith and obedience to Him.  This is also one reason God allows believers to experience trials, illness, oppression and enemies during our season on earth.  God's will is we would learn to fight the good fight of faith, choosing to seek and trust Jesus rather than looking to ourselves or others for an escape.  When we face enemies stronger than ourselves, God watches to see if we will keep trusting and obeying Him.  God uses battles that overwhelm us to teach us of His faithfulness and mighty deliverance so we might live for His glory and praise long after the battle is done.

People Whose God is the LORD

In Psalm 1, David says blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners nor sits in the seat of the scornful.  He is blessed who delights in the law of the LORD and meditates in it day and night.  Such a one is compared to a tree planted by rivers of water that brings fruit in due season, whose leaf does not wither and whatsoever he does will prosper because of His God.  The idols of the heathen were believed to bring prosperity, good fortune and luck, yet all they could provide was false hope.  The living, almighty God of Israel is the One who gives abundant life and supplies all our needs--in this life and that which is to come.

The blessings contained in the Law of Moses primarily concerned life on earth, the "here and now."  David sang in Psalm 144:9-15:  "I will sing a new song to You, O God; on a harp of ten strings I will sing praises to You, ¹⁰ the One who gives salvation to kings, Who delivers David His servant from the deadly sword. ¹¹ Rescue me and deliver me from the hand of foreigners, whose mouth speaks lying words, and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood--¹² that our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as pillars, sculptured in palace style; ¹³ that our barns may be full, supplying all kinds of produce; that our sheep may bring forth thousands and ten thousands in our fields; ¹⁴ that our oxen may be well-laden; that there be no breaking in or going out; that there be no outcry in our streets. ¹⁵ Happy are the people who are in such a state; happy are the people whose God is the LORD!"

David's prayer was a good one, that the marital unions of the people would be fruitful to produce godly children.  Blessed and happy are the people whose God is the LORD, who provides salvation and all we need for life and godliness.  Whilst God's people are never guaranteed children, an over-abundance of food and reserves, or everyone will have an ox for their stable (or car in their garage!), God is faithful to provide for all we need--including deliverance and salvation.  What He gives us is more than money could ever buy, for He causes us to be spiritually fruitful by the indwelling Holy Spirit.  Rather than our lives being marked by the works of the flesh, our lives can produce the fruit of the Spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, self-control and on.

By faith in Jesus Christ, every sinner has the opportunity for salvation, to become one of God's people.  There is one LORD over all other gods, spirits, people and creating things, and happy are the people who know and serve Him as God.  As God's servant Habakkuk said well of God his strength in Habakkuk 3:17-18:  "Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls--¹⁸ yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation."  Whether or not we seem prosperous today, we can rejoice in the LORD who is the God our our salvation.  He is our Life, and our future is safe and glorious in His presence.

Watch Yourself!

"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.¹⁴ Let all that you do be done with love."

1 Corinthians 16:13-14

When we read exhortations to "watch" in the scripture, our minds might go to the role of the watchman who vigilantly kept watch over a city to sound the alarm at the sign of an approaching enemy.  This watchman on duty was primarily serving the common good, like a shepherd who was on guard to protect sheep from wolves and thieves.  In context, this exhortation to "watch" is better viewed as primarily personal.  Rather than keeping watch for the protection of others to warn them of approaching dangers, this call is to first keep watch over ourselves that we are doing what Paul commands ourselves:  stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong and see all that we do be done with love.

Examining our own hearts, ensuring we stand in the faith of Jesus Christ and doing all in love ourselves will result in better watchmen of the the flock or city.  If we leave this personal calling and responsibility undone, we will be like the one Jesus spoke of who had the log in their own eye and could not see clearly to remove a speck from their brother's eye.  It is fine to be on guard against external threats or even on falsehoods worming their way into the church, but the ones that creep into our own hearts and minds due to pride, hypocrisy and self-righteousness are the most destructive.  King Saul's problem was not the Philistines that couched in garrisons but his own proud and rebellious heart.  Having been born again by faith in Jesus, He makes us to be brave and be strong because of our new identify in Him.

In 1 Corinthians 13 Paul previously gave a wonderful description of love that ought to guide our thinking, decisions and conduct.  By steadfast faith in Jesus, we ought to see we walk according to God's unfailing love shown in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7:  "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."  By God's grace let us see we are brave and strong to live like this, and as we follow Jesus we will see clearly to follow Him closely, delighting in Him and doing His will.

Insight Into Reality

When communicating with others it is possible to send an unintended message.  I used to think if someone was telling me about their problem it was because they actually wanted suggestions on possible solutions, but I have learned this is rarely the case.  Years of studying and being taught the Bible sent the message it was my responsibility, not only to learn and follow the scripture, but to engage with people with the intent to share the Gospel and lead them to Christ.  Somehow I imagined changing people's minds was now my responsibility, having been endowed with wisdom from above.  Coming to realise changing people's hearts and minds is what only God can do provided welcome relief from self-condemnation after my countless failures.

