Pray about It - Greg Laurie - www.harvest.org
You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. -James 4:2
Have you ever stopped and thought that maybe there are things in your life that haven't happened because you have simply failed to ask God for them?
Maybe you are ill right now and have never actually prayed about it. Maybe you've never said something like, "You know, Lord, I have never asked You to heal me. Maybe I thought that if You wanted to heal me, You would just go ahead and do it. But I'm asking You to heal me." It just may be that you do not have because you do not ask.
Maybe you have a financial need and have exhausted every resource to meet it. Has it dawned on you that you could actually pray about it? The Bible says, "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). Perhaps you do not have because you do not ask.
Maybe your marriage is starting to unravel, and you don't know what to do. You have tried everything. You have talked to everyone. But have you actually prayed about your marriage and asked God to intervene? It might be that you do not have because you do not ask.
We should pray because prayer is God's appointed way for us to obtain things from Him. That is not the only purpose of prayer, but to fail to see this is to miss a lot. The Bible is very clear in pointing out that we "do not have because [we] do not ask" (James 4:2).
That doesn't mean that God always will answer our prayers the way we pray them. But it does mean that many times He will. So when you have a need, the first thing you ought to do is to pray about it.
You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. -James 4:2
Have you ever stopped and thought that maybe there are things in your life that haven't happened because you have simply failed to ask God for them?
Maybe you are ill right now and have never actually prayed about it. Maybe you've never said something like, "You know, Lord, I have never asked You to heal me. Maybe I thought that if You wanted to heal me, You would just go ahead and do it. But I'm asking You to heal me." It just may be that you do not have because you do not ask.
Maybe you have a financial need and have exhausted every resource to meet it. Has it dawned on you that you could actually pray about it? The Bible says, "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). Perhaps you do not have because you do not ask.
Maybe your marriage is starting to unravel, and you don't know what to do. You have tried everything. You have talked to everyone. But have you actually prayed about your marriage and asked God to intervene? It might be that you do not have because you do not ask.
We should pray because prayer is God's appointed way for us to obtain things from Him. That is not the only purpose of prayer, but to fail to see this is to miss a lot. The Bible is very clear in pointing out that we "do not have because [we] do not ask" (James 4:2).
That doesn't mean that God always will answer our prayers the way we pray them. But it does mean that many times He will. So when you have a need, the first thing you ought to do is to pray about it.
"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV)
One day as I was putting away some laundry, I caught a glimpse of our upstairs family room through the door at the end of the hall. The sun was streaming in the windows, filling the room with bright light. Instead of simply rejoicing at the sunshine, I couldn't help but notice how worn the carpet had become.
I didn't love the drab color to begin with, but after years of wear and tear with an aging dog, a teenage boy and three puppies, that carpet definitely had lost its new-house freshness.
The declining condition of the carpet reminds me of an ever-growing list of things falling apart around the house. If I let myself think about it too long, I can get so overwhelmed counting the flaws (and lack of funds to improve them) that I begin to grow discontent with my home. Before I know it, I'm daydreaming about a better house in a different neighborhood.
My dream house includes a picket fence, more closet space, less clutter and definitely no drab or smelly carpet in the family room!
I almost believe that if only I lived there, life would be so much easier.
There's nothing particularly wrong with daydreaming now and then about home improvement or a better house, but I've learned that what comes next can either help or hinder me.
When I'm tempted to peer over a picket fence to see if the grass is indeed greener on the other side, I know it's time to turn around right then and there and change my perspective. The home I have is enough.
Most of the time I really am grateful for the gift of a roof over my head, but if I lose perspective, it doesn't take much for discontent to move in and steal any contentment with what I have.
Yes, carpet can be cleaned or even replaced someday. Clutter can be removed to reveal more closet space. The dishes will have to be done in any house we live in. I will never get to every project on our to-do list.
