The Anonymous Army
Romans 8:13 (NLT)
For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.
Abraham. Noah. David. The disciples. Paul.
Heroes of the faith with their stories told thousands of years after entering into the next chapter. We marvel at their faith, draw encouragement from their writings, and learn from their mistakes. We hold them with high esteem. As well we should. But let us not forget the nameless faces- the anonymous army- who took the Gospel from these early witnesses and spread it throughout the world and history until it fell upon our ears. For there is a beautiful story. Take a few minutes and trace your story. Think back to who you first heard the Gospel- the Good News of Jesus Christ- from. Visit or call them and ask them where they first heard the Gospel.
Here’s the point…
For every Abraham, there are thousands of men and women who've shared, lived, and died for the Message. For every Psalm written by David, thousands of poems, lyrics, and songs lifted to GOD. For every Paul, thousands of teachers, writers, and mentors sharing their wealth of wisdom down to us.
In an obscure 86 page book, a man by the name of John Owen (who lived in the 1800's) shared such Gospel thoughts. And he also penned these powerful words regarding our revolution against sin. “Be killing your sin or it will be killing you.” This is both a contagious catchphrase for our revolution and a solemn reminder of what’s at stake when it comes to sin. We must not be bunkered in, but on the offensive, rooting out our deepest darkest desires, casting them into the light, facing them, then letting the light swallow them. If we don’t, then sin will inevitably lead to our demise.
Take some time to thank GOD for those who passed down the Message to you and deal with any lingering sin you may possess. There is great benefit in both.
Monday, March 31, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
The Revolution Will Be Devotionalized (1 of 5)
F*** You (an ode to sin)
John 8:32 (NLT)
And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
1 Peter 2:11 (NLT)
Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls.
Self control.
Also known as the final piece listed in the fruits of the Spirit.
An outward sign that the inward has experienced genuine change.
Perhaps the last thing you would think of when I mention “self control” is violence. Or a phrase like I used for the title of today’s devotional. But a certain tenacious and furious assault on our sin and sinful nature is necessary to quell the flesh and seek after the Object of our Joy- Jesus Christ. We have become much too comfortable with our sin, usually justifying it away with such clever catch phrases as “God’s grace is sufficient” and “God loves sinners.” We’ve called a truce with it, instructing it not to cross into certain taboo areas while allowing it to flourish in the “innocent” aspects of our lives. We rationalize: our desires are no longer evil…only misguided; our behavior isn’t abhorrent…simply our instinct.
Maybe it’s the old punk rocker in me but I’ve reached the point in my life where I want to throw one hand in the air with my spiritual middle finger stuck up and the other balled into a fist, confront my sin, and scream, “F*** you sin! I’m not going to be your friend, You won’t use me any longer. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I will dispose of your whole system, throw a wrench in your whole malevolent machine." To echo the words of our vigilant author, that we will kill “all lust in ourselves and our enslaving desires for food or caffeine or sugar or chocolate or alcohol or pornography or money or the praise of men and the approval of others or power or fame…against all impulses in our own soul toward racism and sluggish indifference…” (102-103)
Self control has little to do with passivity. And more to do with aggressive action. So throw that fist in the air and fight your sinful nature. Viva la revolucion!
John 8:32 (NLT)
And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
1 Peter 2:11 (NLT)
Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls.
Self control.
Also known as the final piece listed in the fruits of the Spirit.
An outward sign that the inward has experienced genuine change.
Perhaps the last thing you would think of when I mention “self control” is violence. Or a phrase like I used for the title of today’s devotional. But a certain tenacious and furious assault on our sin and sinful nature is necessary to quell the flesh and seek after the Object of our Joy- Jesus Christ. We have become much too comfortable with our sin, usually justifying it away with such clever catch phrases as “God’s grace is sufficient” and “God loves sinners.” We’ve called a truce with it, instructing it not to cross into certain taboo areas while allowing it to flourish in the “innocent” aspects of our lives. We rationalize: our desires are no longer evil…only misguided; our behavior isn’t abhorrent…simply our instinct.
Maybe it’s the old punk rocker in me but I’ve reached the point in my life where I want to throw one hand in the air with my spiritual middle finger stuck up and the other balled into a fist, confront my sin, and scream, “F*** you sin! I’m not going to be your friend, You won’t use me any longer. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I will dispose of your whole system, throw a wrench in your whole malevolent machine." To echo the words of our vigilant author, that we will kill “all lust in ourselves and our enslaving desires for food or caffeine or sugar or chocolate or alcohol or pornography or money or the praise of men and the approval of others or power or fame…against all impulses in our own soul toward racism and sluggish indifference…” (102-103)
Self control has little to do with passivity. And more to do with aggressive action. So throw that fist in the air and fight your sinful nature. Viva la revolucion!
Thursday, March 27, 2014
The Bicycle Diaries (5 of 5)
E Pluribus Unimpressed
1 Corinthians 12:19-24 (NLT)
How strange a body would be if it had only one part! Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.”
In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary. And the parts we regard as less honorable are those we clothe with the greatest care. So we carefully protect those parts that should not be seen, while the more honorable parts do not require this special care. So God has put the body together such that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity.
The bicycle stands as one of the most innovative inventions in history. So simple and so profound. Much like our bodies, it is one entity made of many parts, each part possessing its own small, unique role to benefit the whole. If one part breaks down, then the whole suffers.
Being the brilliant (or wise and witty) devotional subscribers you are, you realize where I'm headed with this. Much like the unsung heroes of my trek work together, we as Christ's body must do our unsung, yet unique part to glorify the whole. We aren't all pastors. We aren't all teachers. We aren't all geared toward recovery ministry. We aren't all working in an office, body shop, doctor's office, or outdoors in carpentry. If we were, one thing might get accomplished while the rest suffer. Not all the parts of my bike can be tires. I would be walking beside them because of having no frame to sit upon.
Whatever your part, whether you consider it big or small, do it for the glory of God and the good of the whole.
1 Corinthians 12:19-24 (NLT)
How strange a body would be if it had only one part! Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.”
In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary. And the parts we regard as less honorable are those we clothe with the greatest care. So we carefully protect those parts that should not be seen, while the more honorable parts do not require this special care. So God has put the body together such that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity.
The bicycle stands as one of the most innovative inventions in history. So simple and so profound. Much like our bodies, it is one entity made of many parts, each part possessing its own small, unique role to benefit the whole. If one part breaks down, then the whole suffers.
Being the brilliant (or wise and witty) devotional subscribers you are, you realize where I'm headed with this. Much like the unsung heroes of my trek work together, we as Christ's body must do our unsung, yet unique part to glorify the whole. We aren't all pastors. We aren't all teachers. We aren't all geared toward recovery ministry. We aren't all working in an office, body shop, doctor's office, or outdoors in carpentry. If we were, one thing might get accomplished while the rest suffer. Not all the parts of my bike can be tires. I would be walking beside them because of having no frame to sit upon.
Whatever your part, whether you consider it big or small, do it for the glory of God and the good of the whole.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
The Bicycle Diaries (4 of 5)
Against the Wind
James 1:2-4 (NLT)
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
Ever hit a wall?
