“But if not...we will not.” This great statement of faith was made by the three Hebrew children to Nebuchadnezzar concerning the fiery furnace into which they were soon to be cast. It came on the heels of their declaration to this potentate of God’s ability to deliver them, “our God...is able to…and he will.”
But then follows the most God-honoring, devil-defying testimonial of true faith found anywhere in the Holy Writ. After making the assertion that God was able, and that they believed He would deliver them, this glorious proclamation is made. If God saw fit to allow this dreaded thing to come to pass in their lives, they would still love and serve Him. They would never bow the knee in surrender to the suggestion that He is anything but a Good, and Loving God!
For most of us the prayer of Gethsemane is the only model. Removing mountains can wait. C.S. Lewis
Feb 18, 2010
Feb 16, 2010
*Riding Trains
As a young man in service and afterward, I rode trains to get to distant destinations. In many of the coaches the seats faced each other. I always chose the seat with my back toward the way we were traveling. The only thing wrong with that was that I could only see the past. I find many Christians have chosen to travel through life the same way. This type of person only gets a quick, passing glance at things; a fleeting glimpse of what others enjoyed in its entirety.
I’ve observed people who look forward in life delight in it much more than those who are always looking to their past. Yesterday’s manna always spoils today, no matter how good it may have been then. The old missionary said, “My future is as bright as the promises of God.” A promise has to do with the future, not the past. Living in the past keeps one from looking forward to the future. Paul’s secret to a successful life was, “…forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.”
Remember, if you belong to God, the best is yet to come!
I’ve observed people who look forward in life delight in it much more than those who are always looking to their past. Yesterday’s manna always spoils today, no matter how good it may have been then. The old missionary said, “My future is as bright as the promises of God.” A promise has to do with the future, not the past. Living in the past keeps one from looking forward to the future. Paul’s secret to a successful life was, “…forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.”
Remember, if you belong to God, the best is yet to come!
Feb 11, 2010
Stop Blaming Yourself
God’s people are likened to a vineyard in both Testaments. In Isaiah chapter five verse four, He says, “What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it?” In verse three, He calls upon His people to judge for themselves if this were not true. In spite of Him doing all He could to make them holy and happy, by taking obstacles out of the way (v.2), they still persisted in their “wild” living (vv. 2 and 4). As a result, God’s wall of protection was taken from them (v5). Read the entire chapter to see the pitiful plight of those who had it all, only to lose it by going their own way and doing their own thing.
This parable shows that even God can do only so much in His child’s life, and then the rest is up to them; after that, they’re responsible. The blame lies at their door. Or as God told Cain concerning his wicked actions, “Sin lieth at the door.” It stopped at his doorstep. And so it does in every adult child’s life.
No Christian parent need feel guilty (sad, maybe), over grown children who have gone against a godly bringing up. When a mother or father can truthful say that they did all they knew to do in the matter of rearing their children, then that is all you can do. So says the Lord! In Isaiah chapter one, God says, “I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.” I guess it’s not hard to find an excuse for a sinful and rebellious lifestyle if you’re looking for one, even if it is against God Almighty!
This parable shows that even God can do only so much in His child’s life, and then the rest is up to them; after that, they’re responsible. The blame lies at their door. Or as God told Cain concerning his wicked actions, “Sin lieth at the door.” It stopped at his doorstep. And so it does in every adult child’s life.
No Christian parent need feel guilty (sad, maybe), over grown children who have gone against a godly bringing up. When a mother or father can truthful say that they did all they knew to do in the matter of rearing their children, then that is all you can do. So says the Lord! In Isaiah chapter one, God says, “I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.” I guess it’s not hard to find an excuse for a sinful and rebellious lifestyle if you’re looking for one, even if it is against God Almighty!
Feb 9, 2010
Misplaced Loyalty
The saying, “They’re loyal to a fault,” sounds good on the surface; but a deeper probing will show the malignancy of this. Such people are taking loyalty to the extreme and will find in the end, it generally causes more harm than good. To be sure, these people fall under the category of having “misplaced loyalties.”
When loved ones and friends can do no wrong in our sight, we need a second touch from the Lord (Mk.8:23-25). We can’t get away with using the worn out quip, “Love’s blind,” as our excuse for not seeing their defect. As Dr. Bob Jones Sr. said, “Love is not blind, it just refuses to see.” Principles always trump personalities. And that includes everyone from our favorite Guru to darling Grandpa.
Paul tells us only Spiritual people are to deal with those who have, more or less, been “run over,” so to speak, by a fault in their life. Carnal sentimentality will close its eyes to others’ sad condition under the guise of compassion. Had someone called attention to the butler’s fault of his short memory, no doubt Joseph would not have had to spend those two extra, miserable years in confinement.(Gen.40:23;41:1a, 9).
Our loyalty is due not to our species but to God. (C.S. Lewis)
When loved ones and friends can do no wrong in our sight, we need a second touch from the Lord (Mk.8:23-25). We can’t get away with using the worn out quip, “Love’s blind,” as our excuse for not seeing their defect. As Dr. Bob Jones Sr. said, “Love is not blind, it just refuses to see.” Principles always trump personalities. And that includes everyone from our favorite Guru to darling Grandpa.
Paul tells us only Spiritual people are to deal with those who have, more or less, been “run over,” so to speak, by a fault in their life. Carnal sentimentality will close its eyes to others’ sad condition under the guise of compassion. Had someone called attention to the butler’s fault of his short memory, no doubt Joseph would not have had to spend those two extra, miserable years in confinement.(Gen.40:23;41:1a, 9).
Our loyalty is due not to our species but to God. (C.S. Lewis)
Feb 8, 2010
The Oblivious Ostriches
The English language is very rich and descriptive. Someone “hiding their head in the sand, like an ostrich” is said to be foolishly ignoring their problem, while hoping it will magically vanish. If this is not picturesque of today’s professing Christians, I don’t know what is. Closing one’s eyes to a problem does not void the problem.
The dilemma I speak of is unanswered prayer. It seems few, if any, are willing to tackle this unmentionable and embarrassing topic today. I most certainly understand prayer is not a magic wand we can wave around at our fancy. Nor do I believe it is like a genie in a bottle to be at my beacon call to fulfill all my fleshly wishes. But God does promise to answer “Big” prayers (Jer.33:3), and we don’t see much of that today, if any! Could Solomon be giving the Church the reason the heavens are brass to it, when he mentions in his prayer to God, “When the heaven is shut up…because they have sinned against thee”? Do you think maybe the whole Church needs to repent? If so, who’s going to go first?
In my opinion, the Church of today is play acting in prayer. Jesus refers to them as people who “for a pretense make…prayers.” I’m speaking of that kind of prayer old Dr. Bob Jones Sr. used to define as real prayer. He said, if he were in a room, with the doors and windows all being locked from the inside, and he prayed and said, “I sure wish I had a sandwich,” and all of a sudden one was in his hand, he’d be a fool not to realize there was an unseen, supernatural presence there with him (Matt.6:6).
When’s the last time any of us made a request that went only from our lips to God’s ear, and we got a Big Mac?
The dilemma I speak of is unanswered prayer. It seems few, if any, are willing to tackle this unmentionable and embarrassing topic today. I most certainly understand prayer is not a magic wand we can wave around at our fancy. Nor do I believe it is like a genie in a bottle to be at my beacon call to fulfill all my fleshly wishes. But God does promise to answer “Big” prayers (Jer.33:3), and we don’t see much of that today, if any! Could Solomon be giving the Church the reason the heavens are brass to it, when he mentions in his prayer to God, “When the heaven is shut up…because they have sinned against thee”? Do you think maybe the whole Church needs to repent? If so, who’s going to go first?
In my opinion, the Church of today is play acting in prayer. Jesus refers to them as people who “for a pretense make…prayers.” I’m speaking of that kind of prayer old Dr. Bob Jones Sr. used to define as real prayer. He said, if he were in a room, with the doors and windows all being locked from the inside, and he prayed and said, “I sure wish I had a sandwich,” and all of a sudden one was in his hand, he’d be a fool not to realize there was an unseen, supernatural presence there with him (Matt.6:6).
When’s the last time any of us made a request that went only from our lips to God’s ear, and we got a Big Mac?
Feb 7, 2010
When Off the Plantation
One evening years ago, as a young evangelist, after speaking to a rather large assembly, I was invited to the pastor’s home. He (as I at the time) was associated with an extreme, separatist movement. As the evening wore on the conversation became less general and more personal. It was then he revealed that when visiting New York he would go to see some of the Broadway plays. He went on to say how much he and his wife enjoyed them, and how refreshed they both were upon returning home to Indiana.
Now I have no problem with seeing a good play. I’d like to go myself if I ever visit the “Big Apple.” But I do find disturbing the fact that one who has entered into the glorious liberty that is in Christ Jesus would hide it from others who are living miserable lives in bondage. As they used to say when I was a boy, “What’s good for the goose, is good for the gander.” Many of us are like Peter; we like the Kentucky fried chicken and ham, but go back to the rigid, man-made rules of the legalists once they cast their shadow over us again. You know, the fear of man, and that sort of thing.
Paul said he rebuked Peter (Gal.2:14, context) for his actions, because he was to blame. And so are we, if we allow others to believe we are fellow slaves, but exercise and enjoy liberty when we are off the plantation.
Now I have no problem with seeing a good play. I’d like to go myself if I ever visit the “Big Apple.” But I do find disturbing the fact that one who has entered into the glorious liberty that is in Christ Jesus would hide it from others who are living miserable lives in bondage. As they used to say when I was a boy, “What’s good for the goose, is good for the gander.” Many of us are like Peter; we like the Kentucky fried chicken and ham, but go back to the rigid, man-made rules of the legalists once they cast their shadow over us again. You know, the fear of man, and that sort of thing.
Paul said he rebuked Peter (Gal.2:14, context) for his actions, because he was to blame. And so are we, if we allow others to believe we are fellow slaves, but exercise and enjoy liberty when we are off the plantation.
Feb 4, 2010
*Going in Circles
It goes without argument; those who go in circles never get anywhere. You’re always meeting yourself coming. And the landscape is the same-old, same-old. Merry-go-rounds can be monotonous, plus you always get off where you got on. Israel spent forty years proving all this to be so.
