Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 15-16; Psalm 32; Matthew 25
Scripture: Matthew 25-14-18
14 "Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his property to them. 15 To one he gave five talents of money, to another two talents, and to another one talent, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more. 17 So also, the one with the two talents gained two more. 18 But the man who had received the one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master's money.
Observation: Three servants are given opportunity. Each one determines the course that his opportunity will take. The outcome or result for each servant depends entirely on the choices each of the servants makes. The choices are determined by each individual based primarily on their character. Two servants had good character and made good choices -- one servant had bad character and made poor choices. The wisdom of their choice was directly proportional to the quality of their character. Their success (or lack thereof) was directly proportional to the wisdom of their choices.
Application: Each of us is given opportunities by God. As in the parable, the level of opportunity varies from person to person. While there are various influences which affect our lives for good and bad, the primary factor in determining success or failure is the wisdom of the choices we make. And our character is the thing that will propel the wisdom of our choice.
Bottom line: We have been given the responsibility to conduct our lives in such a way that produces the best results for God. While there are a variety of influences in the molding of character, making good choices in our friends and mentors is often the primary determinant in what our character becomes. Therefore, choosing good and godly companions and mentors is paramount. That choice is more than a mere preference, it can literally be the verdict on the outcome of our life. Choose carefully and choose wisely.
Prayer: Lord, help us to be people with excellence of character who take the opportunities that You bless us with and maximize them. We seek to receive Your blessings and multiply them so we can bless others and build your kingdom. Help us to reflect who You are so we can achieve great results commensurate with Your greatness.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, May 08, 2006
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Title: No Small Sin / Topic: Hypocrisy
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 13-14; Matthew 24
Scripture: Matthew 24:48-51
48 But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, 'My master is staying away a long time,' 49 and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. 50 The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. 51 He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Observation: Verse 51 caught my eye. The punishment for the wicked and abusive servant is in two parts: first, the master will "cut him to pieces," and second, he will "assign him a place with the hypocrites." This is a little puzzling to me since the guy is already in pieces -- does it matter where you get sent after that?!?
OK, besides my offbeat sense of humor, what else does this passage have to offer. Well it is extremely interesting to me that the place of punishment that has "weeping and gnashing of teeth" is called "a place with the hypocrites." We tend to think that hypocrisy is no big deal -- I mean we all know that the church is full of it, right? But here the place assigned to the hypocrite, that is the person who says one thing but does something else, is a place of significant punishment and separation from God.
Application: We get it wrong when we think of big sins and little sins. We used to say,
Prayer: Lord, help us to live in integrity and truth. May we walk out the things we confess. May our lives line up consistently with what we say we believe. And show us where that is not happening in our lives so we can repent and make it right. We want to be in Your presence when it is our time to pass into eternity.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 24:48-51
48 But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, 'My master is staying away a long time,' 49 and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. 50 The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. 51 He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Observation: Verse 51 caught my eye. The punishment for the wicked and abusive servant is in two parts: first, the master will "cut him to pieces," and second, he will "assign him a place with the hypocrites." This is a little puzzling to me since the guy is already in pieces -- does it matter where you get sent after that?!?
OK, besides my offbeat sense of humor, what else does this passage have to offer. Well it is extremely interesting to me that the place of punishment that has "weeping and gnashing of teeth" is called "a place with the hypocrites." We tend to think that hypocrisy is no big deal -- I mean we all know that the church is full of it, right? But here the place assigned to the hypocrite, that is the person who says one thing but does something else, is a place of significant punishment and separation from God.
Application: We get it wrong when we think of big sins and little sins. We used to say,
"I don't smoke, drink or chew,
and I don't go with the girls who do!"
And we thought that because of that we were holy. Yeah right! But we could have a little hypocrisy and think that it was no big deal. God says otherwise. We really do need to practice what we preach or we better prepare ourselves for a shock when we stand before God because our future accommodations will not be what we were hoping for.and I don't go with the girls who do!"
Prayer: Lord, help us to live in integrity and truth. May we walk out the things we confess. May our lives line up consistently with what we say we believe. And show us where that is not happening in our lives so we can repent and make it right. We want to be in Your presence when it is our time to pass into eternity.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Title: The Forgotten Name / Topic: Disobedience
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 11-12; Psalm 51; Matthew 21
Scripture: 2 Samuel 12:24 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and lay with her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The LORD loved him; 25 and because the LORD loved him, he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah.
Observation: I never really noticed this before but God told David and Bathsheba that they were to name their son Jedidiah. They had named him Solomon but God sent word to them to change it. But they did not do what the Lord told them to do. They stuck with their choice and did not change it to the name the Lord had given them. This strikes me as quite odd and really brazen, especially given the situation surrounding the birth of this young lad. You would think that after falling into such gross sin and causing so much pain to so many people, that David would want to be very careful about obeying the Lord's instructions exactly. But apparently, he just doesn't seem to pay any attention at all because this name does not appear anywhere else in the Bible. But I wonder what might have been different for Solomon if he had been given the name Jedidiah which means "loved by the Lord." Maybe such a name would have caused him to have a greater love for God. No one knows --
Application: But I do know that the wisest course is obeying the Lord fully. Any thought that there are no consequences in disregarding any part of the Lord's instructions is a lie. You cannot disobey God without some negative impact in your life and/or the life of others.
Prayer: Lord, help us to pay attention to what You say and to do it. May be not be lax in listening to You and carrying out Your words to us. We want to walk in the fullness of Your blessing and we know that to do that, we have to fully follow what You say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 12:24 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and lay with her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The LORD loved him; 25 and because the LORD loved him, he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah.
Observation: I never really noticed this before but God told David and Bathsheba that they were to name their son Jedidiah. They had named him Solomon but God sent word to them to change it. But they did not do what the Lord told them to do. They stuck with their choice and did not change it to the name the Lord had given them. This strikes me as quite odd and really brazen, especially given the situation surrounding the birth of this young lad. You would think that after falling into such gross sin and causing so much pain to so many people, that David would want to be very careful about obeying the Lord's instructions exactly. But apparently, he just doesn't seem to pay any attention at all because this name does not appear anywhere else in the Bible. But I wonder what might have been different for Solomon if he had been given the name Jedidiah which means "loved by the Lord." Maybe such a name would have caused him to have a greater love for God. No one knows --
Application: But I do know that the wisest course is obeying the Lord fully. Any thought that there are no consequences in disregarding any part of the Lord's instructions is a lie. You cannot disobey God without some negative impact in your life and/or the life of others.
Prayer: Lord, help us to pay attention to what You say and to do it. May be not be lax in listening to You and carrying out Your words to us. We want to walk in the fullness of Your blessing and we know that to do that, we have to fully follow what You say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Title: The Individualist / Topic: Rebellion
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 10; 1 Chronicles 20; Psalm 20; Matthew 22
Scripture: Matthew 22:8-13
8 "Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding banquet is ready, but those I invited did not deserve to come. 9 Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.' 10 So the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, both good and bad, and the wedding hall was filled with guests.
11 "But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. 12 'Friend,' he asked, 'how did you get in here without wedding clothes?' The man was speechless.
13 "Then the king told the attendants, 'Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'"
Observation: Jesus tells this parable beginning with the phrase, "The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son..." So we know immediately that the king is God the Father and his son is Jesus Christ the Son of God. Think of the grace that this story portrays. Almighty God throws a great party and we are invited! Of course, it takes a while until "everyone" actually gets invited because the "A List" people get invited first but they snub the king, refusing to come to the party. So the king sends "personal reminders," servants urging the guests to come. But the "A List" people still refuse. It is then that the party is opened up to everyone. They "gathered all the people they could find, both good and bad." That is how you and I made it to the party. But notice that some of the people in the party, one guy in particular, an individualist, still refused to comply -- he wouldn't wear the clothing provided. You see, everyone was given special clothes to wear (probably for the pictures), but this one fellow decided that he would come to the party on his terms.
Application: There are many people in God's Kingdom who won't submit to God. I believe that we all have rebellion in our hearts, some more and others less. And everybody has to deal with it in some fashion. Some people deal with it by calling it "a personality trait" or something like that. Then they allow their rebellion to define much of their thoughts, words, and actions. The fellow in the story probably felt pretty special, being the only one at the party who wasn't dressed in the party outfits. He probably thought that he was the only one with enough courage to express himself and not conform to the religious dictates of others. He may have even bragged about this individuality. But when the king angrily notices him and asks him why he isn't wearing the wedding clothes, "the man was speechless." So much for being an individualist! Rebellion can be dressed up in all sorts of creative ways, but it is still rebellion and will eventually be dealt with by the Lord.
Bottom line: I must surrender and submit to God. Why? Because He is God and I am not.
Prayer: Lord, help me to lay my life at Your feet and take it up in the way You direct. May we see our rebellion for what it is and get rid of it. Show us how to live humbly in ourselves and with great confidence in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 22:8-13
8 "Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding banquet is ready, but those I invited did not deserve to come. 9 Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.' 10 So the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, both good and bad, and the wedding hall was filled with guests.
11 "But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. 12 'Friend,' he asked, 'how did you get in here without wedding clothes?' The man was speechless.
13 "Then the king told the attendants, 'Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'"
Observation: Jesus tells this parable beginning with the phrase, "The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son..." So we know immediately that the king is God the Father and his son is Jesus Christ the Son of God. Think of the grace that this story portrays. Almighty God throws a great party and we are invited! Of course, it takes a while until "everyone" actually gets invited because the "A List" people get invited first but they snub the king, refusing to come to the party. So the king sends "personal reminders," servants urging the guests to come. But the "A List" people still refuse. It is then that the party is opened up to everyone. They "gathered all the people they could find, both good and bad." That is how you and I made it to the party. But notice that some of the people in the party, one guy in particular, an individualist, still refused to comply -- he wouldn't wear the clothing provided. You see, everyone was given special clothes to wear (probably for the pictures), but this one fellow decided that he would come to the party on his terms.
Application: There are many people in God's Kingdom who won't submit to God. I believe that we all have rebellion in our hearts, some more and others less. And everybody has to deal with it in some fashion. Some people deal with it by calling it "a personality trait" or something like that. Then they allow their rebellion to define much of their thoughts, words, and actions. The fellow in the story probably felt pretty special, being the only one at the party who wasn't dressed in the party outfits. He probably thought that he was the only one with enough courage to express himself and not conform to the religious dictates of others. He may have even bragged about this individuality. But when the king angrily notices him and asks him why he isn't wearing the wedding clothes, "the man was speechless." So much for being an individualist! Rebellion can be dressed up in all sorts of creative ways, but it is still rebellion and will eventually be dealt with by the Lord.
Bottom line: I must surrender and submit to God. Why? Because He is God and I am not.
Prayer: Lord, help me to lay my life at Your feet and take it up in the way You direct. May we see our rebellion for what it is and get rid of it. Show us how to live humbly in ourselves and with great confidence in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Title: Sounds Like David / Topic: Modeling
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 8; 2 Samuel 9; 1 Chronicles 18; 1 Chronicles 19; Matthew 21
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 19:12-13
12 Joab said, "If the Arameans are too strong for me, then you are to rescue me; but if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will rescue you. 13 Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The LORD will do what is good in his sight."
Observation: This is Joab, David's top general. He finds himself in a terrible spot strategically. Their positions have been flanked as a second enemy force has come upon them from the rear. Joab is giving final directions to Abashai, his brother and second in command. What I love about this is the fact that after Joab gives the battle plan, he acknowledges that they are in God's hands: "The LORD will do what is good in his sight." This shows the effect of David's training and example. Joab sounds like David. Good leadership rubs off. (By the way, wicked leadership rubs off too.)
Application: Every believer should be intentionally involved in training. We should have someone who is leading us and someone who is following us. And as we model faith in our times of difficulty, we are helping to train our protégés how to handle their times of trouble. And if we do it right, they will trust in God and turn to Him. And also notice that Joab is training Abashai in the walk of faith as well. Neither of them would ever forget how God came to their rescue in this desperate situation.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your faithful example to us. Help us to lead in word, deed, attitude, and motivation as we live out the life and ministry that You have given us. Make us faithful teachers and models to those who come behind us. May our consistent example bring forth good and lasting fruit in the lives of those You have called us to lead.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 19:12-13
12 Joab said, "If the Arameans are too strong for me, then you are to rescue me; but if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will rescue you. 13 Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The LORD will do what is good in his sight."
Observation: This is Joab, David's top general. He finds himself in a terrible spot strategically. Their positions have been flanked as a second enemy force has come upon them from the rear. Joab is giving final directions to Abashai, his brother and second in command. What I love about this is the fact that after Joab gives the battle plan, he acknowledges that they are in God's hands: "The LORD will do what is good in his sight." This shows the effect of David's training and example. Joab sounds like David. Good leadership rubs off. (By the way, wicked leadership rubs off too.)
Application: Every believer should be intentionally involved in training. We should have someone who is leading us and someone who is following us. And as we model faith in our times of difficulty, we are helping to train our protégés how to handle their times of trouble. And if we do it right, they will trust in God and turn to Him. And also notice that Joab is training Abashai in the walk of faith as well. Neither of them would ever forget how God came to their rescue in this desperate situation.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your faithful example to us. Help us to lead in word, deed, attitude, and motivation as we live out the life and ministry that You have given us. Make us faithful teachers and models to those who come behind us. May our consistent example bring forth good and lasting fruit in the lives of those You have called us to lead.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Title: Happy Fear / Topic: Balance
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 17; Psalm 2; Matthew 20
Scripture: Psalm 2:11 Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.