Not a physical wall with a fist in anger.
But a wall in life…Spiritual. Emotional. Professional.
Peddling to Savannah’s soccer match last Tuesday, I discovered another devastating Delta dilemma: the unchecked furry of the wind. While I’ve bicycled through wind before, the onslaught of air furiously blowing in my face was unmerciful and unrelenting. It was, quite literally, like hitting a wall when I made the turn in that direction, the bicycle moving mere inches every time I chugged my legs. As the sweat poured and my quads transformed into limp noodles, I thought that biking into the wind is a lot like life.
The vicious winds of adversity slam into us daily, whether it comes in the form of searching for your purpose, dealing with corrupt co-workers, raging against the broken education system, negotiating family squabbles, reaching out to those who don’t want help, or displaying love to the person who stabs us in the back. Whatever form they come in, they push against us and our making it our destination and the joy that comes with it.
Last Tuesday, as I made that left and hit the wall of wind, I had a choice to make. I could have wilted under the pain and frustration and struggle that is pedaling through 20 mile an hour winds with gusts of up to 30 miles per hour. I could have turned around and ridden on the breeze back to O’Bannon or home and saved some grief. (And yes, I could have even swallowed by pride and driven over there but that’s not part of the devotional illustration). But because of the joy of seeing my daughter’s face lit up by my presence there, I sucked it up, channeled my inner Lance Armstrong (pre-steroids), and made the match.
Same with us in life. As we meet these walls, these persecutions, these struggles in our daily lives, we have a choice to make. We can retreat back into the comfort of indifference or lash out verbally. Or we can see these ferocious winds as opportunities to grow, to trust God, and remind ourselves there is great joy awaiting us.
And, despite the raging winds of life, there is joy found in the journey as well. Because Jesus never leaves us. Remember that the next time you hit your wall.
James 1:2-4 (NLT)
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
Ever hit a wall?
Not a physical wall with a fist in anger.
But a wall in life…Spiritual. Emotional. Professional.
Peddling to Savannah’s soccer match last Tuesday, I discovered another devastating Delta dilemma: the unchecked furry of the wind. While I’ve bicycled through wind before, the onslaught of air furiously blowing in my face was unmerciful and unrelenting. It was, quite literally, like hitting a wall when I made the turn in that direction, the bicycle moving mere inches every time I chugged my legs. As the sweat poured and my quads transformed into limp noodles, I thought that biking into the wind is a lot like life.
The vicious winds of adversity slam into us daily, whether it comes in the form of searching for your purpose, dealing with corrupt co-workers, raging against the broken education system, negotiating family squabbles, reaching out to those who don’t want help, or displaying love to the person who stabs us in the back. Whatever form they come in, they push against us and our making it our destination and the joy that comes with it.
Last Tuesday, as I made that left and hit the wall of wind, I had a choice to make. I could have wilted under the pain and frustration and struggle that is pedaling through 20 mile an hour winds with gusts of up to 30 miles per hour. I could have turned around and ridden on the breeze back to O’Bannon or home and saved some grief. (And yes, I could have even swallowed by pride and driven over there but that’s not part of the devotional illustration). But because of the joy of seeing my daughter’s face lit up by my presence there, I sucked it up, channeled my inner Lance Armstrong (pre-steroids), and made the match.
Same with us in life. As we meet these walls, these persecutions, these struggles in our daily lives, we have a choice to make. We can retreat back into the comfort of indifference or lash out verbally. Or we can see these ferocious winds as opportunities to grow, to trust God, and remind ourselves there is great joy awaiting us.
And, despite the raging winds of life, there is joy found in the journey as well. Because Jesus never leaves us. Remember that the next time you hit your wall.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
The Bicycle Diaries (3 of 5)
Living Simply
1 Peter 3:15 (NLT)
Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.
Oh, how the time flies. A year ago, I was in the mountains of Honduras as part of a school building mission trip. While hundreds of memories flood my mind, the simplicity of life there stuck perhaps more than any other. When I came home, I wanted to adopt that into my lifestyle. No, I wasn’t the flashiest of individuals with a ton of possessions. But I had more than I ever needed. And I found room to trim. Among the many changes I made was dusting the old bicycle off and riding it up to church, work, coffee fellowships, Savannah’s soccer practices, and basically everywhere else I can. Sure, you save money on gas and become a better steward of the earth. But there is so much more. There is the ambiance of nature, of breathing (mostly) fresh air with the sun on your face (or the occasional rain drops). There is time away from the radio and cd player, which allows more time to conversate with GOD. There are the obvious health benefits and reduced stress levels. There is the reminder of how blessed we are to have vehicles to drive in. There is the realization that you don’t even need a vehicle…or much of the wealth we’ve accumulated here. And finally, this change brought about the confidence to make even more. People talk. Word spreads. And people wonder why you’re different. Which sparks another conversation as to your reasons for doing so. Which allows us to share the Gospel. Now maybe you will never look at your old bicycle the same way again.
Begin making simple life changes today. Changes that will cause others to wonder why you’re different. And then, when the opportunity presents itself, “share the hope you have.” (see above Scripture)
1 Peter 3:15 (NLT)
Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.
Oh, how the time flies. A year ago, I was in the mountains of Honduras as part of a school building mission trip. While hundreds of memories flood my mind, the simplicity of life there stuck perhaps more than any other. When I came home, I wanted to adopt that into my lifestyle. No, I wasn’t the flashiest of individuals with a ton of possessions. But I had more than I ever needed. And I found room to trim. Among the many changes I made was dusting the old bicycle off and riding it up to church, work, coffee fellowships, Savannah’s soccer practices, and basically everywhere else I can. Sure, you save money on gas and become a better steward of the earth. But there is so much more. There is the ambiance of nature, of breathing (mostly) fresh air with the sun on your face (or the occasional rain drops). There is time away from the radio and cd player, which allows more time to conversate with GOD. There are the obvious health benefits and reduced stress levels. There is the reminder of how blessed we are to have vehicles to drive in. There is the realization that you don’t even need a vehicle…or much of the wealth we’ve accumulated here. And finally, this change brought about the confidence to make even more. People talk. Word spreads. And people wonder why you’re different. Which sparks another conversation as to your reasons for doing so. Which allows us to share the Gospel. Now maybe you will never look at your old bicycle the same way again.
Begin making simple life changes today. Changes that will cause others to wonder why you’re different. And then, when the opportunity presents itself, “share the hope you have.” (see above Scripture)
Monday, March 24, 2014
The Bicycle Diaries (2 of 5)
A Thought Crushed My Mind
Matthew 7:13-14 (NLT)
As I pedal my Trek between my humble home and my home-away-from-home (O’Bannon High School), I find myself scanning the garbage in the ditch too much. Rather than analyzing the pot-holed road ahead or the farmland being transformed or the glorious sky, my vision inevitable falls to these drainage ditches lining the sides of the road. Littering these ditches is trash of all sorts: bottles, plastic bags, packaging, car parts, road kill, McDonalds cups, flapping paper
Then a distant memory crossed my mind. As kids, we’d walk everywhere. Traipsing down the road with a friend one day, our eyes were drawn to a wad of flapping, glossy pages. My friend scooped it up first and when his eyes got really big, I lingered over his shoulder. What he flipped through was a tattered, weather-beaten copy of a porn magazine someone had tossed from a window. Although we couldn’t make out much and knew better, we leered anyway. So much so that we were late getting home and got punished.
