Hebrews 3:12-19 (ESV)
[12]Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. [13]But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. [14]For we share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. [15]As it is said,
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.”
[16]For who were those who heard and yet rebelled? Was it not all those who left Egypt led by Moses? [17]And with whom was he provoked for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? [18]And to whom did he swear that they would not enter his rest, but to those who were disobedient? [19]So we see that they were unable to enter because of unbelief.
What is your responsibility to those whom you worship with? What is your responsibility to those who are playing church? In my opinion, I believe there are many who claim to be Christian, yet who have not believed in Jesus. Verse 12 talks about there might be any among you with an evil, unbelieving heart (Romans 10:9 gives the basis of salvation as confession and belief). These who are playing church may even lead us to fall away: so what do we do?
We are to exhort one another every day. “Exhort” can also be translated “encourage,” “invite” or “warn.” For myself, I find writing an excellent way to exhort: I am determined to let God have all of me (Romans 12:1-2) and to let His word change me (II Timothy 3:16-17). By writing these devotionals I am “inviting” others to let His word “encourage” them in their walk with the Lord and “warn” them about pitfalls that I experience.
The best way to exhort is to get involved with someone’s life. Instead of looking for their weaknesses so you can fix them (we know that it is only God who can “fix” them), we share with them how God’s word has transformed us in different situations. I, for one am, willing to put on the “counselor” hat a little too quickly instead of being an exhorter who trusts in the true Counselor (John 14:26) who uses God’s word to guide us.
So please, find a way to exhort those in your fellowship. Invite them to walk in God’s word with you as you share how He has transformed and is transforming you according to His word. Who knows - the one that is playing church may just come to full knowledge of God's saving grace through Jesus Christ.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Living in the Lord
Psalm 91:4-9 (KJV)
[4]He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
[5]Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
[6]Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
[7]A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
[8]Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
[9]Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
Look at the promises in this portion of scripture: God will cover you and you will trust it; God’s word will be a defense for you; you will not fear (terror, weapons, disease, darkness, destruction or being left all alone). Because you make God your habitation (dwelling place; refuge).
What is your fear? God will take it away. Use His word as a defense against what is thrown at you and totally surrender to the Lord your God – make Him your habitation.
[4]He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
[5]Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
[6]Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
[7]A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
[8]Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
[9]Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
Look at the promises in this portion of scripture: God will cover you and you will trust it; God’s word will be a defense for you; you will not fear (terror, weapons, disease, darkness, destruction or being left all alone). Because you make God your habitation (dwelling place; refuge).
What is your fear? God will take it away. Use His word as a defense against what is thrown at you and totally surrender to the Lord your God – make Him your habitation.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Turmoil of Temptation
Hebrews 2:18 (ESV)
For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Do you ever take lightly how much Jesus suffered when He was tempted? When we are tempted we are generally given two choices: 1) Trust in Jesus to overcome or escape the temptation (or) 2) Succumb to the temptation. Jesus had two choices too: 1) Follow the Father’s will (obey) (or) 2) Put His will first (disobey).
The choices are similar… but Jesus was not given a way of escape; if Jesus put His will first then there would be no redemption. Jesus understood and knew the consequences of His actions. He knew what He would have to face. Though Jesus was God, He was still man. Because He was man He suffered through temptation like we do (Hebrews 2:18; 4:15).
How do we act on this knowledge? Hebrews 4:16 leads us in this: “Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.” (HCSB) Jesus suffered that we might have grace. Jesus suffered that we may find help during temptation.
Jesus understands what you are going through. Jesus overcame what you are going through. Jesus will get you through. If He can save you from wrath and reconcile you with Almighty God, be sure that He can guide you safely through any temptation that comes your way.
For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Do you ever take lightly how much Jesus suffered when He was tempted? When we are tempted we are generally given two choices: 1) Trust in Jesus to overcome or escape the temptation (or) 2) Succumb to the temptation. Jesus had two choices too: 1) Follow the Father’s will (obey) (or) 2) Put His will first (disobey).