Observation: What a strange combination of words these are to my ears. First of all "fear" is not something that is generally associated with serving the Lord. (Now I know that some of you are quoting to me right now the verse that says "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." OK, I also know that verse.) But my observation about this is true: in today's "Christian culture," the phrase "serve the Lord with fear" is not common -- and certainly not popular. And if this first part of verse 11 is uncommon, the second half "rejoice with trembling" is downright strange! If you went up to ten people at church and said to each of them, "rejoice with trembling," you would get ten confused responses. [I don't suggest you try this. :-) ]
The fact that these phrases are so far out of our norm is what caught my attention. I think that we have overemphasized the "personal relationship" aspect of our faith too much and have lost the sense of God as the Lord of Lords, the invincible One in Whose presence we must bow. The idea that God is a friend to us is true. But He is not our "buddy" or "pal".
Let me share a personal story. I recently had an encounter with a very young child where I was introduced to him and ended up sitting next to him at a meal. I immediately shifted into the "Grampapa mode" and started entertaining the lad. He laughed at my funny voices and wanted more. When I told him that it was time to pause and look at the menu, he grabbed me and demanded more funny voices. I calmly but firmly explained to this child, "Do not do that. You are not to grab me like that. I am your friend, but I am an adult and not one of your playground pals. You are not to treat me like one of your kid buddies. You must respect me. Do you understand?" He had become too comfortable with me and I needed to help him to better understand the relationship. Today this little boy is very glad to see me and is always respectful but also appropriately affectionate.
Application: We need to be careful that we are not too comfortable with Almighty God. A too-comfortable relationship can result in a casual attitude and taking God for granted. The outcome of this could be a disastrous complacency. There is another verse with the phrase "fear and trembling" that is on point here: "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling..." (Phil. 2:12). This pushes us in the direction of the serious, earnest, dedicated pursuit of God's purposes for our lives. There is a gravity to it. It is not to be taken lightly. Walking with God, knowing and serving Him is a joyful but serious business. "Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling."
Prayer: Lord, help us to find this place of great joy and deep reverence for You. May we walk in such a way that we experience the freedom You bring while taking Your yoke upon our lives. Thank You that You call us to lives of a humanly-impossible balance that can only be achieved by surrendering to Your power.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 2:11 Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.
Observation: What a strange combination of words these are to my ears. First of all "fear" is not something that is generally associated with serving the Lord. (Now I know that some of you are quoting to me right now the verse that says "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." OK, I also know that verse.) But my observation about this is true: in today's "Christian culture," the phrase "serve the Lord with fear" is not common -- and certainly not popular. And if this first part of verse 11 is uncommon, the second half "rejoice with trembling" is downright strange! If you went up to ten people at church and said to each of them, "rejoice with trembling," you would get ten confused responses. [I don't suggest you try this. :-) ]
The fact that these phrases are so far out of our norm is what caught my attention. I think that we have overemphasized the "personal relationship" aspect of our faith too much and have lost the sense of God as the Lord of Lords, the invincible One in Whose presence we must bow. The idea that God is a friend to us is true. But He is not our "buddy" or "pal".
Let me share a personal story. I recently had an encounter with a very young child where I was introduced to him and ended up sitting next to him at a meal. I immediately shifted into the "Grampapa mode" and started entertaining the lad. He laughed at my funny voices and wanted more. When I told him that it was time to pause and look at the menu, he grabbed me and demanded more funny voices. I calmly but firmly explained to this child, "Do not do that. You are not to grab me like that. I am your friend, but I am an adult and not one of your playground pals. You are not to treat me like one of your kid buddies. You must respect me. Do you understand?" He had become too comfortable with me and I needed to help him to better understand the relationship. Today this little boy is very glad to see me and is always respectful but also appropriately affectionate.
Application: We need to be careful that we are not too comfortable with Almighty God. A too-comfortable relationship can result in a casual attitude and taking God for granted. The outcome of this could be a disastrous complacency. There is another verse with the phrase "fear and trembling" that is on point here: "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling..." (Phil. 2:12). This pushes us in the direction of the serious, earnest, dedicated pursuit of God's purposes for our lives. There is a gravity to it. It is not to be taken lightly. Walking with God, knowing and serving Him is a joyful but serious business. "Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling."
Prayer: Lord, help us to find this place of great joy and deep reverence for You. May we walk in such a way that we experience the freedom You bring while taking Your yoke upon our lives. Thank You that You call us to lives of a humanly-impossible balance that can only be achieved by surrendering to Your power.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Title: Who Owns You? / Topic: Surrender
Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 16; Psalm 106; Matthew 19
Scripture: Matthew 19:16 Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?"
17 "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments."
18 "Which ones?" the man inquired.
Jesus replied, " 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'"
20 "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?"
21 Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
22 When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
25 When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can be saved?"
26 Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Observation: "I want to be rich!" If you are a believer and you say these words to another Christian, you are likely to raise eyebrows. A desire to be wealthy is guaranteed to arouse suspicion among Christians. But I believe that God is definitely in favor of rich Christians. He wants more of His committed and dedicated followers to have greater resource so they can be conduits of blessing to this world. However this story does show one of the pitfalls of great wealth. Here is a young man with a desire to follow God and he comes to Jesus to find out how to take his life to a higher spiritual level. Jesus points out that there is an idol in the man's life -- it is his wealth. The man put his money ahead of God. He didn't own his money -- his money owned him. And this fact meant that he could not be owned by God and he couldn't serve God fully. When given the challenge to choose God and let go of his money idol, the man "went away sad." He was deeply conflicted but his money won. Jesus says, "it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven... it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Now you may have heard a story about a gate in the wall of Jerusalem called "the eye of a needle" that a camel could only get through by being emptied of its baggage and stooping on its knees. This has been widely taught but unfortunately, no such gate exists -- it is an urban myth. Click here for more information about this story.
The fact that the disciples object with amazed incredulity shows that they understood the impossibility of Jesus' hyperbole. Jesus was talking about a real camel and a real needle. [Actually it is possible for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle. Of course, the camel has to go through the blender first. Ouch! That's not a pretty thought! Sorry :-)]
So the point is that a rich person can't be saved without God's intervention. But isn't that also true about a poor person, or any other person for that matter.
Application: All of us have the same problem: pride. That is, a person's individual right of self-determination. (In America, we have enshrined this prerogative as a cherished value.) Whether rich or poor, we all have to give up that right to come to God. And this is not just a one-time thing. No, we have to keep giving up and keep coming to God. Jesus tells us this. "If any man would follow me he must take up his cross daily and follow me." What or who owns you? It is either God or something else. Give yourself fully to God.
Prayer: Lord, help us to surrender all and follow You. Whether we have great riches or no riches, it is our pride that ultimately will keep us from You. Help us to see pride's destructive power and let it die so that we may live fully and unhindered in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 19:16 Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?"
17 "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments."
18 "Which ones?" the man inquired.
Jesus replied, " 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'"
20 "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?"
21 Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
22 When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
25 When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can be saved?"
26 Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Observation: "I want to be rich!" If you are a believer and you say these words to another Christian, you are likely to raise eyebrows. A desire to be wealthy is guaranteed to arouse suspicion among Christians. But I believe that God is definitely in favor of rich Christians. He wants more of His committed and dedicated followers to have greater resource so they can be conduits of blessing to this world. However this story does show one of the pitfalls of great wealth. Here is a young man with a desire to follow God and he comes to Jesus to find out how to take his life to a higher spiritual level. Jesus points out that there is an idol in the man's life -- it is his wealth. The man put his money ahead of God. He didn't own his money -- his money owned him. And this fact meant that he could not be owned by God and he couldn't serve God fully. When given the challenge to choose God and let go of his money idol, the man "went away sad." He was deeply conflicted but his money won. Jesus says, "it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven... it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Now you may have heard a story about a gate in the wall of Jerusalem called "the eye of a needle" that a camel could only get through by being emptied of its baggage and stooping on its knees. This has been widely taught but unfortunately, no such gate exists -- it is an urban myth. Click here for more information about this story.
The fact that the disciples object with amazed incredulity shows that they understood the impossibility of Jesus' hyperbole. Jesus was talking about a real camel and a real needle. [Actually it is possible for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle. Of course, the camel has to go through the blender first. Ouch! That's not a pretty thought! Sorry :-)]
So the point is that a rich person can't be saved without God's intervention. But isn't that also true about a poor person, or any other person for that matter.
Application: All of us have the same problem: pride. That is, a person's individual right of self-determination. (In America, we have enshrined this prerogative as a cherished value.) Whether rich or poor, we all have to give up that right to come to God. And this is not just a one-time thing. No, we have to keep giving up and keep coming to God. Jesus tells us this. "If any man would follow me he must take up his cross daily and follow me." What or who owns you? It is either God or something else. Give yourself fully to God.
Prayer: Lord, help us to surrender all and follow You. Whether we have great riches or no riches, it is our pride that ultimately will keep us from You. Help us to see pride's destructive power and let it die so that we may live fully and unhindered in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Title: The Clueless Disciples / Topic: Humility
Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 14; 1 Chronicles 15; Psalm 132; Matthew 18
Scripture: Matthew 18:1-4
1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Observation: I am always amazed at the really stupid questions that the Disciples asked. Their questions reveal how often they truly miss the point of what Jesus was trying to teach them. Case in point: the scripture above where the Disciples are apparently having a debate about which of them is going to be Jesus' second in command when they finally take over from the Romans. "Who is the greatest in the kingdom?" is their question. Jesus uses the opportunity to set them straight. "It's not about 'the greatest in heaven' -- it's about getting into heaven and to get in you have to be humble." I'm sure this was a shock to the Disciples, especially since Jesus didn't use any of them as the example but chose a small child to make His point. They were jockeying for position and Jesus essentially told them that if they continued their prideful pursuits, they wouldn't even get in!
Application: "Become like a child," Jesus tell us. Humble - teachable - eager to learn - unpretentious - uncomplicated. These traits are the opposite of the sophisticated assertive bluster that our culture promotes (i.e. Donald Trump). We must approach God with simplicity and openness. To sit at His feet and listen to what He says -- and to love Him: these are the ways that Jesus calls us to come.
Prayer: Lord, I want to come to You as a child. I want to be able to receive all that You have for me, and I know that I have so much in me that gets in the way of that. Help me to put my stuff aside and humbly seek Your face. Show us how to "change and become like little children" so we may experience all of You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 18:1-4
1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Observation: I am always amazed at the really stupid questions that the Disciples asked. Their questions reveal how often they truly miss the point of what Jesus was trying to teach them. Case in point: the scripture above where the Disciples are apparently having a debate about which of them is going to be Jesus' second in command when they finally take over from the Romans. "Who is the greatest in the kingdom?" is their question. Jesus uses the opportunity to set them straight. "It's not about 'the greatest in heaven' -- it's about getting into heaven and to get in you have to be humble." I'm sure this was a shock to the Disciples, especially since Jesus didn't use any of them as the example but chose a small child to make His point. They were jockeying for position and Jesus essentially told them that if they continued their prideful pursuits, they wouldn't even get in!
Application: "Become like a child," Jesus tell us. Humble - teachable - eager to learn - unpretentious - uncomplicated. These traits are the opposite of the sophisticated assertive bluster that our culture promotes (i.e. Donald Trump). We must approach God with simplicity and openness. To sit at His feet and listen to what He says -- and to love Him: these are the ways that Jesus calls us to come.
Prayer: Lord, I want to come to You as a child. I want to be able to receive all that You have for me, and I know that I have so much in me that gets in the way of that. Help me to put my stuff aside and humbly seek Your face. Show us how to "change and become like little children" so we may experience all of You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Title: They Didn't Ask / Topic: God's Way
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 6; 1 Chronicles 13; Psalm 68; Matthew 17
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 13:1-12
1 David conferred with each of his officers, the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds. 2 He then said to the whole assembly of Israel, "If it seems good to you and if it is the will of the LORD our God, let us send word far and wide to the rest of our brothers throughout the territories of Israel, and also to the priests and Levites who are with them in their towns and pasturelands, to come and join us. 3 Let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we did not inquire of it during the reign of Saul." 4 The whole assembly agreed to do this, because it seemed right to all the people.
5 So David assembled all the Israelites, from the Shihor River in Egypt to Lebo Hamath, to bring the ark of God from Kiriath Jearim. 6 David and all the Israelites with him went to Baalah of Judah (Kiriath Jearim) to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD, who is enthroned between the cherubim—the ark that is called by the Name.
7 They moved the ark of God from Abinadab's house on a new cart, with Uzzah and Ahio guiding it. 8 David and all the Israelites were celebrating with all their might before God, with songs and with harps, lyres, tambourines, cymbals and trumpets.
9 When they came to the threshing floor of Kidon, Uzzah reached out his hand to steady the ark, because the oxen stumbled. 10 The LORD's anger burned against Uzzah, and he struck him down because he had put his hand on the ark. So he died there before God.
11 Then David was angry because the LORD's wrath had broken out against Uzzah, and to this day that place is called Perez Uzzah.
