Proverbs 8:15-16 (ESV Strong's)
By me kings reign,
and rulers decree what is just;
by me princes rule,
and nobles, all who govern justly.
Subject: Leadership
You can go to any book store and find hundreds of books on leadership. Each book will outline or emphasize skill-sets leaders should possess, operate by, and/or develop. After reading a number of these manuscripts it would become apparent that few, if any, outline what Solomon just told us in the above proverb. There is no doubt that most leadership gurus would tell you that wisdom is a vital part of leadership. However, few write about it and tell us what Solomon has told us. Solomon is a king and is in the best position to tell us about this aspect of leadership. He was given a leadership position at an early age. When asked by God what he wanted to be able to lead, Solomon didn't ask for any skill-set written by most leadership authors. Instead, he asked for wisdom. That is why in this chapter of Proverbs, where Wisdom is personified a someone calling out to the passer-by of life, wisdom is the principle thing every leader needs. Wisdom comes from the Fear of the Lord. Every leader is established by God and should live in the fear of the Lord. Those that do, have success in their leadership. Those that don't, don't!
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Subject: Servanthood to God - Psalm 78-80
Psalms 78:70-71 (ESV Strong's)
He chose David his servant
and took him from the sheepfolds;
from following the nursing ewes he brought him
to shepherd Jacob his people,
Israel his inheritance.
Subject: Servanthood
Where does God get his leaders?
1. Abraham - a lone man in a small country - Acts 7:2
2. Moses - a shepherd in front of a burning bush who once was raised by a king's daughter - Exodus 1-4
3. Amos - A shepherd - Amos 1:1
4. Peter, James and John - Fishermen - Matthew 4
5. Paul - A Pharisee - Philippians 3:5
6. Zephaniah - A Kings son - Zephaniah 1:1
7. Samuel - A little boy - 1 Samuel 3
What more could be said of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jepthath (these four listed in Hebrews 11) and many others. God doesn't need what our corporations, educational institutions or business and industry and trade unions need. God can and dose us and equip those He wants in leadership for His plan.
He chose David his servant
and took him from the sheepfolds;
from following the nursing ewes he brought him
to shepherd Jacob his people,
Israel his inheritance.
Subject: Servanthood
Where does God get his leaders?
1. Abraham - a lone man in a small country - Acts 7:2
2. Moses - a shepherd in front of a burning bush who once was raised by a king's daughter - Exodus 1-4
3. Amos - A shepherd - Amos 1:1
4. Peter, James and John - Fishermen - Matthew 4
5. Paul - A Pharisee - Philippians 3:5
6. Zephaniah - A Kings son - Zephaniah 1:1
7. Samuel - A little boy - 1 Samuel 3
What more could be said of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jepthath (these four listed in Hebrews 11) and many others. God doesn't need what our corporations, educational institutions or business and industry and trade unions need. God can and dose us and equip those He wants in leadership for His plan.
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Subject: Greed and Service - 2 Kings 1-5
2 Kings 5:19b-20(ESV Strong's)
But when Naaman had gone from him a short distance, Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, “See, my master has spared this Naaman the Syrian, in not accepting from his hand what he brought. As the Lord lives, I will run after him and get something from him.”
Subject: Greed and Service
Gehazi was a servant of Elisha. Elisha was a prophet of God, who at one time, was a servant of Elijah. When Elijah went to be with God in a miracle accession, Elisha had one request: He wanted a double portion of the Spirit of God, that was resting upon Elijah. His request was granted and as a result the miracles Elisha did were "over-the-top" and out of the norm. The miracles he performs restore the water for some, the stew for others, and, in the case above, heal a man of leprosy, named Naaman. However, unlike Elisha when he was the servant of Elijah, Gehazi was a man who didn't want more of the Spirit of Elisha, he wanted to "get something" from Naaman. After healing Naaman, Elisha had refused his gifts. Gehazi was not as humble. He follows Naaman, makes up a story in order to have his greed feed. He wants "something.". Gehazi is the perfect picture of today's servant who serves to get an easy life and live off the goodness of God's people. He wants to live a life of ease and comfort; at the hand of those God heals and saves. Elisha discovers this and the leprosy that once was Naaman's falls on Gehazi. Rather than rejoice in the power of God, Gehazi wants to "earn" from that power. The same was true of a man in Acts who saw God work His power through Peter. He didn't want the power of God to see God's will done, he wanted the power of God to earn a living and live in comfort (Acts 8:17-24); Greed in the heart of the servant of God is an awful sin. We must protect ourselves in our service that we don't end up like Gehazi and want to "get something" for our service.
But when Naaman had gone from him a short distance, Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, “See, my master has spared this Naaman the Syrian, in not accepting from his hand what he brought. As the Lord lives, I will run after him and get something from him.”
Subject: Greed and Service
Gehazi was a servant of Elisha. Elisha was a prophet of God, who at one time, was a servant of Elijah. When Elijah went to be with God in a miracle accession, Elisha had one request: He wanted a double portion of the Spirit of God, that was resting upon Elijah. His request was granted and as a result the miracles Elisha did were "over-the-top" and out of the norm. The miracles he performs restore the water for some, the stew for others, and, in the case above, heal a man of leprosy, named Naaman. However, unlike Elisha when he was the servant of Elijah, Gehazi was a man who didn't want more of the Spirit of Elisha, he wanted to "get something" from Naaman. After healing Naaman, Elisha had refused his gifts. Gehazi was not as humble. He follows Naaman, makes up a story in order to have his greed feed. He wants "something.". Gehazi is the perfect picture of today's servant who serves to get an easy life and live off the goodness of God's people. He wants to live a life of ease and comfort; at the hand of those God heals and saves. Elisha discovers this and the leprosy that once was Naaman's falls on Gehazi. Rather than rejoice in the power of God, Gehazi wants to "earn" from that power. The same was true of a man in Acts who saw God work His power through Peter. He didn't want the power of God to see God's will done, he wanted the power of God to earn a living and live in comfort (Acts 8:17-24); Greed in the heart of the servant of God is an awful sin. We must protect ourselves in our service that we don't end up like Gehazi and want to "get something" for our service.
Monday, June 27, 2016
Subject: Sanctification - Leviticaus 10-12
Leviticus 12:6-7 (ESV Strong's)
“And when the days of her purifying are completed, whether for a son or for a daughter, she shall bring to the priest at the entrance of the tent of meeting a lamb a year old for a burnt offering, and a pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering, and he shall offer it before the Lord and make atonement for her. Then she shall be clean from the flow of her blood. This is the law for her who bears a child, either male or female.
Subject: Sanctification
In chapter 12 of Leviticus we have a brief chapter with instructions to the nation of Israel about the purification of a mother, after childbirth. In our day, giving birth to a child is as special as their day, but extremely more safe and with less jeopardy. There were no hospitals in this community. The priest and the midwives were to oversee the birth of a child. Because of the loss of blood during the deliver process this was a very dangerous time for mother and for child. This is not, however, the emphasis in this chapter. The focus here is how to bring the mother back into the spiritual community. The discharge of blood separated her from the communion of the worship service. The offering brought her back. The same sacrifice (a lamb and a pigeon or a turtledove) was required for her restoration into worship, weather she gave birth to a boy or a girl. The sacrifice was not for the child, but for the mother. The emphasis here is her restoration. The cycle of life put her in jeopardy of being out of fellowship and the sacrifice brought her back. The lesson here is that God is concerned about our fellowship with Him, even in the most precious time of life: The birth of a child. God does not want anything to separate us from worship and communion with Him. We all know that a new born child gets all the attention. We hover over him/her and see the beauty of new life. But, God wants to make sure the mother is right back in fellowship with Him, despite the excitement of the birth. Our purification physically is important (to prevent death); our purification spiritual is vital (to prevent spiritual death).
