“Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.” I have a little philosophical tidbit I try to live by. I’ve mentioned it on more than one occasion in the Journal. It goes like this: There is nothing perfect; there is nothing lasting; and you’ll never get it all together. Each of these causes my type of temperament much frustration, the last one probably more than the first two.
Life is like bobbing for apples. There will always be something popping up that demands our attention. When one is taken care of, there will be another to take its place. It is vicious cycle that will keep us dizzily going round and round, if we allow it. It is only outside the circle that we can see the whole. As long as we stay on this merry-go-round, we’ll get nowhere.
George McDonald writes: “No man ever sank under the burden of the day. It is when tomorrow’s burden is added to the burden of today that the weight is more than a man can bear.” This agrees with Jesus’ teaching to take care of what’s at hand and to not overly concern ourselves with what will pop up in the near future (Matt.6:34).
Mar 31, 2008
Mar 30, 2008
A Temporary Patch
Why do you think among today’s believers there is so much emphasis on this present evil world, and not that one which is to come? Why all the hullabaloo about here rather than here-after? Why the concern with the nasty-now-and-now, to the neglect of the sweet-by-and-by? We who name the name of Christ should realize our next major stop is Heaven. This present world, as we know it, is headed for a baptism of fire, only to leave all the things we cherish and cling to in ashes.
Here are some reasons that anchor us to this present evil world: exposure to science, falsely called, with its atheistic influence and bias; emphasis on the material in our secular culture; erroneous teaching of Eastern religions with the New Age philosophy; and being engulfed in social and political issues. As a tragic consequence of these, the Church has paid a dear price, substituting the Here for the Here-after.
As the song goes, “This world is not my home; I’m only passing through.” We are sojourners, not permanent residents. There is a whole New Earth coming. The best we can do with this present condemned one is to put a temporary band-aid on it. Dr. J.H. Jowett wrote: “I discovered that no man works less eagerly for the slums because now and then he has a vision of the city of God.”
“Pleasure, profit, preferment are the worldling’s trinity.” (John Trapp-Puritan)
Here are some reasons that anchor us to this present evil world: exposure to science, falsely called, with its atheistic influence and bias; emphasis on the material in our secular culture; erroneous teaching of Eastern religions with the New Age philosophy; and being engulfed in social and political issues. As a tragic consequence of these, the Church has paid a dear price, substituting the Here for the Here-after.
As the song goes, “This world is not my home; I’m only passing through.” We are sojourners, not permanent residents. There is a whole New Earth coming. The best we can do with this present condemned one is to put a temporary band-aid on it. Dr. J.H. Jowett wrote: “I discovered that no man works less eagerly for the slums because now and then he has a vision of the city of God.”
“Pleasure, profit, preferment are the worldling’s trinity.” (John Trapp-Puritan)
Mar 29, 2008
*Christians Are Not Exempt
“[A]t even my wife died; and I did in the morning as I was commanded.” God had forewarned Ezekiel that He would remove from him the joy of his life, when he told him, “I take away from thee the desire of thine eyes with a stroke.” What is one to do when loved ones are taken, health breaks down, children go wrong, and we experience financial set backs? In spite of sounding overly simplistic, we go on. In the bad times as well as the good, life goes on. And, like it or not, we are carried along by the same current as others. We are not any different or better. Christians are not exempt.
Our text teaches us that, after we have buried our losses, we are to do as we are commanded. Our personal griefs are to give way, and submit, to Divine direction. Our disposition at such times makes little difference. If we are living to please God, then life’s hurts will be easier to bear. How many servants of God can testify after a gloomy evening, there was a glorious sunrise awaiting them.
There is a great difference between the world’s “ups and downs” and the Christian’s "downs and ups”. (Psl.139:2,a)
Our text teaches us that, after we have buried our losses, we are to do as we are commanded. Our personal griefs are to give way, and submit, to Divine direction. Our disposition at such times makes little difference. If we are living to please God, then life’s hurts will be easier to bear. How many servants of God can testify after a gloomy evening, there was a glorious sunrise awaiting them.
There is a great difference between the world’s “ups and downs” and the Christian’s "downs and ups”. (Psl.139:2,a)
Mar 27, 2008
Awed by the Almighty
“Stand in awe, and sin not.” Webster’s definition of the little word “awe,” is as follows: 1) an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, fear, or wonder produced by that which is grand, sublime, extremely powerful, etc.; 2) to inspire or fill with awe; 3) to influence by awe, awed them to obedience.
One good remedy for sin is to be awed by the Almighty. The reason for most, if not all the trouble in the Church today is that we have lost “the wonder of it all.” The reverence, majesty, and glory of “the Lamb that sitteth upon the throne,” is no longer preached from most of the pulpits of our country. The average sermon could be found in any “self-help” book. This is the cause for so many anemic churches. When God is preached, His glory soon fills all His house.
One Almighty is more than all mighties. (William Gurnall, Puritan)
One good remedy for sin is to be awed by the Almighty. The reason for most, if not all the trouble in the Church today is that we have lost “the wonder of it all.” The reverence, majesty, and glory of “the Lamb that sitteth upon the throne,” is no longer preached from most of the pulpits of our country. The average sermon could be found in any “self-help” book. This is the cause for so many anemic churches. When God is preached, His glory soon fills all His house.
One Almighty is more than all mighties. (William Gurnall, Puritan)
Mar 25, 2008
All Equal in One
A book about math says one equals one, but the Book of God teaches all are equal in THE ONE. Paul tells us, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” In Him, diversities of peoples become one.
When the Spirit of God is poured out upon a people, they rise to the place where they all flow together. It is so racially, for no longer are they Jew and Gentile. Peter and Cornelius lose their prejudice against one another. When the Spirit of God comes, He also takes care of our social problems. There is no bond or free. The master and servant’s distinction is lost in the Great Emancipator. The rich and the poor, the learned and illiterate—their pools flow together when the tide is high.
I spent some years living close to the ocean. At low tide, there are scores of separate pools along the seashore, but, at high tide, they flow together, and the distinctions are lost in union. It seem to me that in many of our lives it is high time for a high tide.
When the Spirit of God is poured out upon a people, they rise to the place where they all flow together. It is so racially, for no longer are they Jew and Gentile. Peter and Cornelius lose their prejudice against one another. When the Spirit of God comes, He also takes care of our social problems. There is no bond or free. The master and servant’s distinction is lost in the Great Emancipator. The rich and the poor, the learned and illiterate—their pools flow together when the tide is high.
I spent some years living close to the ocean. At low tide, there are scores of separate pools along the seashore, but, at high tide, they flow together, and the distinctions are lost in union. It seem to me that in many of our lives it is high time for a high tide.
Mar 21, 2008
*Close to the Cross
It was Evangelist D.L. Moody who said, “Never get further than a day away from the Cross.” It was here Jesus made a fool out of the devil (Col.2). The Cross was no afterthought with God. Jesus was God’s Lamb “…slain from the foundation of the world.” And our Lord well knew it. For, in reference to this historical event, He said, “…for this cause came I into the world.” God does not want us to forget it. This was His purpose in establishing the Lord’s Supper. It is God’s forget-me-not. “This do in remembrance of me.”
Years ago, after a village meeting in Alaska, the pastor was flying me back to the Anchorage airport in a small 2-seater plane. We ran into a snowstorm so bad that I couldn’t see the wings for the blinding snow. I asked how he knew where we were going. He pointed to the instrument panel, showing me a little cross-like needle, then replied, “Just keep your eyes on the cross; it will keep us safe and on course.”
Years ago, after a village meeting in Alaska, the pastor was flying me back to the Anchorage airport in a small 2-seater plane. We ran into a snowstorm so bad that I couldn’t see the wings for the blinding snow. I asked how he knew where we were going. He pointed to the instrument panel, showing me a little cross-like needle, then replied, “Just keep your eyes on the cross; it will keep us safe and on course.”
Mar 20, 2008
A Good Place to Start
Setbacks need not be permanent. Sometimes a step backward will take you two forward. Setbacks can be advantageous. One can get a clearer view of the landscape and what’s up ahead. You can get so close to the forest you can’t see the trees.
