SCRIPTURE: Luke 12:7 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
OBSERVATION: Jesus is talking with His disciples and other followers about some very practical things. The crowds had gotten so thick that they began to trample one another (12:1). He talked about hypocrisy and secrecy and then begins to talk about fear and worry. The words 'fear' and 'worry' and 'anxiety' are used repeatedly throughout this chapter. So is the word 'value.'
In this verse, Jesus says, "Do not fear." Why? What is the reason that I don't have to fear? Because I have value. Not just value, but value to God. There seems to be a connection (an adverse connection) between fear and value. Confidence in my value reduces fear and anxiety. The lack of confidence in my value increases fear and anxiety.
APPLICATION: What if I were absolutely convinced of my high value to God? What would that do to any fear, worry or anxiety that I might face? I think we can rightly say that it would have a very great effect, and the effect would be a very positive one.
The problem is many people aren't convinced of their value to God. And why should they be? Evolution tells them that they came about as a great cosmic chance, or accidental, event. Where is the confidence there? "Do not fear therefore; ________." How do you fill in that blank from an evolutionary standpoint? You can't. There is no reason for calm or confidence. If there is no God and I don't really matter at all, I have nothing to count on. So the phobias and the anxieties pile up all around us.
I am valuable to God. That is not a point of pride or of self-worship. It is, however, a point of confidence and peace. If I matter to God, (and I do), then what do I have to fear?
PRAYER: Father, thank You for taking notice of me. You tell me to cast my cares upon You, because You care for me. I receive Your care and Your love to cast out fear and anxiety. Amen.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007
Opposing the Opposer
SCRIPTURE: Zechariah 3:1 Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to oppose him.
OBSERVATION: Another picture in heaven like we get with Job when Satan comes to oppose Job. Here we are given a glimpse at Satan doing what Satan does. In fact, the word here for Satan and the word for oppose is actually the same word. In other words, "Satan was sataning." That's what Satan does. He opposes. He resists. He accuses. He generally makes things difficult for people.
But not without the Lord's knowledge. Satan is powerless to do anything without God's consent, and when he does do anything with evil intent, God turns it around and uses it for good.
In this picture, Satan is opposing and resisting ('satanizing') Joshua the high priest. The Lord rebukes Satan, and then removes Joshua's' old, ratty clothes and give him new ones. The the Lord puts a new turban of authority on his head. Then he makes Joshua some awesome promises of blessing. Satan didn't hinder grace for Joshua. If anything, he served to show grace for what it really is.
APPLICATION: One time, someone came to bring accusation against a servant/worker in the church. The person who was accused was someone I have known for years who has served sacrificially many, many, many, many hours. The other person was someone I had only a recent acquaintance with. This person wanted me to accept the accusation being brought without question. I wouldn't do that. Instead, because of what I knew of the person and the situation, I stood in defense of the one accused.
God stands in defense of me. When the accusations come ('accuse' is another meaning of 'Satan'), He won't turn against me. He will shower me with amazing grace.
PRAYER: Lord, in this verse I see You standing on my behalf, rebuking the enemy and clothing me with Your great promises. I praise You.
OBSERVATION: Another picture in heaven like we get with Job when Satan comes to oppose Job. Here we are given a glimpse at Satan doing what Satan does. In fact, the word here for Satan and the word for oppose is actually the same word. In other words, "Satan was sataning." That's what Satan does. He opposes. He resists. He accuses. He generally makes things difficult for people.
But not without the Lord's knowledge. Satan is powerless to do anything without God's consent, and when he does do anything with evil intent, God turns it around and uses it for good.
In this picture, Satan is opposing and resisting ('satanizing') Joshua the high priest. The Lord rebukes Satan, and then removes Joshua's' old, ratty clothes and give him new ones. The the Lord puts a new turban of authority on his head. Then he makes Joshua some awesome promises of blessing. Satan didn't hinder grace for Joshua. If anything, he served to show grace for what it really is.
APPLICATION: One time, someone came to bring accusation against a servant/worker in the church. The person who was accused was someone I have known for years who has served sacrificially many, many, many, many hours. The other person was someone I had only a recent acquaintance with. This person wanted me to accept the accusation being brought without question. I wouldn't do that. Instead, because of what I knew of the person and the situation, I stood in defense of the one accused.
God stands in defense of me. When the accusations come ('accuse' is another meaning of 'Satan'), He won't turn against me. He will shower me with amazing grace.
PRAYER: Lord, in this verse I see You standing on my behalf, rebuking the enemy and clothing me with Your great promises. I praise You.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Assignment: Joy
SCRIPTURE: Luke 10:17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name."
OBSERVATION: This must have been a tough assignment, and one that some of them were unsure about. Jesus told seventy of His followers to go out two by two, without Him to minister in surrounding cities -- places that He was going to later.
This was tough enough. But then He said, "I'm sending you out as lambs among wolves." Not an inspiring thought.
Then, to make it even more difficult, He said, "By the way, take nothing with you. No money. No supplies." (Even on Survivor they get to take one article with them.) How were they supposed to live? Find a house, stay there, and hopefully they will feed you.
Wow. This was a tough assignment. Some must have really been freaking out. but there is still more.
"One final thing," Jesus said. "Heal the sick while you're there." What?! Heal the sick? Oh, sure. That's easy. Just do the miraculous.
So these disciples who watched Jesus but never did much on their own were to go out in groups of two, taking nothing with them, as lambs among wolves, hoping to find a place to stay (no reservations), to cities that may or may not accept them and do the miraculous? That's the assignment.
I think I would have been quaking in my boots. But they went.
They returned from this assignment with joy! This assignment was not only tough, it was a joy-giver.
APPLICATION: When I think of the ministry assignments that are before me, they pale in comparison to this one. I may think, "That will be too difficult," or even, "That will ruin my life," or, "I won't be able to do it." I'll bet these seventy had the same ideas. But, if I step out like these did, will I instead find joy beyond my wildest dreams and expectations?
PRAYER: Jesus, Here am I. Send me. Give me joy in serving You. Amen.
OBSERVATION: This must have been a tough assignment, and one that some of them were unsure about. Jesus told seventy of His followers to go out two by two, without Him to minister in surrounding cities -- places that He was going to later.
This was tough enough. But then He said, "I'm sending you out as lambs among wolves." Not an inspiring thought.
Then, to make it even more difficult, He said, "By the way, take nothing with you. No money. No supplies." (Even on Survivor they get to take one article with them.) How were they supposed to live? Find a house, stay there, and hopefully they will feed you.
Wow. This was a tough assignment. Some must have really been freaking out. but there is still more.
"One final thing," Jesus said. "Heal the sick while you're there." What?! Heal the sick? Oh, sure. That's easy. Just do the miraculous.
So these disciples who watched Jesus but never did much on their own were to go out in groups of two, taking nothing with them, as lambs among wolves, hoping to find a place to stay (no reservations), to cities that may or may not accept them and do the miraculous? That's the assignment.
I think I would have been quaking in my boots. But they went.
They returned from this assignment with joy! This assignment was not only tough, it was a joy-giver.
APPLICATION: When I think of the ministry assignments that are before me, they pale in comparison to this one. I may think, "That will be too difficult," or even, "That will ruin my life," or, "I won't be able to do it." I'll bet these seventy had the same ideas. But, if I step out like these did, will I instead find joy beyond my wildest dreams and expectations?
PRAYER: Jesus, Here am I. Send me. Give me joy in serving You. Amen.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Helpful Enemies
SCRIPTURE: Ezra 4:1-2 Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the descendants of the captivity were building the temple of the Lord God of Israel, they came to Zerubbabel and the heads of the fathers’ houses, and said to them, "Let us build with you, for we seek your God as you do; and we have sacrificed to Him since the days of Esarhaddon king of Assyria, who brought us here."
