The Best Way; The Perfect Way; God's Way.

Psalm 18:30 As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.

Who do we turn to for advice, and guidance, when times become difficult? For King David, his Guide, and Protector, was God and His Word. This verse is part of a Psalm of praise to the Lord for delivering David from his enemies. The truth is that our God is perfect in all His ways. We may not always understand His ways, and what He allows in our life (or the life of our loved ones), but the fact is that God never makes a mistake. Sadly, we, with our carnal minds, will question God's ways, and choose to follow our own wisdom, and logic, only to make situations worse. We, as born again believers, have an advantage over those who do not know Jesus (those who have not called upon Him or trusted Him for eternal life), because we have the Holy Spirit in us to guide us, and help us understand the truths, and principles, in God's Word, that we can use to help us manuever life; while having the peace of God, no matter what we are going through. Regardless of what we experience, and what God allows, if we trust God, and His unfailing Word, we will always be under the wings of His protection. The bottom line is that without God's guidance, His Word, and His protection, there is not one of us that would survive in this world without completely breaking down. Let us not ignore our God. Instead, let us seek after Him daily, not just when things go bad, but even now while things are peaceful. There is a time for all things, and the day will come when our life may be disrupted by challenging circumstances. Are we ready? Our God is perfect, in every way. His Word will never fail us, and the best place to be when the enemy shows up is standing behind our Lord, and Savior, who will always go before us, and fight on our behalf.

Be of Good Cheer!

Verse of the day: John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

God has made, and fulfilled, many promises. The majority of those promises we enjoy claiming, in order to have peace of mind. Well, this verse also contains a promise; one we would rather not claim. In this world we will have tribulation. However, how grateful we can be for this promise, because it is two-fold. Jesus doesn't just tell us of the troubles we will have in this lifetime, but He first promises peace. The kind of peace that can only come from being a born again believer. The peace that exists only when we call upon Him, and become a part of God's family. The peace that the Bible describes as "the peace that passes all understanding"! When we belong to God, and we choose to live according to the Scriptures, we will face ridicule. People will mock us, call us crazy, and criticize us, when we do good to others, when we choose to live right. They will call us fools. Family, and friends, may even forsake us, and turn their backs on us. The enemy, the devil, will use all of that to try and convince us that our choice to follow Jesus was a big mistake. However, it is during the toughest of times that God will show us the strength of His peace. Although the storms may rage against us, we will not be shaken. If we trust the Lord, and hold on to the peace He gives us (knowing, with confidence, that He is with us) the world will marvel at us, and many (even those who mocked us) will desire to have what we have, giving us then the opportunity to tell them about Jesus, the Prince of Peace. So, today, regardless of what we face, instead of focusing on the problem, let us hold on to the peace that Jesus promised we would have, even in the midst of difficulties; knowing that whatever He allows in our life, He will go through it with us, and provide us the peace, joy, and strength, we will need.

Why do you follow?

Verse of the day: John 2:23-24 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did. But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men,

God tells us in His Word, that whosoever calls upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved (Romans). So, if we call upon Jesus, and receive Him, by faith, we will be saved. If that is what these people in Jerusalem did, why did He not commit Himself to them? Simple. If we read carefully, we will see that their motives were not pure. They were not sincere in their belief. They believed, not by faith, but because of what they saw Him do. Their desire to follow Jesus was selfishly motivated. Jesus knew their hearts, and therefore did not commit Himself to them. It is easy to fool others into thinking that we have a relationship with Jesus that is pure. However, He knows ours hearts, and its intentions. He knows if we are truly born again, and following Him simply because we believe He is Savior and Lord. He also knows when we are just playing "Christian". The truth of the matter is that one way or another our motives will show eventually. When things go wrong, and life seems to go bad, a superficial relationship will reveal itself because the person will walk away from God. On the flip side, there are those who will walk away once they receive whatever it was they were seeking; such as healing from a sickness, a new job or promotion, etc. So today I ask you, "Why are you following Jesus?" Are you following Him just because He is Jesus or because you are looking for Him to do something for you? Will you still follow Him, even if He doesn't give you what you are looking for? Every day we must examine ourself, and ask God to show us what is in our hearts, so that we can make sure we are following Jesus with the right intentions, and motives. He died for us, to give us eternal life. If He chooses to give us nothing else, He has given us more than we deserve. So, if that was all we gained, would we still follow Him? If He did not give us any of the earthly things we sometimes pursue, would we still seek Him? I pray that following Him, for us, would be as unconditional as His love is for us. Remember, He sees beyond what we appear to be on the outside. He sees the heart.