All these years later, the lesson isn’t lost on me. While I should be walking through this life with my vision on Christ and running with eyes straight toward the finish line, I get distracted by the trash of this world. Images and possessions and money flash their wares from the ditches and steal our vision away. Then, like my friend and I as kids, we stop our journey and take a detour to see what the distraction is. Fall into sin. Miss the glory of the Son/sun surrounding us because were enamored by the garbage. Stealing our time away from the journey so much so that we could deal with the consequences of it years down the metaphorical road.
May we all remember to plod on this journey with the end in mind. A life well lived before the GOD who loves us and awaits our presence.
And the next time you see paper flapping in the breeze, trash it without looking at it. Or just keep pressing on…
Matthew 7:13-14 (NLT)
As I pedal my Trek between my humble home and my home-away-from-home (O’Bannon High School), I find myself scanning the garbage in the ditch too much. Rather than analyzing the pot-holed road ahead or the farmland being transformed or the glorious sky, my vision inevitable falls to these drainage ditches lining the sides of the road. Littering these ditches is trash of all sorts: bottles, plastic bags, packaging, car parts, road kill, McDonalds cups, flapping paper
Then a distant memory crossed my mind. As kids, we’d walk everywhere. Traipsing down the road with a friend one day, our eyes were drawn to a wad of flapping, glossy pages. My friend scooped it up first and when his eyes got really big, I lingered over his shoulder. What he flipped through was a tattered, weather-beaten copy of a porn magazine someone had tossed from a window. Although we couldn’t make out much and knew better, we leered anyway. So much so that we were late getting home and got punished.
All these years later, the lesson isn’t lost on me. While I should be walking through this life with my vision on Christ and running with eyes straight toward the finish line, I get distracted by the trash of this world. Images and possessions and money flash their wares from the ditches and steal our vision away. Then, like my friend and I as kids, we stop our journey and take a detour to see what the distraction is. Fall into sin. Miss the glory of the Son/sun surrounding us because were enamored by the garbage. Stealing our time away from the journey so much so that we could deal with the consequences of it years down the metaphorical road.
May we all remember to plod on this journey with the end in mind. A life well lived before the GOD who loves us and awaits our presence.
And the next time you see paper flapping in the breeze, trash it without looking at it. Or just keep pressing on…
Sunday, March 23, 2014
The Bicycle Diaries (1 of 5)
Seek/Grow/Reach/Serve
Matthew 10:5-8 (The Message)
5-8 Jesus sent his twelve harvest hands out with this charge:
“Don’t begin by traveling to some far-off place to convert unbelievers. And don’t try to be dramatic by tackling some public enemy. Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Tell them that the kingdom is here. Bring health to the sick. Raise the dead. Touch the untouchables. Kick out the demons. You have been treated generously, so live generously."
Riding the bicycle around town opens the door for conversations and relationships I would not have otherwise had. One morning this summer, I pedaled into the church parking lot to discover a man sitting on one of the concrete benches underneath the trees. With ragged clothing and a defeated disposition, the man stared off into nowhere and slumped forward so far I thought he may lose his balance at any second and fall headfirst into the dirt and asphalt. While I may have been tempted to drive-by in a vehicle, guiding my bike by him and ignoring him was impossible. So I spoke. And I spoke not as summer-assistant-intern pastor and he a homeless beggar; not as a white man trying to make up for past discrimination against the black population; not as an arrogant religious prick attempting to remove a blemish on the church politely. Simply as one human being to another. As one of GOD’s children to another. Sometimes it's just that easy to reach out. We speak. Say hello. Say Good Morning. Speaking is an easy form of reaching.
His half-hearted response failed to deter me. The Spirit whispered to my heart that this man was sent so I could serve. (This is exactly what I'd prayed for when John asked me to help at the church for the summer). With the addictive joy that comes with serving others, I hustled into the church and made coffee. Then I carried a cup outside to him which sparked a conversation, which sparked a relationship. Over the course of the following month, he came into the church and rested on the couches to escape the heat, helped me keep the outside of the church building tidy, and we swapped stories. In the process, I was reminded of what serving GOD’s way is all about. It's more than just telling someone “I’m praying for you.” It's more than throwing change in a bucket. It's more than flailing a hand up to wave at someone hurting. Many times this is our way of shrugging off real service. The reality, however, is serving others means getting dirty. Sometimes physically; sometimes spiritually. Sometimes both. Entering into relationships with people with real pain. Helping them out with Biblical advice, listening as they pour out their hearts, hugging their neck, investing in them (whether you get burned or not) and then walking through the struggle with them. Living LifeTogether. (pun intended). That’s serving.
Now when you think of the Refuge vision statement, maybe you’ll knock the dust off the old bicycle, hop on it, and live it before the world.
Matthew 10:5-8 (The Message)
5-8 Jesus sent his twelve harvest hands out with this charge:
“Don’t begin by traveling to some far-off place to convert unbelievers. And don’t try to be dramatic by tackling some public enemy. Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Tell them that the kingdom is here. Bring health to the sick. Raise the dead. Touch the untouchables. Kick out the demons. You have been treated generously, so live generously."
Riding the bicycle around town opens the door for conversations and relationships I would not have otherwise had. One morning this summer, I pedaled into the church parking lot to discover a man sitting on one of the concrete benches underneath the trees. With ragged clothing and a defeated disposition, the man stared off into nowhere and slumped forward so far I thought he may lose his balance at any second and fall headfirst into the dirt and asphalt. While I may have been tempted to drive-by in a vehicle, guiding my bike by him and ignoring him was impossible. So I spoke. And I spoke not as summer-assistant-intern pastor and he a homeless beggar; not as a white man trying to make up for past discrimination against the black population; not as an arrogant religious prick attempting to remove a blemish on the church politely. Simply as one human being to another. As one of GOD’s children to another. Sometimes it's just that easy to reach out. We speak. Say hello. Say Good Morning. Speaking is an easy form of reaching.
His half-hearted response failed to deter me. The Spirit whispered to my heart that this man was sent so I could serve. (This is exactly what I'd prayed for when John asked me to help at the church for the summer). With the addictive joy that comes with serving others, I hustled into the church and made coffee. Then I carried a cup outside to him which sparked a conversation, which sparked a relationship. Over the course of the following month, he came into the church and rested on the couches to escape the heat, helped me keep the outside of the church building tidy, and we swapped stories. In the process, I was reminded of what serving GOD’s way is all about. It's more than just telling someone “I’m praying for you.” It's more than throwing change in a bucket. It's more than flailing a hand up to wave at someone hurting. Many times this is our way of shrugging off real service. The reality, however, is serving others means getting dirty. Sometimes physically; sometimes spiritually. Sometimes both. Entering into relationships with people with real pain. Helping them out with Biblical advice, listening as they pour out their hearts, hugging their neck, investing in them (whether you get burned or not) and then walking through the struggle with them. Living LifeTogether. (pun intended). That’s serving.