The above facts are also true when it comes to the Bible. Some spend their lives searching for new scriptures to place into old chiseled grooves they have whittled out on their proof-text wheels. Their lives consist of looking for texts that uphold their old, worn out, man-made dogmas. If it doesn’t fit into their self-made pigeon-holes, it’s of no use to them. This type never has fresh bread but is always serving up the moldy stuff.
But truth is not circular; it is linear. It’s eternal and continuous, not spherical. There is no growth spiritually or intellectually inside a cylinder!
The above facts are also true when it comes to the Bible. Some spend their lives searching for new scriptures to place into old chiseled grooves they have whittled out on their proof-text wheels. Their lives consist of looking for texts that uphold their old, worn out, man-made dogmas. If it doesn’t fit into their self-made pigeon-holes, it’s of no use to them. This type never has fresh bread but is always serving up the moldy stuff.
But truth is not circular; it is linear. It’s eternal and continuous, not spherical. There is no growth spiritually or intellectually inside a cylinder!
Feb 3, 2010
People Do Change
People do change. This is especially true of Christians who grow in the Lord. Yet, there are some who find it difficult to acknowledge this. This lack of perception is usually to be found in an offended believer, who has supposedly been hurt by one who has matured since the incident occurred.
The offending party’s change will never be seen or accepted by the wounded one as long as bitterness is allowed to fester. Change cannot be seen by the latter, because the individual has not changed themselves. Such people have remained where they were without ever moving on. The irony of it all is that while the one grows and goes on with his or her own life, the other remains a spiritual pygmy.
Jacob had trouble believing there was a change in Esau. It was only after Jacob was changed that he realized his brother was not the same as he had been in the past. Let’s allow in others what we desire for ourselves; the ability to change for the better.
God grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one I can, and the wisdom to know it's me. ~Author Unknown
The offending party’s change will never be seen or accepted by the wounded one as long as bitterness is allowed to fester. Change cannot be seen by the latter, because the individual has not changed themselves. Such people have remained where they were without ever moving on. The irony of it all is that while the one grows and goes on with his or her own life, the other remains a spiritual pygmy.
Jacob had trouble believing there was a change in Esau. It was only after Jacob was changed that he realized his brother was not the same as he had been in the past. Let’s allow in others what we desire for ourselves; the ability to change for the better.
God grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one I can, and the wisdom to know it's me. ~Author Unknown
Feb 1, 2010
Context is Everything
The first rule you teach a new Christian about Bible study is that context is everything; that is, if one is to properly interpret the scriptures. Sad to say, many are not taught this most important truth about life. Life also is to be interpreted in its context, if we are to understand its meaning. The word interpret comes from the Latin, and means, “to weave together.” You know, like Romans eight twenty eight tells us.
When interpreting life, it’s dangerous to divorce individual events and incidents from their over-all setting. If we do, we will turn exceptions into rules, the temporal into the permanent, the fanciful into reality, and fiction into fact. We are told, as long as the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night, will also. But no one of these is life as a whole; they are only parts of it, making up the whole.
And so, whether our lot is joy or sadness, little or much, sickness or health, victory or defeat, let us remind ourselves that like the seasons, each will change, giving way to the other. Life is always changing. Only God is unchangeable! Therefore, when attempting to understand life, don’t take things out of their context. And remember, God is not part of that context, He is the context. Or as the Apostle tells us, “He is our life.”
When interpreting life, it’s dangerous to divorce individual events and incidents from their over-all setting. If we do, we will turn exceptions into rules, the temporal into the permanent, the fanciful into reality, and fiction into fact. We are told, as long as the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night, will also. But no one of these is life as a whole; they are only parts of it, making up the whole.
And so, whether our lot is joy or sadness, little or much, sickness or health, victory or defeat, let us remind ourselves that like the seasons, each will change, giving way to the other. Life is always changing. Only God is unchangeable! Therefore, when attempting to understand life, don’t take things out of their context. And remember, God is not part of that context, He is the context. Or as the Apostle tells us, “He is our life.”
Jan 30, 2010
*Blessed Forever
“Thou blessest, O Lord, and it shall be blessed forever.” What God hath blessed, no man can “un-bless.” Even the hireling prophet, Balaam, knew this. When called upon by Balak to curse God’s people, he said “He hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it.” We do no injustice in applying Isaac’s words concerning Jacob to our Lord, “I have…blessed him…and he shall be blessed.”
This being true, why do so many Christian’s live lives in seeming bereavement, rather than blessing? One word is the answer: “Appropriation.” It means, “To take for one’s own.” You can have a $1000.00 check in your possession for years and still die a pauper. You must cash it in. God gave the land to Israel, but they had to personally appropriate it (Josh.1:3); and He gave more than they took (Josh.13:1).
Whereas Israel’s blessings were predominately earthly and physical; the Church’s are heavenly and Spiritual, (in both cases there are exceptions to the rule). Proof of the latter is Eph.1:3, “Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ.” Jesus came to bless (Acts 3:26. He ascended, blessing (Lk.24:51). And He continues today (Eph.1:3).
God does not want us to pray for something He has already given; He wants us to take it by faith! (Jn.4:50-51).
This being true, why do so many Christian’s live lives in seeming bereavement, rather than blessing? One word is the answer: “Appropriation.” It means, “To take for one’s own.” You can have a $1000.00 check in your possession for years and still die a pauper. You must cash it in. God gave the land to Israel, but they had to personally appropriate it (Josh.1:3); and He gave more than they took (Josh.13:1).
Whereas Israel’s blessings were predominately earthly and physical; the Church’s are heavenly and Spiritual, (in both cases there are exceptions to the rule). Proof of the latter is Eph.1:3, “Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ.” Jesus came to bless (Acts 3:26. He ascended, blessing (Lk.24:51). And He continues today (Eph.1:3).
God does not want us to pray for something He has already given; He wants us to take it by faith! (Jn.4:50-51).
Jan 28, 2010
A History Lesson
I love history, but it can be frustrating reading at times. What I mean is that many historians differ when recording the same event. And to further my aggravation, I find a wide variance of interpretations among readers of just what the author is attempting to say about said events, or people. Is it any wonder then, as C.S. Lewis says, “The pre-historic is much more believed than the historic”? For this reason, many have conjured up their own fantasies of what happened before there were any records. But debatable facts are always to be chosen over unsubstantiated fantasies! You’ll never come to a conclusion in La La Land.
When reading history, whether secular or Christian, two things must be remembered: First, the natural man always writes with a biased pen; that’s his nature; and second, the saints read with a prejudiced eye. And why is this? We still have enough of the old man in us to leave us jaundiced. As my son, Andrew, says, “An infallible Book doesn’t make us so.”
How then must we read history? Here are my personal suggestions. First, realize the secular writer has some ingrained biases; and that the Christian reader has some innate prejudices. Secondly, leave some elbow room for differing options on minor points (never on your principles). And thirdly, find what you and those who have diverse views can agree on. Like reading diet books that differ, find two or three major points they all agree on and follow that. Chances are you’ll be healthier. And in the case at hand, we’ll no doubt get along better with our brethren in differing camps.
History can liberate or enslave, it’s up to the reader to choose.
When reading history, whether secular or Christian, two things must be remembered: First, the natural man always writes with a biased pen; that’s his nature; and second, the saints read with a prejudiced eye. And why is this? We still have enough of the old man in us to leave us jaundiced. As my son, Andrew, says, “An infallible Book doesn’t make us so.”
How then must we read history? Here are my personal suggestions. First, realize the secular writer has some ingrained biases; and that the Christian reader has some innate prejudices. Secondly, leave some elbow room for differing options on minor points (never on your principles). And thirdly, find what you and those who have diverse views can agree on. Like reading diet books that differ, find two or three major points they all agree on and follow that. Chances are you’ll be healthier. And in the case at hand, we’ll no doubt get along better with our brethren in differing camps.
History can liberate or enslave, it’s up to the reader to choose.
Jan 23, 2010
Mine or His Righteousness
“Not having mine own righteousness...” An old farmer was once asked if he thought the hardest thing in the Christian life was denying sinful self. His reply was, “No, Sir; the most difficult thing is denying righteous self.” Few Christians realize the truth of this statement by the old plowman. Our deepest and most stubborn antagonism toward God is centered in our good and righteous and sacrificial selves. The real battleground where we as saints hold out against God is in the area of our self-righteousness.
It takes some of us a long time (and some never) to realize that our self-made, refined virtues are nothing more than the ragged rags of self-righteousness. Job is a good example. He was righteous; he was all that God said he was. And Job knew it, too. But what he did not know was the actual corruption of his own heart. God had to bring this perfect and upright man, who feared God and eschewed evil, to the place where he said, “I am vile.” Included in this were his virtues, also.
How embarrassing to see saints trying to impress others by showing off their filthy rags of self-righteousness.
It takes some of us a long time (and some never) to realize that our self-made, refined virtues are nothing more than the ragged rags of self-righteousness. Job is a good example. He was righteous; he was all that God said he was. And Job knew it, too. But what he did not know was the actual corruption of his own heart. God had to bring this perfect and upright man, who feared God and eschewed evil, to the place where he said, “I am vile.” Included in this were his virtues, also.
How embarrassing to see saints trying to impress others by showing off their filthy rags of self-righteousness.
Jan 22, 2010
Power or Personality
Many people have a vague idea of God; they think of Him as a force, power, or influence. The New Agers think of God as a power, but Christianity presents Him as a personality! The movie Star Wars depicts Him as The Force; a kind of supernatural abstract thing. They speculate of a spiritual entity that has a universal presence, omnipotence, if you please.
Never confuse personality with visibility. Pantheism maintains everything is God, and God is everything. Thus God is identified with nature, and not independent and separate from it. And so God becomes an unconscious force working in the world. Therefore, substance alone has nothing to do with personality. It is impossible to fellowship with a force or influence.
Communion is between two persons, in this instance, God and man. For this to happen there must of necessity be: intelligence, mind, will, reason, individuality, and self-consciousness. Not just consciousness; an animal has that. Moses spoke to God as friend to Friend. And so do I, and so can you, dear child of God. “And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own.”
