Deuteronomy 15:7-11 ESV
"If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother, [8] but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be. [9] Take care lest there be an unworthy thought in your heart and you say, 'The seventh year, the year of release is near,' and your eye look grudgingly on your poor brother, and you give him nothing, and he cry to the LORD against you, and you be guilty of sin. [10] You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake. [11] For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, 'You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.'
Enough said. Not enough follow-through
Having been in very real need, I have been blessed by brothers and sisters who heard God's directive and have engaged and followed through. It was tough to ask and tough to receive but a blessing nonetheless.
"Poor" is a tough place to be.
Notice that this passage does not qualify poverty. It does not discuss the "why" behind the poverty it simply says that if one of our vrothers becomes poor we are to see that they are provided with sufficient to meet their need. It says we are to "lend" them whatever is sufficient for that need.
"Lend ?" Lend a poor person money? Yep, that's what is says (and remember the law against charging interest). It's tough to think of lending a poor person money. It's easier to just give it to them, and that'66s ok too but when you lend it to them, you are invested in their growing out of poverty. You have an interest in their overcoming whatever their negative circumstance is and going on to be lifted out of their poverty. This is a good motivator for the giver to stay engaged in the life of the one in need.
Giving them what they need is a good thing but jt can be a kind of "fire and forget" blessing. It's real easy to just give and walk away feelimg good about having given. But, if we take the injunction to "lend" them what they need seriously we can't just walk away. We take on some form of responsibility with them for the bettermemt of their condition. That's charity plus! That is the will of the Lord. That is part of of the plan.
With many if not most of the "poor," something has occured in their lives to cast then into that condition. It is God's will that they not remain in that condition but that they rise from it. That means that besides the poverty, the cause needs to be addressed. Thatxs phase two of God's answer to the poor brother's need and one He thoroughly expects us to have a part in. Whether we take direct and intimate action for their benefit or we help them aquire the connections and resources they need, we are not allowed to "fire and forget" our blessing to them.
The whole notion of lending to the poor is to keep us engaged in their progress. Charity is tough to give and tough to take but to just drop a gift on them and drop out of their lives is just cruel. It's saying, "Here's some stuff, lots of luck you are on your own." Well, being on their own probably contributed to their becoming poor. Leaving them to their own devices, even with a generous gift, is not going to help them the way they need help!
Having a lending mindset also creates a covenant between you and them. There are legitimate expectations that need to be made clear and carried out. If one lends, one has the right to expect a return. But a return is only possible when the one lended to is willing to be helped beyond the lending. He that is lent to incures an obljgation beyond simple repayment. They incure the obigation to work to address the cause not just the condition. We undertake an obligation beyond just the giving. A good rule of thumb for our role is found in:
1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV
And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.
This directs us to a broad range of needs and a clear course of action. One does not take responsibility "for" them but takes responsibility "with" them. We stay engaged and involved.
Galatians 6:2 ESV
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Monday, July 18, 2016
Friday, July 15, 2016
Psalm 16:1-2
Psalm 16:1-2 ESV
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. [2] I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you."
Boy is this one we do not pray;
Often enough
Loud enough
Humbly enough
Sincerely enough
You really can't expect verse 1 without verse 2
It's tough to hang on to the "no good" of verse 2
We really fight that
Or
Ignore that
Or
Conveniently forget it
It's not a comfortable truth
It pricks our flesh
It irritates the abiding sin in us
It pokes us in our pride
It's an "ouch"
But a failure to remember verse 2
Set us up for failure
Disappointment
Despair
Depression
Confusion
Consternation
Complications
We really don't get the power behind the word "Lord"
We forget that to call Him Lord
Is to surrender
Abdicate
Give it all up
We want to be preserved
Our way
Under our power
In ourtime
For our purposes
Admit it's true
But that gives lie to our calling Him Lord
It's tough
It's uncomfortable
It's even a little scary
But
It is imperative
Takes commitment
Focus
Faith
And remembering
Lots of remembering
Great prayer
But
It demands a lot more than we want to think about
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. [2] I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you."
Boy is this one we do not pray;
Often enough
Loud enough
Humbly enough
Sincerely enough
You really can't expect verse 1 without verse 2
It's tough to hang on to the "no good" of verse 2
We really fight that
Or
Ignore that
Or
Conveniently forget it
It's not a comfortable truth
It pricks our flesh
It irritates the abiding sin in us
It pokes us in our pride
It's an "ouch"
But a failure to remember verse 2
Set us up for failure
Disappointment
Despair
Depression
Confusion
Consternation
Complications
We really don't get the power behind the word "Lord"
We forget that to call Him Lord
Is to surrender
Abdicate
Give it all up
We want to be preserved
Our way
Under our power
In ourtime
For our purposes
Admit it's true
But that gives lie to our calling Him Lord
It's tough
It's uncomfortable
It's even a little scary
But
It is imperative
Takes commitment
Focus
Faith
And remembering
Lots of remembering
Great prayer
But
It demands a lot more than we want to think about
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Better than, "Yes."
1 John 5:14-15 ESV
And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. [15] And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.
See, that's the kicker, discerning if my request is according to His will.
A lot of things seem "good" and "fair" and "just" and they well may be but that does not mean, at least in my experience, that they are according to His will. They may be outside His will or even contrary to His will. It depends on the circumstances and, well, His will.
Ephesians 5:10 ESV
and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15, 17-18 ESV
And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. [15] See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. [17] pray without ceasing, [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
We always pray, "Your will be done." But all too often, for me at least, it's my way of confessing that I am absolutely clueless as to whether or not my request is in His will.
Then there is the kicker:
James 4:3 ESV
You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
There's the. I assume that many of my personal prayers are not answered in the way I hope because somewhere underneath all the solumn prayer words there lurks some selfish motive that thwarts, not His answer, but my asking. I ask wrongly.
That's a tough nut to crack! I can well understand why the Puritains were so determined concerning the need for self-examination. We really do have to accept that our hearts are deceitful and that we are the ones we deceive most often. We can easily fool ourselves into thinking that we are being selfless and submissive in our prayer and that they are according to His will.
Right now I have a very specific prayer request before Him. I've kept it simple, short and sweet. I don't believe is it greedy or self-serving but rather fair, good and reasonable. BUT there is a lurking doubt in the back of my mind because I will benefit from a "Yes It is a prayer about me, for me. It is a prayer and also a test. I have asked for X which is a fair request and consider a "Yes" as an answer to another request/query. In short I have figured if He grants X then Y is in His will. Make sense?
But then that old....ask wrongly and don't test God thing comes up in my mind and I doubt not His goodness but the rightness of my prayer.
So I come to:
Philippians 4:5-7 ESV
Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; [6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This does not promise a "Yes," to my prayer. What it does promise is His peace in His answer which will in turn guard my heart and my mind. And isn't that better than a "Yes"?
