There is one man who sits in the classes who I talked to on the first day. He speaks no English and when I tried to pronounce his name, I failed miserably. And I really tried – a number of times. So I told him my name was David, hoping he would also have trouble, but he got it the first time. In fairness to me (I really feel the need to defend myself), Mongolian names are extremely difficult to pronounce because they are long and the ones I have met demand the exact pronunciation with no room for err. They usually shorten them but this particular man did not give me a break.
Anyway, I think he is a more simple man. He just sits and does not participate and I do not see him talking much with the other men. But after the class today, he was the last to leave and he came and give me a big hug (he is a bigger man). And then I met him again in the parking lot and he said one word: Go. And I said “Go” and we walked part way home, not saying a word. As I walked, I just wished I knew the language and could hear his story but his story remains silent to me. At the same time I was thankful just to walk part way home with this man. He would take the time to walk with me and in that short time of silence, there was an unspeakable “enjoyment” of just walking.
I had to wait at the church a little later on and I met a boy whose name is “Tuksa”. He walks with one straight leg and is a little slow mentally. I pointed at myself and said “David” and then pointed at him. “Tuksa”, he said. Tuksa. David. David. Tuksa. And then he would play games with me, standing straight in my face until I looked at him and then he would step back as if nothing happened. It was good just to see him laugh and I was extremely proud that someone accepted my pronunciation of their name. It was a win - win all around.
Today we covered Genesis 3-9 and in so doing, we covered all sorts of topics. Someone asked about 2 Timothy 2.15 (women being saved in childbirth) and someone else asked about whom Cain married. Many questions posed where questions that went beyond the Bible and so at one point I simply said: if the Bible is silent, then we should be silent on the matter. So it will be interesting to hear what questions are asked tomorrow and if I’ll have the opportunity to say that again.
After teaching, Andrew invited me to go along with the team from Canada to a cultural play put on in the city. So we fought traffic and arrived at around 6:30 to pay an equivalent to $6.00 Cndn to see Mongolian culture on the stage. After starting off with a Buddhist ritual with masks filled with skulls, there were various dances, singers and musicians. Probably the two most interesting features were the throat singer and the contortionists. The throat singer sings, yes, from the throat and makes various noises that sound, this is hard to describe, like a noise coming from the throat. He played an instrument and at times it sounded exactly like the note he was playing on his Mongolian “guitar”. The contortionists were younger girls who bend their bodies in unnatural (and even unreasonable) positions. The three girls would bend and fold and twist and fold into many different postures.
Afterwards we went to a … Chinese restaurant. Part of the reason for the choices of restaurants is the cleanliness and knowing that one will probably not get food poisoning or something else.
I continue to be thankful for the opportunity to teach these men. They are starting to call me their “teacher” when I walk past them and some are coming up and asking more detailed questions during the break and at lunch. Here’s one: a man asked what to do when he gave someone money (quite a large sum) to fix his churches’ “ger” and the man never finished the work. This man who did not finish the work is in another church and when he spoke to the pastor about it, nothing happened. What should he do? And part of the difficulty is not only knowing how to properly respond as a Christian but as a Mongolian Christian.
During the afternoon I answered questions during our ten minute break so I taught for three hours straight. If you would remember to pray that God would give physical, mental and spiritual strength during this time. These men (and some women) are eager to hear God’s Word so I am eager to speak. I just pray that God would strengthen me so I can teach with enthusiasm and the energy required.
One final “brain picture” I have from the day. I had to wait for the Canadian team to finish their meeting, so I walked into the church and I saw a young girl sitting near the front. I walked to the back to spend some time praying and as I was sitting, the young girl began to hum. It was beautiful. She was in a “church” building, alone, just spending time with God. The Lord placed that young girl to teach me again of the importance of being with God and being silent in his presence. It is a picture that will linger for a while on my brain … and my conscience.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Headed to Mongolian Grill or This One Is For You Dad
We seem to split the day up into four parts of teaching: 9-10:30; 10:40-12; 1-2:30; 2:40-4:00. A little bell rings at the end of the session and the first day when I went a little past, the bell rang again – 10:30 means 10:30. And so I have learned that when the bell tolls, I stop. Anyway, in our last session, I finished with Genesis 3 when God came to Adam and Eve. And we talked about how God comes to us when we have sinned against him. God came to Abraham, God came to Moses, God came to Israel, God came to us – and this is an act of grace on the part of God. The Lord was able to take the truth and give us an opportunity to respond with singing. I told the men and women that our knowledge is not to be just head knowledge but heart knowledge and an expression of thanksgiving to God. There is this one particular lady who does an excellent job leading songs and I asked if she would come up and if we could sing a song of response to God – I asked her if we could sing You Are My All In All. I wanted to sing that because it is the only song I can sing along with in English.
In the context, the chorus is powerful: Jesus, Lamb of God, Worthy is YOUR NAME. I rejoiced with a hand full of believers in Mongolia that God came to us and brought us salvation through Jesus Christ. It was a real moment of rejoicing in God’s mercy, grace, and kindness.
I need to mention lunch for a moment. If you were to sit down around our family table and we were to have meat and there was a bit of fat on it, you would notice that sometimes subtly and not so subtly my dad would cut away the fat. He would cut his meat well away from the fat so that no part of his body, fingers or mouth, would ever touch a piece of fat. So, this mention of lunch is for my dad. The main meal in Mongolia is lunch so they first brought out a bowl of soup with noodles, meat and yes – fat. Clumps of fat mixed in with the broth, sitting in all their white glory. (How are you feeling dad?) That was the first course. The second course was rice with a stir fry of what they called black mushrooms (Eva would be proud that I did not even make a facial grimace at the sound of black mushroom). As I began eating, I noticed once again mixed into the stir fry is – yes, none other than serious globs of fat. I found it all rather tasty and enjoyed the meal. I am so thankful that it is not extremely spicy because they give you lots of food. So dad, this “fat” paragraph is for you!! I hope you enjoyed.
The men and women today asked more questions throughout the teaching time. I was so thankful for this because it gives me an indication of where they are at and what they are thinking. We were able to talk about the coming glory, the new creation, sovereignty of God, what sin looks like and how we can battle against sin and many times they had questions. So the teaching seemed to go well and I believe it is an answer to prayer. So please continue to pray because the Mongolian leaders need to hear God’s Word so they can bring it to their people.
Well, I am off to BD’s with Andrew and Liz, their family and a group of Canadians Chartwell Baptist Church in Toronto. BD’s is apparently an American chain that calls itself Mongolian BBQ. When Chinggis and his troops would go off to fight, they would fry their food on their shields. It is like our Mongolian Grill. Some of you joked if I went to Mongolia, would I go to the Mongolian Grill and the answer apparently is YES – tonight I am going to an American Chain like our Mongolian Grill in Mongolia. It is a strange world, is it not?
In the context, the chorus is powerful: Jesus, Lamb of God, Worthy is YOUR NAME. I rejoiced with a hand full of believers in Mongolia that God came to us and brought us salvation through Jesus Christ. It was a real moment of rejoicing in God’s mercy, grace, and kindness.
I need to mention lunch for a moment. If you were to sit down around our family table and we were to have meat and there was a bit of fat on it, you would notice that sometimes subtly and not so subtly my dad would cut away the fat. He would cut his meat well away from the fat so that no part of his body, fingers or mouth, would ever touch a piece of fat. So, this mention of lunch is for my dad. The main meal in Mongolia is lunch so they first brought out a bowl of soup with noodles, meat and yes – fat. Clumps of fat mixed in with the broth, sitting in all their white glory. (How are you feeling dad?) That was the first course. The second course was rice with a stir fry of what they called black mushrooms (Eva would be proud that I did not even make a facial grimace at the sound of black mushroom). As I began eating, I noticed once again mixed into the stir fry is – yes, none other than serious globs of fat. I found it all rather tasty and enjoyed the meal. I am so thankful that it is not extremely spicy because they give you lots of food. So dad, this “fat” paragraph is for you!! I hope you enjoyed.
The men and women today asked more questions throughout the teaching time. I was so thankful for this because it gives me an indication of where they are at and what they are thinking. We were able to talk about the coming glory, the new creation, sovereignty of God, what sin looks like and how we can battle against sin and many times they had questions. So the teaching seemed to go well and I believe it is an answer to prayer. So please continue to pray because the Mongolian leaders need to hear God’s Word so they can bring it to their people.
Well, I am off to BD’s with Andrew and Liz, their family and a group of Canadians Chartwell Baptist Church in Toronto. BD’s is apparently an American chain that calls itself Mongolian BBQ. When Chinggis and his troops would go off to fight, they would fry their food on their shields. It is like our Mongolian Grill. Some of you joked if I went to Mongolia, would I go to the Mongolian Grill and the answer apparently is YES – tonight I am going to an American Chain like our Mongolian Grill in Mongolia. It is a strange world, is it not?
Monday, September 24, 2007
Moday In Mongolia
Monday morning we met at the church after a 10 minute walk from the apartment. It was a little chilly and windy so the sand and dirt would swirl around causing your eyes to fill up with sand every once and a while. We passed the infectious disease hospital on one side and empty construction lots on the other. We then turned the corner were numerous “gers” or tent houses were which led to the church.
The day began at 9:00 with singing. There is one song that I recognized – You Are My All In All. So while they stood and sang in Mongul, I stood and sang in English. 2 languages, one God, one faith. It was, I think, a glimpse of glory when people from all tribes, nations and languages (Rev 5) will gather before the throne of God and praise him together. I sometimes wonder if we will all be singing in our own languages but somehow be able to understand one another. Then we can look around and say – he is from Mongolia and she is from Canada – and we would be reminded that God saved His people from all tribes and languages.
After the singing, they introduced me and I only know this because I heard “David Robinson” and “Grace Bible Church”. I was then invited up but sat there because I did not understand that part at all. Someone then motioned for me to come up and I took that as the universal invitation to get off my seat and start.
I prayed for the men and women who came – there are around 20-24 – and I began teaching from the book of Genesis. One of the things I wanted to show is that you can preach through the Bible and a book like Genesis and it is not only truth but it is relevant, Biblical truth. So we talked a lot about context and how to take a message from the context of the Bible, the book and then the passage. I had one young man talk to me at lunch and he mentioned that there are different philosophies of doing ministry and preaching is not always necessary or relevant. I appreciated his honesty as he talked more about building relationships, etc. As I listened to him, while agreeing that “church” can be done a variety of ways in a variety of cultures, there is the absolute importance of preaching the Word of God faithfully and relevantly.
We finished at 4:00 and I walked back the apartment with Andrew. I had been inside all day so I mentioned to them that I would go for a walk and set out for about hour and a half to explore part of the city. One of the things about Mongolia is the traffic and the driving, In Canada there is a walk sign at the lights and the pedestrian has the right of way. In Mongolia, the walk sign really means nothing at all. Actually, I think it means: Good luck as you try to dodge the cars that are coming at you full speed. I successfully avoided traffic and at times found a crowd of people and followed them. The other interesting thing is how much people honk there horns. There is wall to wall traffic and nobody can move but people are honking their horns as if someone could move. All very interesting.
Now it is 8:15 and I have finished a stir fry meal – my second big meal of the day. Mongolians have their big meal at lunch and I was served a delicious bowl of soup (would compete with the proud Dutch tradition of soup making) and then a plate of rice and I called them hamburger balls but that is probably not what the Mongolians call them. I am tired and plan to head to bed after I email my family and see how they are doing.
Thanks for your prayers and also for looking after my family yesterday. It still takes a while to get used to the thought that I will be going to bed and you will be beginning your day – a day I have already completed! Anyway – have a good sleep – I mean a good day.
The day began at 9:00 with singing. There is one song that I recognized – You Are My All In All. So while they stood and sang in Mongul, I stood and sang in English. 2 languages, one God, one faith. It was, I think, a glimpse of glory when people from all tribes, nations and languages (Rev 5) will gather before the throne of God and praise him together. I sometimes wonder if we will all be singing in our own languages but somehow be able to understand one another. Then we can look around and say – he is from Mongolia and she is from Canada – and we would be reminded that God saved His people from all tribes and languages.
After the singing, they introduced me and I only know this because I heard “David Robinson” and “Grace Bible Church”. I was then invited up but sat there because I did not understand that part at all. Someone then motioned for me to come up and I took that as the universal invitation to get off my seat and start.
I prayed for the men and women who came – there are around 20-24 – and I began teaching from the book of Genesis. One of the things I wanted to show is that you can preach through the Bible and a book like Genesis and it is not only truth but it is relevant, Biblical truth. So we talked a lot about context and how to take a message from the context of the Bible, the book and then the passage. I had one young man talk to me at lunch and he mentioned that there are different philosophies of doing ministry and preaching is not always necessary or relevant. I appreciated his honesty as he talked more about building relationships, etc. As I listened to him, while agreeing that “church” can be done a variety of ways in a variety of cultures, there is the absolute importance of preaching the Word of God faithfully and relevantly.
We finished at 4:00 and I walked back the apartment with Andrew. I had been inside all day so I mentioned to them that I would go for a walk and set out for about hour and a half to explore part of the city. One of the things about Mongolia is the traffic and the driving, In Canada there is a walk sign at the lights and the pedestrian has the right of way. In Mongolia, the walk sign really means nothing at all. Actually, I think it means: Good luck as you try to dodge the cars that are coming at you full speed. I successfully avoided traffic and at times found a crowd of people and followed them. The other interesting thing is how much people honk there horns. There is wall to wall traffic and nobody can move but people are honking their horns as if someone could move. All very interesting.
Now it is 8:15 and I have finished a stir fry meal – my second big meal of the day. Mongolians have their big meal at lunch and I was served a delicious bowl of soup (would compete with the proud Dutch tradition of soup making) and then a plate of rice and I called them hamburger balls but that is probably not what the Mongolians call them. I am tired and plan to head to bed after I email my family and see how they are doing.
Thanks for your prayers and also for looking after my family yesterday. It still takes a while to get used to the thought that I will be going to bed and you will be beginning your day – a day I have already completed! Anyway – have a good sleep – I mean a good day.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
First Full Day in Mongolia
The trip from Seoul to Ulaan Baatar went very well. The flight took about 3 hours (a sprint compared to the first trip) and I landed comfortably around 10:30 at night. I am staying with a very nice New Zealand couple (Andrew and Liz – with three children) and Andrew was waiting to pick me up. After going through customs and picking up my luggage, I walked out and within 25 feet I was asked twice if I would be taking a taxi. Apparently they like foreigners.
I was in bed about 1:00 a.m. and slept until 7:30. This morning I went to a Mongolian church in the heart of the city – the political district. We arrived 20 minutes late and walked into very enthusiastic singing. They have a passion for celebrating the goodness of the Lord. After this, the pastor invited the S.S. children up and the congregation stretched forward their hands in prayer for the “next generation” of believers in Mongolia. There were a few testimonies of men who lived in the sewers who had been saved. One man’s kidneys were almost destroyed and the congregation prayed for healing.
A lady from Korea preached – the whole service was in Mongolian and Liz translated a bit for me. It is amazing to travel half way around the world and watch as people bring glory to God in their language.