The choices are similar… but Jesus was not given a way of escape; if Jesus put His will first then there would be no redemption. Jesus understood and knew the consequences of His actions. He knew what He would have to face. Though Jesus was God, He was still man. Because He was man He suffered through temptation like we do (Hebrews 2:18; 4:15).
How do we act on this knowledge? Hebrews 4:16 leads us in this: “Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.” (HCSB) Jesus suffered that we might have grace. Jesus suffered that we may find help during temptation.
Jesus understands what you are going through. Jesus overcame what you are going through. Jesus will get you through. If He can save you from wrath and reconcile you with Almighty God, be sure that He can guide you safely through any temptation that comes your way.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Making the Most of What We Have
Psalms 90:10-12 (KJV)
The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
[11]Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath.
[12]So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
This passage reminds me to focus on what is important, because my days journeying on this earth are few. What is important you may ask? I am learning that I am a very simple person and that Matthew 22:37-40 sums up what I focus on: Love God and love others. How do I love God and others? John 14:15 answers the first part: I must learn and live God’s word. John 15:9-17 not only repeats walking in God’s word, but tells us to lay down our lives for one another – we show love to others like Christ showed love to us.
Jesus gave up His life for us so that we may be restored unto the Father. He knows the temptations we face (Hebrews 4:15) and still encourages us to put others first (Philippians 2:4). This is no easy task, but trusting in God is a great place to start. I try to stay focused (I did say try – not quite batting 100 right now) on what is important: Loving God (Learning the Word; Living the Word) and loving others (Teaching the Word; Preaching the Word) – Knowing Jesus and walking with Jesus. Daily submitting to Jesus through His word. Avoiding arguments and debates that distract from God’s word and gently restore those that deviate from His word (2 Timothy 2:14-26; Titus 3:1-3; Titus 3:9-11) in order that there may be repentance or salvation (1 Corinthians 10:23-33).
I encourage you (and myself) to take up Paul’s exhortation to the Philippians:
Philippians 3:7-16 (HCSB)
[7] But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ. [8] More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ [9] and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ — the righteousness from God based on faith. [10] My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, [11] assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead.
[12] Not that I have already reached the goal or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. [13] Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, [14] I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God's heavenly call in Christ Jesus. [15] Therefore, all who are mature should think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this to you also. [16] In any case, we should live up to whatever truth we have attained.
The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
[11]Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath.
[12]So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
This passage reminds me to focus on what is important, because my days journeying on this earth are few. What is important you may ask? I am learning that I am a very simple person and that Matthew 22:37-40 sums up what I focus on: Love God and love others. How do I love God and others? John 14:15 answers the first part: I must learn and live God’s word. John 15:9-17 not only repeats walking in God’s word, but tells us to lay down our lives for one another – we show love to others like Christ showed love to us.
Jesus gave up His life for us so that we may be restored unto the Father. He knows the temptations we face (Hebrews 4:15) and still encourages us to put others first (Philippians 2:4). This is no easy task, but trusting in God is a great place to start. I try to stay focused (I did say try – not quite batting 100 right now) on what is important: Loving God (Learning the Word; Living the Word) and loving others (Teaching the Word; Preaching the Word) – Knowing Jesus and walking with Jesus. Daily submitting to Jesus through His word. Avoiding arguments and debates that distract from God’s word and gently restore those that deviate from His word (2 Timothy 2:14-26; Titus 3:1-3; Titus 3:9-11) in order that there may be repentance or salvation (1 Corinthians 10:23-33).
I encourage you (and myself) to take up Paul’s exhortation to the Philippians:
Philippians 3:7-16 (HCSB)
[7] But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ. [8] More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ [9] and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ — the righteousness from God based on faith. [10] My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, [11] assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead.
[12] Not that I have already reached the goal or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. [13] Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, [14] I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God's heavenly call in Christ Jesus. [15] Therefore, all who are mature should think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this to you also. [16] In any case, we should live up to whatever truth we have attained.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Rejoice in Giving
1 Chronicles 29:9 (ESV)
Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly.