“And when the days of her purifying are completed, whether for a son or for a daughter, she shall bring to the priest at the entrance of the tent of meeting a lamb a year old for a burnt offering, and a pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering, and he shall offer it before the Lord and make atonement for her. Then she shall be clean from the flow of her blood. This is the law for her who bears a child, either male or female.
Subject: Sanctification
In chapter 12 of Leviticus we have a brief chapter with instructions to the nation of Israel about the purification of a mother, after childbirth. In our day, giving birth to a child is as special as their day, but extremely more safe and with less jeopardy. There were no hospitals in this community. The priest and the midwives were to oversee the birth of a child. Because of the loss of blood during the deliver process this was a very dangerous time for mother and for child. This is not, however, the emphasis in this chapter. The focus here is how to bring the mother back into the spiritual community. The discharge of blood separated her from the communion of the worship service. The offering brought her back. The same sacrifice (a lamb and a pigeon or a turtledove) was required for her restoration into worship, weather she gave birth to a boy or a girl. The sacrifice was not for the child, but for the mother. The emphasis here is her restoration. The cycle of life put her in jeopardy of being out of fellowship and the sacrifice brought her back. The lesson here is that God is concerned about our fellowship with Him, even in the most precious time of life: The birth of a child. God does not want anything to separate us from worship and communion with Him. We all know that a new born child gets all the attention. We hover over him/her and see the beauty of new life. But, God wants to make sure the mother is right back in fellowship with Him, despite the excitement of the birth. Our purification physically is important (to prevent death); our purification spiritual is vital (to prevent spiritual death).
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Subject: Sanctification and Service - Philippians 1-2
Philippians 2:13 (ESV Strong's)
for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
Subject: Sanctification and Service
God is in the business of saving His children and perfecting them into holiness. It is all a complete work of God in Christ by the Holy Spirit. Our part is faith in Christ's work. Hence the above passage. The verse goes right along with what Paul started in the introduction of this book:
Philippians 1:6 (ESV Strong's)
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
God began the work and will complete it. It is He who is working inside us to complete it and to fulfill His good pleasure in us. In the above verse it is stated He is working out His good pleasure in us and not us working out our good pleasure. Sanctification is done by God for God. It produces service done by God and for God. We have to take ourselves out of the equation. We are simply the agents of faith. God is doing a "good" wok in us. We can, at times, look at our lives and wonder, "where is the good." Yet, even when He denies us something we think would be "good" for us, He ultimately has something better, that is good for His kingdom and plan. In Psalm 72:18 we read that God alone does "wondrous" things. He is doing that in our lives, even when we don't know it.
for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
Subject: Sanctification and Service
God is in the business of saving His children and perfecting them into holiness. It is all a complete work of God in Christ by the Holy Spirit. Our part is faith in Christ's work. Hence the above passage. The verse goes right along with what Paul started in the introduction of this book:
Philippians 1:6 (ESV Strong's)
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
God began the work and will complete it. It is He who is working inside us to complete it and to fulfill His good pleasure in us. In the above verse it is stated He is working out His good pleasure in us and not us working out our good pleasure. Sanctification is done by God for God. It produces service done by God and for God. We have to take ourselves out of the equation. We are simply the agents of faith. God is doing a "good" wok in us. We can, at times, look at our lives and wonder, "where is the good." Yet, even when He denies us something we think would be "good" for us, He ultimately has something better, that is good for His kingdom and plan. In Psalm 72:18 we read that God alone does "wondrous" things. He is doing that in our lives, even when we don't know it.
Saturday, June 25, 2016
Subject: Service/Stewardship - Luke 15-16
Luke 16:10 (ESV Strong's)
“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.
Subject: Service - Stewardship
We all know who we can trust. We can trust those who, when given a job, resources, and/or tasks, fulfill to their best capability their roles and responsibilities. This is a simple way to judge if they would be able to handle more of the same, or even better of the same. This is true in the spiritual realm, as well. Jesus is telling His disciples that they are going to be entrusted with more, but must, first, obey in the little. The above verse is the best description of promoting others. As a soccer coach for over 20 years, I have found this principle is one of the best principles for giving athletes more playing time. If they are responsible for small things (less minutes, less role) they can be entrusted for bigger things (more minutes, larger role). Jesus establishes a principle for us that can be applied in the Kingdom and in the kingdom.
“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.
Subject: Service - Stewardship
We all know who we can trust. We can trust those who, when given a job, resources, and/or tasks, fulfill to their best capability their roles and responsibilities. This is a simple way to judge if they would be able to handle more of the same, or even better of the same. This is true in the spiritual realm, as well. Jesus is telling His disciples that they are going to be entrusted with more, but must, first, obey in the little. The above verse is the best description of promoting others. As a soccer coach for over 20 years, I have found this principle is one of the best principles for giving athletes more playing time. If they are responsible for small things (less minutes, less role) they can be entrusted for bigger things (more minutes, larger role). Jesus establishes a principle for us that can be applied in the Kingdom and in the kingdom.
Friday, June 24, 2016
Subject: False Teachers - Ezekiel 13-18
Ezekiel 13:19 (ESV Strong's)
You have profaned me among my people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, putting to death souls who should not die and keeping alive souls who should not live, by your lying to my people, who listen to lies.
Subject: False Teachers
God, in this chapter of Ezekiel, is condemning the false teachers who are leading the people astray. Throughout the chapter their falsehood is exposed and their doom predicted. God holds all of us accountable for our lives. However, He also holds accountable those who lead others astray. False teaching has two ills: 1) it provides false hope to people, and 2) it causes them to believe in something or someone other than the risen Christ. When we don't discern these false teachers, we are still responsible. However, God will, as in this chapter, condemn, correct and punish false teachers and false teaching.
You have profaned me among my people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, putting to death souls who should not die and keeping alive souls who should not live, by your lying to my people, who listen to lies.
Subject: False Teachers
God, in this chapter of Ezekiel, is condemning the false teachers who are leading the people astray. Throughout the chapter their falsehood is exposed and their doom predicted. God holds all of us accountable for our lives. However, He also holds accountable those who lead others astray. False teaching has two ills: 1) it provides false hope to people, and 2) it causes them to believe in something or someone other than the risen Christ. When we don't discern these false teachers, we are still responsible. However, God will, as in this chapter, condemn, correct and punish false teachers and false teaching.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Subject: Wisdom - Proverbs 7
Proverbs 7:4 (ESV Strong's)
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”
and call insight your intimate friend,
Subject: Wisdom
In today's society, especially the educational world, wisdom is accumulated and obtained by the amount of degrees you have on the wall. Knowledge, people believe, equals wisdom. Like most false philosophy there is an appearance of truth in such thoughts. However, what we learn from the book of Proverbs, the above verse being a key indicator, is that Wisdom is not simply accumulated knowledge. In the early chapters of Proverbs we were told that the beginning of wisdom was the "fear of the Lord.". In the above proverb we are told that wisdom is to be considered in the context of a relationship. Wisdom is personified in this proverb as a person. We are to be so close to God in fear (reverence) that we are to call wisdom "sister" or "friend.". In 1 Corinthians 1-2 we see that Christ IS wisdom. The thought here is that to have a close relationship with Wisdom we have to have a real relationship with God through Christ. Wisdom is found, not in books, degrees, or graduate courses, it is found in a real relationship with Christ, who is our intimate friend.
