Today’s Reading: Nehemiah 9; Nehemiah 10; Acts 2
Scripture: Nehemiah 10:31 "When the neighboring peoples bring merchandise or grain to sell on the Sabbath, we will not buy from them on the Sabbath or on any holy day. Every seventh year we will forgo working the land and will cancel all debts."
Observation: These Israelites are coming before God in repentance. They have dedicated themselves to renewing the covenant with God and walking in the way of the Lord. And here they commit to some parts of the covenant that have a true financial cost associated with them: to not do commerce on the Sabbath or other holy days and to observe the year of jubilee. These observances have an apparent cost. They will lose money (it seems) if they follow these rules. But these people know that the judgment of God came upon their forebears and them because such rules were not followed so they stand in the place of true repentance and swear to follow God's ways completely, no matter the cost.
Application: Repentance involves a cost. There is a sacrifice involved if a person truly repents. Today, many people think they can come to God on their own terms. They are sorely mistaken. We can only come to God on his terms. And in our unregenerate state, we are so far from God that significant repentance and change is always required.
Prayer: Lord, help me to stay away from a "gospel" of comfort. Your true Gospel always involves a cost and a sacrifice. Help me to always walk in repentance as I move toward you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Friday, October 12, 2007
Title: Have You Heard / Topic: The Word Of God
Today’s Reading: Nehemiah 7; Nehemiah 8; Acts 1
Scripture: Nehemiah 8:1-9
1 all the people assembled as one man in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the scribe to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded for Israel.
2 So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. 3 He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.
4 Ezra the scribe stood on a high wooden platform built for the occasion... 5 Ezra opened the book. All the people could see him because he was standing above them; and as he opened it, the people all stood up. 6 Ezra praised the LORD, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, "Amen! Amen!" Then they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground.
7 The Levites... instructed the people in the Law while the people were standing there. 8 They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read.
9 Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, "This day is sacred to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep." For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law...
Observation: What an amazing thing this is. The people of Israel are hungry for the word of God. They have not ever heard it because their forefathers neglected and disregarded the word. Now, after years of painful exile, the consequences of their forebears' turning away from God, they have gathered in Jerusalem for the sole purpose of hearing the word. What strikes me is the virtue and seriousness of their pursuit. All the people have gathered "as one man" it says -- they have real unity of purpose. As the word is read they stand up in reverence. At the end, as the Amen is pronounced, they lift their hands and responded, affirming the word with Amens of their own, and then "they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground." The people had to be instructed, "'Do not mourn or weep.' For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law..." This was a solemn and serious event to them. For the first time they were hearing the very words of their God.
Application: The first application is that it is every generations responsibility to teach God's word to the next generation. These people didn't know the word because their parent, grandparents, great grandparents, and so forth did not take this responsibility to heart. The word died out in Israel because of the neglect of the responsibility to pass it on. I think we are largely neglecting this responsibility today.
The second application is based on their seriousness and reverence for the word. They were truly committed to hearing from God and they demonstrated it with outward actions (standing, listening for several hours while standing, raising hands, bowing to the ground), words (saying "Amen", praising God), and emotion (anticipation of hearing the word, weeping as they heard it). I contrast these responses to how people respond to the word of God today: mostly with boredom or indifference. How wonderful it would be if the people of God today had some of this desire for, reverence regarding, and dedication to the word of God.
Prayer: Lord, help me to love your word. May I open myself to let it fully impact me as these people did. And may your people today take seriously the responsibility of passing the word along to the next generation. Show us how, give us the methods and the determination to accomplish this important responsibility.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Nehemiah 8:1-9
1 all the people assembled as one man in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the scribe to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded for Israel.
2 So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. 3 He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.
4 Ezra the scribe stood on a high wooden platform built for the occasion... 5 Ezra opened the book. All the people could see him because he was standing above them; and as he opened it, the people all stood up. 6 Ezra praised the LORD, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, "Amen! Amen!" Then they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground.
7 The Levites... instructed the people in the Law while the people were standing there. 8 They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read.
9 Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, "This day is sacred to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep." For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law...
Observation: What an amazing thing this is. The people of Israel are hungry for the word of God. They have not ever heard it because their forefathers neglected and disregarded the word. Now, after years of painful exile, the consequences of their forebears' turning away from God, they have gathered in Jerusalem for the sole purpose of hearing the word. What strikes me is the virtue and seriousness of their pursuit. All the people have gathered "as one man" it says -- they have real unity of purpose. As the word is read they stand up in reverence. At the end, as the Amen is pronounced, they lift their hands and responded, affirming the word with Amens of their own, and then "they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground." The people had to be instructed, "'Do not mourn or weep.' For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law..." This was a solemn and serious event to them. For the first time they were hearing the very words of their God.
Application: The first application is that it is every generations responsibility to teach God's word to the next generation. These people didn't know the word because their parent, grandparents, great grandparents, and so forth did not take this responsibility to heart. The word died out in Israel because of the neglect of the responsibility to pass it on. I think we are largely neglecting this responsibility today.
The second application is based on their seriousness and reverence for the word. They were truly committed to hearing from God and they demonstrated it with outward actions (standing, listening for several hours while standing, raising hands, bowing to the ground), words (saying "Amen", praising God), and emotion (anticipation of hearing the word, weeping as they heard it). I contrast these responses to how people respond to the word of God today: mostly with boredom or indifference. How wonderful it would be if the people of God today had some of this desire for, reverence regarding, and dedication to the word of God.
Prayer: Lord, help me to love your word. May I open myself to let it fully impact me as these people did. And may your people today take seriously the responsibility of passing the word along to the next generation. Show us how, give us the methods and the determination to accomplish this important responsibility.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Title: Near Or Far / Topic: Humility
Today’s Reading: Ezra 5; Ezra 6; Psalm 138; Luke 16
Scripture: Psalm 138:6 Though the LORD is on high, he looks upon the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.
Observation: I love this verse. When it says that the Lord "looks upon the lowly" in contrast to "but the proud he knows from afar", the clear implication is that God is near to the lowly, watching them with affection and intimacy. Proud people don't get that intimacy. In fact, proud and powerful people keep other people away as well. So they are quite alone, since even God keeps his distance.
Application: Do I want to be near to God or far from him? The determining factor is my humility. Closeness to the Lord is directly proportional to my humility of heart.
Prayer: Keep me humble and close to you, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 138:6 Though the LORD is on high, he looks upon the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.
Observation: I love this verse. When it says that the Lord "looks upon the lowly" in contrast to "but the proud he knows from afar", the clear implication is that God is near to the lowly, watching them with affection and intimacy. Proud people don't get that intimacy. In fact, proud and powerful people keep other people away as well. So they are quite alone, since even God keeps his distance.
Application: Do I want to be near to God or far from him? The determining factor is my humility. Closeness to the Lord is directly proportional to my humility of heart.
Prayer: Keep me humble and close to you, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Title: Fear The Lord / Topic: Pleasing God
Today’s Reading: Zechariah 13; Zechariah 14; Psalm 147; Luke 15
Scripture: Psalm 147:11 the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
Observation: Fear the Lord. This concept isn't too popular today. Especially among the seeker-sensitive. It doesn't sound very welcoming to invite someone to fear anything or anyone. Particularly when we say that a "personal relationship with Jesus" is what a person needs to be saved. But I think that a proper relationship with God does involve fear. The Bible tells us that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" and here it says that "the Lord delights in those who fear him." And notice the next phrase, "who put their hope in his unfailing love."
Application: If I do not fear the Lord, I am putting too much stock in me rather than the Lord. And when I do this, I tend to trust in me and in what I am able to do for myself. When I understand that I am next to nothing compared to him, then I will fear him and will trust in him at the same time. I will trust in his love for I must know that if he is to have anything to do with me, it's not because he needs me! No, it is due to his mercy and love for me that he saved and blesses me.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your wonderful awesome self and for your unfailing love and mercy toward me. May I always be one of those who fears you and trusts in you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 147:11 the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
Observation: Fear the Lord. This concept isn't too popular today. Especially among the seeker-sensitive. It doesn't sound very welcoming to invite someone to fear anything or anyone. Particularly when we say that a "personal relationship with Jesus" is what a person needs to be saved. But I think that a proper relationship with God does involve fear. The Bible tells us that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" and here it says that "the Lord delights in those who fear him." And notice the next phrase, "who put their hope in his unfailing love."
Application: If I do not fear the Lord, I am putting too much stock in me rather than the Lord. And when I do this, I tend to trust in me and in what I am able to do for myself. When I understand that I am next to nothing compared to him, then I will fear him and will trust in him at the same time. I will trust in his love for I must know that if he is to have anything to do with me, it's not because he needs me! No, it is due to his mercy and love for me that he saved and blesses me.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your wonderful awesome self and for your unfailing love and mercy toward me. May I always be one of those who fears you and trusts in you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Title: Watching Jesus / Topic: Honoring The King
Today’s Reading: Zechariah 10; Zechariah 11; Zechariah 12; Psalm 126; Luke 14
Scripture: Luke 14:1 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched.