And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. [15] And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.
See, that's the kicker, discerning if my request is according to His will.
A lot of things seem "good" and "fair" and "just" and they well may be but that does not mean, at least in my experience, that they are according to His will. They may be outside His will or even contrary to His will. It depends on the circumstances and, well, His will.
Ephesians 5:10 ESV
and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15, 17-18 ESV
And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. [15] See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. [17] pray without ceasing, [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
We always pray, "Your will be done." But all too often, for me at least, it's my way of confessing that I am absolutely clueless as to whether or not my request is in His will.
Then there is the kicker:
James 4:3 ESV
You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
There's the. I assume that many of my personal prayers are not answered in the way I hope because somewhere underneath all the solumn prayer words there lurks some selfish motive that thwarts, not His answer, but my asking. I ask wrongly.
That's a tough nut to crack! I can well understand why the Puritains were so determined concerning the need for self-examination. We really do have to accept that our hearts are deceitful and that we are the ones we deceive most often. We can easily fool ourselves into thinking that we are being selfless and submissive in our prayer and that they are according to His will.
Right now I have a very specific prayer request before Him. I've kept it simple, short and sweet. I don't believe is it greedy or self-serving but rather fair, good and reasonable. BUT there is a lurking doubt in the back of my mind because I will benefit from a "Yes It is a prayer about me, for me. It is a prayer and also a test. I have asked for X which is a fair request and consider a "Yes" as an answer to another request/query. In short I have figured if He grants X then Y is in His will. Make sense?
But then that old....ask wrongly and don't test God thing comes up in my mind and I doubt not His goodness but the rightness of my prayer.
So I come to:
Philippians 4:5-7 ESV
Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; [6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This does not promise a "Yes," to my prayer. What it does promise is His peace in His answer which will in turn guard my heart and my mind. And isn't that better than a "Yes"?
Monday, July 4, 2016
1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
What a GREAT verse! In the Lord, our labor is not in vain. Boy, did I need to hear that or what. What a POWERFUL encouragement, especially when we feel our work is small and has little positive effect! It is great to know that "in him," our labor is never in vain.
But, there is kind of a caveat to this. We need to be steadfast, immovable and constantly abounding in His work.
Now a lot of us will balk at the, "in the work of the Lord." We will think that this verse applies only to those "professionals" who serve in some fulltime ministry. As a great friend of mine would say, "That is a lie right out of the pit of hell!" We have to get away from this incredibly narrow view of what is His work.
A Christian mother and wife is engaged in His work as she cares for her family. She does not have to ever leave the home to be in fulltime service. Everything she does is, "in the Lord," and hence, it is His work. As children obey and respect their parents they are engaged in His work. As husbands and fathers labor to provide subsistence for their families, they are engaged in His work.
Anything we do, "in the Lord," is His work and is NEVER in vain!
But we do have to be steadfast (keep on keeping on), immovable (bloom where you are planted) and abounding (what your hand finds to do, do)!
We also need to examine ourselves and our labor to be confident that we are doing it. "In Him." Sure, you'll find a lot of messy mixed motives as you examine this but you look for the light not the shadows. Whatever you find in the mix, if love for Christ is there, you are good to go. You're gonna find a lot of your own stuff mixed in there. Do not let it stop you or hinder you in any way. He is in the business of refining us and all we do do. Don't sweat it, do it and do it for Him.
Now, notice I don't say do it perfectly. You're not gonna. Not gonna happen. You're gonna move forward in fits and starts, ups and downs, homeruns and foul balls. But you gotta be doing it for Him to be refining it. Sure, perfection is a great and worthy goal. We aim at it, constantly secure in the knowledge that wherever we fall short, He covers the shortfall.
A great lesson concerning our labor is found here;
1 Corinthians 3:6-7, 9 ESV
I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. [7] So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. [9] For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's field, God's building.
Oh, dear ones, if we would only carve that on our consciences! We always tend to take on that which is not ours to fulfill! None of our labors in Him can ever be in vain when the conclusion of the effort is in His hands!
WE ARE ALL God's fellow workers, right where He has us doing what He has given us to do. Whatever a believer does should be considered fulltime service. That includes both our labor and our leisure. We are His fulltime, therefore what we do should be His fulltime!
Dear ones, stay steadfast. Be immovable. Abound in what He has given you to do. AND relax and rejoice in the fact that He is the period on all the senteces our lives write. NOTHING you do in Him is EVER in vain!
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Set mind & heart . . . .
Colossians 3:1-2 ESV
If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. [2] Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
Melancholy, especially chronic melancholy is a strange affliction. One mo,emt things are relatively fine and the next momemt the melancholy raises its ugly head and smacks you into the dirt. It is a most unpleasant occurrence. One never knows when it will strike and determining why can be difficult.
If we accept that there is a neurochemical component to the affliction then the sudden attack can be due to some shift in the chemical balance. But we do not want to lay all of the blame on some mysterious chemical Russian roulette. We, our minds and hearts, play a powerful role in this affliction as well.
One of the more simple causes of these sudden drops has much to do with what we have set our minds and hears on. We have all heard the phrase, "I really had my heart set on ......." When we set out hearts and or minds on something we have to accept that we may have set ourselves up for a drop, for a deep bout of melancholy. Therefore, it is important that we guard our minds and hearts from being set on anything that can disappoint.
This does not mean we don't desire things - ever. But it does mean that we have to moderate the strength of our desires for anything in or of the world. This means we have to take responsibility and do the hard work of examining exactly what we have set our minds and/or hearts on and to what degree. When we fail to do this we can expect a drop.
I have been looking for a new job. We need more income and frankly working nights is getting tougher. I had submitted two applications for two jobs for, which I believe my skills and experience make me a viable candidate. One job looks very positive the other is still up in the air. I received a call from the very positive job today for a second interview and found myself dropping into, that dark place. Wondering why I! examined my heart and mind and realized I had set my mind and heart on the other job to a greater degree than I had thought even though they have only read my resume and have not offered an interview. Oh sure, it's a better job and a greater challenge but the mere fact that a call from positive job cast me down made me very suspicious of the set of my mind and heart.
We are admonished to set our mind and heart on things above, and not things below, for a very good reason. Things above are promised and guaranteed. They are bought and paid for. Things below, not so much. One reason that we should not set our hearts on things in and of this world is because they are entagled in that great web of fallenness that so corrupts the whole world. We are no match for the world, the flesh and the devil, at least not on our own. We are not capaple of navigating the maze of deceit that works in this world. And besides, this is all passing away.
We have a great promise concerning ourmhearts and minds;
Philippians 4:6-7 ESV
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
When we earnestly and consistantly pray concernining our needs, desires and concerns (what we set our minds and hearts on) we have the promise of the peace of God. And this is not mellow sence of well being type of peace. It is an active and dynamic peace. It guards our hearts and minds. It works in us to keep us safe and away from setting our minds and hearts awry. This is a promise we need to grab hold of and hold so tightly is squeals! Let God know about everything that concerns your mind and heart and He will guard it!