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”
and call insight your intimate friend,
Subject: Wisdom
In today's society, especially the educational world, wisdom is accumulated and obtained by the amount of degrees you have on the wall. Knowledge, people believe, equals wisdom. Like most false philosophy there is an appearance of truth in such thoughts. However, what we learn from the book of Proverbs, the above verse being a key indicator, is that Wisdom is not simply accumulated knowledge. In the early chapters of Proverbs we were told that the beginning of wisdom was the "fear of the Lord.". In the above proverb we are told that wisdom is to be considered in the context of a relationship. Wisdom is personified in this proverb as a person. We are to be so close to God in fear (reverence) that we are to call wisdom "sister" or "friend.". In 1 Corinthians 1-2 we see that Christ IS wisdom. The thought here is that to have a close relationship with Wisdom we have to have a real relationship with God through Christ. Wisdom is found, not in books, degrees, or graduate courses, it is found in a real relationship with Christ, who is our intimate friend.
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Subject: God's Guidance and Care
Psalms 77:19 (ESV Strong's)
Your way was through the sea,
your path through the great waters;
yet your footprints were unseen.
Subject: God's Guidance and Care
"... yet your footprints were unseen." When God guides us and provides for us and takes care of us, we seldom are physically aware. God is unseen to us, but He is there. We do not realize that He is caring us through the seas, He is protecting us from evil, He is sheltering us from storms. We do not see Him except through the eyes of faith. He uses human agents (see vs. 20) to lead us, but it is His power and might working through them. By faith we see His hand and His footprints. The writer of this Psalm realized that although the human eye can't see Him, that does not mean He is not there. God's presence is with us through all of life's ups and downs. We can be thankful of this.
Your way was through the sea,
your path through the great waters;
yet your footprints were unseen.
Subject: God's Guidance and Care
"... yet your footprints were unseen." When God guides us and provides for us and takes care of us, we seldom are physically aware. God is unseen to us, but He is there. We do not realize that He is caring us through the seas, He is protecting us from evil, He is sheltering us from storms. We do not see Him except through the eyes of faith. He uses human agents (see vs. 20) to lead us, but it is His power and might working through them. By faith we see His hand and His footprints. The writer of this Psalm realized that although the human eye can't see Him, that does not mean He is not there. God's presence is with us through all of life's ups and downs. We can be thankful of this.
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Subject: God's Provision - 1 Kings 17-22
1 Kings 17:6-7 (ESV Strong's)
And the ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook. And after a while the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land.
Subject: God's provision
Those who work for God should always note that God will provide what He wants us to have. Those who follow God are blessed by God. In the above passage we see that Elijah is sent to a brook that will provide water to drink and ravens will be sent to feed him. In the time of famine, while others are thirsty and hungry, Elijah was well taken care of. This is an act of faith by Elijah. Ravens were a forbidden bird and Israelites were to stay clear of them. Elijah obeys God, however, and allows them to feed him. Those who follow God must do so in faith. Faith means obeying God even when we don't know how and where and when God will provide. But, God does!!! He gives grace when we need it. He gives gifts when He wants us to have them.
And the ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook. And after a while the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land.
Subject: God's provision
Those who work for God should always note that God will provide what He wants us to have. Those who follow God are blessed by God. In the above passage we see that Elijah is sent to a brook that will provide water to drink and ravens will be sent to feed him. In the time of famine, while others are thirsty and hungry, Elijah was well taken care of. This is an act of faith by Elijah. Ravens were a forbidden bird and Israelites were to stay clear of them. Elijah obeys God, however, and allows them to feed him. Those who follow God must do so in faith. Faith means obeying God even when we don't know how and where and when God will provide. But, God does!!! He gives grace when we need it. He gives gifts when He wants us to have them.
Monday, June 20, 2016
Subject: God's Glory - Leviticus 7-9
Leviticus 9:24 (ESV Strong's)
And fire came out from before the Lord and consumed the burnt offering and the pieces of fat on the altar, and when all the people saw it, they shouted and fell on their faces.
Subject: God's Glory
The study of God's Glory is a remarkable study. In the above passage, after Moses had consecrated the Tabernacle and Aaron and his sons as priest, God came down in the form of fire and consumed the offering. When the people saw it they fell on their faces. Isaiah so God's glory and fell on his face. Moses saw God's glory and had to cover his face because when the nation of Israel saw the glory on his face their were afraid. Paul saw God's glory on the road to Damascus and lost his sight. The three disciples saw God's glory on the mount of Transfiguration and fell down to worship. Seeing God's glory is the blessed hope for believers. We will see Him. Note Paul's Words to the Corinthians:
2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV Strong's)
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
And fire came out from before the Lord and consumed the burnt offering and the pieces of fat on the altar, and when all the people saw it, they shouted and fell on their faces.
Subject: God's Glory
The study of God's Glory is a remarkable study. In the above passage, after Moses had consecrated the Tabernacle and Aaron and his sons as priest, God came down in the form of fire and consumed the offering. When the people saw it they fell on their faces. Isaiah so God's glory and fell on his face. Moses saw God's glory and had to cover his face because when the nation of Israel saw the glory on his face their were afraid. Paul saw God's glory on the road to Damascus and lost his sight. The three disciples saw God's glory on the mount of Transfiguration and fell down to worship. Seeing God's glory is the blessed hope for believers. We will see Him. Note Paul's Words to the Corinthians:
2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV Strong's)
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
Sunday, June 19, 2016
Subject: Sanctifiation in Spiritual Battle
Ephesians 6:10-13 (ESV Strong's)
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Subject: Sanctification in Spiritual Battle
The Christian is an a battle. It is not with the government. It is not with a particular segment of our society. We are not to be throwing rocks at sinners. We are in a spiritual battle. In Paul's day there was no more corruption worse than in our day. In fact, modern day Rome may be the supreme example for the USA in regard to what will most assuredly happen if we continue down this road of debauchery. With that said, however, Paul did not tell the believers of the day to fight with picket signs, social media or anger. What Paul tells us, in the above text, is to realize this is a spiritual battle and to fight it we have to use spiritual tools. To fight the foes of this world (Satan and his minions) we must take on spiritual tools and weapons. Our sanctification is to be conducted, not in our might, but in His might and power and therefore with His tools. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith and prayer are all listed in the following verses. We can get so off track with our fight in this life. This is a warning that we are in a fight and how to win in that fight: His power; His tools!!
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Subject: Sanctification in Spiritual Battle
The Christian is an a battle. It is not with the government. It is not with a particular segment of our society. We are not to be throwing rocks at sinners. We are in a spiritual battle. In Paul's day there was no more corruption worse than in our day. In fact, modern day Rome may be the supreme example for the USA in regard to what will most assuredly happen if we continue down this road of debauchery. With that said, however, Paul did not tell the believers of the day to fight with picket signs, social media or anger. What Paul tells us, in the above text, is to realize this is a spiritual battle and to fight it we have to use spiritual tools. To fight the foes of this world (Satan and his minions) we must take on spiritual tools and weapons. Our sanctification is to be conducted, not in our might, but in His might and power and therefore with His tools. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith and prayer are all listed in the following verses. We can get so off track with our fight in this life. This is a warning that we are in a fight and how to win in that fight: His power; His tools!!