Now when you think of the Refuge vision statement, maybe you’ll knock the dust off the old bicycle, hop on it, and live it before the world.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Gutsy Guilt (Part 2 of 2)
Micah 7:8-9 (NLT)
Do not gloat over me, my enemies!
For though I fall, I will rise again.
Though I sit in darkness,
the Lord will be my light.
I will be patient as the Lord punishes me,
for I have sinned against him.
But after that, he will take up my case
and give me justice for all I have suffered from my enemies.
The Lord will bring me into the light,
and I will see his righteousness.
As we continue our thoughts from yesterday, we witness Micah displaying the overriding lesson we've been learning: GOD does for us what we cannot do for ourselves.
Like us, Micah fell. To a sin of some sort. (Sin is sin. The specifics aren't important.) After reminding the enemy of GOD’s promises, admitting his guilt, and accepting his punishment (a period of darkness), Micah proclaims, “…until he pleads my cause…he will bring me into the light. I will look upon his vindication.” Micah harbored no illusions of saving himself by willpower. Of breaking the darkness and guilt. Of moving on with a normal life. His admission to facing the “indignation of the LORD…until he pleads my case” screams of both helplessness and powerlessness over the situation. Only GOD could rescue him. Only GOD would determine when that would be. Only GOD could forgive and restore the relationship. There is the mercy.
And now for the joy.
We are brought back into the glorious light of GOD. And, because of his “vindication” (freeing us of all guilt), he seems to shine all the brighter. Like Micah, we don’t only look upon him for what he does (or doesn't do)…but who he is. The GOD who loves us enough to allow us to live with, and then through, the consequences of our sin. In his power. And in his time.
May Micah’s mantra become your own.
Do not gloat over me, my enemies!
For though I fall, I will rise again.
Though I sit in darkness,
the Lord will be my light.
I will be patient as the Lord punishes me,
for I have sinned against him.
But after that, he will take up my case
and give me justice for all I have suffered from my enemies.
The Lord will bring me into the light,
and I will see his righteousness.
As we continue our thoughts from yesterday, we witness Micah displaying the overriding lesson we've been learning: GOD does for us what we cannot do for ourselves.
Like us, Micah fell. To a sin of some sort. (Sin is sin. The specifics aren't important.) After reminding the enemy of GOD’s promises, admitting his guilt, and accepting his punishment (a period of darkness), Micah proclaims, “…until he pleads my cause…he will bring me into the light. I will look upon his vindication.” Micah harbored no illusions of saving himself by willpower. Of breaking the darkness and guilt. Of moving on with a normal life. His admission to facing the “indignation of the LORD…until he pleads my case” screams of both helplessness and powerlessness over the situation. Only GOD could rescue him. Only GOD would determine when that would be. Only GOD could forgive and restore the relationship. There is the mercy.
And now for the joy.
We are brought back into the glorious light of GOD. And, because of his “vindication” (freeing us of all guilt), he seems to shine all the brighter. Like Micah, we don’t only look upon him for what he does (or doesn't do)…but who he is. The GOD who loves us enough to allow us to live with, and then through, the consequences of our sin. In his power. And in his time.
May Micah’s mantra become your own.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Gutsy Guilt (Part 1 of 2)
Micah 7:8-9 (NLT)
Do not gloat over me, my enemies!
For though I fall, I will rise again.
Though I sit in darkness,
the Lord will be my light.
I will be patient as the Lord punishes me,
for I have sinned against him.
But after that, he will take up my case
and give me justice for all I have suffered from my enemies.
The Lord will bring me into the light,
and I will see his righteousness.
Countless fights await us in our seeking out joy. In many of these struggles, we will fall, falter, and fail. When (not if) this happens, our enemy pounces. Feeding off of our shame and guilt. Hurling it in our face. It is in these times where our adversary screams and spits (or whispers) how GOD couldn’t possibly love us that we must echo Micah’s rebellious cry, “Rejoice not over me my enemy! I’ve fallen, but I will get up! The LORD will light up my darkness, somehow, someway.” Our faith in the promises of GOD must be such that we respond with the end in mind. Yes, we’ll fall flat on our faces but we know GOD is reaching out to help. And we reach…
That’s Gutsy.
Now for the guilt part. Notice that Micah doesn't casually confess his sin and move on. Not only does he admit his indiscretion, he will “bear the indignation of the LORD.” For he did sin. How often do we shrug off our mistakes, call out in confession to feel better, and progress with life as usual. As if no atrocity has occurred. I’m not saying we should wallow in guilt and shame but there must be a brokenness. We've gotten so comfortable with the mercy of GOD that we've forgotten his anger at sin. Not the anger of a judge condemning a recurring criminal but the righteous anger of a father who knows his children are making mistakes they don’t have to make. So to, we must “bear the indignation of the LORD” or what the Apostle Paul referred to as “Godly sorrow”. If that means a period of depression, cry out to GOD; if it means confessing your discrepancy to a packed-out church, embarrass yourself; if that means losing enjoyment for a season, remind yourself of the consequences your actions have. The mercy will return. And the return will be sweeter than you thought possible. But for the moment, grin and bear it.
That’s guilt.
To be continued…
Do not gloat over me, my enemies!
For though I fall, I will rise again.
Though I sit in darkness,
the Lord will be my light.
I will be patient as the Lord punishes me,
for I have sinned against him.
But after that, he will take up my case
and give me justice for all I have suffered from my enemies.
The Lord will bring me into the light,
and I will see his righteousness.
Countless fights await us in our seeking out joy. In many of these struggles, we will fall, falter, and fail. When (not if) this happens, our enemy pounces. Feeding off of our shame and guilt. Hurling it in our face. It is in these times where our adversary screams and spits (or whispers) how GOD couldn’t possibly love us that we must echo Micah’s rebellious cry, “Rejoice not over me my enemy! I’ve fallen, but I will get up! The LORD will light up my darkness, somehow, someway.” Our faith in the promises of GOD must be such that we respond with the end in mind. Yes, we’ll fall flat on our faces but we know GOD is reaching out to help. And we reach…
That’s Gutsy.
Now for the guilt part. Notice that Micah doesn't casually confess his sin and move on. Not only does he admit his indiscretion, he will “bear the indignation of the LORD.” For he did sin. How often do we shrug off our mistakes, call out in confession to feel better, and progress with life as usual. As if no atrocity has occurred. I’m not saying we should wallow in guilt and shame but there must be a brokenness. We've gotten so comfortable with the mercy of GOD that we've forgotten his anger at sin. Not the anger of a judge condemning a recurring criminal but the righteous anger of a father who knows his children are making mistakes they don’t have to make. So to, we must “bear the indignation of the LORD” or what the Apostle Paul referred to as “Godly sorrow”. If that means a period of depression, cry out to GOD; if it means confessing your discrepancy to a packed-out church, embarrass yourself; if that means losing enjoyment for a season, remind yourself of the consequences your actions have. The mercy will return. And the return will be sweeter than you thought possible. But for the moment, grin and bear it.
That’s guilt.