Never confuse personality with visibility. Pantheism maintains everything is God, and God is everything. Thus God is identified with nature, and not independent and separate from it. And so God becomes an unconscious force working in the world. Therefore, substance alone has nothing to do with personality. It is impossible to fellowship with a force or influence.
Communion is between two persons, in this instance, God and man. For this to happen there must of necessity be: intelligence, mind, will, reason, individuality, and self-consciousness. Not just consciousness; an animal has that. Moses spoke to God as friend to Friend. And so do I, and so can you, dear child of God. “And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own.”
Jan 21, 2010
Satan and Appetite
“And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes…she took of the fruit thereof.” Although Satan does not know our thoughts, nevertheless he does know our natural disposition and temperament. This is true both in the physical and spiritual realm.
The wind and the tide go together, and so do his temptations with our temperaments. He goes along side of us, not contrary. He doesn’t lure with sauerkraut if your taste buds are programmed for spaghetti! Just because something is good doesn’t mean it’s of God. One writer put it this way, “He [Satan] wraps his poisonous pills in sugar.”
The old Puritan Thomas Brooks said, “Satan, like a fisher, baits his hook according to the appetite of the fish.” He hides the hook beneath the tantalizing bait. And of this you can be sure, whenever one takes his bait, he or she is hooked; none get away. Therefore, before you take that first bite, consider not what you’re getting, but what you’ll be losing.
All Satan’s apples have worms. Dr. John R. Rice
The wind and the tide go together, and so do his temptations with our temperaments. He goes along side of us, not contrary. He doesn’t lure with sauerkraut if your taste buds are programmed for spaghetti! Just because something is good doesn’t mean it’s of God. One writer put it this way, “He [Satan] wraps his poisonous pills in sugar.”
The old Puritan Thomas Brooks said, “Satan, like a fisher, baits his hook according to the appetite of the fish.” He hides the hook beneath the tantalizing bait. And of this you can be sure, whenever one takes his bait, he or she is hooked; none get away. Therefore, before you take that first bite, consider not what you’re getting, but what you’ll be losing.
All Satan’s apples have worms. Dr. John R. Rice
Jan 17, 2010
Get On Your Horse
“And Jacob went on his way...and…God met him.” Jacob had been more or less doing his own thing for many years. Now God calls upon him to come back to the place of blessing. As he journeys, God meets him. You can always depend on God meeting you on the road of obedience. Ask one of the two Mary’s as they complied with the angels command: “And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them.”
Some of us need to get on our horse, and I don’t mean the merry-go-round kind. I’m talking about the kind that takes you in a straight line, not endless circles, getting you nowhere. As the old-timers used to say, “Get a move on!” We have far too many, “I’m gonna’s.” Good intentions are no good unless you fit them into shoe leather.
If you’ll lay aside your feelings, fears, and doubts and start for home, as you round the bend, you’ll find your Father has come out to meet you. “I will arise and go to my father…But when he was a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” Whether Jacob or the prodigal, the promise is still, “Return…and I will deal well with thee…I will surely do thee good.”
Remember, when you take a step toward God, He takes one toward you. And He has a bigger stride!
Some of us need to get on our horse, and I don’t mean the merry-go-round kind. I’m talking about the kind that takes you in a straight line, not endless circles, getting you nowhere. As the old-timers used to say, “Get a move on!” We have far too many, “I’m gonna’s.” Good intentions are no good unless you fit them into shoe leather.
If you’ll lay aside your feelings, fears, and doubts and start for home, as you round the bend, you’ll find your Father has come out to meet you. “I will arise and go to my father…But when he was a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” Whether Jacob or the prodigal, the promise is still, “Return…and I will deal well with thee…I will surely do thee good.”
Remember, when you take a step toward God, He takes one toward you. And He has a bigger stride!
Jan 16, 2010
He Knows My Name
“I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep...he calleth his own sheep by name.” God knows His sheep on a first name basis. He not only knows the prominent ones, as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; but he also knows the names of the least known among the saints. For example, a Gideon, who said, “My family is poor...and I am the least in my father’s house” is known by our Shepherd. He calls us all by name, even to the weakest vessel. “Jesus saith unto her, “Mary.”
You may feel overlooked and insignificant among so many sheep. You’re not first—not even a close second. In fact, you feel lost in this great crowd. You wonder if anyone loves you, cares, or has any interest in you at all. But, dear lamb let me assure you; He knows you personally. A flock of sheep may look uninterestingly alike, and hopelessly indistinguishable, but our Good Shepherd knows us each by name.
If He calls the stars by name, is it any wonder He calls His sheep by theirs?
You may feel overlooked and insignificant among so many sheep. You’re not first—not even a close second. In fact, you feel lost in this great crowd. You wonder if anyone loves you, cares, or has any interest in you at all. But, dear lamb let me assure you; He knows you personally. A flock of sheep may look uninterestingly alike, and hopelessly indistinguishable, but our Good Shepherd knows us each by name.
If He calls the stars by name, is it any wonder He calls His sheep by theirs?
He Knows Me
There are times when I cannot see the trees for the forest; I cannot see a blade of grass for the field; I cannot see the sheep for the flock; I cannot see the person for the crowd. But this is not so with God. He is ever mindful of each individual. God is not as interested in the “general” as He is in the “particular.” I am blinded by bigness, but God’s eye is still on the little sparrow; He even sees when it falls to the ground, and condescends to hold its funeral.
I’m told in His Word that the very hairs of my head are numbered. He calls me by name. He knows my thoughts. He beholds me when I lie down and when I awake. God does not see the masses—only the individual. He looks at the world and sees a person. When He gazes upon the various races, He sees only one face. He is a personal God and must be known as such.
As far as God is concerned, I’m an only child—as if there were only the two of us. How wonderful to know God; but how much more blessed to be known of Him.
“But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God..."
I’m told in His Word that the very hairs of my head are numbered. He calls me by name. He knows my thoughts. He beholds me when I lie down and when I awake. God does not see the masses—only the individual. He looks at the world and sees a person. When He gazes upon the various races, He sees only one face. He is a personal God and must be known as such.
As far as God is concerned, I’m an only child—as if there were only the two of us. How wonderful to know God; but how much more blessed to be known of Him.
“But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God..."
Jan 14, 2010
The Good Law of Intent
Some time ago, I brought a series of messages on Romans 8:28 to one of our church’s adult Sunday School classes. At the conclusion, a frail, dear lady asked that I might remember in prayer her married daughter who was bitter over losing her first child. She added she would not listen to anything the mother had to say in way of comfort. I mentioned to her that sometimes, in hard cases, only prayer and fasting are our alternative. She looked at me with tearful eyes and said, “I can’t fast because of my physical condition.”
What does one do in such cases? Well, this is what I believe. And I’ll tell you what I told her. Set aside a day for prayer and fasting and continue to eat what is necessary. God knows what you would do if you could do it, and marks that to your credit. A Christian in a wheelchair who longs to, and would have, run in a marathon to raise money for missionaries, will find that when he or she stands before the Lord, they will have run a good race. It’s important for all of us to remember “…if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”
The Bible has a principle; I like to call it, “The law of good intent.” David found it to be true when desiring to build the Temple for the Lord, but was told, “Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart. Nevertheless, thou shalt not build the house.”
There are a lot more missionaries on the field than are actually there!
What does one do in such cases? Well, this is what I believe. And I’ll tell you what I told her. Set aside a day for prayer and fasting and continue to eat what is necessary. God knows what you would do if you could do it, and marks that to your credit. A Christian in a wheelchair who longs to, and would have, run in a marathon to raise money for missionaries, will find that when he or she stands before the Lord, they will have run a good race. It’s important for all of us to remember “…if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”
The Bible has a principle; I like to call it, “The law of good intent.” David found it to be true when desiring to build the Temple for the Lord, but was told, “Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart. Nevertheless, thou shalt not build the house.”
There are a lot more missionaries on the field than are actually there!
Jan 13, 2010
When All Seems Lost
“He hath stripped me of my glory, and taken the crown from my head. He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: and mine hope hath he removed like a tree.” Job’s sufferings left him feeling like a dethroned king. God had taken from him his earthly royal robes and crown, leaving him to sit on an ash heap. What a humiliation, going from the highest to the lowest. No matter which way he looked, he saw the destruction of his life. He felt all was gone and that all hope was taken away. That he could never recover his loses.
But Job found it was not “double or nothing,” but double for nothing. When his respectability and honour were laid in the dust, and his property, health, family, and friends’ esteem subtracted from his life, at the end of his problem, surprisingly, there was an addition, “The Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.”
God wanted to teach Job that when the vine has been stripped bear of all its fruit and foliage, there is still the loving, caring, Husbandman standing nearby! The Lord had taken away Job’s fading glory and corruptible crown. But replacing them with His eternal glory, which never dims; and incorruptible crown, that will never perish.
When God takes from us something precious, He replaces it with something twice as good!
But Job found it was not “double or nothing,” but double for nothing. When his respectability and honour were laid in the dust, and his property, health, family, and friends’ esteem subtracted from his life, at the end of his problem, surprisingly, there was an addition, “The Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.”
God wanted to teach Job that when the vine has been stripped bear of all its fruit and foliage, there is still the loving, caring, Husbandman standing nearby! The Lord had taken away Job’s fading glory and corruptible crown. But replacing them with His eternal glory, which never dims; and incorruptible crown, that will never perish.
When God takes from us something precious, He replaces it with something twice as good!
Jan 11, 2010
The Elephant in the Room
The title of our article comes from a popular little idiom meaning, “A problem or difficult issue that is very obvious, but is ignored for the convenience or comfort of those involved.” It has always been more embarrassing for me to ignore the obvious than to acknowledge it. I’m very uncomfortable attempting to be pretentious. I realize there is an appropriate time for the discussion of some things; but when there is a four-ton elephant standing among us, well, it’s difficult for to me play act at such a time. Or as the popular term goes, “be in denial.”
I am more than aware that there are some among us who are like a bull in a china shop when it comes to sensitive situations. But I find there are far more in comparison who tip-toe through the tulips, so to speak, rather that offend. Some people are so sweet, they’re sticky.
Jesus’ disciples asked Him if He realized that He had offended the soft-skinned Pharisees, to which He acknowledged that He had. But He had only brought to attention what everyone knew. You can be sure, if Jesus entered a room with an elephant present, He didn’t act as if it were imaginary or invisible.