Melancholy is a mean and nasty affliction. It seems to abate only to blindside us. But where we have set our minds and hearts has a lot to do, with its power in our lives. Our prayer thoughts and life can have a powerful effect upon hooften and how hard it hits us. Where we have set our minds and nearts plays a powerful role in how and where it hits us. A key to avoiding these blindside injuries is to work diligently to keep, our minds and hearts set on things above and to set our concerns and desires above as well.
If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. [2] Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
Melancholy, especially chronic melancholy is a strange affliction. One mo,emt things are relatively fine and the next momemt the melancholy raises its ugly head and smacks you into the dirt. It is a most unpleasant occurrence. One never knows when it will strike and determining why can be difficult.
If we accept that there is a neurochemical component to the affliction then the sudden attack can be due to some shift in the chemical balance. But we do not want to lay all of the blame on some mysterious chemical Russian roulette. We, our minds and hearts, play a powerful role in this affliction as well.
One of the more simple causes of these sudden drops has much to do with what we have set our minds and hears on. We have all heard the phrase, "I really had my heart set on ......." When we set out hearts and or minds on something we have to accept that we may have set ourselves up for a drop, for a deep bout of melancholy. Therefore, it is important that we guard our minds and hearts from being set on anything that can disappoint.
This does not mean we don't desire things - ever. But it does mean that we have to moderate the strength of our desires for anything in or of the world. This means we have to take responsibility and do the hard work of examining exactly what we have set our minds and/or hearts on and to what degree. When we fail to do this we can expect a drop.
I have been looking for a new job. We need more income and frankly working nights is getting tougher. I had submitted two applications for two jobs for, which I believe my skills and experience make me a viable candidate. One job looks very positive the other is still up in the air. I received a call from the very positive job today for a second interview and found myself dropping into, that dark place. Wondering why I! examined my heart and mind and realized I had set my mind and heart on the other job to a greater degree than I had thought even though they have only read my resume and have not offered an interview. Oh sure, it's a better job and a greater challenge but the mere fact that a call from positive job cast me down made me very suspicious of the set of my mind and heart.
We are admonished to set our mind and heart on things above, and not things below, for a very good reason. Things above are promised and guaranteed. They are bought and paid for. Things below, not so much. One reason that we should not set our hearts on things in and of this world is because they are entagled in that great web of fallenness that so corrupts the whole world. We are no match for the world, the flesh and the devil, at least not on our own. We are not capaple of navigating the maze of deceit that works in this world. And besides, this is all passing away.
We have a great promise concerning ourmhearts and minds;
Philippians 4:6-7 ESV
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
When we earnestly and consistantly pray concernining our needs, desires and concerns (what we set our minds and hearts on) we have the promise of the peace of God. And this is not mellow sence of well being type of peace. It is an active and dynamic peace. It guards our hearts and minds. It works in us to keep us safe and away from setting our minds and hearts awry. This is a promise we need to grab hold of and hold so tightly is squeals! Let God know about everything that concerns your mind and heart and He will guard it!
Melancholy is a mean and nasty affliction. It seems to abate only to blindside us. But where we have set our minds and hearts has a lot to do, with its power in our lives. Our prayer thoughts and life can have a powerful effect upon hooften and how hard it hits us. Where we have set our minds and nearts plays a powerful role in how and where it hits us. A key to avoiding these blindside injuries is to work diligently to keep, our minds and hearts set on things above and to set our concerns and desires above as well.
Too much "in me," in me.
Philippians 4:12-13 ESV
I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. [13] I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
I know how to be brought low....
Well, I know what it's like and it is no fun whatsoever. But I have to reflect on why He sees fit to keep bringing me low. I'm afraid it may well have to do with pride and cockiness and until I learn the lesson in the lowness I keep repeating it.
I know how, to abound....
I don't. I don't do abounding very well, it tends to mess with my head. Hence the lessons in lowness.
I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need....
Don't do any of that very well. Get stupid in one and whiny in the other. Hence, the lowness lessons.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me....
That's the "secret." It's the "all things through him" all the time in all situations. It's never "in me", it's just not going to happen.
"In me," is all the world of abiding sin; all the old man, all the body of death. "In me," is not good. "In him," is the only way to learn the lesson and have it stick. But there is too much "in me," in me.
I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. [13] I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
I know how to be brought low....
Well, I know what it's like and it is no fun whatsoever. But I have to reflect on why He sees fit to keep bringing me low. I'm afraid it may well have to do with pride and cockiness and until I learn the lesson in the lowness I keep repeating it.
I know how, to abound....
I don't. I don't do abounding very well, it tends to mess with my head. Hence the lessons in lowness.
I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need....
Don't do any of that very well. Get stupid in one and whiny in the other. Hence, the lowness lessons.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me....
That's the "secret." It's the "all things through him" all the time in all situations. It's never "in me", it's just not going to happen.
"In me," is all the world of abiding sin; all the old man, all the body of death. "In me," is not good. "In him," is the only way to learn the lesson and have it stick. But there is too much "in me," in me.
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Sharing our troubles
Philippians 4:14 ESV
Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.
How great a blessing it is to have brothers and sisters who are willing to allow one to share one's burdens. Certainly we all have our own burdens to bear but to take on those of another is truly a good work.
Alone is possibly one of the most tragic feelings a believer can have. To feel that one cannot share one's burdens is a very sad feeling. Alone is a tough thing to feel, yet it is all too common among believers.
Yes, we know that He is always with us, but it was not His plan that He be the only one who is there for us.
Galatians 6:2 ESV
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
We are admonished to bear one another's burdens. This is not optional. This is an imperative. But sadly, it is one that is more often avoided than embraced.
We, Patti and I, are wonderfully blessed by folks who are willing to shoulder our burdens both in prayer and engagement. They may tire under the load but they never put it down. Even when their own loads are heavy and pressing they open their hearts and arms to ours. It is a great gift and a great part of God's plan for His people.
God does not tell us to "fix" the burdens of others, although if we can we should, but rather to "bear" them. The primary way we do this is by being willing to be informed of those burdens. Unfortunately there is little place or time in the life of the Church for such things to happen. Also, I think that we are afraid to know the burdens of others because they may impose some strong response on our part, some sacrificial response.
Knowing the burdens of another does carry it's own responsibility. If nothing else, it carries the obligation to really pray for them and WITH them. It is not the bullet prayer that is needed but the deep, knowledgeable, sincere and focused prayer. It means entering their battleground with petitions and supplications on their behalf. It also requires that we stay informed of their needs by staying engaged. It is a sad propensity for us to hear of a burden and then avoid it for fear we will be called to actually do something regarding it.