Any home needs some TLC to transform it into a sanctuary for our families. Yet to find true contentment in all circumstances, as our key verse reminds us, I have to be transformed first.
I've learned that it's not about finding the right house or keeping up with the to-do list or the Joneses, but about learning how to find joy and delight in what I've been given (even when it isn't exactly what I would have chosen!).
With the right perspective, I can create a comfortable space to serve God and my family well, right here in this place.
Every uplifting word we speak to our families, every time we pick up the mess or clean the carpet or rearrange the furniture, every opportunity we take to show hospitality and love to the people who come through our door - they all matter.
Caring for the home we have with a perspective of gratitude builds up our contentment with what God has provided. As Colossians 3:17 says, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (NIV).
Whether your home is an apartment, a condo, a rental or your forever dream house, the ordinary blessings you count every day will keep your perspective on what matters most.
Dear Lord, sometimes I lose perspective when viewing the gifts right in front of me. I start to believe my dream house must be somewhere else, because it certainly couldn't be right here in this mess. Help me refocus my heart and find contentment right here, in this place You so graciously provided for me. Help me honor You through learning to take care of the home I have and showing love to the people who enter through my door. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"Listen for GOD'S voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track." Proverbs 3:6 (MSG)
It was a hot day inside and outside at the orphan village in Liberia. The 12 boys inside, practicing their choir music, found their eyes wandering over to the soccer field, where the promise of fun and the cheers of their friends tugged at them.
They were feeling the pull of wanting to go outside and play soccer. But these boys determined the choir was worth the sacrifice.
Years earlier, Liberia had been ravaged by a civil war that left more than 25,000 orphans to be cared for. So to raise money and support, an a cappella boys' choir was formed to travel throughout the country of Liberia and perform in churches.
Two of the teenage boys in that choir, Jackson and Mark, had been orphaned as babies when their parents and most of their siblings were killed by rebel forces.
Night after night, these boys knelt beside their makeshift beds and poured out prayers of thanksgiving and hope that one day they'd hear six simple yet life-changing words, "You are my child - welcome home."
God had a perfect design for their prayers to be answered and worked miracle after miracle to bring the boys' choir to America. But little did I know my husband Art and I would be part of the answer to Mark and Jackson's prayers.
Our life was busy and full, and we were enjoying being the parents of three little girls. So you can imagine my surprise the night I went to see The Liberian Boys' Choir concert at our church that I was stirred to consider adoption.
As I sat in the concert, God whispered to my heart that two of those boys singing were mine. No, I thought. Not me.
I felt like sticking my fingers in my ears and singing, La, la, la, la, la . I'm not listening to You, God! But the stirring in my heart wouldn't stop.
I decided to try a new tactic with Him. Lord, I just came here tonight to bring my girls to a simple little cultural event. I'm not looking for a major life change. My life is already very full with speaking and writing and homeschooling three girls. Besides, all my friends would think I was crazy, and my husband would never think this is a good idea.
But God wasn't discouraged by my response. His directive in my heart became more intense as the evening went on. After the concert, I asked the coordinator of the event which of the boys still needed homes. He told me that eight of the boys still needed to find families and encouraged me to walk into the reception area where they were. If God intended for some of these boys to be ours, he was sure I'd know it.
Reluctantly, I walked into the reception area. In a matter of seconds, Jackson and Mark walked up to me, wrapped their arms around me, and called me Mom.
I was moved and terrified at the same time.
What began as a small heart prompting had turned into a very big decision for our family.
After talking with Art, we cried out to God, desperate for His guidance and wisdom. We pondered every aspect and wrestled with this decision deep in our spirits.
Still, doubts and questions flooded our minds: How could we financially increase the size of our family? How would we find the time in our already crammed schedule? How would we raise boys? How would we find room in our home? The list went on and on.
One day, I called a friend and poured out my heart. I told her I could list many other parents who were much more qualified to adopt. She patiently listened without much response as I asked, "Why me?"