What does one do when he or she has lost ground? The same thing that our father Abraham did when experiencing a backward step. After we are told he “…went down,” it is recorded he “…went up,” and then it adds, “…he went on.”
Some of us are waiting for something to happen when what we really need to do is get a move on. Don’t wait until you get all your ducks in a row. There will always be one duck to break ranks! Go with what you have.
Begin your journey again from where you are. The Chinese proverb says, “A thousand mile journey begins with one step.” The quickest way to make progress is to advance to where you once were, and go on from there. It’s the old story of coming back to Bethel.
What does one do when he or she has lost ground? The same thing that our father Abraham did when experiencing a backward step. After we are told he “…went down,” it is recorded he “…went up,” and then it adds, “…he went on.”
Some of us are waiting for something to happen when what we really need to do is get a move on. Don’t wait until you get all your ducks in a row. There will always be one duck to break ranks! Go with what you have.
Begin your journey again from where you are. The Chinese proverb says, “A thousand mile journey begins with one step.” The quickest way to make progress is to advance to where you once were, and go on from there. It’s the old story of coming back to Bethel.
Mar 19, 2008
Satan and Time
“He knoweth that he hath but a short time.” In the Bible sense, any time is short compared to an endless eternity, whether it be one or a thousand years. Satan’s limited time accounts for the fierceness in his fighting. He is a conquered foe who refuses to admit defeat. In God’s omniscience, for some reason known only to Him, He allows the devil to continue to do battle with the Omnipotent and His children for a time.
Because of this, we Christian soldiers may lose a battle or two, but when, and if, this happens, it is important to remember Apollyon has already lost the war. This is the reason the old-timers used to say, “When you fall, shout the victory.” Every evil spirit, with their king, has an eternal place of punishment already consigned and prepared, just as our everlasting home of bliss is reserved and awaiting us.
We can be characterized as “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.” Sorrowful for temporary defeats because of our sinful natures, yet, at the same time, rejoicing because, as saints, there is eternal victory. So, when we are brought low, you may hear a little low-sounding bass in our song of Zion, but the high pitched treble sounds of the Hallelujah’s for our Victor almost drown them out.
Because of this, we Christian soldiers may lose a battle or two, but when, and if, this happens, it is important to remember Apollyon has already lost the war. This is the reason the old-timers used to say, “When you fall, shout the victory.” Every evil spirit, with their king, has an eternal place of punishment already consigned and prepared, just as our everlasting home of bliss is reserved and awaiting us.
We can be characterized as “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.” Sorrowful for temporary defeats because of our sinful natures, yet, at the same time, rejoicing because, as saints, there is eternal victory. So, when we are brought low, you may hear a little low-sounding bass in our song of Zion, but the high pitched treble sounds of the Hallelujah’s for our Victor almost drown them out.
Wounded and weak, the lame still take the prey.
Mar 18, 2008
*Continual Cleansing
“…the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” One need not go to the Greek to find out this is a present and continuous cleansing. The English word “cleanseth” carries with it both a present and progressive action. Because of this, in spite of daily defilement from sin, we can enjoy unbroken fellowship with God.
Confession of sin is not to be at the end of the day but throughout it. The Christian life is to be lived on a moment by moment basis. This is the way in which God keeps His vineyard in this world. “I the Lord do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day.”
As A.W. Tozer says in his book, I Talk Back to the Devil, “…when God forgives a man, He treats him as though he had never sinned…He starts with him again as though he had just been created and as if there had been no past at all.”
What God forgives, He forgets.
Confession of sin is not to be at the end of the day but throughout it. The Christian life is to be lived on a moment by moment basis. This is the way in which God keeps His vineyard in this world. “I the Lord do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day.”
As A.W. Tozer says in his book, I Talk Back to the Devil, “…when God forgives a man, He treats him as though he had never sinned…He starts with him again as though he had just been created and as if there had been no past at all.”
What God forgives, He forgets.
Mar 17, 2008
Truth in a Nutshell?
“Master we saw one...and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not...” (Mk. 9:38-39). Oswald Chambers said, “It takes God a long time to get us out of the way of thinking that unless everyone sees as we do they must be wrong.”
There are some rigid movements within Christendom who believe only they have a corner on the truth. In an overbearing, dictatorial way, they renounce all others as heretics or apostates. If you’re not a part of their particular denomination, or church, you could not possibly be right. This type of self-centered ego comes from the fact that they refuse to see the whole picture. The Body of Christ is much larger than one little group. It takes in all of God’s people, not a select few. It may surprise some, but there are still “seven thousand.” You need not get an Elijah complex.
I like what one old-time evangelist said years ago: “If a hound dog comes to town and barks for Jesus, I’m going to leave him alone.”
A man who thinks he is always right will eventually start playing God in other people’s lives.
There are some rigid movements within Christendom who believe only they have a corner on the truth. In an overbearing, dictatorial way, they renounce all others as heretics or apostates. If you’re not a part of their particular denomination, or church, you could not possibly be right. This type of self-centered ego comes from the fact that they refuse to see the whole picture. The Body of Christ is much larger than one little group. It takes in all of God’s people, not a select few. It may surprise some, but there are still “seven thousand.” You need not get an Elijah complex.
I like what one old-time evangelist said years ago: “If a hound dog comes to town and barks for Jesus, I’m going to leave him alone.”
A man who thinks he is always right will eventually start playing God in other people’s lives.
Mar 15, 2008
Responsible Knowledge
“And he said unto them, It is not for you to know…” Because we do not know one thing does not mean we are left in the dark about another. The disciples did not know the time of the establishment of the Kingdom, but they knew they were to be empowered by the Spirit. To not be certain of the one doesn’t release us from obeying the other.
We are obligated and responsible to do those things we know are right to do (James 4:17). There are superficial, professing Christians today who believe that because they do not understand one thing, they are justified in copping out of doing the revealed thing. To not understand foreordination does not excuse fornication.
“It is not the things in the Bible I don’t understand that bother me, but those that I do.” (Mark Twain)
We are obligated and responsible to do those things we know are right to do (James 4:17). There are superficial, professing Christians today who believe that because they do not understand one thing, they are justified in copping out of doing the revealed thing. To not understand foreordination does not excuse fornication.
“It is not the things in the Bible I don’t understand that bother me, but those that I do.” (Mark Twain)
Mar 9, 2008
*Heaven Helps Us
During a Bible conference some years ago, I mentioned to the people that there are various types of ministries. To explain mine, I said, in jest, “I’m not as interested in showing you how live in the ‘sweet bye-and-bye’ as I am in the “nasty now-and-now.” After my message, my good pastor friend, in all innocence and sincerity said, “You know, I find, when my mind is upon the “sweet bye-and-bye,” I live better in the “nasty now-and-now.” I took this gentle and instructive rebuke as from the Lord.
If you’re familiar with Bible biographies, as well as those written throughout history, you realize those who accomplish the most for this present world, were those who thought much on the next. They left their enduring mark upon this earth, because their minds were occupied with Heaven.
I believe the one main cause Christians are so ineffective in the world today is for this very reason; we no longer think of the other world. To quote one of my favorite authors, “Aim at Heaven and you will get the earth thrown in; aim at the earth, and you will get neither.” We shall never make a difference on this earth as long as the world is our main goal. We must learn to want something else more.
There will be no Heaven on earth until Heaven is in our hearts.
If you’re familiar with Bible biographies, as well as those written throughout history, you realize those who accomplish the most for this present world, were those who thought much on the next. They left their enduring mark upon this earth, because their minds were occupied with Heaven.
I believe the one main cause Christians are so ineffective in the world today is for this very reason; we no longer think of the other world. To quote one of my favorite authors, “Aim at Heaven and you will get the earth thrown in; aim at the earth, and you will get neither.” We shall never make a difference on this earth as long as the world is our main goal. We must learn to want something else more.
There will be no Heaven on earth until Heaven is in our hearts.