We can testify to the wonderfulness of having brothers and sisters who engage, stay engaged and do what they can to help bear the burden. Just the knowledge that we are remembered, especially remembered in prayer, is a comfort beyond price. That someone is carrying us to the throne of grace is indeed a great comfort, blessing and encouragement.
Philemon 1:7 ESV
For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.
Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.
How great a blessing it is to have brothers and sisters who are willing to allow one to share one's burdens. Certainly we all have our own burdens to bear but to take on those of another is truly a good work.
Alone is possibly one of the most tragic feelings a believer can have. To feel that one cannot share one's burdens is a very sad feeling. Alone is a tough thing to feel, yet it is all too common among believers.
Yes, we know that He is always with us, but it was not His plan that He be the only one who is there for us.
Galatians 6:2 ESV
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
We are admonished to bear one another's burdens. This is not optional. This is an imperative. But sadly, it is one that is more often avoided than embraced.
We, Patti and I, are wonderfully blessed by folks who are willing to shoulder our burdens both in prayer and engagement. They may tire under the load but they never put it down. Even when their own loads are heavy and pressing they open their hearts and arms to ours. It is a great gift and a great part of God's plan for His people.
God does not tell us to "fix" the burdens of others, although if we can we should, but rather to "bear" them. The primary way we do this is by being willing to be informed of those burdens. Unfortunately there is little place or time in the life of the Church for such things to happen. Also, I think that we are afraid to know the burdens of others because they may impose some strong response on our part, some sacrificial response.
Knowing the burdens of another does carry it's own responsibility. If nothing else, it carries the obligation to really pray for them and WITH them. It is not the bullet prayer that is needed but the deep, knowledgeable, sincere and focused prayer. It means entering their battleground with petitions and supplications on their behalf. It also requires that we stay informed of their needs by staying engaged. It is a sad propensity for us to hear of a burden and then avoid it for fear we will be called to actually do something regarding it.
We can testify to the wonderfulness of having brothers and sisters who engage, stay engaged and do what they can to help bear the burden. Just the knowledge that we are remembered, especially remembered in prayer, is a comfort beyond price. That someone is carrying us to the throne of grace is indeed a great comfort, blessing and encouragement.
Philemon 1:7 ESV
For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.
Friday, June 17, 2016
2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 ESV
To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, [12] so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
What a great and wonderful thing to pray for! What a blessing to those for whom we pray! Oh that we all might so lovingly consider our brothers and sisters in Christ!
We all resolve to do good and to do good works for the glory of our heavenly Father so them it is imperative that we pray concerning this for one another? How much more encouraging can we get than to make the good desires of our family's heart a matter for diligent prayer. Oh how we would be co-laborers in the best sense if we all undertook to do such praying but we need to know those things which our brothers and sisters have resolved to be and to do.
Here again, I have to express my concern that in the conservative anti-cultural swing of the pendulum, the church has disallowed any forum for us to be informed by and concerning our brothers and sisters'resolutions. That intimate connection, for ministry is left to chance. In our desire to get the world out of the church, we have severed many opportunities for true and glorious fellowship.
The Puritans held what they called "conferences", which we would call small groups. These conferences were disciplined serious. meetings where the truth was discussed and lives were shared. At these conferences, not only did they discuss theology and doctrine but the shared what I call "Kindom hopes." By that I mean the dearly held intimate and individual asperations of those attending. These were not self-help or therapeutic groups (although they were helpful and therapeutic) but were the venue where true and orderly fellowship took place.
By fellowship, I refer to the strictest definition of the biblical term. This is not socializing but rather the holding and sharing of our common faith as it relates to our individual lives. These gatherings are not rodeos where folks would spill their guts, but rather serious interactions concerning the individual needs, asperations and resolutions of the believers.
How else, where else are we to come into contact with the hearts of our brothers and sisters? Certainly not in the choreographed order of worship. That would not be appropriate or fitting. Worship is a part of everthing we do in His name but that special time on the Lord's day is about Him not us. But we desperately need a venue where we can and may share with one another the glories and struggles of following Him - especially how we can pray for one another as we seek to be about serving Him.
I, and I am sure many of you, desire to pray for our brothers and sisters in an intelligent and informed manner. I find vague and generic prayers very frustrating. I desire to pray for my hopes and dreams in the Lord as well as yours. I know mine, it is yours I long to know. Otherwise my prayers for you seem crippled by ingnorance and hollow in their vagueness. We want our prayers to be intimate and to the point, not general and hollow. No, there is nothing "WRONG" with generalized and vague prayers but I think we miss the best of prayer when we are so limited.
+
Do you suffer the same frustrations as I concerning this matter? If so, begin now to be more intentional in asking for and receiving requests for prayer. If someone desires "growth in Christ," ask them in what specific areas. Ask them what their Kingdom hopes and dreams are. Ask....ask....ask and then ask.
As far as fellowship for the purpose of informing our prayers for one another, start with one other person. Pray that the Lord will help you find a kindred spirit in this matter and you two begin to "conference." If it pleases God to do so, your little one on one can grow into a powerful, deep and meaningful (not mention Christ honoring) opportunity.
But I would warn you. Though such fellowship can certainly be therapeutic this is not to be a Christian group therapy sesson. We gather in
conference to do serious work, to gain the information we need to pray wisely and well. Nor is it a social gathering. It has a specific end in sight and will take resolve to keep it from degenerating into a social gathering.
To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, [12] so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
What a great and wonderful thing to pray for! What a blessing to those for whom we pray! Oh that we all might so lovingly consider our brothers and sisters in Christ!
We all resolve to do good and to do good works for the glory of our heavenly Father so them it is imperative that we pray concerning this for one another? How much more encouraging can we get than to make the good desires of our family's heart a matter for diligent prayer. Oh how we would be co-laborers in the best sense if we all undertook to do such praying but we need to know those things which our brothers and sisters have resolved to be and to do.
Here again, I have to express my concern that in the conservative anti-cultural swing of the pendulum, the church has disallowed any forum for us to be informed by and concerning our brothers and sisters'resolutions. That intimate connection, for ministry is left to chance. In our desire to get the world out of the church, we have severed many opportunities for true and glorious fellowship.
The Puritans held what they called "conferences", which we would call small groups. These conferences were disciplined serious. meetings where the truth was discussed and lives were shared. At these conferences, not only did they discuss theology and doctrine but the shared what I call "Kindom hopes." By that I mean the dearly held intimate and individual asperations of those attending. These were not self-help or therapeutic groups (although they were helpful and therapeutic) but were the venue where true and orderly fellowship took place.
By fellowship, I refer to the strictest definition of the biblical term. This is not socializing but rather the holding and sharing of our common faith as it relates to our individual lives. These gatherings are not rodeos where folks would spill their guts, but rather serious interactions concerning the individual needs, asperations and resolutions of the believers.
