Chastening
“Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty.” (Job 5:17)
One of the fascinating paradoxes of Scripture (and of human life) is the oft-repeated principle that true parental love requires appropriate chastening, and chastening rightly received generates blessing and happiness. “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes” (Proverbs 13:24).
This is effective child psychology, assuming that the chastening is remedial rather than vindictive and is applied in love rather than anger. But the main teaching of such passages goes beyond parental child-training methods to the grand theme of God’s spiritual training of His children for eternity.
This thought is often expressed in the Psalms (94:12, etc.), but it is especially clear in Proverbs. “My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth” (Proverbs 3:11-12).
The classic passage on this theme is Hebrews 12:5-11, which begins by quoting the above verses in Proverbs, and eventually concludes as follows: “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby” (Hebrews 12:11).
We are “sons and daughters” of “the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:18), and it is essential that we be properly trained for our glorious future as “kings and priests unto God” (Revelation 1:6). We must learn to behave in ways appropriate to our high calling as children of the King, and this requires the divine rod at appropriate times. In His closing words to the last of the seven churches, Christ reminds us again: “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent” (Revelation 3:19). HMM
“Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty.” (Job 5:17)
One of the fascinating paradoxes of Scripture (and of human life) is the oft-repeated principle that true parental love requires appropriate chastening, and chastening rightly received generates blessing and happiness. “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes” (Proverbs 13:24).
This is effective child psychology, assuming that the chastening is remedial rather than vindictive and is applied in love rather than anger. But the main teaching of such passages goes beyond parental child-training methods to the grand theme of God’s spiritual training of His children for eternity.
This thought is often expressed in the Psalms (94:12, etc.), but it is especially clear in Proverbs. “My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth” (Proverbs 3:11-12).
The classic passage on this theme is Hebrews 12:5-11, which begins by quoting the above verses in Proverbs, and eventually concludes as follows: “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby” (Hebrews 12:11).
We are “sons and daughters” of “the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:18), and it is essential that we be properly trained for our glorious future as “kings and priests unto God” (Revelation 1:6). We must learn to behave in ways appropriate to our high calling as children of the King, and this requires the divine rod at appropriate times. In His closing words to the last of the seven churches, Christ reminds us again: “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent” (Revelation 3:19). HMM
Garments of Salvation
“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10)
One of the beautiful biblical metaphors of salvation is that of clothing appropriate for coming into God’s presence. Such clothing is not something we ourselves can make or purchase; it must be prepared and provided by God.
Adam and Eve tried to dress themselves in fig leaves, but that could not avail. Their Creator God first had to slay two innocent animals, and then He made “coats of skins and clothed them” (see Genesis 3:7, 21).
So it is today. If we try to come to God dressed in our works of righteousness, we can never make it, for “all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags” in the presence of a holy God (Isaiah 64:6). He must provide the clothing. As our text says, “he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.”
In Jesus’ parable of the wedding feast for the king’s son, there was one man who wanted to participate in the feast, but who tried to come in his own attire, disdaining the wedding garment provided by the king for his guests. When the king asked, “How camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?” he was speechless (Matthew 22:12), and then was bound hand and foot and thrown “into outer darkness” (v. 13).
When “the marriage of the Lamb is come,” His bride must be “arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: . . . the righteousness of saints” (Revelation 19:7-8). But this righteousness will be His, “for we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works” (Ephesians 2:10). Therefore, we are exhorted to “put on thy beautiful garments” (Isaiah 52:1) and be prepared to meet our King. HMM
“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10)
One of the beautiful biblical metaphors of salvation is that of clothing appropriate for coming into God’s presence. Such clothing is not something we ourselves can make or purchase; it must be prepared and provided by God.
Adam and Eve tried to dress themselves in fig leaves, but that could not avail. Their Creator God first had to slay two innocent animals, and then He made “coats of skins and clothed them” (see Genesis 3:7, 21).
So it is today. If we try to come to God dressed in our works of righteousness, we can never make it, for “all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags” in the presence of a holy God (Isaiah 64:6). He must provide the clothing. As our text says, “he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.”
In Jesus’ parable of the wedding feast for the king’s son, there was one man who wanted to participate in the feast, but who tried to come in his own attire, disdaining the wedding garment provided by the king for his guests. When the king asked, “How camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?” he was speechless (Matthew 22:12), and then was bound hand and foot and thrown “into outer darkness” (v. 13).
When “the marriage of the Lamb is come,” His bride must be “arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: . . . the righteousness of saints” (Revelation 19:7-8). But this righteousness will be His, “for we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works” (Ephesians 2:10). Therefore, we are exhorted to “put on thy beautiful garments” (Isaiah 52:1) and be prepared to meet our King. HMM
Who Is Faithful?
“Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6)
Faithfulness is like a rare and precious gem. It is difficult to find a real such gem, though there are many who will offer their virtues as a substitute.