Mar 7, 2008
Know-It-Alls
God keep me from being a religious dogmatist, as Job’s well-meaning friend, Eliaphaz. But sad to say, how much like him we all are—flaunting our spiritual superiority, while we declare the cause of other’s misfortunes. What we say is often true—even eloquent, at times—but we do it with a harsh and hard spirit.
Webster’s definition for dogmatic is, “asserting opinion in a dictatorial way; opinionated.” I’m afraid this has been a picture of my life on many occasions. What an ugly one it is. Even now I am ashamed and embarrassed to think about it. We can tell people why their children go wrong, what is the cause of their sickness, the reason for their trials, and where they’re doctrinally wrong, etc, etc. We dogmatists have a hypocritical and pharisaical opinion on just about everything.
We can explain it all...till it happens to us. Isn’t it strange that when bad things happen in the lives of others, it’s because of something wrong they did; but, when it touches us, it surely must be for our benefit, to make us a better Christian. If we could (or would) only see ourselves as others do, we would keep a permanent black veil over that portrait.
May we stop trying to play God in everyone’s life. Let us be careful of being too dogmatic on minor doctrinal issues, and, by all means, stop interpreting events in the lives of others. It never occurs to a dogmatist that he could possibly be wrong. I cannot tell you how many times I have been.
As a dogmatist, I’ve spent a lot of time in the dog-house.
Webster’s definition for dogmatic is, “asserting opinion in a dictatorial way; opinionated.” I’m afraid this has been a picture of my life on many occasions. What an ugly one it is. Even now I am ashamed and embarrassed to think about it. We can tell people why their children go wrong, what is the cause of their sickness, the reason for their trials, and where they’re doctrinally wrong, etc, etc. We dogmatists have a hypocritical and pharisaical opinion on just about everything.
We can explain it all...till it happens to us. Isn’t it strange that when bad things happen in the lives of others, it’s because of something wrong they did; but, when it touches us, it surely must be for our benefit, to make us a better Christian. If we could (or would) only see ourselves as others do, we would keep a permanent black veil over that portrait.
May we stop trying to play God in everyone’s life. Let us be careful of being too dogmatic on minor doctrinal issues, and, by all means, stop interpreting events in the lives of others. It never occurs to a dogmatist that he could possibly be wrong. I cannot tell you how many times I have been.
As a dogmatist, I’ve spent a lot of time in the dog-house.
Mar 6, 2008
Unanswered Questions
My wife sings a song that says, “When answers aren’t enough, there’s Jesus.” When I was first converted, there was a preacher who used to claim he could answer any Bible question in fifteen seconds. I trust now, in his old age, he knows better than to make such a foolish statement as this.
Recently, I saw a beautiful teen-age girl with her mother. The girl had only a stump for a left arm. It seemed to be a birth defect. Had she asked, I could have quoted for her the Scriptures. But, truthfully, I didn’t have the answer. Yes, we are to take things by faith, but that doesn’t always supply the answers.
I’m told in the book of Job that there are over four hundred questions. Someone has said, “It is alright to ask God a question, but it’s wrong to question God.” With some of our perplexing questions, we’ll just have to wait till we see Him face to face. Until then, we need to go on our pilgrim way, singing in our hearts:
We’ll talk it over in the bye-and-bye.
We’ll talk it over, my Lord and I.
I’ll ask the reason; He’ll tell me why,
When we talk it over in the bye-and-bye
Recently, I saw a beautiful teen-age girl with her mother. The girl had only a stump for a left arm. It seemed to be a birth defect. Had she asked, I could have quoted for her the Scriptures. But, truthfully, I didn’t have the answer. Yes, we are to take things by faith, but that doesn’t always supply the answers.
I’m told in the book of Job that there are over four hundred questions. Someone has said, “It is alright to ask God a question, but it’s wrong to question God.” With some of our perplexing questions, we’ll just have to wait till we see Him face to face. Until then, we need to go on our pilgrim way, singing in our hearts:
We’ll talk it over in the bye-and-bye.
We’ll talk it over, my Lord and I.
I’ll ask the reason; He’ll tell me why,
When we talk it over in the bye-and-bye
"What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter." (jn.13:7)
Mar 5, 2008
Prayer Requests
“Let your requests be made known unto God.” Throughout scriptures we find kings, lords, masters, judges, fathers and friends granting requests to those who ask. Interestingly, God falls under each of these headings. If a wicked king granted a sinful woman’s request (Mat.14:7), most certainly our Wonderful King of Kings will His saints (Mat.21:22).
Paul doesn’t mention a “claiming,” or “demanding,” of things; but simply the making of a humble, submissive request. “If it be thy will,” was both Jesus’ approach and addendum to His request to God (Lk.22:42). He subordinated His desire, believing His Father knew best. We need to trust our all-wise God to decide which of our requests to grant, and which to lovingly withhold.
The Lord doesn’t need information; He knows our deepest longings before we ask. But He would know them from us. “Thus saith the Lord God; I will yet for this be inquired of by the House of Israel, to do it for them.”
To be sure, He will regard our prayers when they are in the form of requests (Psl.102:17).
Paul doesn’t mention a “claiming,” or “demanding,” of things; but simply the making of a humble, submissive request. “If it be thy will,” was both Jesus’ approach and addendum to His request to God (Lk.22:42). He subordinated His desire, believing His Father knew best. We need to trust our all-wise God to decide which of our requests to grant, and which to lovingly withhold.
The Lord doesn’t need information; He knows our deepest longings before we ask. But He would know them from us. “Thus saith the Lord God; I will yet for this be inquired of by the House of Israel, to do it for them.”
To be sure, He will regard our prayers when they are in the form of requests (Psl.102:17).
Mar 4, 2008
The Flavor of Life
“I hated life.” These words did not fall from the lips of a depressed, ignorant pauper who had no station in life, but rather from a king to whom God had given “largeness of heart,” as well as making him the wisest and wealthiest man in all the earth.
The things of this world bring no permanent satisfaction if God is not in them. Like sugar is to tea, so God makes our material cups sweet to the taste. When we seek first the things above the sun, we’ll enjoy the things that are under the sun. As Peter says, it is then that we can “love life.”
To live only for the “meat that perishes” will never bring perpetual happiness to the soul. Those who live only for the things of this world are constantly discarding them as children do who no longer find satisfaction from their toys. It is Heaven’s promises, not earth’s pleasures that give spice to life.
The blessings of earth become burdens when God is not in them.
The things of this world bring no permanent satisfaction if God is not in them. Like sugar is to tea, so God makes our material cups sweet to the taste. When we seek first the things above the sun, we’ll enjoy the things that are under the sun. As Peter says, it is then that we can “love life.”
To live only for the “meat that perishes” will never bring perpetual happiness to the soul. Those who live only for the things of this world are constantly discarding them as children do who no longer find satisfaction from their toys. It is Heaven’s promises, not earth’s pleasures that give spice to life.
The blessings of earth become burdens when God is not in them.
Mar 3, 2008
The Corinthian Syndrome
I tell young preachers who are entering their first pastorate to begin it by teaching through 1 Corinthians. Why do I say this? Because we are in the age of the Corinthian Christian. You cannot read through this book and not notice the similarities.
They boasted of their spiritual gifts, but never recognized the Giver; they gloried in preachers, but not in God; fornication was the accepted norm; they sued one another; they drank to excess, and came to church that way; divorce was rampant; their religious trinkets (idols) were more important to them than a Divine relationship; there was the masculinization of women and the feminization of men. We could go on, but this should suffice to prove my point.
What was the cure for such a people and church? Well, Paul did not give them a long list of man-made rules. He gave them a simple cure-all for everything. It has to do with ownership:
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s (6:19-20).
There is no spiritual problem that the filling of the Holy Spirit cannot solve.
They boasted of their spiritual gifts, but never recognized the Giver; they gloried in preachers, but not in God; fornication was the accepted norm; they sued one another; they drank to excess, and came to church that way; divorce was rampant; their religious trinkets (idols) were more important to them than a Divine relationship; there was the masculinization of women and the feminization of men. We could go on, but this should suffice to prove my point.