Following the service, I walked back the two Kilo’s with Liz and we stopped at the Ghinggis Khaan Mausoleum - facing a big square (public place). We traveled through some markets to pick up lunch. Following lunch we went up one of the surrounding mountains and looked out over the city.
I just finished meeting with two ladies who are setting up the conference. There will be 24 pastors and the leaders will be coming from various parts of Mongolia. I will start to teach Genesis tomorrow morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. I did not know this but they have only had the entire Bible since 2000. Also, the OT translation is not the greatest and the Bible Society is seeking to complete it with a more accurate translation. They seem very enthusiastic to take the two courses and are looking forward to learning more from Scripture. There is and enthusiasm to learn the deeper truths of God’s Word.
Please pray as we begin the classes tomorrow – that God would be honoured and His Name would shine in all glory.
I was in bed about 1:00 a.m. and slept until 7:30. This morning I went to a Mongolian church in the heart of the city – the political district. We arrived 20 minutes late and walked into very enthusiastic singing. They have a passion for celebrating the goodness of the Lord. After this, the pastor invited the S.S. children up and the congregation stretched forward their hands in prayer for the “next generation” of believers in Mongolia. There were a few testimonies of men who lived in the sewers who had been saved. One man’s kidneys were almost destroyed and the congregation prayed for healing.
A lady from Korea preached – the whole service was in Mongolian and Liz translated a bit for me. It is amazing to travel half way around the world and watch as people bring glory to God in their language.
Following the service, I walked back the two Kilo’s with Liz and we stopped at the Ghinggis Khaan Mausoleum - facing a big square (public place). We traveled through some markets to pick up lunch. Following lunch we went up one of the surrounding mountains and looked out over the city.
I just finished meeting with two ladies who are setting up the conference. There will be 24 pastors and the leaders will be coming from various parts of Mongolia. I will start to teach Genesis tomorrow morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. I did not know this but they have only had the entire Bible since 2000. Also, the OT translation is not the greatest and the Bible Society is seeking to complete it with a more accurate translation. They seem very enthusiastic to take the two courses and are looking forward to learning more from Scripture. There is and enthusiasm to learn the deeper truths of God’s Word.
Please pray as we begin the classes tomorrow – that God would be honoured and His Name would shine in all glory.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
First Night In Seoul
I am just glad I was able to remember how to get to this part of my blog as the computer I am using is all Korean. Needless to say, I am a little rusty with the language!
Anyway, I flew out of Toronto at around 12:15 a.m. Friday morning and arrived in Seoul at 2:09 a.m. - yes exactly 2:09 a.m. because on a 13 hour flight you seem to remember details. The flight was really uneventful. As we took off over Toronto, I could see the massive city - and then darkness. Around 4-5 in the morning I opened my window (I had to do this discreetly because they asked you to shut them - but I just needed to know we were still in the air!!) and I could see the red sky in the horizon. At one point I could see we were flying over the clouds - a beautiful sight! But for most of the 13 hours, we just followed the darkness around the world.
Two things preoccupied my mind. One was every few hours I would think - how is it possible for this huge machine to stay in the air for so long? Amazing - and thankful!. The second- I talked to my dad before I left and he told me to remember Psalm 121 - the Lord does not slumber or sleep. That was a great comfort as I left my family knowing God will watch over my wife and children and ... the plane. What a comfort to know God ... and find our rest in Him.
So after two movies, three meals, 2 hours sleep, approx 5 glasses of orange juice, 5-7 trips to teh bathroom (it is more for the exercise really), and dozens of nodding off moments we landed safely in South Korea. I went to a hotel room (you can get them for 12 hours) and slept for a few hours. It is now 1.24 in the afternoon and I have my ticket ready to fly to Mongolia at 7:30 tonight - at least that is when I board the plane (there is a 12 hour time difference between Mongolia and Ontario). After I am done here, I hope to take a short nap and then I will have to leave my room.
Thank you for your prayers - God has provided abundantly. The only tragedy that has struck is that I had to surrender my MASSIVE (according to them) tube of Crest toothpaste - apparently that offends them and I had to put it in the no allowed items in TO. Sacrifices!!!
Please pray for the Mongolian men. As I walk around the airport, I wonder how many know the Lord Jesus Christ? It is quite a striking feeling to be the minority and to not understand the language and signs posted around the airport. And so as I head to Mongolia, my heart becomes burdened once again for the people of God and the need for the gospel to be proclaimed and spread. My prayer for the mission to Mongolia is 1 Thessalonians 3.10: Night and day we pray most eaarnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith. But if I have learned anything in the years the Lord has been working in my life, I imagine the brothers and sisters will bring an ample supply and show me what is lacking in my life and walk with the Lord. God seems to humble us in the most amazing ways so we may experience an abundance of grace.
Now I have to guess if it is the orange or blue button below that will post this update ...
Anyway, I flew out of Toronto at around 12:15 a.m. Friday morning and arrived in Seoul at 2:09 a.m. - yes exactly 2:09 a.m. because on a 13 hour flight you seem to remember details. The flight was really uneventful. As we took off over Toronto, I could see the massive city - and then darkness. Around 4-5 in the morning I opened my window (I had to do this discreetly because they asked you to shut them - but I just needed to know we were still in the air!!) and I could see the red sky in the horizon. At one point I could see we were flying over the clouds - a beautiful sight! But for most of the 13 hours, we just followed the darkness around the world.
Two things preoccupied my mind. One was every few hours I would think - how is it possible for this huge machine to stay in the air for so long? Amazing - and thankful!. The second- I talked to my dad before I left and he told me to remember Psalm 121 - the Lord does not slumber or sleep. That was a great comfort as I left my family knowing God will watch over my wife and children and ... the plane. What a comfort to know God ... and find our rest in Him.
So after two movies, three meals, 2 hours sleep, approx 5 glasses of orange juice, 5-7 trips to teh bathroom (it is more for the exercise really), and dozens of nodding off moments we landed safely in South Korea. I went to a hotel room (you can get them for 12 hours) and slept for a few hours. It is now 1.24 in the afternoon and I have my ticket ready to fly to Mongolia at 7:30 tonight - at least that is when I board the plane (there is a 12 hour time difference between Mongolia and Ontario). After I am done here, I hope to take a short nap and then I will have to leave my room.
Thank you for your prayers - God has provided abundantly. The only tragedy that has struck is that I had to surrender my MASSIVE (according to them) tube of Crest toothpaste - apparently that offends them and I had to put it in the no allowed items in TO. Sacrifices!!!
Please pray for the Mongolian men. As I walk around the airport, I wonder how many know the Lord Jesus Christ? It is quite a striking feeling to be the minority and to not understand the language and signs posted around the airport. And so as I head to Mongolia, my heart becomes burdened once again for the people of God and the need for the gospel to be proclaimed and spread. My prayer for the mission to Mongolia is 1 Thessalonians 3.10: Night and day we pray most eaarnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith. But if I have learned anything in the years the Lord has been working in my life, I imagine the brothers and sisters will bring an ample supply and show me what is lacking in my life and walk with the Lord. God seems to humble us in the most amazing ways so we may experience an abundance of grace.
Now I have to guess if it is the orange or blue button below that will post this update ...
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Teaching Trip to Mongolia
Purpose
As a church, we have the opportunity to teach the church leaders of Mongolia. Mongolia has recently been opened to the gospel and has a great number of new Christians but with very little theological training. Pastor David will take two weeks to train church leaders so they can go back to their churches and instruct their people.
Description
September 24-28, Pastor David will be teaching a course in Hermeneutics (Interpretation of Scripture) and October 1-5 he will be teaching Genesis. This will be for about 8 hours a day. There will also be opportunity to preach in the churches of Mongolia.
Place of Residence
Pastor David will be staying with a New Zealand couple who are missionaries in Mongolia
Flight Plans
September 20 Depart from Toronto 11.50 PM
September 22 Arrive at Seoul 2.50 AM
Depart Seoul 8.50 PM
Arrive Ulan Bator 10.35 PM
October 7 Depart Ulan Bator 12.20 AM
Arrive at Seoul 4.15 AM
Depart Seoul 9.05 PM
Arrive at Toronto 9.05 PM
Prayer
· Pray for the spread of the gospel in Mongolia. Teaching theology is simply telling people more about the God they love and what He has done. Pray that the people of Mongolia would understand how great God’s love is as they learn His Word.
· Pray for those who will minister at GBC. Roger Fellows will preach September 23; Noel Musket and Haniel Davy will preach September 30th; and Paul Martin will preach October 7th
· Pray for Pastor David’s family as he is away
· Pray for Pastor David as he teaches and preaches. Pray that he may effectively communicate the Word of God with passion and clarity.
· Pray for one another that we may all have opportunities to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.
As a church, we have the opportunity to teach the church leaders of Mongolia. Mongolia has recently been opened to the gospel and has a great number of new Christians but with very little theological training. Pastor David will take two weeks to train church leaders so they can go back to their churches and instruct their people.
Description
September 24-28, Pastor David will be teaching a course in Hermeneutics (Interpretation of Scripture) and October 1-5 he will be teaching Genesis. This will be for about 8 hours a day. There will also be opportunity to preach in the churches of Mongolia.
Place of Residence
Pastor David will be staying with a New Zealand couple who are missionaries in Mongolia
Flight Plans
September 20 Depart from Toronto 11.50 PM
September 22 Arrive at Seoul 2.50 AM
Depart Seoul 8.50 PM
Arrive Ulan Bator 10.35 PM
October 7 Depart Ulan Bator 12.20 AM
Arrive at Seoul 4.15 AM
Depart Seoul 9.05 PM
Arrive at Toronto 9.05 PM
Prayer
· Pray for the spread of the gospel in Mongolia. Teaching theology is simply telling people more about the God they love and what He has done. Pray that the people of Mongolia would understand how great God’s love is as they learn His Word.
· Pray for those who will minister at GBC. Roger Fellows will preach September 23; Noel Musket and Haniel Davy will preach September 30th; and Paul Martin will preach October 7th
· Pray for Pastor David’s family as he is away
· Pray for Pastor David as he teaches and preaches. Pray that he may effectively communicate the Word of God with passion and clarity.
· Pray for one another that we may all have opportunities to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Psalm 88 and Depression III
Imagine ending a conversation with a friend the way the Psalmist ends his conversation with the Lord: You have taken my companions and loved ones from me; the darkness is my closest friend. Would you let it happen? Or would you hang on until they at least paid lip service to some sort of hope?
A few thoughts about Christians going through dark times
1. Christian living is not like sitcoms - life is not wrapped up nice and neat. The psalmist ends with a messed up life that still hurts. The loneliness is palatable. The darkness is thick. The big questions of life have not been answered, the mysteries of life have not been settled. Yes, Christianity is messy. And that is OK because as you read throughout the Psalm because the psalmist is having a dialogue with God. Life may be messy and will be messy. That is part of living by faith in the sovereign ways of God.
2. We do not need to defend God. It is OK for people to walk away disillusioned with God without us trying to defend God until our throats are parched. We can let people walk away disappointed with God. God is able to defend Himself and provide for those who are disillusioned. We simply seek to speak - God will act.
3. There is a place for sullen times in the Christian life. If not, God would have solved the problem right there and then. He chose not to and in so doing, he affirmed that part of the path of a believer at times will be the shadow of the valley of death. In other words, do not always try to cheer people up or get them to praise God. Walk with them through the valley - weep with those who weep.
4. Balance, balance, balance. The majority of the psalms which deal with a trial or dark moments end with praise. The one walking through darkness must plead for faith so that as they walk out of the darkness, they do so with increased faith and praise on their lips and in their hearts.
5. I am sure Psalm 88 is not the last word as God cares intimately for His people. Genesis to Revelation tells the story of God's abundant grace overflowing into the life of the believer through Jesus. Psalm 88 is part of the story but not the complete story. That is the hope for all believers. We still have Psalms 89-150 to read and we know how it ends
Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens! Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness! Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals! Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD!
(Psa 150:1-6)
That is the place God faithfully brings His people because of His abounding love and mercy.
A few thoughts about Christians going through dark times
1. Christian living is not like sitcoms - life is not wrapped up nice and neat. The psalmist ends with a messed up life that still hurts. The loneliness is palatable. The darkness is thick. The big questions of life have not been answered, the mysteries of life have not been settled. Yes, Christianity is messy. And that is OK because as you read throughout the Psalm because the psalmist is having a dialogue with God. Life may be messy and will be messy. That is part of living by faith in the sovereign ways of God.
2. We do not need to defend God. It is OK for people to walk away disillusioned with God without us trying to defend God until our throats are parched. We can let people walk away disappointed with God. God is able to defend Himself and provide for those who are disillusioned. We simply seek to speak - God will act.
3. There is a place for sullen times in the Christian life. If not, God would have solved the problem right there and then. He chose not to and in so doing, he affirmed that part of the path of a believer at times will be the shadow of the valley of death. In other words, do not always try to cheer people up or get them to praise God. Walk with them through the valley - weep with those who weep.
4. Balance, balance, balance. The majority of the psalms which deal with a trial or dark moments end with praise. The one walking through darkness must plead for faith so that as they walk out of the darkness, they do so with increased faith and praise on their lips and in their hearts.
5. I am sure Psalm 88 is not the last word as God cares intimately for His people. Genesis to Revelation tells the story of God's abundant grace overflowing into the life of the believer through Jesus. Psalm 88 is part of the story but not the complete story. That is the hope for all believers. We still have Psalms 89-150 to read and we know how it ends
Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens! Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness! Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals! Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD!
(Psa 150:1-6)
That is the place God faithfully brings His people because of His abounding love and mercy.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Depression and Psalm 88 - II
We are going to look at the psalmist's description of his darkness but before we do, we mention two matters briefly.
First, in darkness or with depression, the forgotten element is often Psalm 88.1: O Lord, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you. It is often forgotten because at least in North America, we are so secularized and psychologized. I do not mean that secular counseling or psychology is all bad - in fact, on the balance it has done much good. But in the search for help, especially in the church, the cry to the God who saves is often left out of the picture. However, for the psalmist, it is the beginning point. This does not exclude the usefulness of medicine or other helpful techniques but it does say that the greatest help is missing if the cry to the God who saves is not in the heart or on the lips of the person in darkness.
Second, the psalmist describes his trouble. He articulates his darkness. This is why I think it is often helpful for a person who is depressed to journal - to write down his or her thoughts concerning their darkness. In fact, it almost seems to be a natural occurrence for someone in depression because it can be that they do not even understand the darkness and they just need to see if they can explain it to themselves. If you are with someone who is in darkness, ask them to describe to you their darkness. Don't interrupt. Just listen. And if they have left out verse 1, ask them if you can just pray for them to the God who saves.
How does the the psalmist describe his darkness?
First, in darkness or with depression, the forgotten element is often Psalm 88.1: O Lord, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you. It is often forgotten because at least in North America, we are so secularized and psychologized. I do not mean that secular counseling or psychology is all bad - in fact, on the balance it has done much good. But in the search for help, especially in the church, the cry to the God who saves is often left out of the picture. However, for the psalmist, it is the beginning point. This does not exclude the usefulness of medicine or other helpful techniques but it does say that the greatest help is missing if the cry to the God who saves is not in the heart or on the lips of the person in darkness.