Observation: There Pharisees and other prominent dinner guests are keeping an eye on Jesus to see if he will violate the rigid rules that they pride themselves on obeying. Unfortunately, they were not watching him to learn from him or to admire and honor him, but rather to judge him.
Application: Lots of people know about Jesus and are interested in him. Even the Islamic religion recognizes Jesus as a prophet. But watching Jesus isn't really the point. It's obeying him, honoring him, and, ultimately, surrendering to him that really counts. These Pharisees were more interested in obeying their own version of the Law rather than the Word himself which was right in front of them. How many of us miss Jesus because we are focused on the wrong things?
Prayer: Lord, I want to keep my eyes on you so that I can love you more. Help me to keep my focus right. And help me to see you in every situation in my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Luke 14:1 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched.
Observation: There Pharisees and other prominent dinner guests are keeping an eye on Jesus to see if he will violate the rigid rules that they pride themselves on obeying. Unfortunately, they were not watching him to learn from him or to admire and honor him, but rather to judge him.
Application: Lots of people know about Jesus and are interested in him. Even the Islamic religion recognizes Jesus as a prophet. But watching Jesus isn't really the point. It's obeying him, honoring him, and, ultimately, surrendering to him that really counts. These Pharisees were more interested in obeying their own version of the Law rather than the Word himself which was right in front of them. How many of us miss Jesus because we are focused on the wrong things?
Prayer: Lord, I want to keep my eyes on you so that I can love you more. Help me to keep my focus right. And help me to see you in every situation in my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Title: Not Forgotten / Topic: God's Perspective
Today’s Reading: Zechariah 4; Zechariah 5; Zechariah 6; Luke 12
Scripture: Luke 12:6-7
6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Observation: Jesus instructs the people to remember that God values them. Why does he take the time to do this?
Application: It is because it is easy to feel forgotten by God. Because of my earth-bound perspective, I don't see the bigger picture and I certainly often am not aware of God's concern or even awareness of me. God sometimes seems distant and unconcerned -- maybe even unaware. But Jesus tells us that this perception is mistaken. God even remembers every sparrow that falls. This is beyond my understanding. How he does it I cannot understand, but that he does it will bring me comfort if I accept it. And Jesus says that my worth to God is greater than many sparrows. So if he remembers every single sparrow, how much more does he remember me. There is an old song that says, "His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me." This truth brings comfort and perspective that I need.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for loving me and knowing me. I am grateful that you have not forgotten me and that you will never forget me. Give me your perspective in greater and greater measure so that I will not get discouraged by how I perceive things to be. And continue to work in and through me that I may fulfill your will and purpose for my life. Without you, I am nothing. May I be full of you and walk fully in your path for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Luke 12:6-7
6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Observation: Jesus instructs the people to remember that God values them. Why does he take the time to do this?
Application: It is because it is easy to feel forgotten by God. Because of my earth-bound perspective, I don't see the bigger picture and I certainly often am not aware of God's concern or even awareness of me. God sometimes seems distant and unconcerned -- maybe even unaware. But Jesus tells us that this perception is mistaken. God even remembers every sparrow that falls. This is beyond my understanding. How he does it I cannot understand, but that he does it will bring me comfort if I accept it. And Jesus says that my worth to God is greater than many sparrows. So if he remembers every single sparrow, how much more does he remember me. There is an old song that says, "His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me." This truth brings comfort and perspective that I need.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for loving me and knowing me. I am grateful that you have not forgotten me and that you will never forget me. Give me your perspective in greater and greater measure so that I will not get discouraged by how I perceive things to be. And continue to work in and through me that I may fulfill your will and purpose for my life. Without you, I am nothing. May I be full of you and walk fully in your path for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Title: Hinder Or Help? / Topic: Spiritual Leadership
Today’s Reading: Zechariah 1; Zechariah 2; Zechariah 3; Luke 11
Scripture: Luke 11:52 "Woe to you experts in the law, because you have taken away the key to knowledge. You yourselves have not entered, and you have hindered those who were entering."
Observation: These self appointed spiritual leaders have not only NOT entered into God's truth and relationship with Him, they have blocked the way for others!
Application: Spiritual leaders have a serious responsibility. Their actions and example have grave implications far beyond themselves. The destiny of others hangs in the balance. What this speaks to me as a spiritual leader is that I must first make sure that I am doing all I can to keep my relationship with Jesus real and authentic, and then get out of the way to let others have direct access to Him for themselves. My words, actions, and attitudes can hinder others who are seeking. I also believe the flip side is true: my actions can encourage those who are seeking the Lord. Of course, that is my goal in my role as a spiritual leader.
Prayer: Lord, keep me close to You. Open my eyes to anything in my leadership that would be a hindrance to anyone who is genuinely seeking You. Help me to distinguish between what is a productive encouragement and what is an unproductive deterrent in what I do, say, and model for those You have called me to lead.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Luke 11:52 "Woe to you experts in the law, because you have taken away the key to knowledge. You yourselves have not entered, and you have hindered those who were entering."
Observation: These self appointed spiritual leaders have not only NOT entered into God's truth and relationship with Him, they have blocked the way for others!
Application: Spiritual leaders have a serious responsibility. Their actions and example have grave implications far beyond themselves. The destiny of others hangs in the balance. What this speaks to me as a spiritual leader is that I must first make sure that I am doing all I can to keep my relationship with Jesus real and authentic, and then get out of the way to let others have direct access to Him for themselves. My words, actions, and attitudes can hinder others who are seeking. I also believe the flip side is true: my actions can encourage those who are seeking the Lord. Of course, that is my goal in my role as a spiritual leader.
Prayer: Lord, keep me close to You. Open my eyes to anything in my leadership that would be a hindrance to anyone who is genuinely seeking You. Help me to distinguish between what is a productive encouragement and what is an unproductive deterrent in what I do, say, and model for those You have called me to lead.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Title: Three Brief Thoughts / Topic: God's Will
Today’s Reading: Haggai 1; Haggai 2; Psalm 129; Luke 10
Today I am giving a brief thought on three verses that jumped off the page at me.
#1 Title: God's Make It Happen Person / Topic: God's Power
Scripture: Haggai 2:23 " '...I will make you like my signet ring...' "
Observation/Application: The signet ring was the sign of the authority of the king. He would use it like a signature (notice the similarity in the words: signet -- signature) to express his will that something is to be done. Nothing could stop what the king had sealed with his signet ring. This is a powerful promise to Zerubbabel. Imagine the awesome responsibility that came to this human leader. Wow! Lord, help me to be a man that you could trust your power to.
#2 Title: A Dangerous Question / Topic: Challenge
Scripture: Luke 10:29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
Observation/Application: This expert in the law had just given Jesus a very good answer but we are told that "he wanted to justify himself," so he asked this question of clarification to show how great he was. (I don't think he would have asked it if he didn't think he was really impressive.) It turned out to be a dangerous question because Jesus told a parable that challenged him at the level of his pride and his prejudice. Moral: be careful what you ask God. You might not like the answer.
#3 Title: The One Necessary Thing / Topic: The Priority
Scripture: Luke 10:41-42 "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed..."
Observation/Application: This little story always convicts me because I am a Martha-type person. I am working on not being this kind and converting to a Mary-type person. The Lord says, "only one thing is needed." And the message is: The main thing is the keep the main thing the main thing.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your word and the power it brings to my life. You know me through and through, the good and bad, my strengths and my weaknesses, my failures and my victories, my faith and my fear. And you still love me enough to give your life to me. Hallelujah! Lord I rejoice in your great love and acceptance. Empower me to take it to the next level.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Today I am giving a brief thought on three verses that jumped off the page at me.
#1 Title: God's Make It Happen Person / Topic: God's Power
Scripture: Haggai 2:23 " '...I will make you like my signet ring...' "
Observation/Application: The signet ring was the sign of the authority of the king. He would use it like a signature (notice the similarity in the words: signet -- signature) to express his will that something is to be done. Nothing could stop what the king had sealed with his signet ring. This is a powerful promise to Zerubbabel. Imagine the awesome responsibility that came to this human leader. Wow! Lord, help me to be a man that you could trust your power to.
#2 Title: A Dangerous Question / Topic: Challenge
Scripture: Luke 10:29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
Observation/Application: This expert in the law had just given Jesus a very good answer but we are told that "he wanted to justify himself," so he asked this question of clarification to show how great he was. (I don't think he would have asked it if he didn't think he was really impressive.) It turned out to be a dangerous question because Jesus told a parable that challenged him at the level of his pride and his prejudice. Moral: be careful what you ask God. You might not like the answer.
#3 Title: The One Necessary Thing / Topic: The Priority
Scripture: Luke 10:41-42 "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed..."