OBSERVATION: News Flash: Some people can't be trusted.
The enemies came and said, "Let us help." Zerubbabel and the leaders didn't get sucked into their trap.
The enemies knew that the best way to destroy this work was from the inside. Get inside on the team and destroy it from the inside out. A destructive worker on teh team is far more destructive and distracting than those who are known enemies on the outside. The leaders were very wise in not accepting their help. They still caused trouble, but not as much as they would have caused on the inside.
APPLICATION: Not everyone who says, "I want to help" should be allowed to help. Those who are allowed to help, who are part of the team, should not be allowed to distract or hinder the work.
Paul said that wolves will come in among you in sheep's clothing trying to cause problems from the inside. For this reason a leader should always be on guard and watchful, not just of those who pose a threat from outside, but even more for those who pose a threat from the inside.
PRAYER: Good Shepherd, be watchful over Your people. Empower those who are genuine in their desire to help. Expose those who pose a threat.
OBSERVATION: News Flash: Some people can't be trusted.
The enemies came and said, "Let us help." Zerubbabel and the leaders didn't get sucked into their trap.
The enemies knew that the best way to destroy this work was from the inside. Get inside on the team and destroy it from the inside out. A destructive worker on teh team is far more destructive and distracting than those who are known enemies on the outside. The leaders were very wise in not accepting their help. They still caused trouble, but not as much as they would have caused on the inside.
APPLICATION: Not everyone who says, "I want to help" should be allowed to help. Those who are allowed to help, who are part of the team, should not be allowed to distract or hinder the work.
Paul said that wolves will come in among you in sheep's clothing trying to cause problems from the inside. For this reason a leader should always be on guard and watchful, not just of those who pose a threat from outside, but even more for those who pose a threat from the inside.
PRAYER: Good Shepherd, be watchful over Your people. Empower those who are genuine in their desire to help. Expose those who pose a threat.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Near Death Experience
SCRIPTURE: Luke 8:55 Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately. And He commanded that she be given something to eat.
OBSERVATION: This is one of those 'near death experiences' that we are actually told about in the Bible. We don't have to wonder, "Well, was she really dead or not... can someone really come back from the dead... is her testimony of what she experienced really valid?" We know, on biblical account that she was, in fact, dead. Not just 'mostly dead.' How great it would've been to put together a symposium with Jairus' daughter, Lazarus, the widow of Nain's son, Dorcus and Eutychus to hear first hand of their experiences of being dead and then coming back to life. That would be one conference I would love to attend.
Death has a great fascination to us for many obvious reasons. First, because we know that we will all face it. No one is exempt or immune. No one will escape physical death. Next, because no one really knows what lays beyond the veil of death. It's not like going to New Jersey, where you can talk to many people who have been there, and maybe even see some pictures. (In other ways, however, it is just like going to New Jersey...)
So, there is a lot more that could be said about death -- but the thing I want to focus on is: "Then her spirit returned and she arose." Death became life when her spirit returned. The presence of absence of the spirit is the difference between life and death. The fact that it returned means that it didn't cease to exist in death but was relocated somehow. It returned means that it had gone away and was able, with Jesus' words, to come back.
APPLICATION: Without a spirit a body is inanimate and will quickly begin to decompose. A spirit give animation, life and growth to our physical bodies. Life or death are spiritual issues more than they are physical issues. death is a relocation of the spirit ("To be absent in body is to be present with the Lord"). We are not body with a spirit, but spirits with a body.
I really wish Luke would have added some testimony from this young girl. I guess we will all find out for ourselves someday.
PRAYER: Jesus, in speaking to Your opponents about the resurrection from the dead, You said that God reveals Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. You said that He is not the God of the dead but of the living. Those men are dead by our standards but alive by Yours. Thank You for the certainty of eternal life. Amen.
Monday, September 24, 2007
We're Not Worthy
SCRIPTURE: Luke 7:4 And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying that the one for whom He should do this was deserving,
OBSERVATION: The people who came on behalf of the centurion based their request for Jesus to heal his servant on his being deserving. They said he loved the Jewish nation (though he himself was a Roman centurion). He had built them a synagogue. Based on these actions, and possibly others, the people judged him as worthy or deserving.
The man didn't seem to agree in his own self-assessment. He sent messengers who said, "I am not worthy, or deserving." The Jews that were there must have thought, "Oh no. That was the basis for our argument to get Jesus to come to you. Now you've ruined it."
The centurion changed the discussion from his worthiness to Jesus' authority. he wasn't arguing, "Come and heal my servant because I deserve it or because You owe me." He asked, "Heal my servant because You can. And You can do it from right there." And Jesus did. He also commended the man's faith.
APPLICATION: Here are some applications to consider -
PRAYER: Jesus, I am reminded today of Your great power and authority. I want You to be pleased with my faith, as You were pleased by the faith of this man. Amen.
OBSERVATION: The people who came on behalf of the centurion based their request for Jesus to heal his servant on his being deserving. They said he loved the Jewish nation (though he himself was a Roman centurion). He had built them a synagogue. Based on these actions, and possibly others, the people judged him as worthy or deserving.
The man didn't seem to agree in his own self-assessment. He sent messengers who said, "I am not worthy, or deserving." The Jews that were there must have thought, "Oh no. That was the basis for our argument to get Jesus to come to you. Now you've ruined it."
The centurion changed the discussion from his worthiness to Jesus' authority. he wasn't arguing, "Come and heal my servant because I deserve it or because You owe me." He asked, "Heal my servant because You can. And You can do it from right there." And Jesus did. He also commended the man's faith.
APPLICATION: Here are some applications to consider -
- Don't ask for what you deserve. Don't pray on the basis of what you deserve. The centurion was right. Even though he had done great things and people were willing to stand up for him, he wasn't deserving of Jesus coming to him. No matter how much I've done -- and I'll never do as much as this man had done -- I don't deserve Jesus' attention or love or presence. But He has been so generous! Not on the basis of worthiness, but on the basis of faith.
- Pray believing in Jesus' authority. Can He or not? Is anything too difficult or impossible for Him? Is there anything that is not under His authority? No, no and no.
- Intercede for others. This miracle took place because others went to Jesus on this man's behalf and on behalf of his servant.
PRAYER: Jesus, I am reminded today of Your great power and authority. I want You to be pleased with my faith, as You were pleased by the faith of this man. Amen.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
The Master's Hand
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 123:2 Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, As the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, So our eyes look to the Lord our God, Until He has mercy on us.
OBSERVATION: This simple and short psalm was recited by travelers on their way to Jerusalem, going up the incline to the city and to the temple. Along the way they remembered their contempt and their problems. They also remembered their position as servant of God. As a servant you demand nothing. It is best to remember your place.
A good servant keeps his eye on his master. The hands of the master are especially important for two reasons: one is that a servant should be doing manual chores so that the master doesn't have to. If the master's hands reach for a hammer, the servant should see the movement and pick up the hammer himself. An attentive servant anticipates what he can do t o ease the work of his master's hands. The second reason is for provision. What the servant has comes form his master's hand.
APPLICATION: The obvious question is about my attentiveness to the hand of God. As a good servant, I will see where He is at work and serve Him in that place. This is the basic teaching of Henry Blackaby's book, "Experiencing God." Where is God at work? What does He have His hand in?
At our Worship Wednesday service this week, people shared testimonies of God's activity in their lives. It was powerful. It was so encouraging to hear story after story of God's miraculous provision. God is at work in the lives of people.