How else, where else are we to come into contact with the hearts of our brothers and sisters? Certainly not in the choreographed order of worship. That would not be appropriate or fitting. Worship is a part of everthing we do in His name but that special time on the Lord's day is about Him not us. But we desperately need a venue where we can and may share with one another the glories and struggles of following Him - especially how we can pray for one another as we seek to be about serving Him.
I, and I am sure many of you, desire to pray for our brothers and sisters in an intelligent and informed manner. I find vague and generic prayers very frustrating. I desire to pray for my hopes and dreams in the Lord as well as yours. I know mine, it is yours I long to know. Otherwise my prayers for you seem crippled by ingnorance and hollow in their vagueness. We want our prayers to be intimate and to the point, not general and hollow. No, there is nothing "WRONG" with generalized and vague prayers but I think we miss the best of prayer when we are so limited.
+
Do you suffer the same frustrations as I concerning this matter? If so, begin now to be more intentional in asking for and receiving requests for prayer. If someone desires "growth in Christ," ask them in what specific areas. Ask them what their Kingdom hopes and dreams are. Ask....ask....ask and then ask.
As far as fellowship for the purpose of informing our prayers for one another, start with one other person. Pray that the Lord will help you find a kindred spirit in this matter and you two begin to "conference." If it pleases God to do so, your little one on one can grow into a powerful, deep and meaningful (not mention Christ honoring) opportunity.
But I would warn you. Though such fellowship can certainly be therapeutic this is not to be a Christian group therapy sesson. We gather in
conference to do serious work, to gain the information we need to pray wisely and well. Nor is it a social gathering. It has a specific end in sight and will take resolve to keep it from degenerating into a social gathering.
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Even more....2 Corinthians 1:3-5
Even more.......
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 ESV
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. [5] For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.
There is a "Why" to the comfort we receive from God and if there is a "Why" for that comfort there is a "Why" for the affliction as well. First, we have to understand and accept that as Jesus said, we will have tribulation in this world. It is a fallen, broken world, a far cry from what God intended. It is a sin ravaged world, warped and twisted, full of sorrow and woe. Until He returns ( Please God let it be soon!). We will suffer travesty and affliction. But affliction is not without purpose.
First, affliction proclaims the creation's brokenness, man's fallenness and the desperate need for a redeemer. It isn't how it should be! It must be righted but only God in Christ can right it. Second, afflictions are intended to demonstrate man's individual and collective need to be dependent upon God. Third, afflictions demonstrate God's mercy as He brings comfort in or resolution to our afflictions. Fourth, afflictions are intended to draw us to the only source of purpose and comfort.
Like afflictions, comfort has a purpose that is beyond simply easing our discomfort. The comfort we receive from God is intended to be passed to others in need, others suffering from affliction. It is a mercy that is to be extended beyond the recipient to the next person. It is to be shared abroad to His glory and honor.
Now for an aside. For over 20 years I have had the privilege of serving, "the least of these." From the homeless to the addicted to the mentally ill, God has allowed me to serve these oh so special men and women. Why? Simply put, because there is typically no ministry to them within the local church. Right doctrine and a correct worship style are important and good but if there is no ministry to the broken and hurting then the church is failing to fulfill her whole warrant. There is little, if any true pastoral ministry in most churches today. By "pastoral" in this context I mean Christ centered, Bible based, "out of the pulpit and on the front lines," ministry. I refer to the warrant to the church:
1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV
And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.
That is not pulpit work, that is people work. That is the work of passing on that comfort with which God comforts us.
Enough of that "bunny trail."
You should understand that in this verse it does not refer to how God "got us through" the affliction but rather how God is comforting us "IN" our dynamic, on going, current affliction. We are comforted in the affliction we suffer NOW so we may comfort others in the affliction they suffer NOW! In this verse it is not about the affliction God resolved but it is about the affliction in my life that is unresolved in which God is comforting me. It is not, "I once went through that and God ......." but rather, "I am suffering X and God is comforting my by Y."
Certainly we can offer the comfort we received during an affliction that God has since resolved, but we are to be offering comfort even while we undergo an unresolved affliction. This is a dynamic, in the midst of the affliction offer of the comfort we are receiving!
It is getting out there in the midst of the pain and connecting with a brother or sister in Christ who is dealing with some affliction and connecting with them to share the comfort we are experiencing. It is not giving some testimony of a deliverance, but a testimony to active comfort in an active affliction.
But alas, we are taught in most local churches to not do this, to keep our afflictions (and comfort) to ourselves. We are not to disturb the nice neat order with our messy afflictions. Instead, we are typically sent out into the wilderness to find our own comfort, admonishment, encouragement, and help.
Pray brothers and sisters and pray hard that God will correct this short-fall in His churches. Are you in some affliction and are you receiving comfort from our loving God? Then pray that He will connect you with someone who needs you to share that comfort. Are you suffering some affliction? Then pray God will send someone in affliction who has God's comfort to share.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 ESV
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. [5] For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.
There is a "Why" to the comfort we receive from God and if there is a "Why" for that comfort there is a "Why" for the affliction as well. First, we have to understand and accept that as Jesus said, we will have tribulation in this world. It is a fallen, broken world, a far cry from what God intended. It is a sin ravaged world, warped and twisted, full of sorrow and woe. Until He returns ( Please God let it be soon!). We will suffer travesty and affliction. But affliction is not without purpose.
First, affliction proclaims the creation's brokenness, man's fallenness and the desperate need for a redeemer. It isn't how it should be! It must be righted but only God in Christ can right it. Second, afflictions are intended to demonstrate man's individual and collective need to be dependent upon God. Third, afflictions demonstrate God's mercy as He brings comfort in or resolution to our afflictions. Fourth, afflictions are intended to draw us to the only source of purpose and comfort.
Like afflictions, comfort has a purpose that is beyond simply easing our discomfort. The comfort we receive from God is intended to be passed to others in need, others suffering from affliction. It is a mercy that is to be extended beyond the recipient to the next person. It is to be shared abroad to His glory and honor.
Now for an aside. For over 20 years I have had the privilege of serving, "the least of these." From the homeless to the addicted to the mentally ill, God has allowed me to serve these oh so special men and women. Why? Simply put, because there is typically no ministry to them within the local church. Right doctrine and a correct worship style are important and good but if there is no ministry to the broken and hurting then the church is failing to fulfill her whole warrant. There is little, if any true pastoral ministry in most churches today. By "pastoral" in this context I mean Christ centered, Bible based, "out of the pulpit and on the front lines," ministry. I refer to the warrant to the church:
1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV
And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.
That is not pulpit work, that is people work. That is the work of passing on that comfort with which God comforts us.
Enough of that "bunny trail."
