Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 28; Deuteronomy 29; Galatians 6
Scripture: Deuteronomy 28:20, 63; 29:19-21, 24, 28
28:20 The LORD will send on you curses, confusion and rebuke in everything you put your hand to, until you are destroyed and come to sudden ruin because of the evil you have done in forsaking him...
63 Just as it pleased the LORD to make you prosper and increase in number, so it will please him to ruin and destroy you. You will be uprooted from the land you are entering to possess.
29:19 When such a person hears the words of this oath, he invokes a blessing on himself and therefore thinks, "I will be safe, even though I persist in going my own way." This will bring disaster on the watered land as well as the dry. 20 The LORD will never be willing to forgive him; his wrath and zeal will burn against that man. All the curses written in this book will fall upon him, and the LORD will blot out his name from under heaven. 21 The LORD will single him out from all the tribes of Israel for disaster, according to all the curses of the covenant written in this Book of the Law...
24 All the nations will ask: "Why has the LORD done this to this land? Why this fierce, burning anger?"...
28 In furious anger and in great wrath the LORD uprooted them from their land and thrust them into another land, as it is now."
Observation: This depiction of God's anger directed toward those who turn away from him is horrific and frightening for those of us who take the word of God seriously. Note the italicized phrases above. God's anger is grim and the consequences for those who are objects of this anger are dire.
Application: I, like most Christians today, primarily focus on the "love side" of God. I don't really like these chapters because they detail a kind of harshness and severity that I do not normally associate with God. And yet it is a part of who God is: it is in the Bible. This causes me to pause and think that my view of God, as almost exclusively loving and kind and forgiving, isn't quite complete. There is this "dark side" of God: the punisher, the vengeful, the relentless pursuer.
To be honest, I wish God wasn't that way. But God is God and he is perfect and right in all his ways. The fact that these aspects of his nature cause me discomfort reveals flaws in me, not in God.
One thing is clear: don't mess with God. When I consider passages as above, I think that often, I must not approach my life with God with enough seriousness. As the Bible says, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your mercy. I pray that my life would never cause you to relate to me through your wrath, but that I will dwell in the loving shadow of your wings always. Lord, have mercy upon me, a sinner.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Friday, March 14, 2008
Title: Keys To Victory / Topic: The Spiritual War
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 25; Deuteronomy 26; Deuteronomy 27; Galatians 5
#1 Scripture: Deuteronomy 25:17-18
17 Remember what the Amalekites did to you along the way when you came out of Egypt. 18 When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and cut off all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God.
#1 Observation: The Amalekites attacked the Israelites during their forty years of wandering. But it was not a frontal assault. They picked off "all who were lagging behind."
#1 Application: It is dangerous to become separate from the main body. If a believer gets behind, he is isolated and vulnerable to all manner of spiritual attack. Therefore, stay in the center of the life of the church body.
16 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
[#2a Observation: There is not only spiritual warfare that is external, there is a battle within and if we don't fight, we lose. We must be led by the Spirit to fight and win the internal war.]
19 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
[#2b Observation: This is quite a list! It is so obvious that these things are harmful to humans -- these things destroy people. And these things not only damage a person, they make a person damaging to others.]
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
[#2c Observation: The contrast between this list and the last is striking! What beautiful characteristics are listed here in contrast with the ugly and damaging practices of the previous list. I also notice several action words that are required. I must: 1) give myself to Jesus ("belong"), 2) crucify the sinful nature, 3) live by the Spirit, 4) keep in step with the Spirit (which also keeps us safe from lagging behind as I discussed above), 5) shun conceit, 6) avoid provocation and envy.]
#2 Application: To fight and win the spiritual war requires an active awareness of the spiritual battle within and without. It means self-awareness and self-denial, shunning activities that degrade, walking in harmony with the Spirit and in God's power. And it results in a good and Godly character.
Prayer: Lord, lead me in your ways. I want to have your power strong in me so that I can win the internal and external battles and be victorious in the spiritual war.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
#1 Scripture: Deuteronomy 25:17-18
17 Remember what the Amalekites did to you along the way when you came out of Egypt. 18 When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and cut off all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God.
#1 Observation: The Amalekites attacked the Israelites during their forty years of wandering. But it was not a frontal assault. They picked off "all who were lagging behind."
#1 Application: It is dangerous to become separate from the main body. If a believer gets behind, he is isolated and vulnerable to all manner of spiritual attack. Therefore, stay in the center of the life of the church body.
~
#2 Scripture: Galatians 5:16-2616 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
[#2a Observation: There is not only spiritual warfare that is external, there is a battle within and if we don't fight, we lose. We must be led by the Spirit to fight and win the internal war.]
19 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
[#2b Observation: This is quite a list! It is so obvious that these things are harmful to humans -- these things destroy people. And these things not only damage a person, they make a person damaging to others.]
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
[#2c Observation: The contrast between this list and the last is striking! What beautiful characteristics are listed here in contrast with the ugly and damaging practices of the previous list. I also notice several action words that are required. I must: 1) give myself to Jesus ("belong"), 2) crucify the sinful nature, 3) live by the Spirit, 4) keep in step with the Spirit (which also keeps us safe from lagging behind as I discussed above), 5) shun conceit, 6) avoid provocation and envy.]
#2 Application: To fight and win the spiritual war requires an active awareness of the spiritual battle within and without. It means self-awareness and self-denial, shunning activities that degrade, walking in harmony with the Spirit and in God's power. And it results in a good and Godly character.
Prayer: Lord, lead me in your ways. I want to have your power strong in me so that I can win the internal and external battles and be victorious in the spiritual war.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Title: The Sad Retreat / Topic: Spiritual Battle
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 22; Deuteronomy 23; Deuteronomy 24; Galatians 4
Scripture: Galatians 4:9 But now that you know God—or rather are known by God — how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?
Observation: The thought in this verse encapsulates the message of Paul's letter to the Galatians. These people had experienced salvation with all the blessings and benefits. But they had been won over by people who added a bunch of extra requirements to the Gospel, to the point where it wasn't the Gospel at all. Paul asks them why? Why would anyone who had experienced the blessing of knowing God want to walk away from that? Why would anyone who had been set free from bondages of various kinds leave the freedom and go back to the bondage? Paul asks, "Do you want to be slaves again?"
Application: "Survey says: apparently yes!" While I personally cannot understand it, many people do go back to the bondages that at one time had tormented them. Many people forsake the blessings and freedoms they had found in Christ and go back to the bondages and vexations of their lives before Christ. This shows the power of sin and the frustration of the inner struggle that people have. Apparently they would rather just give in to the sin than to contend with the fight against it.
Bottom line: Because the battle is stressful, we must be intentional to use God's power (rather than our own), and the support of others (rather than fighting solo), to keep ourselves from getting so discouraged that we face burn out and give up. With God's strength and the help and encouragement of others, we can stay strong and victorious.
Prayer: Lord, help me to lead others in the consistent pursuit of you and your will and ways. And help me to strengthen myself and others to fight and win the battle.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Galatians 4:9 But now that you know God—or rather are known by God — how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?
Observation: The thought in this verse encapsulates the message of Paul's letter to the Galatians. These people had experienced salvation with all the blessings and benefits. But they had been won over by people who added a bunch of extra requirements to the Gospel, to the point where it wasn't the Gospel at all. Paul asks them why? Why would anyone who had experienced the blessing of knowing God want to walk away from that? Why would anyone who had been set free from bondages of various kinds leave the freedom and go back to the bondage? Paul asks, "Do you want to be slaves again?"
Application: "Survey says: apparently yes!" While I personally cannot understand it, many people do go back to the bondages that at one time had tormented them. Many people forsake the blessings and freedoms they had found in Christ and go back to the bondages and vexations of their lives before Christ. This shows the power of sin and the frustration of the inner struggle that people have. Apparently they would rather just give in to the sin than to contend with the fight against it.
Bottom line: Because the battle is stressful, we must be intentional to use God's power (rather than our own), and the support of others (rather than fighting solo), to keep ourselves from getting so discouraged that we face burn out and give up. With God's strength and the help and encouragement of others, we can stay strong and victorious.
Prayer: Lord, help me to lead others in the consistent pursuit of you and your will and ways. And help me to strengthen myself and others to fight and win the battle.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Title: The Divine Mentor / Topic: Serving God
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 13; Deuteronomy 14; Deuteronomy 15; Galatians 1
Scripture: Galatians 1:10-17
10 Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
11 I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.
16 ...I did not consult any man, 17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus.
Observation: Paul makes quite a fuss about the fact that his ministry had it origins only with God. His was a gospel that came from God. He was not taught it by men, it was not shaped by consultations with others. It came directly "by revelation from Jesus Christ" was honed by God in solitary meditation in remote places. As a result, Paul feels beholden to no man -- he only strives to "win the approval... of God." This frees him from the tyranny of popularity, that is, being subject to the winds and whims of public approval.
Application: What freedom there is for Paul in having only one master. And what power in having a direct connection with God. So many people come to God through others and never get beyond that. Their faith is a second-hand faith that relies heavily upon those who brought the Gospel to them. But the true point of the Gospel is to bring people to the cross where they can get to know, in the deepest sense, God himself through Jesus Christ. Their connection is direct, their relationship is first-person, and this results in a strong, deep bond, not easily broken. The function of others is to reinforce and encourage this bond, but others do not provide the bond and others cannot destroy it. When I understand this, God himself becomes my mentor. We see this with Paul. And when we have it ourselves, what strength and security we have -- and what opportunities for growth into maturity. Those who are too dependent on others can too easily slip away from God.
Prayer: I want to know YOU, Lord, in the fullness of who you are. You are the only one who has the goods that I must have. Thank you for those who help and support and encourage me as I follow you. But I thank you that my relationship with you does not rely on them. I have an anchor: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, that holds my life fast upon the solid rock no matter what storm may come. Thank you for the direct bond that you have given me and help me to strengthen in all my days and in all my ways.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Galatians 1:10-17
10 Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
11 I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.
16 ...I did not consult any man, 17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus.