12 David was afraid of God that day and asked, "How can I ever bring the ark of God to me?"...
Observation: As David thinks about bringing the ark up to Jerusalem from the place it had been put after the Philistines sent it away, he asks the people and his officials, but he doesn't ask the Lord. That he assumes that it will be OK with God is shown by this line from verse 2: "If it seems good to you and if it is the will of the LORD our God..." Nowhere is there any record of him actually seeking God's will. The result is disaster. An innocent, well-meaning individual dies in the fiasco because David violated the clearly-written directions and warnings God had already given concerning the ark. David was angry with God, but he should have been just mad at himself.
Application: Don't assume or presume on God. Ask Him what to do and How to do it. Then listen and do as He says. Simple but true.
Prayer: Lord, may we walk in not only Your will but also Your ways. Help us to avoid presumption and arrogance of self-will in our lives by being in constant communication with You through the leading of the Holy Spirit.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 13:1-12
1 David conferred with each of his officers, the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds. 2 He then said to the whole assembly of Israel, "If it seems good to you and if it is the will of the LORD our God, let us send word far and wide to the rest of our brothers throughout the territories of Israel, and also to the priests and Levites who are with them in their towns and pasturelands, to come and join us. 3 Let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we did not inquire of it during the reign of Saul." 4 The whole assembly agreed to do this, because it seemed right to all the people.
5 So David assembled all the Israelites, from the Shihor River in Egypt to Lebo Hamath, to bring the ark of God from Kiriath Jearim. 6 David and all the Israelites with him went to Baalah of Judah (Kiriath Jearim) to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD, who is enthroned between the cherubim—the ark that is called by the Name.
7 They moved the ark of God from Abinadab's house on a new cart, with Uzzah and Ahio guiding it. 8 David and all the Israelites were celebrating with all their might before God, with songs and with harps, lyres, tambourines, cymbals and trumpets.
9 When they came to the threshing floor of Kidon, Uzzah reached out his hand to steady the ark, because the oxen stumbled. 10 The LORD's anger burned against Uzzah, and he struck him down because he had put his hand on the ark. So he died there before God.
11 Then David was angry because the LORD's wrath had broken out against Uzzah, and to this day that place is called Perez Uzzah.
12 David was afraid of God that day and asked, "How can I ever bring the ark of God to me?"...
Observation: As David thinks about bringing the ark up to Jerusalem from the place it had been put after the Philistines sent it away, he asks the people and his officials, but he doesn't ask the Lord. That he assumes that it will be OK with God is shown by this line from verse 2: "If it seems good to you and if it is the will of the LORD our God..." Nowhere is there any record of him actually seeking God's will. The result is disaster. An innocent, well-meaning individual dies in the fiasco because David violated the clearly-written directions and warnings God had already given concerning the ark. David was angry with God, but he should have been just mad at himself.
Application: Don't assume or presume on God. Ask Him what to do and How to do it. Then listen and do as He says. Simple but true.
Prayer: Lord, may we walk in not only Your will but also Your ways. Help us to avoid presumption and arrogance of self-will in our lives by being in constant communication with You through the leading of the Holy Spirit.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Title: Honest To God Truth / Topic: The Bible
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 4; 2 Samuel 5; Psalm 139; Matthew 16
Scripture: Today's reading is full of rich truth! Read it all and enjoy the insights that the Spirit will bring to you. I will give a brief overview of the entire reading today.
Observation/Application:
2 Samuel 4 -- "Nothing succeeds like success." As David's success grows and his kingdom is established, some bad actors are attracted to him. Thinking that they can earn points with David, two evil men murder Saul's son Ish-Bosheth in his bed and bring his head to David. Of course, they are wrong and end up dead. Moral: Success will bring greater numbers of followers, but not all that follow the Godly are good. Evil people will attach themselves to successful works of God.
2 Samuel 5 -- David strengthens his hand. We see some of David's military genius. In conquering Jerusalem, he uses the underground water tunnels to gain access. He forms an alliance with King Hiram of Tyre who helps construct a palace for David. David unwisely takes more wives (see yesterday post regarding this subject). This chapter ends with an invasion by the Philistines. We see David's heart toward God as he seeks God's direction regarding a military response. God gives David not only a strategy, but sends an angelic army to fight for Israel! Chalk up another victory for David. Moral of this chapter: David's strengths and weaknesses are in full view. He is a good man with some significant problems. (One of the reasons I regard the Bible to be truthful and accurate is that we are given an unvarnished account of heroes like David. There is no idealized glorification of their lives -- no, we see them portrayed "warts and all" -- as real people with their struggles and battles, victories and defeats. The Bible is the honest to God word of God.)
Psalm 139 -- Some of the most beautiful poetry ever written! I love David's recitation of God's tender and overarching care and power for His children. Moral: God is intricately woven into the fabric of my life, beginning even before I came to be. I am in His care and in His thoughts. I want to think and be like Him.
Matthew 16 -- Jesus encounter with "The Religious" provides the backdrop for His interaction with His disciples. Religious rulers ask Him for a sign from heaven, and He talks to them about the weather and rebukes them for their spiritual insensitivity. He warns the Disciples to stay away from "the leaven of the Pharisees and Saducees" and they think He is talking about bread. Jesus can't believe how thick these guys are and He derides them for worrying about bread in light of their two experiences watching Jesus multiply bread to feed thousands! He elicits the great Confession of faith from Peter calling Him "the rock", and shortly thereafter, harshly rebukes Peter calling Him "Satan!" Moral: Even the original Disciples had a hard time understanding what was going on. Should we be surprised to see spiritual confusion around us or even within ourselves? No. Moral #2: People can do something very great one minute and something very bad the next. And just because a person has great insight on one truth doesn't mean he's got all truth figured out. Don't trust in people, trust in God.
Prayer: Lord, we do trust in You. We know You will never leave us nor forsake us. I thank You that You love me so much as we read this morning: "How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! (Psalm 139:17) May we abide and thrive in the center of Your love and power.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Today's reading is full of rich truth! Read it all and enjoy the insights that the Spirit will bring to you. I will give a brief overview of the entire reading today.
Observation/Application:
2 Samuel 4 -- "Nothing succeeds like success." As David's success grows and his kingdom is established, some bad actors are attracted to him. Thinking that they can earn points with David, two evil men murder Saul's son Ish-Bosheth in his bed and bring his head to David. Of course, they are wrong and end up dead. Moral: Success will bring greater numbers of followers, but not all that follow the Godly are good. Evil people will attach themselves to successful works of God.
2 Samuel 5 -- David strengthens his hand. We see some of David's military genius. In conquering Jerusalem, he uses the underground water tunnels to gain access. He forms an alliance with King Hiram of Tyre who helps construct a palace for David. David unwisely takes more wives (see yesterday post regarding this subject). This chapter ends with an invasion by the Philistines. We see David's heart toward God as he seeks God's direction regarding a military response. God gives David not only a strategy, but sends an angelic army to fight for Israel! Chalk up another victory for David. Moral of this chapter: David's strengths and weaknesses are in full view. He is a good man with some significant problems. (One of the reasons I regard the Bible to be truthful and accurate is that we are given an unvarnished account of heroes like David. There is no idealized glorification of their lives -- no, we see them portrayed "warts and all" -- as real people with their struggles and battles, victories and defeats. The Bible is the honest to God word of God.)
Psalm 139 -- Some of the most beautiful poetry ever written! I love David's recitation of God's tender and overarching care and power for His children. Moral: God is intricately woven into the fabric of my life, beginning even before I came to be. I am in His care and in His thoughts. I want to think and be like Him.
Matthew 16 -- Jesus encounter with "The Religious" provides the backdrop for His interaction with His disciples. Religious rulers ask Him for a sign from heaven, and He talks to them about the weather and rebukes them for their spiritual insensitivity. He warns the Disciples to stay away from "the leaven of the Pharisees and Saducees" and they think He is talking about bread. Jesus can't believe how thick these guys are and He derides them for worrying about bread in light of their two experiences watching Jesus multiply bread to feed thousands! He elicits the great Confession of faith from Peter calling Him "the rock", and shortly thereafter, harshly rebukes Peter calling Him "Satan!" Moral: Even the original Disciples had a hard time understanding what was going on. Should we be surprised to see spiritual confusion around us or even within ourselves? No. Moral #2: People can do something very great one minute and something very bad the next. And just because a person has great insight on one truth doesn't mean he's got all truth figured out. Don't trust in people, trust in God.
Prayer: Lord, we do trust in You. We know You will never leave us nor forsake us. I thank You that You love me so much as we read this morning: "How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! (Psalm 139:17) May we abide and thrive in the center of Your love and power.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Title: The Seeds Of Sin / Topic: Compromise
Subtitle: How Many Wives Does One David Need?
[Today's post is on the long side. Sorry, but I couldn't figure a way to say it in fewer words.]
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 3; 1 Chronicles 12; Matthew 15
Scripture: 2 Samuel 3:2-5, 13-16
2 Sons were born to David in Hebron:
His firstborn was Amnon the son of Ahinoam [1] of Jezreel;
3 his second, Kileab the son of Abigail [2] the widow of Nabal of Carmel;
the third, Absalom the son of Maacah [3] daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;
4 the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith [4];
the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital [5];
5 and the sixth, Ithream the son of David's wife Eglah [6].
These were born to David in Hebron...
13 "Good," said David. "I will make an agreement with you [Abner]. But I demand one thing of you: Do not come into my presence unless you bring Michal daughter of Saul when you come to see me." 14 Then David sent messengers to Ish-Bosheth son of Saul, demanding, "Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed to myself for the price of a hundred Philistine foreskins."
15 So Ish-Bosheth gave orders and had her taken away from her husband Paltiel son of Laish. 16 Her husband, however, went with her, weeping behind her all the way to Bahurim. Then Abner said to him, "Go back home!" So he went back.
Observation: This passage has always bothered me. David's stock is soaring -- Saul's is plummeting. Saul is dead and all but one of his sons are dead while David is adding sons like arrows to his quiver. David is taking over (as he should) as the remnants of Saul's failed kingship are fading away. Verses 2 through 5 (above) give a list of not only David's first six sons, but of the fact that each comes from one of six different wives. (Up until this point, we were only aware of two of David's wives. But now we learn of four more for a total of six.)
Now, Abner, Saul's Chief-of-Staff, has made an overture to come over to David, but David makes a demand of him that seems quite odd, especially in light of the immediate context. David demands another wife. He wants Michal, the daughter of Saul that was promised to him but later withdrawn and given to another man, even though David completed the quest required for her hand in marriage. Saul did David wrong in the situation with Michal.
But David has clearly moved on -- he has taken other wives, six to be exact, and Michal has moved on as well, having a husband, and with him looking forward to having children of her own.
But there it is: this odd and troubling request by David. "Bring me Michal!" The order is given and Michal is torn away from her husband, Paltiel, to be given to David. The clear implication in the text is that Michal is Paltiel's only wife and that he loved her dearly and is distraught as she is ripped from their home. It's a shame. Paltiel had done nothing wrong to David -- David's quarrel was with Saul. But David wants Michal. He certainly has some grounds to claim her, but even so, there are other grounds in favor of Paltiel's claim. And the fact that David already has six other wives, I mean... "How many wives does one David need?"
It is important to note also that the rivalries between David's sons - half-brothers as they were - brought many griefs to David later on. And as David takes Paltiel's wife, Michal, and we know that he already has another man's wife (Abigail, former wife of Nabal), we are reminded that David is heading toward future disaster when even all the wives he has aren't enough for him and he takes Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite, and eventually murders Uriah, to complete the deed. We are seeing the prelude to the fall of David.
Application: Sin is progressive. It starts with little seeds. Things that we can justify. But these tiny seeds of sin plant themselves in our lives and send down roots and grow bigger and bigger. David's practice of taking a wife from another man didn't seem like anything bad at all when it was the dead fool, Nabal, whose wife he took. And here with Michal, it does have some validity. But these are seeds of a besetting sin that will eventually grow to take over David's life and take down his kingdom. Watch out for the little seeds of sin. When you find yourself justifying something that deep down you know to be wrong, watch out! Get rid of it. Or it may get rid of you.
Prayer: Lord, make us aware of the little seeds of sin that we allow in our lives. Help us to always be cultivating the soil of our hearts to remove those seeds and the seedlings as they sprout. May we walk without compromise and with full integrity before You and others always.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
[Today's post is on the long side. Sorry, but I couldn't figure a way to say it in fewer words.]
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 3; 1 Chronicles 12; Matthew 15
Scripture: 2 Samuel 3:2-5, 13-16
2 Sons were born to David in Hebron:
His firstborn was Amnon the son of Ahinoam [1] of Jezreel;
3 his second, Kileab the son of Abigail [2] the widow of Nabal of Carmel;
the third, Absalom the son of Maacah [3] daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;
4 the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith [4];
the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital [5];
5 and the sixth, Ithream the son of David's wife Eglah [6].
These were born to David in Hebron...
13 "Good," said David. "I will make an agreement with you [Abner]. But I demand one thing of you: Do not come into my presence unless you bring Michal daughter of Saul when you come to see me." 14 Then David sent messengers to Ish-Bosheth son of Saul, demanding, "Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed to myself for the price of a hundred Philistine foreskins."
15 So Ish-Bosheth gave orders and had her taken away from her husband Paltiel son of Laish. 16 Her husband, however, went with her, weeping behind her all the way to Bahurim. Then Abner said to him, "Go back home!" So he went back.