You should understand that in this verse it does not refer to how God "got us through" the affliction but rather how God is comforting us "IN" our dynamic, on going, current affliction. We are comforted in the affliction we suffer NOW so we may comfort others in the affliction they suffer NOW! In this verse it is not about the affliction God resolved but it is about the affliction in my life that is unresolved in which God is comforting me. It is not, "I once went through that and God ......." but rather, "I am suffering X and God is comforting my by Y."
Certainly we can offer the comfort we received during an affliction that God has since resolved, but we are to be offering comfort even while we undergo an unresolved affliction. This is a dynamic, in the midst of the affliction offer of the comfort we are receiving!
It is getting out there in the midst of the pain and connecting with a brother or sister in Christ who is dealing with some affliction and connecting with them to share the comfort we are experiencing. It is not giving some testimony of a deliverance, but a testimony to active comfort in an active affliction.
But alas, we are taught in most local churches to not do this, to keep our afflictions (and comfort) to ourselves. We are not to disturb the nice neat order with our messy afflictions. Instead, we are typically sent out into the wilderness to find our own comfort, admonishment, encouragement, and help.
Pray brothers and sisters and pray hard that God will correct this short-fall in His churches. Are you in some affliction and are you receiving comfort from our loving God? Then pray that He will connect you with someone who needs you to share that comfort. Are you suffering some affliction? Then pray God will send someone in affliction who has God's comfort to share.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
More 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
MORE....
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 ESV
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. [5] For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.
Comfort. A curious thing. What we are comforted by in affliction can be as varied as the afflictions themselves. Though the comforts God provides are "common" like the trials we face, they like our afflictions, are quite intimate and individual. Certainly, we may all be comforted by all the promises in the Gospel we are also comforted by unique and very personal mercies.
In affliction we need to examine not only the affliction but we need to examine or look for that which brings us comfort. The danger we face is in comforting the flesh instead of the spirit. We talk of "comfort" food which my make us feel better but usually does little for our health and certainly does nothing for our spirit. We need to be very careful to examine what comforts us and we need to begin by asking if indeed it is a comfort from God.
The world, the flesh and the devil will always seek to take advantage of us when we are under affliction. When we are weak and most prone to lean on our own strength and wisdom that unholy three will do everything they can to lead us into comforts that are really no comfort at all. They seek to trap us into accepting counterfeit comforts which only serve to make our affliction worse and lead us to feel even further away from the Lord.
God's comforts are not primarily about making us "feel" better but rather they are intended to strengthen our faith and bring peace to our hearts. God wants us to lean upon Him all the time and especially in times of affliction. Indeed, the very purpose of many afflictions is to bring us back under His care, leaning on His provision. His comforts are intended for our growth, our perseverance and not necessarily for us to feel better. If they are to make us "feel" anything, it is confidence, strength, hope, love, etc.
God's comforts are, well, godly. They are part and parcel of His holiness and our sanctificaton.
Jesus asks:
Matthew 7:9-11 ESV
Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? [10] Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? [11] If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!
This is as applicable to comforts as it is to any other prayer request we may make. Of course I would ask, which one of you, if his son asks for a serpent will give him one? In other words, there are times, and I suspect many times, when what we are praying for what we think is a "fish" is in truth a serpent.
James writes:
James 4:3, 7 ESV
You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
Comfort is not always about feeling better. That is a tough truth but a safe one. We have to pray hard that our hearts and minds will be open and receptive to the comfort that God would send and not demand what we believe will comfort us. We need, as I have said, to examine what we believe will comfort us to see if it is godly and according to His will.
Will it draw me closer to Him. Will it bring honor to His name? Will it contribute to my growing more like Christ. Is this a godly comfort,
In all affliction James' admonition is paramount:
James 4:7 ESV
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
In affliction our only and best hope is to submit ourselves to God, accepting the affliction as from Him and seeking how we may glorify Him in it. This will go a long way to enable us to seek, receive and ackowledge the comfort He provides and not seek those comforts which are counterfeits, traps.
What comforts you? What do you seek in affliction? Do you cry out to God for the comfort He wants you to have, do you submit yourself to His will? What comforts you?
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 ESV
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. [5] For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.
Comfort. A curious thing. What we are comforted by in affliction can be as varied as the afflictions themselves. Though the comforts God provides are "common" like the trials we face, they like our afflictions, are quite intimate and individual. Certainly, we may all be comforted by all the promises in the Gospel we are also comforted by unique and very personal mercies.
In affliction we need to examine not only the affliction but we need to examine or look for that which brings us comfort. The danger we face is in comforting the flesh instead of the spirit. We talk of "comfort" food which my make us feel better but usually does little for our health and certainly does nothing for our spirit. We need to be very careful to examine what comforts us and we need to begin by asking if indeed it is a comfort from God.
The world, the flesh and the devil will always seek to take advantage of us when we are under affliction. When we are weak and most prone to lean on our own strength and wisdom that unholy three will do everything they can to lead us into comforts that are really no comfort at all. They seek to trap us into accepting counterfeit comforts which only serve to make our affliction worse and lead us to feel even further away from the Lord.
God's comforts are not primarily about making us "feel" better but rather they are intended to strengthen our faith and bring peace to our hearts. God wants us to lean upon Him all the time and especially in times of affliction. Indeed, the very purpose of many afflictions is to bring us back under His care, leaning on His provision. His comforts are intended for our growth, our perseverance and not necessarily for us to feel better. If they are to make us "feel" anything, it is confidence, strength, hope, love, etc.
God's comforts are, well, godly. They are part and parcel of His holiness and our sanctificaton.
Jesus asks:
Matthew 7:9-11 ESV
Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? [10] Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? [11] If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!
This is as applicable to comforts as it is to any other prayer request we may make. Of course I would ask, which one of you, if his son asks for a serpent will give him one? In other words, there are times, and I suspect many times, when what we are praying for what we think is a "fish" is in truth a serpent.
James writes:
James 4:3, 7 ESV
You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
Comfort is not always about feeling better. That is a tough truth but a safe one. We have to pray hard that our hearts and minds will be open and receptive to the comfort that God would send and not demand what we believe will comfort us. We need, as I have said, to examine what we believe will comfort us to see if it is godly and according to His will.
Will it draw me closer to Him. Will it bring honor to His name? Will it contribute to my growing more like Christ. Is this a godly comfort,
In all affliction James' admonition is paramount:
James 4:7 ESV
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
In affliction our only and best hope is to submit ourselves to God, accepting the affliction as from Him and seeking how we may glorify Him in it. This will go a long way to enable us to seek, receive and ackowledge the comfort He provides and not seek those comforts which are counterfeits, traps.
What comforts you? What do you seek in affliction? Do you cry out to God for the comfort He wants you to have, do you submit yourself to His will? What comforts you?
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
I have always loved this verse. It has never ceased to be a source of encouragement and blessing to me as I deal with the day to day issues that surround the melancholy from which I suffer. But ya know, though it is a great passage it has to be understood within the individual context of our circumstances for its value to be truly appreciated.