Observation: Paul makes quite a fuss about the fact that his ministry had it origins only with God. His was a gospel that came from God. He was not taught it by men, it was not shaped by consultations with others. It came directly "by revelation from Jesus Christ" was honed by God in solitary meditation in remote places. As a result, Paul feels beholden to no man -- he only strives to "win the approval... of God." This frees him from the tyranny of popularity, that is, being subject to the winds and whims of public approval.
Application: What freedom there is for Paul in having only one master. And what power in having a direct connection with God. So many people come to God through others and never get beyond that. Their faith is a second-hand faith that relies heavily upon those who brought the Gospel to them. But the true point of the Gospel is to bring people to the cross where they can get to know, in the deepest sense, God himself through Jesus Christ. Their connection is direct, their relationship is first-person, and this results in a strong, deep bond, not easily broken. The function of others is to reinforce and encourage this bond, but others do not provide the bond and others cannot destroy it. When I understand this, God himself becomes my mentor. We see this with Paul. And when we have it ourselves, what strength and security we have -- and what opportunities for growth into maturity. Those who are too dependent on others can too easily slip away from God.
Prayer: I want to know YOU, Lord, in the fullness of who you are. You are the only one who has the goods that I must have. Thank you for those who help and support and encourage me as I follow you. But I thank you that my relationship with you does not rely on them. I have an anchor: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, that holds my life fast upon the solid rock no matter what storm may come. Thank you for the direct bond that you have given me and help me to strengthen in all my days and in all my ways.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Title: God's Motivation Revealed / Topic: The Love Of God
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 5; Deuteronomy 6; Psalm 43; Mark 14
Scripture: Deuteronomy 5:29 Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!
Observation: Moses, in his farewell address, recites the law to the people. Some of it sounds harsh, even petty. An example of this would be: "...for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me..." (Deuteronomy 5:9). (Even Oprah has said that these words, "God is a jealous God," caused her to reject some of the Baptist teaching and question the Christianity that she was raised with.) But if we read the whole thing in its context we see the reason that God is jealous for us: he wants us to do well and be blessed. Just as we who are parents are jealous over our children, wanting to keep them away from influences that we see as harmful to them, and doing everything we can to protect them from bad people. Likewise God is jealous for his children. We see the heart of a loving parent in the scripture that I selected, "Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!" (Deuteronomy 5:29). This isn't about God on some sort of selfish, controlling, and possessive rant! No, it's about a loving Father whose heart is toward his children and intensely wants them to have the best lives possible.
Application: God loves us so much. When he tells us to do something, or to avoid something, it is for our own good. We need to remember this because there are many times when we don't understand the reason for the command or instruction. But if we will trust God and his motivation of love; and if we will obey, even in the absence of full comprehension of the reasons, we will experience his blessing.
Bottom line: Trust and obey.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your wonderful, kind and loving nature. Help us to listen and do what you say in every situation.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 5:29 Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!
Observation: Moses, in his farewell address, recites the law to the people. Some of it sounds harsh, even petty. An example of this would be: "...for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me..." (Deuteronomy 5:9). (Even Oprah has said that these words, "God is a jealous God," caused her to reject some of the Baptist teaching and question the Christianity that she was raised with.) But if we read the whole thing in its context we see the reason that God is jealous for us: he wants us to do well and be blessed. Just as we who are parents are jealous over our children, wanting to keep them away from influences that we see as harmful to them, and doing everything we can to protect them from bad people. Likewise God is jealous for his children. We see the heart of a loving parent in the scripture that I selected, "Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!" (Deuteronomy 5:29). This isn't about God on some sort of selfish, controlling, and possessive rant! No, it's about a loving Father whose heart is toward his children and intensely wants them to have the best lives possible.
Application: God loves us so much. When he tells us to do something, or to avoid something, it is for our own good. We need to remember this because there are many times when we don't understand the reason for the command or instruction. But if we will trust God and his motivation of love; and if we will obey, even in the absence of full comprehension of the reasons, we will experience his blessing.
Bottom line: Trust and obey.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your wonderful, kind and loving nature. Help us to listen and do what you say in every situation.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Title: WE MUST BE VIGILANT / Topic: Intentionality
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 3; Deuteronomy 4; Psalm 36; Mark 13
Scripture: Deuteronomy 4, Mark 13 (various verses)
Deuteronomy 4
1 ...the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, is giving you. 2 Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the LORD your God that I give you.
6 Observe them carefully...
9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live.
15 ...watch yourselves very carefully...
23 Be careful not to forget the covenant of the LORD your God that he made with you...
Mark 13
5 Jesus said to them: "Watch out that no one deceives you...
9 "You must be on your guard...
13 ...he who stands firm to the end will be saved.
23 So be on your guard...
Observation: Watch yourselves, be careful, be on your guard, observe them carefully... All of these verses and their surrounding contexts give this message over and over: WE MUST BE VIGILANT.
Application: This is something that we must not to leave to chance. We are to be thoughtful and deliberate and intentional, that is we must plan in advance and carry out the plan faithfully, about these matters. To fail to conduct ourselves with seriousness in these matters is to sentence ourselves to failure. We must exercise great care and thought if we are to finish well the path that we have started.
Prayer: Lord, help us to pay attention to following you closely. Help us not to take our eyes off the ball.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 4, Mark 13 (various verses)
Deuteronomy 4
1 ...the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, is giving you. 2 Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the LORD your God that I give you.
6 Observe them carefully...
9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live.
15 ...watch yourselves very carefully...
23 Be careful not to forget the covenant of the LORD your God that he made with you...
Mark 13
5 Jesus said to them: "Watch out that no one deceives you...
9 "You must be on your guard...
13 ...he who stands firm to the end will be saved.
23 So be on your guard...
Observation: Watch yourselves, be careful, be on your guard, observe them carefully... All of these verses and their surrounding contexts give this message over and over: WE MUST BE VIGILANT.
Application: This is something that we must not to leave to chance. We are to be thoughtful and deliberate and intentional, that is we must plan in advance and carry out the plan faithfully, about these matters. To fail to conduct ourselves with seriousness in these matters is to sentence ourselves to failure. We must exercise great care and thought if we are to finish well the path that we have started.
Prayer: Lord, help us to pay attention to following you closely. Help us not to take our eyes off the ball.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Title: Don't Use Your Head... Ask God! / Topic: Spiritual Guidance
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 1; Deuteronomy 2; Mark 12
Scripture: Deuteronomy 1:22-23
22 Then all of you came to me and said, "Let us send men ahead to spy out the land for us and bring back a report about the route we are to take and the towns we will come to."
23 The idea seemed good to me; so I selected twelve of you, one man from each tribe.
Observation: Moses is speaking to the Israelites, retelling the history of their sojourn in the wilderness. Here he tells the story of when they reached Canaan for the first time. What I noticed is that the people made a suggestion and Moses says, "the idea seemed good to me, so I selected twelve of you..." (Of course we know this turned out to be a terrible idea as it resulted in a negative report by ten of the spies and rebellion among the people.) But did you catch the fact that Moses didn't take the idea to the Lord? He didn't pray about it or ask for wisdom. He just decided to run with it because it "seemed" like a good idea. Yikes!
Application: This speaks of the imperative of seeking God's will, especially for those in spiritual leadership. Just making a decision by thinking it over, or using your common sense can bring truly disastrous results. Now, I'm all for using our God-given intelligence, but our brains are no substitute for God's guidance. As David writes:
Prayer: Lord, I want to walk always in your will and by your wisdom. Help me to remember to seek your will before I make key decisions. Do this and protect those whom I lead from any direction that is not from you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 1:22-23
22 Then all of you came to me and said, "Let us send men ahead to spy out the land for us and bring back a report about the route we are to take and the towns we will come to."
23 The idea seemed good to me; so I selected twelve of you, one man from each tribe.
Observation: Moses is speaking to the Israelites, retelling the history of their sojourn in the wilderness. Here he tells the story of when they reached Canaan for the first time. What I noticed is that the people made a suggestion and Moses says, "the idea seemed good to me, so I selected twelve of you..." (Of course we know this turned out to be a terrible idea as it resulted in a negative report by ten of the spies and rebellion among the people.) But did you catch the fact that Moses didn't take the idea to the Lord? He didn't pray about it or ask for wisdom. He just decided to run with it because it "seemed" like a good idea. Yikes!
Application: This speaks of the imperative of seeking God's will, especially for those in spiritual leadership. Just making a decision by thinking it over, or using your common sense can bring truly disastrous results. Now, I'm all for using our God-given intelligence, but our brains are no substitute for God's guidance. As David writes:
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 (King James Version)Bottom line: Pray and seek wisdom, always stop and seek the Lord's guidance, particularly in critical junctures, and especially if you are in a position of leadership of any kind.
Prayer: Lord, I want to walk always in your will and by your wisdom. Help me to remember to seek your will before I make key decisions. Do this and protect those whom I lead from any direction that is not from you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Title: No Margin For Disobedience / Topic: Leadership
Today’s Reading: Numbers 19; Numbers 20; Psalm 28; Mark 5
Scripture: Numbers 20:7-12
7 The LORD said to Moses, 8 "Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water..."
9 So Moses took the staff from the LORD's presence, just as he commanded him. 10 He and Aaron gathered the assembly together in front of the rock and Moses said to them, "Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?" 11 Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.
12 But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them."
Observation: The Lord told Moses and Aaron explicitly what to do to address the ministry crisis that they were facing. There were three basic steps followed by the response from God which was the solution that they needed. Step one: "take the staff". Step two: "gather the assembly together." Step three: "speak to that rock before their eyes." And the promised result: "it will pour out its water." This is so simple and so straightforward. But for whatever reason, Moses deviated from the instruction. He completed steps one and two just fine, but when it came to step three, instead of speaking to the rock, he spoke to the people in a harsh way and then hit the rock two times with the staff. This is inexplicable to me.
Moses had seen the deaths of Nadab and Abihu who had been killed by the fire from God as a result of offering unauthorized fire before the Lord, i.e. freelancing in their ministry. And Moses had explained to Aaron the reason why. (Numbers 10:3)
Here Moses does his own freelancing by: 1) speaking to the people instead of speaking to the rock, 2) rebuking the people and implying that he and Aaron were the ones who had the ability to and were being coerced to bring forth water from the rock (robbing the credit and the glory that belonged to God), and 3) striking the rock twice with the staff (a kind of dramatic performance that turned this solemn miracle into something more like a magic show).