Moses, however, was one such man. “And Moses verily was faithful in all his house” (Hebrews 3:5). So was Abraham. “So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham” (Galatians 3:9). Moses and Abraham were full of faith in God’s Word; therefore they were faithful to God’s Word. The very word “faithful” means “full of faith.”
God is not impressed with those who boast of themselves and their qualifications or who belittle others. “It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory” (Proverbs 25:27). Actions speak louder than words, and it is better to let one’s works speak for themselves. “Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works” (James 2:18). The rare quality of faithfulness—firm and reliable commitment to one’s convictions and responsibilities, in accordance with God’s Word and God’s leading—is proved in practice rather than proclamation. May God help us to be faithful servants, for “it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). It is quality, not quantity, of service that God measures. Faithfulness—not fruitfulness—is required.
There is one glorious promise regarding faithfulness—not our faithfulness, but the faithfulness of our Savior. “If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself” (2 Timothy 2:13). “For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith [literally, ‘faithfulness’] of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be [found] true, but every man a liar” (Romans 3:3-4). HMM
“Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6)
Faithfulness is like a rare and precious gem. It is difficult to find a real such gem, though there are many who will offer their virtues as a substitute.
Moses, however, was one such man. “And Moses verily was faithful in all his house” (Hebrews 3:5). So was Abraham. “So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham” (Galatians 3:9). Moses and Abraham were full of faith in God’s Word; therefore they were faithful to God’s Word. The very word “faithful” means “full of faith.”
God is not impressed with those who boast of themselves and their qualifications or who belittle others. “It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory” (Proverbs 25:27). Actions speak louder than words, and it is better to let one’s works speak for themselves. “Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works” (James 2:18). The rare quality of faithfulness—firm and reliable commitment to one’s convictions and responsibilities, in accordance with God’s Word and God’s leading—is proved in practice rather than proclamation. May God help us to be faithful servants, for “it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). It is quality, not quantity, of service that God measures. Faithfulness—not fruitfulness—is required.
There is one glorious promise regarding faithfulness—not our faithfulness, but the faithfulness of our Savior. “If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself” (2 Timothy 2:13). “For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith [literally, ‘faithfulness’] of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be [found] true, but every man a liar” (Romans 3:3-4). HMM
Stand Fast
“Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold to the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.” (2 Thessalonians 2:15)
Liberals commonly question the authority of the Scriptures on the assumption that they were based on ancient traditions.
However, the word “traditions” itself as used here conveys no such idea. It means simply “that which has been delivered.” Paul used the same word in defining the gospel. “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3). Paul did not add or subtract anything to what he had received directly from God. “For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ” (Galatians 1:12).
He was making the same claim to the Christians at Thessalonica. He had first taught them “by word” when he preached there in person (Acts 17:1-4), then later by “our epistle” in his first letter. Now, in his follow-up letter to them, he was reminding them that, in both instances, he (as an apostle) had communicated to them only those things he had directly received from God by divine revelation. Therefore, it was indeed vital that they should “stand fast, and hold” these great truths “which ye have been taught.” Paul was asserting that God had directly communicated, through him, the new truths that He wanted them to have.
Before the New Testament was written, much had to be conveyed verbally to the early church, through the apostles and prophets. Later, the portions of those teachings that were of permanent application were inscripturated (compare Acts 17:3 with 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The end result of this marvelous process was the inerrant Bible we have today, and it is this completed revelation of God that we must hold fast. HMM
“Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold to the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.” (2 Thessalonians 2:15)
Liberals commonly question the authority of the Scriptures on the assumption that they were based on ancient traditions.
However, the word “traditions” itself as used here conveys no such idea. It means simply “that which has been delivered.” Paul used the same word in defining the gospel. “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3). Paul did not add or subtract anything to what he had received directly from God. “For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ” (Galatians 1:12).
He was making the same claim to the Christians at Thessalonica. He had first taught them “by word” when he preached there in person (Acts 17:1-4), then later by “our epistle” in his first letter. Now, in his follow-up letter to them, he was reminding them that, in both instances, he (as an apostle) had communicated to them only those things he had directly received from God by divine revelation. Therefore, it was indeed vital that they should “stand fast, and hold” these great truths “which ye have been taught.” Paul was asserting that God had directly communicated, through him, the new truths that He wanted them to have.
Before the New Testament was written, much had to be conveyed verbally to the early church, through the apostles and prophets. Later, the portions of those teachings that were of permanent application were inscripturated (compare Acts 17:3 with 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The end result of this marvelous process was the inerrant Bible we have today, and it is this completed revelation of God that we must hold fast. HMM
The Believer's Purpose Galatians 5:13
God has a purpose for your life. If that weren't true, He'd have taken you home to heaven at the moment of salvation. Do you ever wonder why He left you here?
The Lord intends to influence others through you. Our purpose is to be a vessel through which Christ overflows to others--touching those who hurt and desperately need a Savior. Once we are saved, Scripture teaches, our involvement is threefold.
First, we love others. Jesus clearly stated that this was one of the two greatest commandments (Matt. 22:38-39).