Big problems do not go away simply because we close our eyes to them!
I am more than aware that there are some among us who are like a bull in a china shop when it comes to sensitive situations. But I find there are far more in comparison who tip-toe through the tulips, so to speak, rather that offend. Some people are so sweet, they’re sticky.
Jesus’ disciples asked Him if He realized that He had offended the soft-skinned Pharisees, to which He acknowledged that He had. But He had only brought to attention what everyone knew. You can be sure, if Jesus entered a room with an elephant present, He didn’t act as if it were imaginary or invisible.
Big problems do not go away simply because we close our eyes to them!
Ascending Affections
“…seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” At the funeral of one of my dearest friends, some years ago, before my wife sang, she made a comment about his Godly life. She mentioned that while he was alive, someone had said of him that he was so Heavenly minded, he was of no earthly good. But, said she, I seriously doubt anyone is of any value to this world until they are such minded.
Noah didn’t set his affection on this earth, for he knew everything was ultimately going to be water-soaked. And we shouldn’t either if we really believe everything is going up in smoke. Those who are over zealous for this present earth, using the Scripture, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof,” to justify their obsession with it, need to remember it was the Lord who destroyed the sinful Noahic earth; and He will do it again with ours. His promise to us is a “new earth,” when the former is passed away (new in the sense of Divine renovation).
Today, I observe that in most Christians, there is an absence of a Heavenly longing and looking. Longing for Christ and looking for that country wherein the Eternal City dwells. The one Abraham spent a lifetime seeking for.
If home is where the heart is, no Christian should feel at home on this present earth.
Noah didn’t set his affection on this earth, for he knew everything was ultimately going to be water-soaked. And we shouldn’t either if we really believe everything is going up in smoke. Those who are over zealous for this present earth, using the Scripture, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof,” to justify their obsession with it, need to remember it was the Lord who destroyed the sinful Noahic earth; and He will do it again with ours. His promise to us is a “new earth,” when the former is passed away (new in the sense of Divine renovation).
Today, I observe that in most Christians, there is an absence of a Heavenly longing and looking. Longing for Christ and looking for that country wherein the Eternal City dwells. The one Abraham spent a lifetime seeking for.
If home is where the heart is, no Christian should feel at home on this present earth.
Jan 9, 2010
Crushing Cares
"Be careful for nothing.” So admonishes the Apostle to the Philippian Christians. One need not change this so-called archaic word to understand it, but simply reverse it. Thus we find that we should not be full of care about anything. As difficult as it may sound to some of us habitual worry-warts, anxiety is not an acceptable life-style for a believer.
Many of us are concerned why we do not manifest more of the Spirit’s fruit in our daily lives. Our Lord gives us the reason for this barrenness. He tells us, “…the cares of this world…choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.” I would not say the following had I not our text to validate such a statement. Worry weakens the Word; it gets a strangle hold on it, and then cuts off its celestial, life-giving oxygen to us.
The devil will pile care after care upon us, if we allow him, sinking us in a sea of despair and hopelessness. David gave us the cure for care when he said, “Trust in the Lord at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him.” Therefore, I’m required during those times in my life when care is the predominate fact, to immediately prioritize. That is, at any given moment of my life when worry plagues me, my first responsibility is to, “…trust in the living God,” and to cast all my cares upon Him.
We are to never let the cares of this world usurp the place of trusting in God!
Many of us are concerned why we do not manifest more of the Spirit’s fruit in our daily lives. Our Lord gives us the reason for this barrenness. He tells us, “…the cares of this world…choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.” I would not say the following had I not our text to validate such a statement. Worry weakens the Word; it gets a strangle hold on it, and then cuts off its celestial, life-giving oxygen to us.
The devil will pile care after care upon us, if we allow him, sinking us in a sea of despair and hopelessness. David gave us the cure for care when he said, “Trust in the Lord at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him.” Therefore, I’m required during those times in my life when care is the predominate fact, to immediately prioritize. That is, at any given moment of my life when worry plagues me, my first responsibility is to, “…trust in the living God,” and to cast all my cares upon Him.
We are to never let the cares of this world usurp the place of trusting in God!
Jan 8, 2010
Totalitarian's Greatest Fear
Nothing will strike fear into the heart of tyrannical personality, whether they be political or spiritual, like a thinking person. When they lose control of your mind, they have lost control. Notice the last three words in the sub-head of Today’s Journal. It says “…for thinking people.” Our purpose is not to get people to think our way, but to challenge each to do his or her own thinking. We have far too many, what I like to refer to as, “Parrot Christians.”
Many, who have not had the privilege of a good education, nonetheless possess a highly intellectual aptitude. I’ve known educated people who, as my dear old mother used to say, “didn’t know how to come in out of the rain.” Both Jesus and His disciples did not have formal educations, but who would be ignorant enough to believe they did not have the same, or superior, smarts as the most learned of their day, especially the former.
For example, let’s take those who sit under dogmatic, prophetic, authoritarian Bible teachers. A thinker, when told there will definitely be a seven year tribulation period, will invariably ask the question, “What Jesus meant when He stated that those days would be shortened?” And as to the Seven Hills of Rome being the only solitary place known as such, some may wonder why they are not told of the other three places that are known for having seven hills associated with them (Babylon, Byzantium, and Jerusalem). And why something as important as the re-building of the Temple was never mentioned by Jesus or Paul? And that the “Last Days” started in Jesus’ day (Heb.1:2), not ours.
I’m not saying I adhere to any of the above, nor am I denying it; that’s not the issue. I simply want people, as Winnie the Pooh says, to “think, think, think.” O beloved of the Lord, use the mind God gave you. Don’t be intimidated by pseudo-scholarship. As much as possible, learn to be objective in your thinking. No one person has a corner on the truth. God can and will show a godly scrub-woman deep truths from His Word, just as He does a learned theologian!
Watch out for the person who gets upset when questioned!
Many, who have not had the privilege of a good education, nonetheless possess a highly intellectual aptitude. I’ve known educated people who, as my dear old mother used to say, “didn’t know how to come in out of the rain.” Both Jesus and His disciples did not have formal educations, but who would be ignorant enough to believe they did not have the same, or superior, smarts as the most learned of their day, especially the former.
For example, let’s take those who sit under dogmatic, prophetic, authoritarian Bible teachers. A thinker, when told there will definitely be a seven year tribulation period, will invariably ask the question, “What Jesus meant when He stated that those days would be shortened?” And as to the Seven Hills of Rome being the only solitary place known as such, some may wonder why they are not told of the other three places that are known for having seven hills associated with them (Babylon, Byzantium, and Jerusalem). And why something as important as the re-building of the Temple was never mentioned by Jesus or Paul? And that the “Last Days” started in Jesus’ day (Heb.1:2), not ours.
I’m not saying I adhere to any of the above, nor am I denying it; that’s not the issue. I simply want people, as Winnie the Pooh says, to “think, think, think.” O beloved of the Lord, use the mind God gave you. Don’t be intimidated by pseudo-scholarship. As much as possible, learn to be objective in your thinking. No one person has a corner on the truth. God can and will show a godly scrub-woman deep truths from His Word, just as He does a learned theologian!
Watch out for the person who gets upset when questioned!
Jan 6, 2010
God Plays It Close
I’m sure most are familiar with the little clichés, “playing it close”; “playing it to the minute”; or “playing it down to the wire.” Well, that’s what God does. It’s nerve-racking, and most of us would prefer that He do things way ahead of time, but that’s not the way He works. Saul lost everything because he couldn’t wait till the last minute (1Sam.13:8-14).
Admittedly, it can be scary when all is at stake. I just read again the story in the Old Testament of Haman’s plans to hang Mordecai (Esther 6). Within a moment of time God turned the tables, so to speak, in Mordecai’s favour. You talk about getting out of something “by the skin of your teeth!” Only faith in God’s faithfulness can take one up to the wire; “figgerin” will always fail you.
We need to synchronize our clocks with God’s time piece. Ours is always five minutes ahead of His time.
Admittedly, it can be scary when all is at stake. I just read again the story in the Old Testament of Haman’s plans to hang Mordecai (Esther 6). Within a moment of time God turned the tables, so to speak, in Mordecai’s favour. You talk about getting out of something “by the skin of your teeth!” Only faith in God’s faithfulness can take one up to the wire; “figgerin” will always fail you.
We need to synchronize our clocks with God’s time piece. Ours is always five minutes ahead of His time.
Jan 5, 2010
The Greater is Blessed by the Lesser
“I trust that through your prayers I shall be given to you.” Here we see balanced believers. Paul was not so super-spiritual that he did not believe in the means. Paul had faith in God’s people’s faith. He trusted their prayers, because he knew they trusted the One who answers prayers. You can always trust someone who trusts God.
We find here the greater being helped by the lesser. But there was wisdom in doing so, for the latter would receive benefits from the former by his ministering to their Spiritual needs. When people pray for faithful ministers, they are, in effect, praying for themselves and their own Spiritual welfare. You might say it has a boomerang effect!
It is wise for those in high positions of Spiritual leadership to humbly request the prayers of God’s lowly saints. Peter chained in prison slept peaceably, knowing God’s people were praying for him.
We find here the greater being helped by the lesser. But there was wisdom in doing so, for the latter would receive benefits from the former by his ministering to their Spiritual needs. When people pray for faithful ministers, they are, in effect, praying for themselves and their own Spiritual welfare. You might say it has a boomerang effect!
It is wise for those in high positions of Spiritual leadership to humbly request the prayers of God’s lowly saints. Peter chained in prison slept peaceably, knowing God’s people were praying for him.
Jan 3, 2010
Learning to Walk
“Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Walking according to a set of man-made rules and restrictions may outwardly hide some fleshly fruit, but will only be replaced by a damnable fleshly pride peeking through filthy rags of righteousness. God promises to enable us to meet His heavenly standards. No such promise is given for a man-made list of taboos. God supplies what He demands! To walk by earthly, human restrictions is to walk unaided by Deity.
A Spiritual walk is not a complicated teaching; it is not something deep and mystical, something for a pseudo elite, enlightened group. Walking in the Spirit is simply an on-going attitude of reliance, a continual dependence upon the indwelling Spirit in every area of your life. This refusal is what caused Satan’s fall. When he said, “I will be like the Most High,” he was not desiring God’s Holiness, but rather His independence. Maintaining one’s Spiritual dependence is what Satan fights.