God's response is twofold. First, in spite of the lack of adherence to his explicit instructions, he does release the flow of water from the rock (enough water to supply a nations of millions!). Second, he gives a sentence of punishment on Moses and Aaron: they will not be allowed to enter into the land of promise. How sad.
Application: The lesson here is simple: if you are in spiritual leadership, stick to the play book that the Lord has given you. He is the Lord, he calls the plays, we carry them out. If we begin to think that we can freelance, doing whatever variations we choose rather than sticking exactly to the instruction of the Lord, we are endangering ourselves, our ministries, and those whom we lead. The Lord gives no margin for disobedience to those who take up the call to serve in Kingdom leadership. Stick to the play book. The alternative is nothing but bad.
Prayer: Lord, help me to have clear hearing and close obedience to you and your word. I want to hear what you say, to know your will and ways, and to follow you closely in my leadership. Help me to always stay submitted to you and to never forget that I work for you and belong to you. All that I am and all that I have are yours. May I ever live to please you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Numbers 20:7-12
7 The LORD said to Moses, 8 "Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water..."
9 So Moses took the staff from the LORD's presence, just as he commanded him. 10 He and Aaron gathered the assembly together in front of the rock and Moses said to them, "Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?" 11 Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.
12 But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them."
Observation: The Lord told Moses and Aaron explicitly what to do to address the ministry crisis that they were facing. There were three basic steps followed by the response from God which was the solution that they needed. Step one: "take the staff". Step two: "gather the assembly together." Step three: "speak to that rock before their eyes." And the promised result: "it will pour out its water." This is so simple and so straightforward. But for whatever reason, Moses deviated from the instruction. He completed steps one and two just fine, but when it came to step three, instead of speaking to the rock, he spoke to the people in a harsh way and then hit the rock two times with the staff. This is inexplicable to me.
Moses had seen the deaths of Nadab and Abihu who had been killed by the fire from God as a result of offering unauthorized fire before the Lord, i.e. freelancing in their ministry. And Moses had explained to Aaron the reason why. (Numbers 10:3)
Here Moses does his own freelancing by: 1) speaking to the people instead of speaking to the rock, 2) rebuking the people and implying that he and Aaron were the ones who had the ability to and were being coerced to bring forth water from the rock (robbing the credit and the glory that belonged to God), and 3) striking the rock twice with the staff (a kind of dramatic performance that turned this solemn miracle into something more like a magic show).
God's response is twofold. First, in spite of the lack of adherence to his explicit instructions, he does release the flow of water from the rock (enough water to supply a nations of millions!). Second, he gives a sentence of punishment on Moses and Aaron: they will not be allowed to enter into the land of promise. How sad.
Application: The lesson here is simple: if you are in spiritual leadership, stick to the play book that the Lord has given you. He is the Lord, he calls the plays, we carry them out. If we begin to think that we can freelance, doing whatever variations we choose rather than sticking exactly to the instruction of the Lord, we are endangering ourselves, our ministries, and those whom we lead. The Lord gives no margin for disobedience to those who take up the call to serve in Kingdom leadership. Stick to the play book. The alternative is nothing but bad.
Prayer: Lord, help me to have clear hearing and close obedience to you and your word. I want to hear what you say, to know your will and ways, and to follow you closely in my leadership. Help me to always stay submitted to you and to never forget that I work for you and belong to you. All that I am and all that I have are yours. May I ever live to please you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Title: The Nay Sayers / Topic: Critical People
Today’s Reading: Numbers 12; Numbers 13; Psalm 90; Mark 2
Scripture: Mark 2:7, 16, 18, 24
7 "Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?"
16 ..."Why does he eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?"
18 ..."How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?"
24 ..."Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?"
Observation: Apparently, there are many people following Jesus whose entire motivation is to find fault with whatever He does. Their picky criticisms stick out throughout the chapter. These complainers sound like ill-mannered brats.
Application: I guess that nay sayers have been around forever and will be around forever. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, but so are the Pharisees!
Prayer: Lord help me to not pay attention to the nay sayers but to do what is right -- what You are calling me to do. And Lord, if You could either shut them up or keep them away from me, I would really appreciate it!
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Mark 2:7, 16, 18, 24
7 "Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?"
16 ..."Why does he eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?"
18 ..."How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?"
24 ..."Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?"
Observation: Apparently, there are many people following Jesus whose entire motivation is to find fault with whatever He does. Their picky criticisms stick out throughout the chapter. These complainers sound like ill-mannered brats.
Application: I guess that nay sayers have been around forever and will be around forever. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, but so are the Pharisees!
Prayer: Lord help me to not pay attention to the nay sayers but to do what is right -- what You are calling me to do. And Lord, if You could either shut them up or keep them away from me, I would really appreciate it!
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Title: Serious Purification / Topic: Ministry Requirements
Today’s Reading: Numbers 8; Numbers 9; Acts 28
Scripture: Numbers 8:5-7
5 The LORD said to Moses: 6 "Take the Levites from among the other Israelites and make them ceremonially clean. 7 To purify them, do this: Sprinkle the water of cleansing on them; then have them shave their whole bodies and wash their clothes, and so purify themselves.
Observation: The Levites were given the responsibility of assisting the priests in the worship of God. There were 22,000 Levites (Numbers 3:39). Here, they are commissioned for their ministry. There are three parts of the purification ritual given in verse 7. First, "sprinkle the water of cleansing on them." Second, "have them shave their whole bodies." And third, "wash their clothes." It is this second part that caught my attention: "shave their whole bodies." This is a very demanding requirement. To ask 22,000 males to shave, not just their face or head, but their entire bodies is downright radical. I think of what it would take for me to do this and it is revolting! I certainly wouldn't want to do it. For one thing, I couldn't do it without help, because there are parts I can't even reach, much less shave. And another thing is that they didn't have any Remington electric or Gillette Fusion razors or anything like that. I'm not sure exactly what kind of blades they did use for shaving but I would bet that knicks and cuts were unavoidable and this makes a whole-body shave a pretty hazardous undertaking. The whole thing seems extreme and a bit bizarre.
Application: My point is that to serve the Lord involves our whole being and being surrendered to what God says to do, no matter how radical or even painful it might be. This also tells us that God takes personal purification very seriously and wants those who serve him to take it seriously. This is no casual undertaking. And it starts with surrendered hearts and covers every part of our lives.
Prayer: Lord, help us to be serious about serving you and dedicated to doing whatever it takes to be purified for your purposes in our lives. Keep us from any casual or relaxed approach to entering the service of Almighty God.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Numbers 8:5-7
5 The LORD said to Moses: 6 "Take the Levites from among the other Israelites and make them ceremonially clean. 7 To purify them, do this: Sprinkle the water of cleansing on them; then have them shave their whole bodies and wash their clothes, and so purify themselves.
Observation: The Levites were given the responsibility of assisting the priests in the worship of God. There were 22,000 Levites (Numbers 3:39). Here, they are commissioned for their ministry. There are three parts of the purification ritual given in verse 7. First, "sprinkle the water of cleansing on them." Second, "have them shave their whole bodies." And third, "wash their clothes." It is this second part that caught my attention: "shave their whole bodies." This is a very demanding requirement. To ask 22,000 males to shave, not just their face or head, but their entire bodies is downright radical. I think of what it would take for me to do this and it is revolting! I certainly wouldn't want to do it. For one thing, I couldn't do it without help, because there are parts I can't even reach, much less shave. And another thing is that they didn't have any Remington electric or Gillette Fusion razors or anything like that. I'm not sure exactly what kind of blades they did use for shaving but I would bet that knicks and cuts were unavoidable and this makes a whole-body shave a pretty hazardous undertaking. The whole thing seems extreme and a bit bizarre.
Application: My point is that to serve the Lord involves our whole being and being surrendered to what God says to do, no matter how radical or even painful it might be. This also tells us that God takes personal purification very seriously and wants those who serve him to take it seriously. This is no casual undertaking. And it starts with surrendered hearts and covers every part of our lives.
Prayer: Lord, help us to be serious about serving you and dedicated to doing whatever it takes to be purified for your purposes in our lives. Keep us from any casual or relaxed approach to entering the service of Almighty God.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Title: Deadly Deception / Topic: False Evidence
Today’s Reading: Numbers 7; Psalm 23; Acts 27
Author's Note: GREAT READING TODAY!
Scripture: Acts 27:13-14
13 When a gentle south wind began to blow, they thought they had obtained what they wanted; so they weighed anchor and sailed along the shore of Crete. 14 Before very long, a wind of hurricane force, called the "northeaster," swept down from the island...
Observation: Paul, under arrest, is being transported to Rome on a ship. Because the Lord spoke to Paul of impending danger, he warned them that they should not leave port. But "the majority decided" (vs. 12) to sail on, listening to the ship's pilot and the owner of the ship instead of Paul. The crew watched for favorable sailing conditions and verse 13 describes what they observed: "...a gentle south wind..." This lead them to believe that it was safe to sail, which they did. However, verse 14 tells us "before very long" something quite different showed up: "a wind of hurricane force, called the 'northeaster,' swept down from the island." From this moment on, their lives are in peril as the ship becomes engulfed in a monstrous storm.
Application: There are so many times when the circumstances, as observed by men, can direct in a certain way. This way seems reasonable and even wise based on the available information and even "experts" who are most knowledgeable. Observe who advised them to sail: the pilot and owner of the ship. And they swayed the majority. Even the weather seemed to affirm their opinion. And who was it that told them not to sail? It was a prisoner -- a guy in chains who had been a religious leader and was a former tentmaker. What could he possibly have to offer on the subject of ships and sailing? Maybe this prisoner was advising not to sail to delay his having to face justice, or perhaps to give himself an opportunity to escape. This is not a person that should be listened to. So everything lined up with choice that ended up being a total disaster.
Bottom line: This points out the need for spiritual discernment and knowledge from God. It is so easy to be deceived by false evidence and experts that seem right but ends up leading to catastrophe. We must hone our spiritual senses to hear from God. He can see what we never could, even with all our human abilities, expertise, and rationality. Only he can keep us from operating in deadly deception.