When is the last time you rejoiced when the plate was passed around? Truthfully think about this. Do you give because you have to or because you want to? (2 Corinthians 9:7). Sometimes it becomes a habit for me and I forget that giving is worship. When I give I acknowledge that the Lord is my sustenance (Matthew 6:11; John 4:34; Philippians 4:19). When I give I remember the blessings and how God has continually and faithfully provided needs. I remember what Christ gave for me on the cross and I acknowledge that everything including me (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) belong to God.
Why should I rejoice when I give? Because He has given me so much, with the most important gift is His love shown through the grace imparted to me by the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ to restore me to God the Father.
Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly.
When is the last time you rejoiced when the plate was passed around? Truthfully think about this. Do you give because you have to or because you want to? (2 Corinthians 9:7). Sometimes it becomes a habit for me and I forget that giving is worship. When I give I acknowledge that the Lord is my sustenance (Matthew 6:11; John 4:34; Philippians 4:19). When I give I remember the blessings and how God has continually and faithfully provided needs. I remember what Christ gave for me on the cross and I acknowledge that everything including me (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) belong to God.
Why should I rejoice when I give? Because He has given me so much, with the most important gift is His love shown through the grace imparted to me by the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ to restore me to God the Father.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Gentleness in Love
Philemon 8-9 (ESV)
Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, [9]yet for love's sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus.
I believe in this statement all of us can practice more. Paul was writing to Philemon regarding his slave, Onesimus, and asking him to take back his slave (more than likely had stolen from his master and ran away to Rome). Paul had led Onesimus to Christ (Philemon 10) and this slave had become a great servant to him.
Now that we have the background lets concentrate on the attitude presented in the statement in verses 8 and 9. Paul, as a spiritual leader and mentor, had the authority to command Philemon to do what was proper concerning Onesimus. Paul chose instead to appeal to Philemon on Onesimus’ behalf. Instead of forcing Philemon to do something, Paul chose to act in love by instructing Philemon why he should accept Onesimus back.
I find it awesome that Paul did not force a younger Christian to do something, but rather left it up for that Believer to choose to act in a way that proclaimed Christ. As a person who disciples others, I find myself wanting to tell folks what they should do. I am not the Holy Spirit. The best thing I can do is take time and search the scriptures with the person and let them be convicted by the Holy Spirit who will lead them in all truth. Notice also that I said that we need to take time and search the scriptures together – those of us in authority are held responsible, and we don’t want to twist the Bible to enable us to control others to our own will (Romans 15:1). We should desire that those we teach and instruct go to God’s Word and pray for guidance before they even consider coming to us concerning an issue or decision.
God is so patient with us (2 Peter 3:9) – we also should be patient and never use position to force or coerce another into a decision that pleases us.
Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, [9]yet for love's sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus.
I believe in this statement all of us can practice more. Paul was writing to Philemon regarding his slave, Onesimus, and asking him to take back his slave (more than likely had stolen from his master and ran away to Rome). Paul had led Onesimus to Christ (Philemon 10) and this slave had become a great servant to him.
Now that we have the background lets concentrate on the attitude presented in the statement in verses 8 and 9. Paul, as a spiritual leader and mentor, had the authority to command Philemon to do what was proper concerning Onesimus. Paul chose instead to appeal to Philemon on Onesimus’ behalf. Instead of forcing Philemon to do something, Paul chose to act in love by instructing Philemon why he should accept Onesimus back.
I find it awesome that Paul did not force a younger Christian to do something, but rather left it up for that Believer to choose to act in a way that proclaimed Christ. As a person who disciples others, I find myself wanting to tell folks what they should do. I am not the Holy Spirit. The best thing I can do is take time and search the scriptures with the person and let them be convicted by the Holy Spirit who will lead them in all truth. Notice also that I said that we need to take time and search the scriptures together – those of us in authority are held responsible, and we don’t want to twist the Bible to enable us to control others to our own will (Romans 15:1). We should desire that those we teach and instruct go to God’s Word and pray for guidance before they even consider coming to us concerning an issue or decision.