Observation: This passage has always bothered me. David's stock is soaring -- Saul's is plummeting. Saul is dead and all but one of his sons are dead while David is adding sons like arrows to his quiver. David is taking over (as he should) as the remnants of Saul's failed kingship are fading away. Verses 2 through 5 (above) give a list of not only David's first six sons, but of the fact that each comes from one of six different wives. (Up until this point, we were only aware of two of David's wives. But now we learn of four more for a total of six.)
Now, Abner, Saul's Chief-of-Staff, has made an overture to come over to David, but David makes a demand of him that seems quite odd, especially in light of the immediate context. David demands another wife. He wants Michal, the daughter of Saul that was promised to him but later withdrawn and given to another man, even though David completed the quest required for her hand in marriage. Saul did David wrong in the situation with Michal.
But David has clearly moved on -- he has taken other wives, six to be exact, and Michal has moved on as well, having a husband, and with him looking forward to having children of her own.
But there it is: this odd and troubling request by David. "Bring me Michal!" The order is given and Michal is torn away from her husband, Paltiel, to be given to David. The clear implication in the text is that Michal is Paltiel's only wife and that he loved her dearly and is distraught as she is ripped from their home. It's a shame. Paltiel had done nothing wrong to David -- David's quarrel was with Saul. But David wants Michal. He certainly has some grounds to claim her, but even so, there are other grounds in favor of Paltiel's claim. And the fact that David already has six other wives, I mean... "How many wives does one David need?"
It is important to note also that the rivalries between David's sons - half-brothers as they were - brought many griefs to David later on. And as David takes Paltiel's wife, Michal, and we know that he already has another man's wife (Abigail, former wife of Nabal), we are reminded that David is heading toward future disaster when even all the wives he has aren't enough for him and he takes Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite, and eventually murders Uriah, to complete the deed. We are seeing the prelude to the fall of David.
Application: Sin is progressive. It starts with little seeds. Things that we can justify. But these tiny seeds of sin plant themselves in our lives and send down roots and grow bigger and bigger. David's practice of taking a wife from another man didn't seem like anything bad at all when it was the dead fool, Nabal, whose wife he took. And here with Michal, it does have some validity. But these are seeds of a besetting sin that will eventually grow to take over David's life and take down his kingdom. Watch out for the little seeds of sin. When you find yourself justifying something that deep down you know to be wrong, watch out! Get rid of it. Or it may get rid of you.
Prayer: Lord, make us aware of the little seeds of sin that we allow in our lives. Help us to always be cultivating the soil of our hearts to remove those seeds and the seedlings as they sprout. May we walk without compromise and with full integrity before You and others always.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Title: From Misfit To Mighty / Topic: Leadership
Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 2; 1 Chronicles 11; Psalm 142; Matthew 14
Scripture: 2 Samuel 2:11 this is the list of David's mighty men...
[and from an earlier reading] 1 Samuel 22:1 David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and his father's household heard about it, they went down to him there. 2 All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader...
Observation: Today's reading contains the list of David's mighty men and tells of their amazing exploits. These were like Israel's Knights of the Round Table. They were the Special Forces of their time. These men were dedicated, disciplined, highly skilled, and extremely loyal. But they did not start out that way. 1 Samuel 22:1-2 (above) tell us that when they first gathered to David, they were a rag tag bunch of misfits and outcasts. They were losers. What changed them? The powerful effect of great leadership. David led them with character and courage. He modeled high integrity and honor. And in the pressure cooker of their situation, David rubbed off on them.
Application: Great leaders make their followers great. But it takes time and consistent interaction, especially through difficult times. Think of what David and these men went through. They were hunted down like animals. They had to go into exile and operate covertly against Israel's enemies while living among them. Their lives where in danger from all sides. Great character, like a diamond, is forged in deep places of great heat and enormous pressure. David's mighty men became great in character like diamonds. May we be willing to be likewise formed.
Prayer: Lord, help us to welcome all who seek our comradeship. May we find the diamond within every individual, without regard to any person's original condition. Thank You, Lord, that You know how to bring the heat and pressure to bear upon us in such a way that we come forth better. And thank You for those who model greatness and excellence of leadership in our lives. Help us to become mighty men and women — people worthy of our great Champion and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 2:11 this is the list of David's mighty men...
[and from an earlier reading] 1 Samuel 22:1 David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and his father's household heard about it, they went down to him there. 2 All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader...
Observation: Today's reading contains the list of David's mighty men and tells of their amazing exploits. These were like Israel's Knights of the Round Table. They were the Special Forces of their time. These men were dedicated, disciplined, highly skilled, and extremely loyal. But they did not start out that way. 1 Samuel 22:1-2 (above) tell us that when they first gathered to David, they were a rag tag bunch of misfits and outcasts. They were losers. What changed them? The powerful effect of great leadership. David led them with character and courage. He modeled high integrity and honor. And in the pressure cooker of their situation, David rubbed off on them.
Application: Great leaders make their followers great. But it takes time and consistent interaction, especially through difficult times. Think of what David and these men went through. They were hunted down like animals. They had to go into exile and operate covertly against Israel's enemies while living among them. Their lives where in danger from all sides. Great character, like a diamond, is forged in deep places of great heat and enormous pressure. David's mighty men became great in character like diamonds. May we be willing to be likewise formed.
Prayer: Lord, help us to welcome all who seek our comradeship. May we find the diamond within every individual, without regard to any person's original condition. Thank You, Lord, that You know how to bring the heat and pressure to bear upon us in such a way that we come forth better. And thank You for those who model greatness and excellence of leadership in our lives. Help us to become mighty men and women — people worthy of our great Champion and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Title: The Root Problem / Topic: Character
Today's Reading: 2 Samuel 1; Psalm 140; Matthew 13
Scripture: Matthew 13:5-6, 20-21
5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root...
20 The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.
Observation: "No root." That is how Jesus described the problem of this soil. That phrase intrigues me. What does it mean to have "no root" or to be "unrooted"? Well, the opposite, the word rooted, is defined as "having been established so solidly or strongly as to make dislodgment or change extremely difficult" and has the following synonyms: "entrenched, embedded, fixed, ingrained, lodged, founded, grounded, implanted, confirmed, defined, established, settled, and strengthened." So "no root" would be the opposite of all these things. It would be characterized by a lack of solidness, substance, and stability. A person with "no root" is also "shallow" or lacking depth.
Application: There are many applications of this particular observation.
First, the fact that this person has instant positive response but no long term fruit is a lesson to not get too excited about the first response. It is important to follow up with those who respond to assist them to grow. If subsequent growth is stunted or withering occurs, perhaps we can help this person identify the "root problem" (pun intended) and do a little cultivating of the soil of their character, assisting them in getting some of the rocks out and building a little depth into their lives.
Second, we all should do a little self-examination to see how we follow through on the truth we receive. (Maybe all of us have room for improvement on this one.) Ask, "Do I really make new truth a part of my life long-term?" I think that I can probably benefit from some rock removal of my own. How about you?
There's more here but this is supposed to be a devotional and not a book. So I'll end in prayer.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be firmly established in You. I want to be rooted and grounded and deep. And I want to lead those within my sphere of influence into the same. Help us to identify and remove the rocks out of our lives. Lord, speak to us about that right now. And give us courage and determination to get them out. May we make room for You to set deep roots that will support lasting, beautiful, fruitful growth.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 13:5-6, 20-21
5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root...
20 The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.
Observation: "No root." That is how Jesus described the problem of this soil. That phrase intrigues me. What does it mean to have "no root" or to be "unrooted"? Well, the opposite, the word rooted, is defined as "having been established so solidly or strongly as to make dislodgment or change extremely difficult" and has the following synonyms: "entrenched, embedded, fixed, ingrained, lodged, founded, grounded, implanted, confirmed, defined, established, settled, and strengthened." So "no root" would be the opposite of all these things. It would be characterized by a lack of solidness, substance, and stability. A person with "no root" is also "shallow" or lacking depth.
Application: There are many applications of this particular observation.
First, the fact that this person has instant positive response but no long term fruit is a lesson to not get too excited about the first response. It is important to follow up with those who respond to assist them to grow. If subsequent growth is stunted or withering occurs, perhaps we can help this person identify the "root problem" (pun intended) and do a little cultivating of the soil of their character, assisting them in getting some of the rocks out and building a little depth into their lives.
Second, we all should do a little self-examination to see how we follow through on the truth we receive. (Maybe all of us have room for improvement on this one.) Ask, "Do I really make new truth a part of my life long-term?" I think that I can probably benefit from some rock removal of my own. How about you?
There's more here but this is supposed to be a devotional and not a book. So I'll end in prayer.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be firmly established in You. I want to be rooted and grounded and deep. And I want to lead those within my sphere of influence into the same. Help us to identify and remove the rocks out of our lives. Lord, speak to us about that right now. And give us courage and determination to get them out. May we make room for You to set deep roots that will support lasting, beautiful, fruitful growth.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Title: The Perfection Police / Topic: Spirtual Blindness
Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 30; 1 Samuel 31; 1 Chronicles 10; Matthew 12
Scripture: Matthew 12:13-14
13 Then [Jesus] said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." So he stretched it out and it was completely restored, just as sound as the other. 14 But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus.
Observation: The contrast here is vivid! Light vs. darkness, healing vs. murder, love vs. hate. Jesus healing of a man with a deformed hand was not welcomed by these religious leaders. No, they were angry that Jesus healed because it was Saturday. And Saturday was a day set apart for God. Of course everybody knows what that means: "ABSOLUTELY NO HEALINGS!" I find it so bizarre that the Pharisees could not realize that if someone was healed on the Sabbath, that God must have been OK with it because God was the one doing the healing. But these Pharisees had created substitutes for true Godliness and Jesus had just violated one of the biggies. So they wanted to murder Him.
Application: Watch out for what I call a religious spirit. It's primary symptom is spiritual blindness which is directly proportional to an inordinate concern over trivial matters. You can do really wonderful things, like Jesus did here - healing this man, but those with a religious spirit will pick at you and find fault with some small detail. And it's not just others we need to worry about. You can find yourself slipping into the fault-finding mode and becoming a critic of other Christians, ministries, or ministers. Watch out! God didn't call anybody to be the Perfection Police. The Bible says to keep a right spirit and to "watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." Look to see how people are getting healed, or blessed, or helped, or saved. Find the reason to rejoice and avoid the critical spirit.
Prayer: Lord, when I see Jesus doing such wonderful miracles and His critics attacking Him, I am always surprised. I know I shouldn't be because I have also encountered the same kind of spiritual blindness and controlling spirits. Help us to keep doing right, regardless of the opposition. And keep us focusing on Your approval and not looking to those who seem to be religious for theirs. I pray that we too may have the privilege and joy of being chastised for many unapproved miracles. May it come to pass.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 12:13-14
13 Then [Jesus] said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." So he stretched it out and it was completely restored, just as sound as the other. 14 But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus.
Observation: The contrast here is vivid! Light vs. darkness, healing vs. murder, love vs. hate. Jesus healing of a man with a deformed hand was not welcomed by these religious leaders. No, they were angry that Jesus healed because it was Saturday. And Saturday was a day set apart for God. Of course everybody knows what that means: "ABSOLUTELY NO HEALINGS!" I find it so bizarre that the Pharisees could not realize that if someone was healed on the Sabbath, that God must have been OK with it because God was the one doing the healing. But these Pharisees had created substitutes for true Godliness and Jesus had just violated one of the biggies. So they wanted to murder Him.
Application: Watch out for what I call a religious spirit. It's primary symptom is spiritual blindness which is directly proportional to an inordinate concern over trivial matters. You can do really wonderful things, like Jesus did here - healing this man, but those with a religious spirit will pick at you and find fault with some small detail. And it's not just others we need to worry about. You can find yourself slipping into the fault-finding mode and becoming a critic of other Christians, ministries, or ministers. Watch out! God didn't call anybody to be the Perfection Police. The Bible says to keep a right spirit and to "watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." Look to see how people are getting healed, or blessed, or helped, or saved. Find the reason to rejoice and avoid the critical spirit.
Prayer: Lord, when I see Jesus doing such wonderful miracles and His critics attacking Him, I am always surprised. I know I shouldn't be because I have also encountered the same kind of spiritual blindness and controlling spirits. Help us to keep doing right, regardless of the opposition. And keep us focusing on Your approval and not looking to those who seem to be religious for theirs. I pray that we too may have the privilege and joy of being chastised for many unapproved miracles. May it come to pass.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Title: Ghosts & Hauntings / Topic: The Spirit World
Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 28; 1 Samuel 29; Psalm 109; Matthew 11
Scripture: 1 Samuel 28:8-19 (excerpts)
8 So Saul disguised himself, putting on other clothes, and at night he and two men went to the woman. "Consult a spirit for me," he said, "and bring up for me the one I name."... 11 Then the woman asked, "Whom shall I bring up for you?" "Bring up Samuel," he said. 12 When the woman saw Samuel, she cried out at the top of her voice and said to Saul, "Why have you deceived me? You are Saul!" 13 The king said to her, "Don't be afraid. What do you see?" The woman said, "I see a spirit coming up out of the ground." 14 "What does he look like?" he asked. "An old man wearing a robe is coming up," she said. Then Saul knew it was Samuel, and he bowed down and prostrated himself with his face to the ground.