Prayer: Lord, help us to be attuned to your thoughts and ways. Give us the ability to look beyond our circumstances and our own perceptions and interpretive abilities to discern your best, especially when it runs counter to the winds of experts and the majority. May we follow you and abide in safety.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Author's Note: GREAT READING TODAY!
Scripture: Acts 27:13-14
13 When a gentle south wind began to blow, they thought they had obtained what they wanted; so they weighed anchor and sailed along the shore of Crete. 14 Before very long, a wind of hurricane force, called the "northeaster," swept down from the island...
Observation: Paul, under arrest, is being transported to Rome on a ship. Because the Lord spoke to Paul of impending danger, he warned them that they should not leave port. But "the majority decided" (vs. 12) to sail on, listening to the ship's pilot and the owner of the ship instead of Paul. The crew watched for favorable sailing conditions and verse 13 describes what they observed: "...a gentle south wind..." This lead them to believe that it was safe to sail, which they did. However, verse 14 tells us "before very long" something quite different showed up: "a wind of hurricane force, called the 'northeaster,' swept down from the island." From this moment on, their lives are in peril as the ship becomes engulfed in a monstrous storm.
Application: There are so many times when the circumstances, as observed by men, can direct in a certain way. This way seems reasonable and even wise based on the available information and even "experts" who are most knowledgeable. Observe who advised them to sail: the pilot and owner of the ship. And they swayed the majority. Even the weather seemed to affirm their opinion. And who was it that told them not to sail? It was a prisoner -- a guy in chains who had been a religious leader and was a former tentmaker. What could he possibly have to offer on the subject of ships and sailing? Maybe this prisoner was advising not to sail to delay his having to face justice, or perhaps to give himself an opportunity to escape. This is not a person that should be listened to. So everything lined up with choice that ended up being a total disaster.
Bottom line: This points out the need for spiritual discernment and knowledge from God. It is so easy to be deceived by false evidence and experts that seem right but ends up leading to catastrophe. We must hone our spiritual senses to hear from God. He can see what we never could, even with all our human abilities, expertise, and rationality. Only he can keep us from operating in deadly deception.
Prayer: Lord, help us to be attuned to your thoughts and ways. Give us the ability to look beyond our circumstances and our own perceptions and interpretive abilities to discern your best, especially when it runs counter to the winds of experts and the majority. May we follow you and abide in safety.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Title: The Message Of Hope / Topic: Our Call
Today’s Reading: Numbers 5; Numbers 6; Psalm 22; Acts 26
Scripture: Acts 26:17-18
17 "'I am sending you to them 18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'"
Observation: Paul, giving his defense before King Agrippa, Bernice, and Festus, describes the call of Christ upon his life. These are the words that Jesus spoke to Paul in those first moments of his encounter with Paul. I notice a progression in these verses. First is the sending. God chooses people and sends them with his message and his power. Without those who are sent, who would bring the message? Next we see that there is the need to "open their eyes". This speaks of the removal of the blindness that prevents people from seeing God and if they cannot see, they cannot believe. Third we see the turning. This is the concept of repentance -- positive change of direction. They turn from darkness to light. So not only are these people blind, but they are also in darkness, which would render them helpless even if they were not blind. So it is a kind of double whammy of being cursed, completely disabled from any chance of finding our way without God's intervention. Also, I find it interesting to note that Paul himself was struck with blindness and had to have someone come and pray for him to have his sight restored. They also turn from the power of Satan to God. This is a freeing from destructive forces to constructive forces -- from the clutches of evil and death into the grip of goodness and life. In this turning we see the first actual direct encounter with God and his power. What a blessing to come into contact with God and his loving kindness after being set free from the deadly and destructive entrapments of sin and Satan. The upshot of all this is receiving of the forgiveness from our sins and being adopted into the family of God, being given a place along with all the others who have believed in him and received his goodness and his mercy.
Application: What a wonderful call this is. The exciting thing to me is that this call is not just for Paul. It is for every believer. We are privileged to be a part of those who proclaim in Jesus the goodness and mercy of God to the world.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for this superb and wonderful and amazing call that you have placed on our lives. To have the honor of sharing your goodness with the world around us who is in such desperate need of hope and light is a true gift. I pray that we will take this gift and share it with joy and effectiveness and that many will come to know your goodness and your salvation through our lives. May we shine with your brightness as we proclaim your light to the world.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 26:17-18
17 "'I am sending you to them 18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'"
Observation: Paul, giving his defense before King Agrippa, Bernice, and Festus, describes the call of Christ upon his life. These are the words that Jesus spoke to Paul in those first moments of his encounter with Paul. I notice a progression in these verses. First is the sending. God chooses people and sends them with his message and his power. Without those who are sent, who would bring the message? Next we see that there is the need to "open their eyes". This speaks of the removal of the blindness that prevents people from seeing God and if they cannot see, they cannot believe. Third we see the turning. This is the concept of repentance -- positive change of direction. They turn from darkness to light. So not only are these people blind, but they are also in darkness, which would render them helpless even if they were not blind. So it is a kind of double whammy of being cursed, completely disabled from any chance of finding our way without God's intervention. Also, I find it interesting to note that Paul himself was struck with blindness and had to have someone come and pray for him to have his sight restored. They also turn from the power of Satan to God. This is a freeing from destructive forces to constructive forces -- from the clutches of evil and death into the grip of goodness and life. In this turning we see the first actual direct encounter with God and his power. What a blessing to come into contact with God and his loving kindness after being set free from the deadly and destructive entrapments of sin and Satan. The upshot of all this is receiving of the forgiveness from our sins and being adopted into the family of God, being given a place along with all the others who have believed in him and received his goodness and his mercy.
Application: What a wonderful call this is. The exciting thing to me is that this call is not just for Paul. It is for every believer. We are privileged to be a part of those who proclaim in Jesus the goodness and mercy of God to the world.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for this superb and wonderful and amazing call that you have placed on our lives. To have the honor of sharing your goodness with the world around us who is in such desperate need of hope and light is a true gift. I pray that we will take this gift and share it with joy and effectiveness and that many will come to know your goodness and your salvation through our lives. May we shine with your brightness as we proclaim your light to the world.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Title: The Right Questions / Topic: Following Christ
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 25; Psalm 25; Psalm 26; Acts 22
Scripture: Acts 22:8-10
8 "'Who are you, Lord?' I asked.
"'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting,' he replied. 9 My companions saw the light, but they did not understand the voice of him who was speaking to me.
10 "'What shall I do, Lord?' I asked.
Observation: Paul is unmistakingly and strikingly (literally) confronted by God. His questions demonstrate wisdom in the midst of his crisis. First, "Who are you, Lord?" Paul doesn't know who has stopped him in his tracks, but he does know one thing, it's "Lord." And once he receives the answer that this is Jesus, he asks the next logical question: "What shall I do, Lord?" If the "Lord" knocks me on my kiester, then I'd better find out what he want me to do next. There is no other response that makes sense.
Application: But in spite of this, there are many people who don't ask this second question. Having the knowledge that Jesus is Lord, they don't ask him what he wants them to do.
Bottom line: I want to be sure that this is a question that I keep asking the Lord. "What shall I do, Lord?" I never want to operate without seeking his personal guidance and direction for my life on a moment by moment basis. I only want to do what my Savior leads me to do.
Prayer: Lord help me to love thee more dearly, hear thee more clearly, and follow thee more nearly day by day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 22:8-10
8 "'Who are you, Lord?' I asked.
"'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting,' he replied. 9 My companions saw the light, but they did not understand the voice of him who was speaking to me.
10 "'What shall I do, Lord?' I asked.
Observation: Paul is unmistakingly and strikingly (literally) confronted by God. His questions demonstrate wisdom in the midst of his crisis. First, "Who are you, Lord?" Paul doesn't know who has stopped him in his tracks, but he does know one thing, it's "Lord." And once he receives the answer that this is Jesus, he asks the next logical question: "What shall I do, Lord?" If the "Lord" knocks me on my kiester, then I'd better find out what he want me to do next. There is no other response that makes sense.
Application: But in spite of this, there are many people who don't ask this second question. Having the knowledge that Jesus is Lord, they don't ask him what he wants them to do.
Bottom line: I want to be sure that this is a question that I keep asking the Lord. "What shall I do, Lord?" I never want to operate without seeking his personal guidance and direction for my life on a moment by moment basis. I only want to do what my Savior leads me to do.
Prayer: Lord help me to love thee more dearly, hear thee more clearly, and follow thee more nearly day by day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Title: Called To Belong / Topic: Holiness
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 20; Leviticus 21; Leviticus 22; Acts 20
Scripture: Leviticus 20:26 You are to be holy to me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own.
Observation: In all the requirements that God gives to the nation of Israel, he comes again and again to the statement which is the first part above: "Be holy because I am holy." This sentiment is repeated many times throughout these chapters. But the next phrase is what caught my eye. The Lord says that the Israelites have been set apart as the Lord's unique possession, they are his own.
Application: There is a preciousness to this that touches me. The Lord is appealing to his people saying, "I want you to me like me, holy. I have picked you, and only you, to belong to me." I hear his voice of love and his desire to share the goodness of who he is with his own special people in an exclusive and intimate relationship. "Holy" means "set apart" and the Lord is saying that he has picked his people to be "set apart" for a unique and privileged relationship -- a relationship with special access and blessings and benefits. But to participate in this exclusive relationship, his people have to set themselves apart from everyone else. God is calling his people to limit themselves in various areas of behavior -- to voluntarily separate themselves from the general population -- in order to maintain themselves as belonging to God.
Bottom line: God's call to his people to be holy is for the purpose of intimacy. God want people with whom he can be close. And for that to happen, those people must embrace him and his nature -- shunning the corrupting practices of the fallen culture in which they live -- and identify with God as the one they want to be like. They are holy -- set apart to God -- in the same way that God is holy -- setting himself apart for his own people. There is no higher calling.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you desire a people to call your own with whom you desire to share your nature. Lord, help me to follow you closely and to be an influencer of all who call on your name.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Leviticus 20:26 You are to be holy to me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own.
Observation: In all the requirements that God gives to the nation of Israel, he comes again and again to the statement which is the first part above: "Be holy because I am holy." This sentiment is repeated many times throughout these chapters. But the next phrase is what caught my eye. The Lord says that the Israelites have been set apart as the Lord's unique possession, they are his own.