What was the cure for such a people and church? Well, Paul did not give them a long list of man-made rules. He gave them a simple cure-all for everything. It has to do with ownership:
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s (6:19-20).
There is no spiritual problem that the filling of the Holy Spirit cannot solve.
Feb 29, 2008
The Shadow of the Cross
“[H]is cross…a shadow.” Paul tells us both in Colossians and the book of Hebrews that the Old Testament was filled with shadows of good things to come. You can be sure whenever you see a shadow that there is something of substance close by.
The cross of Christ is outlined throughout the old Cannon of Scripture. Jesus Himself confirmed this when He told the people of His day to, “Search the Scriptures…they...testify of me.” Remember, all they had at that time was the Old Testament.
Let us then seek to see some shadowy shapes of His Cross under the old Covenant. That is, some outlines of the real thing.
1. The Passover Lamb’s blood was put on the two side door posts and the lintel above. The Cross!
2. The Tabernacle furniture was placed so that it made the shape of cross. The Cross!
3. The heave offering was vertical, the wave offering horizontal. Bring them together and they become perpendicular. The Cross!
4. When Joseph’s two sons stood before Jacob, their grandfather, he crossed his arms so that he could bless the second born first. The Cross!
5. Ruth did not lie along side of Boaz, but cross-way at his feet. The Cross!
6. Peter refers to Christ’s cross as a, “Tree.” At the bitter waters of Marah, Moses cast a tree into them, and the waters became sweet. The Cross!
Glory, glory everlasting
Be to Him who bore the cross!
Who redeemed our souls, by tasting
Death, the death deserved by us.
Feb 27, 2008
Vain Knowledge
All knowledge is futile without the knowledge of God. Socrates said, “I know only one thing, that I know nothing.” I cannot vouch that this was said in sincerity or with a false show of humility. But after studying the Holy Scriptures for half a century, it is plain to me that every worldly wise philosopher’s knowledge is vain.
Few there are who understand that the real issue among Job’s so-called friends was which among them had the greater knowledge. Each desperately attempted to exalt himself at the other’s expense. To paraphrase Paul, “…they did not know as they ought to know.” God tells us in no uncertain terms at the end of Job that these know-it-alls knew nothing at all.
Peter exhorts Believers in his second epistle, “Add to your faith…knowledge.” He goes on to describe of what sort this knowledge consists, “But grow…in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” The Christian’s greatest desire should be to know Him more intimately. Not the Christ of the world, but the Christ of the Word.
Jesus said, “Search the scriptures…they…testify of me.”
Few there are who understand that the real issue among Job’s so-called friends was which among them had the greater knowledge. Each desperately attempted to exalt himself at the other’s expense. To paraphrase Paul, “…they did not know as they ought to know.” God tells us in no uncertain terms at the end of Job that these know-it-alls knew nothing at all.
Peter exhorts Believers in his second epistle, “Add to your faith…knowledge.” He goes on to describe of what sort this knowledge consists, “But grow…in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” The Christian’s greatest desire should be to know Him more intimately. Not the Christ of the world, but the Christ of the Word.
Jesus said, “Search the scriptures…they…testify of me.”
Feb 25, 2008
Unbelieving Believers
The definition for the word “paradox,” in the American Heritage Dictionary is “a statement that appears to contradict itself, or be contrary to common sense, but that may be true.” The term “unbelieving believers” would fit under this heading. Contrary to reason, there are those among us believers, who manifest unbelief.
For example, Thomas was a believer in the Lord’s substitutionary death, but an unbeliever in the resurrection life. The father who brought his child to Jesus said, “I believe; help thou mine unbelief.” He believed God “was,” but not the “rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Israel had faith to cross the Red Sea, but not Jordan. Each of the above examples show unbelieving believers.
Doesn’t it seem strange; we have faith the Lord will save us, but we have difficulty trusting Him for victory in our daily lives. Moses tells God’s people in Deuteronomy, “He brought us out…that he might bring us in...” Exactly the same faith that brought them through the Red Sea could bring them over Jordan to the land of milk and honey. But, Hebrews tells us, "They could not enter in because of unbelief."
Israel didn’t wade through Jordan; they walked over by faith.
For example, Thomas was a believer in the Lord’s substitutionary death, but an unbeliever in the resurrection life. The father who brought his child to Jesus said, “I believe; help thou mine unbelief.” He believed God “was,” but not the “rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Israel had faith to cross the Red Sea, but not Jordan. Each of the above examples show unbelieving believers.
Doesn’t it seem strange; we have faith the Lord will save us, but we have difficulty trusting Him for victory in our daily lives. Moses tells God’s people in Deuteronomy, “He brought us out…that he might bring us in...” Exactly the same faith that brought them through the Red Sea could bring them over Jordan to the land of milk and honey. But, Hebrews tells us, "They could not enter in because of unbelief."
Israel didn’t wade through Jordan; they walked over by faith.
Feb 24, 2008
Mr. In-Between
“How long halt ye between two opinions?” This is a difficult position to be in. It is doubly true when either choice will glorify God. To be in such a situation is to experience what the proverbial saying calls being “between a rock and a hard place.”
Not to choose one way or the other leaves things unresolved and us unstable. Therefore, it’s better to make a decision, even if it’s wrong. God can correct a wrong decision, but He can do nothing for no decision. It is said of Paul and his party, “…they assayed to…but the Spirit suffered them not.”
Do what you generally know the be right, and God will take care of the specifics.
Not to choose one way or the other leaves things unresolved and us unstable. Therefore, it’s better to make a decision, even if it’s wrong. God can correct a wrong decision, but He can do nothing for no decision. It is said of Paul and his party, “…they assayed to…but the Spirit suffered them not.”
Do what you generally know the be right, and God will take care of the specifics.
Feb 21, 2008
The Christian's Great Confession
Reading the title of this article, I’m sure many Christian minds will go to Peter’s “Great Confession” in Mat.16:16. I am not speaking of his grand doctrinal statement, but rather a practical declaration each of us needs to make before the world, as well as our brethren. Those among us who hold positions of influence need especially to affirm this fact loud and clear.
And what is this major acknowledgement? It is simply the declaration that, “I CANNOT WALK ON WATER.” We need to affirm to all that we are not “Super Saints.” There is no giant “S” on the front of whatever attire we may be wearing. Neither do we possess a monogrammed cape enabling us to soar above the common man. We are men of like passions as they are, and we dare not ever forget it. For to do so means God will needs clip our artificial wings to bring us back down to earth.
Heavenly people are to be humble, not haughty!
And what is this major acknowledgement? It is simply the declaration that, “I CANNOT WALK ON WATER.” We need to affirm to all that we are not “Super Saints.” There is no giant “S” on the front of whatever attire we may be wearing. Neither do we possess a monogrammed cape enabling us to soar above the common man. We are men of like passions as they are, and we dare not ever forget it. For to do so means God will needs clip our artificial wings to bring us back down to earth.
Heavenly people are to be humble, not haughty!
Feb 20, 2008
Bargaining Chips
If you know anything about the life of Jacob, you know he was a great one for bargaining with God. The only problem was, he (like we) usually came up short keeping his end of the bargain. The truth of the matter is, the sooner we realize that none of us have any bargaining chips with God, the happier and more content we will be.
I had the distinct privilege of spending a few years in N. Ireland. These dear people are known for their bartering ability. After some time of haggling, each barterer walks away feeling he or she got the better part of the deal.
The child of God who has learned not to try to barter with God will find he has gotten in on the best bargain of a lifetime.
I had the distinct privilege of spending a few years in N. Ireland. These dear people are known for their bartering ability. After some time of haggling, each barterer walks away feeling he or she got the better part of the deal.
The child of God who has learned not to try to barter with God will find he has gotten in on the best bargain of a lifetime.
Feb 19, 2008
Grace at Hand
“The people...found grace in the wilderness” (Jer.31:2a) There is no place grace cannot and will not go. When wickedness is great in the earth, when corruption is all around us, when violence fills our land, grace can still be found. Ask Noah!
