The ritual of fasting is not so popular in today's Christian circles. Some do practice it but mostly we only hear of other religions doing it. There are different types of fasts; 1. Eating or drinking anything is forbidden, 2. Eating is forbidden but water is ok, 3. No food during sunlight and light colored broths are permitted and many more variations.
But why fast? Why would it be good to give up something that the body needs?
Some people do this in a variation to lose weight. Some do it to "detoxify". Some do it involuntary because of poverty. Is there any benefit to it?
Sure, some doctors will attest that while fasting your body resets itself in digestion, chemicals, and other hormones some people should not attempt it; diabetics, people with eating disorders, young children. Those that do it for religious purposes do it not for any of these purposes.
Jesus was continuing the underlying theme that "we should be dependent on God for our needs." Fasting removes our need for food and replaces it with an extreme need for God. The longer the fast the longer the need. Remember Jesus fasted for forty days and nights in the desert. If you have ever fasted for any length of time you would know that the hardest part is the beginning. Your body is going into starvation mode and signals your brain to eat. Studies have shown that after about three days of no food (water is ok) your body response is self preservation. Which means that the hunger pangs go away. However, your appearance will show signs of starvation. Think of those commercials you may have seen that shows starving children in a foreign country. Jesus instead instructs us that we, WHEN we fast, should clean ourselves up and not let anyone know we are fasting. we are not to follow the example of the Hypocrites (Pharisees) by letting our faces frown and carrying on about how hungry we are. No! Jesus instructs us to hide the fact that we are fasting. The motivation behind the hypocrites was to show that they were BEING RELIGIOUS. That is their reward. But when we fast for the right motivation then we will be rewarded by the One who sees it.
Notice that the passage says WHEN we fast and not IF we fast. Although it is not a command it is one of those expected duties we have that is designed to realign our minds to God's. The point of this whole lesson is that we MUST examine our motivation of our action toward God. Are they to be seen by man? Or are they to be seen by God?
Exercise for today:
The meaning behind the fast is to deny something that we depend on so our focus realigns with God. Some have said that we can fast not by giving up food but rather something that is a possible hindrance to our NEED for absolute dependence. Don't confuse this to the concept of Lent! That is another discussion for another time.
Prayerfully consider a fast. Look up verses that have to do with fasting. Here are a few to get you started.
Acts 14:23, Matthew 9:14–15, Mark 2:18–20, Luke 5:33–39, Mark 9:29
Friday, August 31, 2012
Thursday, August 30, 2012
What NOT to do When Praying
One of the biggest misconceptions in the Christian faith is in the matter of prayer. Most people would argue that prayer is meant to benefit the one praying and those around. This is known as "Corporate Prayer". While this is not a bad thing, the direction and motivation of it is. Yesterday we looked at HOW NOT TO PRAY, today we are looking at HOW TO PRAY. Jesus gives us a MODEL for prayer. Notice I said MODEL. It was never meant to be recited as an actual prayer. The use of the words "pray like this" mean that He is using an example. So we are to PRAY by;
1. Direct your prayer to the one you are praying to.
Muslims will bow and face east (depending where they are) toward Mecca. This is to direct the prayer toward the Qibla and is one of the 5 pillars of Islam. Luckily, we as Christians do not do this however, we are to align ourselves to God when we pray. Yesterday we learned that we are not to pray so that men will praise us for it. Directing our prayer toward the Creator of the universe rids our attention of worldly attention.
Not only are we to direct our prayer but we are also to;
2. Pray for a present blessing toward a future consummation of God's rule
We are to pray for direction in our lives to align with God's will because just as His will is being carried out in heaven so it is on earth. It is going to happen whether we are in His will or out of it. We constantly need guidance to align or re-align our will with God's.
3. Pray that God will provide our daily need.
Bread was a necessary item in the diet. Although Jesus said that we "should not live by bread alone," it contained some of the nutrients that our bodies need for proper functioning. Also, bread back then would go bad and mold because there were no preservatives in it. So one would need to bake fresh bread everyday or at least every few days. Jesus says that we are to ask for our daily need (bread) to show that we are solely dependent on Him for His provision. We never would want to be in a place where we no longer need His provision.
4. Pray for the forgiveness of our sins just as we forgive sins toward us.
This is the only line that contains a prerequisite. Jesus says that we should pray that our sins are forgiven LIKE we forgive others. The word "debts" here is used in the sense of sins against another. The intent is that we are reminded that our sins place us in "debt" to God. Also, Jesus is not saying that we "earn" forgiveness by forgiving. But a person "evidences" his forgiveness by forgiving others.
5. Pray that we are protected against the evil one.
If we have prayed that our sins are forgiven then we are "cured" of our sin debt to God. In order to prevent further sins against God then we must ask for protection. As long as we are here on earth we can expect to be tempted. God will never "lead us into temptation" but He most certainly will "deliver us" as He has promised.
6. End with another directive expression.
Usually prayers are ended with "In Jesus name, Amen!" But we do not see this in the Lord's Prayer. Instead we see an assignment of glory, honor, and worthy praise toward God. We do see in Scripture that we pray in the name of Jesus but we are not to literally do it. It is better to say that we can pray BECAUSE of Jesus and what He did. (This could be another subject for another time) The example we see here from Jesus is that we end the prayer by acknowledging God and that He alone is worthy of all of our praise and honor and glory FOREVER! Amen!
After saying of of the above do we refrain from Reciting the Lord's Prayer? Not at all! It is scripture and we know that "ALL Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Exercise for today? Pray a prayer using the example from Jesus. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in this and help you with the words to say. Sometimes it is helpful to read scripture to help get you started. Remember that we communicate to God by two avenues. 1. Reading Scripture is God talking to us and 2. Prayer is us talking to God.
1. Direct your prayer to the one you are praying to.
Muslims will bow and face east (depending where they are) toward Mecca. This is to direct the prayer toward the Qibla and is one of the 5 pillars of Islam. Luckily, we as Christians do not do this however, we are to align ourselves to God when we pray. Yesterday we learned that we are not to pray so that men will praise us for it. Directing our prayer toward the Creator of the universe rids our attention of worldly attention.
Not only are we to direct our prayer but we are also to;
2. Pray for a present blessing toward a future consummation of God's rule
We are to pray for direction in our lives to align with God's will because just as His will is being carried out in heaven so it is on earth. It is going to happen whether we are in His will or out of it. We constantly need guidance to align or re-align our will with God's.