Second, the psalmist describes his trouble. He articulates his darkness. This is why I think it is often helpful for a person who is depressed to journal - to write down his or her thoughts concerning their darkness. In fact, it almost seems to be a natural occurrence for someone in depression because it can be that they do not even understand the darkness and they just need to see if they can explain it to themselves. If you are with someone who is in darkness, ask them to describe to you their darkness. Don't interrupt. Just listen. And if they have left out verse 1, ask them if you can just pray for them to the God who saves.
How does the the psalmist describe his darkness?
- His soul is full of trouble: interesting that when he sees his inner self, he sees only trouble - it is full.
- Life draws close to the grave - hopelessness.
- Counted among those who go down to the pit - again, if we were to use today's language, we would put the psalmist on suicide watch.
- I am a man without strength - you will find with those in darkness, they are often tired - physically, emotionally, spiritually. The battle is overwhelming, their thoughts are unsettled and tiresome. They are often without strength so some will just sleep - not so much because they are tired but because they are too tired to deal with reality.
- I am set apart with the dead, like the slain who lie in the grave - you notice this a lot in the psalm - his fixation on death. Darkness is like death - something has died and they need life. A good description for some on depression - a part of me has died and I see no life.
- Whom you remember no more, who are cut off from your care - this is interesting as depressed people can often feel like no one cares for them. Someone may be intimately involved in their life, but still, no one cares
And that is only the beginning, the first 5 verses. There are 12 more to go. When dealing with someone who is in darkness, we may say - well, are you just exaggerating? Isn't there anything good in your life? Are you a half-empty glass kind-of person or what!! That becomes the importance of listening as mentioned above. When we read this psalm, do we say - just get over it? No, we listen to the psalmist and seek to enter their world taking their words as the reality in which they live.
If you suffer with depression, pick up a pen and begin to freely write about the darkness. If someone comes to you with depression, listen. Let them talk and express freely their thoughts and emotions.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Dealing With Depression: Psalm 88
Psalm 88 is a dark psalm. In many other psalms, the writer is going through troubles as he is surrounded by enemies or as he is dealing with his rebellion or sin. As the psalmist finishes, he usually ends with his eyes refocused on God and a word of trust and praise. Psalm 88 ends with the words You have taken my companions and loved ones from me; the darkness is my closest friend.
There is no further word of trust, no glance heavenward. The psalmist stares headlong into the life given him and his conclusion - darkness is my closest friend.
The first thing we notice about the Psalm is that it is a song. The inscription reads: A song. A psalm of the Sons of Korah. For the director of music. According to mahalath leanoth. A maskil of Heman the Ezrahite. Imagine standing up Sunday morning and singing this psalm with one another. But that is what this psalm is - a song set to music to be lead by the director of music.
What is the response of the church to be for those who suffer with depression? While depression often remains hidden in the church, as if the depression person must be either rebuked or pitied, Psalm 88 teaches us to sing to one another about darkness. While we love to praise God with songs of thanksgiving and salvation, there is a place to talk about the darkness of the soul. Depression/darkness is to be out in the open. The people of God are to address the issue.
That means two things:
First, those who struggle with depression must learn to talk about depression and second, the rest are to learn to listen to those who struggle with depression.
Sounds simple? Well, no because if someone struggles with depression, one of the hardest moments of their life is to talk about their darkness. Sure, they may talk but listen to receive words of hope? Or they may not even be at the point of talking. At times it may be like no one will understand or at other times it is like laying on the weight bench with too much weight on the bar - they just cannot lift this to a conversation. Darkness is a lonely place.
On the other hand, those who listen must learn to listen and not give out cliche, religious, empty answers. Or they must be able to patiently draw out a persons darkness, which takes time and trust. It is usually not time to be looking for sin or casting out demons - it is a time to listen, love and patiently suffer alongside of the one in darkness.
How does the church deal with those who struggle with depression? Psalm 88 tells us to speak about it, sing out loud the struggles with darkness. God's Word is profound here. What happens when we sing about it? First, God is found in the pciture. Second, the person living in darkness understands this will not be swept under the rug and the church is not filled with Christians who have it all together. And third, those who sing for the depressed person are reminded to love them, to have mercy on them and to above all remember them.
There is no further word of trust, no glance heavenward. The psalmist stares headlong into the life given him and his conclusion - darkness is my closest friend.
The first thing we notice about the Psalm is that it is a song. The inscription reads: A song. A psalm of the Sons of Korah. For the director of music. According to mahalath leanoth. A maskil of Heman the Ezrahite. Imagine standing up Sunday morning and singing this psalm with one another. But that is what this psalm is - a song set to music to be lead by the director of music.
What is the response of the church to be for those who suffer with depression? While depression often remains hidden in the church, as if the depression person must be either rebuked or pitied, Psalm 88 teaches us to sing to one another about darkness. While we love to praise God with songs of thanksgiving and salvation, there is a place to talk about the darkness of the soul. Depression/darkness is to be out in the open. The people of God are to address the issue.
That means two things:
First, those who struggle with depression must learn to talk about depression and second, the rest are to learn to listen to those who struggle with depression.
Sounds simple? Well, no because if someone struggles with depression, one of the hardest moments of their life is to talk about their darkness. Sure, they may talk but listen to receive words of hope? Or they may not even be at the point of talking. At times it may be like no one will understand or at other times it is like laying on the weight bench with too much weight on the bar - they just cannot lift this to a conversation. Darkness is a lonely place.
On the other hand, those who listen must learn to listen and not give out cliche, religious, empty answers. Or they must be able to patiently draw out a persons darkness, which takes time and trust. It is usually not time to be looking for sin or casting out demons - it is a time to listen, love and patiently suffer alongside of the one in darkness.
How does the church deal with those who struggle with depression? Psalm 88 tells us to speak about it, sing out loud the struggles with darkness. God's Word is profound here. What happens when we sing about it? First, God is found in the pciture. Second, the person living in darkness understands this will not be swept under the rug and the church is not filled with Christians who have it all together. And third, those who sing for the depressed person are reminded to love them, to have mercy on them and to above all remember them.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Choices Have Consequences
Deuteronomy 4.7-8: What other nations is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? And what other nations is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today.
Two people come immediately to mind as I read these verses in Deuteronomy. The first is a young man who was very confident in his Christian belief but when interesting, friendly and persuasive Mormons came calling, he rejected Scripture and was baptized a Mormon. He would come to visit and try to persuade me "really, Mormonism is like Christianity in so many ways." Ah, no. The other is a young woman who wanted to talk about her walk with Christ but then admitted that while her walk was not what it once was, she is doing fine. I left it up to her to call me and pray that she will.
Choices have consequences. That is one lesson God is teaching the people of Israel as they are about to enter the promised land under the direction of Joshua. What other god answers like the God of the Bible? Moses would go on to write that they are not to worship other gods which cannot see or hear or eat or smell. God point Moses - not a wise decision to follow stone gods. What will happen when this young woman calls to the world when she is 70 years old? Will the world answer with kindness?
The other lesson is in verse 8: God's ways are righteous and kind - even though the go contrary to the world. Again, Moses will go on to write that this lawgiver is merciful and he will not abandon or destroy you. Choices have consequences. Following God in the promised land brings blessing and life.
Choices have consequences. What happens when a young person leaves God's ways and embraces god-less life patterns? What happens when families begin to neglect spiritual disciplines and priorities? Choices lead to certain consequences. Who will you call on when life takes a turn? Do the gods of the age have answers that last beyond this life? Look at the gods you are serving and then watch others who serve the same gods - do they hear or answer or provide life as the years pass? What happens when beauty fades or when wealth decreases? Will your doctor provide ageless beauty or will your bank or boss call you up and grant you money?
I look at certain choices which bring immediate pleasure but long term pain. Our text tells us God not only brings blessing but it is long term blessing. Consider your choices - they have consequences.
Two people come immediately to mind as I read these verses in Deuteronomy. The first is a young man who was very confident in his Christian belief but when interesting, friendly and persuasive Mormons came calling, he rejected Scripture and was baptized a Mormon. He would come to visit and try to persuade me "really, Mormonism is like Christianity in so many ways." Ah, no. The other is a young woman who wanted to talk about her walk with Christ but then admitted that while her walk was not what it once was, she is doing fine. I left it up to her to call me and pray that she will.
Choices have consequences. That is one lesson God is teaching the people of Israel as they are about to enter the promised land under the direction of Joshua. What other god answers like the God of the Bible? Moses would go on to write that they are not to worship other gods which cannot see or hear or eat or smell. God point Moses - not a wise decision to follow stone gods. What will happen when this young woman calls to the world when she is 70 years old? Will the world answer with kindness?
The other lesson is in verse 8: God's ways are righteous and kind - even though the go contrary to the world. Again, Moses will go on to write that this lawgiver is merciful and he will not abandon or destroy you. Choices have consequences. Following God in the promised land brings blessing and life.
Choices have consequences. What happens when a young person leaves God's ways and embraces god-less life patterns? What happens when families begin to neglect spiritual disciplines and priorities? Choices lead to certain consequences. Who will you call on when life takes a turn? Do the gods of the age have answers that last beyond this life? Look at the gods you are serving and then watch others who serve the same gods - do they hear or answer or provide life as the years pass? What happens when beauty fades or when wealth decreases? Will your doctor provide ageless beauty or will your bank or boss call you up and grant you money?
I look at certain choices which bring immediate pleasure but long term pain. Our text tells us God not only brings blessing but it is long term blessing. Consider your choices - they have consequences.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
The Path to Peace
Psalm 34.12-14: Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
Peaceful relationships do not just happen. In other words, peace is not an easy process but must instead be pursued. David tells us in Psalm 34 how to seek peace in relationships.
First, it comes when we fear God (Psalm 34.11). The foundation of peace is the fear of God, that is the standing in awe and living in reverent fear of our holy God. The fear of God is to live within the bounds God has set and seek to love Him and glorify Him above all.
Second, peace happens in the realm of controlling your tongue, fleeing from evil and doing good. Peace in a marriage will not happen when there are loose and angry tongues. Do you want to know the pathway to peace? Turn from evil and commit yourself to doing good. Simple, profound and highly practical.
Third, peace takes place when pursued. You can see God bending to speak into the human ear as He says, Do not give up. Do not give up - seek peace and pursue it. Too often in relationships we take the easy way out and give up on peace. We run from our problems and we do not humble ourselves before God. In a society where every problem is solved within a half hour sitcom, we can not seem to grasp that peace sought in the fear of God is attainable.
This is all brought together when we look at how Christ pursued peace. He came from heaven to sinners and he glorfied God as he died for His own. Amazing how God loved the unlovable and brought peace between them and God. As you see Jesus living his life and then dying on the cross, you see Jesus as he pursued peace. He did not give up, rather he said in the garden Not my will but yours be done.
Seek peace. Pusue peace. And remember how Jesus reconciled you with God your Father.
Peaceful relationships do not just happen. In other words, peace is not an easy process but must instead be pursued. David tells us in Psalm 34 how to seek peace in relationships.
First, it comes when we fear God (Psalm 34.11). The foundation of peace is the fear of God, that is the standing in awe and living in reverent fear of our holy God. The fear of God is to live within the bounds God has set and seek to love Him and glorify Him above all.
Second, peace happens in the realm of controlling your tongue, fleeing from evil and doing good. Peace in a marriage will not happen when there are loose and angry tongues. Do you want to know the pathway to peace? Turn from evil and commit yourself to doing good. Simple, profound and highly practical.
Third, peace takes place when pursued. You can see God bending to speak into the human ear as He says, Do not give up. Do not give up - seek peace and pursue it. Too often in relationships we take the easy way out and give up on peace. We run from our problems and we do not humble ourselves before God. In a society where every problem is solved within a half hour sitcom, we can not seem to grasp that peace sought in the fear of God is attainable.
This is all brought together when we look at how Christ pursued peace. He came from heaven to sinners and he glorfied God as he died for His own. Amazing how God loved the unlovable and brought peace between them and God. As you see Jesus living his life and then dying on the cross, you see Jesus as he pursued peace. He did not give up, rather he said in the garden Not my will but yours be done.
Seek peace. Pusue peace. And remember how Jesus reconciled you with God your Father.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Boundary Blessings
Proverbs 29.18: Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraints; but blessed is he who keeps the law.
Proverbs goes contrary to worldly wisdom. We are told today that the fewer restraints and the greater freedom we have, the happier we will be. "No one can tell me what to do" is the mantra of our society and the reason is people have rejected revelation, ultimately God's Word.
The opposite is found when we keep God's Word we find blessing. In other words, living within the boundaries of God's Word, one will find happiness and true life.
2 thoughts as I look at this passage.
First, a task and privilege of a Christian is not just to tell this to the next generation or the world around us but to live this truth. When we speak to our children about Christianity or when we live in front of our neighbours, are they able to see that the boundaries of God's Word are pleasant? It is no use saying we love God but complain about all the fun the world is having. Casting off restraints leads to confusion and hurt, ultimately death; living in the presence of God's boundaries brings blessings. Does this show in your life?
Second we need to thank God for boundaries. My wife and I were talking to a nurse the other day and she told us how many 12, 13, 14 year old girls are coming into the hospital with multiple STD's. There are no restraints and therefore, really, no blessing. The greatest blessing to happen in these young girl's lives would be for someone to come and show them boundaries. And this can happen in so many areas of life. So thank God for boundaries because they not only protect us but they enhance our standard of living.
Proverbs goes contrary to worldly wisdom. We are told today that the fewer restraints and the greater freedom we have, the happier we will be. "No one can tell me what to do" is the mantra of our society and the reason is people have rejected revelation, ultimately God's Word.
The opposite is found when we keep God's Word we find blessing. In other words, living within the boundaries of God's Word, one will find happiness and true life.
2 thoughts as I look at this passage.
First, a task and privilege of a Christian is not just to tell this to the next generation or the world around us but to live this truth. When we speak to our children about Christianity or when we live in front of our neighbours, are they able to see that the boundaries of God's Word are pleasant? It is no use saying we love God but complain about all the fun the world is having. Casting off restraints leads to confusion and hurt, ultimately death; living in the presence of God's boundaries brings blessings. Does this show in your life?
Second we need to thank God for boundaries. My wife and I were talking to a nurse the other day and she told us how many 12, 13, 14 year old girls are coming into the hospital with multiple STD's. There are no restraints and therefore, really, no blessing. The greatest blessing to happen in these young girl's lives would be for someone to come and show them boundaries. And this can happen in so many areas of life. So thank God for boundaries because they not only protect us but they enhance our standard of living.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
How Do We Battle Sin?
Genesis 2.16-17: And the Lord God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
Genesis 3.1: [The serpent - Satan] said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
We can learn about the subtlety of sin as we look at the first temptation. Notice God's word to Adam contain 3 parts: 1. The blessing or the goodness of God - you are free to eat from any tree in the garden. 2. The command - you must not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. 3. The warning of judgment - for when you eat of it you will surely die.