We are strangers in a strange land, but we’re never strangers to grace. It follows us wherever we go and wherever we are. It is always nearby. We are never so lost or forgotten that grace cannot find us. When Elijah was discouraged and so depressed he wanted to die, He, Who is full of grace, showed up in the wilderness of his experience to sustain him by providing “a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head” as he slept.
And what was God’s purpose in His people finding grace in the wilderness? “I went to cause him to rest” (v.2b). And so it still is; we also can find grace in a weary land.
Grace is always at hand; just reach out and take what you need!
We are strangers in a strange land, but we’re never strangers to grace. It follows us wherever we go and wherever we are. It is always nearby. We are never so lost or forgotten that grace cannot find us. When Elijah was discouraged and so depressed he wanted to die, He, Who is full of grace, showed up in the wilderness of his experience to sustain him by providing “a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head” as he slept.
And what was God’s purpose in His people finding grace in the wilderness? “I went to cause him to rest” (v.2b). And so it still is; we also can find grace in a weary land.
Grace is always at hand; just reach out and take what you need!
Feb 18, 2008
Enough is Enough
We are told in the Book of God that Satan accuses God’s people day and night. He is relentless, there is no let up, until we say, “Enough is enough.” That is, we put our foot down and tell the indicter he has gone far enough, and that we’ll allow him to go no further. The best illustration of Satan being silenced in condemning the saint, I think, is found in Max Lucado’s book, “In the Grip of Grace.”
Sometime ago I read a story of a youngster who was shooting rocks with a slingshot. He could never hit his target. As he returned to Grandma’s backyard, he spied her pet duck. On impulse he took aim and let fly. The stone hit, and the duck was dead. The boy panicked and hid the bird in the woodpile, only to look up and see his sister watching.
After lunch that day, Grandma told Sally to help with the dishes. Salle responded, “Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen today. Didn’t you Johnny?” And she whispered to him, “Remember the duck!” So, Johnny did the dishes.
What choice did he have? For the next weeks he was at the sink often. Sometimes for his duty, sometimes for his sin. “Remember the duck,” Sally’d whisper when he objected.
So weary of the chore, he decided that any punishment would be better than washing more dishes, so he confessed to killing the duck. “I know, Johnny,” his grandma said, giving him a hug. “I was standing at the window and saw the whole thing. Because I love you, I forgave you. I wondered how long you would let Sally make a slave of you.”
Sometime ago I read a story of a youngster who was shooting rocks with a slingshot. He could never hit his target. As he returned to Grandma’s backyard, he spied her pet duck. On impulse he took aim and let fly. The stone hit, and the duck was dead. The boy panicked and hid the bird in the woodpile, only to look up and see his sister watching.
After lunch that day, Grandma told Sally to help with the dishes. Salle responded, “Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen today. Didn’t you Johnny?” And she whispered to him, “Remember the duck!” So, Johnny did the dishes.
What choice did he have? For the next weeks he was at the sink often. Sometimes for his duty, sometimes for his sin. “Remember the duck,” Sally’d whisper when he objected.
So weary of the chore, he decided that any punishment would be better than washing more dishes, so he confessed to killing the duck. “I know, Johnny,” his grandma said, giving him a hug. “I was standing at the window and saw the whole thing. Because I love you, I forgave you. I wondered how long you would let Sally make a slave of you.”
Feb 16, 2008
Outdated?
C.S. Lewis wrote: “It will not bother me in the hour of death to reflect that I have been “had for a sucker” by any number of imposters; but it would be a torment to know that one had refused even one person in need.”
We who have been burnt a few times in life by those we have helped, need not let one bad apple spoil the bunch. We ought not major on the nine who did not return to give thanks but the one who did. That one was worth all the rest.
Both laymen and leader are susceptible to this plague of the heart. Memory loss is no excuse for forgetting how much others did for us when there was no one else to reach out a helping hand.
One does not have to agree with or adopt the lifestyle of a drunkard, but certainly there should be some show of appreciation when such a person runs into a burning house and saves their only child. Gratitude is never out of date.
A brief note of thanks says more than a whole book.
We who have been burnt a few times in life by those we have helped, need not let one bad apple spoil the bunch. We ought not major on the nine who did not return to give thanks but the one who did. That one was worth all the rest.
Both laymen and leader are susceptible to this plague of the heart. Memory loss is no excuse for forgetting how much others did for us when there was no one else to reach out a helping hand.
One does not have to agree with or adopt the lifestyle of a drunkard, but certainly there should be some show of appreciation when such a person runs into a burning house and saves their only child. Gratitude is never out of date.
A brief note of thanks says more than a whole book.
*Something You Can Hang Your Hat On
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.” His methods may change, but never the Man. His sterling character is changeless. Paul was telling these primitive believers that the God of the Old Testament saints was the same in their times. And added that He will remain such even unto our day. Therefore we can repeat this precious promise to our generation. He is the same in the 21st century as He was in the 1st. And He will continue to be such forever. That’s something you can depend on.
If at one time he loved you, He loves you still; if at one time He was with you, He is with you still; if at one time He owned you as His own, then He owns you still. We do not have a fickle Savior, but a faithful one. Ours is not a vacillating God; He is covenant-keeping one. Christ is changeless in a changeable world. Or as the hymn writer wrote: “Change and decay in all around I see: O Thou Who changes not, abide with me.”
Christ is the Rock that keeps the rock of Gibraltar steady.
If at one time he loved you, He loves you still; if at one time He was with you, He is with you still; if at one time He owned you as His own, then He owns you still. We do not have a fickle Savior, but a faithful one. Ours is not a vacillating God; He is covenant-keeping one. Christ is changeless in a changeable world. Or as the hymn writer wrote: “Change and decay in all around I see: O Thou Who changes not, abide with me.”
Christ is the Rock that keeps the rock of Gibraltar steady.
Feb 14, 2008
Brain-dead Believers
“Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” Many ministries today have degenerated into Nicolaitism. That is, the clergy over the laity. Our modern equivalent of this word would be totalitarianism, which Webster defines as meaning: 1) does not tolerate parties of different opinions; 2) dictates over various aspects of life; 3) has authoritative control over freedom, will, or thought.
How do such ministries come to fruition, and even flourish? Invariably, it is when God’s people stop thinking for themselves, and let others do it for them. If you can get a man to think like you, you have captured him. Ideals are the most powerful weapons in the world. All dictators and conquerors realize this. This is why thinkers are threats to tyrants.
The two-fold danger we face is either having a closed mind that is open to nothing; or an open one that takes in everything. What is needed is a spiritually discerning mind in all things.
If you think outside the box, it will lead you inside the veil.
How do such ministries come to fruition, and even flourish? Invariably, it is when God’s people stop thinking for themselves, and let others do it for them. If you can get a man to think like you, you have captured him. Ideals are the most powerful weapons in the world. All dictators and conquerors realize this. This is why thinkers are threats to tyrants.
The two-fold danger we face is either having a closed mind that is open to nothing; or an open one that takes in everything. What is needed is a spiritually discerning mind in all things.
If you think outside the box, it will lead you inside the veil.
Feb 13, 2008
Bondage
The religious professors of Jesus day fancifully imagined themselves to have never been in bondage, and were quick to tell Him so. But sheep can’t pull the wool over the Shepherd’s eyes. He was more than familiar with their history (as He is ours). They had been in bondage in Egypt for some four hundred years, in Babylonian bondage seventy years, and at the time of their fabricated statement, were in bondage to Rome.
Why is it we are so slow to admit we are in bondage to something or someone? Is it not because we desperately want to believe we are in control? The truth is we are all in bondage, one way or the other. If one is not a bond-slave to Jesus Christ, then he or she is to the world, the flesh, or the devil. There are varieties of ways in which one can be in bondage to either things or people. For example, we can be in bondage to our appetites, thoughts, enjoyments, and emotions, as well as to family, friends, and religious leaders; to name just a few.
Peter tells us in his second epistle, “…for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.” The quickest way to break anything that enslaves you is to make yourself a bond-servant to Jesus Christ. You are free when you’re bound to Christ. When we can say from our hearts, “I will not let thee go,” it is then the hold other things have on us, strangely lets go.
It’s well to remember, we are in bondage to whatever we cannot part with.