PRAYER: Have mercy on us, O God. Help me to see the direction and intention of Your hand so that I might serve You faithfully. I want to hear those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
OBSERVATION: This simple and short psalm was recited by travelers on their way to Jerusalem, going up the incline to the city and to the temple. Along the way they remembered their contempt and their problems. They also remembered their position as servant of God. As a servant you demand nothing. It is best to remember your place.
A good servant keeps his eye on his master. The hands of the master are especially important for two reasons: one is that a servant should be doing manual chores so that the master doesn't have to. If the master's hands reach for a hammer, the servant should see the movement and pick up the hammer himself. An attentive servant anticipates what he can do t o ease the work of his master's hands. The second reason is for provision. What the servant has comes form his master's hand.
APPLICATION: The obvious question is about my attentiveness to the hand of God. As a good servant, I will see where He is at work and serve Him in that place. This is the basic teaching of Henry Blackaby's book, "Experiencing God." Where is God at work? What does He have His hand in?
At our Worship Wednesday service this week, people shared testimonies of God's activity in their lives. It was powerful. It was so encouraging to hear story after story of God's miraculous provision. God is at work in the lives of people.
PRAYER: Have mercy on us, O God. Help me to see the direction and intention of Your hand so that I might serve You faithfully. I want to hear those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Friday, September 21, 2007
Come From Behind Win
SCRIPTURE: Daniel 7:25 He shall speak pompous words against the Most High, Shall persecute the saints of the Most High, And shall intend to change times and law. Then the saints shall be given into his hand For a time and times and half a time.
OBSERVATION: In Daniel's vision, the saints of God are given over to a king (or kingdom) that speaks pompous words against God and persecutes His people. This king isn't nice. He isn't fair. He certainly isn't righteous or godly. Yet he enjoys this victory.
It is only a temporary victory.
Daniel is told about it before it happens. That means it certainly doesn't catch God off-guard or by surprise. He is fully aware of it. In fact, He uses this to accomplish His ultimate purpose and plan foretold by Daniel.
APPLICATION: Every victory against the people of God, or against me as a person, is a temporary victory. it will not last. In fact, every apparent set-back is pre-known by God and used for His purposes.
To see the 'good guys' lose is such a let down, but to know it is only temporary and that the good guys score a come-from-behind win is wonderful.
Don't be discouraged by temporary set-backs. They don't tell the final story.
Daniel didn't even fully understand this vision. In fact, no one did (8:27). God reveals His mysteries when He wills and to whom He wills. Be careful of ascribing meaning to things beyond my understanding.
PRAYER: Father, You are truly the Author and the Finisher of my faith. It is all Your story. Give me understanding to apply what I need to know and trust where I do not understand. Amen.
OBSERVATION: In Daniel's vision, the saints of God are given over to a king (or kingdom) that speaks pompous words against God and persecutes His people. This king isn't nice. He isn't fair. He certainly isn't righteous or godly. Yet he enjoys this victory.
It is only a temporary victory.
Daniel is told about it before it happens. That means it certainly doesn't catch God off-guard or by surprise. He is fully aware of it. In fact, He uses this to accomplish His ultimate purpose and plan foretold by Daniel.
APPLICATION: Every victory against the people of God, or against me as a person, is a temporary victory. it will not last. In fact, every apparent set-back is pre-known by God and used for His purposes.
To see the 'good guys' lose is such a let down, but to know it is only temporary and that the good guys score a come-from-behind win is wonderful.
Don't be discouraged by temporary set-backs. They don't tell the final story.
Daniel didn't even fully understand this vision. In fact, no one did (8:27). God reveals His mysteries when He wills and to whom He wills. Be careful of ascribing meaning to things beyond my understanding.
PRAYER: Father, You are truly the Author and the Finisher of my faith. It is all Your story. Give me understanding to apply what I need to know and trust where I do not understand. Amen.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
What Shall We Do Then?
SCRIPTURE: Luke 3:10 So the people asked him, saying, "What shall we do then?"
OBSERVATION: What a great reminder about the need people have for practical application to spiritual teaching and the charge for teachers to provide the practical application. John the Baptist here makes it very relevant and very practical. He tailors his response to each individual based on their life situation and occupation:
Does my relationship with Jesus, reading His word and listening to preaching, have any affect on my life? Does it matter? How does it apply to my specific situation? Am I doing it?
APPLICATION: Here it is, the application. John said, "Bear fruits worthy of repentance." Then he talks about generosity, integrity, contentment.
PRAYER: Lord, give me insight, like John, to make repentance and evident aspect of my life. This seems to be a real block, one which I cannot afford. many people study theology but don't let it change their life. I don't want to be one of those people. Make every part of my life reflect You. Amen.
OBSERVATION: What a great reminder about the need people have for practical application to spiritual teaching and the charge for teachers to provide the practical application. John the Baptist here makes it very relevant and very practical. He tailors his response to each individual based on their life situation and occupation:
- To those with extra clothes or food
- To tax collectors
- To soldiers
- To Herod the king about his evil ways
Does my relationship with Jesus, reading His word and listening to preaching, have any affect on my life? Does it matter? How does it apply to my specific situation? Am I doing it?
APPLICATION: Here it is, the application. John said, "Bear fruits worthy of repentance." Then he talks about generosity, integrity, contentment.
- Generosity. With my things, my attention, my time and my praise -- am I generous? Do I give freely expecting nothing in return?
- Integrity. Have I compromised in any way on integrity issues? Do not tell or perpetuate anything misleading or deceptive.
- Contentment. Lack of contentment and dissatisfaction leads to resentment, bitterness, selfishness and other things that are displeasing to the Lord.
PRAYER: Lord, give me insight, like John, to make repentance and evident aspect of my life. This seems to be a real block, one which I cannot afford. many people study theology but don't let it change their life. I don't want to be one of those people. Make every part of my life reflect You. Amen.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Fifty-Five Words
SCRIPTURE: Luke 2:36-37 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
OBSERVATION: Anna was honored by the Lord, as was Simeon, to be among the first to see and recognize Jesus as the Messiah. She is like a dear family friend that comes to the maternity room to see the new baby while the new mom and dad burst with pride. You get the sense that God Himself is bursting with pride as he shows off this new Baby, the salvation of the world, to Anna, His close family friend.
Anna was honored by the Lord because of her life of simple devotion. She never started a church. She never wrote a book. She never had a television ministry, but she lived a devoted life of service. She was the real deal. She didn't serve God to get something else. She just served God.
She had been widowed at a very early age, after only seven years of married life. She could have become bitter with God, "Why did you let this happen to me?!" But she didn't. She could have made a deal with God, "I'll fast and pray in the temple if you bring me a new husband soon." But she didn't. She fasted. She prayed. Not as a manipulation or as a means to an end. She did it just to serve God.
Eighty-four years is a long time. This was no short term service. This was a life-time commitment.
This woman, Anna, was a hero (heroine) of God in the fullest sense of the word. But she doesn't fit the typical stereotype. She was a woman, not a man. Women are honored by God and can be heroes (or heroines). She was elderly. Too often today elderly people are seen as 'out of date.' God doesn't think so. He honors this elderly woman of God (who was still going strong, by the way).
She was a prophetess. Can this even happen? Can a woman be a prophet, a spiritual leader and authority, one who speaks forth the words of God on God's behalf for others, even men (see the story of Paul and Phillip's daughters) to hear? Maybe God's theology is a little off here. No, it's not.
She fasted and she prayed. That's it. That's her resume. To God, that is a very impressive resume. And she did it night and day.