Second, we share the good news of salvation (Acts 1:8). Some travel across the world to spread the gospel, while others teach neighbors across the street. The Holy Spirit will direct us to the right people if we are willing to obey.
Third, we serve in a variety of ways, like helping those in need, sharing our resources, and lifting others in prayer. Jesus is our perfect example of all three. His entire life was marked by caring for people--both those who loved Him and those who did not. In fact, the Bible teaches that He humbled Himself and became like us, willing to give up His life for our redemption. There is no greater love; there is no greater act of service.
Scripture clearly defines the believer's purpose. Aligning ourselves with God's intentions for His children--loving others, witnessing, and serving-- bring us great satisfaction. In fact, we're still on earth not merely to hear more teaching but to act on it and share with others what we learn.
The Footprints of Satanby Max Lucado
Once he was approached by a leper, who knelt before him begging his help. “If only you will,” said the man, “you can cleanse me.” In warm indignation Jesus stretched out his hand, [and] touched him.
Mark 1:40–41, NEB
I was in an emergency room late one night last week.
Victims of Satan filled the halls. A child—puffy, swollen eyes. Beaten by her father. A woman—bruised cheeks, bloody nose. “My boyfriend got drunk and hit me,” she said, weeping. An old man—unconscious and drunk on a stretcher. He drooled blood in his sleep.
Jesus saw the victims of Satan, too.
He saw a leper one day … fingers gnarled … skin ulcerated … face disfigured.
And he got indignant … angry.
Not a selfish, violent anger. A holy anger…
a controlled frustration …
a compassionate disgust. And it moved him. It moved him to action.
The Holy Spirit’s Dwelling Place
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Every time the news programs report a story about vandalism at a church, believers cringe. It’s hard for us to bear the thought of anyone spray-painting graffiti on sanctuary walls or damaging the stained glass windows, let alone setting fire to a place of worship. It’s a desecration! The church is a sacred place.
I’m saddened by the fact that many Christians don’t have the same qualms when it comes to harming the temple of the Holy Spirit—their own bodies. Some put junk into their stomachs, their veins, or their lungs. Others wear themselves down under a weight of stress or exhaustion. Some folks justify these abuses as their right: It’s my body, I can do what I want. But that isn't true.
First Corinthians 6 says that believers are the Lord’s possession (v. 19). He has fashioned these earthen vessels to serve Him and carry out the work He’s planned for us to accomplish. God created us with a mind, body, and spirit—of the three aspects, the body is the one that allows us to interact with our environment. People cannot reach their full potential while neglecting the proper care of their bodies. What good are education, talent, and gifts if we’re too tired or sick to complete tasks well?
Here in the world, we can do nothing apart from our physical body. Since it is the only one we’ll have in this life, we should do our best to keep it in good condition. Believersshould also recognize their responsibility to treat the earthly frame like the sacred and special dwelling place that it is.
God has a purpose for your life. If that weren't true, He'd have taken you home to heaven at the moment of salvation. Do you ever wonder why He left you here?
The Lord intends to influence others through you. Our purpose is to be a vessel through which Christ overflows to others--touching those who hurt and desperately need a Savior. Once we are saved, Scripture teaches, our involvement is threefold.
Second, we share the good news of salvation (Acts 1:8). Some travel across the world to spread the gospel, while others teach neighbors across the street. The Holy Spirit will direct us to the right people if we are willing to obey.
Third, we serve in a variety of ways, like helping those in need, sharing our resources, and lifting others in prayer. Jesus is our perfect example of all three. His entire life was marked by caring for people--both those who loved Him and those who did not. In fact, the Bible teaches that He humbled Himself and became like us, willing to give up His life for our redemption. There is no greater love; there is no greater act of service.
Scripture clearly defines the believer's purpose. Aligning ourselves with God's intentions for His children--loving others, witnessing, and serving-- bring us great satisfaction. In fact, we're still on earth not merely to hear more teaching but to act on it and share with others what we learn.
The Footprints of Satanby Max Lucado
Once he was approached by a leper, who knelt before him begging his help. “If only you will,” said the man, “you can cleanse me.” In warm indignation Jesus stretched out his hand, [and] touched him.
Mark 1:40–41, NEB
I was in an emergency room late one night last week.
Victims of Satan filled the halls. A child—puffy, swollen eyes. Beaten by her father. A woman—bruised cheeks, bloody nose. “My boyfriend got drunk and hit me,” she said, weeping. An old man—unconscious and drunk on a stretcher. He drooled blood in his sleep.
Jesus saw the victims of Satan, too.
He saw a leper one day … fingers gnarled … skin ulcerated … face disfigured.
And he got indignant … angry.
Not a selfish, violent anger. A holy anger…
a controlled frustration …
a compassionate disgust. And it moved him. It moved him to action.
The Holy Spirit’s Dwelling Place
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Every time the news programs report a story about vandalism at a church, believers cringe. It’s hard for us to bear the thought of anyone spray-painting graffiti on sanctuary walls or damaging the stained glass windows, let alone setting fire to a place of worship. It’s a desecration! The church is a sacred place.