Why is it we are so slow to admit we are in bondage to something or someone? Is it not because we desperately want to believe we are in control? The truth is we are all in bondage, one way or the other. If one is not a bond-slave to Jesus Christ, then he or she is to the world, the flesh, or the devil. There are varieties of ways in which one can be in bondage to either things or people. For example, we can be in bondage to our appetites, thoughts, enjoyments, and emotions, as well as to family, friends, and religious leaders; to name just a few.
Peter tells us in his second epistle, “…for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.” The quickest way to break anything that enslaves you is to make yourself a bond-servant to Jesus Christ. You are free when you’re bound to Christ. When we can say from our hearts, “I will not let thee go,” it is then the hold other things have on us, strangely lets go.
It’s well to remember, we are in bondage to whatever we cannot part with.
Feb 10, 2008
*Settled as Cement
“Settle it therefore in your hearts...” If you’re ever going to transact business with God, it must be done from the conference room of your heart. All the issues of life come from this little room. Once things are settled there, you can go forward without fear. Very few things, if any, can stop you once things are settled in this sacred room. Divine determination will characterize your life.
It is within the confines of the four walls of the heart that purposes are fixed. They are settled like cement. This is what carried young Daniel through life. Once he had “purposed in his heart...” it took him through the rest of his life till old age. Every unsettled thing in our lives, the devil will challenge us on.
We are always committed to the things we love. What are you committed to?
It is within the confines of the four walls of the heart that purposes are fixed. They are settled like cement. This is what carried young Daniel through life. Once he had “purposed in his heart...” it took him through the rest of his life till old age. Every unsettled thing in our lives, the devil will challenge us on.
We are always committed to the things we love. What are you committed to?
Feb 5, 2008
Friendship's Necessity
There are several things that go into a lasting friendship, such as mutual loyalty, the ability to keep a confidence, as well as being comfortable in intimate conversation. But first and foremost, above all, true friendship is willing to accept the other, just as he or she is…warts and all. The famine of true friendship today can be traced to the fact that one or both party’s fears rejection. As someone has said, “A friend is someone who knows all about you and still likes you.”
We should constantly keep our friendships in repair. The wise man said, “…when thou art come into…thy friend…humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.” David and Jonathan are good examples of this. Their relationship epitomized what Aristotle said: “Friendship is a single soul dwelling in two bodies.” Again, it has been said, “No man is the whole of himself; his friends are the rest of him.”
Many of us, because of death or the fact of geography, long for the camaraderie we once enjoyed with friends. But to all you lonely, seemingly friendless souls, I remind you “…there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” And remember, too, it is He that said to His followers, “Ye are my friends.” The songwriters had it right when they penned, “There’s not a Friend like the lowly Jesus,” and “What a friend we have in Jesus.”
Thank God, He’s my Friend. He accepts me the way I am. And I have no fear of ever being rejected by Him.
We should constantly keep our friendships in repair. The wise man said, “…when thou art come into…thy friend…humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.” David and Jonathan are good examples of this. Their relationship epitomized what Aristotle said: “Friendship is a single soul dwelling in two bodies.” Again, it has been said, “No man is the whole of himself; his friends are the rest of him.”
Many of us, because of death or the fact of geography, long for the camaraderie we once enjoyed with friends. But to all you lonely, seemingly friendless souls, I remind you “…there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” And remember, too, it is He that said to His followers, “Ye are my friends.” The songwriters had it right when they penned, “There’s not a Friend like the lowly Jesus,” and “What a friend we have in Jesus.”
Thank God, He’s my Friend. He accepts me the way I am. And I have no fear of ever being rejected by Him.
Feb 1, 2008
He Stole My Heart
I feel like Samuel Rutherford when he said, “Since He looked upon me my heart is not my own, He hath run away to heaven with it.” Jesus Christ is my life; I’d like to believe He has all the love and loyalty this frail vessel is capable of giving.
But I blush to admit, because of this feeble flesh, I am not always what I ought and want to be to Him. But, blessed be His name, He has always been to me everything He promised to be. For half a century now He has been my Saviour, God, friend, lover, protector, provider, councilor, physician, and defender. I could go on and on, but as John the Beloved said, “…the world itself could not contain the books that should be written,” if I were to tell all He is and means to me.
I am grieved by professing Christians today who make much of God and little of His Son. A Christian can no more get to God by-passing Jesus than a sinner can. You cannot ignore God’s Beloved Son and honour God. “All men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father.”
The test for every false religion is, “What think ye of Christ?” Not, “Do you believe in God?” James writes, “Thou believest that there is one God…the devils also believe, and tremble.”
Contrary to the religious peddlers of our day, God’s emphasis is not on the family, politics, church, and pet doctrines, but on His Darling Son! Please listen to this old disciple, if you want God’s blessings upon your life and ministry in a very special way; then make much of His Son. Like any father, God loves it when His Son is bragged about!
But I blush to admit, because of this feeble flesh, I am not always what I ought and want to be to Him. But, blessed be His name, He has always been to me everything He promised to be. For half a century now He has been my Saviour, God, friend, lover, protector, provider, councilor, physician, and defender. I could go on and on, but as John the Beloved said, “…the world itself could not contain the books that should be written,” if I were to tell all He is and means to me.
I am grieved by professing Christians today who make much of God and little of His Son. A Christian can no more get to God by-passing Jesus than a sinner can. You cannot ignore God’s Beloved Son and honour God. “All men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father.”
The test for every false religion is, “What think ye of Christ?” Not, “Do you believe in God?” James writes, “Thou believest that there is one God…the devils also believe, and tremble.”
Contrary to the religious peddlers of our day, God’s emphasis is not on the family, politics, church, and pet doctrines, but on His Darling Son! Please listen to this old disciple, if you want God’s blessings upon your life and ministry in a very special way; then make much of His Son. Like any father, God loves it when His Son is bragged about!
Jan 31, 2008
Contemporary Christians
“And behold, there talked with him (Jesus) two men, which were Moses and Elias…Peter said to Jesus…let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said” If we are not careful, we too can put saints that are far removed from our generation on a level a notch or two above our present one.
The advantage of the “old-timers” was that they didn’t have to rub shoulders with us on a daily basis. Personally, I believe that there are those among God’s people today who, if we looked back in hindsight from the next generation, we would also put on a pedestal. We are told Moses and Elias were “men.” Yes, they were used of God to be a blessing. Still, they were only men of clay. Moses had his fits of anger, and Elias had his bouts with depression.
Contemporary Christians give themselves a bad rap at times, because well-intentioned writers elevate saints of by-gone years to positions that would cause those folk to blush, if they were here. Let us put on God’s specks, so to speak, when we look at others from the past. Then we will see men, not as trees, but as they actually are…men. And, to our delightful surprise, we will find they were people pretty much like you and me.
The only reason some hold contemporary Christianity in contempt is familiarity.
The advantage of the “old-timers” was that they didn’t have to rub shoulders with us on a daily basis. Personally, I believe that there are those among God’s people today who, if we looked back in hindsight from the next generation, we would also put on a pedestal. We are told Moses and Elias were “men.” Yes, they were used of God to be a blessing. Still, they were only men of clay. Moses had his fits of anger, and Elias had his bouts with depression.
Contemporary Christians give themselves a bad rap at times, because well-intentioned writers elevate saints of by-gone years to positions that would cause those folk to blush, if they were here. Let us put on God’s specks, so to speak, when we look at others from the past. Then we will see men, not as trees, but as they actually are…men. And, to our delightful surprise, we will find they were people pretty much like you and me.
The only reason some hold contemporary Christianity in contempt is familiarity.
Jan 25, 2008
The Wonder of God
I’ve observed that more and more Christians and ministers are frantically trying to fit God into our culture to make Him acceptable with today’s society. It is nauseating to both watch and hear professing believers making apologies for who God is and for what He does. The result of this is the humanization of God. Whenever we put God on our level, we are no longer awed by His attributes. It seems these miniature, would-be, pseudo-theologians think they can explain everything about Jehovah. But by attempting this, they take away the marvelous mystery of the Divine. What they miss!