15 Samuel said to Saul, "Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?" "I am in great distress," Saul said. "The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has turned away from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do." 16 Samuel said, "Why do you consult me, now that the LORD has turned away from you and become your enemy? 17 The LORD has done what he predicted through me. The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors — to David. 18 Because you did not obey the LORD or carry out his fierce wrath against the Amalekites, the LORD has done this to you today. 19 The LORD will hand over both Israel and you to the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The LORD will also hand over the army of Israel to the Philistines."
Observation: What a bizarre story. But what this story reminds me of is how little we really know about the afterlife. Here is the ghost of Samuel, being called up by a spiritist and speaking to King Saul. Samuel's ghost rebukes Saul and prophecies his death and the death of his sons as well as the defeat of the army of Israel. And everything came to pass as Samuel said. (Some teachers have said that this is not really Samuel's ghost but I see nothing in the text to indicate that.) The point is that we just have a lack of knowledge in the area of the spirit-world of the dead. I have disbelieved any talk of ghosts or hauntings, but I have heard from Christian missionaries and others of encounters with lingering spirits from areas where horrible killings had been committed, and these reports have made me reevaluate my position. I'm not saying that I swallow every ghost story, but I think that in light of this story in today's reading, we should realize that there is activity among the spirits of the dead that we know virtually nothing about.
Application: Serve Jesus. Believe in Him. Trust in God's word. And keep your mind and heart open to what is going on in our world today. The world is tuning in to matters of the spirit world and the Bible has the answers people are looking for. We need to prepare ourselves to give and answer to the questions people will ask. And we need to stay humble and admit that while God knows everything, "we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror" (1 Corinthians 13:12).
Prayer: Lord, we have so much to learn. Teach us and open us up to Your truth. Help us to apply the truth we have and show us more. I thank You that our lives are in Your hands and as we trust in You, we can be assured of a home in heaven with You. Lead us on the path to our eternal home.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 28:8-19 (excerpts)
8 So Saul disguised himself, putting on other clothes, and at night he and two men went to the woman. "Consult a spirit for me," he said, "and bring up for me the one I name."... 11 Then the woman asked, "Whom shall I bring up for you?" "Bring up Samuel," he said. 12 When the woman saw Samuel, she cried out at the top of her voice and said to Saul, "Why have you deceived me? You are Saul!" 13 The king said to her, "Don't be afraid. What do you see?" The woman said, "I see a spirit coming up out of the ground." 14 "What does he look like?" he asked. "An old man wearing a robe is coming up," she said. Then Saul knew it was Samuel, and he bowed down and prostrated himself with his face to the ground.
15 Samuel said to Saul, "Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?" "I am in great distress," Saul said. "The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has turned away from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do." 16 Samuel said, "Why do you consult me, now that the LORD has turned away from you and become your enemy? 17 The LORD has done what he predicted through me. The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors — to David. 18 Because you did not obey the LORD or carry out his fierce wrath against the Amalekites, the LORD has done this to you today. 19 The LORD will hand over both Israel and you to the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The LORD will also hand over the army of Israel to the Philistines."
Observation: What a bizarre story. But what this story reminds me of is how little we really know about the afterlife. Here is the ghost of Samuel, being called up by a spiritist and speaking to King Saul. Samuel's ghost rebukes Saul and prophecies his death and the death of his sons as well as the defeat of the army of Israel. And everything came to pass as Samuel said. (Some teachers have said that this is not really Samuel's ghost but I see nothing in the text to indicate that.) The point is that we just have a lack of knowledge in the area of the spirit-world of the dead. I have disbelieved any talk of ghosts or hauntings, but I have heard from Christian missionaries and others of encounters with lingering spirits from areas where horrible killings had been committed, and these reports have made me reevaluate my position. I'm not saying that I swallow every ghost story, but I think that in light of this story in today's reading, we should realize that there is activity among the spirits of the dead that we know virtually nothing about.
Application: Serve Jesus. Believe in Him. Trust in God's word. And keep your mind and heart open to what is going on in our world today. The world is tuning in to matters of the spirit world and the Bible has the answers people are looking for. We need to prepare ourselves to give and answer to the questions people will ask. And we need to stay humble and admit that while God knows everything, "we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror" (1 Corinthians 13:12).
Prayer: Lord, we have so much to learn. Teach us and open us up to Your truth. Help us to apply the truth we have and show us more. I thank You that our lives are in Your hands and as we trust in You, we can be assured of a home in heaven with You. Lead us on the path to our eternal home.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Title: Jesus Is No Beggar / Topic: The Call
Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 27; Psalm 141; 1 Chronicles 9; Matthew 10
Scripture: Matthew 10:37-39
37 "Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."
Observation: These are powerful words. So often we present the opportunity to receive Christ to people as if Jesus is begging for supporters. Here Jesus is clearly not begging. He is setting a high standard that is challenging and He is telling His followers, "Listen, if you can't put me first then you don't deserve me!" Sounds kind of harsh and demanding, don't you think? Jesus did not mess around with soft-soaping the call to follow Him. Following Jesus meant death. Death to self and even, very likely, physical death.
Application: We need to rethink the low-threshold approach to evangelism that most of us use. It's as if we have been saying, "Please accept Jesus -- He's waiting on your approval to have the privilege to serve you." Am I overstating it? I don't think so. And we need to do something to change it. We must start by evaluating our own level of commitment to Jesus -- solidify that so it measures up to the demands of scripture, then call and challenge others to this highest and most noble of destinies: to be a servant of the Living God.
Prayer: Lord, may we live to please You. Forgive us for the lax way that we have given the call. Help us to get it right, with a high calling but with the winsome grace that You offer to draw even the wounded. We want to love You more than anyone or anything else. And we want to lead others in the same. With Your help we will succeed.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 10:37-39
37 "Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."
Observation: These are powerful words. So often we present the opportunity to receive Christ to people as if Jesus is begging for supporters. Here Jesus is clearly not begging. He is setting a high standard that is challenging and He is telling His followers, "Listen, if you can't put me first then you don't deserve me!" Sounds kind of harsh and demanding, don't you think? Jesus did not mess around with soft-soaping the call to follow Him. Following Jesus meant death. Death to self and even, very likely, physical death.
Application: We need to rethink the low-threshold approach to evangelism that most of us use. It's as if we have been saying, "Please accept Jesus -- He's waiting on your approval to have the privilege to serve you." Am I overstating it? I don't think so. And we need to do something to change it. We must start by evaluating our own level of commitment to Jesus -- solidify that so it measures up to the demands of scripture, then call and challenge others to this highest and most noble of destinies: to be a servant of the Living God.
Prayer: Lord, may we live to please You. Forgive us for the lax way that we have given the call. Help us to get it right, with a high calling but with the winsome grace that You offer to draw even the wounded. We want to love You more than anyone or anything else. And we want to lead others in the same. With Your help we will succeed.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Title: A Boy Named Fool / Topic: The Power of Names
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 25; 1 Samuel 26; Psalm 63; Matthew 9
Scripture: 1 Samuel 25:25 May my lord pay no attention to that wicked man Nabal. He is just like his name — his name is Fool, and folly goes with him...
Observation: It doesn't sound very nice. A woman is describing her husband and she says, "He is just like his name - his name is Fool!" But Abagail said that to save the life of her husband who indeed was a fool. Apparently his name, Nabal, means "fool". Now I don't know why a parent would name a child "Fool." Maybe it was a joke. Or maybe they were mad or in a bad mood. But names have power. And God gave people the power to name things. Adam was given the power to name the animals. Parents are given the right to name their children. Unfortunately, some people don't do their children any favors with the names they give them. (Last June famous comic/magician Penn Jillette, of Penn and Teller fame, and his wife Emily gave their firstborn child the name Moxie CrimeFighter Jillette. That's right: first name, Moxie; middle name, CrimeFighter; last name, Jillette. "Thanks a lot, mom and dad!")
Application: What we call people matters. Not just the names, but the descriptive words as well. If a child is told, "you're stupid" or "you're ugly" or "you were an accident," those hurtful words will have a negative effect on that child. When we jokingly call someone a loser or a fool, we are speaking something negative into their life which can bring about negative results. Bottom line: be careful about the words you use regarding others. Be positive and loving. Be encouraging. If you can't say something good, then think a little harder because I know that there's almost always a way to say something good. Let's look for that and say it and use our words to bless and encourage one another.
Prayer: Lord, may I be used of You to make a positive impact on those you bring into my life. May I offer words of life, hope, and encouragement, to all I meet. Make me a plus in the lives of those around me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 25:25 May my lord pay no attention to that wicked man Nabal. He is just like his name — his name is Fool, and folly goes with him...
Observation: It doesn't sound very nice. A woman is describing her husband and she says, "He is just like his name - his name is Fool!" But Abagail said that to save the life of her husband who indeed was a fool. Apparently his name, Nabal, means "fool". Now I don't know why a parent would name a child "Fool." Maybe it was a joke. Or maybe they were mad or in a bad mood. But names have power. And God gave people the power to name things. Adam was given the power to name the animals. Parents are given the right to name their children. Unfortunately, some people don't do their children any favors with the names they give them. (Last June famous comic/magician Penn Jillette, of Penn and Teller fame, and his wife Emily gave their firstborn child the name Moxie CrimeFighter Jillette. That's right: first name, Moxie; middle name, CrimeFighter; last name, Jillette. "Thanks a lot, mom and dad!")
Application: What we call people matters. Not just the names, but the descriptive words as well. If a child is told, "you're stupid" or "you're ugly" or "you were an accident," those hurtful words will have a negative effect on that child. When we jokingly call someone a loser or a fool, we are speaking something negative into their life which can bring about negative results. Bottom line: be careful about the words you use regarding others. Be positive and loving. Be encouraging. If you can't say something good, then think a little harder because I know that there's almost always a way to say something good. Let's look for that and say it and use our words to bless and encourage one another.
Prayer: Lord, may I be used of You to make a positive impact on those you bring into my life. May I offer words of life, hope, and encouragement, to all I meet. Make me a plus in the lives of those around me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Title: Repect For The Un-Respectable / Topic: Authority
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 24; Psalm 57; Psalm 58; 1 Chronicles 8; Matthew 8
Scripture: 1 Samuel 24:3-7
3 He came to the sheep pens along the way; a cave was there, and Saul went in to relieve himself. David and his men were far back in the cave. 4 The men said, "This is the day the LORD spoke of when he said to you, 'I will give your enemy into your hands for you to deal with as you wish.' " Then David crept up unnoticed and cut off a corner of Saul's robe.
5 Afterward, David was conscience-stricken for having cut off a corner of his robe. 6 He said to his men, "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD's anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the anointed of the LORD." 7 With these words David rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way.
Observation: David does an amazing thing here. He shows us how to live out the truth of respect for and submission to authority even when the person in the position of authority is in the wrong. If ever a person had cause to disrespect authority and to reject it, David did. Saul had accused him of disloyalty for no cause whatever and was hunting David down to kill him. But here David shows incredible depth of character. As Saul goes into a cave to "relieve himself" (i.e. go potty) David is there and could kill Saul easily. (And it would be acceptable in the laws of combat because Saul is out on a mission hunting down David to kill him.) David's men urge him to kill Saul. But David only sneaks up and cuts off a corner from Saul's robe. Even this minor infraction causes David pangs of guilt! David's statement in verse 6 is deep. Saul is "the Lord's anointed" even though his actions are reprehensible. David knows that it is God's business to deal with Saul and he lets his men know that even though Saul is trying to kill him, he will not kill Saul.
Application: This is a tough lesson, but it is gets down to the nitty gritty in our hearts. When people attack us, what should we do? Do we take matters into our own hands or do we trust something else? The natural human inclination is to retaliate. But David demonstrates God's character by "turning the other cheek". He lives out the truth that Jesus teaches about loving your enemies: "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that. (Luke 6:32-33)
And there is an added dimension here: authority. Saul is the king, even though he is abusing his authority. And David shows how to appeal to authority rather than rebelling against it. When a person in a position of authority (such a parent, pastor, teacher, or judge) mistreats us, we need to consider carefully how to respond. David clearly shows us that the person's misuse of his authority does not justify retaliation in kind. God is over that person's authority and we must submit to God and appeal to Him in finding the right and respectful approach in dealing with the offense against us.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the lesson we see here. Give us wisdom to respond as You would have us do when treated inappropriately by a person in authority. Help us to respectfully appeal to You and to others in authority to rectify the problem. And forgive us for the times that we have taken matters into our own hands and come against those who You have placed in authority in our lives. And give us hearts like of David that we may honor You through all the difficulties of life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 24:3-7
3 He came to the sheep pens along the way; a cave was there, and Saul went in to relieve himself. David and his men were far back in the cave. 4 The men said, "This is the day the LORD spoke of when he said to you, 'I will give your enemy into your hands for you to deal with as you wish.' " Then David crept up unnoticed and cut off a corner of Saul's robe.
5 Afterward, David was conscience-stricken for having cut off a corner of his robe. 6 He said to his men, "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD's anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the anointed of the LORD." 7 With these words David rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way.