In his book Renovation of the Heart, Dallas Willard said on the subject:

"Our beliefs and feelings cannot be changed by choice.  We cannot just choose to have different beliefs and feelings.  But we do have some liberty to take in different ideas and information and to think about things in different ways.  We can choose to take in the Word of God, and when we do that, beliefs and feelings will be steadily pulled in a godly direction.  One of the worst mistakes that can be made in practical ministry is to think that people can choose to believe and feel differently.  Following that, we will mistakenly try to generate faith by going through the will--possibly trying to move the will by playing on emotion.  Rather, the will must be moved by insight into truth and reality.  Such insight will evoke emotion appropriate to a new set of the will.  That is the order of real inward change...Belief is when your whole being is set to act as if something is so.  And that is how the commands of Jesus finally come to us as we grow.  We see them to be reality." (Willard, Dallas, et al. Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ. Form, 2021. Pages 261-262)

Just this morning I read Paul's concluding remarks after establishing the proper order of the use of spiritual gifts in a church assembly in 1 Corinthians 14:37-38:  "If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. ³⁸ But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant."  Paul conveyed the divinely inspired Word of God, and if people refused to humbly receive it and apply it personally it was not his responsibility to make them change.  Paul would not have them be ignorant of spiritual gifts and thus he held forth the truth.  There was no reason to remain ignorant of God and His commands, yet if someone was intent to carry on in ignorance that was their choice.  If they were blind leaders of the blind they would all fall into the ditch, and perhaps the experience would bring them to their senses of their need for God.

God does not hold us responsible to change other people, but He does require us to embrace personal change as we follow Jesus as disciples.  He has compassion on the ignorant, but our good God and Teacher does not keep the children of light in the dark about His will and ways.  Ignorance does not work in our favour but ultimately leads to destruction.  Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God, and is the revelation of God that directs us to seek and know Him, to ask for forgiveness and salvation, to obey His commands and do what pleases Him.  It is by exposure to God's Word, the Holy Spirit within us and the fellowship of the saints that prompts positive change of our beliefs to think more like Him, the humbling of our will by faith in Jesus with intent to do God's will and find rest in Him.

For the Profit of All

"There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. ⁵ There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. ⁶ And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. ⁷ But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all..."

1 Corinthians 12:4-7

In Paul's letter to the Corinthian church, he compared the church to a body where Jesus Christ is the head and all Christians are connected to Him and one another.  Hands and feet are different from each other, but they both have their function to serve the whole body.  God, who created every person unique, by the Holy Spirit gives a variety of spiritual gifts that minister in countless ways to people in the church.  Even as all humans share the same basic physical anatomy but can look very different in appearance, the same spiritual gift can be as unique as believers who receive and exercise it.

Paul emphasised the sovereignty of God, the unity of believers, the diversity of gifts and activities.  In verse 7 the reason is stated for the gifts, ministries, activities and work of the church together:  each believer is gifted for the profit of all.  This passage and others in the New Testament describe roles and spiritual gifts given to Christians so members of the church individually and the church corporately will be edified and Jesus Christ glorified.  It is important to understand the spiritual gifts God gives us are not primarily for our own personal edification but for the building up of the church.  This means spiritual gifts are not to be reserved or limited for personal use but to be used in the church community as we gather together regularly.  Through the use of gifts, ministry and activities, God chooses to work all so all will profit.

In my youth this was entirely a foreign concept to me.  For instance, when I received a birthday gift, I viewed it as mine--it was intended for me to use when and how I wanted.  It was not my brother's toy or my sister's toy, but my personal property.  I remember receiving a gift of beef jerky once and since it was a special treat I limited myself to only one piece every day to savour it until it was gone.  It never once occurred to me to offer some of the jerky to my siblings or parents who gave it to me.  It was mine!  I did not think to follow my dad's example, for whenever he received an edible gift his first impulse was to open the container and pass it around so everyone could enjoy the treat together.  It wasn't that he didn't like cashews or beef jerky but he cared about those around him who would appreciate a snack as well.

Since God has been gracious and generous to give us forgiveness, salvation and spiritual gifts, we ought to be generous with the gifts He has given us to people in the church.  Galatians 6:10 reads, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."  When we consider the roles and spiritual gifts mentioned in this chapter, we see all of them involve a group of people.  1 Corinthians 12:29-30 says, "Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? ³⁰ Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?"  What is the point of an apostle being sent who goes to no one, a prophet without hearers or a teacher without students?  Jesus healed others rather than himself, and tongues with interpretations are a sign to unbelievers and believers can praise God together with understanding.

God has given us spiritual gifts for the profit of all, and even we are not our own because we have been bought with the precious blood of Jesus.  Praise God for His gracious gifts and how He uses diverse people with various gifts for the same purpose of edifying the church.  Instead of being like me, hoarding my gift of beef jerky for myself, let us be as generous share around God's love and serve others like Jesus always does.

Unexpected Blessing

As Israel's life drew to a close, he asked Joseph to bring his two sons to his bedside so he could bless them.   Joseph intentionally placed the older son Manasseh on the right hand of his father and younger Ephraim on the left.  Joseph was displeased when Israel suddenly crossed his arms and placed his hands opposite of Joseph's preference.  Joseph protested as he reached out and grabbed his father's hand to physically remove his right hand from Ephraim and place it upon Manasseh.  Israel refused to yield to Joseph's demands and blessed both of them, by faith in God revealing the younger would become a greater people than the elder.