Saturday, June 18, 2016
Subject: Discipleship - Luke 13-14
Luke 14:33 (ESV Strong's)
So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.
Subject: Discipleship
The price of discipleship with Christ is one's life! This is what is being taught in the above verse. Jesus told the crowds that were "following" him, that if we don't forsake our family, our own lives, we cannot be His disciple. We, by nature, love ourselves. By nature we want to comfort ourselves and please ourselves. Even in Paul's instruction to husbands about how to love their wives, our nature is revealed. Paul says husbands should love their wives like they love their own bodies, because "no man every hated his own body.". This why discipleship is so tough. In Christ we are hidden and we lose our life to talk on His life. We must deny ourselves and allow Him to live through us.
So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.
Subject: Discipleship
The price of discipleship with Christ is one's life! This is what is being taught in the above verse. Jesus told the crowds that were "following" him, that if we don't forsake our family, our own lives, we cannot be His disciple. We, by nature, love ourselves. By nature we want to comfort ourselves and please ourselves. Even in Paul's instruction to husbands about how to love their wives, our nature is revealed. Paul says husbands should love their wives like they love their own bodies, because "no man every hated his own body.". This why discipleship is so tough. In Christ we are hidden and we lose our life to talk on His life. We must deny ourselves and allow Him to live through us.
Friday, June 17, 2016
Subject: God's Omniscience - Ezekiel 7-12
Ezekiel 9:4-6 (ESV Strong's)
And the Lord said to him, “Pass through the city, through Jerusalem, and put a mark on the foreheads of the men who sigh and groan over all the abominations that are committed in it.” And to the others he said in my hearing, “Pass through the city after him, and strike. Your eye shall not spare, and you shall show no pity. Kill old men outright, young men and maidens, little children and women, but touch no one on whom is the mark. And begin at my sanctuary.” So they began with the elders who were before the house.
Subject: Judgment of God/Knowledge of God
God knows those who hate sin and those who love sin!! It is obvious from the above passage that God is able to distinguish between those who know Him and love Him and those who pretend to know Him and love Him. We stumble at such discovery. We see someone singing to God in worship services and assume they love God. We only discover later they have a dark side of them and are ravished in sin. God, however, is not blinded as we are. He knows exactly who is with Him and who is not. The above passage is similar to what Christ told His disciples while on this earth:
Matthew 7:21-23 (ESV Strong's)
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’
God knows!!!
And the Lord said to him, “Pass through the city, through Jerusalem, and put a mark on the foreheads of the men who sigh and groan over all the abominations that are committed in it.” And to the others he said in my hearing, “Pass through the city after him, and strike. Your eye shall not spare, and you shall show no pity. Kill old men outright, young men and maidens, little children and women, but touch no one on whom is the mark. And begin at my sanctuary.” So they began with the elders who were before the house.
Subject: Judgment of God/Knowledge of God
God knows those who hate sin and those who love sin!! It is obvious from the above passage that God is able to distinguish between those who know Him and love Him and those who pretend to know Him and love Him. We stumble at such discovery. We see someone singing to God in worship services and assume they love God. We only discover later they have a dark side of them and are ravished in sin. God, however, is not blinded as we are. He knows exactly who is with Him and who is not. The above passage is similar to what Christ told His disciples while on this earth:
Matthew 7:21-23 (ESV Strong's)
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’
God knows!!!
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Subject: Sexual Promiscuity - Proverbs 6:26
Proverbs 6:26 (NASBStr)
For on account of a harlot one is reduced to a loaf of bread,
And an adulteress hunts for the precious life.
Subject: Sexual Promiscuity
Solomon, in chapter six, is giving a warning to men about the harlot, a women who is committed to know one; and to the man who does not honor the commitment a woman makes to a man in marriage. He is warning them both that disaster awaits them. In this verse he is talking about the former; the man who leaves the women of his youth, the women he has committed his life to, to pursue a women who is the adulterous. The picture we have here is real, but also is being used figuratively by Solomon. The harlot is the picture of folly as she stands on the corner seducing those who pass by. Solomon warns us that this woman, this harlot, this picture of folly is going to reduce our value to a loaf of bread. If we lust for her and if we follow our desire for her and succumb to her wooing, we will be reduced to a loaf of bread. Today, a loaf of bread is worth about $2.00 to $3.00, depending on the quality. It can be as little as less than a $1.00 and perhaps as much as $5.00 for an exotic loaf. The adulterous does not want the fringe of us, or the left overs of us. The adulterous wants the "precious" parts of our lives. And then she reduces them to the cost of a loaf of bread. The scent, the touch, the beauty is all there to disguise the destruction. Lips stick hides the danger in her words. Perfume covers up the smell of her death. Nice lacy clothes camouflage the coldness of her heart. She is dangerous and will take what little value we have and turn it to crumbs.
For on account of a harlot one is reduced to a loaf of bread,
And an adulteress hunts for the precious life.
Subject: Sexual Promiscuity
Solomon, in chapter six, is giving a warning to men about the harlot, a women who is committed to know one; and to the man who does not honor the commitment a woman makes to a man in marriage. He is warning them both that disaster awaits them. In this verse he is talking about the former; the man who leaves the women of his youth, the women he has committed his life to, to pursue a women who is the adulterous. The picture we have here is real, but also is being used figuratively by Solomon. The harlot is the picture of folly as she stands on the corner seducing those who pass by. Solomon warns us that this woman, this harlot, this picture of folly is going to reduce our value to a loaf of bread. If we lust for her and if we follow our desire for her and succumb to her wooing, we will be reduced to a loaf of bread. Today, a loaf of bread is worth about $2.00 to $3.00, depending on the quality. It can be as little as less than a $1.00 and perhaps as much as $5.00 for an exotic loaf. The adulterous does not want the fringe of us, or the left overs of us. The adulterous wants the "precious" parts of our lives. And then she reduces them to the cost of a loaf of bread. The scent, the touch, the beauty is all there to disguise the destruction. Lips stick hides the danger in her words. Perfume covers up the smell of her death. Nice lacy clothes camouflage the coldness of her heart. She is dangerous and will take what little value we have and turn it to crumbs.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Subject: God's Faithfulness - Psalm 72-74
Psalms 73:23-24 (ESV Strong's)
Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me to glory.
Subject: God's Faithfulness
In Psalm 73 the Choir Master, Asaph is confessing that he has envied the prosperity of the wicked. He has watched their lives go unscathed. They appear to him to be completely "at ease." He is embarrassed by these thoughts and finally comes to his senses when he enters the House of God and remembers the end of the wicked. Yes, in this life they may appear "fat and sleek." But, in the end they have nothing. The righteous, however, are contrasted in the above verse. We may "feel" as though we have nothing in this life. However, we have the presence of God with us and are constantly held in His right hand (the hand Christ sits to rule). We have God's guidance and the promise of always being with Him, for eternity. The wicked by look like they have it all. But, they have nothing. We may look like we have nothing. But, we have it all.
Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me to glory.