Then quietly and prayerfully she answered: "Because God knew you'd say yes, Lysa."
I was stunned. It was the highest compliment I'd ever received. My heart was filled with joy as memories filled my mind of the years of small steps God had me take to reach the place where I could be prepared to take this much bigger step.
Now, over 10 years later, I think back to sitting in that church pew, just going about my ordinary life when God's extraordinary invitation burst forth. I could have so easily walked out of that church and ignored God's stirring. I've done that more times than I'd like to admit. But look at everything we would have missed out on, had I done that.
Hear my heart: I'm not saying everyone is called to adopt. Honestly, the next big step God wants you to take might actually be small. But we'll never know what that next step is if we don't "listen for GOD'S voice in everything we do, everywhere we go" as Proverbs 3:6 instructs us.
Each day we can look for His invitation to leave our plans behind to join Him in His wondrous work through small steps of obedience.
Dear Lord, today I will embrace what You have for me. I will step out in faith because Your ways are higher than mine! In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge." Psalm 19:1-2 (NIV)
When I was a little girl, on lazy days my mother would spread an old, worn blanket in our small front yard. I'd lie there for what seemed like hours, daydreaming about all sorts of wonderful things.
Surrounded by a blended fragrance of honeysuckle and fresh-cut grass, I'd close my eyes as the gentle breeze blew through my strawberry blonde bangs. The summer heat would sizzle my forehead as I aimlessly swatted at the garden gnats that were stirred up because of my unannounced intrusion.
Gazing at the skies, I'd count the clouds and watch them slowly glide across the blue canopy stretched out above me. One by one, I'd imagine those enormous puffy shapes to be all the things I loved: birthday balloons, fluffy stuffed animals and heart-shaped boxes.
When I reminisce about those days on the front lawn, it brings back such sweet memories. Peaceful moments that felt simple and carefree. No place to go and no reason to rush. I was content to just rest and take in the beauty of God's creation.
My days look quite different now. Maybe yours do, too. Let's face the facts: there will always be errands to run, commitments to fill and good reasons to rush. If we're not intentional, we will miss the opportunities to experience the beauty of God's creation.
So let me ask you . when was the last time you paused for a moment and noticed the clouds above you? Or watched the sky explode with color as the sun gently sank into the horizon? When was the last time you noticed birds singing first thing in the morning or counted the stars at night?
I know. It sounds like a luxury, doesn't it? After all, who has time for that sort of thing? Life is busy. There's so much to do.
Sky gazing is for children who have all the time in the world, or for teenagers who zone out in English class as they stare out the window, right? Well, not exactly .
Today's key verses tells a different story: "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge" (Psalm 19:1-2).
When we look at the skies above, we can clearly see evidence of God's glory as written in the Scriptures. God alone created the heavens and earth so that all living things would rejoice in His splendor.
But many of us rarely take time to notice. To pause and marvel at the vast beauty of His creation. What could be more important than experiencing the revelation of God's glory?
The sun illuminates at His spoken command, and the stars are formed with magnificent perfection. The galaxies were created by His grand approval. Not a single cloud moves without His direction.
The Lord takes pleasure in all He has made, so let us marvel at the greatness of His creation. Let's be sure to give God all the glory He deserves.
Let the earth rejoice and be glad! Let the heavens sing out His praises! Let the sea bow before Him as the waves reveal His wonder! Let every voice lift high the holy name of our Lord Almighty! For He is worthy!
Dear God, thank You for creating the heavens to declare Your glory and the skies to proclaim the work of Your almighty hands. Help me to have a greater awareness of Your creation and to pause throughout my day to celebrate the grandeur of it all. For You are worthy of all glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Holy Things
"If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, in the holy things of the LORD." (Leviticus 5:15)
"If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, in the holy things of the LORD." (Leviticus 5:15)
The "shadow of things to come" (Colossians 2:17) in the Old Testament focuses on physical items and places that were considered especially holy and dedicated.