God is so patient with us (2 Peter 3:9) – we also should be patient and never use position to force or coerce another into a decision that pleases us.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Be On Guard: Division
Titus 3:10-11 (ESV)
As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, [11]knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
One of Satan’s best tricks is to pit us against one another. It is something we must guard ourselves against. This passage in Titus tells us to approach those who are causing divisions. In the context of scripture we should be doing this in a gentle manner in order to restore (see “Correction” from September 3rd). We are not trying to condemn others, but lift them up when they fall.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (HCSB)
Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. [10] For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up.
Any condemnation comes from God’s word from turning away from it. The New Living Translation of verse 11 points this out in a straightforward manner: “For people like that have turned away from the truth. They are sinning, and they condemn themselves.” God’s law brings us to Christ in order for us to receive grace through Christ (Galatians 3:25; Romans 7:7-12). We can choose to be under grace or to reject the conviction from turning from the Word (1 Thessalonians 5:19). All this to say, when we approach someone over being divisive we must do it in truth and gentleness and let God’s word through the Holy Spirit take care of the rest (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Verse 10 tells us to have nothing to do with this person if there is no change after warning them a couple of times. Is this to punish them? I think it is more for our benefit; we don’t want to stir up division ourselves.
1 Corinthians 15:33 (HCSB)
Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
Proverbs 13:20 (HCSB)
The one who walks with the wise will become wise,
but a companion of fools will suffer harm.
Seek to restore a brother, but be careful not to follow him in his transgression.
Galatians 6:1-2 (HCSB)
Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you won't be tempted also. [2] Carry one another's burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, [11]knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
One of Satan’s best tricks is to pit us against one another. It is something we must guard ourselves against. This passage in Titus tells us to approach those who are causing divisions. In the context of scripture we should be doing this in a gentle manner in order to restore (see “Correction” from September 3rd). We are not trying to condemn others, but lift them up when they fall.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (HCSB)
Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. [10] For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up.
Any condemnation comes from God’s word from turning away from it. The New Living Translation of verse 11 points this out in a straightforward manner: “For people like that have turned away from the truth. They are sinning, and they condemn themselves.” God’s law brings us to Christ in order for us to receive grace through Christ (Galatians 3:25; Romans 7:7-12). We can choose to be under grace or to reject the conviction from turning from the Word (1 Thessalonians 5:19). All this to say, when we approach someone over being divisive we must do it in truth and gentleness and let God’s word through the Holy Spirit take care of the rest (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Verse 10 tells us to have nothing to do with this person if there is no change after warning them a couple of times. Is this to punish them? I think it is more for our benefit; we don’t want to stir up division ourselves.
1 Corinthians 15:33 (HCSB)
Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
Proverbs 13:20 (HCSB)
The one who walks with the wise will become wise,
but a companion of fools will suffer harm.
Seek to restore a brother, but be careful not to follow him in his transgression.
Galatians 6:1-2 (HCSB)
Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you won't be tempted also. [2] Carry one another's burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Above Reproach
Titus 2:7-8 (ESV)
Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, [8]and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.
Can you always be above reproach? Is this possible? I can tell you first hand, not on my own strength. The charge to Titus here is straightforward: Live what you profess! And when you teach be pure, honest and genuine (live what you profess) with truth. If you are living in God’s truth through Christ, then being above reproach goes hand-in-hand with yesterday’s teaching (Titus 1:15).
Remember that we have the Holy Spirit dwelling in us and there to guide us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). We have also been charged to put God first and behave in a way that proclaims Him (Romans 12:1-2). To achieve “above reproach” is all about living for God and not for self (John 3:30).
Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, [8]and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.
Can you always be above reproach? Is this possible? I can tell you first hand, not on my own strength. The charge to Titus here is straightforward: Live what you profess! And when you teach be pure, honest and genuine (live what you profess) with truth. If you are living in God’s truth through Christ, then being above reproach goes hand-in-hand with yesterday’s teaching (Titus 1:15).