APPLICATION: This is a wonderful and a challenging passage of scripture about Anna. She causes me to rethink assumptions of my life:
OBSERVATION: Anna was honored by the Lord, as was Simeon, to be among the first to see and recognize Jesus as the Messiah. She is like a dear family friend that comes to the maternity room to see the new baby while the new mom and dad burst with pride. You get the sense that God Himself is bursting with pride as he shows off this new Baby, the salvation of the world, to Anna, His close family friend.
Anna was honored by the Lord because of her life of simple devotion. She never started a church. She never wrote a book. She never had a television ministry, but she lived a devoted life of service. She was the real deal. She didn't serve God to get something else. She just served God.
She had been widowed at a very early age, after only seven years of married life. She could have become bitter with God, "Why did you let this happen to me?!" But she didn't. She could have made a deal with God, "I'll fast and pray in the temple if you bring me a new husband soon." But she didn't. She fasted. She prayed. Not as a manipulation or as a means to an end. She did it just to serve God.
Eighty-four years is a long time. This was no short term service. This was a life-time commitment.
This woman, Anna, was a hero (heroine) of God in the fullest sense of the word. But she doesn't fit the typical stereotype. She was a woman, not a man. Women are honored by God and can be heroes (or heroines). She was elderly. Too often today elderly people are seen as 'out of date.' God doesn't think so. He honors this elderly woman of God (who was still going strong, by the way).
She was a prophetess. Can this even happen? Can a woman be a prophet, a spiritual leader and authority, one who speaks forth the words of God on God's behalf for others, even men (see the story of Paul and Phillip's daughters) to hear? Maybe God's theology is a little off here. No, it's not.
She fasted and she prayed. That's it. That's her resume. To God, that is a very impressive resume. And she did it night and day.
APPLICATION: This is a wonderful and a challenging passage of scripture about Anna. She causes me to rethink assumptions of my life:
- What is a spiritual hero? Is my idea of a spiritual hero someone like Anna? Do I walk by and overlook spiritual heroes all the time because I have a faulty idea of what one may look like? Do I get so caught up on performance and accomplishment that I neglect things of greater spiritual weight, like fasting and prayer? It is very easy to do.
- What is my spiritual resume? My intention here is not to get into a resume-based relationship with God, but simply to ask the question, "How would my life be described?" This passage starts out, "Now there was one Anna..." Then fifty-five words describe this woman. The key features were included. What if this passage started, "Now there was one Jim..." How would the next fifty-five words go? How would I want them to go? If there is a difference, what am I going to do about it?
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
What You Don't Know Can Hurt You
SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 45:20 And so you shall do on the seventh day of the month for everyone who has sinned unintentionally or in ignorance. Thus you shall make atonement for the temple.
OBSERVATION: We think of sin as intentional disobedience against God -- and it is primarily. But here scripture speaks about unintentional sin done in ignorance. Sin is offending God, acting against His design and plan. We can (and do) sin without even being aware of it. Those sins need atonement, too. When I consider the sin of my life, including the numerous sins of which I am unaware, I am even more grateful for forgiveness that Jesus gives, for my bad intentions and my ignorance. His atonement cleanses me from both.
APPLICATION: "Ignorance of the law is no defense." Even if you are not aware that murder is against the law, you still pay the penalty for it. I want to learn more about His law so that I won't violate it. And I'm more thankful than ever for His complete forgiveness. ("But I didn't mean to..." doesn't cut it.)
PRAYER: Jesus, help me to know Your law and to keep Your law. Forgive my ignorance. Amen.
OBSERVATION: We think of sin as intentional disobedience against God -- and it is primarily. But here scripture speaks about unintentional sin done in ignorance. Sin is offending God, acting against His design and plan. We can (and do) sin without even being aware of it. Those sins need atonement, too. When I consider the sin of my life, including the numerous sins of which I am unaware, I am even more grateful for forgiveness that Jesus gives, for my bad intentions and my ignorance. His atonement cleanses me from both.
APPLICATION: "Ignorance of the law is no defense." Even if you are not aware that murder is against the law, you still pay the penalty for it. I want to learn more about His law so that I won't violate it. And I'm more thankful than ever for His complete forgiveness. ("But I didn't mean to..." doesn't cut it.)
PRAYER: Jesus, help me to know Your law and to keep Your law. Forgive my ignorance. Amen.
Monday, September 17, 2007
River of Life
SCRIPTURE: Revelation 22:1 And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.
OBSERVATION: This is not just a river, but it is a pure river. It is so pure that John describes it as "clear as crystal." This is not just a river, but a river of water of life. All water has some life in it, water is needed to maintain any living thing. This is not just the water of life, but the water of all life.
This is not just any river, but it proceeds from the throne of God and of the Lamb. This explains its purity. This also explains its life-giving properties. But these waters are not restricted. Verse 17 says anyone who comes may take of the water of life freely.
APPLICATION: I know that heaven is beyond my ability to understand, but it is not beyond my ability to desire. The picture of this river -- a central feature of heaven -- sounds incredible. It reflects and carries the character and nature of God ("proceeds from His throne"). It demonstrates His character and the character that I want to have:
PRAYER: Father, make me a river of life that flows from Your throne. Amen.
OBSERVATION: This is not just a river, but it is a pure river. It is so pure that John describes it as "clear as crystal." This is not just a river, but a river of water of life. All water has some life in it, water is needed to maintain any living thing. This is not just the water of life, but the water of all life.
This is not just any river, but it proceeds from the throne of God and of the Lamb. This explains its purity. This also explains its life-giving properties. But these waters are not restricted. Verse 17 says anyone who comes may take of the water of life freely.
APPLICATION: I know that heaven is beyond my ability to understand, but it is not beyond my ability to desire. The picture of this river -- a central feature of heaven -- sounds incredible. It reflects and carries the character and nature of God ("proceeds from His throne"). It demonstrates His character and the character that I want to have:
- Purity. It is crystal clear. It is unspoiled by pollution or corruption of any kind. When I give myself to anything that is foreign to God or His character I foul the water.
- Life-giving. I can't author life like God can, but I can add to the life of others. I can care about the life of others.
- Generosity. Do I give as freely as this river does? This river is able to give freely because its source is God, a never-ending supply. Isn't that my source, too?
PRAYER: Father, make me a river of life that flows from Your throne. Amen.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
A Beautiful Mosaic
SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 41:20 From the floor to the space above the door, and on the wall of the sanctuary, cherubim and palm trees were carved.
OBSERVATION: All throughout this temple described in great detail are two decorative figures: cherubim and palm trees. they are carved one after the other, with the two-faced cherubim looking at the pal trees -- one face looking at the palm tree to the left, and one face looking to the palm tree to the right. Both images filled this temple.
The thing that I find interesting is that one of these images is recognize able to human experience -- the palm tree -- and one of them is not -- the cherubim. The earthly and the heavenly both blend together to adorn this heavenly temple.
APPLICATION: There is a very old heresy that makes a stark distinction between 'worldly' and 'heavenly.' Anything earthly is automatically nonspiritual and anything heavenly is separate and spiritual. But God is able to blend together, in one mosaic, both elements for His purposes. Don't miss the spiritual significance of very common, ordinary things.
PRAYER: Father, help me to see you in everything, not just the 'spiritual.' Amen.
OBSERVATION: All throughout this temple described in great detail are two decorative figures: cherubim and palm trees. they are carved one after the other, with the two-faced cherubim looking at the pal trees -- one face looking at the palm tree to the left, and one face looking to the palm tree to the right. Both images filled this temple.
The thing that I find interesting is that one of these images is recognize able to human experience -- the palm tree -- and one of them is not -- the cherubim. The earthly and the heavenly both blend together to adorn this heavenly temple.