When Satan tempts Eve, he leaves out the blessing and the judgment. Instead, he simply asks Eve, did God really say? In leaving out the goodness of God, Satan's temptation causes Eve to question the love of God and in leaving out the judgment of God, Satan causes Eve to downplay the punishment of God.
We know that Eve was duped because we read her answer: The woman said to the serpent, "We may eat from the trees in the garden, but God did say, 'You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die." Notice what is missing are words like every and surely. In other words, Eve begins to doubt the goodness of God - yes, God will let us eat from the trees but not every tree and the judgment of God - we will die but will we surely die?
When we are tempted today, the same process happens:
1. We begin to doubt the love of God. We begin to look at sin as something good that God withholds or as something which will satisfy - even though God has told us it will not.
2. We lower the fear of judgment. God is holy but surely die? He will show mercy or accept me, after all I'm basically a good person.
How do we battle sin? Ask Am I beginning to doubt the love of God within His boundaries? and Am I beginning to downplay the judgment of God? Sin is subtle and will attack God's love and wrath/punishment of sin. Knowing with confidence that God is both love and holy will help us in our battle against sin.
Genesis 3.1: [The serpent - Satan] said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
We can learn about the subtlety of sin as we look at the first temptation. Notice God's word to Adam contain 3 parts: 1. The blessing or the goodness of God - you are free to eat from any tree in the garden. 2. The command - you must not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. 3. The warning of judgment - for when you eat of it you will surely die.
When Satan tempts Eve, he leaves out the blessing and the judgment. Instead, he simply asks Eve, did God really say? In leaving out the goodness of God, Satan's temptation causes Eve to question the love of God and in leaving out the judgment of God, Satan causes Eve to downplay the punishment of God.
We know that Eve was duped because we read her answer: The woman said to the serpent, "We may eat from the trees in the garden, but God did say, 'You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die." Notice what is missing are words like every and surely. In other words, Eve begins to doubt the goodness of God - yes, God will let us eat from the trees but not every tree and the judgment of God - we will die but will we surely die?
When we are tempted today, the same process happens:
1. We begin to doubt the love of God. We begin to look at sin as something good that God withholds or as something which will satisfy - even though God has told us it will not.
2. We lower the fear of judgment. God is holy but surely die? He will show mercy or accept me, after all I'm basically a good person.
How do we battle sin? Ask Am I beginning to doubt the love of God within His boundaries? and Am I beginning to downplay the judgment of God? Sin is subtle and will attack God's love and wrath/punishment of sin. Knowing with confidence that God is both love and holy will help us in our battle against sin.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
A Sad Phone Call
I came into my study this morning and collected my calls. I had one message from a lady who said:
Yeah I was just wondering if I could speak to Mr. Christ. Mr. Jesus Christ. But aahh, I guess he's not hear right now - I guess, I guess Mr. Christ doesn't love me enough to talk to me - cause I've been praying for like 10 years and he hasn't made my wishes come true at all. So God is a bad man.
Click. No name. No number.
As I reflect on this call, sadness is probably my first reaction: sad as the lies of Satan have not made her life a happy one; sad as Jesus freely offers life to all who come to him - eternal life; sad that her conclusion is God is a bad man when her very breath is a gift from the one she calls "bad".
However, the call does give insight into the hearts of people today - Jesus or God exists to make them happy. When Jesus does not listen and when life does not add up, then God is a "bad guy."
As you are reading this blog, pray for "Jane Doe". Pray that she would be struck with the gospel, the love of God and the power of the cross. Pray that those around you would know Christ and His promises of life.
Yeah I was just wondering if I could speak to Mr. Christ. Mr. Jesus Christ. But aahh, I guess he's not hear right now - I guess, I guess Mr. Christ doesn't love me enough to talk to me - cause I've been praying for like 10 years and he hasn't made my wishes come true at all. So God is a bad man.
Click. No name. No number.
As I reflect on this call, sadness is probably my first reaction: sad as the lies of Satan have not made her life a happy one; sad as Jesus freely offers life to all who come to him - eternal life; sad that her conclusion is God is a bad man when her very breath is a gift from the one she calls "bad".
However, the call does give insight into the hearts of people today - Jesus or God exists to make them happy. When Jesus does not listen and when life does not add up, then God is a "bad guy."
As you are reading this blog, pray for "Jane Doe". Pray that she would be struck with the gospel, the love of God and the power of the cross. Pray that those around you would know Christ and His promises of life.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Psalm 62 - Dealing with Worry
My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. (Psalm 62.1-2)
The Bible puts words in our mouths that seem to describe exactly what we are experiencing. Today we may use words like worried or anxious, troubled or restless. When we minister to others or when we are going through such times ourselves, speaking as the Bible speaks helps us understand what is going on inside of us and how to deal with those moments of "unrest". David describes his worry as "not finding rest in God alone" and as being "shaken".
What is important is that these words include God in the process of dealing with worry and unrest. Anxiety and worry are never just an inner problem - the Psalmist David brings his soul before God. This is a good lesson as we live in a godless society and try to deal with issues through day-timers and stress suppressing measures. David first starts with an acknowledgement of his soul in the presence of God. If there is worry or anxiety, if his fortress is about to be shaken, then he will bring the matter into the presence of God.
Then, as you read Psalm 62, David spends time bringing his "unrest" before God. He brings his unrest before God and then finally leaves it in the presence of God.
How do we leave our worry in the presence of God? David shows us. The final two verses of Psalm 62 read: One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: that you O God are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.
Do you see what David did? He left it before God not in some mysterious manner. He simply confessed who God is in relation to him. In the midst of unrest and a shaken fortress, David humbles himself before God and confesses God's power and love - the twin towers of peace and rest. David is then ready to leave his worries, his unrest in God's power and love - his fortress will not be shaken.
Dealing with worry is best dealt with in the presence of God and it is best dealt with when we bring Biblical truths to mind. We need to know God is strong, stronger than our issues or our worries and we need to know God's love is overwhelming and intimate.
Those times when our fortress is shaken the most, are probably times when God's character is far from our thoughts and souls. Bringing God's strength and love into our souls brings worries into perspective and the tough issues of life into God's care.
The Bible puts words in our mouths that seem to describe exactly what we are experiencing. Today we may use words like worried or anxious, troubled or restless. When we minister to others or when we are going through such times ourselves, speaking as the Bible speaks helps us understand what is going on inside of us and how to deal with those moments of "unrest". David describes his worry as "not finding rest in God alone" and as being "shaken".
What is important is that these words include God in the process of dealing with worry and unrest. Anxiety and worry are never just an inner problem - the Psalmist David brings his soul before God. This is a good lesson as we live in a godless society and try to deal with issues through day-timers and stress suppressing measures. David first starts with an acknowledgement of his soul in the presence of God. If there is worry or anxiety, if his fortress is about to be shaken, then he will bring the matter into the presence of God.
Then, as you read Psalm 62, David spends time bringing his "unrest" before God. He brings his unrest before God and then finally leaves it in the presence of God.
How do we leave our worry in the presence of God? David shows us. The final two verses of Psalm 62 read: One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: that you O God are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.
Do you see what David did? He left it before God not in some mysterious manner. He simply confessed who God is in relation to him. In the midst of unrest and a shaken fortress, David humbles himself before God and confesses God's power and love - the twin towers of peace and rest. David is then ready to leave his worries, his unrest in God's power and love - his fortress will not be shaken.
Dealing with worry is best dealt with in the presence of God and it is best dealt with when we bring Biblical truths to mind. We need to know God is strong, stronger than our issues or our worries and we need to know God's love is overwhelming and intimate.
Those times when our fortress is shaken the most, are probably times when God's character is far from our thoughts and souls. Bringing God's strength and love into our souls brings worries into perspective and the tough issues of life into God's care.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
God Cannot Win
An issue people have with God is that He does not prevent death. How could God be good and let all of these things happen - a friend died in a car accident, a mom is dying of cancer, thousands are being slaughtered by civil war, earthquakes and the list continues. And God just stands by and let's it all happen.
Here is the quandary and how God cannot win. Another issue people have with God is His sovereignty. People refuse to believe God is sovereign over all areas of life - they cry out "human freedom". Free will demands that there are pockets where God is not allowed to touch - God cannot touch salvation or day to day activity. After all, it makes us robots, right?
So on one hand people complain that God is not involved and on the other hand they complain when He is involved. God cannot win in the sinful human heart because the bottom line issue is that man wants to rule. Man sits on the throne demanding God to stop all evil or sin but have nothing to do with their lives - they are free, after all.
Sin is confusing. The sinful heart demands action from God one moment and the next demands freedom. And so in their confusion, sinful man rebels against God in his sad and pitiful manner.
Here is the quandary and how God cannot win. Another issue people have with God is His sovereignty. People refuse to believe God is sovereign over all areas of life - they cry out "human freedom". Free will demands that there are pockets where God is not allowed to touch - God cannot touch salvation or day to day activity. After all, it makes us robots, right?
So on one hand people complain that God is not involved and on the other hand they complain when He is involved. God cannot win in the sinful human heart because the bottom line issue is that man wants to rule. Man sits on the throne demanding God to stop all evil or sin but have nothing to do with their lives - they are free, after all.
Sin is confusing. The sinful heart demands action from God one moment and the next demands freedom. And so in their confusion, sinful man rebels against God in his sad and pitiful manner.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Paul Wept as Jesus Wept
Philippians 3.17-18: Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.
As Paul looked at the world - tears welled up in his eyes. He urged the believers to live according to the pattern of his example. The very first thing he talks about are his tears as he observes the lostness of the world.
Those who are lost are not spoken of in neutral terms - they are enemies of the cross of Christ. Their life stands opposed to God - as nice as they may be - they are enemies. And so Paul weeps.
Jesus wept. Jesus wept as the crowds gathered and he knew their hearts of rebellion.
Does the church weep today? Are we to busy compromising the gospel? Pastors and people in churches today try to downplay the "enemy", welcoming as many people in as Christians as is possible - even though they deny all sorts of essential, fundamental doctrines. Are we busy pursuing the world so there is no time for tears? What real difference is there between an evangelical Christian today and the world? One hour on a Sunday morning?
We ask - where do we begin? How do I follow the example of Paul and Christ? Tears. Weeping. This allows us to understand grace (we have been saved by Christ alone) and evangelism (we must be praying and seeking for souls to be saved). Why? In the following verses, Paul talks about the second coming of Jesus. Jesus will come again and judge all His enemies.
Jesus is coming and there is an eternity to follow either in heaven or hell. For those who are headed to hell without Christ - they need our tears which leads to prayer, leading to action and love and grace and mercy.
As Paul looked at the world - tears welled up in his eyes. He urged the believers to live according to the pattern of his example. The very first thing he talks about are his tears as he observes the lostness of the world.
Those who are lost are not spoken of in neutral terms - they are enemies of the cross of Christ. Their life stands opposed to God - as nice as they may be - they are enemies. And so Paul weeps.
Jesus wept. Jesus wept as the crowds gathered and he knew their hearts of rebellion.
Does the church weep today? Are we to busy compromising the gospel? Pastors and people in churches today try to downplay the "enemy", welcoming as many people in as Christians as is possible - even though they deny all sorts of essential, fundamental doctrines. Are we busy pursuing the world so there is no time for tears? What real difference is there between an evangelical Christian today and the world? One hour on a Sunday morning?
We ask - where do we begin? How do I follow the example of Paul and Christ? Tears. Weeping. This allows us to understand grace (we have been saved by Christ alone) and evangelism (we must be praying and seeking for souls to be saved). Why? In the following verses, Paul talks about the second coming of Jesus. Jesus will come again and judge all His enemies.
Jesus is coming and there is an eternity to follow either in heaven or hell. For those who are headed to hell without Christ - they need our tears which leads to prayer, leading to action and love and grace and mercy.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Willingness of Jesus
In John 18 we read of the arrest of Jesus. One of the striking features of the soldiers coming into the garden to arrest Jesus is the willingness of Jesus to go to the cross.
First, it is very clear that Jesus knew he was going to die for sinners and the pain and suffering that would be involved. John 12.27 we read: Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!
When Jesus was arrested, we read that he did not run or hide - he went out to meet Judas and his gang of thugs. Jesus knew Judas would betray him and we read that after Jesus had finished praying, he went to the exact spot Judas knew he and his disciples could be found. We read in verse 4: Jesus, knowing what was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, Who is it that you want? When Jesus reveals himself, they all fell to the ground (so much for the torches, lanterns and weapons they were carrying). And still, Jesus did not run - he did not hide.
Simon Peter brings out his sword and cuts off an ear, when Jesus commands Peter: Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me. Jesus' statement is striking. In the midst of the sword incident, it is almost as if Peter is offering Jesus a way out - we can fight them Jesus and you can go free. But Jesus' response is clear - I will go and bear my Father's cup - I will suffer your wrath.
What a joy for the believer - Jesus, willingly going to the cross for his people. His love so great, His grace so overflowing, and His forgiveness so complete - he went to face human humiliation and torture and God's wrath - so we may have life.
The message: the willingness of Jesus cries out to His people you are loved with an everlasting love. Rest in Him - and you will find peace and stillness in His presence.
First, it is very clear that Jesus knew he was going to die for sinners and the pain and suffering that would be involved. John 12.27 we read: Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!
When Jesus was arrested, we read that he did not run or hide - he went out to meet Judas and his gang of thugs. Jesus knew Judas would betray him and we read that after Jesus had finished praying, he went to the exact spot Judas knew he and his disciples could be found. We read in verse 4: Jesus, knowing what was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, Who is it that you want? When Jesus reveals himself, they all fell to the ground (so much for the torches, lanterns and weapons they were carrying). And still, Jesus did not run - he did not hide.
Simon Peter brings out his sword and cuts off an ear, when Jesus commands Peter: Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me. Jesus' statement is striking. In the midst of the sword incident, it is almost as if Peter is offering Jesus a way out - we can fight them Jesus and you can go free. But Jesus' response is clear - I will go and bear my Father's cup - I will suffer your wrath.
What a joy for the believer - Jesus, willingly going to the cross for his people. His love so great, His grace so overflowing, and His forgiveness so complete - he went to face human humiliation and torture and God's wrath - so we may have life.
The message: the willingness of Jesus cries out to His people you are loved with an everlasting love. Rest in Him - and you will find peace and stillness in His presence.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Christian Forbes
A recent article reported that there are now 946 billionaires, worth a total of 3.5 trillion - up from 793 last year. The top billionaire is Bill Gates with $56 bn followed by Warren Buffet at $52 bn. Of particular interest to where some of my money has gone, Ingvar Kamprad, the owner of Ikea, sits in his comfortable chair with $33bn.
Now, I cannot imagine having even 1 billion dollars, let alone 56 of them. What is interesting, however, is that it is searchable - we can know the dollar value and say - this person has this many billion and this person has this many billion. We can search their riches.
When Paul is explaining God's amazing work through Jesus and his ministry in the book of Ephesians, he writes: Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ (3.8)
The gift of Christ - his life, sacrifice, death and life - and his free offer of life for all who come to him, repent of their sin and believe in him - this gift is unsearchable. We cannot begin to even put a figure on how valuable Christ and his gift of life is for those who have come to him.