. Holy place (Exodus 26:33-34)
. Holy altar (Exodus 29:37)
. Holy sacrifices (Exodus 29:33-34)
. Holy garments (Exodus 28:2-4)
. Holy ointment (Exodus 30:31-37)
. Holy vessels (1 Chronicles 22:19)
. Holy altar (Exodus 29:37)
. Holy sacrifices (Exodus 29:33-34)
. Holy garments (Exodus 28:2-4)
. Holy ointment (Exodus 30:31-37)
. Holy vessels (1 Chronicles 22:19)
In the New Testament, however, the "holy things" were focused on the eternal and spiritual holiness that was merely "shadowed" by the earlier ceremonies. Our "holy calling" (2 Timothy 1:9) is granted through our "holy faith" (Jude 1:20). God has designed us to become "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9).
While we serve the Lord on this earth, we are "sealed with that holy Spirit of promise" (Ephesians 1:13), expecting that the Lord will make us "to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men.. To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God" (1 Thessalonians 3:12-13).
Jerusalem on Earth, destroyed and rebuilt throughout history, is the prototype of "the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven" wherein "the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God" (Revelation 21:2-3). HMM III
Knowing the Heart of God
1 Corinthians 13:11-13Most people long to be understood. We may have many acquaintances, but we all have a deep need to feel truly known by those we love most. This is because we were created in God's image--He also desires to be intimately understood and loved by us.
Just as you don't want to be known for only the superficial details of who you appear to be, it's not enough to know about the Lord. He wants us to learn how He thinks and feels, what's important to Him, and what His purposes are. Of course, it's impossible for man to completely know the mind of the Creator of the universe. In Isaiah 55:9, He tells us, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." The depth and breadth of His mind is so great we will never be able to fully grasp it in this lifetime.
However, we can better understand God's heart and character by seeking Him and learning day by day from His Word. If we genuinely desire to walk in His ways, we must first genuinely know Him. We come to know our friends better by sharing more experiences together. Similarly, we will also understand God better the longer we walk with Him and meditate on what He has revealed about Himself in the Bible.
God wants you to seek Him with all your heart, and He promises that when you do, you will find Him (Jer. 29:13). So, the next time you're feeling a need to be better understood, turn to the One who understands you perfectly. Even more importantly, ask Him to help you know Him better.
Enslaved by Debt
Proverbs 22:7
Personal debt has skyrocketed in our Western culture. Easy credit, a desire for material goods, and an unwillingness to save and wait have led many people down the path of financial bondage. The Bible doesn't forbid borrowing, but it clearly warns us of its negative consequences. Our verse today describes the borrower as the lender's slave.
Every dollar you borrow costs you a measure of freedom. Your paycheck is no longer entirely yours; a part of it must be set aside to repay your creditor. As the interest adds up, the financial burden may necessitate longer working hours. For Christians, the obligation to repay debt oftentimes hinders the ability to give to
the Lord's work or help people in need. Instead of getting the first part, God gets leftovers or nothing at all.
The consequences of accumulating debtreach beyond monetary issues. The burden of mounting bills creates emotional and relational stress. In fact, financial problems are one of the leading causes of divorce. Even our relationship with the Lord is affected when we let our appetite for the world's goods override our obedience to biblical principles. Although God promises to supply our needs, how often do we jump ahead of Him and provide for ourselves with "easy payment plans."
The next time you are tempted to charge a purchase that you really can't afford, stop! Go home and ask the Lord if He wants you to have it. If He does, ask Him to provide it. Then wait. True freedom comes to those who rely on the Lord's promises instead of their credit cards.
The Priority of Relationship
Revelation 2:1-7
Ephesuswas the home of a tremendous ministry. Despite harsh persecution, the church planted by Paul endured opposition, spread the gospel, and was quick to challenge false prophets. But 30 years after the apostle left, John's revelation included a stern warning for those believers.