The first thing we need to reflect upon is exactly how God is merciful to us in our affliction. Of course, the big thing is that it could always be worse than it is or it could be a different and more crippling affliction. We never understand this until we actually consider the possibility of a greater and more difficult affliction. I really believe that each persons afflicton is tailor made for their maturity, ability and need. There are no purposeless afflictions. Nor are they arbitrary or random. They are individual and specific to each of us.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Though our " temptation" or more accurately "trial" can be listed in a plethora of trials available, OUR trial is specific to US. As there are no cooky - cutter blessing and no recipes for endurance, there are no cooky - cutter afflictions. Each and every affliction is specific to the individual facing it. Each affliction is "special."
Trials are common to all men but our trial is our trial. It is packed in with all our "baggage" which gives it that unique flavor. Because of this a lot of the "encouragement" we're offered sounds terribly hollow. People lovingly seek to encourage us and it is a kindness but we always have the , "Yes, BUT....." in the back of our minds. It is, I believe, true that, " Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, nobody knows but Jesus." They may have had a similar experience but MY trouble is MY trouble. Yes?????
We need to own our trials and know them as well as possible. They need to be prayerfully examined and not just accepted on face value. As we examine them we will see the dynamic of the trial...the components and secondary causes and we can then pray with greater wisdom and insight concerning them. Trust me, ignorant prayers, though acceptable, are not nearly as useful as prayer born out of deep and meaningful reflection. Especially concerning the trials and afflictions we face.
We do so need wisdom in affliction and we are promised that His wisdom is available for the asking. BUT when we ask we need to purpose to use it! It does us no good to ask and receive if we do not plan to do the wisdom work. That means we have to sit down, perhaps with pen and paper, and really consider our affliction within the context of our redemption and our abiding sin. I fear that this is the only way we can gain a solid and meaningful understanding and appreciation of the circumstances we find ourselves in. It ain't magical folks, it all takes our cooperator with the work of the Holy Spirit. This isn't about "works" but it is about "work."
I'm not done with this passage but will end this at this point to allow you time to prayerfully consider what has been offered here. I pray that you will grow in knowledge, understanding and appreciation of all God has done, is doing and will do in your life that it will glorify His name and bring peace to your soul.
Michael
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
I have always loved this verse. It has never ceased to be a source of encouragement and blessing to me as I deal with the day to day issues that surround the melancholy from which I suffer. But ya know, though it is a great passage it has to be understood within the individual context of our circumstances for its value to be truly appreciated.
The first thing we need to reflect upon is exactly how God is merciful to us in our affliction. Of course, the big thing is that it could always be worse than it is or it could be a different and more crippling affliction. We never understand this until we actually consider the possibility of a greater and more difficult affliction. I really believe that each persons afflicton is tailor made for their maturity, ability and need. There are no purposeless afflictions. Nor are they arbitrary or random. They are individual and specific to each of us.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Though our " temptation" or more accurately "trial" can be listed in a plethora of trials available, OUR trial is specific to US. As there are no cooky - cutter blessing and no recipes for endurance, there are no cooky - cutter afflictions. Each and every affliction is specific to the individual facing it. Each affliction is "special."
Trials are common to all men but our trial is our trial. It is packed in with all our "baggage" which gives it that unique flavor. Because of this a lot of the "encouragement" we're offered sounds terribly hollow. People lovingly seek to encourage us and it is a kindness but we always have the , "Yes, BUT....." in the back of our minds. It is, I believe, true that, " Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, nobody knows but Jesus." They may have had a similar experience but MY trouble is MY trouble. Yes?????
We need to own our trials and know them as well as possible. They need to be prayerfully examined and not just accepted on face value. As we examine them we will see the dynamic of the trial...the components and secondary causes and we can then pray with greater wisdom and insight concerning them. Trust me, ignorant prayers, though acceptable, are not nearly as useful as prayer born out of deep and meaningful reflection. Especially concerning the trials and afflictions we face.
We do so need wisdom in affliction and we are promised that His wisdom is available for the asking. BUT when we ask we need to purpose to use it! It does us no good to ask and receive if we do not plan to do the wisdom work. That means we have to sit down, perhaps with pen and paper, and really consider our affliction within the context of our redemption and our abiding sin. I fear that this is the only way we can gain a solid and meaningful understanding and appreciation of the circumstances we find ourselves in. It ain't magical folks, it all takes our cooperator with the work of the Holy Spirit. This isn't about "works" but it is about "work."
I'm not done with this passage but will end this at this point to allow you time to prayerfully consider what has been offered here. I pray that you will grow in knowledge, understanding and appreciation of all God has done, is doing and will do in your life that it will glorify His name and bring peace to your soul.
Michael
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
A Tough Prayer to Pray
A Tough Prayer to Pray
Psa 26:2 Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and my mind.
Asking God to "prove" and "test" you is a dangerous thing to do. Not dangerous is the sense of something bad but rather dangerous in the sense that 1) He loves to do it and 2) you may not like what you learn.
The word translated "prove" comes from the Hebrew "to investigate" or "to test" as in testing precious metals. The word translates "test" carries the idea of a test or a trial. Both words are used for the same purpose, to strip away any pretense on our part and to show us who and how we really are. Kind of a dangerous thing to ask for.
But though the passage through the proving and the test may be arduous it will yield a rich treasureof knowledge and understanding. It will remind you in the most powerful way of our need for God's redemptive love and our need for the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. This passage is asking God to test/try the very core of who and what we are - our hearts and our minds. It is asking Him to show us where sin still abides, to show us where we harbour covetousness and self-serving. We are asking Him to strip us bare of all the faces we wear and all the roles and posing in our lives and to demonstrate to us where we are indeed false and in deep need.
It is indeed a dangerous thing to do. One of those requests you want to pray deeply about before you make it. It is not for the weak of heart or commitment.
BUT - this is how we stay very aware of our need for redemption and the wonder gift that it is. Unless we are willing to have God expose our need we are in great danger of growing apathetic and ungrateful.
It is also God's means of showing us where and how we need to grow in the Lord. Maturity in Christ is not an option - it is one of the main points of our redemption - certainly the whole point of our sanctification! Asking God to prove and test us, to expose our dire need is so much better than His having to do it without our willing cooperation. He will prove and test us whether we ask for it or not. It is far better to seek it than to have it happen upon us unprepared.
Let us boldly go before the throne of grace with this prayer on our lips. Seeking His loving exposureof our need so we might more readily see His grace and merciful providence at work in our lives.
Thursday, April 21, 2016
The weapons of our warfare.
2Co 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.
When did we forget that we are engaged in a battle that rages every minute of every day? It is a battle for the glory of God and the health and growth of the Body of Christ. It is a battle in which our enemies rarely give any quarter and certainly never offer a cease fire. Why do we only remember this when it is glaringly obvious?