First Corinthians 6 says that believers are the Lord’s possession (v. 19). He has fashioned these earthen vessels to serve Him and carry out the work He’s planned for us to accomplish. God created us with a mind, body, and spirit—of the three aspects, the body is the one that allows us to interact with our environment. People cannot reach their full potential while neglecting the proper care of their bodies. What good are education, talent, and gifts if we’re too tired or sick to complete tasks well?
Here in the world, we can do nothing apart from our physical body. Since it is the only one we’ll have in this life, we should do our best to keep it in good condition. Believersshould also recognize their responsibility to treat the earthly frame like the sacred and special dwelling place that it is.
The Pathway of Spiritual Growth Romans 8:29
God predestined us to grow into His likeness, but this doesn't happen at the moment we are saved. While we are redeemed by the Savior's precious blood and immediately have a new heart, our transformation is a lifelong process.
The Holy Spirit enables this journey. Growth is impossible without Him, regardless of our efforts. Yet we can welcome or hinder His transforming hand.
One way we give God willing access to our lives is by obeying this mandate in Romans 12:2: "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..."
Everyone chooses either a biblical or worldly philosophy as his or her source of truth--and that choice shapes the mind and spirit. Therefore, the Lord tells us to immerse our mind in Scripture, allowing Him to mold us into His beautiful image.
The Bible story about the Israelites wandering in the wilderness illustrates this principle. After saving them from Pharaoh's abuse, God did not bring them immediately to the Promised Land. The Lord knew doing so would bring sinful ways with them. Instead, He led them to the wilderness and gave the Ten Commandments. Only after they learned to obey and turn to almighty God were they ready for the next step.
The process of sanctification isn't always pleasant. In fact, it's often painful for us, just as it was for the Israelites. In God's amazing wisdom and love, however, He knows what we need to leave our old ways that lead to death. And He builds new character in us--full of life and joy.
God predestined us to grow into His likeness, but this doesn't happen at the moment we are saved. While we are redeemed by the Savior's precious blood and immediately have a new heart, our transformation is a lifelong process.
The Holy Spirit enables this journey. Growth is impossible without Him, regardless of our efforts. Yet we can welcome or hinder His transforming hand.
Everyone chooses either a biblical or worldly philosophy as his or her source of truth--and that choice shapes the mind and spirit. Therefore, the Lord tells us to immerse our mind in Scripture, allowing Him to mold us into His beautiful image.
The Bible story about the Israelites wandering in the wilderness illustrates this principle. After saving them from Pharaoh's abuse, God did not bring them immediately to the Promised Land. The Lord knew doing so would bring sinful ways with them. Instead, He led them to the wilderness and gave the Ten Commandments. Only after they learned to obey and turn to almighty God were they ready for the next step.
The process of sanctification isn't always pleasant. In fact, it's often painful for us, just as it was for the Israelites. In God's amazing wisdom and love, however, He knows what we need to leave our old ways that lead to death. And He builds new character in us--full of life and joy.
A friend wrote me and asked a question about Isaiah 65:17, which says (in the NASB), “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former things will not be remembered or come to mind.” He asked, “Do you think this verse means that when we go to Heaven, there will be absolutely no memory of the former Heavens and Earth? If so, do you think this could also mean that all remembrances of this life will go away?”
No, this verse does not mean there are no memories at all in heaven and in the age to come. Two reasons:
1) Notice the parallel between "former things" in verse 17 and "former troubles" in verse 16. Verse 16 says, “He who blesses himself in the land shall bless himself by the God of truth, and he who takes an oath in the land shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten and are hidden from my eyes.” The close parallel between “former troubles” in verse 16 and “former things” in verse 17 make me think that “former things” does not mean all things, but things that, if we remembered them would trouble us. And we will not be troubled in the age to come. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
2) The book of Revelation says that in heaven we will sing the song of the Lamb and of Moses (Revelation 15:3), which is a song about past history. So if we are going to sing about the great works of God in history we can’t forget them.
But here’s a catch. The crucifixion of the Lamb was one of the troubles of the world. It was horrific. So it seems to be in the class of things that should be remembered no more—it was so full of pain.
So my conclusion is: What we will forget and what we will remember is not a simple class of bad and good. Rather we will forget and remember things in accord with what will maximize our enjoyment of God. If remembering something enhances our worship, we will remember it. If it would hinder our worship we will forget it.
As an analogy consider this. In Philippians 3:13-14 Paul says, “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” So Paul seems to commend “forgetting” the past. But in Ephesians 2:11-12 he says, “Remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh... were at that time separated from Christ.”
So again, as I try to discern what should be remembered and what should be forgotten, I answer: Remember whatever deepens your love to Christ and zeal to obey, and forget whatever would paralyze your will to follow him with joy.