Joseph was initially humbled and most pleased his sons were blessed by his father Israel, yet he was displeased in the manner the blessing was given.  The dual blessing was the same spoken over both of them, but Joseph was irked the younger would have the greater blessing that ought to be reserved his older son.  It is ironic Joseph complained because this blessing from the LORD was all of grace, for Reuben was Israel's firstborn son, and Israel adopted Ephraim and Manasseh into his line.  Isn't it strange how even unbelievers won't refuse blessing from God if it means they can have things their way?  Joseph preferred Israel bless his sons the way he thought best, and believers today can do the same thing with God.

One of the difficulties lies in the vagueness and arbitrary nature of what we commonly call "blessing."  We would be incorrect to believe the word means whatever we want it to.  The Hebrew conveys "to praise, to fill with strength" and can be a gift, benefit, advantage or wish of happiness.  Wouldn't it be true to say if something is "of the LORD" it is a blessing regardless if we asked for it or if we feel privileged to have it or not?  The blessing of the LORD upon Ephraim and Manasseh was good for both of them--even though the younger was set before the older.  There are many things that God has allowed in my life that did not feel or seem good at the time, yet now with hindsight I can recognise they were gracious blessings from His hand.  When Jesus died on the cross it was all bad to His disciples, yet in time they came to understand it was the means of imparting blessings of forgiveness, salvation and adoption for lost sinners provided by the Gospel.

Since God is good and His ways are higher than ours, the trial or unexpected difficulty we face right now in time we may look back upon with eyes of faith and count it among the greatest blessings from God we have received.  The unexpected blessings provided by God's grace are just as lovely and priceless as the blessings we beg for.  Praise the LORD He delights to bless us, and without a doubt He Himself is our greatest blessing.  We ought to expect these unexpected blessings continually and receive them gladly by faith in Him.

Death of the High Priest

It was a most tragic day when king Saul commanded Doeg the Edomite to take up a sword and slay the priests of Nob because the high priest Ahimelech helped David.  When David came and said he was on secret business from the king, there was no reason to question this champion of Israel.  Yet at the command of his king Doeg butchered everyone and every animal in Nob, save Abiathar the son of the high priest who escaped to tell David the awful news.  1 Samuel 22:22-23 reads, "So David said to Abiathar, "I knew that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul. I have caused the death of all the persons of your father's house. ²³ Stay with me; do not fear. For he who seeks my life seeks your life, but with me you shall be safe."

The only gleam of light from this horrible situation was there was one priest who escaped the sword and bloodshed.  Abiathar went on to serve as the high priest of the almighty God David feared and followed.  But as I was reading a portion of the Law of Moses the other day, it occurred to me how this news would have hit different to a small group of Israelites at that time.  In Numbers 35, Moses established 6 cities of refuge throughout Israel, 3 on the west and 3 on the east of the Jordan river, so anyone who killed someone accidentally and without malice could flee from the avenger of blood and be given a fair trial.  If it was determined by the elders and congregation of the city it was indeed an accident and not premeditated murder, the one who shed blood would be permitted to live--with the caveat he was required to remain in the city of refuge until the death of the high priest.

Numbers 35:25-28 says, "So the congregation shall deliver the manslayer from the hand of the avenger of blood, and the congregation shall return him to the city of refuge where he had fled, and he shall remain there until the death of the high priest who was anointed with the holy oil. ²⁶ But if the manslayer at any time goes outside the limits of the city of refuge where he fled, ²⁷ and the avenger of blood finds him outside the limits of his city of refuge, and the avenger of blood kills the manslayer, he shall not be guilty of blood, ²⁸ because he should have remained in his city of refuge until the death of the high priest. But after the death of the high priest the manslayer may return to the land of his possession."  Think of all the people guilty of manslaughter who were living in cities of refuge when they receive the awful news the high priest Ahimelech had been executed.  Undoubtedly there was great mourning and sorrow over his untimely and unjust death.  At the same time this meant manslayers could legally and safely return to their home, family and friends they had not seen for a long while.  The death of the high priest released them from the requirement to remain in the city of refuge.

Jesus is referred to as our great High Priest, and He died on the cross to atone for sin.  Rather than being in a city of refuge as innocent of murder, we were in a prison guilty as sin awaiting eternal punishment.  There was no escape for us possible from sin and death until Jesus died in our place and rose from the dead.  This is one reason how the crucifixion of Jesus hits differently for those who have been born again through the Gospel, for we have been set free by His sacrifice.  He has freed us from the penalty of our sins because He paid the price to purchase us and redeem us from death so we can live in freedom, serving Him with joy and gladness.  We are called now to find refuge and abide in Jesus Christ who is our life, and He is faithful to guide, provide and help us continually.  Praise the LORD He was willing to die so we could live, to be wounded so we can be healed, broken so all who trust in Him can be made whole.