Our enemy never sleeps. Somewhere on the field the battle is always raging!
And, why do we fail to use each and every weapon at our disposal? Why do we think that we are not allowed to fight using the weapons that God has provided? Though it is the best weapon, why do we think that prayer is our only weapon? Or more commonly, why do we tend to bring a knife to a gun fight?
Paul tells us that our weapons are not, "of the flesh." This speaks to the power and motives behind the choice and use of weapons more than it speaks to the weapons themselves. Our weapons are not of our own sinful motivations and power but rather they are divinely empowered. That means, I believe, that I am allowed to use "material" weapons in the battle but that I am not allowed to use them under my own steam. The "power" with and under which my weapons are to be used is His power, the power of the Spirit.
The strategies, tactics and weapons I choose certainly must be chosen must be chosen prayerfully but they are very real, very material and very "earthly" strategies, tactics and weapons. We are, I believe, allowed to use whatever strategies, tactics and weapons that are appropriate to the battle but they are to be developed and chosen through prayerful consideration and even consultation with other believers.
I write not concerning issues among believers but rather our battle with the Prince of the power of the air and his forces. I write concerning our battle with sin - with evil. This battle must be engaged, it can not be ignored.
This battle gives no quarter and allows for no cease fire. It must be fought and fought well. It must be fought by the will of, under the power of and for the glory of God. And God has provided a whole arsenal of weapons for use to use in that battle. The weapon may be a lawyer, it may be a negotiation, it may be legislation. The weapon may even be a knife of a gun (God forbid) but these are legitimate weapons in the arsenal we have at hand and may be used if used depending upon His power and His wisdon to make them effective.
I am watching right now a work the Lord has blessed and used in the lives of believers as it is assaulted by evil men who wish to steal it away from God and rob God of the glory and praise it brings Him. Certainly I am praying for this ministry but I am also encouraging them to use every legitimate weapon they have at their disposal to fight this battle.
They have to fight, not under their own power and wisdom but under His - but they have to fight! They must stand toe to toe with the enemy and by God's providence of the weapons, strategy and tactics they must fight.
I believe many a great work has been sullied if not stolen because we have not been willing (or wise enough) to take up the weapons we have. Yes, we are to put on the whole armor of God and to stand and to pray but we stand in a battle line and we are not there for show.
David wrote,
Psa 144:1-2 Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle; (2) he is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and he in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me.
As I said, we are engaged in a battle that never lets up against an enemy that never relents and we must prepare daily to be so engaged. We must prayerfully choose the weapons with which we fight and rely upon the Spirit of God to make them and our use of them effective
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
1 Peter 1:1-2 Aliens on purpose,
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.
(1Pe 1:1-2)
(1Pe 1:1-2)
Aliens: temporary residents; foreign; refugees
This is what we are but is this how we live? Or, have we been assimilated, poisoned so thoroughly that we minimize and marginalize our true citizenship? What do we desire most? Is it to live as His chosen and sanctified (set-apart) or as a citizen of this world in good standing? Do we covet and pursue what the world has to offer or do we seek His Kingdom and His righteousness? Do we strive to be at home here or do we work at a holy dissatisfaction of our lives here in view of the promise of heaven?
That we are aliens is but a fact but is it one that we intentionally pursue is all our decisions and choices? Living as an alien is not something that will just happen. It is something we must choose and with determination seek. We must decide daily where our loyalty lies and pray for the strength and guidance of the Holy Spirit to walk in it.
We are aliens by virtue of His choosing us and sanctifying us. It is an act of God that is full and final. We must choose to live out that chosenness and sanctification by the power of the Holy Spirit.
We cannot afford to drift along on the current of our culture. We can not afford to compromise our great privilege and promise. To do so is to live lives that sully the name of our Savior and brings derision to the name of our God.
We must pray for a greater sensitivity to the convicting power of the Spirit in our daily lives. We must pray that whatever scales have brought insensitivity to our conscience will be stripped away. we must pray for a holy dissatisfaction with the ways and goal and aspirations of this world and see them as the traps they are.
This is how grace and peace can truly be ours in fullest measure,
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Wait - Renew then Fly
God is good. Since we've been in West Texas we've had three cars totaled, I've battled pneumonia, been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. We have suffered the disappointment of ruptured relationships and frustration with work. And in all this the only constant has been God's provision. It's been a consistent flow of blessing. Not whoopy wow blessing but a steady stream of everyday blessings and we are blessed every day.
It's been tough and continues to be tough is some ways but even though it has been frustration after frustration we've been comforted and encouraged at just the right time in the right way from the right source.
We're trying to see what He would have us learn from this but as I have been reminded by folks back "home" perhaps we're just learning to live out lessons we've already learned. We certainly have the truth of His promises confirmed in a steady and comforting manner.
We are blessedly frustrated. But who wouldn't be having left 20 plus years of labor and wonderful relationships? We MISS all we left and that really interferes with rejoicing in what we have. There is a tension there that is hard to overcome.
I'd love to say that we are having a wilderness experience but if I really look at what He has done, the difficult and the easy I can't quite make the wilderness thing apply. Perhaps it's more like (kind of) the Babylonian Captivity (???????) We long to return to Jerusalem and as wait for Him. But that does not really work either. So we are at a lost to see clearly what He is doing (other than taking very good care of us).
Perhaps we are to "wait upon the Lord," and as we do we are to "renew our strength, as He prepares us to "mount upon on wings like eagles." Perhaps there is no clear biblical parallel to what we're going through except what is common to the lives of all believers at one point or another.
Well, whatever God is doing in our lives we are grateful. Confused but grateful!
It's been tough and continues to be tough is some ways but even though it has been frustration after frustration we've been comforted and encouraged at just the right time in the right way from the right source.
We're trying to see what He would have us learn from this but as I have been reminded by folks back "home" perhaps we're just learning to live out lessons we've already learned. We certainly have the truth of His promises confirmed in a steady and comforting manner.
We are blessedly frustrated. But who wouldn't be having left 20 plus years of labor and wonderful relationships? We MISS all we left and that really interferes with rejoicing in what we have. There is a tension there that is hard to overcome.
I'd love to say that we are having a wilderness experience but if I really look at what He has done, the difficult and the easy I can't quite make the wilderness thing apply. Perhaps it's more like (kind of) the Babylonian Captivity (???????) We long to return to Jerusalem and as wait for Him. But that does not really work either. So we are at a lost to see clearly what He is doing (other than taking very good care of us).
Perhaps we are to "wait upon the Lord," and as we do we are to "renew our strength, as He prepares us to "mount upon on wings like eagles." Perhaps there is no clear biblical parallel to what we're going through except what is common to the lives of all believers at one point or another.
Well, whatever God is doing in our lives we are grateful. Confused but grateful!
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