APPLICATION: There is a very old heresy that makes a stark distinction between 'worldly' and 'heavenly.' Anything earthly is automatically nonspiritual and anything heavenly is separate and spiritual. But God is able to blend together, in one mosaic, both elements for His purposes. Don't miss the spiritual significance of very common, ordinary things.
PRAYER: Father, help me to see you in everything, not just the 'spiritual.' Amen.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
The Liberation of God's Nearness
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 145:18 The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.
OBSERVATION: The nearness of the Lord is a great comfort. As a child, if you have to do something of which you are unsure or a bit afraid, it is good to know that mom or dad are nearby. Just to know they are nearby makes all the difference.
A familiar scene plays out each year all over the world. On the first day of school a little boy or little girl of the house is going off to school for the first time. It is a big deal. It is a really big deal. New clothes and school supplies have all been bought, and now it is time. It is a huge new step. Along with the child goes mom or dad or both. Not to go in place of their child, but just to be there for them as a comfort and strength.
APPLICATION: God is that parent to me. He wants to be near me. he is glad to be near. And His nearness is a great source of comfort. Because of His nearness, He is available and ready when I call upon Him. It does no good to call upon Him if He is not near, and it does no good for Him to be near id I can't call upon Him. But, put those two things together and it is an awesome comfort. I can know today that anything I will face, He is near to me. That knowledge allows me to branch out and be more brave than I ever thought possible, like that child going off to school for the first time.
His nearness is not a limiter. It is a liberator.
PRAYER: Father, I am blessed by Your nearness.
OBSERVATION: The nearness of the Lord is a great comfort. As a child, if you have to do something of which you are unsure or a bit afraid, it is good to know that mom or dad are nearby. Just to know they are nearby makes all the difference.
A familiar scene plays out each year all over the world. On the first day of school a little boy or little girl of the house is going off to school for the first time. It is a big deal. It is a really big deal. New clothes and school supplies have all been bought, and now it is time. It is a huge new step. Along with the child goes mom or dad or both. Not to go in place of their child, but just to be there for them as a comfort and strength.
APPLICATION: God is that parent to me. He wants to be near me. he is glad to be near. And His nearness is a great source of comfort. Because of His nearness, He is available and ready when I call upon Him. It does no good to call upon Him if He is not near, and it does no good for Him to be near id I can't call upon Him. But, put those two things together and it is an awesome comfort. I can know today that anything I will face, He is near to me. That knowledge allows me to branch out and be more brave than I ever thought possible, like that child going off to school for the first time.
His nearness is not a limiter. It is a liberator.
PRAYER: Father, I am blessed by Your nearness.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Fetch!
SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 37:19 say to them, Thus says the Lord God: I am about to take the stick of Joseph (which is in the hand of Ephraim) and the tribes of Israel associated with it; and I will put the stick of Judah upon it, and make them one stick, in order that they may be one in my hand.
OBSERVATION: A branch can be grafted in to a plant while there is still life in it. But a stick, which is lifeless, being joined together with another stick is miraculous and supernatural. This passage also reveals God's desire and Hi s power to restore broken relationships. He wants to mend those who are separated, and He can do it.
APPLICATION: Even when it seems hopeless, like a valley of dry bones or a broken, lifeless stick, look to God to do the miraculous.
PRAYER: God, give me a prophetic ability to speak life into dry situations and unity into brokenness. Accomplish Your supernatural will. Amen.
OBSERVATION: A branch can be grafted in to a plant while there is still life in it. But a stick, which is lifeless, being joined together with another stick is miraculous and supernatural. This passage also reveals God's desire and Hi s power to restore broken relationships. He wants to mend those who are separated, and He can do it.
APPLICATION: Even when it seems hopeless, like a valley of dry bones or a broken, lifeless stick, look to God to do the miraculous.
- Be one who speaks life. (Bones are never too dry.)
- Be one who speaks unity. (Sticks are never too broken.)
- Be one who speaks for God. (Most important of all.)
PRAYER: God, give me a prophetic ability to speak life into dry situations and unity into brokenness. Accomplish Your supernatural will. Amen.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Three Dangers for Sheep
SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 34:31 You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture and I am your God, says the Lord God.
OBSERVATION: This chapter could form the basis of much study on ministry and church life. The continuation of this chapter is in Matthew 9:36, where it says about Jesus, "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. (Also, John 10)
APPLICATION: There are three perils that God's people (sheep) have to be protected from:
1- Selfish Shepherds. (v.2-10) Their shepherds were neglecting their duties to their sheep:
OBSERVATION: This chapter could form the basis of much study on ministry and church life. The continuation of this chapter is in Matthew 9:36, where it says about Jesus, "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. (Also, John 10)
APPLICATION: There are three perils that God's people (sheep) have to be protected from:
1- Selfish Shepherds. (v.2-10) Their shepherds were neglecting their duties to their sheep:
- To strengthen the weak
- To heal the sick
- To bind up the broken
- To bring back those driven away
- To seek out the lost
- They ate the good pasture, drank the good water
- They trampled the remainder with their feet and fouled the water
- They pushed with their side and shoulder
- The butted the weak with their horns
- They scattered them
- The beasts of the field
- Hunger
- Shame
- "Cloudy and dark days" (v.12)
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
God Involved
SCRIPTURE: Daniel 4:17 "... the Most High is sovereign over the kingdom of mortals; he gives it to whom he will and sets over it the lowliest of human beings."
OBSERVATION: That phrase, "the most High rules in the kingdom of men," is the one that caught my attention.
Nebuchadnezzar was what some would call a spiritual man. He set up a huge image, undoubtedly at a great cost, and made a decree that everyone would worship this image. At the time of worship, instrumentalists were instructed to play elaborate music. He was willing to mix church and state, as long as it served his purposes.
What Nebuchadnezzar found out is it doesn't work that way. There really is a G0d, not just a pretend deity for national identity, but a real God. And God doesn't take His cues from men, even kings. God doesn't stay tucked away in heave so preoccupied with heavenly affairs and administration that He doesn't have time to get involved with earthly affairs. "The most High rules in the kingdom of men." People feel safe with a pretend God or a far-off and distant God. But a God who is involved and is in charge. That's a different story.
APPLICATION: This story is about pride. Nebuchadnezzar figured his success was due to his own doing. He learned that it is God. It was God all along.
God does rule in the kingdom of men. He is not distant and removed. He is involved in my daily affairs. He is involved today. Will I give notice and recognition to Him? He is real. He is near. He is involved. He is in charge.
PRAYER: God, it is You who are in control of this day, not me. I rest in You and I trust in You. Let my life be worship before You today.
OBSERVATION: That phrase, "the most High rules in the kingdom of men," is the one that caught my attention.
Nebuchadnezzar was what some would call a spiritual man. He set up a huge image, undoubtedly at a great cost, and made a decree that everyone would worship this image. At the time of worship, instrumentalists were instructed to play elaborate music. He was willing to mix church and state, as long as it served his purposes.
What Nebuchadnezzar found out is it doesn't work that way. There really is a G0d, not just a pretend deity for national identity, but a real God. And God doesn't take His cues from men, even kings. God doesn't stay tucked away in heave so preoccupied with heavenly affairs and administration that He doesn't have time to get involved with earthly affairs. "The most High rules in the kingdom of men." People feel safe with a pretend God or a far-off and distant God. But a God who is involved and is in charge. That's a different story.
APPLICATION: This story is about pride. Nebuchadnezzar figured his success was due to his own doing. He learned that it is God. It was God all along.
God does rule in the kingdom of men. He is not distant and removed. He is involved in my daily affairs. He is involved today. Will I give notice and recognition to Him? He is real. He is near. He is involved. He is in charge.