Observation/Application: This little story always convicts me because I am a Martha-type person. I am working on not being this kind and converting to a Mary-type person. The Lord says, "only one thing is needed." And the message is: The main thing is the keep the main thing the main thing.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your word and the power it brings to my life. You know me through and through, the good and bad, my strengths and my weaknesses, my failures and my victories, my faith and my fear. And you still love me enough to give your life to me. Hallelujah! Lord I rejoice in your great love and acceptance. Empower me to take it to the next level.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Title: The Intercessor / Topic: The Heart of Repentance
Today’s Reading: Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5
Scripture: Daniel 9:4-6, 20
4 I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with all who love him and obey his commands, 5 we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws. 6 We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes and our fathers, and to all the people of the land...
20 While I was speaking and praying, confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel..."
Observation: Daniel is a righteous man. But here, as he intercedes for his nation, he identifies himself with his nation in confession of sin and rebellion against God. It is striking to me that Daniel, who in no way could be considered rebellious, uses the pronoun we in his prayer, accepting responsibility for his nation's wrongs against God. Look at how many times Daniel uses the word "we" in the above passage. He has the true heart of the intercessor.
Application: I can use Daniel as a model for intercession. If I am to intercede for any group that I am a part of (my nation, my church, The Church, pastors, etc.), I must fully identify with that group in prayer. That means not praying, "They have sinned..." but praying, "We have sinned..." and "I have sinned..." This pleases God.
Prayer: Lord, give me the heart of an intercessor. And forgive our sin, my sin, and heal our land. Have mercy upon us, I pray.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Daniel 9:4-6, 20
4 I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with all who love him and obey his commands, 5 we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws. 6 We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes and our fathers, and to all the people of the land...
20 While I was speaking and praying, confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel..."
Observation: Daniel is a righteous man. But here, as he intercedes for his nation, he identifies himself with his nation in confession of sin and rebellion against God. It is striking to me that Daniel, who in no way could be considered rebellious, uses the pronoun we in his prayer, accepting responsibility for his nation's wrongs against God. Look at how many times Daniel uses the word "we" in the above passage. He has the true heart of the intercessor.
Application: I can use Daniel as a model for intercession. If I am to intercede for any group that I am a part of (my nation, my church, The Church, pastors, etc.), I must fully identify with that group in prayer. That means not praying, "They have sinned..." but praying, "We have sinned..." and "I have sinned..." This pleases God.
Prayer: Lord, give me the heart of an intercessor. And forgive our sin, my sin, and heal our land. Have mercy upon us, I pray.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Title: The Wear Of Battle / Topic: Spiritual Toughness
Today’s Reading: Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4
Scriptures:
Daniel 7:28 "This is the end of the matter. I, Daniel, was deeply troubled by my thoughts, and my face turned pale, but I kept the matter to myself."
Daniel 8:27 I, Daniel, was exhausted and lay ill for several days. Then I got up and went about the king's business. I was appalled by the vision; it was beyond understanding.
Luke 4:42 At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them.
Observation: Daniel is physically spent as a result of seeing the visions that the Lord gave him. He is literally sick. Jesus, likewise is worn out from ministering for days and needs to get away.
Application: Ministry has a cost. Not just a spiritual cost, but a physical and emotional cost as well. When I read what the great men of the Bible endured, I often wonder if I have what it takes to perform as they did. Could I receive a vision like Daniel did? I think it might kill me. But I want to be spiritually tough to be of the greatest use to the Lord. I think that is something that we all could use: a little more spiritual toughness.
Prayer: Lord, make me a stout warrior for you. Help me to do the stuff that will build my spiritual muscles and my endurance.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scriptures:
Daniel 7:28 "This is the end of the matter. I, Daniel, was deeply troubled by my thoughts, and my face turned pale, but I kept the matter to myself."
Daniel 8:27 I, Daniel, was exhausted and lay ill for several days. Then I got up and went about the king's business. I was appalled by the vision; it was beyond understanding.
Luke 4:42 At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them.
Observation: Daniel is physically spent as a result of seeing the visions that the Lord gave him. He is literally sick. Jesus, likewise is worn out from ministering for days and needs to get away.
Application: Ministry has a cost. Not just a spiritual cost, but a physical and emotional cost as well. When I read what the great men of the Bible endured, I often wonder if I have what it takes to perform as they did. Could I receive a vision like Daniel did? I think it might kill me. But I want to be spiritually tough to be of the greatest use to the Lord. I think that is something that we all could use: a little more spiritual toughness.
Prayer: Lord, make me a stout warrior for you. Help me to do the stuff that will build my spiritual muscles and my endurance.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Title: A Few Lessons From Daniel 5 / Topic: Wisdom
Today’s Reading: Daniel 5; Daniel 6; Psalm 130; Luke 3
I really enjoyed today's reading. And as I read, several truths popped out at me. I will share the verses and the lessons from each.
Scriptures/observations/applications from Daniel 5 (various verses):
Verse 2: While Belshazzar was drinking his wine, he gave orders to bring in the gold and silver goblets that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken from the temple in Jerusalem, so that the king and his nobles, his wives and his concubines might drink from them.
Lesson: People do stupid things, things they would otherwise not do, when they are under the influence of alcohol. Stay away from it.
Verse 4: As they drank the wine, they praised the gods of gold and silver, of bronze, iron, wood and stone.
Lesson: This reminds me of a recent event in which a comedienne who won an Emmy award stated mockingly that Jesus had nothing to do with her achievement and that the Emmy was now her god. What a pathetic expression and what a lousy god. In the end she will be sorry.
Verses 5-6: Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The king watched the hand as it wrote. His face turned pale and he was so frightened that his knees knocked together and his legs gave way.
Lesson: I just love it when the big bad tough king has an encounter with God. He becomes like a scared little girl. Eventually, everyone will acknowledge God.
Verse 17: Then Daniel answered the king, "You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell him what it means.
Lesson: Daniel has no use for the king or his bribes. He stands for God and cannot be bought, enticed, or ensnared. I love this about Daniel. Most people are impressed with kings, the rich, and the like. But not Daniel. He knew God and wasn't impressed with even the best this world had to offer.
Verse 22: "But you his son, O Belshazzar, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this. Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven."
Lesson: This king had witnessed the judgment of God against his father and yet had learned nothing from it. His pride caused him to consider himself exempt. Now, he will pay.
Verse 23: You praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or understand. But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways.
Lesson: There is one "God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways." This is true of every person. We will be judged on whether we honored him or not.
Prayer: Lord, I want to honor you always and to walk in your ways. Lead me, o Lord. May I learn your lessons well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
I really enjoyed today's reading. And as I read, several truths popped out at me. I will share the verses and the lessons from each.
Scriptures/observations/applications from Daniel 5 (various verses):
Verse 2: While Belshazzar was drinking his wine, he gave orders to bring in the gold and silver goblets that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken from the temple in Jerusalem, so that the king and his nobles, his wives and his concubines might drink from them.
Lesson: People do stupid things, things they would otherwise not do, when they are under the influence of alcohol. Stay away from it.
Verse 4: As they drank the wine, they praised the gods of gold and silver, of bronze, iron, wood and stone.
Lesson: This reminds me of a recent event in which a comedienne who won an Emmy award stated mockingly that Jesus had nothing to do with her achievement and that the Emmy was now her god. What a pathetic expression and what a lousy god. In the end she will be sorry.
Verses 5-6: Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The king watched the hand as it wrote. His face turned pale and he was so frightened that his knees knocked together and his legs gave way.
Lesson: I just love it when the big bad tough king has an encounter with God. He becomes like a scared little girl. Eventually, everyone will acknowledge God.
Verse 17: Then Daniel answered the king, "You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell him what it means.
Lesson: Daniel has no use for the king or his bribes. He stands for God and cannot be bought, enticed, or ensnared. I love this about Daniel. Most people are impressed with kings, the rich, and the like. But not Daniel. He knew God and wasn't impressed with even the best this world had to offer.
Verse 22: "But you his son, O Belshazzar, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this. Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven."
Lesson: This king had witnessed the judgment of God against his father and yet had learned nothing from it. His pride caused him to consider himself exempt. Now, he will pay.
Verse 23: You praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or understand. But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways.
Lesson: There is one "God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways." This is true of every person. We will be judged on whether we honored him or not.
Prayer: Lord, I want to honor you always and to walk in your ways. Lead me, o Lord. May I learn your lessons well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Title: Got Passion? / Topic: First Love's Desire
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 42; Ezekiel 43; Ezekiel 44; Revelation 22
Scripture: Revelation 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.
Observation: This verse has grabbed my heart for the last several weeks. We (the Church) are the bride of Christ and this verse tells of the desire of the bride for her groom. There is passion and there is desire -- it is unmistakable.
Application: But do I have this passion and desire for Jesus, my first and true love? This is the question that has seized my heart. If not, then what must I do to regain (or get for the first time) this passion and desire?
Prayer: Lord, show me the way. I want to have a burning passion for my Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.
Observation: This verse has grabbed my heart for the last several weeks. We (the Church) are the bride of Christ and this verse tells of the desire of the bride for her groom. There is passion and there is desire -- it is unmistakable.