Give God the Eraser

2 Samuel 7:22 Therefore You are great, O Lord God. For there is none like You, nor is there any God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears.

How do we handle those moments when God chooses to change our plans? How do we handle disappointment? Those moments when we are so sure that "this is definitely what God wants me to do"? Do we get upset, bitter, or continue to insist in finding a way to make our plan(s) work? Today's verse is King David's amazing response to being told that he would not go through with building a temple for God (something David found to be a great honor). His response, when Nathan, the prophet, broke the news to him, was to immediately praise God. Why? Because God revealed to King David that He had a greater plan. His (God's) plan was to establish a dynasty through King David's son, Solomon. What an amazing act of grace, to establish an everlasting kingdom through the lineage of the son who was born to Bathsheba, the woman whom David had an affair with, and whose husband he had murdered, to cover up his sin. Yet, while King David had his plan to build God a temple (which to him was a great plan); God had a much greater plan for the lineage of King David. A lineage which would be that of Jesus, our Savior! How often are our plans, and expectations, disappointed? How often do we become upset, and complain, because things didn't work out the way WE planned? How often do we, like David, fail to wait for an answer from the Lord, before we proceed with our life's plan? David sought the prophet's guidance, and received a "go ahead", but then GOD corrected Nathan, and sent him to break the news to King David. Let us learn from his reaction. Instead of moping around, complaining, and scheming about how to do it anyway; he immediately went before God, worshipped Him, praised Him, and thanked Him for having a greater plan for his life, and his family. Our plans, for our life, are tiny, and short sighted, in comparison to what God has in store for us. So if God changes our "great plans", let us worship Him, praise Him, and thank Him for how great He is, and for how much greater His plan is for our life, and service, to Him.

Unforgotten Reward

Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

Our God is righteous. Always. I just wanted to get that out there, up front. He never fails to keep His Word. Therefore, if He has promised us that He will do something, He will. With that said, He is certainly not slack to fulfill His promise to reward us for our good works. Let us remember, however, that our good works should be the result of our faith, and gratitude, for what Jesus did for us in giving His life for us. He especially holds to high esteem those good works done for the sake of other born again believers. The promise to reward us originated with God Himself, and not us. Therefore, He will not fail to carry it out. Sadly, we, in this technological age, have become very impatient. In an age where everything happens in the click of a button, we want everything to happen "yesterday". So rather than be motivated by the promise of rewards to come, we have settled for doing good when it yields instant reward; such as the "pat on the back", immediate recognition, or the return of a favor. As followers of Jesus, many have lost the ability to simply be patient, and wait on God's reward, according to His timing, and promise. God is Debtor to no man, and therefore, He will reward us, in due time, for our faithfulness in doing good toward the brethren. Whatever opportunity presents itself for us to do good; whether or not others know it or see it, is of little or no importance. What matters is that God sees it, and He is the Rewarder of those who do good. Finally, do not do good on the basis of whether or not it is convenient. We are called to do good for all, whether convenient or regardless of whether or not we even like the recipient of that good work. Why? Because regardless of whether or not we like the person (saved or unsaved), we are called to love others, even our enemies. So, today, and going forward, do good to others, especially those we call our brothers, and sisters; because it pleases God, and He will eventually reward us, in His way, and in His time. We may even have to wait until we see Him again. But what does that matter? Our reward is promised, and secure, because God is the Rewarder.

Loving Rebuke

Proverbs 27:5-6 Open rebuke is better Than love carefully concealed. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

This piece of advice is one that some may find difficult to follow; especially for those of us who do not like confrontation. However, it is the one action that will demonstrate how much we love, and care for, a friend(s). The best guidelines I can give for approaching a friend about a matter that is difficult to address is to first make sure that you go to the person one on one, and not gossip to others about it (being open does not mean telling a fault for others to hear; Matthew 18). Next, we should be careful to speak the truth, in love, and humility (not being mean spirited, demeaning, and checking ourselves first for our own faults; Ephesians 4, and Galatians 6). A true friend will be honest about a situation or matter that could end up being harmful or unprofitable. Too often we are afraid to speak up because the person may get offended. However, I often find that a person is more offended, and hurt, when we say nothing, and may see our lack of honesty, and willingness to say something, as a sign that we really are not a friend, and do not really care. Stop, and think for a moment. If you saw your enemy heading down a path that was harmful to them, would you stop them, and attempt to turn them around? Well, if we are honest with ourselves, the answer is no. Why? Because it would be the best way to get at them, and see them destroyed. When we fail to lovingly, and privately, confront a friend about a matter that could harm them or a loved one, that is exactly what we are doing by allowing them to continue down a destructive path. A real friend is just that, real. We ought to always look out for, and desire the best for, our friend(s). That means that we must be willing to do the hard stuff, and not just the fun stuff. By the way, we must also be willing to hear, and receive, loving rebuke from our friend(s), and realize that if we have a friend(s) that is willing to be honest with us, even if it hurts our feelings or injures our pride, we have a great friend(s). Bottom line is that we must be willing to be the friend that lovingly confronts, AND the friend that is confronted. Oh yes, and as born again believers, the best way to confront one another, in love, is to confront one another with God's truth (not our own truth or preference). Better to be rebuked by a true friend, than to be kissed on the cheek by a Judas.