Remember that we have the Holy Spirit dwelling in us and there to guide us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). We have also been charged to put God first and behave in a way that proclaims Him (Romans 12:1-2). To achieve “above reproach” is all about living for God and not for self (John 3:30).
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Pure or Unbelieving?
Titus 1:15-16 (ESV)
To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled. [16]They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.
Verse 15 is a test for myself: “do I always think the best of people?” I can honestly say “no.” As a self-preservation mode, I believe there are those that have impure motives and I need to protect myself from them. Two statements I just made show that I can be unbelieving (self-preservation & protect myself). God has promises I need to trust in at all times:
Psalms 28:7 (HCSB)
The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.
Therefore my heart rejoices,
and I praise Him with my song.
Deuteronomy 31:8 (HCSB)
The LORD is the One who will go before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”
I’m learning to let the Lord protect and sustain me. I am fiercely independent by nature, but I have been learning over the last few years that real strength is in dependence on the Lord.
We still need to be wise on how we behave around others using the proper wisdom (James 3:17). Titus 2:7-8 (the next devo) gives us a good model of conduct around others so we can continue to be pure and trust in the Lord for the protection.
To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled. [16]They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.
Verse 15 is a test for myself: “do I always think the best of people?” I can honestly say “no.” As a self-preservation mode, I believe there are those that have impure motives and I need to protect myself from them. Two statements I just made show that I can be unbelieving (self-preservation & protect myself). God has promises I need to trust in at all times:
Psalms 28:7 (HCSB)
The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.
Therefore my heart rejoices,
and I praise Him with my song.
Deuteronomy 31:8 (HCSB)
The LORD is the One who will go before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”
I’m learning to let the Lord protect and sustain me. I am fiercely independent by nature, but I have been learning over the last few years that real strength is in dependence on the Lord.
We still need to be wise on how we behave around others using the proper wisdom (James 3:17). Titus 2:7-8 (the next devo) gives us a good model of conduct around others so we can continue to be pure and trust in the Lord for the protection.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Be Ready in the Word and Persevere
2 Timothy 4:1-5 (ESV)
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: [2]preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. [3]For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, [4]and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. [5]As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
How well do you know the Word of God? It’s a question we all should ask ourselves. Are you ready in season and out of season?
It has only been in the last couple of years that I have been able to memorize scripture (Psalm 119:11) – but what I have memorized helps me on a daily basis. I used to fall on the excuse that if I could remember what God’s word said, in general, I was doing good – this is the way I’m wired. So basically I was blaming God for my inability to memorize. What I was missing was discipline (and persistence) in my ability to be ready in the Word. We have a discipleship ministry at our church that focuses on teaching doctrine in seventeen lessons. With each lesson is 3 memory verses that support the doctrine being taught. The way I explain it to folks is that the memory verses are tools for our walk with Christ and the lesson is the instruction manual for using those tools.
How many of you have gone through “Masterlife,” “Experiencing God,” or any other discipleship/Christian life material and remember all the verses? Have you made the same mistake I have? Put more importance on mankind’s interpretation of scripture than on scripture itself? When we do that we put ourselves in danger of what Paul was talking about in verses 3 & 4. Know God’s Word. Be ready in season and out of season. Use interpretations and explanations to help apply the scripture better (as long as the interpretation/explanation agrees with scripture).
I believe the charge Paul gives Timothy applies to all believers, not just pastors. First, keep your wits about you – trust in what you know (God’s Word) more than what you feel (that midnight pepperoni pizza may influence you more than you think). Endure suffering (II Tim 3:12; 1 Peter 3:17). Share the Good News of Jesus with people (Matthew 28:19-20). Fulfill your ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12); all Christians are called to ministry for the building up of the body of Christ (the Church).
Rely on God’s Word and go forward in His strength.
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: [2]preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. [3]For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, [4]and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. [5]As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
How well do you know the Word of God? It’s a question we all should ask ourselves. Are you ready in season and out of season?