I conclude two things: 1. to know Christ and have his eternal gift of life is the greatest gift of all because the riches are unsearchable. 2. to preach Christ is the greatest message - though preachers may be the least of all God's people. Whether you know Christ or you know Christ and preach Christ, we have so much to be thankful for in this great gift.
Your name may never make it in Forbes but if it is written int he book of life, we have now and evermore the unsearchable riches of Christ to enjoy.
Now, I cannot imagine having even 1 billion dollars, let alone 56 of them. What is interesting, however, is that it is searchable - we can know the dollar value and say - this person has this many billion and this person has this many billion. We can search their riches.
When Paul is explaining God's amazing work through Jesus and his ministry in the book of Ephesians, he writes: Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ (3.8)
The gift of Christ - his life, sacrifice, death and life - and his free offer of life for all who come to him, repent of their sin and believe in him - this gift is unsearchable. We cannot begin to even put a figure on how valuable Christ and his gift of life is for those who have come to him.
I conclude two things: 1. to know Christ and have his eternal gift of life is the greatest gift of all because the riches are unsearchable. 2. to preach Christ is the greatest message - though preachers may be the least of all God's people. Whether you know Christ or you know Christ and preach Christ, we have so much to be thankful for in this great gift.
Your name may never make it in Forbes but if it is written int he book of life, we have now and evermore the unsearchable riches of Christ to enjoy.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Gaining Wisdom - Crying Need for the Church
To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding. Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. (Proverbs 8.4-6)
It is striking how freely godly wisdom is offered to all God's people in the Bible. In Proverbs 8 the simple and foolish are taken aside and spoken to with opportunities like gain wisdom or gain understanding.
But in order to gain wisdom and understanding, we must listen to and study God's Word. How desperately needed this ministry of wisdom is among God's people! Would that God's people saturate themselves with God's Word and then, with humility, love and gentleness, patiently instruct one another. Sadly, however, we live in a culture of quick fixes, pithy sayings and "do as I say not as I do" teachers. We also live in a day of professionalism where when it comes time to help the people of God, we send them to less than Christian counselors.
What did the early church do when a brother or sister was in need of counsel? The older would counsel the younger. Or the wise would be sought out in the church. I am not saying there is not a place for professionals; however, I am saying while professionals have their place, the people of God need to fill themselves with Scripture and be ready to help one another.
Let's take the example of a depressed housewife. What is today's solution? Professional counseling! But what about a godly woman coming into the house - listening, loving and then quietly ministering and mentoring the struggling woman. This godly woman has spent years placing herself and her life under Scripture so that when she steps into this ladies life, she is ready to speak discerning words.
Do you want to be a counselor? Do you want worthy things to say? Study Scripture and then pray for the presence of the Spirit to open doors to quietly come alongside and speak to those who are hurting or need direction. A church with Bible-filled people expressing godly truths in quiet love would be a ministry where God's people find life.
It is striking how freely godly wisdom is offered to all God's people in the Bible. In Proverbs 8 the simple and foolish are taken aside and spoken to with opportunities like gain wisdom or gain understanding.
But in order to gain wisdom and understanding, we must listen to and study God's Word. How desperately needed this ministry of wisdom is among God's people! Would that God's people saturate themselves with God's Word and then, with humility, love and gentleness, patiently instruct one another. Sadly, however, we live in a culture of quick fixes, pithy sayings and "do as I say not as I do" teachers. We also live in a day of professionalism where when it comes time to help the people of God, we send them to less than Christian counselors.
What did the early church do when a brother or sister was in need of counsel? The older would counsel the younger. Or the wise would be sought out in the church. I am not saying there is not a place for professionals; however, I am saying while professionals have their place, the people of God need to fill themselves with Scripture and be ready to help one another.
Let's take the example of a depressed housewife. What is today's solution? Professional counseling! But what about a godly woman coming into the house - listening, loving and then quietly ministering and mentoring the struggling woman. This godly woman has spent years placing herself and her life under Scripture so that when she steps into this ladies life, she is ready to speak discerning words.
Do you want to be a counselor? Do you want worthy things to say? Study Scripture and then pray for the presence of the Spirit to open doors to quietly come alongside and speak to those who are hurting or need direction. A church with Bible-filled people expressing godly truths in quiet love would be a ministry where God's people find life.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Election and Human Responsiblity
John 6.37: All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.
Jesus does not try to make sense or explain two very different teachings. Election and human responsibility in salvation sit comfortably side by side in the world of Jesus.
One truth is that God chooses all who come to Him - all that the Father gives me will come to me. What else could Jesus be saying other than the Father chooses those who come to Him and in response, they will come? John says something similar in 1 John 4.10: This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice (propitiation) for our sins.
The second truth is we are to come to Jesus - whoever comes to me I will never drive away. Jesus never says - wait until you know if you have been called. Instead he invites all to come to him (earlier he has explained this is done through faith - John 6.12) and he will not send any away. What a great welcome and promise to come to him!
Election and human responsibility stand side by side is the words of Jesus. God sending (election) is incomplete without man coming (human responsibility) and man coming (human responsibility) will never take place without God sending (election). Jesus does not explain but simply allows us to embrace these two Biblical truths.
Now we may say, I want nothing to do with election. Salvation, in its final form, is my "sovereign" choice. But if we move further down in the passage, we once again see divine work and human responsibility standing side by side.
Divine work is shown in John 12.39: And it is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up on that last day. Who would deny this great truth of God's sovereign protection? Imagine the comfort ripped out of the hearts of believers if we say - well, you know, God doesn't have the right to be that "sovereign" in my life - it is my choice. No - God will keep his people.
But following this verse is human responsibility: For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. Amazing. In order to be kept, we must believe. We must look to Jesus so we may have everlasting life.
God's sovereign grace and keeping stand alongside human responsibility - they are neither separated nor explained by Jesus. Rather, they are simply stated so God may receive all the glory and we may rejoice in the promises of everlasting life and protection offered by Jesus.
Jesus does not try to make sense or explain two very different teachings. Election and human responsibility in salvation sit comfortably side by side in the world of Jesus.
One truth is that God chooses all who come to Him - all that the Father gives me will come to me. What else could Jesus be saying other than the Father chooses those who come to Him and in response, they will come? John says something similar in 1 John 4.10: This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice (propitiation) for our sins.
The second truth is we are to come to Jesus - whoever comes to me I will never drive away. Jesus never says - wait until you know if you have been called. Instead he invites all to come to him (earlier he has explained this is done through faith - John 6.12) and he will not send any away. What a great welcome and promise to come to him!
Election and human responsibility stand side by side is the words of Jesus. God sending (election) is incomplete without man coming (human responsibility) and man coming (human responsibility) will never take place without God sending (election). Jesus does not explain but simply allows us to embrace these two Biblical truths.
Now we may say, I want nothing to do with election. Salvation, in its final form, is my "sovereign" choice. But if we move further down in the passage, we once again see divine work and human responsibility standing side by side.
Divine work is shown in John 12.39: And it is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up on that last day. Who would deny this great truth of God's sovereign protection? Imagine the comfort ripped out of the hearts of believers if we say - well, you know, God doesn't have the right to be that "sovereign" in my life - it is my choice. No - God will keep his people.
But following this verse is human responsibility: For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. Amazing. In order to be kept, we must believe. We must look to Jesus so we may have everlasting life.
God's sovereign grace and keeping stand alongside human responsibility - they are neither separated nor explained by Jesus. Rather, they are simply stated so God may receive all the glory and we may rejoice in the promises of everlasting life and protection offered by Jesus.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Job's Other Comforters
An aspect of the story of Job we often call to mind is Job's three friends. It can be said if those are friends, who needs enemies. Throughout the book, as Job has suffered loss after loss, his three friends gather and tell Job that there must be some wickedness lurching below the surface to have God's wrath out poured with such venom. God of course rebukes the three friends at the end of the book and Job must pray for them.
What is interesting, however, is that after Job had offered sacrifices for his three friends, others came to comfort him. We read in Job 42.11: All his brothers and sisters and everyone who had known him before came and ate with him in his house. They comforted and consoled him over the trouble the Lord had brought upon him, and each one gave him a piece of silver and a gold ring.
Yes, Job did go through tremendous suffering but after a while, God sent comfort through friends and family. What a blessing that must have been for Job, especially after what he had gone through with Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar.
This does tell us something about what to expect. Yes, you will have the "three friends" who come and offer little comfort but it is also true that God provides overwhelming comfort for his people as others come along and minister comfort and consolation.
What do you do if a Bildad comes along? Or an Eliphaz? Well, where did God bring Job? He brought Job to the dust. Job had to commit himself into God's hands. When the "comfortless" friends come to visit, thank God that they at least drive you to the powerful and comforting arms of God.
What is interesting, however, is that after Job had offered sacrifices for his three friends, others came to comfort him. We read in Job 42.11: All his brothers and sisters and everyone who had known him before came and ate with him in his house. They comforted and consoled him over the trouble the Lord had brought upon him, and each one gave him a piece of silver and a gold ring.
Yes, Job did go through tremendous suffering but after a while, God sent comfort through friends and family. What a blessing that must have been for Job, especially after what he had gone through with Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar.
This does tell us something about what to expect. Yes, you will have the "three friends" who come and offer little comfort but it is also true that God provides overwhelming comfort for his people as others come along and minister comfort and consolation.
What do you do if a Bildad comes along? Or an Eliphaz? Well, where did God bring Job? He brought Job to the dust. Job had to commit himself into God's hands. When the "comfortless" friends come to visit, thank God that they at least drive you to the powerful and comforting arms of God.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Feeling Overwhelmed?
There is a rather strange story Jesus tells in Luke 17. A servant has spent the whole day working - plowing the ground and looking after the sheep - and now it is time to go home. He is tired and exhausted but is not invited to sit down and eat with the master. It is not yet time. Rather the master says to the servant, "Prepare my meal; get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink." No comfortable armchair for this servant!
Jesus is still not done with the story. We might expect a bonus in our pay or at least a word of thanks. But as Jesus tells the story, he asks the question - would he thank the servant because he did what he was told? No - he has done what is expected. In fact as Jesus often does, he digs deeper into our hearts: So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.'
Jesus is explaining that Christian service will be hard, overwhelming, exhausting and draining. And all of this is not to be congratulated - rather it is the norm for the believer. Are you overwhelmed with Christian living? Yes? Jesus prepares us for those many days of serving God in the home or at work - and he says - this is what it will be like - when you want to sit down and be served, God will call you to stand up and continue to serve. That is Christian discipleship in the Word of God. Simply put, a true disciple is overwhelmed in service to God and will be stretched and exhausted.
The story also tells us we cannot serve God by feelings only. We may not feel like serving - OK - but it is not by feeling. It is our call - a call of obedience. We must continue to selflessly, sacrificially, and relentlessly serve the King.
And finally, praise God that one day you will be invited to sit down at the banquet table of the Lamb of God - the Master: Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come and his bride has made herself ready. (Revelation 19.7)
There will be a time to sit and banquet but for now, we will be overwhelmed and exhausted in our service of the King as we give Him glory and carry out His work. This may seem difficult but what a joy it will be on that final day to hear the Lord say: Well done my good and faithful servant - here is your everlasting rest - here is a banquet - come and sit!!
Jesus is still not done with the story. We might expect a bonus in our pay or at least a word of thanks. But as Jesus tells the story, he asks the question - would he thank the servant because he did what he was told? No - he has done what is expected. In fact as Jesus often does, he digs deeper into our hearts: So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.'
Jesus is explaining that Christian service will be hard, overwhelming, exhausting and draining. And all of this is not to be congratulated - rather it is the norm for the believer. Are you overwhelmed with Christian living? Yes? Jesus prepares us for those many days of serving God in the home or at work - and he says - this is what it will be like - when you want to sit down and be served, God will call you to stand up and continue to serve. That is Christian discipleship in the Word of God. Simply put, a true disciple is overwhelmed in service to God and will be stretched and exhausted.
The story also tells us we cannot serve God by feelings only. We may not feel like serving - OK - but it is not by feeling. It is our call - a call of obedience. We must continue to selflessly, sacrificially, and relentlessly serve the King.
And finally, praise God that one day you will be invited to sit down at the banquet table of the Lamb of God - the Master: Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come and his bride has made herself ready. (Revelation 19.7)
There will be a time to sit and banquet but for now, we will be overwhelmed and exhausted in our service of the King as we give Him glory and carry out His work. This may seem difficult but what a joy it will be on that final day to hear the Lord say: Well done my good and faithful servant - here is your everlasting rest - here is a banquet - come and sit!!
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Knowing God's Will - Guidance
Usually when people ask about knowing God's will for their lives, a subtle temptation can enter that period of discovery. The temptation is that we look only at the circumstances that need to be "revealed" but forget the One who will reveal them to us. That is we become so focused on knowing God's will that we forget about knowing God.
What do I mean? If we travel through the Bible, we read about God's guidance. God always led His people - and it was not always easy but it was always wise and good. So we read that God led Abraham in Genesis 12.1: The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you." And at each stage, God would continue to guide Abraham.
Moses and the Israelites were led out of Egypt, through the desert, across the Red Sea and finally into the Promised Land - albeit without Moses and his generation. In fact, we read that just after Israel left Egypt in Exodus 13.17ff, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, "If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt armed for battle. Israel was armed but they were not ready to fight and God knew they would want to return to Egypt. It may have seemed like a confusing, unnecessary journey to the people but it was an act of love by God.
Another example is the famous Psalm 23.1-3: The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness, for his name's sake. Twice the Shepherd is said to lead and guide the sheep. And if you are a sheep, that is really, really good news - quiet waters and paths of righteous for God's glory!! If you are a sheep, you are licking your lips for a drink and you ready to travel down this path!
We could go to many other places in Scripture. All of this is to say that when you begin to ask: What is God's will for my life? In marriage? A job? A family decision? A church decision? our first reaction as believers ought not to be to look at the situation but instead, look to God and confess that throughout all of history, He has led and guided His people for His glory and ultimately for His good.
In knowing God's will, don't forget to know God.
What do I mean? If we travel through the Bible, we read about God's guidance. God always led His people - and it was not always easy but it was always wise and good. So we read that God led Abraham in Genesis 12.1: The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you." And at each stage, God would continue to guide Abraham.
Moses and the Israelites were led out of Egypt, through the desert, across the Red Sea and finally into the Promised Land - albeit without Moses and his generation. In fact, we read that just after Israel left Egypt in Exodus 13.17ff, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, "If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt armed for battle. Israel was armed but they were not ready to fight and God knew they would want to return to Egypt. It may have seemed like a confusing, unnecessary journey to the people but it was an act of love by God.
Another example is the famous Psalm 23.1-3: The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness, for his name's sake. Twice the Shepherd is said to lead and guide the sheep. And if you are a sheep, that is really, really good news - quiet waters and paths of righteous for God's glory!! If you are a sheep, you are licking your lips for a drink and you ready to travel down this path!
We could go to many other places in Scripture. All of this is to say that when you begin to ask: What is God's will for my life? In marriage? A job? A family decision? A church decision? our first reaction as believers ought not to be to look at the situation but instead, look to God and confess that throughout all of history, He has led and guided His people for His glory and ultimately for His good.