To be continued…
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
The John In Us All
2 Timothy 4:2 (NLT)
Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
Disclaimer: What you are about to read may challenge your old way of thinking and infuse a shot of truth into it. That being said, you will be accountable for acting on the words you read. So, if it just so happens that you are the type of person who reads something from the Bible or a provocative book and say, “Oh, man. I wish I never would have read that,” you may want to stop now, click on the next email or website, and move on with your comfortable life. If you’re courageous, then press on we shall. Swallow the pill and let it begin…End of Disclaimer.
Although a friend first, John (the Pastor not the Baptist) is the pastor of our flock of Refugees. But were you aware that Refuge actually contains dozens of preachers. Furthermore, did you realize that if you’re perusing this devotion, you are one of those preachers…(you were warned!)
The word “preach” comes from the Greek phrase meaning “to proclaim.” As in publicly proclaiming some sort of information or news. Whether we realize it or not, every time we open our mouths we are publicly proclaiming something. That something may be-
I live for SEC football, or
I like talking about other people and their issues, or
I am preoccupied by the weather, or
I hate my job and want to move, or
I love to share Jesus with others, or
I am a family man, or
I enjoy living simply, or
I relish serving others…
Every time we open our mouths we are preaching, proclaiming to the world what is of the utmost importance to us, what is worthy of our conversations, time, and energy. And even more so than our words are the actions behind our words. May it be said of us that every time we open our mouths, we are preaching Jesus at the center of all. And then may our lives reflect what we say.
Now you “see” that John isn't the only one “called” to preach!
Welcome to the ministry…preach on-
Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
Disclaimer: What you are about to read may challenge your old way of thinking and infuse a shot of truth into it. That being said, you will be accountable for acting on the words you read. So, if it just so happens that you are the type of person who reads something from the Bible or a provocative book and say, “Oh, man. I wish I never would have read that,” you may want to stop now, click on the next email or website, and move on with your comfortable life. If you’re courageous, then press on we shall. Swallow the pill and let it begin…End of Disclaimer.
Although a friend first, John (the Pastor not the Baptist) is the pastor of our flock of Refugees. But were you aware that Refuge actually contains dozens of preachers. Furthermore, did you realize that if you’re perusing this devotion, you are one of those preachers…(you were warned!)
The word “preach” comes from the Greek phrase meaning “to proclaim.” As in publicly proclaiming some sort of information or news. Whether we realize it or not, every time we open our mouths we are publicly proclaiming something. That something may be-
I live for SEC football, or
I like talking about other people and their issues, or
I am preoccupied by the weather, or
I hate my job and want to move, or
I love to share Jesus with others, or
I am a family man, or
I enjoy living simply, or
I relish serving others…
Every time we open our mouths we are preaching, proclaiming to the world what is of the utmost importance to us, what is worthy of our conversations, time, and energy. And even more so than our words are the actions behind our words. May it be said of us that every time we open our mouths, we are preaching Jesus at the center of all. And then may our lives reflect what we say.
Now you “see” that John isn't the only one “called” to preach!
Welcome to the ministry…preach on-
Monday, March 17, 2014
Jesus Christ (Part 2 of 2): Dying for His Joy
John 15:11 (NLT)
I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!
John 17:13 (NLT)
Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.
Matthew 25:23 (NLT)
“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’
“Jesus died not only for us but for his own everlasting joy.”
What thoughts come to your mind after a statement like that?
You may think I’m blasphemous. You may argue me down. You may relate that Jesus was perfect and without sin and didn’t have to die for himself. You may declare me a instigator unleashing fodder for a Facebook drama.
Whatever your thoughts, this remains: GOD sent Jesus with a mission- to reconcile us to GOD. Had Jesus not been obedient to that calling, you and I would already be as good as dead. Facing the wrath of GOD for our willful sin. But Jesus, who is rich in mercy, lived a selfless obedient life and died a selfless obedient death. In doing so, in shedding his blood as a redeeming offering and obediently dying on that cross, he insured not only salvation and joy for us…but for himself as well. From the beginning, his joy has always been us. The restoration of that intimate relationship brings him more than joy that it even brings us. Imagine what joy an eternity together will bring.
When times get tough today, remember how valuable you are to GOD. You are his joy!
I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!
John 17:13 (NLT)
Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.
Matthew 25:23 (NLT)
“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’
“Jesus died not only for us but for his own everlasting joy.”
What thoughts come to your mind after a statement like that?
You may think I’m blasphemous. You may argue me down. You may relate that Jesus was perfect and without sin and didn’t have to die for himself. You may declare me a instigator unleashing fodder for a Facebook drama.
Whatever your thoughts, this remains: GOD sent Jesus with a mission- to reconcile us to GOD. Had Jesus not been obedient to that calling, you and I would already be as good as dead. Facing the wrath of GOD for our willful sin. But Jesus, who is rich in mercy, lived a selfless obedient life and died a selfless obedient death. In doing so, in shedding his blood as a redeeming offering and obediently dying on that cross, he insured not only salvation and joy for us…but for himself as well. From the beginning, his joy has always been us. The restoration of that intimate relationship brings him more than joy that it even brings us. Imagine what joy an eternity together will bring.
When times get tough today, remember how valuable you are to GOD. You are his joy!
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Jesus Christ (Part 1 of 2): Savior and Our Joy
Many Scriptures (see below)
Every once in a while (which should be more often), I must force myself out of the way, shut completely up, and allow the Scripture to do all the speaking. I feel led to do this now. These verses have shaped my perceptions of how beautiful Jesus Christ truly is and the joyful significance of what he did on that cross. I’m writing down the references and graciously thank Jason (the wiser and wittier) for compiling and pasting them. Read them. Ponder them. Savor them. Then thank and praise the One behind it all.
Galatians 3:13 (NLT)
But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”
Romans 8:33-34 (NLT)
Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.
Ephesians 1:7 (NLT)
He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.
2 Corinthians 5:21 (NLT)
For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin,[a] so that we could be made right with God through Christ.
Romans 5:19 (NLT)
Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous.
John 3:16 (NLT)
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
1 Peter 2:24 (NLT)
He personally carried our sins
in his body on the cross
so that we can be dead to sin
and live for what is right.
By his wounds
you are healed.
2 Corinthians 5:15 (NLT)
He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.
Romans 8:28 (NLT)
And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:32 (NLT)
Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else?
1 Peter 3:18 (NLT)
Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.
Every once in a while (which should be more often), I must force myself out of the way, shut completely up, and allow the Scripture to do all the speaking. I feel led to do this now. These verses have shaped my perceptions of how beautiful Jesus Christ truly is and the joyful significance of what he did on that cross. I’m writing down the references and graciously thank Jason (the wiser and wittier) for compiling and pasting them. Read them. Ponder them. Savor them. Then thank and praise the One behind it all.
Galatians 3:13 (NLT)
But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”
Romans 8:33-34 (NLT)
Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.
Ephesians 1:7 (NLT)
He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.
2 Corinthians 5:21 (NLT)
For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin,[a] so that we could be made right with God through Christ.
Romans 5:19 (NLT)
Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous.