It has only been in the last couple of years that I have been able to memorize scripture (Psalm 119:11) – but what I have memorized helps me on a daily basis. I used to fall on the excuse that if I could remember what God’s word said, in general, I was doing good – this is the way I’m wired. So basically I was blaming God for my inability to memorize. What I was missing was discipline (and persistence) in my ability to be ready in the Word. We have a discipleship ministry at our church that focuses on teaching doctrine in seventeen lessons. With each lesson is 3 memory verses that support the doctrine being taught. The way I explain it to folks is that the memory verses are tools for our walk with Christ and the lesson is the instruction manual for using those tools.
How many of you have gone through “Masterlife,” “Experiencing God,” or any other discipleship/Christian life material and remember all the verses? Have you made the same mistake I have? Put more importance on mankind’s interpretation of scripture than on scripture itself? When we do that we put ourselves in danger of what Paul was talking about in verses 3 & 4. Know God’s Word. Be ready in season and out of season. Use interpretations and explanations to help apply the scripture better (as long as the interpretation/explanation agrees with scripture).
I believe the charge Paul gives Timothy applies to all believers, not just pastors. First, keep your wits about you – trust in what you know (God’s Word) more than what you feel (that midnight pepperoni pizza may influence you more than you think). Endure suffering (II Tim 3:12; 1 Peter 3:17). Share the Good News of Jesus with people (Matthew 28:19-20). Fulfill your ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12); all Christians are called to ministry for the building up of the body of Christ (the Church).
Rely on God’s Word and go forward in His strength.
Friday, September 4, 2009
God Gives Us What We Want
Psalm 81:10-12 (KJV)
[10]I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it.
[11]But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me.
[12]So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels.
Just a reminder – God will always be willing to fulfill our needs when we follow Him. He will also give us up to our own lusts and wisdom. We have a choice between God or the world and the Lord will let us have our desire.
[10]I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it.
[11]But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me.
[12]So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels.
Just a reminder – God will always be willing to fulfill our needs when we follow Him. He will also give us up to our own lusts and wisdom. We have a choice between God or the world and the Lord will let us have our desire.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Correction
2 Tim 2:22-26 (ESV)
So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. 24 And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, 25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.
What I need to do to correct; how I should correct; and why.
What I Need to Do:
How I Do It:
Why Do This?
If you feel the need to correct someone look at the previous to make sure it is done in a godly way.
Check yourself:
Is it out of selfishness? Are you seeking righteousness, love and unity?
Be careful on your approach:
Are you gearing up to fight or argue with your own wisdom? Are you ready to teach God’s word in the situation? If they are aggressive towards you, are you ready to be patient and gentle?
Make sure you motivation is right:
Are you correcting because you are right and they are wrong? Or are you seeking to share God’s truth with them in order that they may accept Jesus or escape the traps of the devil?
I just want to end this with verse 22, I believe this is the best encouragement on this topic: “So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.”
So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. 24 And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, 25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.
What I need to do to correct; how I should correct; and why.
What I Need to Do:
- Flee youthful passions
- Pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace with the brethren
- Avoid useless controversies
How I Do It:
- Don’t argue or quarrel
- Use God’s Word (able to teach)
- Be patient if offense is against you (patiently endure evil)
- Be gentle when approaching the offender.
Why Do This?
- If a non-believer: there is a chance they will be saved
- If a believer: God may enlighten them to His truth. With this truth, the believer may escape the traps of the devil (look at what the devil throws at believers to hurt us – the biggest thing is disunity).
If you feel the need to correct someone look at the previous to make sure it is done in a godly way.
Check yourself:
Is it out of selfishness? Are you seeking righteousness, love and unity?
Be careful on your approach:
Are you gearing up to fight or argue with your own wisdom? Are you ready to teach God’s word in the situation? If they are aggressive towards you, are you ready to be patient and gentle?
Make sure you motivation is right:
Are you correcting because you are right and they are wrong? Or are you seeking to share God’s truth with them in order that they may accept Jesus or escape the traps of the devil?