Application: But do I have this passion and desire for Jesus, my first and true love? This is the question that has seized my heart. If not, then what must I do to regain (or get for the first time) this passion and desire?
Prayer: Lord, show me the way. I want to have a burning passion for my Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Title: Perfection Required / Topic: Heaven
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21
Scripture: Revelation 21:27 Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.
Observation: I must confess that I did not at all enjoy today's reading in Ezekiel. All the dimensions and detailed descriptions of the buildings that Ezekiel saw in his vision are dizzying and not enjoyable to read, as far as I am concerned.
I did notice this verse at the end of Revelation chapter 21. Speaking of the New Jerusalem, we are told that perfection is required of all those that enter it. Of course for anyone to have this perfection requires that he come to it through the gift of God and the blood of Jesus. Without Jesus, no perfection is possible. And without perfection, you can't get into this New Jerusalem, or heaven itself, for that matter.
Application: Many people will argue that they are "good enough" to make it into heaven. They are basically "good people" and their little faults certainly wouldn't be significant enough for God to keep them from entering. But there is no "good enough" in eternity. There is perfection or not. Perfection comes not of flesh, lest any man should boast -- it is the gift of God to the one who repents of sin and accepts the salvation which comes only through Jesus Christ. And once we have received this salvation, we must keep ourselves pure by walking in the Spirit so we do not fulfill the desires of the sinful nature.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that my salvation is not based on my ability to deserve or earn it. I thank you that Jesus did it all -- paying the full price for my sin and rising again from the dead to give me newness of life. I thank you that he took the coverings of sin that I had made and gave me his royal robes of righteousness that I may enter into your holy presence on that day. I am thankful, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 21:27 Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.
Observation: I must confess that I did not at all enjoy today's reading in Ezekiel. All the dimensions and detailed descriptions of the buildings that Ezekiel saw in his vision are dizzying and not enjoyable to read, as far as I am concerned.
I did notice this verse at the end of Revelation chapter 21. Speaking of the New Jerusalem, we are told that perfection is required of all those that enter it. Of course for anyone to have this perfection requires that he come to it through the gift of God and the blood of Jesus. Without Jesus, no perfection is possible. And without perfection, you can't get into this New Jerusalem, or heaven itself, for that matter.
Application: Many people will argue that they are "good enough" to make it into heaven. They are basically "good people" and their little faults certainly wouldn't be significant enough for God to keep them from entering. But there is no "good enough" in eternity. There is perfection or not. Perfection comes not of flesh, lest any man should boast -- it is the gift of God to the one who repents of sin and accepts the salvation which comes only through Jesus Christ. And once we have received this salvation, we must keep ourselves pure by walking in the Spirit so we do not fulfill the desires of the sinful nature.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that my salvation is not based on my ability to deserve or earn it. I thank you that Jesus did it all -- paying the full price for my sin and rising again from the dead to give me newness of life. I thank you that he took the coverings of sin that I had made and gave me his royal robes of righteousness that I may enter into your holy presence on that day. I am thankful, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Title: Not Yet / Topic: Future Events?
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20
Scripture: Ezekiel 39:21-23
21 "I will display my glory among the nations, and all the nations will see the punishment I inflict and the hand I lay upon them. 22 From that day forward the house of Israel will know that I am the LORD their God. 23 And the nations will know that the people of Israel went into exile for their sin, because they were unfaithful to me..."
Observation: These verses of prophecy seem to indicate a time when Israel's punishment will be universally understood. Israel will understand and acknowledge God as their Lord. All the nations will understand that "Israel went into exile for their sin..." But it seems to me that, though Israel has been restored to her land, this prophecy is yet to be fulfilled.
Application: The interpretation of prophecy can be a tricky business. Events that appear right next to each other in the text can refer to events hundreds or even thousands of years apart. And there is often a switch over from actual physical events to events occurring in the spiritual realm. The reason I wanted to write about this is just to be reminded that humility is so important when trying to interpret and apply God's word. I meet many people who seem to think that they have it down cold. But I think they are mistaken. Nobody has it down cold. As the Apostle Paul wrote: "Now we see through a glass darkly."
Prayer: Lord, keep me humble but also help me to understand and apply your word as fully as I possibly can. Show us your ways and lead us in your will.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 39:21-23
21 "I will display my glory among the nations, and all the nations will see the punishment I inflict and the hand I lay upon them. 22 From that day forward the house of Israel will know that I am the LORD their God. 23 And the nations will know that the people of Israel went into exile for their sin, because they were unfaithful to me..."
Observation: These verses of prophecy seem to indicate a time when Israel's punishment will be universally understood. Israel will understand and acknowledge God as their Lord. All the nations will understand that "Israel went into exile for their sin..." But it seems to me that, though Israel has been restored to her land, this prophecy is yet to be fulfilled.
Application: The interpretation of prophecy can be a tricky business. Events that appear right next to each other in the text can refer to events hundreds or even thousands of years apart. And there is often a switch over from actual physical events to events occurring in the spiritual realm. The reason I wanted to write about this is just to be reminded that humility is so important when trying to interpret and apply God's word. I meet many people who seem to think that they have it down cold. But I think they are mistaken. Nobody has it down cold. As the Apostle Paul wrote: "Now we see through a glass darkly."
Prayer: Lord, keep me humble but also help me to understand and apply your word as fully as I possibly can. Show us your ways and lead us in your will.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Title: Brave Obedience / Topic: Boldness
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19
Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-7
1 The hand of the LORD was upon me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the LORD and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. 2 ...bones that were very dry.... 4 Then he said to me, "Prophesy to these bones and say to them, 'Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! 5 This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. 6 I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.' "
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded...
Observation: The valley of dry bones presents such an interesting mental image -- every time I read it I imagine what it must have been like for Ezekiel. But I know "the rest of the story" while Ezekiel did not. He only knew that he was in a valley full of very dry bones. And God tells him, "Prophesy to these bones..." This is not an easy thing to do.
Application: When we look at our own valley full of dry bones, we just see dead, dry bones. We see no hope of life -- no future -- nothing other than death. God commands faith -- and prophecy. It requires great boldness and faith to speak of life and hope in the face of circumstances that scream death and hopelessness. But Ezekiel shows us how to do it. "So I prophesied as I was commanded." Just do it in sheer obedience. Ezekiel did not have any ability to make the bones live. But he did not need to do that. He only needed to speak in obedience to God. What has God told you to do or speak? You can do what he asks of you. The question is, "will you?"
Prayer: Lord, I want to be like Ezekiel and speak to the dead, dry bones in my own life. Help me to hear your instruction and to do what you say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-7
1 The hand of the LORD was upon me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the LORD and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. 2 ...bones that were very dry.... 4 Then he said to me, "Prophesy to these bones and say to them, 'Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! 5 This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. 6 I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.' "
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded...
Observation: The valley of dry bones presents such an interesting mental image -- every time I read it I imagine what it must have been like for Ezekiel. But I know "the rest of the story" while Ezekiel did not. He only knew that he was in a valley full of very dry bones. And God tells him, "Prophesy to these bones..." This is not an easy thing to do.
Application: When we look at our own valley full of dry bones, we just see dead, dry bones. We see no hope of life -- no future -- nothing other than death. God commands faith -- and prophecy. It requires great boldness and faith to speak of life and hope in the face of circumstances that scream death and hopelessness. But Ezekiel shows us how to do it. "So I prophesied as I was commanded." Just do it in sheer obedience. Ezekiel did not have any ability to make the bones live. But he did not need to do that. He only needed to speak in obedience to God. What has God told you to do or speak? You can do what he asks of you. The question is, "will you?"
Prayer: Lord, I want to be like Ezekiel and speak to the dead, dry bones in my own life. Help me to hear your instruction and to do what you say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Title: Turn And Live / Topic: Repentance
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 33; Ezekiel 34; Ezekiel 35; Revelation 18
Scripture: Ezekiel 33:14-16
14 And if I say to the wicked man, 'You will surely die,' but he then turns away from his sin and does what is just and right- 15 if he gives back what he took in pledge for a loan, returns what he has stolen, follows the decrees that give life, and does no evil, he will surely live; he will not die. 16 None of the sins he has committed will be remembered against him. He has done what is just and right; he will surely live.
Observation: The truth expressed in and around this section in Ezekiel is so important. He talks about the fact that God doesn't dwell in the past, or condemn anyone for the past, or even reward anyone for the past (that is, if that person is doing evil in the present). God says, you can change, you can alter your life by doing different things. Specifically here, in this passage, he gives the principle of repentance. God gives a warning of impending doom. If the warning is heeded and the person truly changes, God will change the outcome for the person. But note clearly that this change must be real, not just in word but in deed. And it must demonstrate a desire to right past wrongs.
Application: Many people talk about change. Many people say they want change. But precious few actually take the steps necessary to put the change into practice. This is what true repentance is.