We are plainly told in Scripture that God has secret things that belong to Him and Him alone. But those things He has seen fit to reveal, belong to us, and we can pass them down to our children. If there was ever a man who knew God intimately, it was darling David. Yet, when he wrote concerning certain things pertaining to God, he said, “…neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.” He goes on to say in another place, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.”
David was content with letting God be God; and so should we! If you don’t, you’ll lose the wonderful wonder of it all.
We are plainly told in Scripture that God has secret things that belong to Him and Him alone. But those things He has seen fit to reveal, belong to us, and we can pass them down to our children. If there was ever a man who knew God intimately, it was darling David. Yet, when he wrote concerning certain things pertaining to God, he said, “…neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.” He goes on to say in another place, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.”
David was content with letting God be God; and so should we! If you don’t, you’ll lose the wonderful wonder of it all.
Flat Tires and Suffering
I have known groups of Christians who believed that any type of suffering in the Christian’s life was punitive. That the person must have done something wrong, and God was punishing him or her. If they have a flat tire, the Lord, evidently, is chastening them for some sin they have committed. It never dawns upon them; tires get old and threadbare, and need to be replaced from time to time!
These dark-natured advisors tell the afflicted saints to scrape their insides until they come up with something, even if that something is not mentioned in the Bible as being sin. To be sure, there is a divine chastening, but God will not leave one in doubt as to the reason for His correcting.
People like Job’s friends can never see past their morbid mentality. It never occurs to them that a loving God is permitting suffering in one’s life to conform him or her to the image of His dear son. That God is whittling away on them, until He sees characteristics of His Beloved. So, let the chips fall where they may, just as long as there is a miniature image of Jesus left standing!
These dark-natured advisors tell the afflicted saints to scrape their insides until they come up with something, even if that something is not mentioned in the Bible as being sin. To be sure, there is a divine chastening, but God will not leave one in doubt as to the reason for His correcting.
People like Job’s friends can never see past their morbid mentality. It never occurs to them that a loving God is permitting suffering in one’s life to conform him or her to the image of His dear son. That God is whittling away on them, until He sees characteristics of His Beloved. So, let the chips fall where they may, just as long as there is a miniature image of Jesus left standing!
Jan 19, 2008
*Surprised By God
Jacob said to Joseph, “I had not thought to see thy face: and lo, God hath shewed me also thy seed.” God surprised Jacob by doing something for him that he never expected. Our God is full of surprises. It starts at the commencement of our Christian life. It continues throughout our pilgrimage, and I guarantee you, at the conclusion of our days, there awaits each of us the surprise of all surprises.
One of the most exciting things in life is the element of surprise. From early years to old age, it plays a great part in our lives. What young person is not thrilled by a surprise party? And what elderly person’s heart does not leap when their loved ones give them a surprise visit.
God knew how wonderful surprise would be to His children, and so it was not left out of our spiritual life. God delights to surprise us. This being true, I have a sneaking suspicion that God has a big surprise for some of us in the very near future. What an exciting thing to anticipate!
When you are pleasantly surprised, don’t forget Who planned it.
One of the most exciting things in life is the element of surprise. From early years to old age, it plays a great part in our lives. What young person is not thrilled by a surprise party? And what elderly person’s heart does not leap when their loved ones give them a surprise visit.
God knew how wonderful surprise would be to His children, and so it was not left out of our spiritual life. God delights to surprise us. This being true, I have a sneaking suspicion that God has a big surprise for some of us in the very near future. What an exciting thing to anticipate!
When you are pleasantly surprised, don’t forget Who planned it.
Jan 18, 2008
Selective Love
“Ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren...” I read recently of a preacher friend, now ninety, holding a conference in an elaborate hotel in Orlando, Florida. At his own expense, he invited various leaders of different Baptist groups to this meeting. The purpose? To teach them to love each other as well as all “good Baptists.”
As I read this article, not only did my heart sink within me, but I was embarrassed. I personally belong to an independent evangelical Baptist church, but it almost made me ashamed of the name, until I realized these people do not represent all of us. Jesus did not tell me to love “good Baptists,” but all the brethren, good and bad. My love extends to personal friends who are Church of God, Reformed, Brethren, Presbyterian, Charismatic, non-denominational, etc. I want to be sure my love includes “all the brethren” and not a select group.
Paul tells us we are “taught of God (this occurs nowhere else in the New Testament) to love one another.” They did not need special instruction; God directly taught them in their own hearts. It was a secret and silent instruction in the deep recesses of their souls. Therefore, they needed no man to teach them this.
The infant believer is born with a love for all his brothers and sisters.
As I read this article, not only did my heart sink within me, but I was embarrassed. I personally belong to an independent evangelical Baptist church, but it almost made me ashamed of the name, until I realized these people do not represent all of us. Jesus did not tell me to love “good Baptists,” but all the brethren, good and bad. My love extends to personal friends who are Church of God, Reformed, Brethren, Presbyterian, Charismatic, non-denominational, etc. I want to be sure my love includes “all the brethren” and not a select group.
Paul tells us we are “taught of God (this occurs nowhere else in the New Testament) to love one another.” They did not need special instruction; God directly taught them in their own hearts. It was a secret and silent instruction in the deep recesses of their souls. Therefore, they needed no man to teach them this.
The infant believer is born with a love for all his brothers and sisters.
Jan 15, 2008
*Shame on Us
“…the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.” Not wiser, overall, but, “in their generation.” Not in eternal things but in the temporal things of time, we are outdone by them. They excel us in such things as the handling of finances (text), skills in their trade, having high expectations, etc. They are prudent and industrious. They seize ever opportunity; no bargain passes them by. They are conscious of improving themselves both physically and intellectually. How different things would be for many of us believers if we were as diligent.
Another area in which they excel us, is not just employment, but enjoyment. We are told God has given us richly all things to enjoy, but we will continue to be miserable in this world, until we realize the Lord okays us using it, as long as we don’t abuse it. Our problem is we have departmentalized our Christian lives—one sacred and the other secular. But all ground is holy ground to a child of God. We can be as Spiritual when we play as when we pray.
Truly spiritual people can enjoy many of the carnal things of this world; but the carnal will never enjoy the Spiritual.
Another area in which they excel us, is not just employment, but enjoyment. We are told God has given us richly all things to enjoy, but we will continue to be miserable in this world, until we realize the Lord okays us using it, as long as we don’t abuse it. Our problem is we have departmentalized our Christian lives—one sacred and the other secular. But all ground is holy ground to a child of God. We can be as Spiritual when we play as when we pray.
Truly spiritual people can enjoy many of the carnal things of this world; but the carnal will never enjoy the Spiritual.
Jan 14, 2008
*A Trio of Blesseds
“Blessed be the LORD God…which sent thee…And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou.” Abigail’s admonishment kept David from taking a terrible turn in his life. The fact that the Lord used a “weaker vessel” to reprove David did not stop him from heeding her words. He recognized God's use of different instruments to checkmate his plans.
David did not only take this wise reproof patiently, but thankfully. This is seen in his trio of blessings. First, and foremost, for God bringing it, then for the advice itself, and finally for the one who gave it. How different he was from blinded Balaam, whose “…anger was kindled” against the very one who was attempting to help him. Is it not interesting, indeed, that God used a feminine gender to stop David, and also to halt Balaam? (Num.22:23, 25, 25, 27, 28, 33).
Whether it is her, him, them, or it, the issue is, “Is it the Lord speaking?”
David did not only take this wise reproof patiently, but thankfully. This is seen in his trio of blessings. First, and foremost, for God bringing it, then for the advice itself, and finally for the one who gave it. How different he was from blinded Balaam, whose “…anger was kindled” against the very one who was attempting to help him. Is it not interesting, indeed, that God used a feminine gender to stop David, and also to halt Balaam? (Num.22:23, 25, 25, 27, 28, 33).
Whether it is her, him, them, or it, the issue is, “Is it the Lord speaking?”