The Secret to a Worry-Free Life - by Greg Laurie - www.harvest.org
�For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.� (Hebrews 4:15-16)
The Lord Jesus Christ is able to help in every time of need for two reasons. First, as the Creator, He is fully able to do anything. Secondly, He has solved, once and for all, the dilemma of the sin that had separated us from God�s holiness, by paying the price Himself for our salvation.
To do that, He had to become man so that He could first overcome temptations such as those to which we succumb. He could not pay the price for man�s sin if He were not a man, nor could He pay it if He were a sinner. He must be a man, but a sinless man�a criterion no other man could satisfy.
Therefore, He was tempted in all points as we are. This does not mean, however, that He felt a real inward temptation to sin. He was �tested� under the most extreme circumstances to which humans could be subjected, and He always passed the test. He could never have failed, because He is also God, but now all men, and angels, and devils know that He cannot fail.
Thus, He fully understands every one of our needs, and He is indeed able and willing to help. As we come boldly to receive His amazing grace, we must first �obtain mercy� (v. 16), confessing and receiving forgiveness for our sins (1 John 1:9). Then, we are ready to boldly request grace to help in every other need. Our faithful High Priest has been there before us. He knows (not just �knows about�) our problems, and is always there to help, waiting for us to come. Since �he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted,� and can �save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him� (Hebrews 2:18; 7:25). HMM
A Reason Not to Fear - by Greg Laurie -
No, this verse does not mean there are no memories at all in heaven and in the age to come. Two reasons:
1) Notice the parallel between "former things" in verse 17 and "former troubles" in verse 16. Verse 16 says, “He who blesses himself in the land shall bless himself by the God of truth, and he who takes an oath in the land shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten and are hidden from my eyes.” The close parallel between “former troubles” in verse 16 and “former things” in verse 17 make me think that “former things” does not mean all things, but things that, if we remembered them would trouble us. And we will not be troubled in the age to come. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
But here’s a catch. The crucifixion of the Lamb was one of the troubles of the world. It was horrific. So it seems to be in the class of things that should be remembered no more—it was so full of pain.
So my conclusion is: What we will forget and what we will remember is not a simple class of bad and good. Rather we will forget and remember things in accord with what will maximize our enjoyment of God. If remembering something enhances our worship, we will remember it. If it would hinder our worship we will forget it.
As an analogy consider this. In Philippians 3:13-14 Paul says, “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” So Paul seems to commend “forgetting” the past. But in Ephesians 2:11-12 he says, “Remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh... were at that time separated from Christ.”
So again, as I try to discern what should be remembered and what should be forgotten, I answer: Remember whatever deepens your love to Christ and zeal to obey, and forget whatever would paralyze your will to follow him with joy.
The Secret to a Worry-Free Life - by Greg Laurie - www.harvest.org
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. - Matthew 6:33
There are many things you can seek to live for in life. You can live for a lot of things. You can live for your physical appearance. You can live for a successful career. You can live for pleasure. But here is what Jesus said: "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need" (Matthew 6:33 NLT).
With those words, Jesus gave us the secret to living a worry-free life: Instead of worry, put God and His will first in your life. Among a number of options, put God in the number one position.
Let's take your career for example. Is your career choice, your line of work, really for God's glory? Are you seeking Him first in what you're doing?
You might say, "Greg, you're a pastor. It's easy for you to seek God first. I work in the real world with real people."
I understand. But here is what your goal should be: to honor God in everything you do. Here is what you need to ask yourself: "As I'm doing this thing, what is my goal?" If your goal is just to make money no matter what it takes, you have the wrong goal. Your goal should be to honor God, give honest work, and have personal integrity and a good testimony in the workplace.
When the day is done, you want to have a good name and a good reputation. Proverbs 22:1 says, "Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold" (NLT).
Seek first the kingdom of God. If you want a life free of worry, anxiety, and fear, then put God's kingdom before everything else. Seek Him first, and He will take care of you.
Our Defense against Worry - by Greg Laurie - www.harvest.org
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:7
We live in such a stress-filled society today. We could write these words on the tombstones of many Americans: Hurried, worried, buried. We're constantly in motion, going from one thing to another, from one worry to another. We can get so stressed out that we're almost immobilized. Sometimes worry can absolutely paralyze a person's life.
But as my friend Max Lucado has said, "Your anxiety decreases as your understanding of your Father increases." That is really the heart of the matter.
On July 24, 2008, my wife and I heard the news that no parent ever wants to hear. We found out that our son had suddenly left us for Heaven. Anxiety, panic, worry, and fear all crashed in at the same time. And as I bent beneath the weight of it, I honestly wondered if I could survive such a thing. As a pastor, I had spoken with people over the years who had lost children, but when it happened to me, I honestly wondered if I could handle it.
But God was there for me. And one of the reasons I have continued to preach since that day is because of that, because God was there. If the Lord had not come through for me on that day, I would have given up preaching. But He did come through for me.
I'm not saying it has been easy. We still miss our son, of course, and we still feel deep pain. But we have found the truth of Philippians 4:6-7: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (NKJV).