The Christian Zombie

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

The Christian zombie. Not exactly the same type of zombie we see on television these days. The Christian zombie is dead, yet has life more abundant. We, as born again believers, because of God's great mercy, do not get what we deserve, which is eternal condemnation. Our gratitude for such forgiveness, and gracious act, should result in what is a reasonable end; complete dedication, submission, and service to our God. We are to present ourself as a living sacrifice. How is that possible, if a sacrifice is presented on the altar dead? Well, it is possible. We are to present ourself on God's altar, dead to the world, and its ways, and alive to God, holy (set aside for His purposes). We are acceptable before Him, not because of the works we do, but because of the Blood of Jesus. For this reason, because of our gratitude for such a sacrifice made for us, we are then to sacrifice ourself on the altar of service to God. Christian, this is the least we can do, seeing that we can never pay the debt that was paid for us on Calvary. Remember, a sacrifice, seeing that it is dead, does not decide how it will be used. With that said, we are to be in total submission to God, and He is the One who decides how we are going to be used, to fulfill His purposes. Ultimately, it is all for His glory, the One who sacrificed Himself for us first, and is now our Living Example of how we are to die to self, and the world, and live for God. 

Joy Restored

Psalm 51:12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.

Is it possible to lose our joy? Yes, but only if we choose to give it away. Our joy comes from having a relationship with God, thru Jesus. Upon receiving God's salvation, we receive the Holy Spirit, who indwells us, seals us, and keeps us, securing our salvation (so that we can never lose it, and cannot be taken from us). Just as our salvation cannot be taken from, so our joy cannot be taken (because God is the source). However, we can forfeit our joy by living a life of disobedience, and sin. This is where King David was when he wrote this Psalm. He had committed adultery with Bathsheba, and had her husband killed in order to cover up his sin. When he was confronted by God's servant, Nathan, David was truly broken, and mourned what he had done. This is the key to having our joy restored when we give it away to sin. God's desire in repentance is that we truly mourn, and confess, our sinful behavior; not because we got caught or because there is a good chance we're going to get caught, but because we know that sin is vile, wicked, and when we sin, we sin primarily against God, who despises sin. He demonstrated just how much He hates it when He poured His wrath on Jesus, for our sake. The salvation we have has been given to us freely, but it cost Jesus everything. The joy we have also comes to us freely, but again, came at a costly price. Let us not trample all over the grace, mercy, love, forgiveness, and joy, God has bestowed upon us. Let us stop, and consider, that this is exactly what we do when we choose sin over righteousness, and obedience. We hinder our relationship with God, and give away the joy of His salvation. If there is anything at all that is standing between us and God today, let us mourne it, forsake it, confess it, get right with God; and go back to having that joy, and peace that passes all understanding. 

We'll Never Stay Down

Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

How many of us enjoy losing a fight? Not sure about you, but I like to win. However, in order to win, it means I may have to take a few hits, as the opponent may not be easy to defeat. If I expect to have victory I need to know what my enemy's weakness is. More importantly, I need to recognize my own weakness. This is why it is of utmost importance for us, as born again believers, to recognize that our enemy, which is not flesh & blood, is stronger than we are, and we are weak, because of sin, and because of the desires of our flesh. Now, our enemies do have a weakness, and that weakness is their inability to stand against God. We are told that the devils believe that God exists (because they have seen Him), but they tremble, because they know His power. The Word of God tells us that if we resist the devil, he will flee. Well, how do we resist him? We put on the spiritual armor that is described for us in this chapter (I strongly suggest you read it, and commit it to memory). This Armor describes, and is, Jesus Christ. We must put off the old us, and put on the new, which is Christ. When we do that, we draw near to God, and God draws near to us. As we live a life of obedience, drawing strength from the Holy Spirit, and doing good (which takes tremendous strength, because we are strongly drawn toward the desire to do according to the lusts of our flesh), the result will be that the devils will flee from us because they know that a Christian who is obedient to God, and His Word, becomes unpredictable. They realize that they are, in fact, fighting against God, whom they fear, and will stand down; not because they are afraid of us, but because they know they can never defeat the Lord. Christian, today, pray, put on the armor of God, and stand not in your own strength, but in the strength of the Lord, and in the power of HIS might. Remember, if God be for us, who can be against us. No one! The enemy may knock us down, but the strength we have in Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit, will enable us to get back up, and into the fight, so that in Christ we may have the ultimate victory.