Whenever we cease to walk in the Spirit, we immediately return to walking in the flesh. The latter is easy to spot; they characteristically manifest an empty heart and barren life. They erroneously think human effort can bring their desired results. Oswald Chambers said, “All our vows and resolutions end in denial because we do not have the power to carry them out.” Only the Spirit of God can keep us from fulfilling the lusts and desires of the flesh. “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not…”
We cannot meet tomorrow’s issues today. We must walk step by step today. It is a constant appropriation of the Spirit’s power in our lives.
A Spiritual walk is not a complicated teaching; it is not something deep and mystical, something for a pseudo elite, enlightened group. Walking in the Spirit is simply an on-going attitude of reliance, a continual dependence upon the indwelling Spirit in every area of your life. This refusal is what caused Satan’s fall. When he said, “I will be like the Most High,” he was not desiring God’s Holiness, but rather His independence. Maintaining one’s Spiritual dependence is what Satan fights.
Whenever we cease to walk in the Spirit, we immediately return to walking in the flesh. The latter is easy to spot; they characteristically manifest an empty heart and barren life. They erroneously think human effort can bring their desired results. Oswald Chambers said, “All our vows and resolutions end in denial because we do not have the power to carry them out.” Only the Spirit of God can keep us from fulfilling the lusts and desires of the flesh. “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not…”
We cannot meet tomorrow’s issues today. We must walk step by step today. It is a constant appropriation of the Spirit’s power in our lives.
Jan 2, 2010
The Cost of Obeying God
Any enlightened informed Christian is astutely aware that our age is characterized by a shallow, milk-sop, type of professor. As the sub-heading of Today’s Journal say’s, it’s for “thinking people.” I trust any who read this article do not fall into the above category of the dunces with their hats on, sitting proudly in some corner. If so, two things are certain. First, they’ll be highly offended by what I write today; and secondly, they will not be able to conceive of the God they envision doing anything like I’m going to describe. The reason being, their God has been created by their own imagination, and does things only as they would do them (Psl.50:21 cp. Isa.55:8).
In Matthew’s gospel we read of Herod putting innocent children to death. And why was this? Simply because the Wise Men obeyed God. You might say these little ones were the first martyrs for Jesus’ sake in the New Testament! Think of all the parents, siblings, and loved ones who were deprived of having the benefit of seeing that toddler grow-up. How one might point the finger of blame at these three men for their own personal misery. But no child of God ever needs to feel guilt for obeying the Lord. The only important thing in this life is that God’s Darling Son be glorified, even if it is at our or others’ expense. And so, let us count the cost of following Christ. Not only the cost to us, but to others around us.
The song writer had it right when he penned, “It’s not an easy road we are travelling to Heaven!”
In Matthew’s gospel we read of Herod putting innocent children to death. And why was this? Simply because the Wise Men obeyed God. You might say these little ones were the first martyrs for Jesus’ sake in the New Testament! Think of all the parents, siblings, and loved ones who were deprived of having the benefit of seeing that toddler grow-up. How one might point the finger of blame at these three men for their own personal misery. But no child of God ever needs to feel guilt for obeying the Lord. The only important thing in this life is that God’s Darling Son be glorified, even if it is at our or others’ expense. And so, let us count the cost of following Christ. Not only the cost to us, but to others around us.
The song writer had it right when he penned, “It’s not an easy road we are travelling to Heaven!”
Dec 19, 2009
I'll Be Seeing You
A line from a beautiful love song of the 40’s say’s, “I’ll be seeing you in all the old familiar places.” Well, in John’s gospel he records the words of the Lover of our souls, before leaving this world, promising, “I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice.” And the old saint continues this exciting anticipation in his first epistle by telling us, “We shall see him as he is.” And in the Revelation, alone on Patmos, nearing his end, he adds “And [we] shall see his face.”
The gospel song puts it this way, “What a day that will be, when my Jesus I shall see; and I look upon his face, the One who saved me by his grace.” As the old timer’s would say of this promise of seeing our Lord face to face, “You can hang your hat on it.” That is, you can depend on it. I like the way Job put it, “For I know…after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh (Resurrection) shall I see God. Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold.”
Let me close by once again quoting “…the disciple whom Jesus loved.” Speaking to all the family of God he writes, “And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.”
The gospel song puts it this way, “What a day that will be, when my Jesus I shall see; and I look upon his face, the One who saved me by his grace.” As the old timer’s would say of this promise of seeing our Lord face to face, “You can hang your hat on it.” That is, you can depend on it. I like the way Job put it, “For I know…after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh (Resurrection) shall I see God. Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold.”
Let me close by once again quoting “…the disciple whom Jesus loved.” Speaking to all the family of God he writes, “And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.”
Dec 11, 2009
W.W.J.D. or W.W.J.S.
I’m not advocating the throwing away of your bracelet, necklace, etc.; but after this article, you may want to change the end letter “D,” to “S.” In my opinion it is not, “What would Jesus do?” but rather, “What would Jesus say?” I find most that practice the former go by their own imagination, instead of Divine Inspiration.
I seriously doubt if any Believer who saw Christian material being sold in the vestibule of their church for three or four times its actual price, would turn over the tables and drive out the culprits with a whip. That’s what Jesus would do; but what He would say is, “Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise.”
Jesus did a lot of things we could not and should not do, but all that He said, we can safely follow. God said concerning His Son, “Hear ye Him.” When we’re told to “follow in His steps,” it’s speaking spiritually, not physically. Paul said of young Titus, “Walked we not in the same spirit? Walked we not in the same steps?”
We cannot do what God does, but we can all do what God says. And so next time we’re in a predicament, rather than asking, “What would Jesus do?” how about, “What would Jesus say?” We’d be surer, I believe, of getting out of our ruts, and also pleasing God. The Apostle Paul wrote, “If any man…consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ…he is proud, knowing nothing.”
I seriously doubt if any Believer who saw Christian material being sold in the vestibule of their church for three or four times its actual price, would turn over the tables and drive out the culprits with a whip. That’s what Jesus would do; but what He would say is, “Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise.”
Jesus did a lot of things we could not and should not do, but all that He said, we can safely follow. God said concerning His Son, “Hear ye Him.” When we’re told to “follow in His steps,” it’s speaking spiritually, not physically. Paul said of young Titus, “Walked we not in the same spirit? Walked we not in the same steps?”
We cannot do what God does, but we can all do what God says. And so next time we’re in a predicament, rather than asking, “What would Jesus do?” how about, “What would Jesus say?” We’d be surer, I believe, of getting out of our ruts, and also pleasing God. The Apostle Paul wrote, “If any man…consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ…he is proud, knowing nothing.”
Dec 4, 2009
Global Warming
I am not a meteorologist, environmentalist, or biologist; but I do profess to be a 100% Biblist. And the Word of God tells me in no uncertain terms that as God destroyed His earth in the past by immersing it in water, He will demolish it in the future with a baptism of fire.
To those fickle followers of Christ who like to spiritualize the hard sayings of the Bible, I would remind you that the picture, good or bad, never does justice to the actual. Therefore, if the text is literal, it is going to be very, very bad. But if it is speaking figuratively, it’s going to be even worse than imagined. You choose.
As to the cause and effect of this devastation, the former is due to man’s continual sin against God. Concerning the latter, it’s the results of the Lord’s judgment upon mankind for his incessant rebellion. In the end-time Book of Revelation we’re told of the sun scorching men with great heat, so that they gnaw their tongues in pain and blaspheme the name God, refusing to repent.
But we are also told of a new earth that is awaiting those who bless that Worthy Name. Peter in his second epistle puts it this way, “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
For you who have put all your stock in this present earth, I would remind you that your dividends of return will be ashes. I do not want to sound frivolous in making this statement to you who have put your roots deep in this present earth; but there is more truth than fiction in the old song, “There’ll be a Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight.”
To those fickle followers of Christ who like to spiritualize the hard sayings of the Bible, I would remind you that the picture, good or bad, never does justice to the actual. Therefore, if the text is literal, it is going to be very, very bad. But if it is speaking figuratively, it’s going to be even worse than imagined. You choose.
As to the cause and effect of this devastation, the former is due to man’s continual sin against God. Concerning the latter, it’s the results of the Lord’s judgment upon mankind for his incessant rebellion. In the end-time Book of Revelation we’re told of the sun scorching men with great heat, so that they gnaw their tongues in pain and blaspheme the name God, refusing to repent.
But we are also told of a new earth that is awaiting those who bless that Worthy Name. Peter in his second epistle puts it this way, “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
For you who have put all your stock in this present earth, I would remind you that your dividends of return will be ashes. I do not want to sound frivolous in making this statement to you who have put your roots deep in this present earth; but there is more truth than fiction in the old song, “There’ll be a Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight.”
Dec 2, 2009
So You Believe, Do You?
“Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” What a shock it must have been for those early believers, as it is for many today, to find out that the devil has faith. He is orthodox, in that he believes in the unity of God. He can stand alongside of many in churches and repeat their creed: “I believe in the one, true God.” If that’s all one has, then you cannot distinguish them from the devil. To be content with this kind of faith is to be condemned.
It is not a professing faith, but a faith that produces good works that God recognizes. If a person has only a faith without works, he is no better than the devil. The devils know there is one God, but there is no personal relationship with Him. “...what have we to do with thee...I know who thou art, the Holy One of God.” There are no atheists among the devil’s crowd. Those only exist among us mortals.
A mere intellectual assent is a vanity faith—it’s cosmetic. You can have an intellectual faith (the devils believe) and a faith that moves the emotions (they tremble), but only that faith that brings a change of life and good works, counts with God. It’s not talkin’ it that counts, but walkin’ it.
A naked profession of faith is no better than a verbal charity! (Thomas Manton)
It is not a professing faith, but a faith that produces good works that God recognizes. If a person has only a faith without works, he is no better than the devil. The devils know there is one God, but there is no personal relationship with Him. “...what have we to do with thee...I know who thou art, the Holy One of God.” There are no atheists among the devil’s crowd. Those only exist among us mortals.