Imagine how the words of Revelation 2 must have struck the Ephesians when they read them. After complimenting their service to the gospel, Christ said, "But I have this against you . . ." That phrase was no doubt extremely disconcerting. The Lord warned them that they had left their first love. In other words, all of their work was being done with wrong motives.
Christ called the Ephesians to remember their love for Him and their delight in His salvation. Service is no substitute for an intimate relationship, but modern believers continue to fall into this subtle trap. The commendable things that we do count for nothing unless they stem from a vibrant personal connection with God. Our work can't be effective or fruitful unless He is in it.
In fact, God is more interested in you and your personal relationship with Him than in a thousand lifetimes of good works. He desires to be the satisfaction and delight of His children so that their service is a result of loving devotion.
There are plenty of wrong reasons to labor for the kingdom. However, God is satisfied only with service motivated by love for Him. He wants those with selfish intentions to return to their first love. In that way, hearts and minds can be renewed, and service to the Lord will be more fruitful.
Recognizing God's Handiwork
Psalms 33:3-11
The work God does is creative. He made heaven, earth, and all living creatures. He formed Adam and Eve in His image and knitted each of us in our mother's womb.
His work is also powerful. Through His Son Jesus, He accomplished a great salvation for all who trust in the Savior. Our heavenly Father worked mightily to open a way for us to be reconciled to Him and adopted into His family. Not only that, but God's work is ongoing, and Jesus is the One who holds all things together (Col. 1:17).
In order to recognize God's handiwork, we need to pray in an active, persistent manner. Christ-centered prayers narrow our focus to the Lord. Then we can more readily identify His actions and see how to join Him. Self-centered petitions serve to distract us from Him.
The Father also wants our heart and mind yielded to His will. Pursuing our own agenda shifts the focus to ourselves and makes us lose sight of the Lord. But a submissive attitude prepares us to listen and obey. Regularly concentrating on God's Word will clear our minds and help us understand what the Lord is doing.
When we combine these disciplines with discernment and patience, we will have positioned ourselves to discover how God is working in our lives and in our world.
Our Lord is at work today--calling nonbelievers to saving faith and the redeemed to a closer walk with Him. His plans include individuals, families, and nations. Have you been too busy or distracted to notice what He's doing? Confess your inattention and refocus your heart and mind on Him.
God Is at Work
John 5:16-19
Throughout the Bible, we observe God at work in people's lives. Sometimes He acts in dramatic fashion, as in parting the Red Sea to allow the Israelites to escape the Egyptian army. At other times it may appear as if He's not taking any action. Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus that their brother needed His help, but Christ delayed before traveling to their home (John 11:3-6).
Our Father has given us the Holy Spirit to help us recognize His presence and handiwork. The Spirit cultivates spiritual discernment in us so we can understand when and where He's at work.
In addition to spiritual discernment, we must develop patience because the Lord operates according to His timetable, not ours. After being promised numerous descendants, Abrahan had to wait until he and Sarah were beyond childbearing years before she conceived. Impatience can cause us to take matters into our own hands and make mistakes.
The Lord's efforts can bring delight, as was the case when Hannah bore a child (1 Sam. 1:27-2:1). His plan can also lead through painful times, which was Joseph's experience. Before the Lord elevated him to a position of authority to help his family, Joseph was sold into slavery and unjustly imprisoned.
Jesus told the disciples that His Father was always at work and so was He. We will be encouraged and strengthened in our faith when we recognize the ways in which God is operating. These glimpses of His handiwork will motivate us to stay the course and help us maintain a godly perspective on life.
Resting in the Faithfulness of God
1 Corinthians 1:1-9
When plans are frustrated or life just seems to fall apart in some way, people often wonder, Has God deserted me? Why hasn't He answered my prayers? The Bible offers encouragement for such times by assuring us of the Father's faithfulness: "Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments" (Deut 7:9).