Prayer: Lord, help me and all your people to truly repent. Give us ears to hear your warnings, hearts to receive and grieve, and the will to carry out our repentance with actions of restoration and restitution. Lord, give us the desire and the power by your grace that we may abide in your presence.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 33:14-16
14 And if I say to the wicked man, 'You will surely die,' but he then turns away from his sin and does what is just and right- 15 if he gives back what he took in pledge for a loan, returns what he has stolen, follows the decrees that give life, and does no evil, he will surely live; he will not die. 16 None of the sins he has committed will be remembered against him. He has done what is just and right; he will surely live.
Observation: The truth expressed in and around this section in Ezekiel is so important. He talks about the fact that God doesn't dwell in the past, or condemn anyone for the past, or even reward anyone for the past (that is, if that person is doing evil in the present). God says, you can change, you can alter your life by doing different things. Specifically here, in this passage, he gives the principle of repentance. God gives a warning of impending doom. If the warning is heeded and the person truly changes, God will change the outcome for the person. But note clearly that this change must be real, not just in word but in deed. And it must demonstrate a desire to right past wrongs.
Application: Many people talk about change. Many people say they want change. But precious few actually take the steps necessary to put the change into practice. This is what true repentance is.
Prayer: Lord, help me and all your people to truly repent. Give us ears to hear your warnings, hearts to receive and grieve, and the will to carry out our repentance with actions of restoration and restitution. Lord, give us the desire and the power by your grace that we may abide in your presence.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Title: Whose Devices? / Topic: The Power Of Choice
Today’s Reading: Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17
Scripture: Psalm 81:8, 11-16
8 "Hear, O my people, and I will warn you—
if you would but listen to me, O Israel!
11 "But my people would not listen to me;
Israel would not submit to me.
12 So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts
to follow their own devices.
13 "If my people would but listen to me,
if Israel would follow my ways,
14 how quickly would I subdue their enemies
and turn my hand against their foes!
15 Those who hate the LORD would cringe before him,
and their punishment would last forever.
16 But you would be fed with the finest of wheat;
with honey from the rock I would satisfy you."
Observation: Two choices, two destinies. The Lord cries out to his people. "If you would but listen to me..." But they would not listen. So he "gave them over to their own stubborn hearts to follow their own devices." Their own devices. That means that their lives are in their own hands. God steps aside. But he would rather step inside. Notice that he stands ready "If my people would but listen to me... how quickly would I subdue their enemies..."
Application: It all depends on whether or not we listen to and follow the Lord. It seems insanity not to follow him. But I have done it and, unfortunately, I will likely do it again. The sin nature also stands ready to step inside and take control. Which choice will I make? Which choice will you make?
Prayer: Lord, I want to listen to and obey you. As the hymn says, "Trust and obey for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey." That's where I want to live.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 81:8, 11-16
8 "Hear, O my people, and I will warn you—
if you would but listen to me, O Israel!
11 "But my people would not listen to me;
Israel would not submit to me.
12 So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts
to follow their own devices.
13 "If my people would but listen to me,
if Israel would follow my ways,
14 how quickly would I subdue their enemies
and turn my hand against their foes!
15 Those who hate the LORD would cringe before him,
and their punishment would last forever.
16 But you would be fed with the finest of wheat;
with honey from the rock I would satisfy you."
Observation: Two choices, two destinies. The Lord cries out to his people. "If you would but listen to me..." But they would not listen. So he "gave them over to their own stubborn hearts to follow their own devices." Their own devices. That means that their lives are in their own hands. God steps aside. But he would rather step inside. Notice that he stands ready "If my people would but listen to me... how quickly would I subdue their enemies..."
Application: It all depends on whether or not we listen to and follow the Lord. It seems insanity not to follow him. But I have done it and, unfortunately, I will likely do it again. The sin nature also stands ready to step inside and take control. Which choice will I make? Which choice will you make?
Prayer: Lord, I want to listen to and obey you. As the hymn says, "Trust and obey for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey." That's where I want to live.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Title: Great Man, Great Humility / Topic: Character
Today’s Reading: Daniel 1; Daniel 2; Revelation 16
Scripture: Daniel 2:27-30
27 Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you lay on your bed are these:
29 "As you were lying there, O king, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen. 30 As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than other living men, but so that you, O king, may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind..."
Observation: I love Daniel. The man and the book. What I love about the man is his sterling character. Here is a young man that has every reason in the world to pity himself, but there is not a hint of self-pity in Daniel. He does not see himself as a victim, because he reckons himself to be in the hands of God -- not his captors. So he views everything as coming to him with God's permission. Therefore he applies God's principles to everything. He doesn't just accept what comes, he believes that he is there as God's representative to influence his world.
And the way he interacts with the king is so great. The king asks him if he is able to interpret the dream. And even though Daniel knows the dream and the interpretation, and even though Daniel is the only one who knows it, Daniel answers with such great humility. "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries."
Application: So rarely do we see great humility today. People promote themselves with loud announcement and great bluster, asserting how great they are. But true greatness needs no bluster or announcement. True greatness can say, "Without God, I could not do it. But because God, I have something to tell you."
Prayer: Lord, I want to be like Daniel.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Daniel 2:27-30
27 Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you lay on your bed are these:
29 "As you were lying there, O king, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen. 30 As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than other living men, but so that you, O king, may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind..."
Observation: I love Daniel. The man and the book. What I love about the man is his sterling character. Here is a young man that has every reason in the world to pity himself, but there is not a hint of self-pity in Daniel. He does not see himself as a victim, because he reckons himself to be in the hands of God -- not his captors. So he views everything as coming to him with God's permission. Therefore he applies God's principles to everything. He doesn't just accept what comes, he believes that he is there as God's representative to influence his world.
And the way he interacts with the king is so great. The king asks him if he is able to interpret the dream. And even though Daniel knows the dream and the interpretation, and even though Daniel is the only one who knows it, Daniel answers with such great humility. "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries."
Application: So rarely do we see great humility today. People promote themselves with loud announcement and great bluster, asserting how great they are. But true greatness needs no bluster or announcement. True greatness can say, "Without God, I could not do it. But because God, I have something to tell you."
Prayer: Lord, I want to be like Daniel.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Title: Depression's Antidote / Topic: The Eternally-Loving Lord
Today’s Reading: Lamentations 3; Lamentations 4; Lamentations 5; Revelation 15
Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-26
22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
25 The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
26 it is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.
by the rod of his wrath.
Observation: This is a familiar passage of scripture. "The compassions of the Lord never fail, they are new every morning. Great is your faithfulness." What I did not realize until reading it today is this: this scripture follows a cry of affliction. Verses 1-21 give a sad tale of woe by a man who has seen his world turned upside down and who has lost all hope -- except for one. Look at the verses immediately preceding the passage above: "So I say, 'My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the LORD.' I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me." (vss. 18-20). The writer is in great distress. But then he pauses and says in verse 21, "Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope..." and leads us into the beautiful and inspiring truths of the constant renewal of God's tender mercies.
Application: There is no depression so deep or calamity so dire that the reflection on God's mercies would not raise the spirits and hopes of those who will seize the moment to turn their thoughts upward. Hope springs eternal when one's hope is in the eternally-loving Lord.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for always being there and for your mercies that are always ministered in our direction. I love you and thank you that you will never fail. May I always abide in your tender mercies.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-26
22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
25 The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
26 it is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.
by the rod of his wrath.
Observation: This is a familiar passage of scripture. "The compassions of the Lord never fail, they are new every morning. Great is your faithfulness." What I did not realize until reading it today is this: this scripture follows a cry of affliction. Verses 1-21 give a sad tale of woe by a man who has seen his world turned upside down and who has lost all hope -- except for one. Look at the verses immediately preceding the passage above: "So I say, 'My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the LORD.' I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me." (vss. 18-20). The writer is in great distress. But then he pauses and says in verse 21, "Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope..." and leads us into the beautiful and inspiring truths of the constant renewal of God's tender mercies.
Application: There is no depression so deep or calamity so dire that the reflection on God's mercies would not raise the spirits and hopes of those who will seize the moment to turn their thoughts upward. Hope springs eternal when one's hope is in the eternally-loving Lord.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for always being there and for your mercies that are always ministered in our direction. I love you and thank you that you will never fail. May I always abide in your tender mercies.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Title: Tragic Turns / Topic: Destructive Outcomes
Today’s Reading: Lamentations 1; Lamentations 2; Obadiah 1; Revelation 14
Scripture: Lamentations 2:5, 14
5 The Lord is like an enemy;
he has swallowed up Israel.
He has swallowed up all her palaces
and destroyed her strongholds.
He has multiplied mourning and lamentation
for the Daughter of Judah.
14 The visions of your prophets
were false and worthless;
they did not expose your sin
to ward off your captivity.
The oracles they gave you
were false and misleading.
Observation/Application: These two verses in Lamentations 2 jumped out at me.