John 3:16 (NLT)
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
1 Peter 2:24 (NLT)
He personally carried our sins
in his body on the cross
so that we can be dead to sin
and live for what is right.
By his wounds
you are healed.
2 Corinthians 5:15 (NLT)
He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.
Romans 8:28 (NLT)
And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:32 (NLT)
Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else?
1 Peter 3:18 (NLT)
Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Kathoratai
Romans 1:18-20 (NLT)
But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
Psalm 19:1-2 (NLT)
The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The skies display his craftsmanship.
Day after day they continue to speak;
night after night they make him known.
Early in my walk with Christ, I attended this one Sunday School class/small group which dove off into such topics as: If a person was born and abandoned on a desert island and never hears the Gospel but looks out over the ecosystem of the island and says there must be a God who created all this. Would that person be guilty of not accepting Jesus and thus, burn in the fires of hell rather than the ecstasies of heaven.
If we read Scripture, the entire scenario becomes a moot point. Our guilt before God won’t come because we didn’t “see” God. Our reading clearly states that God is clearly seen through his eternal power, divine mystery, the world surrounding us. No excuses there. Our shameless guilt comes into effect when we see the glory of God, then suppress that truth by ignoring it, writing it off to coincidence and conjecture, declare it an accident, or flat-out deny its existence.
This happens the most with nature. We see the beautiful world around us. The majesty of a Delta sunset. The wrath of a severe thunderstorm. The crops spouting from the ground. The abundant harvest rolling in. The birds singing their hears out. The branches of trees lifted as arms worshiping, swaying in the breeze. We see these things and have to admit there is Someone bigger out there. It's at that point that we either cry out to Him or bury that truth and declare all this to be a happy accident.
Humble ourselves and the Gospel will find us; suppress that truth and pinch out the flame of joy.
Nature- and everything a part of it-point to joy in God.
But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
Psalm 19:1-2 (NLT)
The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The skies display his craftsmanship.
Day after day they continue to speak;
night after night they make him known.
Early in my walk with Christ, I attended this one Sunday School class/small group which dove off into such topics as: If a person was born and abandoned on a desert island and never hears the Gospel but looks out over the ecosystem of the island and says there must be a God who created all this. Would that person be guilty of not accepting Jesus and thus, burn in the fires of hell rather than the ecstasies of heaven.
If we read Scripture, the entire scenario becomes a moot point. Our guilt before God won’t come because we didn’t “see” God. Our reading clearly states that God is clearly seen through his eternal power, divine mystery, the world surrounding us. No excuses there. Our shameless guilt comes into effect when we see the glory of God, then suppress that truth by ignoring it, writing it off to coincidence and conjecture, declare it an accident, or flat-out deny its existence.
This happens the most with nature. We see the beautiful world around us. The majesty of a Delta sunset. The wrath of a severe thunderstorm. The crops spouting from the ground. The abundant harvest rolling in. The birds singing their hears out. The branches of trees lifted as arms worshiping, swaying in the breeze. We see these things and have to admit there is Someone bigger out there. It's at that point that we either cry out to Him or bury that truth and declare all this to be a happy accident.
Humble ourselves and the Gospel will find us; suppress that truth and pinch out the flame of joy.
Nature- and everything a part of it-point to joy in God.
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Hope of Glory
Romans 5:2 (NLT)
Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
Before departing for Indonesia, my friend Missionary Nate introduced me to a friend’s band he’d met at missionary school. They stuck out first off because of their name- Hope of Glory. They banged out hard, punkish songs of struggle, survival, and salvation. They struck a nerve, especially with their cover of an obscure song by the band sixfeetdeep (who I also love for the record). Their songs offered me hope, encouragement, and strength. And much like our own Refuge band, they’re music left me wanting more…
Hoping for more…
Our daily (or hourly) relationship with Jesus is very similar. As is the joy we discover through him. Once we have witnessed his glory, it brings hope of seeing more and more of that glory. A perfect circle. Our delight brings more desire which brings more delight which…you get the picture. When we begin to desire and delight in Him above all, a greater joy ensues when we realize there will always be more and more of him.
Some people wiser than myself say that life is a dress rehearsal of sorts. A build up of hope for the coming complete and utter joy found in the Presence of GOD, unshackled from the confines of this sin-craving, fleshly body. Joy brings this hope of future glory…but it also brings with it the hope of joy today.
Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
Before departing for Indonesia, my friend Missionary Nate introduced me to a friend’s band he’d met at missionary school. They stuck out first off because of their name- Hope of Glory. They banged out hard, punkish songs of struggle, survival, and salvation. They struck a nerve, especially with their cover of an obscure song by the band sixfeetdeep (who I also love for the record). Their songs offered me hope, encouragement, and strength. And much like our own Refuge band, they’re music left me wanting more…
Hoping for more…
Our daily (or hourly) relationship with Jesus is very similar. As is the joy we discover through him. Once we have witnessed his glory, it brings hope of seeing more and more of that glory. A perfect circle. Our delight brings more desire which brings more delight which…you get the picture. When we begin to desire and delight in Him above all, a greater joy ensues when we realize there will always be more and more of him.
Some people wiser than myself say that life is a dress rehearsal of sorts. A build up of hope for the coming complete and utter joy found in the Presence of GOD, unshackled from the confines of this sin-craving, fleshly body. Joy brings this hope of future glory…but it also brings with it the hope of joy today.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Reflections of GOD
Isaiah 43:6-7 (NLT)
I will say to the north and south,
‘Bring my sons and daughters back to Israel
from the distant corners of the earth.
Bring all who claim me as their God,
for I have made them for my glory.
It was I who created them.’
For many, self-esteem is a paralyzing issue. An issue that robs of us much joy in this life. If this is the case for you (or even if it's not), ponder the following statements:
We were created to be the glory of GOD.
We were created for the glory of GOD.
Now pause and allow that opening salvo to sink in. Seriously. Stop reading this now and think about that 1-2 combination.
Put in this perspective now, our self-esteem should skyrocket. While not diminishing the hurts, habits, and hang-ups we struggle with, the truth must be realized. The truth of what GOD says about us. We are truly special to him. Not because of what we have to offer- vast wealth, fashionable clothing, rugged good looks, slender beauty, unearthly intelligence, witty humor. But simply because he created us the way we are for his glory.
During my recovery some years ago, I had this friend who made me write down adjectives which described my feelings (I struggled mightily with self-esteem). He then made me comb the Scriptures to see what GOD said about those things. It changed things. I went from basing my esteem off of my outward appearance to analyzing my heart, for that is what really matters to GOD (1 Samuel 16:7). And I encourage you to do the same. Whether in recovery or on a daily basis.
Anytime you feel yourself slipping into self-esteem issues, hard though they may be, keep in mind what GOD thinks about you. How you are a reflection of His glory. How when we reflect GOD by delighting in him, his glory shines all the more. Shine on…
I will say to the north and south,
‘Bring my sons and daughters back to Israel
from the distant corners of the earth.
Bring all who claim me as their God,
for I have made them for my glory.
It was I who created them.’
For many, self-esteem is a paralyzing issue. An issue that robs of us much joy in this life. If this is the case for you (or even if it's not), ponder the following statements:
We were created to be the glory of GOD.