3. Pray that God will provide our daily need.
Bread was a necessary item in the diet. Although Jesus said that we "should not live by bread alone," it contained some of the nutrients that our bodies need for proper functioning. Also, bread back then would go bad and mold because there were no preservatives in it. So one would need to bake fresh bread everyday or at least every few days. Jesus says that we are to ask for our daily need (bread) to show that we are solely dependent on Him for His provision. We never would want to be in a place where we no longer need His provision.
4. Pray for the forgiveness of our sins just as we forgive sins toward us.
This is the only line that contains a prerequisite. Jesus says that we should pray that our sins are forgiven LIKE we forgive others. The word "debts" here is used in the sense of sins against another. The intent is that we are reminded that our sins place us in "debt" to God. Also, Jesus is not saying that we "earn" forgiveness by forgiving. But a person "evidences" his forgiveness by forgiving others.
5. Pray that we are protected against the evil one.
If we have prayed that our sins are forgiven then we are "cured" of our sin debt to God. In order to prevent further sins against God then we must ask for protection. As long as we are here on earth we can expect to be tempted. God will never "lead us into temptation" but He most certainly will "deliver us" as He has promised.
6. End with another directive expression.
Usually prayers are ended with "In Jesus name, Amen!" But we do not see this in the Lord's Prayer. Instead we see an assignment of glory, honor, and worthy praise toward God. We do see in Scripture that we pray in the name of Jesus but we are not to literally do it. It is better to say that we can pray BECAUSE of Jesus and what He did. (This could be another subject for another time) The example we see here from Jesus is that we end the prayer by acknowledging God and that He alone is worthy of all of our praise and honor and glory FOREVER! Amen!
After saying of of the above do we refrain from Reciting the Lord's Prayer? Not at all! It is scripture and we know that "ALL Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Exercise for today? Pray a prayer using the example from Jesus. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in this and help you with the words to say. Sometimes it is helpful to read scripture to help get you started. Remember that we communicate to God by two avenues. 1. Reading Scripture is God talking to us and 2. Prayer is us talking to God.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
3 Things to do when praying- Matthew 6:5-13
Have you ever been scared to death that you would be called upon to pray in front of people? Did you remember the prayer requests? In case you didn't know, I am an extreme introvert. I used to be terrified that I would be called on and I have a few times. Yet I survived and prayed a simple and somewhat canned prayer.
I remember growing up in the Nazarene church and sometimes there would be someone who would just stand up and start praying. He would start hooping and hollorin' (that's Southern for Hollering or yelling) and sometimes waving a hankie around. It was a sight to see and it lasted for quite a while.
Jesus might have witnessed people in His day putting on a display like this. He probably saw them stand up in the synagogues or maybe the street corners. Actually, He said that he did. He tells us NOT to be like them and gives us 3 things to do when we pray:
Jesus was not at all forbidding public prayer and saying that we should ONLY pray in our closet. But He was saying that people who ONLY pray in public and never in private are praying for the wrong reasons.
Since when we pray and we do not truely know what or how we should pray Jesus gives us a model for prayer. We know it as the "Lord's Prayer". Some recite this as an actual prayer but in the context in which it is used it is a teaching tool.
Tomorrow we will break the steps down and examine each part. Today be thinking about your prayer life. Do you pray? If so, how often? Do you use scripture to help you?
I remember growing up in the Nazarene church and sometimes there would be someone who would just stand up and start praying. He would start hooping and hollorin' (that's Southern for Hollering or yelling) and sometimes waving a hankie around. It was a sight to see and it lasted for quite a while.
Jesus might have witnessed people in His day putting on a display like this. He probably saw them stand up in the synagogues or maybe the street corners. Actually, He said that he did. He tells us NOT to be like them and gives us 3 things to do when we pray:
- Instead of praying out in the open and drawing attention to yourself we should "go into our private room". Doing this we are by ourselves and our focus can ONLY be toward the one we are praying to.
- We are also to "shut the door". When we "shut the door" it allows us to open up in honesty toward God. We are more likely to confess before a Holy God our sins and repent from them.
- We are to "Pray to our Father who is in heaven." We are to remember who exactly we are talking to. The "Creator of the Universe", the one who SPOKE everything in existence. Humbling to think about isn't it? That is the point.
Jesus was not at all forbidding public prayer and saying that we should ONLY pray in our closet. But He was saying that people who ONLY pray in public and never in private are praying for the wrong reasons.
Since when we pray and we do not truely know what or how we should pray Jesus gives us a model for prayer. We know it as the "Lord's Prayer". Some recite this as an actual prayer but in the context in which it is used it is a teaching tool.
Tomorrow we will break the steps down and examine each part. Today be thinking about your prayer life. Do you pray? If so, how often? Do you use scripture to help you?
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Hey, Look at me! I'm trying to show you How to Give! Matthew 6:1-4
My wife and I are going through the process to try and teach our daughter how to ask for something in a respectful manner by saying "PLEASE." She has learned that if she says "PLEASE" loud enough and point out that she said "PLEASE" she should be allowed whatever she has asked for. She is trying to get our attention for doing something good.
Have we ever done this? Do we wait to do something good until someone is watching? After all if no one sees the good deed is it still a good deed? What's the reward if we do something good and no one sees it?
Jesus warned us that we should NOT do things to seek the praise of men. If we do then the praise of men will be our reward. Jesus instructs us that if we do these good deeds in "secret" our reward will be in heaven. He says "don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing."
You can make the choice: Seek the praise of man and have it last while you are here on earth (70-80 more years)
OR- Do your good deeds in secret and be rewarded by God in heaven (Lasts forever)
Have we ever done this? Do we wait to do something good until someone is watching? After all if no one sees the good deed is it still a good deed? What's the reward if we do something good and no one sees it?
Jesus warned us that we should NOT do things to seek the praise of men. If we do then the praise of men will be our reward. Jesus instructs us that if we do these good deeds in "secret" our reward will be in heaven. He says "don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing."
You can make the choice: Seek the praise of man and have it last while you are here on earth (70-80 more years)
OR- Do your good deeds in secret and be rewarded by God in heaven (Lasts forever)
Monday, August 27, 2012
Iron Bowl Love Matthew 5:43-48
This morning I'm reminded that there is only 5 days left until the start of college football season. It is my favorite time of year and many of you know that I am a huge Auburn fan. Having said that some of you know instantly what could ruffle my feathers. Yes that's right "Roll Tide" (Just typing that was like the Fonz saying ' I'm SORRY') Hands down the biggest rivalry is between Auburn University and The University of Alabama. It is so great that families have split, children have been disowned, and people have lost their jobs. When a child is born in the state of Alabama it is predestined to say "War Eagle" or "Roll Tide." I have even owned a bumper sticker that said "My 2 favorite teams are Auburn and anyone who plays Alabama. It was a real HATE for the other team.