Verse 5 is jolting! "The Lord is like an enemy..." How incredibly tragic it is that this nation (Israel) whom the Lord loved as his chosen possession should live in such a way that the Lord himself eventually becomes as their enemy. It just reminds me that it is my responsiblity to keep my relationship with the Lord healthy. It is possible to start in a good place and end in a terribly destructive place. I am the one who (with God's help) determines the course of these matters.
Verses 14 got my attention because it suscintly expresses the purpose of prophets. Prophets are to expose sin and speak in such a way as to give the hearers the opportunity to repent. Without honest prophetic voices, you and I will inevitably veer into the paths of destruction. It's as simple as that.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, keep me on your path. I want to grow in you every day. I want to walk with you every day. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Lamentations 2:5, 14
5 The Lord is like an enemy;
he has swallowed up Israel.
He has swallowed up all her palaces
and destroyed her strongholds.
He has multiplied mourning and lamentation
for the Daughter of Judah.
14 The visions of your prophets
were false and worthless;
they did not expose your sin
to ward off your captivity.
The oracles they gave you
were false and misleading.
Observation/Application: These two verses in Lamentations 2 jumped out at me.
Verse 5 is jolting! "The Lord is like an enemy..." How incredibly tragic it is that this nation (Israel) whom the Lord loved as his chosen possession should live in such a way that the Lord himself eventually becomes as their enemy. It just reminds me that it is my responsiblity to keep my relationship with the Lord healthy. It is possible to start in a good place and end in a terribly destructive place. I am the one who (with God's help) determines the course of these matters.
Verses 14 got my attention because it suscintly expresses the purpose of prophets. Prophets are to expose sin and speak in such a way as to give the hearers the opportunity to repent. Without honest prophetic voices, you and I will inevitably veer into the paths of destruction. It's as simple as that.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, keep me on your path. I want to grow in you every day. I want to walk with you every day. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Title: Avoid And Seek / Topic: Victorious Living
Today’s Reading: Jonah 1; Jonah 2; Jonah 3; Jonah 4; 2 Timothy 2
Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:20-22
20 In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. 21 If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.
22 Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Observation: "Just say 'no'" doesn't get it done. It is not enough to avoid the bad. This is good advice as far as it goes, but it does not go far enough. Paul points out that there are bad things to be avoided and good things that we must seek. There is the "ignoble" that we must cleanse ourselves of and there are "noble purposes" that we must seek. There are "the evil desires of youth" that we must flee, and there are "righteousness, faith, love and peace" that we must pursue. It takes action in the negative and the positive to be the people that God intends us to be.
Application: We must couple effort in both directions to live victoriously. And notice the last phrase in this passage: "along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." This speaks to the great truth that we need to partner with others who will support us in the pursuit of Godliness. No one can get there alone -- we must be connected heart, soul, mind, and with physical interaction to achieve the goal of Christ-likeness. So let us be busy about connecting to God and to others to become the people that God wants us to be. Let us intentionally and diligently avoid the bad and pursue the good so that we may fully realize God's puposes for our lives.
Prayer: Lord, this is my prayer, that I and those who are with me may be faithful in following you and shunning evil. That we may commit ourselves to your noble purposes for our lives and steer clear of anything that pollutes or corrupts Godly character within us. Thank you for your faithfulness. May we follow you fully.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:20-22
20 In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. 21 If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.
22 Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Observation: "Just say 'no'" doesn't get it done. It is not enough to avoid the bad. This is good advice as far as it goes, but it does not go far enough. Paul points out that there are bad things to be avoided and good things that we must seek. There is the "ignoble" that we must cleanse ourselves of and there are "noble purposes" that we must seek. There are "the evil desires of youth" that we must flee, and there are "righteousness, faith, love and peace" that we must pursue. It takes action in the negative and the positive to be the people that God intends us to be.
Application: We must couple effort in both directions to live victoriously. And notice the last phrase in this passage: "along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." This speaks to the great truth that we need to partner with others who will support us in the pursuit of Godliness. No one can get there alone -- we must be connected heart, soul, mind, and with physical interaction to achieve the goal of Christ-likeness. So let us be busy about connecting to God and to others to become the people that God wants us to be. Let us intentionally and diligently avoid the bad and pursue the good so that we may fully realize God's puposes for our lives.
Prayer: Lord, this is my prayer, that I and those who are with me may be faithful in following you and shunning evil. That we may commit ourselves to your noble purposes for our lives and steer clear of anything that pollutes or corrupts Godly character within us. Thank you for your faithfulness. May we follow you fully.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Title: The Best Fruit / Topic: Moral Excellence
Today’s Reading: Song of Solomon 5; Song of Solomon 6; Song of Solomon 7; Song of Solomon 8; Philippians 1
Scripture: Philippians 1:9-11
9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Observation: "...filled with the fruit of righteousness..." What a great prayer! And what a great aspiration: to have my life "filled with the fruit of righteousness." I define righteousness as "moral excellence lived out -- the realization of true purity and justice in my day-to-day life."
Application: To have moral excellence and true purity and justice requires that I let God have me and let him live his life through me. By submission and surrender, I make possible God acting through me as a channel of his fullness and goodness. That's the way I want to live.
Prayer: Lord, it is my desire to increase my capacity to be a channel through which your life can be expressed. Assist and enable me to live for you for fully each and every day. I will live for you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Philippians 1:9-11
9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Observation: "...filled with the fruit of righteousness..." What a great prayer! And what a great aspiration: to have my life "filled with the fruit of righteousness." I define righteousness as "moral excellence lived out -- the realization of true purity and justice in my day-to-day life."
Application: To have moral excellence and true purity and justice requires that I let God have me and let him live his life through me. By submission and surrender, I make possible God acting through me as a channel of his fullness and goodness. That's the way I want to live.
Prayer: Lord, it is my desire to increase my capacity to be a channel through which your life can be expressed. Assist and enable me to live for you for fully each and every day. I will live for you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Title: Do What Is Necessary To Stand / Topic: The Armor Of God
Today’s Reading: Song of Solomon 1; Song of Solomon 2; Song of Solomon 3; Song of Solomon 4; Ephesians 6
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-13
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Observation: This is the crowning finish to Paul's letter to the Ephesians. "Finally, be strong in the Lord..." His letter has been filled with instructions on living up to the calling of God. (Eph. 4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.) And here he is leaving the Ephesian believers with the secret to victorious living. It's being strong in God and utilizing "the full armor of God." Paul points out that we are engaged in a struggle with invisible forces. To win the battle, we must do "everything" -- making full use of the "full armor". It would be unwise to go into any battle without the full armor. Whatever piece or pieces were missing would expose a vulnerability that could allow the enemy to kill us.
Application: So Paul wants us to win -- to stand our ground, to do everything, and to stand. This speaks to me of a thorough and complete obedience to God. What are the things I can do to build myself spiritually? I must do them all. Are there requests that I have felt God making of me that I have not fulfilled? Fulfill them all. Are there areas of weakness that I know of? Address my weaknesses. I must do all to be the one still standing when the battle is over. Anything less is a recipe for disaster and defeat. Do it all -- and stand.
Prayer: Lord, I do desire to be one who is standing with you at the end. I don't want to be a casualty. (Even the word casualty has the word casual as its root. Help me not to be casual about the battle.) Strengthen me in your might. May I stand and help others to stand for you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-13
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Observation: This is the crowning finish to Paul's letter to the Ephesians. "Finally, be strong in the Lord..." His letter has been filled with instructions on living up to the calling of God. (Eph. 4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.) And here he is leaving the Ephesian believers with the secret to victorious living. It's being strong in God and utilizing "the full armor of God." Paul points out that we are engaged in a struggle with invisible forces. To win the battle, we must do "everything" -- making full use of the "full armor". It would be unwise to go into any battle without the full armor. Whatever piece or pieces were missing would expose a vulnerability that could allow the enemy to kill us.
Application: So Paul wants us to win -- to stand our ground, to do everything, and to stand. This speaks to me of a thorough and complete obedience to God. What are the things I can do to build myself spiritually? I must do them all. Are there requests that I have felt God making of me that I have not fulfilled? Fulfill them all. Are there areas of weakness that I know of? Address my weaknesses. I must do all to be the one still standing when the battle is over. Anything less is a recipe for disaster and defeat. Do it all -- and stand.
Prayer: Lord, I do desire to be one who is standing with you at the end. I don't want to be a casualty. (Even the word casualty has the word casual as its root. Help me not to be casual about the battle.) Strengthen me in your might. May I stand and help others to stand for you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Title: The Great Divide / Topic: Knowledge vs. Love
Today’s Reading: Ecclesiastes 4; Ecclesiastes 5; Ecclesiastes 6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 5:1, 2, 7; Psalm 18:1
(Solomon:) Ecclesiastes 5:1 Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.
2 ...God is in heaven
and you are on earth,
so let your words be few.
7 ...stand in awe of God.
(David:) Psalm 18:1 I love you, O LORD, my strength.
2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.
He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies.