PRAYER: God, it is You who are in control of this day, not me. I rest in You and I trust in You. Let my life be worship before You today.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Search for Meaning
SCRIPTURE: Daniel 2:3 And the king said to them, "I have had a dream, and my spirit is anxious to know the dream."
OBSERVATION: Nebuchadnezzar was a mighty king, lapping up entire kingdoms in his wake. God mad it abundantly clear that He was empowering Nebuchadnezzar to accomplish His purposes. Nebuchadnezzar is sometimes referred to in scripture as 'My servant Nebuchadnezzar." Not because he knew or served God, but because God used him to accomplish His purposes.
God had given to him great power and great might and great success. Apparently, this didn't cause Nebuchadnezzar to wonder about the meaning of his life or his great success.
But then this confusing dream comes along and he is desperate to find its meaning. "My spirit is anxious to know the dream." He is so certain there is a meaning, that it is not just a random and meaningless dream, that he gathers his smartest and most spiritual advisers. Every philosophy, theology and current train of thought was represented. For added motivation, if they can't tell him the dream and its meaning they are all toast.
It is only God, through Daniel, who is able to give meaning to this dream and, through the dream, give meaning and context to Nebuchadnezzar's life.
APPLICATION: Life has meaning. Everything about life has meaning. People need meaning, like Nebuchadnezzar. Sometimes that need is buried beneath layers of busyness or success, but it is still there. Then an event in life comes along, like this dream, which adds confusion and causes someone to say, "What is the meaning of this, and the meaning of life?" The search for meaning takes many forms and many avenues, but it can only be answered by God.
PRAYER: Father, all meaning is found in You. My life is not a random dream without meaning but everyday of my life was recorded in Your book before I lived one of them. I can live a meaningful life because You give my life meaning. Amen.
OBSERVATION: Nebuchadnezzar was a mighty king, lapping up entire kingdoms in his wake. God mad it abundantly clear that He was empowering Nebuchadnezzar to accomplish His purposes. Nebuchadnezzar is sometimes referred to in scripture as 'My servant Nebuchadnezzar." Not because he knew or served God, but because God used him to accomplish His purposes.
God had given to him great power and great might and great success. Apparently, this didn't cause Nebuchadnezzar to wonder about the meaning of his life or his great success.
But then this confusing dream comes along and he is desperate to find its meaning. "My spirit is anxious to know the dream." He is so certain there is a meaning, that it is not just a random and meaningless dream, that he gathers his smartest and most spiritual advisers. Every philosophy, theology and current train of thought was represented. For added motivation, if they can't tell him the dream and its meaning they are all toast.
It is only God, through Daniel, who is able to give meaning to this dream and, through the dream, give meaning and context to Nebuchadnezzar's life.
APPLICATION: Life has meaning. Everything about life has meaning. People need meaning, like Nebuchadnezzar. Sometimes that need is buried beneath layers of busyness or success, but it is still there. Then an event in life comes along, like this dream, which adds confusion and causes someone to say, "What is the meaning of this, and the meaning of life?" The search for meaning takes many forms and many avenues, but it can only be answered by God.
PRAYER: Father, all meaning is found in You. My life is not a random dream without meaning but everyday of my life was recorded in Your book before I lived one of them. I can live a meaningful life because You give my life meaning. Amen.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Perfect Judgement
SCRIPTURE: Revelation 15:4 Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. For all nations shall come and worship before You, For Your judgments have been manifested."
OBSERVATION: The judgements of God coming to pass results in worship of all nations. We normally don't think of judgement in this way -- as cause for worship. Judgement normally has negative connotations. If someone is judgemental it is not considered a good thing.
If you picture a courtroom after a long trial and everyone is waiting with eager anticipation. All the evidence is in and the case has been made. everyone waits for the judgement. When the judge read the judgement a cry goes out from everyone there. When the judgement is right, the innocent or the victims cry out in relief and vindication, and the guilty cry out in final desperation. When the verdict is wrong, the cry is a cry of injustice.
God's judgement is always right. His final judgement will result in glory and praise.
APPLICATION: Only God's judgement is perfect. If 'judgemental' means an unfair bias or judging unfairly without having all the information, then God could never be judgemental. But I can.
I can be judgemental. I am not God. I don't have all the information. I don't have judgement authority. I am not judge. God's judgement will be perfect and result in praise. Mine will not. The smartest thing for me to do is to leave the judging up to God.
PRAYER: God, Your judgements are perfect. Free me from being judgemental towards others. I cannot trust my judgements, but I can trust Yours. Amen.
OBSERVATION: The judgements of God coming to pass results in worship of all nations. We normally don't think of judgement in this way -- as cause for worship. Judgement normally has negative connotations. If someone is judgemental it is not considered a good thing.
If you picture a courtroom after a long trial and everyone is waiting with eager anticipation. All the evidence is in and the case has been made. everyone waits for the judgement. When the judge read the judgement a cry goes out from everyone there. When the judgement is right, the innocent or the victims cry out in relief and vindication, and the guilty cry out in final desperation. When the verdict is wrong, the cry is a cry of injustice.
God's judgement is always right. His final judgement will result in glory and praise.
APPLICATION: Only God's judgement is perfect. If 'judgemental' means an unfair bias or judging unfairly without having all the information, then God could never be judgemental. But I can.
I can be judgemental. I am not God. I don't have all the information. I don't have judgement authority. I am not judge. God's judgement will be perfect and result in praise. Mine will not. The smartest thing for me to do is to leave the judging up to God.
- Release any judgemental attitude I have against anyone else.
- Remember: I don't have all the information and I can be biased.
- Praise God for His perfect judgements!
PRAYER: God, Your judgements are perfect. Free me from being judgemental towards others. I cannot trust my judgements, but I can trust Yours. Amen.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
A Great Guide
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 48:14 For this is God, Our God forever and ever; He will be our guide Even to death.
OBSERVATION: God is my guide, just as He was the psalmist's guide. He is a guide through all life and even guide into death -- a death guide.
A guide is someone who knows the way and can show it to you. A tour guide points out the places of interest along the way. A guide is far better than a map, because a guide is personal. A map is impersonal. A map can be misread, but a guide keeps you from going the wrong direction (like a guide on a piece of machinery).
A guide through Israel may not be good as a guide to Paris, unless the guide has been to both places and is acquainted with both. A guide for life may not be a good guide for death, unless the guide has been to both places. Jesus is the perfect guide for life and for death.
APPLICATION: Having a guide for life and for death brings a great sense of peace. It doesn't mean that I won't face death, but I won't face it alone. David said, "though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for thou art with me." He was speaking of a guide.
How great will it be, not just to see the wonders of heaven -- the crystal sea, the tree of life, God's throne -- but to have Jesus as my guide!
I can trust His guidance. I can have peace in His guidance, in life and in death.
PRAYER: Jesus, I receive You as my guide. I welcome Your direction. I submit to Your correction. I desire to go Your way and learn all that You have to show me. Amen.
OBSERVATION: God is my guide, just as He was the psalmist's guide. He is a guide through all life and even guide into death -- a death guide.
A guide is someone who knows the way and can show it to you. A tour guide points out the places of interest along the way. A guide is far better than a map, because a guide is personal. A map is impersonal. A map can be misread, but a guide keeps you from going the wrong direction (like a guide on a piece of machinery).
A guide through Israel may not be good as a guide to Paris, unless the guide has been to both places and is acquainted with both. A guide for life may not be a good guide for death, unless the guide has been to both places. Jesus is the perfect guide for life and for death.