Apply this truth, and turn your worries into prayers.
The Throne of Grace�For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.� (Hebrews 4:15-16)
The Lord Jesus Christ is able to help in every time of need for two reasons. First, as the Creator, He is fully able to do anything. Secondly, He has solved, once and for all, the dilemma of the sin that had separated us from God�s holiness, by paying the price Himself for our salvation.
To do that, He had to become man so that He could first overcome temptations such as those to which we succumb. He could not pay the price for man�s sin if He were not a man, nor could He pay it if He were a sinner. He must be a man, but a sinless man�a criterion no other man could satisfy.
Therefore, He was tempted in all points as we are. This does not mean, however, that He felt a real inward temptation to sin. He was �tested� under the most extreme circumstances to which humans could be subjected, and He always passed the test. He could never have failed, because He is also God, but now all men, and angels, and devils know that He cannot fail.
Thus, He fully understands every one of our needs, and He is indeed able and willing to help. As we come boldly to receive His amazing grace, we must first �obtain mercy� (v. 16), confessing and receiving forgiveness for our sins (1 John 1:9). Then, we are ready to boldly request grace to help in every other need. Our faithful High Priest has been there before us. He knows (not just �knows about�) our problems, and is always there to help, waiting for us to come. Since �he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted,� and can �save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him� (Hebrews 2:18; 7:25). HMM
A Reason Not to Fear - by Greg Laurie -
People are born for trouble as readily as sparks fly up from a fire. - Job 5:7
In the months following September 11, 2001, as many as 400,000 New Yorkers suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder or depression. Drug use, both legal and illegal, and alcohol use went up dramatically after that horrific day. It's because people were afraid. And they had good reason to be.
John 14 tells us of a time when the disciples were afraid. Jesus had dropped a bombshell on them. He said something that turned their world, as they knew it, upside down.
Then He went on to share some words to bring calm to their troubled hearts: "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me" (John 14:1 NLT). He didn't say, "Mull over your problems." Rather, He said, "Don't be troubled."
Life is filled with trouble. It seems as though once you have one problem resolved, three more take its place. As Job 5:7 says, "People are born for trouble as readily as sparks fly up from a fire" (NLT). From the moment we come into this life, there are all kinds of troubles.
While there are reasons to be troubled, there is a greater reason not to be: We know Jesus. He said to His disciples, "Trust in God, and trust also in me" (John 14:1 NLT). In other words, "I haven't brought you this far to abandon you now. I know what I'm doing. Believe."
There are times in our lives when things happen that we just don't understand. When I don't understand something about God, I try to always fall back on what I do understand: I do understand that God loves me. I do understand that He is looking out for me with my best interests in mind. And I do understand that no matter what happens, He will get me through.
The Trap of Discouragement Habakkuk 1:2
Do you feel stuck in discouragement? If so, you are not alone.
At some point everyone experiences dashed hopes. Disappointment�an emotional response to a failed expectation�is the normal initial reaction. But allowed to linger, it can turn into discouragement, which hovers like a dense cloud. When that�s the case, there is no sense of joy or contentment, no matter what you do.
The circumstances that trigger these emotions may be unavoidable, but the way we respond is a choice. We can either let sadness overwhelm our souls or face the situation with courage and bring it before the One who can help us.
Living in discouragement will divide the mind, making it hard to focus on anything besides our pain. Then as anger becomes habitual, we�ll look for someone to blame�whether God, people around us, or ourself.
Frustration that isn�t handled well may develop into depression, which in turn can estrange us from others�people do not enjoy the company of someone who�s bitter and defeated. This isolation leads to a low self-esteem. Finally, in a fog of discouragement, we can make poor decisions based on crushed emotions instead of truth. Obviously, choosing this self-destructive path is not God�s best for our lives.
Though we�ll all face disappointment from time to time, believers are not to wallow in it. Instead, God wants us to trust Him with everything�even our unmet expectations and deepest sadnesses. Remember, there is divine purpose for everything He allows to touch His children�s lives (Rom. 8:28).
Breaking Down the Faith Barrier
Exodus 4:1-13
A faith barrier is made up of attitudes that short-circuit our trust and prevent us from obeying the Lord's will. A negative self-image can hinder us in this way, as can ignorance of God's character and promises. Three other attitudes can also trip us up: doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and fear of failure.
Moses doubted that the Israelites would believe he had been chosen by the Lord to lead them. But God graciously provided reassurance--in the form of evidence that He could accomplish everything He'd promised (Ex. 4:1-5). When doubt invades our minds, it can be overcome with diligent study of Scripture and persistent prayer, which will dislodge uncertainty and replace it with biblical truth.
Moses wasn't eloquent, and a perceived lack of skill left him feeling inadequate for the job--he was afraid trying to speak would make him stumble. God patiently reassured him of divine help in that task. The Lord often chooses unlikely people to carry out His plan because He looks at the heart, not human qualifications (1 Sam. 16:7). He can overcome all our inadequacies.