Observation: What a contrast there is between Solomon and David -- their relationship to God. To Solomon, God is distant and imposing and demanding. To David, God is near and ready to help. Read the scriptures above again and note the differences. David expresses his feelings for God like this: "I love you, O Lord." Solomon addresses God in the third person and advises, "stand in awe of God."
Application: This is another example of how knowledge of God is not the same as passion for God. I meet many people who call themselves Christians (or religious, or spiritual) who have a knowledge of God. Some have studied intensely and have gathered amazing information and insight about God. But the ones who do not have a passionate love for God don't really get God at all. To them he is awesome but not dear. I want to know God, not just know about God. I want to be passionate and intimate with him.
Prayer: Lord, my desire is to know you and love you from the deepest part of my being. Enable me to make my desire my reality.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 5:1, 2, 7; Psalm 18:1
(Solomon:) Ecclesiastes 5:1 Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.
2 ...God is in heaven
and you are on earth,
so let your words be few.
7 ...stand in awe of God.
(David:) Psalm 18:1 I love you, O LORD, my strength.
2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.
He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies.
Observation: What a contrast there is between Solomon and David -- their relationship to God. To Solomon, God is distant and imposing and demanding. To David, God is near and ready to help. Read the scriptures above again and note the differences. David expresses his feelings for God like this: "I love you, O Lord." Solomon addresses God in the third person and advises, "stand in awe of God."
Application: This is another example of how knowledge of God is not the same as passion for God. I meet many people who call themselves Christians (or religious, or spiritual) who have a knowledge of God. Some have studied intensely and have gathered amazing information and insight about God. But the ones who do not have a passionate love for God don't really get God at all. To them he is awesome but not dear. I want to know God, not just know about God. I want to be passionate and intimate with him.
Prayer: Lord, my desire is to know you and love you from the deepest part of my being. Enable me to make my desire my reality.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Title: Having Everything But The Right Thing / Topic: Empty Living
Today’s Reading: Ecclesiastes 1; Ecclesiastes 2; Ecclesiastes 3; Psalm 45; Ephesians 2
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 1:17 Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.
Observation: Solomon's Ecclesiastes is the testament of a sad man. God had given Solomon a gift of wisdom but he had pursued it for its own ends. Solomon forgot to pursue God, the great Giver of gifts. The end result is that everything has become meaningless to him (vs. 2). And verse 17 caught my attention. After getting so much knowledge and finding it unfulfilling, Solomon decides to widen his pursuit to the study of madness and folly! Talk about your wrong turns! No wonder Ecclesiastes is filled with so much confusion.
Application: So many people pursue things that don't fulfill. The things are not necessarily bad in and of themselves, but without God as the basis, they just don't fill the bill.
Bottom line: pursue God first. It is better to have God and nothing else than to have everything else and not God.
Prayer: Lord, all I want I find in you. Help me to keep pursuing you above all else.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 1:17 Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.
Observation: Solomon's Ecclesiastes is the testament of a sad man. God had given Solomon a gift of wisdom but he had pursued it for its own ends. Solomon forgot to pursue God, the great Giver of gifts. The end result is that everything has become meaningless to him (vs. 2). And verse 17 caught my attention. After getting so much knowledge and finding it unfulfilling, Solomon decides to widen his pursuit to the study of madness and folly! Talk about your wrong turns! No wonder Ecclesiastes is filled with so much confusion.
Application: So many people pursue things that don't fulfill. The things are not necessarily bad in and of themselves, but without God as the basis, they just don't fill the bill.
Bottom line: pursue God first. It is better to have God and nothing else than to have everything else and not God.
Prayer: Lord, all I want I find in you. Help me to keep pursuing you above all else.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, June 01, 2007
Title: Strike The Balance / Topic: Correct Doctrine
Today’s Reading: Proverbs 19; Proverbs 20; Proverbs 21; Romans 13
Scripture: Romans 13:1-7
1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
Observation: Absolute. That is what the verses above seem to convey. They seem to present an absolute truth that if there is a ruler (king, president, dictator, governor, prince, etc.), this person has been hand picked, appointed, and ordained by God. And if the absolute is absolute, then we are to submit to every ruler, no matter what. That would mean that when Hitler instructed the people to turn in the Jews, and when he instructed the extermination camp guards to gas them, the righteous thing would be for the people and the guards to obey his instructions. But that would make God supportive of and complicit with the worst kinds of evil. So something must be wrong with that absolute interpretation. This is where the rule of context is so important. The context of these verses describes the "God-established" authority. It describes that authority as one who "hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong" and who is an "agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." This "God-established" authority commends those who do right. Therefore Hitler (and any of hundreds of other megalomaniacal authorities) does not meet the description of this kind of ruler. Does the Bible support this assertion or is this simply my own logic and sense of morality that I am imposing on the Bible? Well, I'm glad you asked because the Bible itself gives us and indication that the principal in question may not be so absolute after all. In Hosea 8:4 the Lord says, "They set up kings without my consent; they choose princes without my approval." In other words, these rulers are not God's choice -- they are not approved by God. So the injunction to submission based on authority figures as God's servants cannot be universally applied.
Application: This is already too long for a devotional post. I don't want to turn this into a theological treatise so I will leave it here. The basic application is that each of us must be careful in understanding and applying the truth of the Bible to our own lives and the lives of others. There is often a subtle balance that requires a deeper understanding of the whole of the Bible to put truths into practice in a way that truly reflects God's character. And reflecting God's character is the point, after all.
Prayer: Lord, help your people -- help me -- to understand and implement your truth in the most fully correct way. Enable your servants to reflect the beauty of you in all we do and say and think.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Romans 13:1-7
1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
Observation: Absolute. That is what the verses above seem to convey. They seem to present an absolute truth that if there is a ruler (king, president, dictator, governor, prince, etc.), this person has been hand picked, appointed, and ordained by God. And if the absolute is absolute, then we are to submit to every ruler, no matter what. That would mean that when Hitler instructed the people to turn in the Jews, and when he instructed the extermination camp guards to gas them, the righteous thing would be for the people and the guards to obey his instructions. But that would make God supportive of and complicit with the worst kinds of evil. So something must be wrong with that absolute interpretation. This is where the rule of context is so important. The context of these verses describes the "God-established" authority. It describes that authority as one who "hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong" and who is an "agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." This "God-established" authority commends those who do right. Therefore Hitler (and any of hundreds of other megalomaniacal authorities) does not meet the description of this kind of ruler. Does the Bible support this assertion or is this simply my own logic and sense of morality that I am imposing on the Bible? Well, I'm glad you asked because the Bible itself gives us and indication that the principal in question may not be so absolute after all. In Hosea 8:4 the Lord says, "They set up kings without my consent; they choose princes without my approval." In other words, these rulers are not God's choice -- they are not approved by God. So the injunction to submission based on authority figures as God's servants cannot be universally applied.
Application: This is already too long for a devotional post. I don't want to turn this into a theological treatise so I will leave it here. The basic application is that each of us must be careful in understanding and applying the truth of the Bible to our own lives and the lives of others. There is often a subtle balance that requires a deeper understanding of the whole of the Bible to put truths into practice in a way that truly reflects God's character. And reflecting God's character is the point, after all.
Prayer: Lord, help your people -- help me -- to understand and implement your truth in the most fully correct way. Enable your servants to reflect the beauty of you in all we do and say and think.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Title: The Ridiculous Me / Topic: Humility
Today’s Reading: Proverbs 16; Proverbs 17; Proverbs 18; Romans 12
Scripture: Romans 12:3-5
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Observation: "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought..." These words of the Apostle Paul are so contrary to the spirit of our age. I was contrasting them with the attitude of some of the contestants I've seen recently on reality TV shows. Whether it is dancing or singing, so many people who have little or no talent truly seem to think that they are extraordinarily gifted. We have created a culture (with the help of the so-called self-esteem movement) that praises mediocrity and idolizes children as heroes just for being children. What a bunch of bunk. The focus on individual rights, privileges, and accomplishments has created an army of narcissistic, selfish, demanding, prima donnas who contribute little or nothing to the betterment of the human race.
Application: The key in this verse as I see it is to understand that we aren't alone -- "each member belongs to all the others." Of course, this is in the context of belonging to Christ and his body, the church. This automatically creates a sense of obligation and responsibility to others. Therefore, my individual success apart from the group is not true success. For me to succeed, the entire group must succeed. This keeps me from a self focus that promotes the inappropriate self-image that Paul warns against: "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment."
Prayer: Thank you, Father, that you have placed me into a family that helps me to stay grounded in you and connected to others. Help me to make a great contribution by my life to the success of others.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Romans 12:3-5
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Observation: "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought..." These words of the Apostle Paul are so contrary to the spirit of our age. I was contrasting them with the attitude of some of the contestants I've seen recently on reality TV shows. Whether it is dancing or singing, so many people who have little or no talent truly seem to think that they are extraordinarily gifted. We have created a culture (with the help of the so-called self-esteem movement) that praises mediocrity and idolizes children as heroes just for being children. What a bunch of bunk. The focus on individual rights, privileges, and accomplishments has created an army of narcissistic, selfish, demanding, prima donnas who contribute little or nothing to the betterment of the human race.