We were created for the glory of GOD.
Now pause and allow that opening salvo to sink in. Seriously. Stop reading this now and think about that 1-2 combination.
Put in this perspective now, our self-esteem should skyrocket. While not diminishing the hurts, habits, and hang-ups we struggle with, the truth must be realized. The truth of what GOD says about us. We are truly special to him. Not because of what we have to offer- vast wealth, fashionable clothing, rugged good looks, slender beauty, unearthly intelligence, witty humor. But simply because he created us the way we are for his glory.
During my recovery some years ago, I had this friend who made me write down adjectives which described my feelings (I struggled mightily with self-esteem). He then made me comb the Scriptures to see what GOD said about those things. It changed things. I went from basing my esteem off of my outward appearance to analyzing my heart, for that is what really matters to GOD (1 Samuel 16:7). And I encourage you to do the same. Whether in recovery or on a daily basis.
Anytime you feel yourself slipping into self-esteem issues, hard though they may be, keep in mind what GOD thinks about you. How you are a reflection of His glory. How when we reflect GOD by delighting in him, his glory shines all the more. Shine on…
Monday, March 10, 2014
Blind
Psalm 135:15-18 (NLT)
The idols of the nations are merely things of silver and gold,
shaped by human hands.
They have mouths but cannot speak,
and eyes but cannot see.
They have ears but cannot hear,
and noses but cannot smell.
And those who make idols are just like them,
as are all who trust in them.
Acts 28:27 (NLT)
For the hearts of these people are hardened,
and their ears cannot hear,
and they have closed their eyes—
so their eyes cannot see,
and their ears cannot hear,
and their hearts cannot understand,
and they cannot turn to me
and let me heal them.
Blind irony.
The things we look at most are what keep us from actually seeing.
Since the dawn of time, people have created. We were made in GOD’s image. GOD is Creator. Thus, we create. It’s a beautiful thing until…
The problem arises when our own creations replace the Original Creator. While we may avoid bowing down to statues and golden calves, we've created such technological wonders as television, the internet, video games, iPhones, and the like. No, there is nothing inherently wrong with them unless they become idols. And we spend massive amounts of time allowing these things to consume our vision, our minds, our lives. And if it's not these things, there are others. Countless others. Vying for our time. Interrupting our prayers. Dumbing us down in a spiritual sense.
They must be removed as idols if we are to see GOD and the full extent of his glory, which is genuine joy. Furthermore, if you've been following these LifeTogether devotions, you already know what is coming: Only GOD can remove the scales from our eyes. Only he can help us truly see. Only he can give us the strength to smash (or simply turn off) these “things, toys, and technology” to discover him as the Source of Joy.
May all the things, toys, and technology in your life glorify- not deprive you of- the Creator today.
The idols of the nations are merely things of silver and gold,
shaped by human hands.
They have mouths but cannot speak,
and eyes but cannot see.
They have ears but cannot hear,
and noses but cannot smell.
And those who make idols are just like them,
as are all who trust in them.
Acts 28:27 (NLT)
For the hearts of these people are hardened,
and their ears cannot hear,
and they have closed their eyes—
so their eyes cannot see,
and their ears cannot hear,
and their hearts cannot understand,
and they cannot turn to me
and let me heal them.
Blind irony.
The things we look at most are what keep us from actually seeing.
Since the dawn of time, people have created. We were made in GOD’s image. GOD is Creator. Thus, we create. It’s a beautiful thing until…
The problem arises when our own creations replace the Original Creator. While we may avoid bowing down to statues and golden calves, we've created such technological wonders as television, the internet, video games, iPhones, and the like. No, there is nothing inherently wrong with them unless they become idols. And we spend massive amounts of time allowing these things to consume our vision, our minds, our lives. And if it's not these things, there are others. Countless others. Vying for our time. Interrupting our prayers. Dumbing us down in a spiritual sense.
They must be removed as idols if we are to see GOD and the full extent of his glory, which is genuine joy. Furthermore, if you've been following these LifeTogether devotions, you already know what is coming: Only GOD can remove the scales from our eyes. Only he can help us truly see. Only he can give us the strength to smash (or simply turn off) these “things, toys, and technology” to discover him as the Source of Joy.
May all the things, toys, and technology in your life glorify- not deprive you of- the Creator today.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
The Truth Is Out There
Proverbs 19:21 (NLT)
You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.
If you’re the type of person who needs such labels, the theme of the week has been: “Joy is a gift of GOD. But we must still act on it, not passively seek it.” With that truth in mind, our author offers five reasons why this truth matters. Despite the temptation to comment on these, I will defer to him. Ponder these for a few minutes today.
1. We should first believe and embrace this truth whether or not it benefits us.
2. Our joy is multiplied because it is compounded with gratitude
3. The truth causes us to seek GOD with greater urgency
4. This joy prevents us from falling into legalism.
5. Our joy always points to the glory of GOD
I pray that we embrace such truth. And remember that it's not about us.
You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.
If you’re the type of person who needs such labels, the theme of the week has been: “Joy is a gift of GOD. But we must still act on it, not passively seek it.” With that truth in mind, our author offers five reasons why this truth matters. Despite the temptation to comment on these, I will defer to him. Ponder these for a few minutes today.
1. We should first believe and embrace this truth whether or not it benefits us.
2. Our joy is multiplied because it is compounded with gratitude
3. The truth causes us to seek GOD with greater urgency
4. This joy prevents us from falling into legalism.
5. Our joy always points to the glory of GOD
I pray that we embrace such truth. And remember that it's not about us.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
The Penitent Heart
Acts 2:37-38 (NLT)
Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
From one famous Scripture to another.
Growing always involves pain. As children, our bodies hurt (especially my shins) as they grew and adjusted. Like those physical growing pains, anguish arises as we spiritually mature, as we wrestle with truth and thoughts and ideas and feelings. Seeing things in a new way is challenging because we must be rooted in Biblical truth and be open enough to GOD that he reveals new things within it.
Such was my dilemma upon reading the following: Repentance is a gift from GOD and God’s work as well.
I had always thought that repentance was the one thing I controlled in the whole “new creation” process. But if repentance means pulling a one-eighty and turning completely away from the old way of life, then GOD must be the producer of repentance as well. Looking back, I tried (and failed miserably) more times than I care to admit to repent, to be done with my life of sin and walk in a new direction. By outward appearances, it may even seem to be possible. Repentance, however, is a heart issue first, then flows outward. And you can’t fake that very long.
Much about GOD is still a vast mystery to me. I feel like I’m just scratching the surface (and I'm probably not even that far along.) I’m beginning to see that this whole relationship with Jesus is more one-sided than I ever thought. Recognizing my need for GOD, believing in him, salvation, confession, the Holy Spirit, and now repentance has everything to do with GOD and less and less (if anything) to do with me.
Thank you for repentance LORD!
Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
From one famous Scripture to another.
Growing always involves pain. As children, our bodies hurt (especially my shins) as they grew and adjusted. Like those physical growing pains, anguish arises as we spiritually mature, as we wrestle with truth and thoughts and ideas and feelings. Seeing things in a new way is challenging because we must be rooted in Biblical truth and be open enough to GOD that he reveals new things within it.