Application: There is a preciousness to this that touches me. The Lord is appealing to his people saying, "I want you to me like me, holy. I have picked you, and only you, to belong to me." I hear his voice of love and his desire to share the goodness of who he is with his own special people in an exclusive and intimate relationship. "Holy" means "set apart" and the Lord is saying that he has picked his people to be "set apart" for a unique and privileged relationship -- a relationship with special access and blessings and benefits. But to participate in this exclusive relationship, his people have to set themselves apart from everyone else. God is calling his people to limit themselves in various areas of behavior -- to voluntarily separate themselves from the general population -- in order to maintain themselves as belonging to God.
Bottom line: God's call to his people to be holy is for the purpose of intimacy. God want people with whom he can be close. And for that to happen, those people must embrace him and his nature -- shunning the corrupting practices of the fallen culture in which they live -- and identify with God as the one they want to be like. They are holy -- set apart to God -- in the same way that God is holy -- setting himself apart for his own people. There is no higher calling.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you desire a people to call your own with whom you desire to share your nature. Lord, help me to follow you closely and to be an influencer of all who call on your name.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Title: "God" Needs Protection / Topic: False Gods
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 18; Leviticus 19; Psalm 13; Acts 19
Scripture: Acts 19:26-27
26 And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all. 27 There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited, and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty."
Observation: These are the words of Demetrius, a businessman who has been well-to-do by trading on silver statues of the goddess Artemis. And he sees the Christians as a threat to his pocketbook. Here he correctly sums up Paul's position: "man-made gods are no gods at all." Of course, Demetrius disagrees, ostensibly on the basis of faith, but certainly on economic grounds. His financial future depends on the goddess Artemis. But what gets me is the last phrase. He states the great danger that Artemis "will be robbed of her divine majesty."
Application: What kind of god can be robbed of his or her divine majesty? I would suggest that if some group's teaching can rob any god of divine majesty, that "god" wasn't really divine to begin with. If a god is truly God, then there is a certain power and security in that God by virtue of the true divinity of that God. If followers of any religion are continually feeling the need to stand up for their "god" because of what they perceive as attacks against their god, then they should reevaluate their beliefs. In the Bible we see attacks against the church because of the perceived threat against either the Jewish faith or the Roman pagan beliefs. In our world today, we see the Islamists' violent protests against statements or even cartoons that they see as damaging to their prophet. All of these instances fall into this same category. If your god is truly "God" and your religion is true, then your God will prevail and you don't have to fight or kill anybody. But if you feel that you must fight for your god, then you are saying that your god is too weak to protect himself and needs you to fight for him.
I am glad I serve a God that can take care of himself. He teaches us, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay," say the Lord Almighty.
Prayer: Thank you Lord for being the true, almighty God. I know that I cannot protect you, but that you can and surely do protect me. May I live in such a way that many people will learn of your ways through my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 19:26-27
26 And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all. 27 There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited, and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty."
Observation: These are the words of Demetrius, a businessman who has been well-to-do by trading on silver statues of the goddess Artemis. And he sees the Christians as a threat to his pocketbook. Here he correctly sums up Paul's position: "man-made gods are no gods at all." Of course, Demetrius disagrees, ostensibly on the basis of faith, but certainly on economic grounds. His financial future depends on the goddess Artemis. But what gets me is the last phrase. He states the great danger that Artemis "will be robbed of her divine majesty."
Application: What kind of god can be robbed of his or her divine majesty? I would suggest that if some group's teaching can rob any god of divine majesty, that "god" wasn't really divine to begin with. If a god is truly God, then there is a certain power and security in that God by virtue of the true divinity of that God. If followers of any religion are continually feeling the need to stand up for their "god" because of what they perceive as attacks against their god, then they should reevaluate their beliefs. In the Bible we see attacks against the church because of the perceived threat against either the Jewish faith or the Roman pagan beliefs. In our world today, we see the Islamists' violent protests against statements or even cartoons that they see as damaging to their prophet. All of these instances fall into this same category. If your god is truly "God" and your religion is true, then your God will prevail and you don't have to fight or kill anybody. But if you feel that you must fight for your god, then you are saying that your god is too weak to protect himself and needs you to fight for him.
I am glad I serve a God that can take care of himself. He teaches us, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay," say the Lord Almighty.
Prayer: Thank you Lord for being the true, almighty God. I know that I cannot protect you, but that you can and surely do protect me. May I live in such a way that many people will learn of your ways through my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Title: The Fear Of The Lord / Topic: Awe And Reverence
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 15; Leviticus 16; Leviticus 17; Acts 18
Scripture: Leviticus 16:2 The LORD said to Moses: "Tell your brother Aaron not to come whenever he chooses into the Most Holy Place behind the curtain in front of the atonement cover on the ark, or else he will die...
Observation: God gives a warning to Aaron with this message: "You are not free to come into the Most Holy Place on your own timetable. You must only come when I tell you to come. If you violate this, you will die."
Application: This runs so contrary to the modern image of God. We think of God just waiting upon us eagerly for the moment we call and then, like a faithful dog, he will come running. But God says, "No. I will tell you when you can see me." Now of course this is the Old Covenant and God related to his people much differently then than now, but I want to suggest that we have created far too casual a concept of the God-man relationship. We have lost much of the necessary awe and the idea of "the fear of the Lord" is virtually gone from the Christian psyche. I think we need to get some of this back. In the words of Peter, "live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear." (1 Peter 1:17)
Prayer: Lord, help us to walk in your love without presumption. May we honor you in all we do and say and think and hold you in the highest awe and respect.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Leviticus 16:2 The LORD said to Moses: "Tell your brother Aaron not to come whenever he chooses into the Most Holy Place behind the curtain in front of the atonement cover on the ark, or else he will die...
Observation: God gives a warning to Aaron with this message: "You are not free to come into the Most Holy Place on your own timetable. You must only come when I tell you to come. If you violate this, you will die."
Application: This runs so contrary to the modern image of God. We think of God just waiting upon us eagerly for the moment we call and then, like a faithful dog, he will come running. But God says, "No. I will tell you when you can see me." Now of course this is the Old Covenant and God related to his people much differently then than now, but I want to suggest that we have created far too casual a concept of the God-man relationship. We have lost much of the necessary awe and the idea of "the fear of the Lord" is virtually gone from the Christian psyche. I think we need to get some of this back. In the words of Peter, "live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear." (1 Peter 1:17)
Prayer: Lord, help us to walk in your love without presumption. May we honor you in all we do and say and think and hold you in the highest awe and respect.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Title: The Rent-A-Mob / Topic: Trust
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 13; Leviticus 14; Acts 17
Scripture: Acts 17:5 But the Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city...
Observation: Here we have some people from the religious establishment who get jealous because of the success that the followers of Christ are experiencing. And, or course, they resort to violence. If these religious people think that they are truly of God, why don't they just pray or something less sinful. I guess they didn't think of that.
Application: It never ceases to amaze me that there is always a rent-a-mob available for the Christ haters. It was true when they were hating Jesus himself and it has been true ever since. If you are a follower of Christ, don't be surprised if someday there is a rent-a-mob after you. But don't worry, trust Jesus. He can handle the mob and he will take care of you.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that you take care of your own. And I know that even when the good people suffer and the bad people prevail, the true result is yet to be known for you will make all things right one day. We count on your eternally-powerful justice. We count on you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 17:5 But the Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city...
Observation: Here we have some people from the religious establishment who get jealous because of the success that the followers of Christ are experiencing. And, or course, they resort to violence. If these religious people think that they are truly of God, why don't they just pray or something less sinful. I guess they didn't think of that.
Application: It never ceases to amaze me that there is always a rent-a-mob available for the Christ haters. It was true when they were hating Jesus himself and it has been true ever since. If you are a follower of Christ, don't be surprised if someday there is a rent-a-mob after you. But don't worry, trust Jesus. He can handle the mob and he will take care of you.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that you take care of your own. And I know that even when the good people suffer and the bad people prevail, the true result is yet to be known for you will make all things right one day. We count on your eternally-powerful justice. We count on you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Title: From Victory To Tragedy / Topic: Presumption
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 10; Leviticus 11; Leviticus 12; Acts 16
Scripture: Leviticus 10:1-3
1 Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to his command. 2 So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD. 3 Moses then said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD spoke of when he said:
" 'Among those who approach me
I will show myself holy;
in the sight of all the people
I will be honored.' "
Aaron remained silent.
Observation: This is how the first day of Aaron's ministry ended: with the death of his two eldest sons consumed by fire "from the presence of the Lord." Just moments before this catastrophe, the Lord had sent down fire and consumed the offering from the altar, which had this result: "When all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown." (Lev. 10:24) It is at this moment that Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, made a fateful decision to do some "freestyle or improvisational" worship. They grabbed their censers (incense containers) and threw some incense in and, lighting it, offered this before the Lord. Whether they were just caught up in the moment and wanting to worship God, or whether they were just grandstanding, we don't know. But what is clear is that this act was contrary to what they had been instructed to do and because of it, they died.
Application: I think of Aaron going in mere moments from the pinnacle of ecstasy as God shows up in power to validate his ministry to the pit of agony at God shows up in power to kill his sons for their departure from the protocol. This is a truly devastating emotional hit! What is the lesson of this sobering incident? It is that there is no place for presumption on the part of those who represent God. We are not freelancers, exercising our own tastes. We are ambassadors conveying the directives of the King.
Prayer: Lord, help us to honor you and never to approach ministry with casual or carefree attitudes. Remind us, Lord, that while we can be joyful and jubilant, we must remain reverent and respectful for you, our God, are an awesome God.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Leviticus 10:1-3
1 Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to his command. 2 So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD. 3 Moses then said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD spoke of when he said:
" 'Among those who approach me
I will show myself holy;
in the sight of all the people
I will be honored.' "
Aaron remained silent.
Observation: This is how the first day of Aaron's ministry ended: with the death of his two eldest sons consumed by fire "from the presence of the Lord." Just moments before this catastrophe, the Lord had sent down fire and consumed the offering from the altar, which had this result: "When all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown." (Lev. 10:24) It is at this moment that Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, made a fateful decision to do some "freestyle or improvisational" worship. They grabbed their censers (incense containers) and threw some incense in and, lighting it, offered this before the Lord. Whether they were just caught up in the moment and wanting to worship God, or whether they were just grandstanding, we don't know. But what is clear is that this act was contrary to what they had been instructed to do and because of it, they died.