Five attributes of God make this possible. First, He is omniscient, which means He knows everything, including our every need, thought, frailty, desire, and life situation in the past, present, and future. Next, the Lord is omnipotent, or all-powerful, so nothing is too hard for Him (Jer. 32:17). Then, He is omnipresent--since He exists everywhere at once, He is never beyond reach.
In addition, our heavenly Father cannot lie. Everything that He says is true and reliable. And lastly, God is unchanging. Our circumstances and the world around us may seem to be in a constant state of flux, and the Lord may even modify the way He chooses to interact with mankind in different generations. But His character is always the same. So when Scripture tells us that God is faithful, we can rest confidently upon that promise.
Circumstances can be painful. But even when situations seem overwhelming, believers can trust that our sovereign Lord knows all, is in control, and lovingly works everything for His children's good. We can rest confidently knowing that the unchanging God of all creation is taking care of us.
Seeking Guidance
Psalms 25:4-5
When you're facing a decision, whether big or small, it is important to wait upon God for His direction and timing. And though it may sound paradoxical, there are three ways that we can take an active role in the process while we wait.
First, we should examine our heart, asking the Holy Spirit to expose any wrongs. If He brings something to light, it is important to take care of that sin immediately--by confessing, repenting, and doing whatever's needed to correct the situation. At times we push this task aside because the impending decision seems like our main concern. Yet we cannot hear from God or receive His full blessing until we deal with transgression.
Second, when seeking direction, we should listen patiently and attentively for the Lord to give the go-ahead. It can be difficult to wait, especially when emotions or logic lead us to favor one choice.
Third, the answer to our prayer at times requires our involvement. For instance, when people tell me they're out of work and trusting God to provide, I always want to know if they are actively looking for a job. Some are not; they are simply praying. We have responsibility not only to present God with requests and seek His guidance but also to be active in the process. Waiting on God is not an excuse to be lazy.
Prayer is a beautiful privilege that the heavenly Father gives to His children. He desires to lead us into a life of abundance. We should take an active part in seeking His will and listening for His voice. As we follow the Holy Spirit's guidance, we will experience all that the Lord has for us.
The Deep Sleep
"And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof." (Genesis 2:21)
Babes in Christ
"Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men." (1 Corinthians 14:20)
"Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men." (1 Corinthians 14:20)
The Christian life is entered by the new birth so that everyone who is genuinely born again must begin as a spiritual babe. "Except ye be converted, and become as little children," said the Lord Jesus, "ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3).
Furthermore, they should continue to be as innocent children insofar as "malice" (Greek kakia, literally meaning "wickedness" or "evil") is concerned. This is an attribute which should diminish, not grow, in a believer.
The sad truth, however, is that many born-again Christians remain spiritual babes in attributes which should characterize strong men and women of God. Paul equated the term "babes in Christ" with carnality, characterized by "envying, and strife, and divisions" (1 Corinthians 3:1, 3). Paul also speaks of those Christians as "children" who are "tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine" (Ephesians 4:14). He urges each one to be "speaking the truth in love," so that we "may grow up into him [Christ] in all things" (Ephesians 4:15).
Spiritual growth, of course, can come only through spiritual food and spiritual exercise. "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby" (1 Peter 2:2). "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil" (Hebrews 5:14).
Christians should become mature, both in understanding and in behavior. The last reference to growth in the Bible applies to each Christian: "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). HMM
The Holy Spirit indwells all believers (1 Corinthians 1:22; 6:19, etc.) and the fruit of the Spirit includes "goodness" (Galatians 5:22) among eight other godly traits. One should therefore expect those empowered by the Spirit (Romans 15:19) to demonstrate holy goodness.
How does holy goodness manifest itself in people?
. Good people delight in God's holiness (Psalm 37:23).
. Good people expect God's blessing (Proverbs 12:2).
. Good people secure their children (Proverbs 13:22).
. Good people are satisfied with life (Proverbs 14:14).