APPLICATION: Having a guide for life and for death brings a great sense of peace. It doesn't mean that I won't face death, but I won't face it alone. David said, "though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for thou art with me." He was speaking of a guide.
How great will it be, not just to see the wonders of heaven -- the crystal sea, the tree of life, God's throne -- but to have Jesus as my guide!
I can trust His guidance. I can have peace in His guidance, in life and in death.
PRAYER: Jesus, I receive You as my guide. I welcome Your direction. I submit to Your correction. I desire to go Your way and learn all that You have to show me. Amen.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Choice for Chains
SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 40:4 And now look, I free you this day from the chains that were on your hand. If it seems good to you to come with me to Babylon, come, and I will look after you. But if it seems wrong for you to come with me to Babylon, remain here. See, all the land is before you; wherever it seems good and convenient for you to go, go there."
OBSERVATION: Jeremiah was treated quite differently from the others who were taken from Jerusalem. Some were killed. Some were taken into captivity to serve the king of Babylon. Others (the poor) were left behind with a third-rate king to work the land and defend it, to face the dangers there. All had the decision made for them.
Jeremiah was different.
Jeremiah had the chains removed from his hands. he would not be led to some destination beyond his will. He was given assurances of 'the good life' if he continued on to Babylon. He was also given full opportunity to go back to those who were left behind. Like Moses, Jeremiah chose to work with the people of God over the pleasures in Babylon.
APPLICATION: What special treatment that Jeremiah was given! All because he had faithfully served the Lord. The chains came off and he was given a choice.
That's what Jesus has done for me and for all of us. The chains are off. he came to set the captive free. he came to give us a choice.
PRAYER: Jesus, You have dealt with me far better than I deserve. I use the choice that You have given to me to chose You. Fill me with Your Spirit today that I might live for You, with all my choices. Amen.
OBSERVATION: Jeremiah was treated quite differently from the others who were taken from Jerusalem. Some were killed. Some were taken into captivity to serve the king of Babylon. Others (the poor) were left behind with a third-rate king to work the land and defend it, to face the dangers there. All had the decision made for them.
Jeremiah was different.
Jeremiah had the chains removed from his hands. he would not be led to some destination beyond his will. He was given assurances of 'the good life' if he continued on to Babylon. He was also given full opportunity to go back to those who were left behind. Like Moses, Jeremiah chose to work with the people of God over the pleasures in Babylon.
APPLICATION: What special treatment that Jeremiah was given! All because he had faithfully served the Lord. The chains came off and he was given a choice.
That's what Jesus has done for me and for all of us. The chains are off. he came to set the captive free. he came to give us a choice.
- Choose His gift of eternal life or reject it.
- Choose to be filled with His Holy Spirit or be filled with myself.
- Choose to live His way -- by faith according to His word -- or my way.
PRAYER: Jesus, You have dealt with me far better than I deserve. I use the choice that You have given to me to chose You. Fill me with Your Spirit today that I might live for You, with all my choices. Amen.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Let Me Finish
SCRIPTURE: Revelation 11:7 When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them.
OBSERVATION: Timing is everything! Notice that the beast is only able to defeat them "when they finish their testimony." When their purpose is done, that's when they are overcome -- not before. It reminds me of the unstoppable destiny of God's people and also the importance of testimony.
What seems more important than anything in this passage is the testimony of those two witnesses. No one could stop it, not even the beast. Once it was accomplished they were taken to heaven.
This life is all about testimony. I have a friend who has said about someone who wasn't exactly following the Lord, "They're working on their testimony." Life before knowing Jesus is building a testimony for His grace to work through. Life after Jesus is sharing that testimony of His grace (while, of course, we continue to build more testimony).
No one can stop my testimony. They can try to explain away creation, try to discredit the Bible and debate points of doctrine, but they can't eliminate my testimony. "I once was blind but now I see. My life has been radically altered, and yours can too" is the message of my testimony and many others just like me. I will continue on this earth until God decides I have finished my testimony. Then I will go to be with Him. You just can't beat that.
APPLICATION: Testify! Every chance I get, share from my life about Jesus and what He has done for me. Testimony is not just with words. Unselfish actions testify of Jesus' change in my life.
PRAYER: Lord, be honored through my life. Be seen through my life. May my life be a living gospel, the story of Jesus' life in me. Amen.
OBSERVATION: Timing is everything! Notice that the beast is only able to defeat them "when they finish their testimony." When their purpose is done, that's when they are overcome -- not before. It reminds me of the unstoppable destiny of God's people and also the importance of testimony.
What seems more important than anything in this passage is the testimony of those two witnesses. No one could stop it, not even the beast. Once it was accomplished they were taken to heaven.
This life is all about testimony. I have a friend who has said about someone who wasn't exactly following the Lord, "They're working on their testimony." Life before knowing Jesus is building a testimony for His grace to work through. Life after Jesus is sharing that testimony of His grace (while, of course, we continue to build more testimony).
No one can stop my testimony. They can try to explain away creation, try to discredit the Bible and debate points of doctrine, but they can't eliminate my testimony. "I once was blind but now I see. My life has been radically altered, and yours can too" is the message of my testimony and many others just like me. I will continue on this earth until God decides I have finished my testimony. Then I will go to be with Him. You just can't beat that.
APPLICATION: Testify! Every chance I get, share from my life about Jesus and what He has done for me. Testimony is not just with words. Unselfish actions testify of Jesus' change in my life.
PRAYER: Lord, be honored through my life. Be seen through my life. May my life be a living gospel, the story of Jesus' life in me. Amen.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
The End of the Mystery
SCRIPTURE: Revelation 10:7 but in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.
OBSERVATION: There will come a day, an instant in time that is already destined to come, when the days of creation will come to an end and the mystery of God will be finished. Things now unknown, shrouded in mystery, will become clear. All of creation together -- every philosopher, theologian and common man -- all together will share in one great "ah-ha!" moment. "Ah-ha! Now it all makes sense. Now we get it!" "We were dead wrong" some will finally realize. Others... "We were on the right track," or "It's even better than we imagined," or "It's more terrible than we imagined," or "We were hoping for this," or "We were afraid of this." But for all: "Deep down we knew all along."
The mystery of God will remain a mystery until He chooses to reveal it. The concealing serves His purpose and the revealing will also serve His purpose.
It is hard to imagine the day when the mystery is finished. When God, His workings, His intentions and His Person are all fully revealed. The purposes of creation will be accomplished and we will move from mystery into eternity. What an amazing day that will be.
APPLICATION: Until that time, mystery remains. Spiritual discernment, convictions and trust remain. I don't have all the answers and won't have all the answers. I've got to hear from God: to spend time with Him consistently and know His word intimately.
And, by the way, don't be a know-it-all. In a time of mystery, nobody knows as much as they think they know.
PRAYER: God, use Your mystery to complete Your work in me. Through mystery, prepare me for the certainty of eternity. I trust You to guide me through the mystery. Amen.
OBSERVATION: There will come a day, an instant in time that is already destined to come, when the days of creation will come to an end and the mystery of God will be finished. Things now unknown, shrouded in mystery, will become clear. All of creation together -- every philosopher, theologian and common man -- all together will share in one great "ah-ha!" moment. "Ah-ha! Now it all makes sense. Now we get it!" "We were dead wrong" some will finally realize. Others... "We were on the right track," or "It's even better than we imagined," or "It's more terrible than we imagined," or "We were hoping for this," or "We were afraid of this." But for all: "Deep down we knew all along."
The mystery of God will remain a mystery until He chooses to reveal it. The concealing serves His purpose and the revealing will also serve His purpose.