Jesus said that we are to Love our Neighbor, which is central to the Christian image, and then continues breaking the thought pattern of his listeners by adding that we should "Love our enemies as well." On top of that we are to pray for them. WHAT?!? You see what good does it do if we only show love to those who it's easy to love? Bad things happen to both the good and the evil in this world. So if we ONLY love those who are easy to love then what kind of reward would we have? Or in other words, What kind of image does it paint for the unbeliever of a Christian?
Even unsaved people do these things. The Bible say that "if we are only loving those who love you ...and greet those who greet you... what are you doing out of the ordinary?" Then Jesus says that we are to "be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." We are not to be from the world that shows partiality. But if we show love impartially, guided by grace and mercy, then we show ourselves distinct, and we shine before the world, bringing glory to the Father.
That's the main idea; Our righteousness MUST impact the world because it surpasses mere "religiosity."
I have calmed down on my enthusiasm for college football, but not much. I no longer treat my Alabama friends as lepers and unclean outcasts. I congratulate them on wins and special achievements but I'll always root for the other team.
Exercise for the day;
Look around for those who you would consider your enemy and find ways to show love to them. It could be that you can simply just be an ear to them. Jerry Falwell had many enemies but he always showed them love. His biggest opponent, Larry Flynt, was also one of his best friends. Think of the impact that Dr. Falwell had for Christianity on Flynt's life even though his lifestyle has not.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Reflection
Last night I had "Meet the Teacher" at my school. It is always the one day that I dread the most and the day I look forward to the most. I look forward to it because I get to see some students that I have had in the past and see how they have grown. I dread it because I have to work very hard trying to make a good first impression on those that are coming in to my class.
I relate this to the section we are studying by saying this; We look at Jesus as our Teacher. We are already in the school year and He is in the middle of one of His lectures. Are we listening? Are we taking notes? Are we doing the homework by applying what HE has said in our lives now?
Reflect back at some of the lessons so far in Matthew chapter 5. By the way this is a good teaching practice to stop in the middle of the lesson and go back and do a short review.
Feel free to comment on what the Lord has taught you through these passages.
I relate this to the section we are studying by saying this; We look at Jesus as our Teacher. We are already in the school year and He is in the middle of one of His lectures. Are we listening? Are we taking notes? Are we doing the homework by applying what HE has said in our lives now?
Reflect back at some of the lessons so far in Matthew chapter 5. By the way this is a good teaching practice to stop in the middle of the lesson and go back and do a short review.
Feel free to comment on what the Lord has taught you through these passages.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Dentistry, Boxing, Lawyers, Physical Trainers, and Bankers- Matthew 5:38-42
Jesus again uses the formula "You have heard x, but I tell you x." Starting to see a pattern? You think that Jesus is trying to debunk everything that they have learned about the Law? Sort of a "Lawbusters" episode where He picks one of the Mosaic Laws and puts it to the test like Adam and Jamie do?
No not at all. Remember He started this sermon by saying that He didn't "come to destroy but to fulfill" the law. (5:17)
This section of the sermon Jesus is pointing out that we should go the "second mile". In other words, we are not only to meet the needs of those that are in need but go one step further.
First, Jesus pulls the Law that is the subject that deals with victims that have been wronged. The "eye for an eye" has been in ancient law for ages. Hammurabi included it and many other countries have used this as part of their "court system" of governing justice. Jesus takes this Law that they know very well and practice, and he tells them to "turn the other cheek". This is one of the more familiar saying in Christianity. This has been interpreted many times and in many different ways. I have heard that it is in place so that the Christian can hold a peace for a minute to prevent an instant outburst. Some would even add that you only have two cheeks, if it happened again then the Christian is verified in retaliation. But in the "Rule of Hermeneutic" we know that in order to properly interpret this for meaning we have to look at the context.
Second Jesus tells us that if someone sue us for our shirt then we are to give him our coat as well. Why would someone sue for our shirt. Hopefully no one during this day and age but back then it was understood that one could sue for shirts and coats. This was also the maximum you could sue for. People in those days didn't have many pieces of clothing as we do. If one was sued for both the shirt AND coat it was everything. Plus if the person sued for the coat and it was cold that night. The person could freeze (it gets real cold in desert terrain at night) and die. If this were to happen the person who sued for the coat was considered liable for that person's death.
Third, Jesus refers to the Roman rule that if a Roman soldier asked a civilian to carry his equipment He only could require one mile of him. This was so that the Roman soldier could be at fighting strength after traveling long distances. However, he could not require that civilian to go no more than one mile. It could be out of the way for the civilian but the trade off was the security in knowing the soldier was in a sense protecting the civilian from invaders. At least that was the idea. Jesus here points out that we are to go an extra mile. Even if it is out of our way.
Lastly, Jesus says that we are not to turn away anyone who wants to borrow and even tells us to give to those who ask. Historically, banking has always charged an interest on borrowed money. It is done for the time the money is away. That borrowed money could be used for investing for a gain. If it is loaned out that gain no longer is a potential unless interest is applied to the borrower. See how that works. So, Jesus addresses that we are to be generous by giving to those who ask for help and loan to those who want to borrow. There is a difference. If someone is asking for money, they aren't planning on repayment necessarily. But the one who asks for a loan is intending to pay back with interest.
What does all this mean? The law was not given to exact revenge, but to legislate justice. Breaking the law has consequences, but personal vengeance has no place. These passages have often been wrongly taken as a minimum guideline for retaliation. What Jesus clarifies is that they were always intended as a maximum or a ceiling for retaliation, and that mercy was always an acceptable intention underlying these laws.
For us, legalistically "letting the punishment fit the crime" and insisting upon a "eye for an eye" falls short. We must actually consider blessing the those that wrong us. Mercy (withholding deserved punishment) and grace (giving undeserved gifts) are legitimate forms of conduct.
No not at all. Remember He started this sermon by saying that He didn't "come to destroy but to fulfill" the law. (5:17)
This section of the sermon Jesus is pointing out that we should go the "second mile". In other words, we are not only to meet the needs of those that are in need but go one step further.
First, Jesus pulls the Law that is the subject that deals with victims that have been wronged. The "eye for an eye" has been in ancient law for ages. Hammurabi included it and many other countries have used this as part of their "court system" of governing justice. Jesus takes this Law that they know very well and practice, and he tells them to "turn the other cheek". This is one of the more familiar saying in Christianity. This has been interpreted many times and in many different ways. I have heard that it is in place so that the Christian can hold a peace for a minute to prevent an instant outburst. Some would even add that you only have two cheeks, if it happened again then the Christian is verified in retaliation. But in the "Rule of Hermeneutic" we know that in order to properly interpret this for meaning we have to look at the context.