I just want to end this with verse 22, I believe this is the best encouragement on this topic: “So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.”
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Lots of Lessons in One Story
1 Chronicles 21:1-17 (ESV)
Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel. [2]So David said to Joab and the commanders of the army, “Go, number Israel, from Beersheba to Dan, and bring me a report, that I may know their number.” [3]But Joab said, “May the LORD add to his people a hundred times as many as they are! Are they not, my lord the king, all of them my lord's servants? Why then should my lord require this? Why should it be a cause of guilt for Israel?” [4]But the king's word prevailed against Joab. So Joab departed and went throughout all Israel and came back to Jerusalem. [5]And Joab gave the sum of the numbering of the people to David. In all Israel there were 1,100,000 men who drew the sword, and in Judah 470,000 who drew the sword. [6]But he did not include Levi and Benjamin in the numbering, for the king's command was abhorrent to Joab.
[7]But God was displeased with this thing, and he struck Israel. [8]And David said to God, “I have sinned greatly in that I have done this thing. But now, please take away the iniquity of your servant, for I have acted very foolishly.” [9]And the LORD spoke to Gad, David's seer, saying, [10]“Go and say to David, 'Thus says the LORD, Three things I offer you; choose one of them, that I may do it to you.' ” [11]So Gad came to David and said to him, “Thus says the LORD, 'Choose what you will: [12]either three years of famine, or three months of devastation by your foes while the sword of your enemies overtakes you, or else three days of the sword of the LORD, pestilence on the land, with the angel of the LORD destroying throughout all the territory of Israel.' Now decide what answer I shall return to him who sent me.” [13]Then David said to Gad, “I am in great distress. Let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is very great, but do not let me fall into the hand of man.”
[14]So the LORD sent a pestilence on Israel, and 70,000 men of Israel fell. [15]And God sent the angel to Jerusalem to destroy it, but as he was about to destroy it, the LORD saw, and he relented from the calamity. And he said to the angel who was working destruction, “It is enough; now stay your hand.” And the angel of the LORD was standing by the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. [16]And David lifted his eyes and saw the angel of the LORD standing between earth and heaven, and in his hand a drawn sword stretched out over Jerusalem. Then David and the elders, clothed in sackcloth, fell upon their faces. [17]And David said to God, “Was it not I who gave command to number the people? It is I who have sinned and done great evil. But these sheep, what have they done? Please let your hand, O LORD my God, be against me and against my father's house. But do not let the plague be on your people.”
None of us are beyond making a bad decision. If the person making the decision is in authority over you, express your concerns, but don’t fight – ultimately the accountability falls on them. If the bad decision is sin or leads to sin, don’t be prideful and stubborn: stop, confess and seek forgiveness. Own up to the consequences of your decision – do not blame others. If the consequences hurt those under your authority do your best to intercede (God blessed David’s intercession in verses 27 & 28).
Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel. [2]So David said to Joab and the commanders of the army, “Go, number Israel, from Beersheba to Dan, and bring me a report, that I may know their number.” [3]But Joab said, “May the LORD add to his people a hundred times as many as they are! Are they not, my lord the king, all of them my lord's servants? Why then should my lord require this? Why should it be a cause of guilt for Israel?” [4]But the king's word prevailed against Joab. So Joab departed and went throughout all Israel and came back to Jerusalem. [5]And Joab gave the sum of the numbering of the people to David. In all Israel there were 1,100,000 men who drew the sword, and in Judah 470,000 who drew the sword. [6]But he did not include Levi and Benjamin in the numbering, for the king's command was abhorrent to Joab.
[7]But God was displeased with this thing, and he struck Israel. [8]And David said to God, “I have sinned greatly in that I have done this thing. But now, please take away the iniquity of your servant, for I have acted very foolishly.” [9]And the LORD spoke to Gad, David's seer, saying, [10]“Go and say to David, 'Thus says the LORD, Three things I offer you; choose one of them, that I may do it to you.' ” [11]So Gad came to David and said to him, “Thus says the LORD, 'Choose what you will: [12]either three years of famine, or three months of devastation by your foes while the sword of your enemies overtakes you, or else three days of the sword of the LORD, pestilence on the land, with the angel of the LORD destroying throughout all the territory of Israel.' Now decide what answer I shall return to him who sent me.” [13]Then David said to Gad, “I am in great distress. Let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is very great, but do not let me fall into the hand of man.”