A mere intellectual assent is a vanity faith—it’s cosmetic. You can have an intellectual faith (the devils believe) and a faith that moves the emotions (they tremble), but only that faith that brings a change of life and good works, counts with God. It’s not talkin’ it that counts, but walkin’ it.
A naked profession of faith is no better than a verbal charity! (Thomas Manton)
Nov 23, 2009
Crediting the Creditors
Though the old saying, “Giving credit, where credit is due,” is not spelled out in the Bible, its principle is. One such deserving people are those who give the credit, just not those who receive it. We need to give some credit to the creditors.
It seems exalting oneself at another’s expense is the vogue thing today. It takes real heart-felt humility to put the spot-light on someone else and off of us. Pride loves to parade itself as if it were the only one in the marching procession. We like all eyes to be upon us.
The next time someone gives you credit for something, take a minute to appreciate the humility it took to sincerely do so. It’s an easy thing to take credit, to be on the receiving end, but not always easy to give it. Many times it’s a thankless endeavor!
I love the way the translators of the K.J.V puts it in their dedicatory, concerning those who are “eaten-up," so to speak, with themselves. They’re described as, “…self-conceited Brethren who run their own ways, and give liking unto nothing, but what is framed by themselves, and hammered on their anvil.”
When credit is due another, pay what is owed them.
It seems exalting oneself at another’s expense is the vogue thing today. It takes real heart-felt humility to put the spot-light on someone else and off of us. Pride loves to parade itself as if it were the only one in the marching procession. We like all eyes to be upon us.
The next time someone gives you credit for something, take a minute to appreciate the humility it took to sincerely do so. It’s an easy thing to take credit, to be on the receiving end, but not always easy to give it. Many times it’s a thankless endeavor!
I love the way the translators of the K.J.V puts it in their dedicatory, concerning those who are “eaten-up," so to speak, with themselves. They’re described as, “…self-conceited Brethren who run their own ways, and give liking unto nothing, but what is framed by themselves, and hammered on their anvil.”
When credit is due another, pay what is owed them.
Nov 14, 2009
A Word to the Intelligentsia
I personally do not know of anything more magnetic in the academic world than intellectual simplicity. This, no doubt, is what Paul was referring to when he warned the learned Corinthians of not forgetting the simplicity that is in Christ. Just because a great book on higher learning is on the bottom shelf, doesn’t make it any less so. One advantage of having the cookies on the lower shelf is that everyone can enjoy them, just not the “big people.”
I like to think of the intellect as the capacity to hold knowledge, and wisdom as enabling one to dispense it. Or to put it another way, intellect is the bucket, knowledge the fluid poured in, and wisdom the dipper that distributes it.
Though Jesus’ intellect was fathomless, and His knowledge endless, when He disbursed truth to the people, it was ordinary, familiar words He used. The greatest sermon ever preached was the Sermon on the Mount. Notice He used a simple dipper that they were all accustomed to, in satisfying their thirsty souls. Is it any wonder we are told, “…the common people heard Him gladly?”
Character is higher than intellect. ~Ralph
I like to think of the intellect as the capacity to hold knowledge, and wisdom as enabling one to dispense it. Or to put it another way, intellect is the bucket, knowledge the fluid poured in, and wisdom the dipper that distributes it.
Though Jesus’ intellect was fathomless, and His knowledge endless, when He disbursed truth to the people, it was ordinary, familiar words He used. The greatest sermon ever preached was the Sermon on the Mount. Notice He used a simple dipper that they were all accustomed to, in satisfying their thirsty souls. Is it any wonder we are told, “…the common people heard Him gladly?”
Character is higher than intellect. ~Ralph
Nov 11, 2009
Daily Dependence
There are few things in the Christian life that are once-for-all settled. Certainly our salvation tops the list in this brief category (Heb.10:10). But most things are on-going. For example, we are told God gives out His benefits on a daily basis. Israel found they were to be daily dependent during their forty year pilgrimage in the desert.
God has arranged things so that the Christian’s life is to be lived in perpetual day by day reliance upon His faithfulness. Thus He keeps our lives from becoming boring and matter-of-fact. For, says He, “Thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”
It’s assuring to know He’s planned ahead for each new day. And exciting to anticipate what new things He has in store for us on any given day. David knew his days were in Deity’s hands, and so he penned, “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had been done. (C.S. Lewis)
God has arranged things so that the Christian’s life is to be lived in perpetual day by day reliance upon His faithfulness. Thus He keeps our lives from becoming boring and matter-of-fact. For, says He, “Thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”
It’s assuring to know He’s planned ahead for each new day. And exciting to anticipate what new things He has in store for us on any given day. David knew his days were in Deity’s hands, and so he penned, “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had been done. (C.S. Lewis)
Nov 3, 2009
Good without God
It seems to me, in the controversial passage of Romans chapter seven, verses fifteen through twenty-five that we have a sinful man (vv.17, 20, 23) trying to be a good man (vv.19,21) without the God Man (v.25).
C.S. Lewis said, “No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good.” Paul found you can’t bypass God, trying to be good. Our Lord said as much when He said, “…there is none good but one, that is, God.” Therefore, the only way for a man to be truly good, is to get God into him!
One of Satan’s main goals in the Fall was to tempt man to side-step God, and exchange Him for good alone. You can be good without God; but only in the world’s estimation! It is not good enough for it to be said of a man, “He’s a good man.” But, like Barnabas, of old, “He was a good man and full of the Holy Ghost.”
A Godly saint trumps a good sinner every time
C.S. Lewis said, “No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good.” Paul found you can’t bypass God, trying to be good. Our Lord said as much when He said, “…there is none good but one, that is, God.” Therefore, the only way for a man to be truly good, is to get God into him!
One of Satan’s main goals in the Fall was to tempt man to side-step God, and exchange Him for good alone. You can be good without God; but only in the world’s estimation! It is not good enough for it to be said of a man, “He’s a good man.” But, like Barnabas, of old, “He was a good man and full of the Holy Ghost.”
A Godly saint trumps a good sinner every time
Oct 28, 2009
*Same-Alikes
When my youngest daughter, Charity, was small and would see things that matched, she would say, “They are same-alikes.” Well, the only thing God’s children are alike in is their principles. We all received a Divine disposition at the time of our Spiritual birth. This is true Christ-likeness. Other than this, we are like snowflakes or fingerprints; the Bible uses the stars to show our diversities.
This individuality necessitates our Heavenly Father, like any wise earthly one, to deal with each of His children accordingly. The Scriptures teach both general truths and specific; and so it is with God’s dealings with His “Little Ones.” For example, generally speaking, “Nothing is impossible with God.” But, specifically we’re told, “It is impossible for God to lie.” This principle also holds true in the Lord dealing with each of His Elect; that is, in a general and specific sense.
There are the general Commandments (ten) addressed to all the saints, but there are also specific commands given to individual Believer’s at different times and in various situations, as they go through life. This is one of the great dangers in taking biographies too seriously and trying to emulate the character written about. Let me illustrate. C.S. Lewis’ prayer-life consisted in request and committal; while Hudson Taylor’s was in claiming and getting things from God. Which was right? Who was most Spiritual? Both! This truth is found in Hebrews chapter eleven, where we find the dividing line in such lives is found in the words, “And others…”
Let God be as original with others as He is with you! (Oswald Chambers)
This individuality necessitates our Heavenly Father, like any wise earthly one, to deal with each of His children accordingly. The Scriptures teach both general truths and specific; and so it is with God’s dealings with His “Little Ones.” For example, generally speaking, “Nothing is impossible with God.” But, specifically we’re told, “It is impossible for God to lie.” This principle also holds true in the Lord dealing with each of His Elect; that is, in a general and specific sense.
There are the general Commandments (ten) addressed to all the saints, but there are also specific commands given to individual Believer’s at different times and in various situations, as they go through life. This is one of the great dangers in taking biographies too seriously and trying to emulate the character written about. Let me illustrate. C.S. Lewis’ prayer-life consisted in request and committal; while Hudson Taylor’s was in claiming and getting things from God. Which was right? Who was most Spiritual? Both! This truth is found in Hebrews chapter eleven, where we find the dividing line in such lives is found in the words, “And others…”
Let God be as original with others as He is with you! (Oswald Chambers)
Oct 24, 2009
Benefits without Baggage
We are told that God “…daily loadeth us with benefits.” But some cannot enjoy these blessings for the excess baggage they carry. It is not the weight of His benefits that causes us to cave in, but the extra baggage we lug around. There’s a reason they call it luggage!
God gave us richly all things to enjoy, but all of us do not enjoy everything. The “all things” is up to one’s individual liking. A smorgasbord is for everyone, but the choice is according to each one’s taste. Not everybody likes broccoli, but it’s there for the ones who do.
Every Christian needs to read Romans chapter fourteen on a regular basis. This chapter should be mastered by all believers. Without a doubt, it would do away with the greatest part of the dissentions that are so prevalent among God’s people today.
The overall teaching of the chapter is that some cannot, while others can. If what we do cannot be done in good faith, then we are not to do it. If we do, there will be a continual nagging of conscience. If the head says yes, and the heart no, you will be wise to cease from it. You need these two witnesses to agree to the truth, if you’re to be established.
“Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.” There may be nothing wrong with your baggage, but there is if it keeps you from getting to where you want to go.
God gave us richly all things to enjoy, but all of us do not enjoy everything. The “all things” is up to one’s individual liking. A smorgasbord is for everyone, but the choice is according to each one’s taste. Not everybody likes broccoli, but it’s there for the ones who do.
Every Christian needs to read Romans chapter fourteen on a regular basis. This chapter should be mastered by all believers. Without a doubt, it would do away with the greatest part of the dissentions that are so prevalent among God’s people today.
The overall teaching of the chapter is that some cannot, while others can. If what we do cannot be done in good faith, then we are not to do it. If we do, there will be a continual nagging of conscience. If the head says yes, and the heart no, you will be wise to cease from it. You need these two witnesses to agree to the truth, if you’re to be established.
“Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.” There may be nothing wrong with your baggage, but there is if it keeps you from getting to where you want to go.