In knowing God's will, don't forget to know God.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
JAKSDLKU IHADHK OHDFS OUSHD ODSHjk
The above words are not swear words - they are the "under the breathe mutterings" of an unsatisfied person. They are complaining words - words that no one else hears but resound loudly in the speaker's ear. They come from the heart and as we mutter to ourselves, often rambling and disconnected, we convince ourselves how unfair life is and how bad we have it. JAKSDLKU is look it at how good others have it and how rough I have it; IHADHK is where is God and why has his love left me; UHDFS is I had a lot better life before and now look at this mess; OUSHD is why does everyone hate me; and finally ODSSHjk is give me what we need or I will doubt your love.
Others do not understand these words but we do - and so does God.
Grumbling is ultimately a challenge to God - a test. God, if you really loved me, you would do this and since you don't do this - you don't love me. And therefore I have a right to tell You how nasty You are!!
Thank God He is God and not man and He does not play our petty games.
What does He do with our grumblings? Well, what do we do when we hear others grumble? We either agree - yes look at how bad God is or how bad that person is or how bad our circumstances are and we really deserve better - or we get frustrated and come down hard - don't you know there are people starving all over the world and you complain about ... .
God doesn't do that. Why? Because He is God. Israel has just been led out of Egypt, the Egyptian army has been defeated as Israel walked on the dry land through the Sea and Miriam has sung her song of praise. How quickly praise turns into grumbling as Israel travels through the desert only finding bitter water - water they could not drink. And they begin to grumble - what are we to drink?
What does God do? He shows Himself as God - abundant , amazing God of mercy! In Exodus 15.25-27 he does two things. He gives Moses a piece of wood that changes the bitter water into drinkable water. And then he leads them to Elim where there were 12 springs and seventy palm trees, and they camped near the water (verse 27). The amazing goodness of God. In the midst of their grumbling, he provides in abundance.
How does God deal with our grumblings. At times He provides in abundant abundance (springs, palm trees, water) and reveals our hearts - how can we grumble against such a gracious and amazing and powerful and loving God? How shameful our grumbling is in the face of this gracious God.
Others do not understand these words but we do - and so does God.
Grumbling is ultimately a challenge to God - a test. God, if you really loved me, you would do this and since you don't do this - you don't love me. And therefore I have a right to tell You how nasty You are!!
Thank God He is God and not man and He does not play our petty games.
What does He do with our grumblings? Well, what do we do when we hear others grumble? We either agree - yes look at how bad God is or how bad that person is or how bad our circumstances are and we really deserve better - or we get frustrated and come down hard - don't you know there are people starving all over the world and you complain about ... .
God doesn't do that. Why? Because He is God. Israel has just been led out of Egypt, the Egyptian army has been defeated as Israel walked on the dry land through the Sea and Miriam has sung her song of praise. How quickly praise turns into grumbling as Israel travels through the desert only finding bitter water - water they could not drink. And they begin to grumble - what are we to drink?
What does God do? He shows Himself as God - abundant , amazing God of mercy! In Exodus 15.25-27 he does two things. He gives Moses a piece of wood that changes the bitter water into drinkable water. And then he leads them to Elim where there were 12 springs and seventy palm trees, and they camped near the water (verse 27). The amazing goodness of God. In the midst of their grumbling, he provides in abundance.
How does God deal with our grumblings. At times He provides in abundant abundance (springs, palm trees, water) and reveals our hearts - how can we grumble against such a gracious and amazing and powerful and loving God? How shameful our grumbling is in the face of this gracious God.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Seeing Lostness For What Lostness Really Is
Saturday members from the Sovereign Grace Churches of Canada gathered for prayer for 4-5 hours. We spent time praying for churches, our country, seminary education, missions, church planting, fellowship and the lost. One of the prayer requests was from a missionary from Mozambique, Roland Seiler. He asked for prayer that we might see lostness for what lostness really is.
That is a profound and much-needed prayer request for our day and age. Sadly we can be so consumed with self and not see all around us who are "dying" and not hearing the gospel of Jesus. Have we lost the heart to pray for the lost because we are so filled with self?
Prayer times are heart searching times. God searched my heart as I prayed alongside my brothers and sisters - do I look at the world and all its fleeting treasures with passion, neglecting to weep and pray for the lost and dying?
In a biography on Abraham Lincoln, the author writes of him during the time of the Civil War: On the night of Bull Run, noted his secretaries, Lincoln did not go to bed, stayed on the lounge in the Cabinet room all night. The next night, having heard more accounts of the lost battle, he lay on the sofa in his office and penciled an outline of what must be done, a program for immediate action.
As I read that quote, I thought - when do I stay up and pray for the perishing? When am I consumed with a sense of the sinfulness of this life and the fleeting nature of my existence - and all around me? If Lincoln was so concerned about the dying in the battle of Bull Run, what about souls around me - dying - eternal death?
And so I pray - Lord, grant that I may see lostness for what lostness really is - break my heart to weep and pray once again -and then to faithfully share God's amazing and powerful grace.
That is a profound and much-needed prayer request for our day and age. Sadly we can be so consumed with self and not see all around us who are "dying" and not hearing the gospel of Jesus. Have we lost the heart to pray for the lost because we are so filled with self?
Prayer times are heart searching times. God searched my heart as I prayed alongside my brothers and sisters - do I look at the world and all its fleeting treasures with passion, neglecting to weep and pray for the lost and dying?
In a biography on Abraham Lincoln, the author writes of him during the time of the Civil War: On the night of Bull Run, noted his secretaries, Lincoln did not go to bed, stayed on the lounge in the Cabinet room all night. The next night, having heard more accounts of the lost battle, he lay on the sofa in his office and penciled an outline of what must be done, a program for immediate action.
As I read that quote, I thought - when do I stay up and pray for the perishing? When am I consumed with a sense of the sinfulness of this life and the fleeting nature of my existence - and all around me? If Lincoln was so concerned about the dying in the battle of Bull Run, what about souls around me - dying - eternal death?
And so I pray - Lord, grant that I may see lostness for what lostness really is - break my heart to weep and pray once again -and then to faithfully share God's amazing and powerful grace.
Friday, March 02, 2007
But Why Lord?
Ever ask the question why? In 2 Corinthians 1 Paul is speaking about his sufferings in the province of Asia which were far beyond his ability to endure, so that he and the others despaired even of life.
Instead of asking why, Paul states a Biblical truth. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 3 quick comments.
1. Paul is satisfied with this answer. He did not need to know the details, he simply needed to know God was present. As you ask why in your circumstances, would you be satisfied with this answer?
2. Paul knows his heart - he can easily begin to rely on himself - and so can we in our circumstances. Our God is so amazing He knows when we are becoming to self reliant and we need to focus our lives and trust on Him. And so Paul's statement of Biblical truth is really and submissive prayer of thanksgiving for God's Fatherly care.
3. Paul confesses a powerful God. We do not rely on a weak and powerless God but a God who raises the dead. Paul felt the sentence of death (verse 9a) but guess what - God is able to raise the dead. You may feel the sentence of death, as if God has abandoned you or left you to die. But God, in His power, raises the dead and displays His glory through your life.
With this confession, Paul concludes His unfailing trust in God that He will continue to deliver them and all God's people. That is what Biblical truth does - gives hope to go on as we daily die to self. Are you "under the sentence of death"? Maybe God is taking your eyes of you and placing them on His power and promises. That, believer, is a far better place to be.
Instead of asking why, Paul states a Biblical truth. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 3 quick comments.
1. Paul is satisfied with this answer. He did not need to know the details, he simply needed to know God was present. As you ask why in your circumstances, would you be satisfied with this answer?
2. Paul knows his heart - he can easily begin to rely on himself - and so can we in our circumstances. Our God is so amazing He knows when we are becoming to self reliant and we need to focus our lives and trust on Him. And so Paul's statement of Biblical truth is really and submissive prayer of thanksgiving for God's Fatherly care.
3. Paul confesses a powerful God. We do not rely on a weak and powerless God but a God who raises the dead. Paul felt the sentence of death (verse 9a) but guess what - God is able to raise the dead. You may feel the sentence of death, as if God has abandoned you or left you to die. But God, in His power, raises the dead and displays His glory through your life.
With this confession, Paul concludes His unfailing trust in God that He will continue to deliver them and all God's people. That is what Biblical truth does - gives hope to go on as we daily die to self. Are you "under the sentence of death"? Maybe God is taking your eyes of you and placing them on His power and promises. That, believer, is a far better place to be.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
How Shallow Can We Get? Let's See - Oscar Awards Is A Good Place To Start
I did not watch them but only saw clips of the Oscar awards. The first question that came to my mind was is this really how shallow we have become as a society? Really? We highlight people who have done what? Lived exemplary lives which lead the next generation to great acts of kindness, love and sacrifice? Done heroic acts like saving people's lives or fighting for a country? Gone through intense suffering only to come out the other end better?
No. No, we highlight people filled with silicone who know how to act. We celebrate people who drive in stretched limos, wear expensive jewellery and dress in the latest fashion - and we ask them every shallow question. Are their lives really that interesting? Really?
It caused me to think about some of the people I know - some who are the real "heroes" by God's grace. They are the ones struggling through a difficult marriage saying they are not going to give up - they are going to sacrifice for the sake of their spouse, their children and God. They are the ones who come alongside the hurting and those filled with tears, bringing a meal and a word of encouragement. They are the ones who serve God - when it hurts - in the trenches, seeking to be faithful.
I wonder what God's red carpet looks like? Who will be on it? I imagine it would be far different than the one in the shallow world we live in. How do we get out of the shallowness? How do we celebrate what is important and eternal? There is no easy answer but I think it begins with Christ and holding onto what is eternal. What will happen to the little "Oscar" statues? They will rust, they will gather dust and ultimately - believe it or not - be destroyed. Peter tells us of a treasure kept in heaven for us that does not perish, spoil, or fade - that is because of the resurrection of Jesus.
Living for Jesus is never shallow - not when you are called to die daily to self. That is life - real life that lasts.
No. No, we highlight people filled with silicone who know how to act. We celebrate people who drive in stretched limos, wear expensive jewellery and dress in the latest fashion - and we ask them every shallow question. Are their lives really that interesting? Really?
It caused me to think about some of the people I know - some who are the real "heroes" by God's grace. They are the ones struggling through a difficult marriage saying they are not going to give up - they are going to sacrifice for the sake of their spouse, their children and God. They are the ones who come alongside the hurting and those filled with tears, bringing a meal and a word of encouragement. They are the ones who serve God - when it hurts - in the trenches, seeking to be faithful.
I wonder what God's red carpet looks like? Who will be on it? I imagine it would be far different than the one in the shallow world we live in. How do we get out of the shallowness? How do we celebrate what is important and eternal? There is no easy answer but I think it begins with Christ and holding onto what is eternal. What will happen to the little "Oscar" statues? They will rust, they will gather dust and ultimately - believe it or not - be destroyed. Peter tells us of a treasure kept in heaven for us that does not perish, spoil, or fade - that is because of the resurrection of Jesus.
Living for Jesus is never shallow - not when you are called to die daily to self. That is life - real life that lasts.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
God Does Care
By the time we reach day 6 of creation, everything was made ready for God to put living creatures on the earth he has just created. Day one we saw that he earth was formless, void, deep waters and so God created the light and separated it from the darkness. Days two and three he then separated the waters and created the atmosphere, and then he separated the water on the earth. Day four God created vegetation, followed by the creation of the sun, moon, galaxies.
In all of this, we see that the earth was the focus of God’s creation. For example, Genesis 1.1 tells us God created the heavens and the earth and then in Genesis 1.2, God speaks about what is happening on the earth. Day six tells us of the creation of animals and then Adam - the pinnacle of creation.
The importance of this is not the exaltation of humans – God is exalted. But it does speak about God's unique relationship with man and one of the main messages from Genesis 1 is God's care and provision for his creatures.
This is what makes evolution so revolting. Not only do they deny God but they deny God's care. The very one who gives them food and clothing (and many other blessings) is the very one they deny. They do not live a life of thankfulness, bowing down in worship to the God who cares for them.
The great crime of evolution is not only the denial of God as Creator but is also the unthankful nature of humans to the One who supplies the very air they breath. God has given us so many blessings, all graciously given for our enjoyment, and we are raising a generation to deny God - but even more so - God's intimate care.
No wonder Satan works overtime with evolution. He ultimately sends out the message that there is no God who cares - what a lie! God in His goodness supplied all that men and women would need – he did not leave anything in creation that would leave man wanting and he created it for their enjoyment.
In all of this, we see that the earth was the focus of God’s creation. For example, Genesis 1.1 tells us God created the heavens and the earth and then in Genesis 1.2, God speaks about what is happening on the earth. Day six tells us of the creation of animals and then Adam - the pinnacle of creation.
The importance of this is not the exaltation of humans – God is exalted. But it does speak about God's unique relationship with man and one of the main messages from Genesis 1 is God's care and provision for his creatures.
This is what makes evolution so revolting. Not only do they deny God but they deny God's care. The very one who gives them food and clothing (and many other blessings) is the very one they deny. They do not live a life of thankfulness, bowing down in worship to the God who cares for them.
The great crime of evolution is not only the denial of God as Creator but is also the unthankful nature of humans to the One who supplies the very air they breath. God has given us so many blessings, all graciously given for our enjoyment, and we are raising a generation to deny God - but even more so - God's intimate care.
No wonder Satan works overtime with evolution. He ultimately sends out the message that there is no God who cares - what a lie! God in His goodness supplied all that men and women would need – he did not leave anything in creation that would leave man wanting and he created it for their enjoyment.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Let's ... Go To A Funeral ... It's Friday
I remember being at one funeral and during the reception after the service, a bunch of friends gathered in the church parking lot with the tailgate down, drinking. Inside the reception, a brochure was handed out detailing an upcoming gathering at the local pub in rembrance of the young man who passed away.
I was reading this morning Ecclesiastes 7.2-4: It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart. Sorrow is better than laughter, because a sad face is good for the heart. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure. We live in a generation who can not stand being in the house of mourning - they lived now - in the house of pleasure.
I recently attended another funeral which was not a house of mourning for the loss of a loved one but the house of celebration of a life lived. Now, that is true - but there were also many tears. Why can we not bring ourselves to think upon death today and enter the reality of sorrow?
And that is the point of the preacher in Ecclesiastes - death is common to all and it is good to be found in the house of mourning once and a while as it brings us back to reality - life lived in the presence of God.
How is a sad face good for the heart? Do you ever hear that from the world - or even the church? If you are sad something is wrong and you must get rid of it quickly and superficially. The preacher, however, tells us it is good for the heart. And it is precisely because we then come face to face with God - and that is a good place to be. In suffering, God brings his children into his tender and caring presence and ministers to them, giving them a longing for more of Him. He is a jealous God who loves us too much to allow us to love the world too much.
A house of mourning ... a sad face ... take it to heart and you will find a wise and all powerful God who draws us to Him.