Observation: David does an amazing thing here. He shows us how to live out the truth of respect for and submission to authority even when the person in the position of authority is in the wrong. If ever a person had cause to disrespect authority and to reject it, David did. Saul had accused him of disloyalty for no cause whatever and was hunting David down to kill him. But here David shows incredible depth of character. As Saul goes into a cave to "relieve himself" (i.e. go potty) David is there and could kill Saul easily. (And it would be acceptable in the laws of combat because Saul is out on a mission hunting down David to kill him.) David's men urge him to kill Saul. But David only sneaks up and cuts off a corner from Saul's robe. Even this minor infraction causes David pangs of guilt! David's statement in verse 6 is deep. Saul is "the Lord's anointed" even though his actions are reprehensible. David knows that it is God's business to deal with Saul and he lets his men know that even though Saul is trying to kill him, he will not kill Saul.
Application: This is a tough lesson, but it is gets down to the nitty gritty in our hearts. When people attack us, what should we do? Do we take matters into our own hands or do we trust something else? The natural human inclination is to retaliate. But David demonstrates God's character by "turning the other cheek". He lives out the truth that Jesus teaches about loving your enemies: "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that. (Luke 6:32-33)
And there is an added dimension here: authority. Saul is the king, even though he is abusing his authority. And David shows how to appeal to authority rather than rebelling against it. When a person in a position of authority (such a parent, pastor, teacher, or judge) mistreats us, we need to consider carefully how to respond. David clearly shows us that the person's misuse of his authority does not justify retaliation in kind. God is over that person's authority and we must submit to God and appeal to Him in finding the right and respectful approach in dealing with the offense against us.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the lesson we see here. Give us wisdom to respond as You would have us do when treated inappropriately by a person in authority. Help us to respectfully appeal to You and to others in authority to rectify the problem. And forgive us for the times that we have taken matters into our own hands and come against those who You have placed in authority in our lives. And give us hearts like of David that we may honor You through all the difficulties of life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Title: How To Judge / Topic: Judging
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 23; Psalm 31; Psalm 54; Matthew 7
Scripture: Matthew 7:1-6
1 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3 "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
6 "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces."
Observation and Application: It is quite common today to hear people quote the first part of verse 1: "You know the Bible says, 'don't judge!'" But that is only a part of what Jesus said here. In fact, while Jesus starts out by saying, "Do not judge," He ends us telling us that we should judge, we need to judge -- but in the right way! Let me list the points:
1) Hold yourself to the same standards that you expect of others. The old saying, "do as I say, not as I do" doesn't cut it. This message is in verses 2, 3, 4, and 5.
2) Deal with your own stuff first. Most people can see the little things in others while they ignore big problems of their own. And the illustration Jesus uses here is hilarious. One guy has a tiny speck of sawdust in his eye and this other guy is trying to pull it out but he has a big honkin' log hanging out of his eye. Yeah! It's quite a picture. This is in verses 3,4, and 5.
3) Help the other guy. Jesus clearly says that once we have worked out our own issues, we need to deal with our friend. But not as a condemning prosecutor. No, we need to help as a brother. Judgment is observation with value applied. I want my brothers and sisters to observe me and apply our shared values to what they observe. Where I am inconsistent, I want to know it so I can fix it.
4) Don't bother with people who don't want to change. Jesus calls these people dogs and pigs. This is a little brutal but it's true. I have met quite a few of this type of person. All my attempts to help such people have done no good and have caused me a lot of grief. Jesus was right. You have to have discretion and discernment in whom you bless with your value observations. In other words, even when you are judging rightly with helpful motives, be careful.
Prayer: Lord, make us better in the way we help others. May we have eyes to see our own issues, and hearts to fix our brokenness. Give us keys to make breakthroughs in our tough areas. And give us wisdom and skill in helping others to receive as we judge rightly. Help us all to be more like You every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 7:1-6
1 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3 "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
6 "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces."
Observation and Application: It is quite common today to hear people quote the first part of verse 1: "You know the Bible says, 'don't judge!'" But that is only a part of what Jesus said here. In fact, while Jesus starts out by saying, "Do not judge," He ends us telling us that we should judge, we need to judge -- but in the right way! Let me list the points:
1) Hold yourself to the same standards that you expect of others. The old saying, "do as I say, not as I do" doesn't cut it. This message is in verses 2, 3, 4, and 5.
2) Deal with your own stuff first. Most people can see the little things in others while they ignore big problems of their own. And the illustration Jesus uses here is hilarious. One guy has a tiny speck of sawdust in his eye and this other guy is trying to pull it out but he has a big honkin' log hanging out of his eye. Yeah! It's quite a picture. This is in verses 3,4, and 5.
3) Help the other guy. Jesus clearly says that once we have worked out our own issues, we need to deal with our friend. But not as a condemning prosecutor. No, we need to help as a brother. Judgment is observation with value applied. I want my brothers and sisters to observe me and apply our shared values to what they observe. Where I am inconsistent, I want to know it so I can fix it.
4) Don't bother with people who don't want to change. Jesus calls these people dogs and pigs. This is a little brutal but it's true. I have met quite a few of this type of person. All my attempts to help such people have done no good and have caused me a lot of grief. Jesus was right. You have to have discretion and discernment in whom you bless with your value observations. In other words, even when you are judging rightly with helpful motives, be careful.
Prayer: Lord, make us better in the way we help others. May we have eyes to see our own issues, and hearts to fix our brokenness. Give us keys to make breakthroughs in our tough areas. And give us wisdom and skill in helping others to receive as we judge rightly. Help us all to be more like You every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Title: I'll Take Mine To Go / Topic: Eternal Rewards
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 22; Psalm 17; Psalm 35; Matthew 6
Scripture: Psalm 17:14 O LORD, by your hand save me from such men, from men of this world whose reward is in this life.
Observation: David understood that true fulfillment is not to be found in this life. We can experience a degree of blessing (and certainly our relationship with the Lord can be truly great) but all of what we experience here pales in comparison to the fullness to be received in the hereafter. The people who believe that their reward is here live for today, striving for fame and fortune, power and pleasure. And to them, the ends justify the means.
Application: But for us, the goal is our eternal reward to be received from God. Therefore, we aren't surprised if everything isn't peaches and cream here. When opposition or hardship confront us, we expect them and we look past the immediate to the ultimate. We hang in there because there is a greater reward coming. Understanding this truth is essential to glad endurance of the testings and trials of this life and for loving and forgiving those who misuse and mistreat us. We have something so much greater to look forward to. Be joyful.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord that You have created a system that those who love You and follow You can be assured that the greatest things are yet to come. You are paying attention to what is going on and You will bring the consequences of every person's life - rewards and punishments - to them. Lord, help me to lay up for myself treasures in heaven - and help me to use the treasures You give me here to bless others and further Your good purposes for this planet.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 17:14 O LORD, by your hand save me from such men, from men of this world whose reward is in this life.
Observation: David understood that true fulfillment is not to be found in this life. We can experience a degree of blessing (and certainly our relationship with the Lord can be truly great) but all of what we experience here pales in comparison to the fullness to be received in the hereafter. The people who believe that their reward is here live for today, striving for fame and fortune, power and pleasure. And to them, the ends justify the means.
Application: But for us, the goal is our eternal reward to be received from God. Therefore, we aren't surprised if everything isn't peaches and cream here. When opposition or hardship confront us, we expect them and we look past the immediate to the ultimate. We hang in there because there is a greater reward coming. Understanding this truth is essential to glad endurance of the testings and trials of this life and for loving and forgiving those who misuse and mistreat us. We have something so much greater to look forward to. Be joyful.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord that You have created a system that those who love You and follow You can be assured that the greatest things are yet to come. You are paying attention to what is going on and You will bring the consequences of every person's life - rewards and punishments - to them. Lord, help me to lay up for myself treasures in heaven - and help me to use the treasures You give me here to bless others and further Your good purposes for this planet.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Title: Perfection Required / Topic: Divine Qualification
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 20; 1 Samuel 21; Psalm 34; Matthew 5
Scripture: Matthew 5:17, 20-22
17 "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them...
20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.
21 "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment... ...anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell."
Observation: Law vs. Grace. There have been debates over this subject as long as there has been church. Jesus says that He didn't come to get rid of the law but to fulfill it. And verse 20 is a doosie. If I can't outperform a Pharisee, I can't make it in the kingdom of God! Then Jesus goes even further -- He expands the meaning of the law beyond action (murder) into attitudes (hate) and words ("fool"), making it even more impossible for me to get it done. What am I to do?
Application: I think that Jesus is making a point that it is impossible for humans to get to heaven on the basis of good behavior. He says that our actions have to be absolutely perfect, plus our thoughts need to be completely pure and positive, plus our words must always bless! If this level of perfection is the standard for heaven, I'm doomed! And that is exactly the point that Jesus is making. I am totally dependent on Jesus for my divine qualification. Outside of Him, there is no basis for me to stand before God. The sooner I understand that, the more I can make use of what Jesus has to offer. He fulfilled the law and the prophets completely. I can't improve on it. I try to walk in obedience to the law as Jesus explained it, but I fail, and my failings illustrate my need of Jesus. What am I to do? Call on Jesus. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness." He carries me into the place of right standing before God. I just have to get to Him, as I trust in and submit to Him, He will take me the rest of the way.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Jesus. Thank You for the provision of a way to come before You without shame and without fear. I trust in Jesus as my Savior and Lord and I ask You to help me to trust and obey Him in all things. Thank You for establishing righteous standard to create a perfect heaven. And thank You for creating a way through Jesus by which I can come there. May I walk in a way that pleases You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 5:17, 20-22
17 "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them...
20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.
21 "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment... ...anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell."
Observation: Law vs. Grace. There have been debates over this subject as long as there has been church. Jesus says that He didn't come to get rid of the law but to fulfill it. And verse 20 is a doosie. If I can't outperform a Pharisee, I can't make it in the kingdom of God! Then Jesus goes even further -- He expands the meaning of the law beyond action (murder) into attitudes (hate) and words ("fool"), making it even more impossible for me to get it done. What am I to do?
Application: I think that Jesus is making a point that it is impossible for humans to get to heaven on the basis of good behavior. He says that our actions have to be absolutely perfect, plus our thoughts need to be completely pure and positive, plus our words must always bless! If this level of perfection is the standard for heaven, I'm doomed! And that is exactly the point that Jesus is making. I am totally dependent on Jesus for my divine qualification. Outside of Him, there is no basis for me to stand before God. The sooner I understand that, the more I can make use of what Jesus has to offer. He fulfilled the law and the prophets completely. I can't improve on it. I try to walk in obedience to the law as Jesus explained it, but I fail, and my failings illustrate my need of Jesus. What am I to do? Call on Jesus. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness." He carries me into the place of right standing before God. I just have to get to Him, as I trust in and submit to Him, He will take me the rest of the way.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Jesus. Thank You for the provision of a way to come before You without shame and without fear. I trust in Jesus as my Savior and Lord and I ask You to help me to trust and obey Him in all things. Thank You for establishing righteous standard to create a perfect heaven. And thank You for creating a way through Jesus by which I can come there. May I walk in a way that pleases You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Title: The God Moment / Topic: Opportunity
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4
Scripture: Matthew 4:18, 21
18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen...
21 Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets...
Observation: Jesus is just walking along the seashore not far from where He lives. He sees some fishermen. The first two are brothers named Peter and Andrew. Another fishing crew is up ahead. Two more brothers, James and John, are working with their father. Just some guys fishing, right?
Application: Of course we know these fishermen. Peter, James, and John became the inner circle of Jesus’ disciples and Andrew also was a disciple. But in the story in today’s reading, they were just some guys on the seashore who Jesus happened to see. However, Jesus was in tune with His Father and this was a God moment. He called to these four men. He could have just said, “hello, how’s the fishing today?” but instead Jesus said, “follow me” and the rest is history. How many people will I meet today that need to hear something from God? Could I be the one to speak a message from God to them? Could I be like Jesus and say just the thing that calls them to a completely new life? What most people would see as just a stroll along the beach, Jesus understood to be an opportunity for a divine appointment.
Prayer: Lord, open me up to see the divine appointments You bring across my path. I don’t want to miss hearing from You and bringing Your message to those I meet along the way. Give me the vision to see and the words to say. I ask You to use me in drawing men and women, boys and girls to You. Help me not to miss those who may be like Peter, Andrew, James, and John -- just ordinary people who You call to an extraordinary destiny. Use me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 4:18, 21
18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen...
21 Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets...
Observation: Jesus is just walking along the seashore not far from where He lives. He sees some fishermen. The first two are brothers named Peter and Andrew. Another fishing crew is up ahead. Two more brothers, James and John, are working with their father. Just some guys fishing, right?
Application: Of course we know these fishermen. Peter, James, and John became the inner circle of Jesus’ disciples and Andrew also was a disciple. But in the story in today’s reading, they were just some guys on the seashore who Jesus happened to see. However, Jesus was in tune with His Father and this was a God moment. He called to these four men. He could have just said, “hello, how’s the fishing today?” but instead Jesus said, “follow me” and the rest is history. How many people will I meet today that need to hear something from God? Could I be the one to speak a message from God to them? Could I be like Jesus and say just the thing that calls them to a completely new life? What most people would see as just a stroll along the beach, Jesus understood to be an opportunity for a divine appointment.
Prayer: Lord, open me up to see the divine appointments You bring across my path. I don’t want to miss hearing from You and bringing Your message to those I meet along the way. Give me the vision to see and the words to say. I ask You to use me in drawing men and women, boys and girls to You. Help me not to miss those who may be like Peter, Andrew, James, and John -- just ordinary people who You call to an extraordinary destiny. Use me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Title: Dotting Every "i" / Topic: Diligence
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 18; 1 Chronicles 6; Psalm 11; Matthew 3
[Today is Easter -- Resurrection Day. This is the one specific day that we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. But as Christians, we should live every day in the power of the resurrection. It is newness of life that should characterize every person who claims Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.]