Subject: God's Faithfulness
In Psalm 73 the Choir Master, Asaph is confessing that he has envied the prosperity of the wicked. He has watched their lives go unscathed. They appear to him to be completely "at ease." He is embarrassed by these thoughts and finally comes to his senses when he enters the House of God and remembers the end of the wicked. Yes, in this life they may appear "fat and sleek." But, in the end they have nothing. The righteous, however, are contrasted in the above verse. We may "feel" as though we have nothing in this life. However, we have the presence of God with us and are constantly held in His right hand (the hand Christ sits to rule). We have God's guidance and the promise of always being with Him, for eternity. The wicked by look like they have it all. But, they have nothing. We may look like we have nothing. But, we have it all.
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Subject: God's Sovereignity - 1 Kings 14-16
1 Kings 16:33 (ESV Strong's)
And Ahab made an Asherah. Ahab did more to provoke the Lord, the God of Israel, to anger than all the kings of Israel who were before him.
Subject: God's Sovereignty
Why would God allow an ungodly King to reign in Israel, over His chosen people? This is a perplexing issue as we read the book of Kings and Chronicles. God's ruling over the affairs of men through surrogate leaders is always reason to pause and consider. The nation of Israel was wicked and had forsaken their God. Is it surprising that they would inherit a wicked king from God? God uses the wickedness of Kings to accomplish His purpose. Consider what God says about wicked Pharaoh in Romans 9:16-18
Romans 9:16-18 (ESV Strong's)
So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy. For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills.
God hardens the hearts of kings to have them rule over His people and direct His people because of the foolishness of His people. Sometimes when we get bad leaders it is because we deserve bad leaders. Think of our own nation. Is it any surprise about the quality of the leaders we have when we consider what the landscape of the country looks like?
And Ahab made an Asherah. Ahab did more to provoke the Lord, the God of Israel, to anger than all the kings of Israel who were before him.
Subject: God's Sovereignty
Why would God allow an ungodly King to reign in Israel, over His chosen people? This is a perplexing issue as we read the book of Kings and Chronicles. God's ruling over the affairs of men through surrogate leaders is always reason to pause and consider. The nation of Israel was wicked and had forsaken their God. Is it surprising that they would inherit a wicked king from God? God uses the wickedness of Kings to accomplish His purpose. Consider what God says about wicked Pharaoh in Romans 9:16-18
Romans 9:16-18 (ESV Strong's)
So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy. For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills.
God hardens the hearts of kings to have them rule over His people and direct His people because of the foolishness of His people. Sometimes when we get bad leaders it is because we deserve bad leaders. Think of our own nation. Is it any surprise about the quality of the leaders we have when we consider what the landscape of the country looks like?
Monday, June 13, 2016
Subject: Fellowship with God - Leviticus 4-6
Leviticus 6:12-13 (ESV Strong's)
The fire on the altar shall be kept burning on it; it shall not go out. The priest shall burn wood on it every morning, and he shall arrange the burnt offering on it and shall burn on it the fat of the peace offerings. Fire shall be kept burning on the altar continually; it shall not go out.
Subject: Fellowship with God
Leviticus is a book written for the priest of the Israel on how to administrate the Law. There are many instructions that are no longer needed since Christ became the one-time sacrifice for all (see Hebrews). However, the symbolism represented in the book with each instruction speaks to a New Testament principle or act of obedience. Note what the writer of Hebrews says about these things:
Hebrews 8:5 (ESV Strong's)
They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, “See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.”
The "patterns" we're to show us how to have fellowship with God. So, in the above text we see that the priest were to make sure that the flames on the alter were constantly burning. This is, of course a practical matter so that when sacrifice was made the fire was hot and ready to offer the sacrifice. However, it also shows that the priest had to be constantly maintaining fire. The fire was a picture of God's presence and the priest constant fellowship with God. In the NT, as believer priest, we are responsible to "keep the fire going" of our faith. Each morning we to stir the cold ashes and to gather fresh wood to keep the fire going. This is one reason we read God's Word each day. God's Word kindles our faith. We are personally responsible to kindle our faith by the constant fellowship with God. The Spirit of God gives us the ability to do this as we yield in faith. Like the priest of old we are to keep the fire going.
The fire on the altar shall be kept burning on it; it shall not go out. The priest shall burn wood on it every morning, and he shall arrange the burnt offering on it and shall burn on it the fat of the peace offerings. Fire shall be kept burning on the altar continually; it shall not go out.
Subject: Fellowship with God
Leviticus is a book written for the priest of the Israel on how to administrate the Law. There are many instructions that are no longer needed since Christ became the one-time sacrifice for all (see Hebrews). However, the symbolism represented in the book with each instruction speaks to a New Testament principle or act of obedience. Note what the writer of Hebrews says about these things:
Hebrews 8:5 (ESV Strong's)
They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, “See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.”
The "patterns" we're to show us how to have fellowship with God. So, in the above text we see that the priest were to make sure that the flames on the alter were constantly burning. This is, of course a practical matter so that when sacrifice was made the fire was hot and ready to offer the sacrifice. However, it also shows that the priest had to be constantly maintaining fire. The fire was a picture of God's presence and the priest constant fellowship with God. In the NT, as believer priest, we are responsible to "keep the fire going" of our faith. Each morning we to stir the cold ashes and to gather fresh wood to keep the fire going. This is one reason we read God's Word each day. God's Word kindles our faith. We are personally responsible to kindle our faith by the constant fellowship with God. The Spirit of God gives us the ability to do this as we yield in faith. Like the priest of old we are to keep the fire going.
Sunday, June 12, 2016
Subject: God's Blessing/Grace/Love in Salvation
Ephesians 1:4-8 (ESV Strong's)
even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight
Subject: God's Blessings/Grace/Love
Our salvation is based upon the amazing and incompressible love and grace of God. He has, in salvation, bestowed upon us the riches of glory. In the above passage it is said to be "in love; of his glorious grace; according to the riches of his grace." It is said that He "blessed us" in the Beloved. There are those who, in their pride, can't believe that Salvation could be a free gift. Countless religious systems have incorporated man's works and man's contribution to the salvation process. Yet, this passage teaches us that God is the sole provider of salvation. We have salvation based upon HIS blessings; grace; and Love!!
even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight
Subject: God's Blessings/Grace/Love
Our salvation is based upon the amazing and incompressible love and grace of God. He has, in salvation, bestowed upon us the riches of glory. In the above passage it is said to be "in love; of his glorious grace; according to the riches of his grace." It is said that He "blessed us" in the Beloved. There are those who, in their pride, can't believe that Salvation could be a free gift. Countless religious systems have incorporated man's works and man's contribution to the salvation process. Yet, this passage teaches us that God is the sole provider of salvation. We have salvation based upon HIS blessings; grace; and Love!!
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Subject: Worry - Luke 11-12
Luke 12:31-34 (ESV Strong's)
Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Subject: Worry
In order to understand the "these things" in the above passage, we have to read the preceding verses. Jesus has been talking about those who are "anxious" in life about where their next meal is coming from and will they have clothes. Since we live in the society we live in today, we can hardly relate to these "worries." We have plenty to eat and our worries consist if we can get through the Starbucks drive up in time and not be late for work. We have plenty of clothes. Our biggest worry is if someone sees us where the same combination of top and bottom of our outfit for the day. Although we can't relate to the context of the day in specifics, we can understand the concept of being "anxious" over temporal things. Jesus has a solution to stop us from such anxiety. Jesus tells us to seek first His Kingdom. His principle is the last verse: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." When we have our heart set on the Kingdom and on what our relationship with the Heavenly Father can be, we will care less about the cares of this world, no matter what generation we live in. We worry because our heart is connected with something and the anxiety increases the more we want something for that something. When our heart is set upon trusting Christ and His plan for us, we have nothing on this side of heaven to weigh us down.
Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Subject: Worry
In order to understand the "these things" in the above passage, we have to read the preceding verses. Jesus has been talking about those who are "anxious" in life about where their next meal is coming from and will they have clothes. Since we live in the society we live in today, we can hardly relate to these "worries." We have plenty to eat and our worries consist if we can get through the Starbucks drive up in time and not be late for work. We have plenty of clothes. Our biggest worry is if someone sees us where the same combination of top and bottom of our outfit for the day. Although we can't relate to the context of the day in specifics, we can understand the concept of being "anxious" over temporal things. Jesus has a solution to stop us from such anxiety. Jesus tells us to seek first His Kingdom. His principle is the last verse: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." When we have our heart set on the Kingdom and on what our relationship with the Heavenly Father can be, we will care less about the cares of this world, no matter what generation we live in. We worry because our heart is connected with something and the anxiety increases the more we want something for that something. When our heart is set upon trusting Christ and His plan for us, we have nothing on this side of heaven to weigh us down.
Friday, June 10, 2016
Subject: God's Work for Believers
Ezekiel 3:16-17 (ESV Strong's)
And at the end of seven days, the word of the Lord came to me: “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me.
Subject: God's Work for Believers
Ezekiel is a prophet with a tough job. He is a priest and prophet called to give a harsh message to the rebellious people of God. He has already been told in the early chap;tears of this book that the people will not listen to him. Even though he will use interactive styles of speech, well advanced to our modern day TedTalks, Ezekiel's message will be rejected. He was told that in advance. That very thought would cause most people pause and perhaps de-motivate them to speak. In the above passage, however, Ezekiel is warned about what his real job is all about. He is to be a watchmen to warn the people. This warning is from God. He is not to worry about their response. He is responsible for his response. This section will go on to warn him that if he shouts a warning and they listen, all is good. But, he is also warned that if he doesn't shout a warning, those who sin will pay for them sin, but God will require it at his hand and his blood. The message here for us is simple, we are to deliver the message of God and not worry about the response of others. We are simply held responsible for the delivery of the message.
And at the end of seven days, the word of the Lord came to me: “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me.
Subject: God's Work for Believers
Ezekiel is a prophet with a tough job. He is a priest and prophet called to give a harsh message to the rebellious people of God. He has already been told in the early chap;tears of this book that the people will not listen to him. Even though he will use interactive styles of speech, well advanced to our modern day TedTalks, Ezekiel's message will be rejected. He was told that in advance. That very thought would cause most people pause and perhaps de-motivate them to speak. In the above passage, however, Ezekiel is warned about what his real job is all about. He is to be a watchmen to warn the people. This warning is from God. He is not to worry about their response. He is responsible for his response. This section will go on to warn him that if he shouts a warning and they listen, all is good. But, he is also warned that if he doesn't shout a warning, those who sin will pay for them sin, but God will require it at his hand and his blood. The message here for us is simple, we are to deliver the message of God and not worry about the response of others. We are simply held responsible for the delivery of the message.
Thursday, June 9, 2016
Subject: God's Word - Proverbs 4
Proverbs 4:1-2 (ESV Strong's)
Hear, O sons, a father's instruction,
and be attentive, that you may gain insight,
for I give you good precepts;
do not forsake my teaching.
Subject: God's Word
There is much debate about wisdom literature and how to interpret the things written. In Proverbs, specifically, we will hear many theologians and pastors tell us that the "proverbs" are observations of life and not to be taken as promises. However, the words used in these first two verses of chapter four seem to give us a rich understanding of what the author meant when he wrote them. "Instruction; precepts; teaching" are all words that are used in other parts of Scripture to convey something much more than "observations of life.". When Solomon adds: "That you may gain insight," he is making a connection with these words and giving us a promise. He is telling us that when we are: "hearing; attentive; and not forsaking" the instruction we will have a benefit. If we read Psalm 119 (also wisdom literature) we can be assured that the promises of meditating on and obeying God's Word will produce benefit in our lives. So, too the Proverbs. It should be obvious that some of the proverbs are promises; some are precepts and some our principles to follow. But, all are authoritative and beyond the thought of simple "observations" of life. The Chinese philosopher Confucius was a later contemporary of Solomon. He had observations in life. He did not have the authority of God's Word. Solomon did observe life and God gave him truth to give to us by way of Proverbs. Many of these proverbs, like the one above, give us a promise we can be assured of. If we hear and are attentive (listening and obeying) the instruction given to us here, we can gain insight. That is a promise!!
Hear, O sons, a father's instruction,
and be attentive, that you may gain insight,
for I give you good precepts;
do not forsake my teaching.
Subject: God's Word
There is much debate about wisdom literature and how to interpret the things written. In Proverbs, specifically, we will hear many theologians and pastors tell us that the "proverbs" are observations of life and not to be taken as promises. However, the words used in these first two verses of chapter four seem to give us a rich understanding of what the author meant when he wrote them. "Instruction; precepts; teaching" are all words that are used in other parts of Scripture to convey something much more than "observations of life.". When Solomon adds: "That you may gain insight," he is making a connection with these words and giving us a promise. He is telling us that when we are: "hearing; attentive; and not forsaking" the instruction we will have a benefit. If we read Psalm 119 (also wisdom literature) we can be assured that the promises of meditating on and obeying God's Word will produce benefit in our lives. So, too the Proverbs. It should be obvious that some of the proverbs are promises; some are precepts and some our principles to follow. But, all are authoritative and beyond the thought of simple "observations" of life. The Chinese philosopher Confucius was a later contemporary of Solomon. He had observations in life. He did not have the authority of God's Word. Solomon did observe life and God gave him truth to give to us by way of Proverbs. Many of these proverbs, like the one above, give us a promise we can be assured of. If we hear and are attentive (listening and obeying) the instruction given to us here, we can gain insight. That is a promise!!
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Subject: Worship and Humilty - Psalm 69-71
Psalms 69:30-33 (ESV Strong's)
I will praise the name of God with a song;
I will magnify him with thanksgiving.
This will please the Lord more than an ox
or a bull with horns and hoofs.
When the humble see it they will be glad;
you who seek God, let your hearts revive.
For the Lord hears the needy
and does not despise his own people who are prisoners.
Subject: Humility and Worship
These verses stress an often read theme in Psalm and God's Word: Humility exalts and pride brings one low. Those who think following God in "form worship" will attract God's favor are mistaken. God favors the humble. Those who have a spirit of thanksgiving are bless above and beyond those bring "ox or a bull with horns and hoofs" (this reference not only speaks of a sacrifice but an "abundant" sacrifice). God favors the humble. He hears the "needy.". Humility is the key to worship, not the pride in man's heart based upon the way he worships.
I will praise the name of God with a song;
I will magnify him with thanksgiving.
This will please the Lord more than an ox
or a bull with horns and hoofs.
When the humble see it they will be glad;
you who seek God, let your hearts revive.
For the Lord hears the needy
and does not despise his own people who are prisoners.