Such was my dilemma upon reading the following: Repentance is a gift from GOD and God’s work as well.
I had always thought that repentance was the one thing I controlled in the whole “new creation” process. But if repentance means pulling a one-eighty and turning completely away from the old way of life, then GOD must be the producer of repentance as well. Looking back, I tried (and failed miserably) more times than I care to admit to repent, to be done with my life of sin and walk in a new direction. By outward appearances, it may even seem to be possible. Repentance, however, is a heart issue first, then flows outward. And you can’t fake that very long.
Much about GOD is still a vast mystery to me. I feel like I’m just scratching the surface (and I'm probably not even that far along.) I’m beginning to see that this whole relationship with Jesus is more one-sided than I ever thought. Recognizing my need for GOD, believing in him, salvation, confession, the Holy Spirit, and now repentance has everything to do with GOD and less and less (if anything) to do with me.
Thank you for repentance LORD!
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Drawn In
John 6:44 (NLT)
For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me, and at the last day I will raise them up.
John 6:65 (NLT)
Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”
John 3:6-8 (NLT)
Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.”
John 3:16 (NLT)
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
Quite simply, the world’s most famous verse. Billions around the globe can quote it. Millions can relate in more than one language. A few even live it. You see it as close as the bumper on the car in front of you and as far away as a soccer match in Europe (maybe that one is just me). But before we can “believe in him,” we must first be drawn to that belief. Drawn to him. Therefore, those previous fifteen verses in the third chapter of John are just as powerful and the more prolific sixteenth verse.
GOD is spirit. So he operates on a different playing field than us. He blows where, and how, he wants. He possesses all of the control. He reveals himself to whomever he desires, whenever he desires, and however he desires. When he blows through our heart, and we witness Jesus as the treasure he is, we can believe in, then walk with him.
Jesus reemphasizes this further with those scriptures from chapter six. We can’t magically produce a relationship with Jesus. We can’t change our life using our focused willpower. We can’t alter our mindset and self-destructive behaviors. We can’t even realize how sin-stained and broken we are…but GOD can. And he chooses to both reveal it to us and rescue us from it. Praise GOD!
Whether through the devotion or the sunrise, GOD is drawing you to him this morning. Take a moment to thank him for the gift that is.
For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me, and at the last day I will raise them up.
John 6:65 (NLT)
Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”
John 3:6-8 (NLT)
Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.”
John 3:16 (NLT)
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
Quite simply, the world’s most famous verse. Billions around the globe can quote it. Millions can relate in more than one language. A few even live it. You see it as close as the bumper on the car in front of you and as far away as a soccer match in Europe (maybe that one is just me). But before we can “believe in him,” we must first be drawn to that belief. Drawn to him. Therefore, those previous fifteen verses in the third chapter of John are just as powerful and the more prolific sixteenth verse.
GOD is spirit. So he operates on a different playing field than us. He blows where, and how, he wants. He possesses all of the control. He reveals himself to whomever he desires, whenever he desires, and however he desires. When he blows through our heart, and we witness Jesus as the treasure he is, we can believe in, then walk with him.
Jesus reemphasizes this further with those scriptures from chapter six. We can’t magically produce a relationship with Jesus. We can’t change our life using our focused willpower. We can’t alter our mindset and self-destructive behaviors. We can’t even realize how sin-stained and broken we are…but GOD can. And he chooses to both reveal it to us and rescue us from it. Praise GOD!
Whether through the devotion or the sunrise, GOD is drawing you to him this morning. Take a moment to thank him for the gift that is.
Monday, March 3, 2014
Identity Crisis
Romans 3:23 (NLT)
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.
Jeremiah 17:9 (NLT)
The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?
It happens.
No, not that.
An identity crisis.
Usually more than once.
Attempting to figure out your identity in the world is difficult enough. Not even going there. But what happens when an identity crisis arises as a Christ-follower?
Like me, you may have come across seemingly conflicting views of our identity in Christ. I embarked on one study which related (and Biblically backed up) that I’m a saint who still happens to sin. I went through another that told me (and Biblically reinforced) that I’m still a wretched, flesh-driven sinner who can’t stop sinning. Period. And, finally, I came across studies in recovery which labeled me everything from “an alcoholic” to a “new creation,” from a “sinner saved by grace” to “an addict.” All rooted in the Bible.
With all these thoughts and their Scriptural foundations floating around, what can we say about our actual identity in Jesus?
I humbly offer this: it's both. It's all. It’s a paradox. It’s a dichotomy. We are saints. We are sinners. We are unconditionally loved and accepted despite our depraved sin-addicted flesh. We are saved by grace through faith and become a new creation. Although not wanting to, we sin anyway. We are an eternal soul precariously wrapped in corporeal flesh.
In the midst of all our future identity crises, simply say, “I’m Jesus’” And be at peace with that.
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.
Jeremiah 17:9 (NLT)
The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?
It happens.
No, not that.
An identity crisis.
Usually more than once.
Attempting to figure out your identity in the world is difficult enough. Not even going there. But what happens when an identity crisis arises as a Christ-follower?
Like me, you may have come across seemingly conflicting views of our identity in Christ. I embarked on one study which related (and Biblically backed up) that I’m a saint who still happens to sin. I went through another that told me (and Biblically reinforced) that I’m still a wretched, flesh-driven sinner who can’t stop sinning. Period. And, finally, I came across studies in recovery which labeled me everything from “an alcoholic” to a “new creation,” from a “sinner saved by grace” to “an addict.” All rooted in the Bible.
With all these thoughts and their Scriptural foundations floating around, what can we say about our actual identity in Jesus?
I humbly offer this: it's both. It's all. It’s a paradox. It’s a dichotomy. We are saints. We are sinners. We are unconditionally loved and accepted despite our depraved sin-addicted flesh. We are saved by grace through faith and become a new creation. Although not wanting to, we sin anyway. We are an eternal soul precariously wrapped in corporeal flesh.
In the midst of all our future identity crises, simply say, “I’m Jesus’” And be at peace with that.
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Monday, Monday
Philemon 4:4 (NLT)
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!
Monday mornings happen to writers as well. My jumpdrive with your beloved devotions upon it was left at church yesterday. Rather than throwing an old devotion up on the screen, I ask that you reflect back over the previous month. Reexamine the LifeTogether devotions and Scriptures. See where you have grown. Ask GOD for help in the areas you struggle with or lack understanding. Know that, despite the tough nature of the material, I’m walking through this with you. Remember that they are designed to help you grow, not feel horrible about yourself. May your desire and delight continue to be in GOD alone. Press on-
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!
Monday mornings happen to writers as well. My jumpdrive with your beloved devotions upon it was left at church yesterday. Rather than throwing an old devotion up on the screen, I ask that you reflect back over the previous month. Reexamine the LifeTogether devotions and Scriptures. See where you have grown. Ask GOD for help in the areas you struggle with or lack understanding. Know that, despite the tough nature of the material, I’m walking through this with you. Remember that they are designed to help you grow, not feel horrible about yourself. May your desire and delight continue to be in GOD alone. Press on-
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