Scripture: Matthew 3:13-15
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.
Observation: Jesus could have said, "John, you're right. Being perfect and all, I guess I don't really need baptism after all." But He didn't say that. He said, "let's do things right in every way." He didn't cut any corners. Did Jesus do that because He needed it? No, He did it for us.
Application: So any time you're tempted to say, "I don't really need to go to Bible Study", or "I can skip prayer today", or "I'm sure the meeting is for weaker Christians", think again. If Jesus didn't cut corners, then neither should we. He was perfect and sinless, yet He was concerned about meeting all the requirements, about dotting every "i" and crossing every "t". We too should strive to do everything we can to grow -- not only the right things, but doing them well and with good motives. If I carefully follow everything God says to do, in a way that others perceive my diligence, I will be giving the best possible example for others and providing the best opportunity for myself as well.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that Jesus lived His life in the way He did. On this Resurrection Day I ask that You will help Your people to walk in Jesus' resurrection power and that we would follow His example of excellence. May we closely follow our risen and victorious Champion.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
[Today is Easter -- Resurrection Day. This is the one specific day that we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. But as Christians, we should live every day in the power of the resurrection. It is newness of life that should characterize every person who claims Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.]
Scripture: Matthew 3:13-15
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.
Observation: Jesus could have said, "John, you're right. Being perfect and all, I guess I don't really need baptism after all." But He didn't say that. He said, "let's do things right in every way." He didn't cut any corners. Did Jesus do that because He needed it? No, He did it for us.
Application: So any time you're tempted to say, "I don't really need to go to Bible Study", or "I can skip prayer today", or "I'm sure the meeting is for weaker Christians", think again. If Jesus didn't cut corners, then neither should we. He was perfect and sinless, yet He was concerned about meeting all the requirements, about dotting every "i" and crossing every "t". We too should strive to do everything we can to grow -- not only the right things, but doing them well and with good motives. If I carefully follow everything God says to do, in a way that others perceive my diligence, I will be giving the best possible example for others and providing the best opportunity for myself as well.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that Jesus lived His life in the way He did. On this Resurrection Day I ask that You will help Your people to walk in Jesus' resurrection power and that we would follow His example of excellence. May we closely follow our risen and victorious Champion.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Title: Who’s Your Daddy / Topic: Training
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 17; Psalm 9; Matthew 2
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:55-58
55 As Saul watched David going out to meet the Philistine, he said to Abner, commander of the army, "Abner, whose son is that young man?"
Abner replied, "As surely as you live, O king, I don't know."
56 The king said, "Find out whose son this young man is."
57 As soon as David returned from killing the Philistine, Abner took him and brought him before Saul, with David still holding the Philistine's head.
58 "Whose son are you, young man?" Saul asked him.
David said, "I am the son of your servant Jesse of Bethlehem."
Observation: Whose son are you? That is the question that Saul wanted to know about David. Why? Because he wanted to know who David was. And in those days, they believed that if you knew the father, you understood the son.
I don’t think they were far off. The apple doesn’t far from the tree. But today, TV raises more children than fathers do. But if a person is truly raised and trained by someone, whether it’s a father or mentor or grandparent or coach, understanding the person would be greatly enhanced by knowing the trainer.
Application: We all have had significant people in our lives who have shaped and influenced us. You can’t choose your parents but even those who had an abusive upbringing have the opportunity to find someone to admire and follow. You and I have the power to decide just who it is we will put in that place in our lives. We choose our teachers. Who is it that you admire? Who is it that you have given the right to lead you and speak into your life? Some people think that they don’t have to have a person in that role. But that’s not true. If you have no person in that role then you are the person in that role. You are leading yourself and following yourself. I think this is not a good idea. So choose and choose well. Follow a person whose life demonstrates high character and healthy relationships. Learn to function and grow under the authority of a person who will place an indelible stamp of excellence and integrity on your life.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the excellent models You have given me. Lord, I ask that You would help all of us to find good people to lead us in Your ways. Thank You for faithful men and women who have blazed the trail before us. May we live in such a way as to bring honor to You and to our fathers in the faith.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:55-58
55 As Saul watched David going out to meet the Philistine, he said to Abner, commander of the army, "Abner, whose son is that young man?"
Abner replied, "As surely as you live, O king, I don't know."
56 The king said, "Find out whose son this young man is."
57 As soon as David returned from killing the Philistine, Abner took him and brought him before Saul, with David still holding the Philistine's head.
58 "Whose son are you, young man?" Saul asked him.
David said, "I am the son of your servant Jesse of Bethlehem."
Observation: Whose son are you? That is the question that Saul wanted to know about David. Why? Because he wanted to know who David was. And in those days, they believed that if you knew the father, you understood the son.
I don’t think they were far off. The apple doesn’t far from the tree. But today, TV raises more children than fathers do. But if a person is truly raised and trained by someone, whether it’s a father or mentor or grandparent or coach, understanding the person would be greatly enhanced by knowing the trainer.
Application: We all have had significant people in our lives who have shaped and influenced us. You can’t choose your parents but even those who had an abusive upbringing have the opportunity to find someone to admire and follow. You and I have the power to decide just who it is we will put in that place in our lives. We choose our teachers. Who is it that you admire? Who is it that you have given the right to lead you and speak into your life? Some people think that they don’t have to have a person in that role. But that’s not true. If you have no person in that role then you are the person in that role. You are leading yourself and following yourself. I think this is not a good idea. So choose and choose well. Follow a person whose life demonstrates high character and healthy relationships. Learn to function and grow under the authority of a person who will place an indelible stamp of excellence and integrity on your life.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the excellent models You have given me. Lord, I ask that You would help all of us to find good people to lead us in Your ways. Thank You for faithful men and women who have blazed the trail before us. May we live in such a way as to bring honor to You and to our fathers in the faith.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Title: Tall, Dark & Wrong / Topic: Discernment
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 15; 1 Samuel 16; 1 Chronicles 5; Matthew 1
Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:6-7
6 When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, "Surely the LORD's anointed stands here before the LORD."
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
Observation: Samuel jumps to a conclusion based on Eliab's appearance. He assumes that because Eliab is tall, dark, and handsome, he must the God's choice to succeed Saul as king. But God stops him and corrects him. And in doing so, the Lord tells us some very important things about Himself. Namely, that He has a different way of looking at things. God looks from the inside out. And He is training Samuel to grow in the ability to look at things that same way.
Application: God wants each of us to have His perspective on things -- especially the way we look at people. Studies have shown that more attractive children get better treatment from their teachers than less attractive kids. It's human nature to favor good looking people. We tend to think that people who look good are good. But God says no. Looks can be deceiving. There is a level of spiritual discernment that is available to His children to detect the inner condition of a person. I know that many times I have met people who looked fine on the outside but something didn't seem right. God was letting me know that I needed to pay attention to their inner condition so that I might be wise in my dealings with them. And the converse can also be true. People who look a little rough around the edges can be good as gold on the inside. Ask God to give you His heart and wisdom for people.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You function on a deeper level. You look at the heart. Help us to grow in our ability to see others as You see them and, more importantly, to love others as You do. Give greater discernment to Your people so we will not be taken in by the pretenders and we will not reject those "fixer-uppers" You bring our way.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:6-7
6 When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, "Surely the LORD's anointed stands here before the LORD."
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
Observation: Samuel jumps to a conclusion based on Eliab's appearance. He assumes that because Eliab is tall, dark, and handsome, he must the God's choice to succeed Saul as king. But God stops him and corrects him. And in doing so, the Lord tells us some very important things about Himself. Namely, that He has a different way of looking at things. God looks from the inside out. And He is training Samuel to grow in the ability to look at things that same way.
Application: God wants each of us to have His perspective on things -- especially the way we look at people. Studies have shown that more attractive children get better treatment from their teachers than less attractive kids. It's human nature to favor good looking people. We tend to think that people who look good are good. But God says no. Looks can be deceiving. There is a level of spiritual discernment that is available to His children to detect the inner condition of a person. I know that many times I have met people who looked fine on the outside but something didn't seem right. God was letting me know that I needed to pay attention to their inner condition so that I might be wise in my dealings with them. And the converse can also be true. People who look a little rough around the edges can be good as gold on the inside. Ask God to give you His heart and wisdom for people.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You function on a deeper level. You look at the heart. Help us to grow in our ability to see others as You see them and, more importantly, to love others as You do. Give greater discernment to Your people so we will not be taken in by the pretenders and we will not reject those "fixer-uppers" You bring our way.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Title: Faith & Action / Topic: Conviction
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 14; 1 Chronicles 4; 2 Corinthians 13
Scripture: 1 Samuel 14:6 Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, "Come, let's go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised fellows. Perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few."
Observation: I just love Jonathan. He is a goodhearted and brave young man who has a firm grip on faith. His statement here that “Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether my many or by few” shows such a great understanding of how God works on a practical level. I mean, Jonathan is not just talking theory here. He is contemplating an attack by himself and his armor bearer on an enemy outpost at the top of a cliff. In other words, he is willing to lay his life on the line based on his belief in God. That is conviction.
Application: It is easy to talk about God and to spout off statements of belief. “God is in control.” “I’m in God’s hands.” “With God’s help, anything is possible.” But it’s actually acting on my beliefs that really counts. The truth is, we only really believe the stuff we do. If we’re not willing to act on a belief, we should reevaluate whether we really believe it or not. I suggest that we should make sure it is consistent with God word and God’s ways, and then if it is, follow it with conviction.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be a man of action like Jonathan was. I want to stand up to my enemy and take him on in Your strength. Help me to lay hold of You and move boldly forward with strength, courage and conviction. May I walk in faith, not listening to fear.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 14:6 Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, "Come, let's go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised fellows. Perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few."
Observation: I just love Jonathan. He is a goodhearted and brave young man who has a firm grip on faith. His statement here that “Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether my many or by few” shows such a great understanding of how God works on a practical level. I mean, Jonathan is not just talking theory here. He is contemplating an attack by himself and his armor bearer on an enemy outpost at the top of a cliff. In other words, he is willing to lay his life on the line based on his belief in God. That is conviction.
Application: It is easy to talk about God and to spout off statements of belief. “God is in control.” “I’m in God’s hands.” “With God’s help, anything is possible.” But it’s actually acting on my beliefs that really counts. The truth is, we only really believe the stuff we do. If we’re not willing to act on a belief, we should reevaluate whether we really believe it or not. I suggest that we should make sure it is consistent with God word and God’s ways, and then if it is, follow it with conviction.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be a man of action like Jonathan was. I want to stand up to my enemy and take him on in Your strength. Help me to lay hold of You and move boldly forward with strength, courage and conviction. May I walk in faith, not listening to fear.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Title: Excuses For Sin / Topic: Rationalizing
Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 13; 1 Chronicles 2; 1 Chronicles 3; 2 Corinthians 12
[1 Chronicles chapters 2 & 3 are pretty boring. There may be a few interesting details, but by and large, it's tough reading. Just get through it.]
Scripture: 1 Samuel 13:7-13
7 ...Saul remained at Gilgal, and all the troops with him were quaking with fear. 8 He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and Saul's men began to scatter. 9 So he said, "Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings." And Saul offered up the burnt offering. 10 Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel arrived, and Saul went out to greet him. 11 "What have you done?" asked Samuel. Saul replied, "When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, 12 I thought, 'Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD's favor.' So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering." 13 "You acted foolishly," Samuel said. "You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you..."
Observation: This is a tough situation for Saul. He is badly outnumbered and forced to wait for Samuel who is late in coming. Of course, waiting around with nothing to do with an overwhelming adversary in your face is not good for morale! So Saul's undisciplined and unarmed troops start to melt away. (Actually, they did have rakes, shovels, hoes, pitchforks, and axes to fight with! Not good!) Like I said, this is a tough situation. So Saul impulsively decides to do something (since doing nothing isn't panning out so well) and he offers a burnt offering (which is not an item on the King of Israel Job Description). In fact, this is clearly a job only for the priest. Samuel shows up as soon as Saul finishes the offering. Saul tries to rationalize his actions and even blames Samuel (see verse 11) and insists he "felt compelled to offer the burnt offering." The result is his rejection as king. It's sad.
Application: Rationalizing: it's something most of us are pretty good at. But when we rationalize, we are trying to create reasons to make something that's not quite right sound like it's OK. Most of the time, rationalizing is a form of verbal gymnastics to justify sin. That's what it was for Saul. Saul did not stop and pray. He didn't ask God for wisdom. He didn't try to rally the troops with a stirring speech. He needed something exciting that would get the troops' attention. So he used a sacrifice to God as a tactic, or gimmick to mitigate his military losses. And that is not acceptable for a leader. God is not something that we can use for our ends, even if those ends are good. God can use me but I must never think that I can use Him. If I ever slip into thinking that, I am in danger. Saul neutralized his future and ultimately lost his kingdom and his life because of it.
Prayer: Lord, help me to pay attention to what You tell me to do and to do it carefully and diligently. May I not deviate from Your instruction into my own designs and schemes. I want to be a man after Your heart, that is pursuing You and Your ways with everything that is in me. Strengthen me for this pursuit.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
[1 Chronicles chapters 2 & 3 are pretty boring. There may be a few interesting details, but by and large, it's tough reading. Just get through it.]