Subject: Humility and Worship
These verses stress an often read theme in Psalm and God's Word: Humility exalts and pride brings one low. Those who think following God in "form worship" will attract God's favor are mistaken. God favors the humble. Those who have a spirit of thanksgiving are bless above and beyond those bring "ox or a bull with horns and hoofs" (this reference not only speaks of a sacrifice but an "abundant" sacrifice). God favors the humble. He hears the "needy.". Humility is the key to worship, not the pride in man's heart based upon the way he worships.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Subject: God's Wisdom - 1 Kings 10-13
1 Kings 10:23-24 (ESV Strong's)
Thus King Solomon excelled all the kings of the earth in riches and in wisdom. And the whole earth sought the presence of Solomon to hear his wisdom, which God had put into his mind.
Subject: God's Wisdom
James, the Apostle, tells us something very important about wisdom, we struggle to believe and put into practice in our daily lives:
James 1:5-8 (ESV Strong's)
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
Solomon is God's example of this for our living. Solomon saw the awesome responsibility in front of him and asked God for wisdom. The Queen of Sheba was only one example of those seeking Solomon's advice and answers to questions. When we walk with God and ask in faith we can have the same wisdom God gave to Solomon. Here, the Old and New Testament walk in harmony. The only difference is that Christ is the Wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1-2) and we have Christ dwelling in us through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. So, our tapping into wisdom is not so much getting something special from God, but yielding to the Lordship of Christ and have Him reveal wisdom to us. By faith we yield to the wisdom found in Christ.
Thus King Solomon excelled all the kings of the earth in riches and in wisdom. And the whole earth sought the presence of Solomon to hear his wisdom, which God had put into his mind.
Subject: God's Wisdom
James, the Apostle, tells us something very important about wisdom, we struggle to believe and put into practice in our daily lives:
James 1:5-8 (ESV Strong's)
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
Solomon is God's example of this for our living. Solomon saw the awesome responsibility in front of him and asked God for wisdom. The Queen of Sheba was only one example of those seeking Solomon's advice and answers to questions. When we walk with God and ask in faith we can have the same wisdom God gave to Solomon. Here, the Old and New Testament walk in harmony. The only difference is that Christ is the Wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1-2) and we have Christ dwelling in us through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. So, our tapping into wisdom is not so much getting something special from God, but yielding to the Lordship of Christ and have Him reveal wisdom to us. By faith we yield to the wisdom found in Christ.
Monday, June 6, 2016
Subject: Pleasing the Lord - Leviticus 1-3
Leviticus 1:13 (ESV Strong's)
but the entrails and the legs he shall wash with water. And the priest shall offer all of it and burn it on the altar; it is a burnt offering, a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the Lord.
Subject: Pleasing the Lord
We all wish to please; mostly other people ... even those who say they don't have a desire to please others have an inward desire to please themselves. We have an innate inward bent to please. God has placed it there. When we bend to the peer pressure of the world, that is a desire to please them. This is why marketing works. When a "marketing fade" is created we jump on board so we are accepted by others in that same group dressed alike; eating alike; doing the exact same activity. We love to please. In the above passage we are told that the proper sacrifice to the Lord is a "pleasing aroma." In fact, this same phase is used 17 times in Leviticus about our sacrifice to the Lord. We can't offer a "pleasing" sacrifice to the Lord in our sinful condition. It is only have we have Christ offer for us that Romans can be true:
Romans 12:1-2 (ESV Strong's)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
We are to offer a "pleasing" sacrifice to God. This is only done when we are in Christ, who was fully accepted and pleasing to God:
2 Peter 1:17 (ESV Strong's)
For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,”
but the entrails and the legs he shall wash with water. And the priest shall offer all of it and burn it on the altar; it is a burnt offering, a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the Lord.
Subject: Pleasing the Lord
We all wish to please; mostly other people ... even those who say they don't have a desire to please others have an inward desire to please themselves. We have an innate inward bent to please. God has placed it there. When we bend to the peer pressure of the world, that is a desire to please them. This is why marketing works. When a "marketing fade" is created we jump on board so we are accepted by others in that same group dressed alike; eating alike; doing the exact same activity. We love to please. In the above passage we are told that the proper sacrifice to the Lord is a "pleasing aroma." In fact, this same phase is used 17 times in Leviticus about our sacrifice to the Lord. We can't offer a "pleasing" sacrifice to the Lord in our sinful condition. It is only have we have Christ offer for us that Romans can be true:
Romans 12:1-2 (ESV Strong's)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
We are to offer a "pleasing" sacrifice to God. This is only done when we are in Christ, who was fully accepted and pleasing to God:
2 Peter 1:17 (ESV Strong's)
For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,”
Sunday, June 5, 2016
Subject: Confronting the Failings of Others - Galatians 4-6
Galatians 6:1-5 (ESV Strong's)
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load.
Subject: Confronting the Failings of Others
Perhaps the hardest thing a believer can do is correct another believer who is involved in an act of sin. In the above passage Paul gives us the steps and outlines the attitudes for us if such a need arises. Paul himself, earlier in this book, had to confront Peter. Peter was submitting to the leaders who thought believers should still follow the rules of The Law. Note what Paul says:
Galatians 2:11-12
But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party.
Paul instructs us to be humble in our confronting others who are involved in sin. We are to have a "spirit of gentleness." But, in our confrontation we are also supposed to "watch" ourselves. Paul knew how hard it was to keep a humble spirit and not get "high and mighty" when correcting someone else. He was worried in our working with others we would fall into sin. We are to "test" our own work. The minute we start looking at others we take our eyes off our own lives. Paul wanted to make sure that in our helping others we didn't fall into a greater sin.
As a further example of this principle, see Joshua 22
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load.
Subject: Confronting the Failings of Others
Perhaps the hardest thing a believer can do is correct another believer who is involved in an act of sin. In the above passage Paul gives us the steps and outlines the attitudes for us if such a need arises. Paul himself, earlier in this book, had to confront Peter. Peter was submitting to the leaders who thought believers should still follow the rules of The Law. Note what Paul says:
Galatians 2:11-12
But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party.
Paul instructs us to be humble in our confronting others who are involved in sin. We are to have a "spirit of gentleness." But, in our confrontation we are also supposed to "watch" ourselves. Paul knew how hard it was to keep a humble spirit and not get "high and mighty" when correcting someone else. He was worried in our working with others we would fall into sin. We are to "test" our own work. The minute we start looking at others we take our eyes off our own lives. Paul wanted to make sure that in our helping others we didn't fall into a greater sin.
As a further example of this principle, see Joshua 22
Saturday, June 4, 2016
Subject: God's Glory - Luke 9-10
Luke 9:32 (ESV Strong's)
Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him.
Subject; God's Glory
Peter, James and John were able to see God's Glory!!! This is what the Gospel is really all about. A couple of verses prior Jesus had said to the disciples: "But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God." Jesus was telling these three disciples that they would soon see what they saw eight days later: God's Glory, which is manifested in Christ and the power of the Gospel, is the "kingdom of God.". Later, in this same chapter Christ performs a miracle and heals a young boy. Note what the people did after seeing Christ's work:
Luke 9:42 (ESV Strong's)
While he was coming, the demon threw him to the ground and convulsed him. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit and healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. And all were astonished at the majesty of God.
2 Peter 1:17 (ESV Strong's)
For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,”
Note the word "majesty" is used in both places to describe the work of God. The Glory of God is the work of Christ in the lives of men. That is the Glory of God.
Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him.