[14]So the LORD sent a pestilence on Israel, and 70,000 men of Israel fell. [15]And God sent the angel to Jerusalem to destroy it, but as he was about to destroy it, the LORD saw, and he relented from the calamity. And he said to the angel who was working destruction, “It is enough; now stay your hand.” And the angel of the LORD was standing by the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. [16]And David lifted his eyes and saw the angel of the LORD standing between earth and heaven, and in his hand a drawn sword stretched out over Jerusalem. Then David and the elders, clothed in sackcloth, fell upon their faces. [17]And David said to God, “Was it not I who gave command to number the people? It is I who have sinned and done great evil. But these sheep, what have they done? Please let your hand, O LORD my God, be against me and against my father's house. But do not let the plague be on your people.”
- Satan influenced David. David, a man after God’s own heart, was not above being deceived by Satan and taking an action against God.
- Joab respected his king when he believed the decision was wrong. How times do we fight tooth and nail with our church leaders over a decision they have made that we know is wrong? Do you let God have a say in it, since He is the one who put the leader in the position? Or is God so weak that He can’t correct His children, so you have been ordained to smite that leader because God has no idea what’s going on? Or could it be, that in your haste to be “right,” you are actually the one in the wrong? Joab followed orders, even though he didn’t think his king was making the right decision – David was ultimately accountable to God.
- David confesses his sin and asks for forgiveness. When David realized that He had sinned against God, he went to Him for forgiveness of his folly.
- David accepts the discipline of the Lord. Sin has consequences. David realized this and owned up to the consequences that had to come.
- David intercedes for his people. When David saw that his choice in consequences was hurting Israel, he went to the Lord and begged that all wrath be turned on him since he was the one who sinned in the first place.
None of us are beyond making a bad decision. If the person making the decision is in authority over you, express your concerns, but don’t fight – ultimately the accountability falls on them. If the bad decision is sin or leads to sin, don’t be prideful and stubborn: stop, confess and seek forgiveness. Own up to the consequences of your decision – do not blame others. If the consequences hurt those under your authority do your best to intercede (God blessed David’s intercession in verses 27 & 28).
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Led by the Father
Psalms 73:23-24 (KJV)
Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.
[24]Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.
There are verses in the Psalms that always comfort me. These two verses are no exception. Four thoughts to remember when things are tough:
Let’s just say over the last month or two (or week) everything started going wrong in your world: the water heater broke, the car battery died, you had an bug infestation, your son’s Xbox just bit it and the warranty isn’t being honored, your health has been a roller coaster, etc., etc.; the Father is there for you to guide you through: He will never leave you or forsake you; His strength is made perfect through weakness; His Word is always a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path; and when all is said and done, He waits to receive us into glory. Keep this in mind when the hiccups of life on this world occur so you can become more than a conqueror through Christ.
Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.
[24]Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.
There are verses in the Psalms that always comfort me. These two verses are no exception. Four thoughts to remember when things are tough:
- I am continually with God (because Jesus reconciled me unto Him)
- He secures me by my right hand (right hand being a symbol of strength – He is my strength)
- He is my guide through His Word
- When the pilgrimage on this world is done He has prepared a place for me in Heaven.
Let’s just say over the last month or two (or week) everything started going wrong in your world: the water heater broke, the car battery died, you had an bug infestation, your son’s Xbox just bit it and the warranty isn’t being honored, your health has been a roller coaster, etc., etc.; the Father is there for you to guide you through: He will never leave you or forsake you; His strength is made perfect through weakness; His Word is always a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path; and when all is said and done, He waits to receive us into glory. Keep this in mind when the hiccups of life on this world occur so you can become more than a conqueror through Christ.
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