Jan 11, 2008
*The Time in Between
“And so, after he [Abraham] had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.” “For ye [us] have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” The early believers, spoken of in the Hebrew letter, were on the verge of giving up. Their endurance was running out. Their faith was faltering. They had not seen God’s promise to them fulfilled.
The reason for their dilemma (and ours) is that we do not realize there is a time lapse between God’s promise and His performance of that promise. There is a parenthesis of an indefinite time period between them. In between these two, we are to have patience. Remember that “whatsoever things were written aforetime [about Abraham, etc.] were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.”
The Divine advice to us is, “Though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Our blessed Lord in His last words to His disciples, before He went away were, “Wait for the promise...”
“The Being of God may as well fail, as the promise of God.”
The reason for their dilemma (and ours) is that we do not realize there is a time lapse between God’s promise and His performance of that promise. There is a parenthesis of an indefinite time period between them. In between these two, we are to have patience. Remember that “whatsoever things were written aforetime [about Abraham, etc.] were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.”
The Divine advice to us is, “Though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Our blessed Lord in His last words to His disciples, before He went away were, “Wait for the promise...”
“The Being of God may as well fail, as the promise of God.”
Jan 10, 2008
*Nestling in the Nest
A little girl’s memory verse was, “I will not leave you comfortless.” But when nervously quoting it before her Sunday School class, it came out, “I will not leave you comfortable.” We smile, but actually, both are true. We love the one but loathe the other. No young person likes to be stirred out of their secure nest by a parent. Nor is the Christian parent desirous for their Heavenly Father to destroy their nest of niceties.
The prophet of old tells us, “As the eagle stirreth up her nest...” The eagle has a strong affection for her little eaglets. Because of this, she not only protects and provides for them but also educates them to fly. They are heavenly creatures. They were never meant to wallow in the murk and mire of this world as a sow.
Whenever God takes away the comforts of our nests and begins to stir up things, it’s because He wants us to soar to new heights. Heights we could never attain or enjoy nestled in our nest made from the cheap things of this world.
Never fear to venture out of the nest. The everlasting wings will be there to bear you up (Ex.19:4).
The prophet of old tells us, “As the eagle stirreth up her nest...” The eagle has a strong affection for her little eaglets. Because of this, she not only protects and provides for them but also educates them to fly. They are heavenly creatures. They were never meant to wallow in the murk and mire of this world as a sow.
Whenever God takes away the comforts of our nests and begins to stir up things, it’s because He wants us to soar to new heights. Heights we could never attain or enjoy nestled in our nest made from the cheap things of this world.
Never fear to venture out of the nest. The everlasting wings will be there to bear you up (Ex.19:4).
Jan 8, 2008
*Habitual Prayer
The Bible does not say we should pray sometimes but, rather, at all times. It is possible to walk and chew gum at the same time. A mother can go about her daily chores and still be lifting her heart to God in prayer for her sick child.
Having a place and time to pray each day is a good habit, but when we leave our closets we are not to leave our prayer life there. David prayed three times a day, but that was not the only time he prayed. Read the Psalms and you’ll find he was a habitual pray-er.
The term “Breath a prayer,” has more Biblical truth connected to it than most of us realize. It is the very thing that sustains our Spiritual lives. Therefore we read in the scriptures that we are to be, “Instant in prayer”; “Always praying”; “Pray without ceasing”; Pray[ing] night and day”; “ Continuing instant in prayer”; “In everything by prayer.”
I like what my wife wrote recently in one of her articles, “My prayer life has evolved into more of an ongoing dialogue than a scheduled audience.”
Having a place and time to pray each day is a good habit, but when we leave our closets we are not to leave our prayer life there. David prayed three times a day, but that was not the only time he prayed. Read the Psalms and you’ll find he was a habitual pray-er.
The term “Breath a prayer,” has more Biblical truth connected to it than most of us realize. It is the very thing that sustains our Spiritual lives. Therefore we read in the scriptures that we are to be, “Instant in prayer”; “Always praying”; “Pray without ceasing”; Pray[ing] night and day”; “ Continuing instant in prayer”; “In everything by prayer.”
I like what my wife wrote recently in one of her articles, “My prayer life has evolved into more of an ongoing dialogue than a scheduled audience.”
Jan 4, 2008
Birds of a Feather
“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise.” It’s the wise person who chooses for his intimate friends, wise people. Character is molded either from the wicked or the wise. An individual shows his or her true colors by the crowd he or she runs with—“Birds of a feather,” you know. It says of the early believers that whenever they had a choice, “…they went to their own company.” Thus, we might say, they were known by the company they kept. And so are we.
If a man is to be good, he must, of necessity, spend time in the presence of good company. It rubs off. If you are habitually walking among flowers, you’ll pick up the scent. This is also true if one spends his time in a garbage dump! The people you are around can determine your soul’s spiritual richness, or they can play a great part in its poverty.
Therefore, don’t hang out with losers. They don’t expect to win anything in the game of life. They are failures and want all around them to be just like them. They believe it compliments their lifestyle.
If you want to gain new heights, run with mountain-climbers.
If a man is to be good, he must, of necessity, spend time in the presence of good company. It rubs off. If you are habitually walking among flowers, you’ll pick up the scent. This is also true if one spends his time in a garbage dump! The people you are around can determine your soul’s spiritual richness, or they can play a great part in its poverty.
Therefore, don’t hang out with losers. They don’t expect to win anything in the game of life. They are failures and want all around them to be just like them. They believe it compliments their lifestyle.
If you want to gain new heights, run with mountain-climbers.
Jan 3, 2008
Responsible Recipients
“…there is none of you that is sorry for me…” It’s difficult to feel sorry for some people. Here we have such a person. Saul stood head and shoulders above his brethren. He was a giant of a man. He held the highest position, and, along with that, came all the power and possessions one could desire. He had a loving son in Jonathan and a loyal friend in David. And best of all, the Holy Spirit was upon him.
I say it is hard to feel sorry for the likes of Solomon, Absalom, and Samson, to name just a few; men who had so much going for them. Individuals who had it all handed to them on a silver platter, so to speak. But, along with their blessings came great responsibility. “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required,” says our Lord.
Saul’s tribe, the Benjamites, were renowned for their precision in handling the sling “…every one could sling stones at a hair’s breadth, and not miss.” But if you don’t use your gift, you’ll lose it. It was David, not Saul, who brought down Goliath.
People who are blessed are not always blessings.
I say it is hard to feel sorry for the likes of Solomon, Absalom, and Samson, to name just a few; men who had so much going for them. Individuals who had it all handed to them on a silver platter, so to speak. But, along with their blessings came great responsibility. “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required,” says our Lord.
Saul’s tribe, the Benjamites, were renowned for their precision in handling the sling “…every one could sling stones at a hair’s breadth, and not miss.” But if you don’t use your gift, you’ll lose it. It was David, not Saul, who brought down Goliath.
People who are blessed are not always blessings.
Jan 2, 2008
*The Thing that Matters
Jesus told His followers to put God and His interests first, and He would throw in the goodies we all spend a lifetime seeking. God’s paradoxical way is to loose to get. He tells us if we attempt to go directly to the thing, bypassing Him, we’ll lose both.
C.S. Lewis had it right when he wrote, “Put first things first and we get second things thrown in: put second things first and we lose both first and second things.”
I have seen some professing Christians sidestep God and still get the “things" mentioned in our text; but invariably you’ll find they had to sell out to the devil to get them (Matt.4:9).
If one does not heed the Bible’s warning sign, and detours around God, then further down the road he or she will find disaster waiting. And if they continue on this wrong way, at some point it will no longer be possible to turn back. Remember, Esau got what he wanted but lost what he had.
C.S. Lewis had it right when he wrote, “Put first things first and we get second things thrown in: put second things first and we lose both first and second things.”
I have seen some professing Christians sidestep God and still get the “things" mentioned in our text; but invariably you’ll find they had to sell out to the devil to get them (Matt.4:9).
If one does not heed the Bible’s warning sign, and detours around God, then further down the road he or she will find disaster waiting. And if they continue on this wrong way, at some point it will no longer be possible to turn back. Remember, Esau got what he wanted but lost what he had.
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