Second Jesus tells us that if someone sue us for our shirt then we are to give him our coat as well. Why would someone sue for our shirt. Hopefully no one during this day and age but back then it was understood that one could sue for shirts and coats. This was also the maximum you could sue for. People in those days didn't have many pieces of clothing as we do. If one was sued for both the shirt AND coat it was everything. Plus if the person sued for the coat and it was cold that night. The person could freeze (it gets real cold in desert terrain at night) and die. If this were to happen the person who sued for the coat was considered liable for that person's death.
Third, Jesus refers to the Roman rule that if a Roman soldier asked a civilian to carry his equipment He only could require one mile of him. This was so that the Roman soldier could be at fighting strength after traveling long distances. However, he could not require that civilian to go no more than one mile. It could be out of the way for the civilian but the trade off was the security in knowing the soldier was in a sense protecting the civilian from invaders. At least that was the idea. Jesus here points out that we are to go an extra mile. Even if it is out of our way.
Lastly, Jesus says that we are not to turn away anyone who wants to borrow and even tells us to give to those who ask. Historically, banking has always charged an interest on borrowed money. It is done for the time the money is away. That borrowed money could be used for investing for a gain. If it is loaned out that gain no longer is a potential unless interest is applied to the borrower. See how that works. So, Jesus addresses that we are to be generous by giving to those who ask for help and loan to those who want to borrow. There is a difference. If someone is asking for money, they aren't planning on repayment necessarily. But the one who asks for a loan is intending to pay back with interest.
What does all this mean? The law was not given to exact revenge, but to legislate justice. Breaking the law has consequences, but personal vengeance has no place. These passages have often been wrongly taken as a minimum guideline for retaliation. What Jesus clarifies is that they were always intended as a maximum or a ceiling for retaliation, and that mercy was always an acceptable intention underlying these laws.
For us, legalistically "letting the punishment fit the crime" and insisting upon a "eye for an eye" falls short. We must actually consider blessing the those that wrong us. Mercy (withholding deserved punishment) and grace (giving undeserved gifts) are legitimate forms of conduct.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Mean What You Say and Say What You Mean- Matthew 5:33-37
I love watching the "Most Interesting Man in the World" commercials. One of them you hear the narrator say "People hang on his every word... even the prepositions." In case you have never seen them, these are commercials that portray a dapper bearded man that is in his 70's who has performed feats of peculiarity someone who has a "Fonzi-esque" persona. (Only if he did jump sharks he would have made it... and the sharks would have applauded.) He had an almost cult following where you could read more of the interesting accomplishments this character did.
Yesterday we talked a little on the condition of the heart. In this passage Jesus addresses the character of speech. He warns us about oaths and being careful in what we say.
Have you ever heard someone say "You swear to God?" meaning that you would keep your word otherwise God will strike you. OR how about "May God strike me down if it is not true"? Making these oaths have good intentions but we do not know what the future may bring. The Bible says that we "can not make a single hair white or black." (v. 36) We can not Have you ever made one of these oaths and then broken them because of other circumstances? We all have. Jesus knew this and taught that it is better to have a good reputation than to have to rely on a swear. Or we should simply just let our Yes mean Yes and our No mean No. My Dad used to tell me to "Mean what you say, and say what you mean!"
Go through today aware of you oaths to people, your kids, your spouse, and to God.
Please, if you would like to share comments leave them below.
***I do not endorse any products that said person in the above article represents***
Yesterday we talked a little on the condition of the heart. In this passage Jesus addresses the character of speech. He warns us about oaths and being careful in what we say.
Have you ever heard someone say "You swear to God?" meaning that you would keep your word otherwise God will strike you. OR how about "May God strike me down if it is not true"? Making these oaths have good intentions but we do not know what the future may bring. The Bible says that we "can not make a single hair white or black." (v. 36) We can not Have you ever made one of these oaths and then broken them because of other circumstances? We all have. Jesus knew this and taught that it is better to have a good reputation than to have to rely on a swear. Or we should simply just let our Yes mean Yes and our No mean No. My Dad used to tell me to "Mean what you say, and say what you mean!"
Go through today aware of you oaths to people, your kids, your spouse, and to God.
Please, if you would like to share comments leave them below.
***I do not endorse any products that said person in the above article represents***
Monday, August 20, 2012
Whatever it Takes - Matthew 5:27-30
After Jesus established that murder originates in the heart, He continues the thought of other sins that originate in the heart- Adultery
"I've NEVER committed adultery! I have always been with my wife/husband."
Remember that Jesus is addressing the heart issues. These are the issues that are seldom seen by people because we think of it as being an action. Jesus said- "everyone who looks at a women to lust after her has committed adultery with her in his heart." (v.28)
But wait a minute! I'm not even married.
Au contraire mon frere! Even if you are single this still applies. Those that wait for their mate may still lust after another.
Now wait just a second! You are telling me that I cant even look at the opposite sex with no thoughts of attraction?
Jesus gives a hyperbole by suggesting that if your eye or your hand causes you to sin then get rid of it! Because it "is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell!" Obviously Jesus isn't really wanting us to go around gouging our eyes out or chopping our hands off but the point is clear.
If ANYTHING causes us to sin then we are to get rid of it by any means possible!
The hands and eyes don't actually CAUSE the sin but rather they are the tools used for it. Hands can commit actions of sin and the eyes can allow sin into the heart/mind. So the question is "How do we get rid of the possibility?" That is what we have to figure out with guidance from the Holy Spirit.
Some of the missions I went on when I was in the Navy, we were told to do certain things "by any means necessary." The methods may not have been ideal however, they were necessary to accomplish the mission.
So in the case of sin we are to "Do what ever it takes to correct our heart attitude."
For some, it may be deactivating Facebook for a while, selling your TV, taking a different route to and from work, or making sure that your spouse is with you when you eat out with coworkers.
God's Word contain many scriptures regarding our heart;
1. We are to guard it! Proverbs 4:23
2. Love God with it!
3. Bind God's law with!
Just to name a few.
As you go through today as God to make you aware to the "THINGS" that are causing sin in your life.
"I've NEVER committed adultery! I have always been with my wife/husband."
Remember that Jesus is addressing the heart issues. These are the issues that are seldom seen by people because we think of it as being an action. Jesus said- "everyone who looks at a women to lust after her has committed adultery with her in his heart." (v.28)
But wait a minute! I'm not even married.
Au contraire mon frere! Even if you are single this still applies. Those that wait for their mate may still lust after another.
Now wait just a second! You are telling me that I cant even look at the opposite sex with no thoughts of attraction?