I was reading this morning Ecclesiastes 7.2-4: It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart. Sorrow is better than laughter, because a sad face is good for the heart. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure. We live in a generation who can not stand being in the house of mourning - they lived now - in the house of pleasure.
I recently attended another funeral which was not a house of mourning for the loss of a loved one but the house of celebration of a life lived. Now, that is true - but there were also many tears. Why can we not bring ourselves to think upon death today and enter the reality of sorrow?
And that is the point of the preacher in Ecclesiastes - death is common to all and it is good to be found in the house of mourning once and a while as it brings us back to reality - life lived in the presence of God.
How is a sad face good for the heart? Do you ever hear that from the world - or even the church? If you are sad something is wrong and you must get rid of it quickly and superficially. The preacher, however, tells us it is good for the heart. And it is precisely because we then come face to face with God - and that is a good place to be. In suffering, God brings his children into his tender and caring presence and ministers to them, giving them a longing for more of Him. He is a jealous God who loves us too much to allow us to love the world too much.
A house of mourning ... a sad face ... take it to heart and you will find a wise and all powerful God who draws us to Him.
Friday, February 02, 2007
3 Warnings From Jesus
The Bible is extremely practical in how we may live out our faith. There are many warnings from the lips of Jesus as he walked on earth - here are three.
Matthew 16.6: Be careful, Jesus said to them, Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. There is false teaching that needs to be avoided otherwise, like yeast, it will penetrate the entire body. If we are to live faithful lives for Christ, if we are to be his faithful followers, we must be careful, be on our guard against false teachings.
Matthew 26.40-41: Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. Could you men not watch with me for one hour? he asked Peter. Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the body is weak. Thank God that he knows our weaknesses, but that does not take away from watching and praying. I think there is a special warning here when our bodies are weak - tired, depressed, suffering in some way. We need to watch that we do not fall into temptation like Peter would later on and deny that he ever knew Jesus. Sin is a denial of our relationship with God and we need to guard against tempation.
Luke 12.15: Then he said to them: Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. How necessary to hear this warning from Jesus. We need to watch out and be on guard against taking the good things in creation and making them gods we worship. Yes, in our society we call them misplaced priorities but the Bible calls it greed - a sin.
This is a sampling to show that part of our walk will be to stand guard against sin - watch out, be careful, stand firm, be immovable - that is part of the calling of a believer.
Matthew 16.6: Be careful, Jesus said to them, Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. There is false teaching that needs to be avoided otherwise, like yeast, it will penetrate the entire body. If we are to live faithful lives for Christ, if we are to be his faithful followers, we must be careful, be on our guard against false teachings.
Matthew 26.40-41: Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. Could you men not watch with me for one hour? he asked Peter. Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the body is weak. Thank God that he knows our weaknesses, but that does not take away from watching and praying. I think there is a special warning here when our bodies are weak - tired, depressed, suffering in some way. We need to watch that we do not fall into temptation like Peter would later on and deny that he ever knew Jesus. Sin is a denial of our relationship with God and we need to guard against tempation.
Luke 12.15: Then he said to them: Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. How necessary to hear this warning from Jesus. We need to watch out and be on guard against taking the good things in creation and making them gods we worship. Yes, in our society we call them misplaced priorities but the Bible calls it greed - a sin.
This is a sampling to show that part of our walk will be to stand guard against sin - watch out, be careful, stand firm, be immovable - that is part of the calling of a believer.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Final Prayer of the Bible Answered
What is the final prayer of the Bible? Well, we read in Revelation 22:20 Jesus has just said: Yes, I am coming soon. The final prayer of the Bible then prays for the final words of Jesus to be answered: Amen. Come Lord Jesus (22.20b). That is the last prayer we read of in Scripture: Come Lord Jesus.
Before we look at how the prayer is answered, notice something that is often lacking in prayers today. Today we say Amen (so be it, it is truth) at the end of our prayers but the people of God must also learn to say Amen at the beginning of their prayers. In other words, they must take the words and promises of God, agree with them, believe in them, and then pray them back to God. That is why Amen in verse 20 is at the beginning of the prayer. Our prayers would then go something like this: Amen. Give me strength to stand in the midst of difficulty - and may I love you and give you glory. We start with God's Word and then believe in faith God will be found faithful and gracious.
If verse 20 is the final prayer of God's people, what happens in verse 21? Verse 21 is God's answer to the prayer of His people. The book of Revelation has been about the challenges and opposition God's people will face, all the while having the picture of the throne of the Lamb in the background. God reigns and rules. So, the final prayer is for Jesus to come and take them to glory and God's answer is: the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people. Amen.
Absolutely amazing! What is God saying? My grace, my undeserved kindness will carry you all the days of your life and when I come, you will be with me. Why will you continue to serve God despite opposition? God's grace. Why will you not deny Jesus if you are truly saved? God's grace. Why will you love God more than the world? God's grace. Why will the beast of the sea and the earth and the dragon not have the final victory? God's grace. Why will God's Word and the gospel go throughout the nations? God's grace. Why will you banquet at the table of God? God's grace.
The final verse in the Bible is an answer to prayer. In this answer God reminds His people why they stand - all because of God's grace.
Before we look at how the prayer is answered, notice something that is often lacking in prayers today. Today we say Amen (so be it, it is truth) at the end of our prayers but the people of God must also learn to say Amen at the beginning of their prayers. In other words, they must take the words and promises of God, agree with them, believe in them, and then pray them back to God. That is why Amen in verse 20 is at the beginning of the prayer. Our prayers would then go something like this: Amen. Give me strength to stand in the midst of difficulty - and may I love you and give you glory. We start with God's Word and then believe in faith God will be found faithful and gracious.
If verse 20 is the final prayer of God's people, what happens in verse 21? Verse 21 is God's answer to the prayer of His people. The book of Revelation has been about the challenges and opposition God's people will face, all the while having the picture of the throne of the Lamb in the background. God reigns and rules. So, the final prayer is for Jesus to come and take them to glory and God's answer is: the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people. Amen.
Absolutely amazing! What is God saying? My grace, my undeserved kindness will carry you all the days of your life and when I come, you will be with me. Why will you continue to serve God despite opposition? God's grace. Why will you not deny Jesus if you are truly saved? God's grace. Why will you love God more than the world? God's grace. Why will the beast of the sea and the earth and the dragon not have the final victory? God's grace. Why will God's Word and the gospel go throughout the nations? God's grace. Why will you banquet at the table of God? God's grace.
The final verse in the Bible is an answer to prayer. In this answer God reminds His people why they stand - all because of God's grace.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Dry Eyes
Revelation 21.4: He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.
Contrary to much of the teaching of North American churches, Jesus did not die to make us happy. Jesus died to glorify His Father through the salvation of God's chosen people. Jesus and the apostles are unmistakably clear that those who follow Jesus will suffer - their lives will be filled with tears.
That is why Revelation 21.4 is so instructive and encouraging to the believer. A believer's earthly life will be filled with tears - we ought to expect death and mourning and crying and pain - that is the inevitable result of the Fall. Our lives, especially Christians, will be filled with a unique pain as we watch rebellion all around us - and experience it within us.
If there are tears in your life, that is part of the life God has called you to live. He promises to sustain you, comfort and help you but not take away the tears. Not yet.
When we pass from this life the first act of God we read in the new heaven and earth will be He will wipe every tear from their eyes. It is comforting that God's knows our tears here on earth and when we enter glory, he stoops, wipes and ushers you into unimaginable glory and pleasure and delight - into the very dwelling of God.
In this life, we will find our eyes moist - as we suffer personally and as we weep with those who weep. But praise God one day all results of sin will be done away with and God will give us dry eyes for all eternity.
Contrary to much of the teaching of North American churches, Jesus did not die to make us happy. Jesus died to glorify His Father through the salvation of God's chosen people. Jesus and the apostles are unmistakably clear that those who follow Jesus will suffer - their lives will be filled with tears.
That is why Revelation 21.4 is so instructive and encouraging to the believer. A believer's earthly life will be filled with tears - we ought to expect death and mourning and crying and pain - that is the inevitable result of the Fall. Our lives, especially Christians, will be filled with a unique pain as we watch rebellion all around us - and experience it within us.
If there are tears in your life, that is part of the life God has called you to live. He promises to sustain you, comfort and help you but not take away the tears. Not yet.
When we pass from this life the first act of God we read in the new heaven and earth will be He will wipe every tear from their eyes. It is comforting that God's knows our tears here on earth and when we enter glory, he stoops, wipes and ushers you into unimaginable glory and pleasure and delight - into the very dwelling of God.
In this life, we will find our eyes moist - as we suffer personally and as we weep with those who weep. But praise God one day all results of sin will be done away with and God will give us dry eyes for all eternity.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Where To Begin Asking for Help?
Psalm 121:1-2: I lift my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
Going through difficult times almost always causes us to look for answers - why is this taking place? And we think that once we have the answer, we will gain perspective and be able to live through our trial or difficulty.
Psalm 121 teaches us that before we look for answers, we need to ask a question. In other words, when you are suffering, begin with asking a question, not looking for an answer.
So what question should we ask? The psalmist is so simple and profound: where does my help come from? There it is - the question. How does that help?
First, when you ask that question, your eyes are lifted from your issues and troubles, which can be overwhelming. The psalmist lifted his eyes up to the hills - something bigger than his problems. God - the Maker of heaven and earth - is able to help. This puts our issues in proper perspective.
Second, the answer was found in an unexpected place: where instead of why. When we are grieving, we often begin with why - we want to know God's ways. The psalmist begins with where - he wants to know the person of God. That is a big difference. If you are to read through the Psalm, you will find his comfort in the person and promises of God: he who watches over you will not slumber or sleep, he will be your shade at your right hand, he will keep you from all harm.
We need to train our hearts and minds to ask the right questions when we are in need of help and we do so by asking where instead of why. And our hearts will find the Maker of heaven and earth, a person whose promises and strength we may find our rest.
Going through difficult times almost always causes us to look for answers - why is this taking place? And we think that once we have the answer, we will gain perspective and be able to live through our trial or difficulty.
Psalm 121 teaches us that before we look for answers, we need to ask a question. In other words, when you are suffering, begin with asking a question, not looking for an answer.
So what question should we ask? The psalmist is so simple and profound: where does my help come from? There it is - the question. How does that help?
First, when you ask that question, your eyes are lifted from your issues and troubles, which can be overwhelming. The psalmist lifted his eyes up to the hills - something bigger than his problems. God - the Maker of heaven and earth - is able to help. This puts our issues in proper perspective.
Second, the answer was found in an unexpected place: where instead of why. When we are grieving, we often begin with why - we want to know God's ways. The psalmist begins with where - he wants to know the person of God. That is a big difference. If you are to read through the Psalm, you will find his comfort in the person and promises of God: he who watches over you will not slumber or sleep, he will be your shade at your right hand, he will keep you from all harm.
We need to train our hearts and minds to ask the right questions when we are in need of help and we do so by asking where instead of why. And our hearts will find the Maker of heaven and earth, a person whose promises and strength we may find our rest.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Sin Slows Us Down
Psalm 1.1: Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
Richard D. Phillips writes: Did you notice the definite progression contained in these words? First the person is walking, then standing, before finally taking his seat as he settles into the sinful life he has chosen for himself. This is the slippery slope of sin, a progression that leads to a settled godliness. (Walking With God, 4)
He will go on to say: Furthermore, there is a progression in the nature of sin's influence. First, there is the counsel. This is advice and persuasion, the way sin begins with our minds coming under the influence of the world. Next it is a way. The ideas have taken root in the mind and now bear fruit in behaviour and habits. Then, lastly, we have the seat of scoffers. Now the man is seated in depravity, his character has been warped and he is at rest and at home in this way of sin. (5)
It is no wonder we read elsewhere in Scripture Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage (1 Corinthians 16.13). It takes courage to live for Jesus and avoid the path of sinners - courage when lived by faith - brings blessing: But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on hi law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. (Psalm 1.2-3)
Richard D. Phillips writes: Did you notice the definite progression contained in these words? First the person is walking, then standing, before finally taking his seat as he settles into the sinful life he has chosen for himself. This is the slippery slope of sin, a progression that leads to a settled godliness. (Walking With God, 4)
He will go on to say: Furthermore, there is a progression in the nature of sin's influence. First, there is the counsel. This is advice and persuasion, the way sin begins with our minds coming under the influence of the world. Next it is a way. The ideas have taken root in the mind and now bear fruit in behaviour and habits. Then, lastly, we have the seat of scoffers. Now the man is seated in depravity, his character has been warped and he is at rest and at home in this way of sin. (5)
It is no wonder we read elsewhere in Scripture Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage (1 Corinthians 16.13). It takes courage to live for Jesus and avoid the path of sinners - courage when lived by faith - brings blessing: But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on hi law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. (Psalm 1.2-3)
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Learning to Pray Big
In 2 Thessalonians 3.1-3 we have a request from Paul for the church to pray for him.
Finally brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. (1) Paul's first request: may God be glorified. Pray that the grace you have experienced may be experienced by others as the Lord's message spreads. Paul did not pray for safety or a good time - he prayed for God's glory to shine in darkness.
And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith. (2) The reason for his prayer is the rebellion against God - there are wicked and evil men without faith. Pray that they may be delivered - kept safe to proclaim the Lord's message.
(This is great!) But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. (3) The problem with prayer today (and even my prayers) is that we focus so much time on the problem and forget the promise. Paul makes one statement: pray for us because ... and then - But - this is who God is (faithful) and this is what he will do (strengthen and protect you). Prayer is incomplete if all we do is ask - we must see who God is as well.
We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance (4-5) Amazing how quickly Paul says - pray for me - and then his prayer ends by praying for others. That is the way prayer works - the more we see God and the greater and more amazing and powerful he is - the bigger our prayers will be. It is like Paul saying - You pray for me and here is God and if this is God he will not only take care of me but he will take care of you.
Do you find it difficult to pray for others? Are your prayers always about your needs and your ministry? It is because your God is too small and you are not looking to His promises. When God is BIG and we are praying for His glory to explode, our prayers will turn outward and filled with confidence.
Finally brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. (1) Paul's first request: may God be glorified. Pray that the grace you have experienced may be experienced by others as the Lord's message spreads. Paul did not pray for safety or a good time - he prayed for God's glory to shine in darkness.
And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith. (2) The reason for his prayer is the rebellion against God - there are wicked and evil men without faith. Pray that they may be delivered - kept safe to proclaim the Lord's message.
(This is great!) But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. (3) The problem with prayer today (and even my prayers) is that we focus so much time on the problem and forget the promise. Paul makes one statement: pray for us because ... and then - But - this is who God is (faithful) and this is what he will do (strengthen and protect you). Prayer is incomplete if all we do is ask - we must see who God is as well.
We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance (4-5) Amazing how quickly Paul says - pray for me - and then his prayer ends by praying for others. That is the way prayer works - the more we see God and the greater and more amazing and powerful he is - the bigger our prayers will be. It is like Paul saying - You pray for me and here is God and if this is God he will not only take care of me but he will take care of you.