Oct 23, 2009
*Clothes Do Not Make the Person
God is not deceived by externals. It is only we who are impressed and taken in by them. We have a difficult time looking past the outer. Pharisaical movements and people, like the world, major on what a person does rather than who they are. What you look like, and do, are more important than what it is that motivates you. They think more of decorum than devotion. The inner robe of righteousness is passed over for the etiquette of ritualism.
Phariseeism loves public street corners where it can be seen of men, while true godliness longs for the inner chamber, where only God seeth in secret. The Pharisee wants to be called, “Rabbi, Rabbi,” by the people, rather than hear the Father say, “My son.” The pathway between the externalist and communion with God is grown over with grass; but the path between him and the praise of men is well trodden.
God’s way is always, “first that which is within.” Both Ezra and Nehemiah, when rebuilding the temple, began with the altar, and inner things. The outer always came last. If they had neglected the most important part, they would have been left with a monstrosity—yes, a beautiful temple for all to look upon and admire, but only a shell with no substance within, nothing that would attract God to it.
It is interesting that Jesus never once called attention to the externals, other than those in the lives of the Pharisees. We had better start concerning ourselves with what Jesus was concerned with: the heart, the inner man, the spirit within.
Phariseeism loves public street corners where it can be seen of men, while true godliness longs for the inner chamber, where only God seeth in secret. The Pharisee wants to be called, “Rabbi, Rabbi,” by the people, rather than hear the Father say, “My son.” The pathway between the externalist and communion with God is grown over with grass; but the path between him and the praise of men is well trodden.
God’s way is always, “first that which is within.” Both Ezra and Nehemiah, when rebuilding the temple, began with the altar, and inner things. The outer always came last. If they had neglected the most important part, they would have been left with a monstrosity—yes, a beautiful temple for all to look upon and admire, but only a shell with no substance within, nothing that would attract God to it.
It is interesting that Jesus never once called attention to the externals, other than those in the lives of the Pharisees. We had better start concerning ourselves with what Jesus was concerned with: the heart, the inner man, the spirit within.
Oct 21, 2009
Quibbling Over Quotes
A few months ago, I quoted in an article some cowboy sayings from a book I received as a Christmas gift. One of the one-liners contained the word “damn,” at which a young preacher took offence. You have to wonder what one does when reading in God’s “R” rated Book, the Bible, such words as, “whore,” “pisseth,” and “bastard.” And what about those sexy scenes in Song of Solomon, along with depictions of vivid violence as found in the A.V.1611, that leaves nothing to imagination? I guess they go to one of the many watered-down, tickling translations, which offend none of the thin-skinned saints.
When scriptures quote the devil, it neither commends him, nor agrees with what he said. On the other hand, when the Apostle Paul quotes one of the secular poets of his day, though not promoting the man, yet he does agree with what he says (Acts 17). And in Titus chapter one he quotes a false prophet, and goes so far as to say of one of his statements, “this witness is true.” Jesus was constantly quoting those with whom he did not agree. But he never “threw the baby out with the wash,” so to speak. On one occasion, He told His followers to do what the Pharisees said, but not to do what they did (Matt.23:3).
Quibblers are always looking through the wrong end of the telescope; they never see the big picture.
When scriptures quote the devil, it neither commends him, nor agrees with what he said. On the other hand, when the Apostle Paul quotes one of the secular poets of his day, though not promoting the man, yet he does agree with what he says (Acts 17). And in Titus chapter one he quotes a false prophet, and goes so far as to say of one of his statements, “this witness is true.” Jesus was constantly quoting those with whom he did not agree. But he never “threw the baby out with the wash,” so to speak. On one occasion, He told His followers to do what the Pharisees said, but not to do what they did (Matt.23:3).
Quibblers are always looking through the wrong end of the telescope; they never see the big picture.
Oct 20, 2009
*The Chamber of Our Mind
The Bible teaches a Christian can be either carnally or spiritually minded; the choice is theirs to make. I wonder if many of us prefer to think carnally, while trying to live spiritually. Or at least what passes off as being spiritual to our peers. It is important to this type person, what the brethren think of them, but they seem to care little of God’s estimation.
This brand of professing Christian doesn’t do what the world does; they just like to think about doing what the world does. We hear much about the sin of omission and commission, but what of the sin of intent. We commit this act because we like to think it is not a sin. But I’d venture to say this spiritual sin is one of the worst kinds of sin. Jesus said it is possible to be a murderer and adulterer without ever actually committing the act.
George McDonald says, “If we are to get rid of those things that defile us, we must go inside ourselves, be a convict, and scrub the floor of our cell.” I don’t know about you, but I’m looking for a scrub brush and mop!
This brand of professing Christian doesn’t do what the world does; they just like to think about doing what the world does. We hear much about the sin of omission and commission, but what of the sin of intent. We commit this act because we like to think it is not a sin. But I’d venture to say this spiritual sin is one of the worst kinds of sin. Jesus said it is possible to be a murderer and adulterer without ever actually committing the act.
George McDonald says, “If we are to get rid of those things that defile us, we must go inside ourselves, be a convict, and scrub the floor of our cell.” I don’t know about you, but I’m looking for a scrub brush and mop!
Oct 19, 2009
*Temperaments Out of Control
The ever present danger in the Christian’s life is accepting and substituting the good for the best. It is possible for good to be the enemy of the best. Eve put good before God. The natural is not spiritual; the former mocks the latter, as Ishmael did Isaac. Natural temperament can bestow all its goods to feed the poor, and even give its body to be burned at the stake; yet be void of spirituality. The natural can never receive the things of the Spirit of God, no matter how well it passes itself off as being good.
The great peril of “natural niceties” is that one ends up thinking, “I…have need of nothing.” It will leave Christ on the doorstep of your life. Let us beware of flaunting our natural gifts as spiritual. C. S. Lewis writes, “The Devil was an archangel once; his natural gifts were as far above yours as yours are above those of a chimpanzee.”
A naturally nice temperament is as corrupt and vile in God’s sight as a loathsome one, if it has not been crucified. Oswald Chambers said, “Beware of not going to the funeral of your own independence.” Our natural only becomes divinely acceptable, when it is under the supernatural control of God.
The great peril of “natural niceties” is that one ends up thinking, “I…have need of nothing.” It will leave Christ on the doorstep of your life. Let us beware of flaunting our natural gifts as spiritual. C. S. Lewis writes, “The Devil was an archangel once; his natural gifts were as far above yours as yours are above those of a chimpanzee.”
A naturally nice temperament is as corrupt and vile in God’s sight as a loathsome one, if it has not been crucified. Oswald Chambers said, “Beware of not going to the funeral of your own independence.” Our natural only becomes divinely acceptable, when it is under the supernatural control of God.
Oct 17, 2009
After the Miracle, the Means
“And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.” Once Jesus performs the supernatural in our lives, He expects us to use the natural. After the miracle, the means. True, the Lord will do for us what we cannot do for ourselves, but never will He do that which we can do. “[God] wilt make all his bed in his sickness”; but don’t look for Him to straighten the sheets once you’re up-and-around. Then you can make your own bed! God raised Jesus, but He folded His own grave clothes.
After the mountain is removed and drowning in the sea, we’re not to stand idle. As the old song goes, “These shoes were made for walkin.” When God did His part at the Red Sea, He told Moses to “get a move on,” that is to say, “go forward.” Far too many of God’s people are waiting for a miracle, while God is waiting for them to use the means He has put at their disposal. No one in the Bible had a miracle performed on his or her behalf, who was sitting around looking for one.
We are to use God-given means up to, and immediately following, the miracle. Miracles are the exceptions; means are the rule of life. Always be thinking about what you can do in hard situations; then when you come to the end of yourself, God will take up the problem. God still gets glory when we use our sanctified brain to get out of a mess, just as long as we realize that it is He who initiated the idea (Phil.3:12-13). We need to follow my wife’s favorite cartoon character’s advice, “Think, Think, Think,” says Winnie the Pooh.
Remember, it was Sovereignty that devised the means.
After the mountain is removed and drowning in the sea, we’re not to stand idle. As the old song goes, “These shoes were made for walkin.” When God did His part at the Red Sea, He told Moses to “get a move on,” that is to say, “go forward.” Far too many of God’s people are waiting for a miracle, while God is waiting for them to use the means He has put at their disposal. No one in the Bible had a miracle performed on his or her behalf, who was sitting around looking for one.
We are to use God-given means up to, and immediately following, the miracle. Miracles are the exceptions; means are the rule of life. Always be thinking about what you can do in hard situations; then when you come to the end of yourself, God will take up the problem. God still gets glory when we use our sanctified brain to get out of a mess, just as long as we realize that it is He who initiated the idea (Phil.3:12-13). We need to follow my wife’s favorite cartoon character’s advice, “Think, Think, Think,” says Winnie the Pooh.
Remember, it was Sovereignty that devised the means.
Oct 14, 2009
The Manhood of Elijah
The Bible tells us, “Elijah was a man...” In today’s society, there is a great emphasis on certain forms of life becoming extinct. One particular species that falls under this category is a real man; he is a rare breed. There seems to be few who care that he is passing off the scene. I remember, as a boy, coming from a broken home, and having no masculine example to follow. Yet, in spite of this, my greatest desire was to be a man’s man. This desire has never left me throughout the years. Just because one is a male does not necessarily make him a man. Nor does being a Christian guarantee it.
What is a man? It’s neither brawn nor brains. They come in all different sizes and vary in intellect. But all have one characteristic that marks them: in any situation that arises in life, you can always depend on him to do what needs to be done, on the basis that it simply needs to be done. It matters not to him that his personal safety, comfort, and reputation may be in jeopardy.
He is not without shortcomings. All are aware of them. He doesn’t put cosmetics on his blemishes. What you see is what you get. But of one thing you can be sure; when he faces his Goliath’s in life, He will not run from them, for he doesn’t know how to retreat. His inbred principles will not allow him to flee from his responsibilities. His principles are not negotiable; they are unchangeable. They are not open for debate. To the Christian man, they are eternal principles.
What is a man? It’s neither brawn nor brains. They come in all different sizes and vary in intellect. But all have one characteristic that marks them: in any situation that arises in life, you can always depend on him to do what needs to be done, on the basis that it simply needs to be done. It matters not to him that his personal safety, comfort, and reputation may be in jeopardy.