Jesus gives a hyperbole by suggesting that if your eye or your hand causes you to sin then get rid of it! Because it "is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell!" Obviously Jesus isn't really wanting us to go around gouging our eyes out or chopping our hands off but the point is clear.
If ANYTHING causes us to sin then we are to get rid of it by any means possible!
The hands and eyes don't actually CAUSE the sin but rather they are the tools used for it. Hands can commit actions of sin and the eyes can allow sin into the heart/mind. So the question is "How do we get rid of the possibility?" That is what we have to figure out with guidance from the Holy Spirit.
Some of the missions I went on when I was in the Navy, we were told to do certain things "by any means necessary." The methods may not have been ideal however, they were necessary to accomplish the mission.
So in the case of sin we are to "Do what ever it takes to correct our heart attitude."
For some, it may be deactivating Facebook for a while, selling your TV, taking a different route to and from work, or making sure that your spouse is with you when you eat out with coworkers.
God's Word contain many scriptures regarding our heart;
1. We are to guard it! Proverbs 4:23
2. Love God with it!
3. Bind God's law with!
Just to name a few.
As you go through today as God to make you aware to the "THINGS" that are causing sin in your life.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Get Your Mind Right!
Today is the day of the week that we prepare ourselves for worship. We should take a moment to self-examine our lives. The meaning of "worship" actually means that we should give our adoration to or show reverence toward an object or deity.Said object should receive our worthy time. So in essence, we should give our "worth-ship" to God. If God is "worthy" of our time and attention then we should give Him our absolute best.
When I was in Rescue Swimmer School, the instructors used to yell out "Get your mind right!" just before we were going to PT (Physical Training). If we didn't get our mind right for the task then we could not give it our whole effort. The same is with getting ready for worship (worth-ship). If you don't get your mind right you can not give it full effort.
So today in preparation for tomorrow set aside all worldly things and GET YOUR MIND RIGHT!
When I was in Rescue Swimmer School, the instructors used to yell out "Get your mind right!" just before we were going to PT (Physical Training). If we didn't get our mind right for the task then we could not give it our whole effort. The same is with getting ready for worship (worth-ship). If you don't get your mind right you can not give it full effort.
So today in preparation for tomorrow set aside all worldly things and GET YOUR MIND RIGHT!
Friday, August 17, 2012
Don't Murder the Person You are Forgiving Matthew 5:21-26
Today's Reading: Matthew 5:21-26
I heard one of my friends in the Navy tell me a story about when he was driving home from work. He began by saying in a loud exaggerated voice.
What? Yes, that is exactly what it means. If you are angry with someone you just murdered them in your heart. But wait! That's not all! Jesus also takes this opportunity to also go one step further and teach on reconciliation. You should go first to the person who wronged you and reconcile while you are on the way. This way you are ready for worship.
I know there are many different applications here but these two are the most outstanding;
1. Anger left unsetteled is the same as murder (only in heart not action)
2. In order to get your heart right you must be reconciled to your brothers
As you go about today think about who you may have wronged. Maybe someone you know that has something against you. Think of a way of reconciliation. Pray about the situation and ask for boldness. Ask God to give you wisdom in the situation and the words to say.
Also ask God to bring awareness in situations that make you angry. Think of the person the story and put yourself in both perspectives.
I heard one of my friends in the Navy tell me a story about when he was driving home from work. He began by saying in a loud exaggerated voice.
"Man, I was in my lane going about the speed limit. When all of a sudden this car came out of nowhere and cut me off. I mean within inches."Too often we let our emotions run our lives. Especially our anger. In today's reading, Jesus addresses the issue and equates it to breaking a Commandment. Remember yesterday when we read that Jesus was the fulfillment of the law and that no one is able to keep all of the Law? This is the first point that He makes. Anger left unsettled is the same as MURDER!
"I was so mad that I followed that car so close that I could smell the interior."
"We went in and out of traffic. Finally the car took an exit and I was right on it."
"We were speeding through the neighborhood and then the car pulled into a driveway." "I slammed on my brakes and skidded the car in front of the house and waited for the guy to get out of the car so that I could..."
"Then I saw. It was an old lady shaking so bad she could hardly walk. I even think she mouthed the words to me 'I'm sorry'."
What? Yes, that is exactly what it means. If you are angry with someone you just murdered them in your heart. But wait! That's not all! Jesus also takes this opportunity to also go one step further and teach on reconciliation. You should go first to the person who wronged you and reconcile while you are on the way. This way you are ready for worship.
I know there are many different applications here but these two are the most outstanding;
1. Anger left unsetteled is the same as murder (only in heart not action)
2. In order to get your heart right you must be reconciled to your brothers
As you go about today think about who you may have wronged. Maybe someone you know that has something against you. Think of a way of reconciliation. Pray about the situation and ask for boldness. Ask God to give you wisdom in the situation and the words to say.
Also ask God to bring awareness in situations that make you angry. Think of the person the story and put yourself in both perspectives.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Legalistic Lawyers and Purposeful Propitiation Matthew 5:17-20
"Don't assume that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.
For I assure you: Until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or one stroke of a letter will pass from the law until all things are accomplished.
Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches people to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever practices and teaches these commandments will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
(Matthew 5:17-20)
You have heard that people say that we are no longer under the Law BUT under grace. What exactly does this mean? Do we ignore the Law? Do we follow the Law?
I'm here to tell you- neither and both.
HUH? Well think of it this way. Why do we need laws? Easy answer... so the people would not live in Chaos. If there were "rules" to society then people would be in a constant state of fear.
But instead, God gave the Laws (10 Commandments) to Moses so that he could start the government for the nation of Israel.
"But I'm not Jewish!" says you? Ha, neither am I but God is still going to hold people accountable for all of the Laws, not just the 10 commandments, but all 600 plus commands.
"But wait, following the law to the "t" is impossible!" I know, that's the point! When Jesus said that He didn't come to destroy the law but to fulfill it, the Pharisees were in His presence. He briefly sides with them in that the Pharisees lived by these laws and thought that this was the key to heaven. But, instead Jesus ends this thought by saying that "unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Those hearing this knew it was impossible to surpass them and much less able to keep the law. But that wasn't the purpose of the Law. Jesus started by saying He was the fulfillment of the Law. It was never intended to draw man closer to God but rather to show man how far apart from God he really is. Jesus fulfilled the Law by being the propitiation for sin. It is impossible to keep the law even a small bit of it. Hence the need for a Savoir.
The next verses Jesus goes into detail in why it's impossible to keep the Law. We will look at each of them individually.
Today as you go about. Think of the ways we break the law of today's society. Speeding? Running stop-signs? Tax Laws?