Application: I think of Aaron going in mere moments from the pinnacle of ecstasy as God shows up in power to validate his ministry to the pit of agony at God shows up in power to kill his sons for their departure from the protocol. This is a truly devastating emotional hit! What is the lesson of this sobering incident? It is that there is no place for presumption on the part of those who represent God. We are not freelancers, exercising our own tastes. We are ambassadors conveying the directives of the King.
Prayer: Lord, help us to honor you and never to approach ministry with casual or carefree attitudes. Remind us, Lord, that while we can be joyful and jubilant, we must remain reverent and respectful for you, our God, are an awesome God.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, February 08, 2008
Title: God Showed Up / Topic: Confirmation
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 7; Leviticus 8; Leviticus 9; Acts 15
Scripture: Leviticus 9:22-24
22 Then Aaron lifted his hands toward the people and blessed them. And having sacrificed the sin offering, the burnt offering and the fellowship offering, he stepped down.
23 Moses and Aaron then went into the Tent of Meeting. When they came out, they blessed the people; and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. 24 Fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. And when all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown.
Observation: This is the first day upon which Aaron and his sons have performed the sacrifices as Moses instructed them. As I read the account of all the details of the sacrificing, I wondered how Aaron and his sons felt about all of this -- the strange outfits, the odd and bloody ritual -- what were they thinking? And the people, how did this all play out to the rank and file of Israel. Then, at the end, "the glory of the Lord" shows up! "And when all the people say it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown."
Application: As a pastor, this is what I always hope for: God shows up and validates my ministry. Sometimes even when you do your best to bring the word that God has given you, it can leave you feeling a little flat and wondering, did I miss it today? But when God shows up with a strong sense of his presence, that makes all the difference! I am so sure that Moses and Aaron and the people were grateful for this tangible demonstration of God's approval and blessing. The people shouted for joy! I always want to function in such a way that the tangible sense of God's blessing is a regular, if not constant, part of the experience. I know that we must walk by faith, not by sight, but I also know that God delights to bless his people and to confirm his word to them.
Prayer: Lord, I so desire to know your glory in my daily life and especially in my ministry. May I so walk as to give you cause to confirm your work through me with signs following, as you will.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Leviticus 9:22-24
22 Then Aaron lifted his hands toward the people and blessed them. And having sacrificed the sin offering, the burnt offering and the fellowship offering, he stepped down.
23 Moses and Aaron then went into the Tent of Meeting. When they came out, they blessed the people; and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. 24 Fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. And when all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown.
Observation: This is the first day upon which Aaron and his sons have performed the sacrifices as Moses instructed them. As I read the account of all the details of the sacrificing, I wondered how Aaron and his sons felt about all of this -- the strange outfits, the odd and bloody ritual -- what were they thinking? And the people, how did this all play out to the rank and file of Israel. Then, at the end, "the glory of the Lord" shows up! "And when all the people say it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown."
Application: As a pastor, this is what I always hope for: God shows up and validates my ministry. Sometimes even when you do your best to bring the word that God has given you, it can leave you feeling a little flat and wondering, did I miss it today? But when God shows up with a strong sense of his presence, that makes all the difference! I am so sure that Moses and Aaron and the people were grateful for this tangible demonstration of God's approval and blessing. The people shouted for joy! I always want to function in such a way that the tangible sense of God's blessing is a regular, if not constant, part of the experience. I know that we must walk by faith, not by sight, but I also know that God delights to bless his people and to confirm his word to them.
Prayer: Lord, I so desire to know your glory in my daily life and especially in my ministry. May I so walk as to give you cause to confirm your work through me with signs following, as you will.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Title: What A Mess! / Topic: Sin
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 4; Leviticus 5; Leviticus 6; Acts 14
Scripture: Leviticus 4:27-31
27 " 'If a member of the community sins unintentionally and does what is forbidden in any of the LORD's commands, he is guilty. 28 When he is made aware of the sin he committed, he must bring as his offering for the sin he committed a female goat without defect. 29 He is to lay his hand on the head of the sin offering and slaughter it at the place of the burnt offering. 30 Then the priest is to take some of the blood with his finger and put it on the horns of the altar of burnt offering and pour out the rest of the blood at the base of the altar. 31 He shall remove all the fat, just as the fat is removed from the fellowship offering, and the priest shall burn it on the altar as an aroma pleasing to the LORD. In this way the priest will make atonement for him, and he will be forgiven.
Observation: The regulations regarding sin offerings are given in this chapter. As I was reading, I thought of the mess and the expense of this. Think about it. If I sin, I must take a female goat without defect. I am to lay my hand on its head and slaughter it. It's a bloody mess -- quite revolting! And the cost of this goat that is sacrificed would be a hit on the finances of the family.
Application: Thank God that this system is not in effect today. "If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9) The downside of this is that it can tend to cause us to minimize sin -- to think little or nothing of the impact that it has. The old system brought home the seriousness of sin in very real ways.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that Jesus took my sin upon himself and died for me. I want to walk in your grace and forgiveness and in your empowerment to live a righteous life. May I take sin very seriously and may I stay far away from sin in my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Leviticus 4:27-31
27 " 'If a member of the community sins unintentionally and does what is forbidden in any of the LORD's commands, he is guilty. 28 When he is made aware of the sin he committed, he must bring as his offering for the sin he committed a female goat without defect. 29 He is to lay his hand on the head of the sin offering and slaughter it at the place of the burnt offering. 30 Then the priest is to take some of the blood with his finger and put it on the horns of the altar of burnt offering and pour out the rest of the blood at the base of the altar. 31 He shall remove all the fat, just as the fat is removed from the fellowship offering, and the priest shall burn it on the altar as an aroma pleasing to the LORD. In this way the priest will make atonement for him, and he will be forgiven.
Observation: The regulations regarding sin offerings are given in this chapter. As I was reading, I thought of the mess and the expense of this. Think about it. If I sin, I must take a female goat without defect. I am to lay my hand on its head and slaughter it. It's a bloody mess -- quite revolting! And the cost of this goat that is sacrificed would be a hit on the finances of the family.
Application: Thank God that this system is not in effect today. "If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9) The downside of this is that it can tend to cause us to minimize sin -- to think little or nothing of the impact that it has. The old system brought home the seriousness of sin in very real ways.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that Jesus took my sin upon himself and died for me. I want to walk in your grace and forgiveness and in your empowerment to live a righteous life. May I take sin very seriously and may I stay far away from sin in my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Title: Even God Can't Please Everybody / Topic: Doing What's Right
Today’s Reading: Leviticus 1; Leviticus 2; Leviticus 3; Acts 13
Scripture: Acts 13:48-50
48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.
49 The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region.
Observation: Paul and Barnabas had been preaching in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch but some of the Jews very jealous of their success and spoke against them abusively. At that point, Paul and Barnabas state their intention to leave the synagogue and go out to preach to the Gentiles. The Gentiles were happy to hear that and they responded. And "all who were appointed for eternal life believed." And yet there was open opposition to Paul and Barnabas and they were forced to leave.
Application: I see Paul and Barnabas doing everything within their power to respect the Jews and only turn to the Gentiles after the Jews turn them away. But with the success that they had with the Gentiles, the Jews didn't like it at all and "stirred up persecution" against them. What I get out of this is that you can do everything right and still have people mad at you. You can dot every i and cross every t and still have people who will turn on you and persecute you. If even Paul and Barnabas couldn't please everyone, I should not be surprised when people don't like me or what I am doing in Jesus name.
Prayer: Lord, help me to concentrate on you -- pleasing and following you. And help me not to worry about what others might say. I want to follow you no matter what the opposition. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 13:48-50
48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.
49 The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region.
Observation: Paul and Barnabas had been preaching in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch but some of the Jews very jealous of their success and spoke against them abusively. At that point, Paul and Barnabas state their intention to leave the synagogue and go out to preach to the Gentiles. The Gentiles were happy to hear that and they responded. And "all who were appointed for eternal life believed." And yet there was open opposition to Paul and Barnabas and they were forced to leave.
Application: I see Paul and Barnabas doing everything within their power to respect the Jews and only turn to the Gentiles after the Jews turn them away. But with the success that they had with the Gentiles, the Jews didn't like it at all and "stirred up persecution" against them. What I get out of this is that you can do everything right and still have people mad at you. You can dot every i and cross every t and still have people who will turn on you and persecute you. If even Paul and Barnabas couldn't please everyone, I should not be surprised when people don't like me or what I am doing in Jesus name.
Prayer: Lord, help me to concentrate on you -- pleasing and following you. And help me not to worry about what others might say. I want to follow you no matter what the opposition. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Title: The Faithless Prayer / Topic: God's Goodness
Today’s Reading: Exodus 39; Exodus 40; Psalm 15; Acts 12
Scripture: Acts 12:5, 7, 9, 12-16
5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him... 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists... 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 12 ...he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!" 15 "You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel." 16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.
Observation: The church was praying for Peter, but when he was set free by the angel, they didn't believe it, in fact they were totally shocked that Peter was there. This clearly shows that though they were praying, they did not have faith that God would actually save Peter. Their's was a faithless prayer, but God answered it anyway.
Application: I have heard Christians give formulas for getting God to answer prayer. Everything from getting two people to agree, to laying on of hands; saying certain phrases like, "in the name of Jesus," and even reminding God that what is being prayed for is assured in the Bible. The truth is, approaching prayer that way reduces those things to gimmicks. But here we see an answered prayer where even those who prayed it did not expect it to be answered. Wow! What this says to me is that God is faithful to answer any prayer that will bring about his perfect will, and, of course, we don't really know just what that might be at any given moment. So just pray and ask God. He might just give you an answer that you don't expect.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord that you are good and that you take good care of us. Help us to continue to pray, and leave the rest up to you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 12:5, 7, 9, 12-16
5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him... 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists... 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 12 ...he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!" 15 "You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel." 16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.