. Good people love wisdom (Matthew 12:35).
. Good people are just people (Luke 23:50).
. Good people are full of faith (Acts 11:24).
. Good people expect God's blessing (Proverbs 12:2).
. Good people secure their children (Proverbs 13:22).
. Good people are satisfied with life (Proverbs 14:14).
. Good people love wisdom (Matthew 12:35).
. Good people are just people (Luke 23:50).
. Good people are full of faith (Acts 11:24).
Our Lord Jesus made it clear that the "fruits" borne by our lives provide the identification of our spiritual status (Matthew 7:20) for all to see.
The parables of the "talents" and the "pounds" (Matthew 25:14-30 and Luke 19:11-27) teach two different applications of the same principle.
In the one case, the same amount was given to everyone and reward was based on how well each did with their resources.
In the other case, different resources were granted to each, and the reward was distributed in proportion to the faithful use of what was initially given.
In both cases, the "unfaithful" and "lazy" servant was castigated and his initial wealth confiscated. No man "having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62).
Good people are productive people. HMM III
Good people are productive people. HMM III
In a Moment of Time
"And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time." (Luke 4:5)
"And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time." (Luke 4:5)
It is interesting that there are just three "moments" mentioned in the New Testament and that there are three different Greek words so translated, each used one time only in the Bible. Furthermore, each of these three "moments" is used in a context which is anticipatory of the future.
First of all, Satan tempted Jesus by flashing before His eyes a vision of the whole world, offering it to Him immediately without His having to endure the cross, if He would rule it for the devil. Here the Greek word for "moment" is stigme, meaning a "point," like a period after a sentence. In an infinite "time line," it would be just a dot on the line, a "point" in time. Satan's apparent dominion over this world, though it lasts six thousand years or so, is only a moment compared to eternity, and Jesus knew this was a poor bargain.
One day, in fact, He will return to reclaim the world from Satan. At that great day, "we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye" (1 Corinthians 15:51-52). In this passage, the unique word is atomos, meaning an indivisible particle. That is, in an "atom of time," too instantaneous to measure, we shall be changed to be like Him in "his glorious body" (Philippians 3:21).
Right now, however, our bodies are weak and easily beset with pain and sickness. Nevertheless, we are assured that "our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory" (2 Corinthians 4:17). The word here is parautika, referring specifically to the present moment. What we must endure "here and now" is so brief compared to the eternity "then and there" that it is not even "worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18). HMM
| The Poetry of God "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10) |
Glorious Holiness
"Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?" (Exodus 15:11)
"Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?" (Exodus 15:11)
Our finite minds would never grasp the idea of holiness if not for the revelation granted to us in the Scriptures. God's "separateness" requires even the awesome four-faced, sixwinged Seraphim to "rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, LORD God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come" (Revelation 4:8).
Samuel's gentle mother, praying before the tabernacle, was no doubt moved by the Spirit of God to proclaim, "There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee" (1 Samuel 2:2). Her short statement of faith is the core of holiness-the separate unique character that only the Creator of the universe can possess.
Those who have been "born again" (John 3:3) are called "saints" (Romans 1:7, etc.) when they were "created in righteousness and true holiness" (Ephesians 4:24). Our "holiness" is part of the "gift of God" from the One who is holy, "without which no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).
Because our Creator, Lord, and King is "righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works" (Psalm 145:17), it should come as no surprise that "as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15-16).
The "great and precious promises" (2 Peter 1:4) given to us by our gracious Lord are the spiritual means by which we can "cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God" (2 Corinthians 7:1).
Our destiny is sure. Our duty is clear. "Yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my God shall be my strength" (Isaiah 49:5). HMM III
In Time of Trouble
"For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock." (Psalm 27:5)
"For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock." (Psalm 27:5)
In this psalm of praise, David expresses his confidence in the Lord, even though "the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh" (v. 2). In spite of the danger, he looks to God for safety. "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (v. 1). Why did God preserve David? The answer is at least twofold.