Subject; God's Glory
Peter, James and John were able to see God's Glory!!! This is what the Gospel is really all about. A couple of verses prior Jesus had said to the disciples: "But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God." Jesus was telling these three disciples that they would soon see what they saw eight days later: God's Glory, which is manifested in Christ and the power of the Gospel, is the "kingdom of God.". Later, in this same chapter Christ performs a miracle and heals a young boy. Note what the people did after seeing Christ's work:
Luke 9:42 (ESV Strong's)
While he was coming, the demon threw him to the ground and convulsed him. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit and healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. And all were astonished at the majesty of God.
2 Peter 1:17 (ESV Strong's)
For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,”
Note the word "majesty" is used in both places to describe the work of God. The Glory of God is the work of Christ in the lives of men. That is the Glory of God.
Friday, June 3, 2016
Subject: God's Sovereignty - Lamentations
Lamentations 5:19 (ESV Strong's)
But you, O Lord, reign forever;
your throne endures to all generations.
Subject: God's sovereignty
Lamentations is a book describing Jeremiah's pain and suffering and weeping over the fall of Jerusalem. He is bemoaning the taking captive of the people of Judah into slavery, captivity, death and peril. There is much pain describe in the book. Yet, at the end, the above verse is Jeremiah's conclusion. Through the tears in his eyes, Jeremiah can still see the power and the majesty of God. This is what faith is all about. Faith has to see God when all the circumstances says He is not there. When Jeremiah looked at the city the walls were torn down and the Temple destroyed. When he looked at the people there was death, dying and shackles. There was nothing to see with the natural eye that God was even real, much less cared for this nation as the apple of His eye. Yet, that is the natural eye. The spiritual eye sees God in the midst of all this suffering and conditions. Faith sees God despite the scene in front of us. We might see cancer with the natural eye, but with the eyes of faith we can still see a God who is working behind the scenes. We might see a car accident and death, like the natural world around us. But, the eyes of Faith sees God doing a work and rejoices in that work. God reigns!! That is the truth we hold when the world around is not making sense.
But you, O Lord, reign forever;
your throne endures to all generations.
Subject: God's sovereignty
Lamentations is a book describing Jeremiah's pain and suffering and weeping over the fall of Jerusalem. He is bemoaning the taking captive of the people of Judah into slavery, captivity, death and peril. There is much pain describe in the book. Yet, at the end, the above verse is Jeremiah's conclusion. Through the tears in his eyes, Jeremiah can still see the power and the majesty of God. This is what faith is all about. Faith has to see God when all the circumstances says He is not there. When Jeremiah looked at the city the walls were torn down and the Temple destroyed. When he looked at the people there was death, dying and shackles. There was nothing to see with the natural eye that God was even real, much less cared for this nation as the apple of His eye. Yet, that is the natural eye. The spiritual eye sees God in the midst of all this suffering and conditions. Faith sees God despite the scene in front of us. We might see cancer with the natural eye, but with the eyes of faith we can still see a God who is working behind the scenes. We might see a car accident and death, like the natural world around us. But, the eyes of Faith sees God doing a work and rejoices in that work. God reigns!! That is the truth we hold when the world around is not making sense.
Thursday, June 2, 2016
Subject: Saftey and Security - Proverbs 2-3
Proverbs 3:21-26 (ESV Strong's)
My son, do not lose sight of these—
keep sound wisdom and discretion,
and they will be life for your soul
and adornment for your neck.
Then you will walk on your way securely,
and your foot will not stumble.
If you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
Do not be afraid of sudden terror
or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes,
for the Lord will be your confidence
and will keep your foot from being caught.
Subject: Safety and Security
The above set of proverbs are told to the "son" about the benefits of holding onto, seeking and keeping wisdom. The theme of the book of Proverbs is summed up in these six proverbs. If the son will "keep" wisdom benefits will flow. The word "keep" is used ten times in Psalm 119 in regard to guarding the Word of God. The point here is that we are to make sure we don't lose sight of God's Word because the benefits are amazing. Security is the main benefit. While the wicked are plotting against us and the terrors of night attempt to overtake us, (the writer does not tell us what these terrors are, only that they are sudden), we will be secure in the arms of the Lord. Our confidence is not in our own strength, resources, or talent base. Our confidence is in the Lord, who supplies the wisdom we need to make decisions, which in turn would steer us clear of danger. Faith in God's Word to supply us wisdom provides safety and security when all others are fearful of terror and turmoil.
My son, do not lose sight of these—
keep sound wisdom and discretion,
and they will be life for your soul
and adornment for your neck.
Then you will walk on your way securely,
and your foot will not stumble.
If you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
Do not be afraid of sudden terror
or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes,
for the Lord will be your confidence
and will keep your foot from being caught.
Subject: Safety and Security
The above set of proverbs are told to the "son" about the benefits of holding onto, seeking and keeping wisdom. The theme of the book of Proverbs is summed up in these six proverbs. If the son will "keep" wisdom benefits will flow. The word "keep" is used ten times in Psalm 119 in regard to guarding the Word of God. The point here is that we are to make sure we don't lose sight of God's Word because the benefits are amazing. Security is the main benefit. While the wicked are plotting against us and the terrors of night attempt to overtake us, (the writer does not tell us what these terrors are, only that they are sudden), we will be secure in the arms of the Lord. Our confidence is not in our own strength, resources, or talent base. Our confidence is in the Lord, who supplies the wisdom we need to make decisions, which in turn would steer us clear of danger. Faith in God's Word to supply us wisdom provides safety and security when all others are fearful of terror and turmoil.
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Subject: Power - Psalm 66-68
Psalms 68:34 (ESV Strong's)
Ascribe power to God,
whose majesty is over Israel,
and whose power is in the skies.
Subject: Worship
The Hebrew word in the above passage for the word translated "ascribe" is the word "Natan.". Natan has several meanings in Scripture, but note what Vine says about here:
(Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary) Natan can be used of “giving” or “ascribing” something to someone, such as “giving” glory and praise to God (Josh. 7:19). Obviously, nothing is passed from men to God; nothing is added to God, since He is perfect. This means, therefore, that a worshiper recognizes and confesses what is already His.
The writer of the Psalm is instructing us in worship. Specifically David, the writer, is telling us to rejoice in what God is going to do to protect us from our enemies. As he reaches the end of his song he wants to make sure we are recognizing that power flows from God. We are to ascribe this power to God. This is a form of worship. When we talk about worshipping God this is one of the areas we can worship. We must agree and recognize that God is the supreme holder of all power. We give Him glory for this power when we worship Him for His power.
Ascribe power to God,
whose majesty is over Israel,
and whose power is in the skies.
Subject: Worship
The Hebrew word in the above passage for the word translated "ascribe" is the word "Natan.". Natan has several meanings in Scripture, but note what Vine says about here:
(Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary) Natan can be used of “giving” or “ascribing” something to someone, such as “giving” glory and praise to God (Josh. 7:19). Obviously, nothing is passed from men to God; nothing is added to God, since He is perfect. This means, therefore, that a worshiper recognizes and confesses what is already His.
The writer of the Psalm is instructing us in worship. Specifically David, the writer, is telling us to rejoice in what God is going to do to protect us from our enemies. As he reaches the end of his song he wants to make sure we are recognizing that power flows from God. We are to ascribe this power to God. This is a form of worship. When we talk about worshipping God this is one of the areas we can worship. We must agree and recognize that God is the supreme holder of all power. We give Him glory for this power when we worship Him for His power.
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