Sadly, Moses did not embrace what God promised but instead asked to be relieved of the assignment. A fear of failure can prevent us from saying yes to the Lord.
Carrying out God's will requires a heart that trusts Him, a soul that steps out in obedience, and a mind that leaves success or failure to Him. As we break down the faith barrier, we will be able to see the evidence of God's presence and power--and experience the joy of obedience.
The World, the Flesh, and the Devil
�This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.� (James 3:15)
True wisdom is �from above� and is �pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy� (v. 17). False wisdom, on the other hand, may come from the world outside us (�earthly�), the flesh within us (�sensual�), or the powers of darkness tempting us (�devilish�). All such wisdom leads to �envying and strife . . . confusion and every evil work� (v. 16). Believers, therefore, should be able to recognize the influences of the world, the flesh, and the devil.
The good news is that each divine Person of the triune Godhead is on our side. The Father is opposed to the world, the Spirit to the flesh, and the Son to the devil, and they are well able to give victory.
�If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. . . . And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof� (1 John 2:15, 17). Thus, to overcome the love of the world, we must cultivate the love of the Father in our hearts and lives.
Similarly, to overcome the desires of the flesh, we should follow the leadings and convictions of the Holy Spirit, �for the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other� (Galatians 5:17). Therefore, �walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh� (v. 16).
The devil and his evil hosts use their own dark powers to tempt and destroy the people of God, but �for this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil� (1 John 3:8). Christ assured Satan�s defeat when He paid for our redemption on the cross. �And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it� (Colossians 2:15). HMM
A Better World Ahead - by Greg Laurie - www.harvest.orgDo you feel stuck in discouragement? If so, you are not alone.
At some point everyone experiences dashed hopes. Disappointment�an emotional response to a failed expectation�is the normal initial reaction. But allowed to linger, it can turn into discouragement, which hovers like a dense cloud. When that�s the case, there is no sense of joy or contentment, no matter what you do.
Living in discouragement will divide the mind, making it hard to focus on anything besides our pain. Then as anger becomes habitual, we�ll look for someone to blame�whether God, people around us, or ourself.
Frustration that isn�t handled well may develop into depression, which in turn can estrange us from others�people do not enjoy the company of someone who�s bitter and defeated. This isolation leads to a low self-esteem. Finally, in a fog of discouragement, we can make poor decisions based on crushed emotions instead of truth. Obviously, choosing this self-destructive path is not God�s best for our lives.
Though we�ll all face disappointment from time to time, believers are not to wallow in it. Instead, God wants us to trust Him with everything�even our unmet expectations and deepest sadnesses. Remember, there is divine purpose for everything He allows to touch His children�s lives (Rom. 8:28).
Breaking Down the Faith Barrier
Exodus 4:1-13
A faith barrier is made up of attitudes that short-circuit our trust and prevent us from obeying the Lord's will. A negative self-image can hinder us in this way, as can ignorance of God's character and promises. Three other attitudes can also trip us up: doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and fear of failure.
Moses doubted that the Israelites would believe he had been chosen by the Lord to lead them. But God graciously provided reassurance--in the form of evidence that He could accomplish everything He'd promised (Ex. 4:1-5). When doubt invades our minds, it can be overcome with diligent study of Scripture and persistent prayer, which will dislodge uncertainty and replace it with biblical truth.
Sadly, Moses did not embrace what God promised but instead asked to be relieved of the assignment. A fear of failure can prevent us from saying yes to the Lord.
Carrying out God's will requires a heart that trusts Him, a soul that steps out in obedience, and a mind that leaves success or failure to Him. As we break down the faith barrier, we will be able to see the evidence of God's presence and power--and experience the joy of obedience.
The World, the Flesh, and the Devil
�This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.� (James 3:15)
True wisdom is �from above� and is �pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy� (v. 17). False wisdom, on the other hand, may come from the world outside us (�earthly�), the flesh within us (�sensual�), or the powers of darkness tempting us (�devilish�). All such wisdom leads to �envying and strife . . . confusion and every evil work� (v. 16). Believers, therefore, should be able to recognize the influences of the world, the flesh, and the devil.
The good news is that each divine Person of the triune Godhead is on our side. The Father is opposed to the world, the Spirit to the flesh, and the Son to the devil, and they are well able to give victory.
�If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. . . . And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof� (1 John 2:15, 17). Thus, to overcome the love of the world, we must cultivate the love of the Father in our hearts and lives.
Similarly, to overcome the desires of the flesh, we should follow the leadings and convictions of the Holy Spirit, �for the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other� (Galatians 5:17). Therefore, �walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh� (v. 16).
The devil and his evil hosts use their own dark powers to tempt and destroy the people of God, but �for this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil� (1 John 3:8). Christ assured Satan�s defeat when He paid for our redemption on the cross. �And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it� (Colossians 2:15). HMM
For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! - 2 Corinthians 4:17
Deep inside us, there is a sense of something more in life that drives us on. No matter what experiences you've had, no matter how wonderful they were, they were just a glimpse of what is still ahead. You are really homesick for a place you have never been before, and that place is Heaven. You were wired this way.