It is hard to imagine the day when the mystery is finished. When God, His workings, His intentions and His Person are all fully revealed. The purposes of creation will be accomplished and we will move from mystery into eternity. What an amazing day that will be.
APPLICATION: Until that time, mystery remains. Spiritual discernment, convictions and trust remain. I don't have all the answers and won't have all the answers. I've got to hear from God: to spend time with Him consistently and know His word intimately.
And, by the way, don't be a know-it-all. In a time of mystery, nobody knows as much as they think they know.
PRAYER: God, use Your mystery to complete Your work in me. Through mystery, prepare me for the certainty of eternity. I trust You to guide me through the mystery. Amen.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Filthiness and Lewdness
SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 24:13 In your filthiness is lewdness. Because I have cleansed you, and you were not cleansed, You will not be cleansed of your filthiness anymore, Till I have caused My fury to rest upon you.
OBSERVATION: God reveals an important distinction between filthiness and lewdness. Filthiness is stain from sin past: mistakes, errors, etc. God can clean filthiness. In fact, He has already done it ("I have cleansed You"). He has made provision for cleansing from the filthiness of sin. All who appropriate it are cleansed from filthiness. They are made clean from their sin.
Lewdness is quite different, though often hidden by filthiness. Filthiness is always present where there is lewdness, but lewdness is not always present where there is filthiness. According to this verse, the most simple distinction is this: When a person does not want to be cleansed from their filthiness, when they would rather remain filthy than be cleansed, that is lewdness. Not just the result of filthiness which happens to all, but the love of filthiness -- that is lewdness. Lewdness isn't cleansed because lewdness doesn't want to be cleansed.
APPLICATION: Beware of lewdness is all of its forms. Sometimes it is subtle, even religious. Lewdness can even be based on a presumption of God's grace. "Do not use liberty as a cloak for vice." God will cleanse filthiness. But lewdness -- the continuing desire to disobey God -- will not be cleansed.
Don't become calloused to sin. Don't be a presumptive sinner. Don't put a cloak of liberty over lewdness. Instead, continually be cleansed. "If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
PRAYER: Lord, give me a discerning spirit and a pure heart to sift out truth. Make me a courageous spokesman. Cleanse me and I will be whiter than snow. Amen.
OBSERVATION: God reveals an important distinction between filthiness and lewdness. Filthiness is stain from sin past: mistakes, errors, etc. God can clean filthiness. In fact, He has already done it ("I have cleansed You"). He has made provision for cleansing from the filthiness of sin. All who appropriate it are cleansed from filthiness. They are made clean from their sin.
Lewdness is quite different, though often hidden by filthiness. Filthiness is always present where there is lewdness, but lewdness is not always present where there is filthiness. According to this verse, the most simple distinction is this: When a person does not want to be cleansed from their filthiness, when they would rather remain filthy than be cleansed, that is lewdness. Not just the result of filthiness which happens to all, but the love of filthiness -- that is lewdness. Lewdness isn't cleansed because lewdness doesn't want to be cleansed.
APPLICATION: Beware of lewdness is all of its forms. Sometimes it is subtle, even religious. Lewdness can even be based on a presumption of God's grace. "Do not use liberty as a cloak for vice." God will cleanse filthiness. But lewdness -- the continuing desire to disobey God -- will not be cleansed.
Don't become calloused to sin. Don't be a presumptive sinner. Don't put a cloak of liberty over lewdness. Instead, continually be cleansed. "If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
PRAYER: Lord, give me a discerning spirit and a pure heart to sift out truth. Make me a courageous spokesman. Cleanse me and I will be whiter than snow. Amen.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Judgments for Life
SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 20:13 They did not walk in My statutes; they despised My judgments, ‘which, if a man does, he shall live by them’...
OBSERVATION: It seems to me that we have to keep learning this lesson over and over-- that God's commands and judgements are for life. Those who do them will really live and find freedom. They are for our own good.
We keep thinking we need to crawl out from under God's oppressive rules and His heavy thumb. The opposite is true. His hand is protection and life. Outside of His care is oppression and death.
APPLICATION: Do I see God's laws as regulations imposed on me, or as revealed gems fro greater blessing. I am fortunate to have such knowledge!
PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your truth. Sometimes they may be difficult to follow but Your laws are always for my good.
OBSERVATION: It seems to me that we have to keep learning this lesson over and over-- that God's commands and judgements are for life. Those who do them will really live and find freedom. They are for our own good.
We keep thinking we need to crawl out from under God's oppressive rules and His heavy thumb. The opposite is true. His hand is protection and life. Outside of His care is oppression and death.
APPLICATION: Do I see God's laws as regulations imposed on me, or as revealed gems fro greater blessing. I am fortunate to have such knowledge!
PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your truth. Sometimes they may be difficult to follow but Your laws are always for my good.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
The Scavenger of Hell
SCRIPTURE: Revelation 6:8 So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him. And power was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth.
OBSERVATION: In this verse, death is depicted as a rider on a horse. The horse is pale, which is also the description of someone who has given in to death -- pale or ashen. it is a visible indication that life is gone. When blood ceases to course through the body, which gives life to every part of the body, that red/rosy/flush look is gone, replaced by a pale appearance. That is the description of the horse that death rides on. It is very fitting.
Hell follows along after death. Hell hopes to swallow up all of those that death captures. Like an opportunistic scavenger following after a mighty predator hoping to fill itself with the left-overs, Hell is a scavenger. Hell can only take who death conquers. Hell has an insatiable appetite.
All will face death in some from or another. Not all will face Hell. Death and Hell are not synonymous. They are not two names for one rider, but two separate and distinct realities.
Jesus said, "Upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hell will not prevail against it." The 'gates' are the judgment centers for a city. The judgments or accusations against those in His church will not prevail.
APPLICATION: I do not have to fear Death or Hell. I don't have to fear death because it is not an enemy. Those who trust in Jesus know that Death is separation from this world, an entrance into our real home. I don't have to fear Hell because it has no power or claim on me. That claim was broken by Jesus' blood. As a scavenger has no legitimate or rightful claim, Hell has no rightful claim on me.
PRAYER: Jesus, You have run off the scavenger of Hell. I can live in confidence because of Your gift. I can live in peace because of Your grace. I don't have to fear Death or Hell. I praise You. Amen.
OBSERVATION: In this verse, death is depicted as a rider on a horse. The horse is pale, which is also the description of someone who has given in to death -- pale or ashen. it is a visible indication that life is gone. When blood ceases to course through the body, which gives life to every part of the body, that red/rosy/flush look is gone, replaced by a pale appearance. That is the description of the horse that death rides on. It is very fitting.
Hell follows along after death. Hell hopes to swallow up all of those that death captures. Like an opportunistic scavenger following after a mighty predator hoping to fill itself with the left-overs, Hell is a scavenger. Hell can only take who death conquers. Hell has an insatiable appetite.
All will face death in some from or another. Not all will face Hell. Death and Hell are not synonymous. They are not two names for one rider, but two separate and distinct realities.
Jesus said, "Upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hell will not prevail against it." The 'gates' are the judgment centers for a city. The judgments or accusations against those in His church will not prevail.
APPLICATION: I do not have to fear Death or Hell. I don't have to fear death because it is not an enemy. Those who trust in Jesus know that Death is separation from this world, an entrance into our real home. I don't have to fear Hell because it has no power or claim on me. That claim was broken by Jesus' blood. As a scavenger has no legitimate or rightful claim, Hell has no rightful claim on me.
PRAYER: Jesus, You have run off the scavenger of Hell. I can live in confidence because of Your gift. I can live in peace because of Your grace. I don't have to fear Death or Hell. I praise You. Amen.
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