Scripture: 1 Samuel 13:7-13
7 ...Saul remained at Gilgal, and all the troops with him were quaking with fear. 8 He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and Saul's men began to scatter. 9 So he said, "Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings." And Saul offered up the burnt offering. 10 Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel arrived, and Saul went out to greet him. 11 "What have you done?" asked Samuel. Saul replied, "When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, 12 I thought, 'Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD's favor.' So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering." 13 "You acted foolishly," Samuel said. "You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you..."
Observation: This is a tough situation for Saul. He is badly outnumbered and forced to wait for Samuel who is late in coming. Of course, waiting around with nothing to do with an overwhelming adversary in your face is not good for morale! So Saul's undisciplined and unarmed troops start to melt away. (Actually, they did have rakes, shovels, hoes, pitchforks, and axes to fight with! Not good!) Like I said, this is a tough situation. So Saul impulsively decides to do something (since doing nothing isn't panning out so well) and he offers a burnt offering (which is not an item on the King of Israel Job Description). In fact, this is clearly a job only for the priest. Samuel shows up as soon as Saul finishes the offering. Saul tries to rationalize his actions and even blames Samuel (see verse 11) and insists he "felt compelled to offer the burnt offering." The result is his rejection as king. It's sad.
Application: Rationalizing: it's something most of us are pretty good at. But when we rationalize, we are trying to create reasons to make something that's not quite right sound like it's OK. Most of the time, rationalizing is a form of verbal gymnastics to justify sin. That's what it was for Saul. Saul did not stop and pray. He didn't ask God for wisdom. He didn't try to rally the troops with a stirring speech. He needed something exciting that would get the troops' attention. So he used a sacrifice to God as a tactic, or gimmick to mitigate his military losses. And that is not acceptable for a leader. God is not something that we can use for our ends, even if those ends are good. God can use me but I must never think that I can use Him. If I ever slip into thinking that, I am in danger. Saul neutralized his future and ultimately lost his kingdom and his life because of it.
Prayer: Lord, help me to pay attention to what You tell me to do and to do it carefully and diligently. May I not deviate from Your instruction into my own designs and schemes. I want to be a man after Your heart, that is pursuing You and Your ways with everything that is in me. Strengthen me for this pursuit.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Title: The Things We Trust / Topic: Focus
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 11; 1 Samuel 12; 1 Chronicles 1; 2 Corinthians 11
Scripture: 1 Samuel 12:21 "Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless."
Observation: These words of Samuel bring me back. Other than God, there is nothing that can do me any good. I can seek after many things: money, stuff, toys, pleasures, experiences, friends. And none of these is bad in and of itself. But they are not going to carry me through the tough times of life. They are not going to rescue me. Only God can do that. Turning away from God is something that is easy to do. Something or someone catches our eye and our attention is drawn to seek after that. We lose our concentration and the things of the Lord get left behind. But the truth of the matter is that anything that draws my attention from God becomes a useless idol to me. And as simplistic as it sounds, it can’t do me any good because it’s useless.
Application: Trust in the Lord. Keep your focus sharp and your purpose clear. Don’t lose your concentration -- only God is worthy of your worship. Only God is worthy of your life’s pursuit. There is no shortage of stuff clamoring for your attention. But there is a still, small Voice that is the only one really worth listening to.
Prayer: Lord, help me to hear Your voice through the noisy clutter. I want to set aside time for You each day and allow my heart to settle into that place that centers and grounds my soul on the greater purpose for my life. I want to be rich in You and so connected to You that I clearly hear Your voice, know Your will, and feel Your heartbeat.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 12:21 "Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless."
Observation: These words of Samuel bring me back. Other than God, there is nothing that can do me any good. I can seek after many things: money, stuff, toys, pleasures, experiences, friends. And none of these is bad in and of itself. But they are not going to carry me through the tough times of life. They are not going to rescue me. Only God can do that. Turning away from God is something that is easy to do. Something or someone catches our eye and our attention is drawn to seek after that. We lose our concentration and the things of the Lord get left behind. But the truth of the matter is that anything that draws my attention from God becomes a useless idol to me. And as simplistic as it sounds, it can’t do me any good because it’s useless.
Application: Trust in the Lord. Keep your focus sharp and your purpose clear. Don’t lose your concentration -- only God is worthy of your worship. Only God is worthy of your life’s pursuit. There is no shortage of stuff clamoring for your attention. But there is a still, small Voice that is the only one really worth listening to.
Prayer: Lord, help me to hear Your voice through the noisy clutter. I want to set aside time for You each day and allow my heart to settle into that place that centers and grounds my soul on the greater purpose for my life. I want to be rich in You and so connected to You that I clearly hear Your voice, know Your will, and feel Your heartbeat.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Title: Fake Humility / Topic: Leadership
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 8; 1 Samuel 9; 1 Samuel 10; 2 Corinthians 10
Scripture: 1 Samuel 9:21 Saul answered, "But am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why do you say such a thing to me?"
Observation: When we first meet Saul, we are told he is the son of a respected "man of standing" and that there is no equal to him because he is "a head taller" than everybody else. Apparently that is the only real distinction that stands out (literally!) about Saul. But what really caught my attention is his response to Samuel here. Samuel has just told Saul that he is the choice for the new king. And look at Saul's response above. Re-read it now. Look carefully. It seems like humility at first glance. But there is nothing in there about how he personally is not up to the task. Read it again. It's all just a show if you ask me. It's the obligatory, "gee whiz, I can't believe you want li'l ole me to be king!?!" And, apparently, nobody picked up on it (and I wouldn't have either except that I'm looking for bad stuff in Saul since I know that he turns out so bad).
Application: True personal humility is a prerequisite for successful spiritual leadership. If a person starts by thinking that they would make a pretty good leader, they have a long way to go. People who feel ready aren't. But people who have had some tough experience and who have gotten in touch enough with themselves to know the bad stuff inside themselves are likely to say, "I don't think that I am ready to be a leader." That's a person that God can use because they don't fully trust in themselves and would likely turn to God. Saul did trust in himself as the story will show. He did what he thought best rather than waiting and obeying and trusting. I wonder, do I trust too much in myself? Do you?
Prayer: Lord, I am amazed that You have called me to lead. But sometimes I can get caught up in it all and just go on autopilot. I can forget to ask You what You want me to do. Help me, Lord, to be Your servant and to do Your will. And keep me aware of my complete inadequacy to do anything of eternal value without Your help. May I always walk humbly with You guiding and empowering me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 9:21 Saul answered, "But am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why do you say such a thing to me?"
Observation: When we first meet Saul, we are told he is the son of a respected "man of standing" and that there is no equal to him because he is "a head taller" than everybody else. Apparently that is the only real distinction that stands out (literally!) about Saul. But what really caught my attention is his response to Samuel here. Samuel has just told Saul that he is the choice for the new king. And look at Saul's response above. Re-read it now. Look carefully. It seems like humility at first glance. But there is nothing in there about how he personally is not up to the task. Read it again. It's all just a show if you ask me. It's the obligatory, "gee whiz, I can't believe you want li'l ole me to be king!?!" And, apparently, nobody picked up on it (and I wouldn't have either except that I'm looking for bad stuff in Saul since I know that he turns out so bad).
Application: True personal humility is a prerequisite for successful spiritual leadership. If a person starts by thinking that they would make a pretty good leader, they have a long way to go. People who feel ready aren't. But people who have had some tough experience and who have gotten in touch enough with themselves to know the bad stuff inside themselves are likely to say, "I don't think that I am ready to be a leader." That's a person that God can use because they don't fully trust in themselves and would likely turn to God. Saul did trust in himself as the story will show. He did what he thought best rather than waiting and obeying and trusting. I wonder, do I trust too much in myself? Do you?
Prayer: Lord, I am amazed that You have called me to lead. But sometimes I can get caught up in it all and just go on autopilot. I can forget to ask You what You want me to do. Help me, Lord, to be Your servant and to do Your will. And keep me aware of my complete inadequacy to do anything of eternal value without Your help. May I always walk humbly with You guiding and empowering me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Title: The Right Kind Of Fear / Topic: Respecting God
Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 6; 1 Samuel 7; Psalm 72; 2 Corinthians 9
Scripture: 1 Samuel 6:19-21
…God struck down some of the men of Beth Shemesh, putting seventy of them to death because they had looked unto the ark of the LORD. The people mourned because of the heavy blow the LORD had dealt them, and the men of Beth Shemesh asked, "Who can stand in the presence of the LORD, this holy God? To whom will the ark go up from here?" Then they sent messengers to the people of Kiriath Jearim, saying, "The Philistines have returned the ark of the LORD. Come down and take it up to your place."
Observation: As a child I never understood the phrase "the fear of the Lord." To me, "fear" was a bad thing. So how could "the fear of the Lord" be anything other than bad? Well, this story demonstrates the truth that the right kind of "the fear of the Lord" is a very important thing and the lack of it is deadly. Here, the men of Beth Shemesh have received the ark of the Lord back from the Philistines with rejoicing and even the offering of sacrifices. But they do something that reveals that something is missing inside of them. They lift the cover and peek into the ark. Seventy of them are dead as a result. Why did they die? Because they lacked "the fear of the Lord." They thought that the ark could be treated as a toy or a trinket. (Just like a person who doesn't fear the power of electricity could be killed by opening a transformer box and looking inside.) They forgot about God's awesome power. But the reaction of the rest of the people is what really gets me. They are now fearful of God -- but not in the right way. Rather than repenting of their careless attitude toward God, they just get spooked and want to get rid of Him. "Send the ark away!" is their answer. It would be like a person who sees someone get electrocuted deciding that they want nothing to do with electricity so they have all the wiring removed from their house.
Application: We need a healthy fear of God. He holds the power of life and death in His mighty hands. He is not our buddy or pal or the man upstairs. He is God Almighty and is not to be trifled with. (I think that sometimes our emphasis on having a personal relationship with God can foster a too-casual idea about relating to God.) Now it also seems that too many people walk in fear -- afraid of God. This is also not right. Absense of fear is wrong and the wrong kind of fear is also wrong. We can have a high degree of reverence and respect for God, and a love and appreciation for Him based on an understanding of His character of love. This is not unlike how a highly qualified electrician thinks about electricity. He knows it can kill if not handled with respect, but he is trained on all the good it can do when its potential is properly released. Let's work to get that balance into our lives and to help others to get it as well.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your awesome power which created the universe and holds it together. And I thank You for Your amazing love that reaches out to sinful human beings with mercy and forgiveness. Thank You for calling people to a love relationship with You. And help us, Lord, to hold You in high regard and reverence. May we have the fear of the Lord in our lives as You would have us to. Thank You for Your patience with us as we learn to walk in Your ways.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen
Scripture: 1 Samuel 6:19-21
…God struck down some of the men of Beth Shemesh, putting seventy of them to death because they had looked unto the ark of the LORD. The people mourned because of the heavy blow the LORD had dealt them, and the men of Beth Shemesh asked, "Who can stand in the presence of the LORD, this holy God? To whom will the ark go up from here?" Then they sent messengers to the people of Kiriath Jearim, saying, "The Philistines have returned the ark of the LORD. Come down and take it up to your place."
Observation: As a child I never understood the phrase "the fear of the Lord." To me, "fear" was a bad thing. So how could "the fear of the Lord" be anything other than bad? Well, this story demonstrates the truth that the right kind of "the fear of the Lord" is a very important thing and the lack of it is deadly. Here, the men of Beth Shemesh have received the ark of the Lord back from the Philistines with rejoicing and even the offering of sacrifices. But they do something that reveals that something is missing inside of them. They lift the cover and peek into the ark. Seventy of them are dead as a result. Why did they die? Because they lacked "the fear of the Lord." They thought that the ark could be treated as a toy or a trinket. (Just like a person who doesn't fear the power of electricity could be killed by opening a transformer box and looking inside.) They forgot about God's awesome power. But the reaction of the rest of the people is what really gets me. They are now fearful of God -- but not in the right way. Rather than repenting of their careless attitude toward God, they just get spooked and want to get rid of Him. "Send the ark away!" is their answer. It would be like a person who sees someone get electrocuted deciding that they want nothing to do with electricity so they have all the wiring removed from their house.
Application: We need a healthy fear of God. He holds the power of life and death in His mighty hands. He is not our buddy or pal or the man upstairs. He is God Almighty and is not to be trifled with. (I think that sometimes our emphasis on having a personal relationship with God can foster a too-casual idea about relating to God.) Now it also seems that too many people walk in fear -- afraid of God. This is also not right. Absense of fear is wrong and the wrong kind of fear is also wrong. We can have a high degree of reverence and respect for God, and a love and appreciation for Him based on an understanding of His character of love. This is not unlike how a highly qualified electrician thinks about electricity. He knows it can kill if not handled with respect, but he is trained on all the good it can do when its potential is properly released. Let's work to get that balance into our lives and to help others to get it as well.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your awesome power which created the universe and holds it together. And I thank You for Your amazing love that reaches out to sinful human beings with mercy and forgiveness. Thank You for calling people to a love relationship with You. And help us, Lord, to hold You in high regard and reverence. May we have the fear of the Lord in our lives as You would have us to. Thank You for Your patience with us as we learn to walk in Your ways.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen
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