Monday, August 13, 2012
Today is postponed but also a day to Praise Him!
Last night we experienced a storm. This storm moved through our neighborhood while we were on our way home. Randi and I did our usual "What are we doing for dinner?" conversation and we decided on Long John Silver's. We stopped at the one in Lake Worth but noticed the power was out. So we decided to go to the one in Saginaw. We didn't know how bad the storm was but it had knocked out power to them as well.
"Sonic?" my wife exclaims.
"Sure!" my stomach yells.
We ate while the rest of the storm passed on by. The temperature went from 103 to 75 in a matter of 30 minutes. Then the trip home. As we pulled into the outskirts of our neighborhood we started to see trees down everywhere and got a little nervous. Even the old trees at the local elementary school were down. They must have been 100 years old.
Then....
We were at first a little upset but then quickly reminded that God had redirected our path to not be in this mess. You know? Sometimes God sends a storm our way just so that we can be a little closer to Him.
Grace to you!
"Sonic?" my wife exclaims.
"Sure!" my stomach yells.
We ate while the rest of the storm passed on by. The temperature went from 103 to 75 in a matter of 30 minutes. Then the trip home. As we pulled into the outskirts of our neighborhood we started to see trees down everywhere and got a little nervous. Even the old trees at the local elementary school were down. They must have been 100 years old.
We were at first a little upset but then quickly reminded that God had redirected our path to not be in this mess. You know? Sometimes God sends a storm our way just so that we can be a little closer to Him.
Grace to you!
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Hey Bud, gotta light? Matthew 5:14-16
Today's Reading Matthew 5:14-16
Hey Bud, gotta light?
Have you ever woke up in the middle of the night and it was pitch black in the room? You tried to make it to the bathroom without stepping on or running into something but instead that corner of the bed or that toy that wasn't picked sends pain messages to your half awake brain. All this because there was no light.
Replay this scenario except this time imagine you have a night light plugged in. Different? Of course! Although your toes still may have found the corner and your heal found the toy, this time you saw it coming.
Jesus calls us to be the light of the world. We are to bring attention to that light so that others can see how God is working in our life. What is this light He is talking about? It is Jesus! Remember that Jesus called Himself "the light of the world" (John 8:12, 9:5, 11:9). He tells us to not hide our light, such as under a bowl, but rather on a lampstand so that all can see. Think about it; if Jesus is the light that we are supposed to show off do we have to excuse the light because some may complain? Or, should we limit the brightness because it might offend some? NO! While "being the salt of the earth" deals with the inner conscience "being the light of the world" is an outward action. We reflect the light that Jesus gives us by our actions.
Today try to list as many qualities of light that parallel this illustration.
Example; light reveals mistakes, light exposes, light ____
Hey Bud, gotta light?
Have you ever woke up in the middle of the night and it was pitch black in the room? You tried to make it to the bathroom without stepping on or running into something but instead that corner of the bed or that toy that wasn't picked sends pain messages to your half awake brain. All this because there was no light.
Replay this scenario except this time imagine you have a night light plugged in. Different? Of course! Although your toes still may have found the corner and your heal found the toy, this time you saw it coming.
Jesus calls us to be the light of the world. We are to bring attention to that light so that others can see how God is working in our life. What is this light He is talking about? It is Jesus! Remember that Jesus called Himself "the light of the world" (John 8:12, 9:5, 11:9). He tells us to not hide our light, such as under a bowl, but rather on a lampstand so that all can see. Think about it; if Jesus is the light that we are supposed to show off do we have to excuse the light because some may complain? Or, should we limit the brightness because it might offend some? NO! While "being the salt of the earth" deals with the inner conscience "being the light of the world" is an outward action. We reflect the light that Jesus gives us by our actions.
Today try to list as many qualities of light that parallel this illustration.
Example; light reveals mistakes, light exposes, light ____
Friday, August 10, 2012
Pass the Salt
Today’s Reading: Matthew 5:13
There are many different types of salts because of its
chemical structure. Remember this from Chemistry class? Take a metal and bond
it with a non-metal usually the product from a neutralization of an acid and a
base. NaCl, MgSo4 are the
most common. NaCl being table salt that was just mentioned above and Magnesium
Sulfate which is known as Epsom salt. I think I just heard a couple of “ahhhhhs”.
Fun Fact: MgSO4 can also be used as an additive in fertilizer.
Salt has been used throughout history as a preservative and
a spice. Some early civilizations even used it as currency. Today it is used
mainly in flavoring of foods such as yummy French fries and brining a pork butt
before slow-cooking. (Hungry yet?) You can even add salt to the water before you
drop the pasta. Its importance in the diet comes true when you look at its
chemical properties. It is essential in maintaining the electrolyte balance in
our bodies. Without it we would not have the electrical impulse that makes our
body move, metabolize, and think. Salt
is even used in non-foodie applications. It is poured on the roads to lower the
freezing point of water. Some people have found salt to soften water and add it
pools instead of Chorine.
Jesus mentioned that we “are the salt of the earth.” And “if
the salt could lose its taste, how can it be made salty?” Is it possible for
salt to lose its “saltiness”? According to some, yes. The only way that salt
loses its flavor is by dilution in water. The more water the less salt would be
noticeable or effective. The common use for salt during this time was to preserve
food for later use. So when Jesus was calling us to be the salt of the earth,
He was calling on us to preserve the truth of the Gospel. If we were to lose
our “saltiness” by diluting the Gospel with the world’s wisdom and ideologies we
are considered “worthless” and should be “thrown out”.
How do you treat the Gospel? Do you modify it so that the
other person isn’t offended? Take a moment today and meditate on how we are
being salt to others. Are we preserving God’s word and adding flavor? Or, are
we diluted so much that others can’t tell if we are true followers of Christ.
Tomorrow will be the continuation of Jesus’ thought; being
light to the world. Matthew 5:14-16
Thursday, August 9, 2012
8 Habits of Highly Effective Christians
Today's Reading Matthew 5:1-12
8 Habits of Highly Effective Christians
Christians today are often mistakenly observed as being intolerant, and overbearing. Partially this is correct. Many take a stand on certain teachings but forget the focus of Christianity; love and humility. Jesus starts his famous Sermon on the Mount by presenting the ideals and traits he was looking for in His followers. Each beatitude contradicts society's typical way of life. Jesus even showed us how to live by each of these by Hid own life. If our goal is to be like Him, the Beatitudes will challenge the way we live each day.