Application: The key in this verse as I see it is to understand that we aren't alone -- "each member belongs to all the others." Of course, this is in the context of belonging to Christ and his body, the church. This automatically creates a sense of obligation and responsibility to others. Therefore, my individual success apart from the group is not true success. For me to succeed, the entire group must succeed. This keeps me from a self focus that promotes the inappropriate self-image that Paul warns against: "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment."
Prayer: Thank you, Father, that you have placed me into a family that helps me to stay grounded in you and connected to others. Help me to make a great contribution by my life to the success of others.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Title: The Love Of Death / Topic: Destructive Behaviors
Today’s Reading: Proverbs 7; Proverbs 8; Proverbs 9; Romans 9
Scripture: Proverbs 8:36 But whoever fails to find me harms himself;
all who hate me love death."
Observation: What struck me as I read this is the fact that so many people today that anti-God fit the description given above. They harm themselves through a variety of means (drugs, alcohol, dangerous pastimes, etc.), mutilating their own bodies (piercings, tattoos, etc.), and they have a fixation with death (skulls, gothic items, Halloween, etc.). So many of these people aren't just unbelievers, they are against-believers. They despise God and those who represent him. These God haters go out of their way to express their desire to be free of God and in the process do themselves harm and embrace death.
Application: Stay sweet and be conscious that those of us who name the name of Jesus will be reviled by many. It is my duty to come in an opposite spirit, even loving my enemies. Perhaps some of these people can be won over by a gentle answer that turns away wrath.
Prayer: Lord, help your church to be living in such a way that you are glorified. Forgive us for all the ways in which we have represented you poorly -- with our divisions, our failures, and the like. May each of your people take the responsibility to declare you well to the world.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Proverbs 8:36 But whoever fails to find me harms himself;
all who hate me love death."
Observation: What struck me as I read this is the fact that so many people today that anti-God fit the description given above. They harm themselves through a variety of means (drugs, alcohol, dangerous pastimes, etc.), mutilating their own bodies (piercings, tattoos, etc.), and they have a fixation with death (skulls, gothic items, Halloween, etc.). So many of these people aren't just unbelievers, they are against-believers. They despise God and those who represent him. These God haters go out of their way to express their desire to be free of God and in the process do themselves harm and embrace death.
Application: Stay sweet and be conscious that those of us who name the name of Jesus will be reviled by many. It is my duty to come in an opposite spirit, even loving my enemies. Perhaps some of these people can be won over by a gentle answer that turns away wrath.
Prayer: Lord, help your church to be living in such a way that you are glorified. Forgive us for all the ways in which we have represented you poorly -- with our divisions, our failures, and the like. May each of your people take the responsibility to declare you well to the world.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Title: Slavery Benefit? / Topic: Choices
Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 10; 1 Kings 11; 2 Chronicles 9; Romans 6
Scripture: Romans 620-22
20 When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. 21 What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! 22 But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.
Observation: "You gotta serve somebody," goes the old Bob Dylan song and it is true. The Apostle Paul points out that the most basic choice is between serving sin and serving God. Serving sin makes you "free from the control of righteousness" but brings no tangible benefit. In fact this "freedom" results in death. When I make choice to become a slave to God, I become "set free from sin" and that freedom gives a great benefit. It "leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life."
Application: Holiness, in and of itself, is a great benefit. I define holiness as the awareness of belonging completely to God. This awareness brings a kind of seasoning to every aspect of life -- thoughts, actions, attitudes, desires, words, loves, hopes -- that involves God through and through. I am so grateful that God is in everything I do. Even if I do wrong -- acting selfishly or unwisely -- God is still there, correcting me, encouraging me to do better, and enabling me to improve. "Eternal life" is not just about heaven -- it is about really living a full, good, and happy life in the now.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the fullness of you in the now. I have chosen to be your slave and I thank you for the productive and blessed life you have given me as a result. Assist me in leading thousands of people to this same kind of blessed life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Romans 620-22
20 When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. 21 What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! 22 But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.
Observation: "You gotta serve somebody," goes the old Bob Dylan song and it is true. The Apostle Paul points out that the most basic choice is between serving sin and serving God. Serving sin makes you "free from the control of righteousness" but brings no tangible benefit. In fact this "freedom" results in death. When I make choice to become a slave to God, I become "set free from sin" and that freedom gives a great benefit. It "leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life."
Application: Holiness, in and of itself, is a great benefit. I define holiness as the awareness of belonging completely to God. This awareness brings a kind of seasoning to every aspect of life -- thoughts, actions, attitudes, desires, words, loves, hopes -- that involves God through and through. I am so grateful that God is in everything I do. Even if I do wrong -- acting selfishly or unwisely -- God is still there, correcting me, encouraging me to do better, and enabling me to improve. "Eternal life" is not just about heaven -- it is about really living a full, good, and happy life in the now.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the fullness of you in the now. I have chosen to be your slave and I thank you for the productive and blessed life you have given me as a result. Assist me in leading thousands of people to this same kind of blessed life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Title: Holy Confusion / Topic: Consecration
Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 9; 2 Chronicles 8; Psalm 136; Romans 5
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 8:11
11 Solomon brought Pharaoh's daughter up from the City of David to the palace he had built for her, for he said, "My wife must not live in the palace of David king of Israel, because the places the ark of the LORD has entered are holy."
Observation: Solomon has taken Pharaoh's daughter as his wife. (This is apparently more of a political alliance than a romantic one.) But the reason he gives for building a separate palace for her grabbed my attention. She is a gentile, not a Jew, and as a result, she is unclean. And Solomon doesn't want her around David's palace in Jerusalem because the ark has been in an about it. Solomon regards not only the ark as holy but also asserts, "the places the ark of the Lord has entered are holy." So he is unwilling to let Pharaoh's daughter be in those places. But what about Solomon himself? Isn't he holy? He is the anointed king of Israel. Why would he be willing to compromise himself, in this most sacred of relationships, and his body, in the most intimate of acts, in being married to this person that he considers unclean and unworthy? Strange that he thinks the ark is holy but he is not. Holy confusion here.
Application: Many people compartmentalize God in their lives. God gets the following: Sunday morning, a moment before each meal, and a few seconds before going to bed. That time is holy. "The rest of the time is mine," they think. So God stays in his compartment. As long as he stays there, everything is fine. But God cannot be confined in a box. (If we have successfully confined our god to a box, what is in that box is not really God at all.) God is bigger than our boxes, no matter how big we may make them. I assert that God cannot be a part of our lives. We can be a part of God's life. The word that comes to mind in this regard is consecration. It is a word that describes the full and total giving of myself to God. I give my entire life and being to God and I live in him. Had Solomon understood this correctly, seeing himself as holy and consecrated to God, he would not have married Pharaoh's daughter, would not have worshipped idols and other gods, and would have left a legacy of faithfulness that would be a blessing to his descendants, instead of a curse.
Prayer: Lord, I belong to you. All of me. I am consecrated to you. Keep me from anything that violates that.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 8:11
11 Solomon brought Pharaoh's daughter up from the City of David to the palace he had built for her, for he said, "My wife must not live in the palace of David king of Israel, because the places the ark of the LORD has entered are holy."
Observation: Solomon has taken Pharaoh's daughter as his wife. (This is apparently more of a political alliance than a romantic one.) But the reason he gives for building a separate palace for her grabbed my attention. She is a gentile, not a Jew, and as a result, she is unclean. And Solomon doesn't want her around David's palace in Jerusalem because the ark has been in an about it. Solomon regards not only the ark as holy but also asserts, "the places the ark of the Lord has entered are holy." So he is unwilling to let Pharaoh's daughter be in those places. But what about Solomon himself? Isn't he holy? He is the anointed king of Israel. Why would he be willing to compromise himself, in this most sacred of relationships, and his body, in the most intimate of acts, in being married to this person that he considers unclean and unworthy? Strange that he thinks the ark is holy but he is not. Holy confusion here.
Application: Many people compartmentalize God in their lives. God gets the following: Sunday morning, a moment before each meal, and a few seconds before going to bed. That time is holy. "The rest of the time is mine," they think. So God stays in his compartment. As long as he stays there, everything is fine. But God cannot be confined in a box. (If we have successfully confined our god to a box, what is in that box is not really God at all.) God is bigger than our boxes, no matter how big we may make them. I assert that God cannot be a part of our lives. We can be a part of God's life. The word that comes to mind in this regard is consecration. It is a word that describes the full and total giving of myself to God. I give my entire life and being to God and I live in him. Had Solomon understood this correctly, seeing himself as holy and consecrated to God, he would not have married Pharaoh's daughter, would not have worshipped idols and other gods, and would have left a legacy of faithfulness that would be a blessing to his descendants, instead of a curse.
Prayer: Lord, I belong to you. All of me. I am consecrated to you. Keep me from anything that violates that.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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