Do you find it difficult to pray for others? Are your prayers always about your needs and your ministry? It is because your God is too small and you are not looking to His promises. When God is BIG and we are praying for His glory to explode, our prayers will turn outward and filled with confidence.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Love the Truth
2 Thessalonians 2.10: They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.
What is interesting as Paul talks about those who are perishing is that he writes: they perish because they refused to love the truth He did not write: they perish because they refused to know the truth.
A chasm separates those who know the truth and those who love the truth. To know is not to love the truth. What sustains believers as they are presented by every sort of evil (2.10)? They will love the truth.
This must be the prayer of our hearts: Lord, do not just fill my brain with Bible knowledge but give me a great love for the truth so I will stand alone for you.
When you go to church this Sunday, may I humbly suggest that you pray before your pastor preaches - God, give me a love for the truth so that I may stand firm and bring you glory.
What is interesting as Paul talks about those who are perishing is that he writes: they perish because they refused to love the truth He did not write: they perish because they refused to know the truth.
A chasm separates those who know the truth and those who love the truth. To know is not to love the truth. What sustains believers as they are presented by every sort of evil (2.10)? They will love the truth.
This must be the prayer of our hearts: Lord, do not just fill my brain with Bible knowledge but give me a great love for the truth so I will stand alone for you.
When you go to church this Sunday, may I humbly suggest that you pray before your pastor preaches - God, give me a love for the truth so that I may stand firm and bring you glory.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
A True "Coming Out"
Revelation 18:4-5: Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues; for her sins are piled up to heaven, and God has remembered her crimes.
The apostle John is warning believers to come out of the world so they will not fall under God's wrath. The question is how? What practical steps can we take to come out of the world - while still living in the world? 2 Peter 3:11 asks the same question: Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? Peter teaches us four practical steps so that we may come out and not share in the world's sins.
1. You ought to live holy and godly lives (3.11): the general direction of your life is to be set apart and patterned after Jesus Christ.
2. Make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with him (3.14): our life direction and passion, our efforts will be towards godliness and peace - not with the world - but with God. We will seek to be God pleasers not man pleasers.
3. Be on your guard (3.17): fundamentally, we need to know we are in a battle. John Owens writes: If sin be subtle, watchful, strong, and always at work in the business of killing our souls, and we be slothful, negligent, foolish, in proceeding to the ruin thereof, can we expect a comfortable event? There is not a day but sin foils or is foiled, prevails or is prevailed on; and it will be so whilst we live in this world. (Vol 6, p. 11) A good lesson - most battles of coming out are lost because we do not even know we are in a battle. Peter's words are wise: be on your guard - be able to recognize the enemy and then know the power of the Lord - He is gracious.
4. Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: pick up God's Word and grow in holiness, godliness, peace, and grace. Knowledge apart from grace is harsh; grace apart from knowledge is foolishness; but knowledge and grace together is growth so we may be strong enough by God's Spirit to come out and stand for God in a world against Him.
The apostle John is warning believers to come out of the world so they will not fall under God's wrath. The question is how? What practical steps can we take to come out of the world - while still living in the world? 2 Peter 3:11 asks the same question: Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? Peter teaches us four practical steps so that we may come out and not share in the world's sins.
1. You ought to live holy and godly lives (3.11): the general direction of your life is to be set apart and patterned after Jesus Christ.
2. Make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with him (3.14): our life direction and passion, our efforts will be towards godliness and peace - not with the world - but with God. We will seek to be God pleasers not man pleasers.
3. Be on your guard (3.17): fundamentally, we need to know we are in a battle. John Owens writes: If sin be subtle, watchful, strong, and always at work in the business of killing our souls, and we be slothful, negligent, foolish, in proceeding to the ruin thereof, can we expect a comfortable event? There is not a day but sin foils or is foiled, prevails or is prevailed on; and it will be so whilst we live in this world. (Vol 6, p. 11) A good lesson - most battles of coming out are lost because we do not even know we are in a battle. Peter's words are wise: be on your guard - be able to recognize the enemy and then know the power of the Lord - He is gracious.
4. Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: pick up God's Word and grow in holiness, godliness, peace, and grace. Knowledge apart from grace is harsh; grace apart from knowledge is foolishness; but knowledge and grace together is growth so we may be strong enough by God's Spirit to come out and stand for God in a world against Him.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Be Quiet and the Fire Will Go Down
Proverbs 26:20: Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down.
If I do not add wood to my fire then I will have no fire and on the other hand, if I want fire, I add wood. Simple lesson.
Simple, however, when applied to wood. The Word of God teaches us the damage of gossip - of slandering or killing another person's character with your words. If you want a quarrel to continue, continue to talk ill about the person - more wood - more fire. If you want a quarrel to end, be quiet. Stop talking. Or say something positive and upbuilding about the person.
How many quarrels would die in a marriage or between parents and children, in church or in workplaces if someone stood up and shut up. And the quarrel would die - it would shrivel up.
C.H. Spurgeon writes in John Ploughman's Talks: An open mouth shows an empty head. If the chest had gold or silver in it, it would not always stand wide open. Talking comes by nature, but it needs a good deal of training to learn to be quiet; yet regard for truth should put a bit into every honest man's mouth and a bridle upon every good woman's tongue. (48-49)
Wise words. Stop placing wood on the fire and the quarrel dies out.
If I do not add wood to my fire then I will have no fire and on the other hand, if I want fire, I add wood. Simple lesson.
Simple, however, when applied to wood. The Word of God teaches us the damage of gossip - of slandering or killing another person's character with your words. If you want a quarrel to continue, continue to talk ill about the person - more wood - more fire. If you want a quarrel to end, be quiet. Stop talking. Or say something positive and upbuilding about the person.
How many quarrels would die in a marriage or between parents and children, in church or in workplaces if someone stood up and shut up. And the quarrel would die - it would shrivel up.
C.H. Spurgeon writes in John Ploughman's Talks: An open mouth shows an empty head. If the chest had gold or silver in it, it would not always stand wide open. Talking comes by nature, but it needs a good deal of training to learn to be quiet; yet regard for truth should put a bit into every honest man's mouth and a bridle upon every good woman's tongue. (48-49)
Wise words. Stop placing wood on the fire and the quarrel dies out.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me - Mark 10.47
Jesus was coming out of Jericho, surrounded by a massive crowd, and he was on his way to Jerusalem. Along the way, in the dust and the busyness of the moment, a lone voice rises: Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. SSSHHHH - quiet - he doesn't have time - he won't hear you - there is no reason for him to hear you or stop - don't you know who this is - Jesus - be quiet for the last time.
But the lone voice cries out: Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.
I love the next series of actions by Jesus: Jesus stops - he calls the man to him - he asks the man what he can do - he listens - and he heals the man of his blindness.
Simple words the world does not understand - they need mercy - I need mercy. And here is the amazing good news of the Bible - Jesus stops and listens to the cry.
Sometimes all we can cry for is mercy in the mess of life. What does Jesus do? He stops - listens - and acts.
Jesus was coming out of Jericho, surrounded by a massive crowd, and he was on his way to Jerusalem. Along the way, in the dust and the busyness of the moment, a lone voice rises: Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. SSSHHHH - quiet - he doesn't have time - he won't hear you - there is no reason for him to hear you or stop - don't you know who this is - Jesus - be quiet for the last time.
But the lone voice cries out: Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.
I love the next series of actions by Jesus: Jesus stops - he calls the man to him - he asks the man what he can do - he listens - and he heals the man of his blindness.
Simple words the world does not understand - they need mercy - I need mercy. And here is the amazing good news of the Bible - Jesus stops and listens to the cry.
Sometimes all we can cry for is mercy in the mess of life. What does Jesus do? He stops - listens - and acts.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Finding Life In the Ministry
1 Thessalonians 3.8: For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.
A sufferer is writing to those who are suffering - Paul to the people in Thessalonica. People who are suffering (Paul in this instance for his love for the Lord Jesus) can find it hard to find hope and life. That is why Paul's statement is so interesting as to where he finds "life" as a "pastor"- the people of God - despite the suffering, opposition and persecution they continue to stand firm in the Lord. They have not wavered, they have not denied the faith, they have not gone the easy route - they are standing firm, looking to the Lord for their strength.
Pastor's today are told to find their "life" in all sorts of areas - successful churches, powerful sermons, influential character and many other things. But that can easily become discouraging because churches are not always "successful", sermons at times barely squeak out, and our character is ignored or has so many flaws left, we seriously doubt any influence at all.
That is why I love Paul's words and they become my prayer: God - may I find life in the people you have given me - may I find life when they are standing firm. May that be my purpose, my joy, my passion and my life.
The beauty is it takes our eyes off our ministry and success or lack of success and places them on true life - God's glory as it shines in the light of the people. What is Paul saying when he says they are standing firm? He is saying they love God more than the world; they love the glory of God more than the goodness of the world.
And that is life - life for a pastor - purpose for a pastor - and the prayer of the pastor - May my people love you more and more so they stand firm in the the Lord against all the opposition and suffering. May you grant them a love for God that is above all else in this world.
A sufferer is writing to those who are suffering - Paul to the people in Thessalonica. People who are suffering (Paul in this instance for his love for the Lord Jesus) can find it hard to find hope and life. That is why Paul's statement is so interesting as to where he finds "life" as a "pastor"- the people of God - despite the suffering, opposition and persecution they continue to stand firm in the Lord. They have not wavered, they have not denied the faith, they have not gone the easy route - they are standing firm, looking to the Lord for their strength.
Pastor's today are told to find their "life" in all sorts of areas - successful churches, powerful sermons, influential character and many other things. But that can easily become discouraging because churches are not always "successful", sermons at times barely squeak out, and our character is ignored or has so many flaws left, we seriously doubt any influence at all.
That is why I love Paul's words and they become my prayer: God - may I find life in the people you have given me - may I find life when they are standing firm. May that be my purpose, my joy, my passion and my life.
The beauty is it takes our eyes off our ministry and success or lack of success and places them on true life - God's glory as it shines in the light of the people. What is Paul saying when he says they are standing firm? He is saying they love God more than the world; they love the glory of God more than the goodness of the world.
And that is life - life for a pastor - purpose for a pastor - and the prayer of the pastor - May my people love you more and more so they stand firm in the the Lord against all the opposition and suffering. May you grant them a love for God that is above all else in this world.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
A "Vanishing Moment"
1 Peter 1.24-25: All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever.
I am not old enough to have "senior" moments - although I seem to get them way too often. This past week, I believe I had what I will term a "vanishing moment" - which can happen at any age. We attended two funerals, one of a 7 year old girl who died in a car accident and the other of an 80 year old man whose body just gave out. Within the past two weeks, we celebrated the birthdays of two of my children - both a year older (I know that was an obvious statement - but I said it for m y benefit!!). And added in the mix, we remembered God's goodness to our church as we celebrated 15 years.
The moment hit - not like being hit by a train - but like a slow moving train passing by you as you wait for it to pass. The moment just dawns on you - vanishing. Years going by, lives taken, children growing. Vanishing - I am slowly vanishing.
And that is where 1 Peter is so important - God's word does not vanish and it would be utter foolishness to live apart from or let go of God's Word.
So this "vanishing" moment was a good reminder - my life is passing - the train is in many ways going way too fast. How am I living? Are my priorities straight? Am I carrying grudges or are there unnecessary divisions? Am I making the most of what God has given me for His kingdom?
Sadly, vanishing moments often turn into senior moments - I forget to live my life in the face of eternity. That is why, despite the joy and tears, this vanishing moment was a good time - a time to remember who I am, where I am going and how I am to get there.
I am not old enough to have "senior" moments - although I seem to get them way too often. This past week, I believe I had what I will term a "vanishing moment" - which can happen at any age. We attended two funerals, one of a 7 year old girl who died in a car accident and the other of an 80 year old man whose body just gave out. Within the past two weeks, we celebrated the birthdays of two of my children - both a year older (I know that was an obvious statement - but I said it for m y benefit!!). And added in the mix, we remembered God's goodness to our church as we celebrated 15 years.
The moment hit - not like being hit by a train - but like a slow moving train passing by you as you wait for it to pass. The moment just dawns on you - vanishing. Years going by, lives taken, children growing. Vanishing - I am slowly vanishing.
And that is where 1 Peter is so important - God's word does not vanish and it would be utter foolishness to live apart from or let go of God's Word.
So this "vanishing" moment was a good reminder - my life is passing - the train is in many ways going way too fast. How am I living? Are my priorities straight? Am I carrying grudges or are there unnecessary divisions? Am I making the most of what God has given me for His kingdom?
Sadly, vanishing moments often turn into senior moments - I forget to live my life in the face of eternity. That is why, despite the joy and tears, this vanishing moment was a good time - a time to remember who I am, where I am going and how I am to get there.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Thankful for a Menu
Yesterday I heard someone speak about God's work in China. During the break I talked with him and he told me that we would not believe the poverty in certain places. One story he relayed was of a family that owned one pair of pants - whoever needed to go out that day would wear them.
This morning for breakfast I had oatmeal, eggs and orange juice. After I showered, I chose a pair of pants, leaving the few others in the drawer - I also put on a sweater for the damp cold. I see my wife looking at cookbooks, planning a variety of tasty meals. When I go to a restaurant, I look at a menu - a variety of choices.
I am thankful for cookbooks and menus - a variety of choices to enjoy God's blessings. It also causes me to stop grumbling and remember - remember God's abundant goodness for all his blessings.
This morning for breakfast I had oatmeal, eggs and orange juice. After I showered, I chose a pair of pants, leaving the few others in the drawer - I also put on a sweater for the damp cold. I see my wife looking at cookbooks, planning a variety of tasty meals. When I go to a restaurant, I look at a menu - a variety of choices.
I am thankful for cookbooks and menus - a variety of choices to enjoy God's blessings. It also causes me to stop grumbling and remember - remember God's abundant goodness for all his blessings.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
When God Is Silent
We also respect God's silences as well as his sayings. We can trust him. The Bible does not say all we would like it to say. But it does say all that God wants to say and all that we need to know. (Letters To A Student, Drew, 60)
Psalm 46.10: Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Psalm 46 is a tumultuous time in the life of the Psalmist - mountains falling, waves roaring and nations in an uproar. But in the midst of tumult and chaos, God calls for quiet, stillness. Quietness is achieved not by looking for answers but by looking to God. Know this one thing: God is God. Period. Double period.
We are called to simply know who God is - that He will exalt His name and we must simply trust. Quietly trust God's moving among the nations, in the midst of turmoil and emptiness.
Be still and know - not the intimate details of God's hidden will - but the revealed character of God. He alone brings peace and stillness as God's people are surrounded by troubles and disappointments.
Psalm 46.10: Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Psalm 46 is a tumultuous time in the life of the Psalmist - mountains falling, waves roaring and nations in an uproar. But in the midst of tumult and chaos, God calls for quiet, stillness. Quietness is achieved not by looking for answers but by looking to God. Know this one thing: God is God. Period. Double period.
We are called to simply know who God is - that He will exalt His name and we must simply trust. Quietly trust God's moving among the nations, in the midst of turmoil and emptiness.
Be still and know - not the intimate details of God's hidden will - but the revealed character of God. He alone brings peace and stillness as God's people are surrounded by troubles and disappointments.
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