Benjamin Franklin kept a journal throughout his life and recorded his time management technique. It's modeled by businesses and time managers worldwide and popularized by Stephan Covey in his book Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. When Ben Franklin was asked about what was important to him his answer was to upkeep a virtuous life. To do this he would list out the common virtues and out to the side he would rank them in the order he felt that he was proficient. He would then pick the virtue at the bottom of the list and concentrate on that one for the day.
In the Life Application Bible (NIV, 1986), the graphic illustrates what I have dubbed 8 Habits of Highly Effective Christians.
Take time to look up and read the references listed and concentrate on the Beatitude that you are weakest in, then move to the next one similar to the method of Ben Franklin.
8 Habits of Highly Effective Christians
Christians today are often mistakenly observed as being intolerant, and overbearing. Partially this is correct. Many take a stand on certain teachings but forget the focus of Christianity; love and humility. Jesus starts his famous Sermon on the Mount by presenting the ideals and traits he was looking for in His followers. Each beatitude contradicts society's typical way of life. Jesus even showed us how to live by each of these by Hid own life. If our goal is to be like Him, the Beatitudes will challenge the way we live each day.
Benjamin Franklin kept a journal throughout his life and recorded his time management technique. It's modeled by businesses and time managers worldwide and popularized by Stephan Covey in his book Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. When Ben Franklin was asked about what was important to him his answer was to upkeep a virtuous life. To do this he would list out the common virtues and out to the side he would rank them in the order he felt that he was proficient. He would then pick the virtue at the bottom of the list and concentrate on that one for the day.
In the Life Application Bible (NIV, 1986), the graphic illustrates what I have dubbed 8 Habits of Highly Effective Christians.
Take time to look up and read the references listed and concentrate on the Beatitude that you are weakest in, then move to the next one similar to the method of Ben Franklin.
| Beatitude | Old Testament Anticipation | Clashing World values | God’s reward | How to Develop this attitude |
| Poor in spirit (5:3) | Isaiah 57:15 | Pride and personal independence | Kingdom of Heaven | James 4:7-10 |
| Mourning (5:4) | Isaiah 61:1,2 | Happiness at any cost | Comfort (2 Corinthians 1:4) | Psalm 51, James 4:7-10 |
| Meekness (5:5) | Psalm 37:5-11 | Power | Inherit the earth | Matthew 11:27-30 |
| Righteousness (5:6) | Isaiah 11:4, 5; 42:1-4 | Pursuing personal needs | Filled (satisfied) | John 16:5-11, Philippians 3:7-11 |
| Mercy (5:7) | Psalm 41:1 | Strength without feeling | Be shown mercy | Ephesians 5:1,2 |
| Pure in Heart (5:8) | Psalm 24:3, 4; 51:10 | Deception is acceptable | See God | 1 John 3:1-3 |
| Peacemaker (5:9) | Isaiah 57:18, 19; 60:17 | Personal peace is pursued without concern for the world’s chaos | Be called sons of God | Romans 12:9-21, Hebrews 12:10, 11 |
| Persecuted (5:10) | Isaiah 52:13, 53:12 | Weak commitments | Inherit the Kingdom of heaven | 2 Timothy 3:12 |
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Obedience
Today’s Reading; Matthew 1-4
How well do you obey divine directives? On an obedience
scale of 1-10 (with 1 being “consistently disobedient,” 10 being “consistently
obedient”), how would you rate yourself?
Today’s reading abounds with examples of the importance of
obedience. The genealogy of chapter one sparkles with the names of those who
obeyed God in times of spiritual decadence: Abraham, Ruth, David, Hezekiah,
Josiah, Joseph. Chapter 3 describes the ministry of John the Baptist as he
preached message of repentance and fruit bearing, a message of demanding
uncompromising obedience. In chapter 4, Jesus was obedient to God’s will and
Word, rather than to agree to Satan’s subtle temptations.
In what area of your life is God speaking to you about
obedience? It is one thing to know what God wants you to do; it is something
else to make obedience a commitment in your daily schedule. In the margin or on
a piece of paper, write the acts of obedience performed by three different
people in the genealogy (for example, Abraham obeyed God by leaving Ur). Now add your name to the list, together with
an act of obedience you will undertake by faith today.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Practice of Righteousness
Today's Reading Romans 12-16
When someone strikes you on the cheek and you strike them back, that's expected - the natural reaction. When someone strikes you on the other cheek and you still don't retaliate even after running out of cheeks, that's remarkable - the supernatural reaction.
The final chapters of Romans deal with supernatural reactions to everyday situations - the kind possible only when Christ is in control. Can you think of a 20th- century example from your life that illustrates the kind of reaction Paul is calling for with each of the following exhortations?
Prefer one another (12:10)__________________________________________________
Be patient in tribulation (12:12) _____________________________________________
Give no man evil for evil (12:17) ____________________________________________
Avenge not yourself (12:19) ________________________________________________
Remember, anyone can act like a Christian, but it takes a true Christian to react like one!
When someone strikes you on the cheek and you strike them back, that's expected - the natural reaction. When someone strikes you on the other cheek and you still don't retaliate even after running out of cheeks, that's remarkable - the supernatural reaction.
The final chapters of Romans deal with supernatural reactions to everyday situations - the kind possible only when Christ is in control. Can you think of a 20th- century example from your life that illustrates the kind of reaction Paul is calling for with each of the following exhortations?
Prefer one another (12:10)__________________________________________________
Be patient in tribulation (12:12) _____________________________________________
Give no man evil for evil (12:17) ____________________________________________
Avenge not yourself (12:19) ________________________________________________
Remember, anyone can act like a Christian, but it takes a true Christian to react like one!
Monday, August 6, 2012
Today's Reading Romans 9-11
Does history scare you or excite you? After surveying the
pages of Israel’s history and seeing God’s fingerprints on every page, Paul
bursts forth in a spontaneous expression of praise and worship: “O the depth of
the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments,
and His ways past finding out!” (11:33)
For Paul, it is like thumbling through old scrapbooks of the
history of his people, and recalling the faithfulness of God in the midst of
unbelief. Who would hesitate to entrust the future to a God like that?
Pull out some old photograph or scrapbook albums and spend a
few minutes reviewing God’s faithfulness to you and your family. Where did He
meet the unexpected needs? Provide safety? Heal illness? Give blessings you
never dreamed of? Now express your confidence in Him for future needs, and
close your time of prayer by reading out loud 11:36.
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Putting the WORD to Work
One of the interesting patterns you'll note in Scripture as you continue through the Epistles involves content and application.
You see, God gave us the Bible not merely for our information, but for our transformation. As the New Testament clearly teaches us, knowing and not doing is really not knowing at all. That's why Jesus frequently ended His talks with the words, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."