First, David had a heart for God. "One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple" (v. 4). "Thy face, Lord, will I seek" (v. 8). "Teach me thy way, O LORD" (v. 11).
The second reason is the nature of God Himself. God, by His very nature, hates evil and extends grace toward His own. He is pictured here as a warrior conquering the evil enemies of David. His laws forbid their actions; His gospel robbed these evildoers of their grip; His final kingdom will be rid of them. Until God's justice, His gospel, and His purpose all fail, we can be sure that He will act.
In our text, David is hidden in the Lord's "pavilion." The word, which literally means a protective covering, was used for the tent of the commander-in-chief. Here, with the commander-in-chief, is the most fortified, guarded, and safe area of the battleground. If the pavilion falls, the battle is lost and God has failed. Hidden in His pavilion, we are as safe as He. He sees to it that we are not frightened (v. 13) amid the din of battle, and we shall share in the ultimate victory.
In this world, we have tumultuous war; in the next, unbroken peace. Assured of the outcome, we can "wait on the Lord: [and] be of good courage" (v. 14). JDM
There are yet quite a number of unsettled controversies among Bible scholars as to the original text of certain passages in both Old and New Testaments. In fact, a frequent objection raised to the doctrine of biblical inerrancy is that, since all the original "autographs" have been lost, we can never really be sure of any passage.
It is interesting to speculate on what happened to those manuscripts directly inspired by God and penned by Moses, John, Paul, and the others. It is strange that they all simply disappeared, with not a hint as to their history. If they had been preserved in a church or monastery somewhere, they would soon have become idolatrous objects of worship, so it is probably best they are gone.
But where did they go? The famous "ark of the covenant" similarly vanished at the time of the Babylonian invasion, and many fruitless searches have been conducted for it even in modern times. In this case, however, we do have a remarkable revelation. "And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament" (Revelation 11:19). Evidently, the ark has been translated into heaven! We must realize that heaven is a real place in this eternal physical cosmos. Enoch and Elijah were translated there in their earthly bodies, and Christ is there in His physical resurrection body.
If, perhaps, angels somehow carried the original manuscripts of God's Word to heaven after enough copies had been made to assure its faithful transmission on Earth, placing them there in the ark, like the tablets of the law when it was still on the earth, this would surely give added meaning to our wonderful text verse: "For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven!" HMM
The Beginning of the Creation
"But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female." (Mark 10:6)
These words of the Lord Jesus Christ ought to settle once and for all, for those who take His words seriously, the controversial question of the age of the earth. The earth was created essentially at the same time, He said, as the creation of Adam and Eve. Christ was quoting from Genesis 1:27: "male and female created He them." This greatest of God's creative works was "from the beginning of the creation," not 13 billion years after the beginning of the creation, as modern old-earth advocates allege.
One can understand why atheists believe in evolution and an almost infinitely old universe, for they really have no other alternative. One who believes in a personal God, on the other hand, only dishonors God if he believes such humanistic speculations rather than God's Word. God is omniscient and omnipotent, as well as loving and merciful, and He would never do anything like this. The great ages assumed by evolutionary geologists supposedly involved billions of years of suffering and dying by billions of animals before man ever evolved. Surely this would have been the most inefficient, wasteful, and cruel method that ever could have been devised for "creating" human beings. Since man's creation was God's main purpose, there is no conceivable reason why He would waste billions of years in such a meaningless charade as this before getting to the point.
In fact, the only reason He took six days instead of an instant of time was to serve as a pattern for man's work week (Exodus 20:8-11). In fact, the Lord Jesus Christ was not only a creationist, but was Himself the Creator of all things (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16; etc.). Therefore, He is the best possible witness as to when He created man and woman, and He said it was "from the beginning of the creation!" HMM
"But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female." (Mark 10:6)
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