The Bible says that God has put eternity in our hearts (see Ecclesiastes 3:11). This simply means there is a sense inside of us that there is more to life. That is what keeps us moving forward.
It is sort of like the homing instinct we see in the animal kingdom, like the salmon making their way upstream with such determination. We see it in the way the swallows return every year to San Juan Capistrano. It's a homing instinct that drives them.
We have the same thing, but it is a homing instinct for a place we haven't seen yet. It is a homesickness for Heaven. Until that day, there is nothing that will completely satisfy our lives. No matter what happens to us on Earth, it pales in comparison to this great hope.
The apostle Paul wrote, "For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever" (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT).
This is the hope of the Christian-the hope of a place called Heaven. There is a better world ahead. There is something greater than what we're experiencing now.
Godless Religion
�Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.� (2 Timothy 3:5)
Included in Paul�s graphic description of the �perilous� characteristics of the �last days� (not the church age, since the prophesied last days were still future when he wrote of them in his last epistle, 2 Timothy 3:1-3) is this warning concerning the religious leaders of the last days. They would observe the outward form (church buildings, sacraments, religious services, etc.) of �godliness� (that is, �religion�), but would reject its supernatural aspects. They would desire the trappings of religious professionalism since they would be �lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God� (v. 4).
Such specifications aptly describe the modern world of scientism and liberal theology, which pervades practically all religious denominations and overlaps with all kinds of liberal social movements (women�s liberation, gay rights, �New Age� pantheism, and others). Although these are widely diverse in structure and purpose, they all share one vital feature in common: They reject supernatural Christianity, especially literal creationism. Many liberal preachers give nominal allegiance to the teachings of Christ and the Bible, but they invariably deny the mighty power of God in special creation, as well as the great worldwide miracles of the Bible�the Flood, the dispersion, etc.
This prophecy is not given in Scripture simply as a matter of information. It contains a warning urgently needed by Bible-believing Christians who are under pressure today to compromise with humanistic liberals on this great doctrine of God�s creative power. Many have accepted the evolutionary system of �ages geology,� and this is tragic and dangerous. Instead of compromising with evolutionary naturalists and religious liberals, as many evangelicals today are inclined to do, Paul warns: �From such turn away!� HMM
�Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.� (2 Timothy 3:5)
Included in Paul�s graphic description of the �perilous� characteristics of the �last days� (not the church age, since the prophesied last days were still future when he wrote of them in his last epistle, 2 Timothy 3:1-3) is this warning concerning the religious leaders of the last days. They would observe the outward form (church buildings, sacraments, religious services, etc.) of �godliness� (that is, �religion�), but would reject its supernatural aspects. They would desire the trappings of religious professionalism since they would be �lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God� (v. 4).
Such specifications aptly describe the modern world of scientism and liberal theology, which pervades practically all religious denominations and overlaps with all kinds of liberal social movements (women�s liberation, gay rights, �New Age� pantheism, and others). Although these are widely diverse in structure and purpose, they all share one vital feature in common: They reject supernatural Christianity, especially literal creationism. Many liberal preachers give nominal allegiance to the teachings of Christ and the Bible, but they invariably deny the mighty power of God in special creation, as well as the great worldwide miracles of the Bible�the Flood, the dispersion, etc.
This prophecy is not given in Scripture simply as a matter of information. It contains a warning urgently needed by Bible-believing Christians who are under pressure today to compromise with humanistic liberals on this great doctrine of God�s creative power. Many have accepted the evolutionary system of �ages geology,� and this is tragic and dangerous. Instead of compromising with evolutionary naturalists and religious liberals, as many evangelicals today are inclined to do, Paul warns: �From such turn away!� HMM
In God's Hands - by Greg Laurie -
Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. - Matthew 10:28
I always laugh when I hear people say, "When I get to Heaven, I have a few questions I want to ask God." In all fairness, there are questions in life: Why did God allow this tragedy? Why did He allow that to happen?
But I believe that one second after we get to Heaven, we won't care about those questions anymore. We will see God for who He is, and everything else will come into its proper focus.
Right now, our understanding is limited; it is very finite. God's wisdom, however, is incredibly infinite and great. The Bible says, "Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely" (1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT).
Heaven will be greater than anything we've ever imagined. We can take the most wonderful thing we've ever experienced in life, multiply it a million times, and we'll get just a glimpse of what Heaven will be like. And the good news is that it will last forever and ever.
With this in mind, let's think about what we're really afraid of. Let's take the most frightening scenario imaginable. What is it? The worst scenario isn't dying. The worst scenario is dying without Jesus. That is the worst scenario. That is the sum of all fears.
Jesus said, "Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matthew 10:28 NLT). If you are trusting in Christ, don't be afraid. To live is Christ and to die is gain. Our lives are in God's hands.
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