This crucial movement from content to application, underlies all the New Testament letters. For instance, in Romans, the apostle Paul outlines the basic truths of the Christian faith in chapters 1-11, then it applies it in chapters 12-15. Ephesians 1-3 reveals doctrine, then moves to duty in chapters 4-6.
Paul is not the only author who consistently takes the profound truths of the faith into the realm of the everyday life. John, James, and even Jesus in His recorded sermons consistently spend at least half their time applying the content they have taught.
The lesson here is obvious. Knowledge must always lead to something even more important - obedience.
That may may not be easy, but it's what God calls us to do. As Mark Twain once said, "Most people are bothered by those passages of Scripture they do not understand; but the passages that bother me the most are those I do understand."
Here is something to think about:
Are you letting your Bible reading become just an intellectual exercise, a means of gaining more information? Or are you letting its truths sift through your own life, so that you wrestle with the will of God in your own life every day?
The Biblical pattern is clear: In God's eyes, knowledge requires obedience. Take some time to examine your own life in light of that pattern, and talk it over with God.
You see, God gave us the Bible not merely for our information, but for our transformation. As the New Testament clearly teaches us, knowing and not doing is really not knowing at all. That's why Jesus frequently ended His talks with the words, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."
This crucial movement from content to application, underlies all the New Testament letters. For instance, in Romans, the apostle Paul outlines the basic truths of the Christian faith in chapters 1-11, then it applies it in chapters 12-15. Ephesians 1-3 reveals doctrine, then moves to duty in chapters 4-6.
Paul is not the only author who consistently takes the profound truths of the faith into the realm of the everyday life. John, James, and even Jesus in His recorded sermons consistently spend at least half their time applying the content they have taught.
The lesson here is obvious. Knowledge must always lead to something even more important - obedience.
That may may not be easy, but it's what God calls us to do. As Mark Twain once said, "Most people are bothered by those passages of Scripture they do not understand; but the passages that bother me the most are those I do understand."
Here is something to think about:
Are you letting your Bible reading become just an intellectual exercise, a means of gaining more information? Or are you letting its truths sift through your own life, so that you wrestle with the will of God in your own life every day?
The Biblical pattern is clear: In God's eyes, knowledge requires obedience. Take some time to examine your own life in light of that pattern, and talk it over with God.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Pursuit of Righteousness
Today's Reading Romans 6-8
A do-it-yourselfer went into a hardware store and asked for a saw. The salesman pulled a chain saw from the shelf and commented, "This is our finest saw. Guaranteed to cut ten cords of lumber a day."
"I'll take it!" responded the customer jubilantly.
Next day he came back, haggard and exhausted, to return the chain saw. "Something must be wrong, he moaned. "I could only cut three cords of lumber a day with that thing."
"Let me try it," urged the salesman, pulling on the cord to start the motor. "Vvvvvrrrroooooommmm," went the chain saw. "What's that noise?" exclaimed the customer.
Chapters 7 and 8 may remind you of the plight of that do-it-yourselfer: wanting to do the right thing but failing to apply the power for victorious living that God has supplied in the person of the Holy Spirit. See if you can find five promises in chapter 8 regarding the Holy Spirit's role in your daily life. Then select one and draw upon it today. That's why they're there.
A do-it-yourselfer went into a hardware store and asked for a saw. The salesman pulled a chain saw from the shelf and commented, "This is our finest saw. Guaranteed to cut ten cords of lumber a day."
"I'll take it!" responded the customer jubilantly.
Next day he came back, haggard and exhausted, to return the chain saw. "Something must be wrong, he moaned. "I could only cut three cords of lumber a day with that thing."
"Let me try it," urged the salesman, pulling on the cord to start the motor. "Vvvvvrrrroooooommmm," went the chain saw. "What's that noise?" exclaimed the customer.
Chapters 7 and 8 may remind you of the plight of that do-it-yourselfer: wanting to do the right thing but failing to apply the power for victorious living that God has supplied in the person of the Holy Spirit. See if you can find five promises in chapter 8 regarding the Holy Spirit's role in your daily life. Then select one and draw upon it today. That's why they're there.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Provision of Unrighteousness
Today’s Reading Romans 4-5
Provision of Unrighteousness
It’s only natural to be friendly to those who are friendly.
To like those who are likeable.
To love those who are lovely.
Outgoing, attractive, pleasant people have a magnetic
quality about them that draws the attention and affection in others. Human love
is a response to favorable qualities in the object of one’s affection.
Not so with God’s love! He expressed His love for sinful
humanity while we were “without strength”, “ungodly” (5:6), “sinners” (5:8),
and “enemies” (5:10). God’s love is not a response at all. It is a decisive act
of His will toward the object of His affection. God loves you, not because of but in spite of you.
Do you love as God loves, reaching out with concern and
compassion to the needy and unlovely and even repulsive? If not, admit your
lack of love to God (He knows already); meditate upon His unconditional love
for you; then with God’s help, allow the “love of God (to be) shed abroad”
(5:5) from your heart to the heart of one other person who desperately needs to
experience it today.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Problem of Unrighteousness
Today's Reading Romans 1-3
Two Christians were talking about the president of a corporation who died recently. The executive had been a moral man and a philanthropist, but an avowed atheist who had made no pretense of believing in Jesus Christ as his Savior. One friend mused, "It's hard to believe he won't be in heaven. He was such a good man, so thoughtful of his employees, so generous." To which the other gently responded with the words of John 3:18, He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."
Perhaps you, too, have difficulty coming to gripes with the lost condition of sinful people... or with you own lostness apart from Christ. Read Romans 3 again thoughtfully, until the solemn truth of human depravity sinks in. Humanity's only hope - and yours - is faith in Christ's finished work. It's simple as accepting God's offer of "salvation to every one that believeth" (1:16). Will you in believing faith come to Jesus Christ right now?
Tomorrow we will be looking into Romans 4-5 "Provision of Righteousness"
Two Christians were talking about the president of a corporation who died recently. The executive had been a moral man and a philanthropist, but an avowed atheist who had made no pretense of believing in Jesus Christ as his Savior. One friend mused, "It's hard to believe he won't be in heaven. He was such a good man, so thoughtful of his employees, so generous." To which the other gently responded with the words of John 3:18, He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."
Perhaps you, too, have difficulty coming to gripes with the lost condition of sinful people... or with you own lostness apart from Christ. Read Romans 3 again thoughtfully, until the solemn truth of human depravity sinks in. Humanity's only hope - and yours - is faith in Christ's finished work. It's simple as accepting God's offer of "salvation to every one that believeth" (1:16). Will you in believing faith come to Jesus Christ right now?
Tomorrow we will be looking into Romans 4-5 "Provision of Righteousness"
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