Observation: The church was praying for Peter, but when he was set free by the angel, they didn't believe it, in fact they were totally shocked that Peter was there. This clearly shows that though they were praying, they did not have faith that God would actually save Peter. Their's was a faithless prayer, but God answered it anyway.
Application: I have heard Christians give formulas for getting God to answer prayer. Everything from getting two people to agree, to laying on of hands; saying certain phrases like, "in the name of Jesus," and even reminding God that what is being prayed for is assured in the Bible. The truth is, approaching prayer that way reduces those things to gimmicks. But here we see an answered prayer where even those who prayed it did not expect it to be answered. Wow! What this says to me is that God is faithful to answer any prayer that will bring about his perfect will, and, of course, we don't really know just what that might be at any given moment. So just pray and ask God. He might just give you an answer that you don't expect.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord that you are good and that you take good care of us. Help us to continue to pray, and leave the rest up to you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Title: No Good Deed Goes Unpunished / Topic: Criticism
Today’s Reading: Exodus 37; Exodus 38; Psalm 19; Acts 11
1 The apostles and the brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him 3 and said, "You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them."
Author's Note: Today's reading is rich and I would like to point out some items to look for as your read. Notice the detailed instructions for the tabernacle and its furnishings. Beautiful wood, gold, silver, bronze, are used -- all with carvings and intricate detail. And note the incredible amount of weight in gold, silver, and bronze (see chapter 38 footnotes) -- over seven tons in all! -- and this weight doesn't include the fabrics, skins, and woods used. That's a lot of weight for a "portable" system. They had to do church as a team. Enjoy Psalm 19 -- it's one of my favorites -- so many beautiful truths there.Scripture: Acts 11:1-3
1 The apostles and the brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him 3 and said, "You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them."
Observation: The Gentiles have become saved for the first time! Hallelujah! Right? Wrong. There are people complaining. And Peter is called on the carpet to explain and defend his actions.
Application: It always amazes me when I get to this part of Acts. And yet, I shouldn't be surprised. Even when people are getting saved, there are those in the church who will complain. They will find fault with something for some reason. There is nothing good that you can do in the church without meeting some resistance from somebody. As my title says, No Good Deed Goes Unpunished.
Bottom Line: I must decide not to worry about critics, knowing they will always be there and that they will always make their whining voices heard. That is not to say that all criticism is bad -- not at all. But those who chronically complain and never lift a finger to help are not worth listening to. I will listen to those who are next to me in the battle, but those who stay away from the fray and send their barbs after the fact, I choose to ignore.
Prayer: Lord, help me to play for you, my audience of one. May I please you and not worry about pleasing men. And keep the spirit of criticism away from our church. May we be grateful and happy and supportive.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Title: The Compelling Vision / Topic: Leadership
Today’s Reading: Exodus 35; Exodus 36; Acts 10
Scripture: Exodus 36:1-7
1 So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the LORD has commanded."
2 Then Moses summoned Bezalel and Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD had given ability and who was willing to come and do the work. 3 They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning. 4 So all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work 5 and said to Moses, "The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD commanded to be done."
6 Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: "No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary." And so the people were restrained from bringing more, 7 because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.
Observation: Here we clearly see Doing Church As A Team in action. We have all the skilled craftsman headed by Bezalel and Oholiab who are using their skills to create all the parts needed for the tabernacle, furnishings, garments, etc. And we have all the people bringing offerings for what they were building. In fact, they brought so much that the workmen complained to Moses and told them to stop!
Application: I absolutely love this and regard it as one of the most successful examples of vision casting I have ever heard of. Because the vision was successfully communicated, the craftsman took up the job and the people gave. And we see that this was not isolated to a few. No, all the skilled craftsman worked and all the people gave. For me is this a great inspiration and challenge. Moses did a fantastic job getting the message across to the point where all the people bought in to the vision and invested their talent and treasure.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be this kind of effective communicator -- sharing the vision and seeing people eager and excited to be a part of it. Help me to have clarity, passion, integrity, and your empowerment as I share what you have called me to do. May I lead with power and declare such a vivid vision that the only problems we have are too much giving, too many servants, too much excitement and enthusiasm. This is the kind of leader I want to be. Help me Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Exodus 36:1-7
1 So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the LORD has commanded."
2 Then Moses summoned Bezalel and Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD had given ability and who was willing to come and do the work. 3 They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning. 4 So all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work 5 and said to Moses, "The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD commanded to be done."
6 Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: "No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary." And so the people were restrained from bringing more, 7 because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.
Observation: Here we clearly see Doing Church As A Team in action. We have all the skilled craftsman headed by Bezalel and Oholiab who are using their skills to create all the parts needed for the tabernacle, furnishings, garments, etc. And we have all the people bringing offerings for what they were building. In fact, they brought so much that the workmen complained to Moses and told them to stop!
Application: I absolutely love this and regard it as one of the most successful examples of vision casting I have ever heard of. Because the vision was successfully communicated, the craftsman took up the job and the people gave. And we see that this was not isolated to a few. No, all the skilled craftsman worked and all the people gave. For me is this a great inspiration and challenge. Moses did a fantastic job getting the message across to the point where all the people bought in to the vision and invested their talent and treasure.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be this kind of effective communicator -- sharing the vision and seeing people eager and excited to be a part of it. Help me to have clarity, passion, integrity, and your empowerment as I share what you have called me to do. May I lead with power and declare such a vivid vision that the only problems we have are too much giving, too many servants, too much excitement and enthusiasm. This is the kind of leader I want to be. Help me Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Title: The Ultimate / Topic: God As Source
Today’s Reading: Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
Scripture: Psalm 16:2 I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing."
Observation: David gets it right here. Anything that we have that is good comes from the Lord and apart from him, we have no good thing.
Application: All the things of this world that we seek after are ultimately empty. Why do we devote so much energy to material things, to fame, to power, to pleasure? Only what the Lord brings into our lives is truly satisfying. Only those things will truly endure.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your servant David and for his clarity in bringing this truth to me. I ask you to awaken my senses to this truth so that all other things fade in comparison to you. I love you, Lord, and I am so grateful that you have called me to know you. Thank you, dear Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 16:2 I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing."
Observation: David gets it right here. Anything that we have that is good comes from the Lord and apart from him, we have no good thing.
Application: All the things of this world that we seek after are ultimately empty. Why do we devote so much energy to material things, to fame, to power, to pleasure? Only what the Lord brings into our lives is truly satisfying. Only those things will truly endure.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your servant David and for his clarity in bringing this truth to me. I ask you to awaken my senses to this truth so that all other things fade in comparison to you. I love you, Lord, and I am so grateful that you have called me to know you. Thank you, dear Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Title: How The Church Grows / Topic: God's Ways
Today’s Reading: Exodus 30; Exodus 31; Exodus 32; Acts 8
Scripture: Acts 8:4-6
4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. 6 When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said.
Observation: "Those who had been scattered..." What caused the scattering? The believers scattered because of a "great persecution" against the church at Jerusalem that began with the stoning of Stephen. We read that "all but the Apostles" were scattered. And because of this scattering, new ministry is birthed. Here Philip goes to Samaria and preaches. Wait a minute, who is this Philip that he should be a preacher? Isn't he one of the seven who were supposed to "wait on tables" and make sure the Grecian widows got food? Yet here he is preaching and performing miraculous signs. What gives?
Application: It struck me that because of the problem with the Grecian widows, new, fresh leadership was created. (Actually it was there before the problem surfaced but was not recognized.) And this emerging leadership released a whole new wave of ministry in the church which was not limited to the problem or area that had brought them forth in the first place. First, Stephen ministers so powerfully that he evokes a reaction from the Jewish leaders reminiscent of how they reacted to Jesus himself. Stephen's strong word of exhortation to these leaders, causes them to "gnash their teeth", rush upon him with an out-of-control scream, and stone him to death. And here we see Philip bringing salvation to a whole new region and ethnic group, the Samaritans. So we see a pattern of problems that result in new leadership, which produces new ministry and the resulting growth. It could be diagrammed like this:
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the privilege of being a part of your love-in-action here on this earth. And thank you for the way you enable us to participate in what you are doing here. I count it such an honor to be your servant. Help me to always be part of the solution and bring about your kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 8:4-6
4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. 6 When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said.
Observation: "Those who had been scattered..." What caused the scattering? The believers scattered because of a "great persecution" against the church at Jerusalem that began with the stoning of Stephen. We read that "all but the Apostles" were scattered. And because of this scattering, new ministry is birthed. Here Philip goes to Samaria and preaches. Wait a minute, who is this Philip that he should be a preacher? Isn't he one of the seven who were supposed to "wait on tables" and make sure the Grecian widows got food? Yet here he is preaching and performing miraculous signs. What gives?
Application: It struck me that because of the problem with the Grecian widows, new, fresh leadership was created. (Actually it was there before the problem surfaced but was not recognized.) And this emerging leadership released a whole new wave of ministry in the church which was not limited to the problem or area that had brought them forth in the first place. First, Stephen ministers so powerfully that he evokes a reaction from the Jewish leaders reminiscent of how they reacted to Jesus himself. Stephen's strong word of exhortation to these leaders, causes them to "gnash their teeth", rush upon him with an out-of-control scream, and stone him to death. And here we see Philip bringing salvation to a whole new region and ethnic group, the Samaritans. So we see a pattern of problems that result in new leadership, which produces new ministry and the resulting growth. It could be diagrammed like this:
PROBLEM -> NEW LEADERS EMERGE -> NEW MINISTRY -> GROWTHAnd guess what will come next? If you guess problems, you are right. And that will bring about the pattern we see above. This is how the church grows.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the privilege of being a part of your love-in-action here on this earth. And thank you for the way you enable us to participate in what you are doing here. I count it such an honor to be your servant. Help me to always be part of the solution and bring about your kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Title: Believe, Perceive, Receive / Topic: The Heart
Today’s Reading: Exodus 28; Exodus 29; Acts 7
Scripture: Acts 7:35, 39
35 "This is the same Moses whom they had rejected with the words, 'Who made you ruler and judge?' He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush... 39 "But our fathers refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt.
Observation: The Israelites rejected Moses. He was even verbally rebuffed with the words, "Who made you ruler and judge?" But notice that it tells us that God himself sent Moses to be their "ruler and deliverer."