He is not without shortcomings. All are aware of them. He doesn’t put cosmetics on his blemishes. What you see is what you get. But of one thing you can be sure; when he faces his Goliath’s in life, He will not run from them, for he doesn’t know how to retreat. His inbred principles will not allow him to flee from his responsibilities. His principles are not negotiable; they are unchangeable. They are not open for debate. To the Christian man, they are eternal principles.
*No Fool's Paradise
“Experience is the best teacher.” I’ve heard that from childhood. I don’t believe it. Instruction is the best teacher. But, admittedly, experience comes in a close second. Most of us refuse the best way and choose to learn the hard way. It’s important to realize experience is not out to deceive us; it’s out to teach us. If we do not learn from bad experiences, we are destined to repeat them.
We are to live and learn. Not to learn is a miserable way to live. To play the fool once is understandable. To do it a second time is inexcusable. To this type of person, you can justifiably attach the adage, “There’s no fool like an old fool.” Or, “Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me.” Let’s stop playing the fool.
Don't give cherries to pigs or advice to fools. ~Irish Proverb
We are to live and learn. Not to learn is a miserable way to live. To play the fool once is understandable. To do it a second time is inexcusable. To this type of person, you can justifiably attach the adage, “There’s no fool like an old fool.” Or, “Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me.” Let’s stop playing the fool.
Don't give cherries to pigs or advice to fools. ~Irish Proverb
Oct 13, 2009
*Fusing
"Doing the will of God from the heart." Knowing the will of God has to do with the head; doing the will of God, with the heart. The former is a must, and has to do with the intellectual; but the latter is just as important, dealing with the emotional. The heart is where the fire lies; therefore the will of God is to be done with fervency.
Paul said, "For if I do this thing willingly…but if against my will…" The will of God is not to be done grudgingly, but delightfully. Jesus said, "I delight to do thy will, O my God." They did not have to drag Him to the Cross. The will of God is always more than we bargained for. Therefore, we need to cease our bartering with God. Jacob would be the first to tell you it doesn't work.
When the head and the heart fuse together, you have a completed Christian.
Paul said, "For if I do this thing willingly…but if against my will…" The will of God is not to be done grudgingly, but delightfully. Jesus said, "I delight to do thy will, O my God." They did not have to drag Him to the Cross. The will of God is always more than we bargained for. Therefore, we need to cease our bartering with God. Jacob would be the first to tell you it doesn't work.
When the head and the heart fuse together, you have a completed Christian.
Oct 7, 2009
*A.W. Tozer, the Devil, and Us
For those who may not know, A.W. Tozer was one of the greatest devotional writers of the 20th Century, and in some minds, among the grandest in the Church’s history. He met the devil head-on at every turn in life. And as a result, to quote his own words, “…that doesn’t make a man easy to live with.” Speaking to God’s people, he went on to say, “It is a delightful thing when you know that you are close enough to the adversary that you can hear him roar! Too many Christians never get into ‘lion country at all.”
I have found run-of-the-mill Christians never get into the arena with this fiercest of all God’s creatures. Their only boast is that they have put some tamed baby kitten to scrambling from them for fear. But to say they have resisted “The Big Cat,” and put him on the run, in this they’re embarrassingly mute. One can only conclude the reason for this is because they’re going the same way; and it’s improbable that you will run into someone, unless you’re coming from opposite directions.
To Satan, those early Christians were delicious “cat food.” Today’s professors are disgustingly tasteless to him; they have lost their savor.
I have found run-of-the-mill Christians never get into the arena with this fiercest of all God’s creatures. Their only boast is that they have put some tamed baby kitten to scrambling from them for fear. But to say they have resisted “The Big Cat,” and put him on the run, in this they’re embarrassingly mute. One can only conclude the reason for this is because they’re going the same way; and it’s improbable that you will run into someone, unless you’re coming from opposite directions.
To Satan, those early Christians were delicious “cat food.” Today’s professors are disgustingly tasteless to him; they have lost their savor.
Oct 5, 2009
*No Private Corners
Adam had a level playing field before the Fall. But afterward, it was not so. Since then, mankind, like children trying to climb a muddy hill, keeps slipping, sliding, and falling. And by no means is this voided by becoming a Christian, for we still retain the Adamic nature. True, we have the Spirit’s indwelling to enable us, but Jesus reminded the disciples that though the Spirit is willing, the flesh is weak. A strong faith must still contend with a weak flesh. Ask Abraham, who was strong in the faith, but weak in the flesh.
Adam’s fall was the result of wanting to live independent of God, and that is why we believers, like the children mentioned above, slip, slide, and fall. And when doing so, we recreate Adam’s fall. Lets face it; no sooner are we out of bed, and having recognized God’s rights to our lives ,we take them back again before we reach the breakfast table. We dethrone Him and replace our self-will. We have forgotten our place. It’s at the foot of the throne, kneeling. Not sitting on it, ruling.
We are told in the Scriptures that “…ye are not your own.” There is no area of our lives that we can say to God, “This is my little corner; stay out of it.” Why? Because the four corners of the earth are His, and so is every corner of our lives.
Adam’s fall was the result of wanting to live independent of God, and that is why we believers, like the children mentioned above, slip, slide, and fall. And when doing so, we recreate Adam’s fall. Lets face it; no sooner are we out of bed, and having recognized God’s rights to our lives ,we take them back again before we reach the breakfast table. We dethrone Him and replace our self-will. We have forgotten our place. It’s at the foot of the throne, kneeling. Not sitting on it, ruling.
We are told in the Scriptures that “…ye are not your own.” There is no area of our lives that we can say to God, “This is my little corner; stay out of it.” Why? Because the four corners of the earth are His, and so is every corner of our lives.
Oct 3, 2009
Beware of the Middle Person
Those who use the acrostic, Jesus-Others-You as the true formula for joy, seem to always emphasize the last on the list as the greatest hinderer. But to touch the middle portion is a no-no. If one lives for self it is considered appalling; but if for others, there is applauding. The worldly philanthropist lives his life for others, but God receives no glory. Putting others first is no recipe for joy. You can be as miserable doing this as those are who live for themselves; ask any policeman, fireman, or doctor.
You will never get into hot water with the brethren for glorifying God, but you sure will by glorifying Him at others’ expense. To this day, Jesus is misunderstood by Christians who possess a humanistic spirit; and it is for something He said along this very line. Our Lord told His disciples that their love for him should so surpass their love for others, even their own, that it would look like hate in comparison. True, the two great commandments are to love God and others. But if we put the latter before the former, we wind up in the humanist camp, rubbing shoulders with them.
The Puritans, like ourselves, had short-comings, but God being supreme was not one of them. Every modern-day Christian should have a few Puritan writers on their bookshelf, which they read after on a regular basis. It will keep you focused, as the saying goes.
The absence of joy in a Christian’s life can usually be traced to someone taking God's place!
You will never get into hot water with the brethren for glorifying God, but you sure will by glorifying Him at others’ expense. To this day, Jesus is misunderstood by Christians who possess a humanistic spirit; and it is for something He said along this very line. Our Lord told His disciples that their love for him should so surpass their love for others, even their own, that it would look like hate in comparison. True, the two great commandments are to love God and others. But if we put the latter before the former, we wind up in the humanist camp, rubbing shoulders with them.
The Puritans, like ourselves, had short-comings, but God being supreme was not one of them. Every modern-day Christian should have a few Puritan writers on their bookshelf, which they read after on a regular basis. It will keep you focused, as the saying goes.
The absence of joy in a Christian’s life can usually be traced to someone taking God's place!
Oct 2, 2009
*Honorable Men and Women
“Naaman…was…honourable…but he was a leper.” Honor doesn’t negate defects in one’s life. We, like Naaman of old, can also be respected of our Master. In spite of all our shortcomings, we can still be honorable men and women. God knew about our undesirable traits when He saved us, but these did not turn away His love for us. Nor do these defective characteristics turn His head from us now. A marred vessel can be sparkling on the inside.
The greatest legacy we can leave our loved ones and friends is that we were honorable men and women. Beethoven said, “To me the highest thing, after God, is my honor.” Alexander Pope wrote, “An honest man’s the noblest work of God.” And the father of our nation said, “I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an “honest man.”
I for one want to be on God’s honor-roll. I know of no greater epitaph than “He was an honorable man.”
The only garment of clothing a man or woman needs in their wardrobe is “Honor,” it will last them a life-time.
The greatest legacy we can leave our loved ones and friends is that we were honorable men and women. Beethoven said, “To me the highest thing, after God, is my honor.” Alexander Pope wrote, “An honest man’s the noblest work of God.” And the father of our nation said, “I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an “honest man.”
I for one want to be on God’s honor-roll. I know of no greater epitaph than “He was an honorable man.”
The only garment of clothing a man or woman needs in their wardrobe is “Honor,” it will last them a life-time.
Oct 1, 2009
Those Confounded Distractions
The word “distract” comes from the Latin and means “to draw apart.” Webster defines it: to draw the mind away in another direction. The world, the flesh, and the devil will go to any extreme if they can divert a child of God’s thoughtfulness away from Christ. And the means used is not always evil and sensual; it can be good and scriptural.
To place one’s attention on the house, rather than the Builder; to be occupied with Moses and Elijah, and not concentrate on the Man in the middle; to be given to constant introspection, and not have Jesus as the center of our lives, can be more effective than all the other toys our devilish distracter dangles before us.
But, at the same time we must beware of placing too much attention on being distracted, lest that becomes the chief distraction. As someone has said “No noise is so emphatic as the one you are trying not to listen to.” We must accept the fact distractions will always be with us in one form or another. They are like the frontage road that runs parallel to the freeway. Though it’s there and you are conscious of it, you need not get sidetracked.
To place one’s attention on the house, rather than the Builder; to be occupied with Moses and Elijah, and not concentrate on the Man in the middle; to be given to constant introspection, and not have Jesus as the center of our lives, can be more effective than all the other toys our devilish distracter dangles before us.
But, at the same time we must beware of placing too much attention on being distracted, lest that becomes the chief distraction. As someone has said “No noise is so emphatic as the one you are trying not to listen to.” We must accept the fact distractions will always be with us in one form or another. They are like the frontage road that runs parallel to the freeway. Though it’s there and you are conscious of it, you need not get sidetracked.
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