Application: When people choose not to accept the good that God has provided for them, their perception of it is perverted and they cannot see it for the good that it is. They could not see Moses as their ruler and deliverer. They were only able to see him as their ruler and judge. Indeed, Moses was their judge, but first and foremost, he was their deliverer (much like Jesus is to us). Why could they not perceive the good of this? It was because of a heart problem. Verse 39 makes it clear: "in their hearts [they] turned back to Egypt." They may have been out of Egypt on the outside, but inside they were still enslaved.
Bottom line: It all goes back to the heart. If my heart is open and right before God, I can perceive correctly the good that God has for me. And once I correctly perceive, I can believe. And once I believe, I can receive. But those who set their will against God, turn their hearts away and turn the good to bad. Because they make themselves unable to correctly perceive, they cannot believe and are unable to receive.
Prayer: Lord, keep my heart right before you. I want to see you as you really are, and to see all the good that you have for me for what it is. Help me to correctly perceive that I may believe and receive all that you have for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 7:35, 39
35 "This is the same Moses whom they had rejected with the words, 'Who made you ruler and judge?' He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush... 39 "But our fathers refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt.
Observation: The Israelites rejected Moses. He was even verbally rebuffed with the words, "Who made you ruler and judge?" But notice that it tells us that God himself sent Moses to be their "ruler and deliverer."
Application: When people choose not to accept the good that God has provided for them, their perception of it is perverted and they cannot see it for the good that it is. They could not see Moses as their ruler and deliverer. They were only able to see him as their ruler and judge. Indeed, Moses was their judge, but first and foremost, he was their deliverer (much like Jesus is to us). Why could they not perceive the good of this? It was because of a heart problem. Verse 39 makes it clear: "in their hearts [they] turned back to Egypt." They may have been out of Egypt on the outside, but inside they were still enslaved.
Bottom line: It all goes back to the heart. If my heart is open and right before God, I can perceive correctly the good that God has for me. And once I correctly perceive, I can believe. And once I believe, I can receive. But those who set their will against God, turn their hearts away and turn the good to bad. Because they make themselves unable to correctly perceive, they cannot believe and are unable to receive.
Prayer: Lord, keep my heart right before you. I want to see you as you really are, and to see all the good that you have for me for what it is. Help me to correctly perceive that I may believe and receive all that you have for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Title: Lift Up The True Jesus / Topic: The Body Of Christ
Today’s Reading: Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6
Scripture: Acts 6:7 So the word of God spread...
Observation: What was it that resulted in this growth in the church? An evangelistic outreach or media campaign? An increase in staffing or a new facility? Actually this growth was the correcting of an injustice in the church which had resulted from ethnic prejudice. By addressing this problem, which stemmed from the most basic of human foibles, the early church leaders did an early course correction. This had the effect of removing from the church a misrepresentation of what the church is to be.
Application: God is not a racist. Because racism had been manifested in the early church, it, as the Body of Christ, had been misrepresenting Christ as racist. That is, when those who claim to represent God by being a part of his body act out any behavior, good or bad, they are telling the world, "This is what God is like." So when the Church allows ethnic resentments to have a place in it, they are saying one of two things. Either "God is OK with this" or worse, "God has these tendencies himself." Ouch! So when the church corrected these prejudicial practices, they distanced themselves and God from such hurtful (and evil) ideas. This course correction resulted in outsiders seeing God as he really is and wanting to be a part of his true church.
Bottom line: We have a solemn duty to represent Christ to the world as he really is. It is so important to be seeking to rid the Church (universal) and the church (local) of anything that is not of Christ, as everything that is of human origin will corrupt the image. This, of course, means that the lives of those who claim membership in the Church must change to conform to the image and likeness and fullness of Jesus Christ. If we hold onto anything that emanates from our own sinfulness, we act out in such a way that misrepresents Christ and pushes people away. This is why a church full of people authentically in the process of true repentance and intentional transformation will have the effect of increased evangelism. Jesus said, "If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto myself." When we lift up the true Jesus, rather than some distorted human caricature of him, the true beauty of his character is attractive to anyone seeking God. This is the true challenge of the church: to be so like Jesus that his life and character are unmistakable through the lives of his people.
Prayer: Lord, forgive us for misrepresenting you to the world. Assist and enable us to do better. Show us where we are missing the mark and help us to repent, making the course corrections that will put us on the path of holiness and true righteousness. May we truly lift up Jesus through our own lives in such a way that all people are drawn to your true Church.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 6:7 So the word of God spread...
Observation: What was it that resulted in this growth in the church? An evangelistic outreach or media campaign? An increase in staffing or a new facility? Actually this growth was the correcting of an injustice in the church which had resulted from ethnic prejudice. By addressing this problem, which stemmed from the most basic of human foibles, the early church leaders did an early course correction. This had the effect of removing from the church a misrepresentation of what the church is to be.
Application: God is not a racist. Because racism had been manifested in the early church, it, as the Body of Christ, had been misrepresenting Christ as racist. That is, when those who claim to represent God by being a part of his body act out any behavior, good or bad, they are telling the world, "This is what God is like." So when the Church allows ethnic resentments to have a place in it, they are saying one of two things. Either "God is OK with this" or worse, "God has these tendencies himself." Ouch! So when the church corrected these prejudicial practices, they distanced themselves and God from such hurtful (and evil) ideas. This course correction resulted in outsiders seeing God as he really is and wanting to be a part of his true church.
Bottom line: We have a solemn duty to represent Christ to the world as he really is. It is so important to be seeking to rid the Church (universal) and the church (local) of anything that is not of Christ, as everything that is of human origin will corrupt the image. This, of course, means that the lives of those who claim membership in the Church must change to conform to the image and likeness and fullness of Jesus Christ. If we hold onto anything that emanates from our own sinfulness, we act out in such a way that misrepresents Christ and pushes people away. This is why a church full of people authentically in the process of true repentance and intentional transformation will have the effect of increased evangelism. Jesus said, "If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto myself." When we lift up the true Jesus, rather than some distorted human caricature of him, the true beauty of his character is attractive to anyone seeking God. This is the true challenge of the church: to be so like Jesus that his life and character are unmistakable through the lives of his people.
Prayer: Lord, forgive us for misrepresenting you to the world. Assist and enable us to do better. Show us where we are missing the mark and help us to repent, making the course corrections that will put us on the path of holiness and true righteousness. May we truly lift up Jesus through our own lives in such a way that all people are drawn to your true Church.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Title: Unafraid And Unashamed / Topic: A Life Of True Faith
Today’s Reading: Exodus 23; Exodus 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5
Scripture: Acts 5:40-42
40 ...They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Observation: These were amazing men -- brave and faithful. They are flogged (which is mentioned in the text so casually -- almost as an aside) which is a serious and painful punishment, and yet they rejoice for being "counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name [of Jesus]!" Amazing! They are threatened and ordered not to speak anymore in the name of Jesus, yet the text says that they did not stop. And they continued "in the temple courts," the very place where it had gotten them into this trouble in the first place.
Application: What an encouragement and challenge this is to each of us who desire to be a faithful witness of the message of Jesus. These men endure and even rejoiced in truly painful consequences and they continued to preach despite threats and actual physical harm. This is quite convicting to me as I often find myself struggling with whether or not to share Jesus out of fear of the possibility of offending someone, or receiving someone's disapproval. These apostles demonstrate a level of passion that I so long to have. Lord, help me.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me and I ask you to empower and embolden me to be unafraid and unashamed in sharing the wonderful truth of your love for people. I want to be like these brave and faithful men.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 5:40-42
40 ...They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Observation: These were amazing men -- brave and faithful. They are flogged (which is mentioned in the text so casually -- almost as an aside) which is a serious and painful punishment, and yet they rejoice for being "counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name [of Jesus]!" Amazing! They are threatened and ordered not to speak anymore in the name of Jesus, yet the text says that they did not stop. And they continued "in the temple courts," the very place where it had gotten them into this trouble in the first place.
Application: What an encouragement and challenge this is to each of us who desire to be a faithful witness of the message of Jesus. These men endure and even rejoiced in truly painful consequences and they continued to preach despite threats and actual physical harm. This is quite convicting to me as I often find myself struggling with whether or not to share Jesus out of fear of the possibility of offending someone, or receiving someone's disapproval. These apostles demonstrate a level of passion that I so long to have. Lord, help me.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me and I ask you to empower and embolden me to be unafraid and unashamed in sharing the wonderful truth of your love for people. I want to be like these brave and faithful men.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Title: The Mockers / Topic: Negative Spirit
Today’s Reading: Exodus 14; Exodus 16; Acts 2
Scripture: Acts 2:11-13
11 "...we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"
13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine."
Observation: This is the moment of the birth of the Church. The Holy Spirit has fallen at Pentecost and a large crowd has gathered as they witness the miracle of being able to hear God's praise in their own language and dialect. People are "amazed and perplexed." Yet at this moment, there are the mockers, those ever-present, sacracsm-filled individuals who feel it their duty to use negative humor to put down others. They possess a negative spirit and inflict it upon others.
Application: Mockers are everywhere, and even more today. The spirit of our culture has nurtured cynicism, which is one of the seeds of mocking. So much of today's humor is negative, ugly, attack humor, even among friends. We must be aware of the mockers, but please, let's not join them. Steer clear of negative humor and cynicism. As Paul said, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)
Prayer: Lord, keep me far from mockers. I want to be an encourager of people.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 2:11-13
11 "...we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"
13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine."
Observation: This is the moment of the birth of the Church. The Holy Spirit has fallen at Pentecost and a large crowd has gathered as they witness the miracle of being able to hear God's praise in their own language and dialect. People are "amazed and perplexed." Yet at this moment, there are the mockers, those ever-present, sacracsm-filled individuals who feel it their duty to use negative humor to put down others. They possess a negative spirit and inflict it upon others.
Application: Mockers are everywhere, and even more today. The spirit of our culture has nurtured cynicism, which is one of the seeds of mocking. So much of today's humor is negative, ugly, attack humor, even among friends. We must be aware of the mockers, but please, let's not join them. Steer clear of negative humor and cynicism. As Paul said, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)
Prayer: Lord, keep me far from mockers. I want to be an encourager of people.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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