Real Sacrifice

Verse of the day: Psalms 116:1-2 I love the Lord, because He has heard My voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live.

There are many reasons to love God. Our greatest reason is simply that He is God. Nonetheless, we love Him only because He loved us first, as we are reminded in 1 John. The psalmist is expressing love because of deliverance of some sort. How much more should we praise God when we are delivered from trouble (regardless of what that might be)? It is truly overwhelming to think that our God, who is greater than all, Creator of all, has time, or even takes time, to answer the prayer(s) of someone like you or me. Like the writer, we ought to always be ready to go before the throne of God, not just to ask Him for something, but to praise Him. So often, we come to God with our shopping list of requests, but spend little time just going before Him to offer up the sacrifice of our tongue, which is praise, and thanksgiving. Praise, and thanksgiving, come easy when we know He has heard us (evidenced by an answered prayer). How much more wonderful is it when we have no evidence that He has heard, or is hearing our prayers, and we come before Him to worship Him with praise and thanksgiving? That is when it is truly sacrificial worship. By faith, we trust that God hears our every prayer, and in faith we wait for an answer. However, let us not wait to see the answer(s) before we begin to worship Him, express (and demonstrate) our love for Him. Let us rejoice in answered prayer, but let us praise Him, thank Him, and worship Him (with our lives, and the way we live), even while we wait to see the answer(s).

In His Presence

Psalm 16:8 I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

Can we say that we are always mindful of God's presence? If so, does our behavior reflect it? Whether in public, private, by day or by night, God is present. Does our life reflect that confidence, and reverence? Having someone at our right hand is having someone by us in a position of honor, and respect. It also means having someone by our side who will protect us. Do our words, attitude, actions, and deeds demonstrate to others that we honor, respect, and fear God? Does our confidence (in humility) communicate that we do not fear man or life itself, because we have, and serve, a God who is bigger than life itself? Do we stand firm in our beliefs, and do what is good, regardless of the persecution, and criticism, knowing that God will handle the consequences, and outcome, of truly following Him, and obeying Him? This is the kind of confidence, honor, and respect, King David was talking about when He wrote these words. Let us who call ourself Christian (born again believer) be purposely mindful of God's presence today. Let us not forget that His eyes are on us, and that He is always with us to not only guide us, but to also protect us. We are His ambassadors, His representatives. Let us represent Him with honor, respect, humility, and confidence, regardless of what others say about us as a result.

Short-term Prosperity

Psalm 73:26 My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Why do the wicked seem to prosper? This is the overwhelming theme of this Psalm. Sometimes we find ourselves being envious of those that have much in this world. The unsaved, wealthy, person who seems to have everything they want, and enjoy whatever in life they want to enjoy. They seem to live life with no real concerns. Well, like the Psalmist, we too must realize that in the end, the only thing that matters in this lifetime is a true relationship with, and dependence on, God. All that the unsaved enjoy is short-lived. We do not see them behind closed doors (the sorrows, and unrest, they experience). So often we hear about people who have fame, and fortune, but still commit suicide. Yet, it amazes me that some Christians still make gaining earthly riches a goal in their life here on earth. I am not saying that there aren't Christians that God allows to have riches. What I'm saying is that we need to learn how to be satisfied with whatever it is that God allows us to have or where He allows us to live or what life He allows us to live. All the riches that an unsaved person gains are worth nothing when they fall ill with a sickness that can end their life. All their riches are useless when they lose a loved one or they find themselves on the brink of death. For us, as born again believers, if we are focused on our relationship with God, and serving Him; no matter what happens, we ALWAYS have hope. Regardless of what God allows into our lives, the peace, and joy, we have, cannot be taken from us, unless we choose to focus our circumstances, and situation, rather than keep our eyes on Jesus. The bottom line is that no matter what the unsaved, and the wicked, gain here on earth, it is all worthless without Jesus, because in the end they will all give account to God, and ultimately end up condemned for all eternity. Is this what we, as God's children, should be envious of? I say that we focus our attention on Jesus, and be grateful to God for all He allows us to have, and those things He doesn't allow us to have. Either way, we are blessed, as long as we have a true relationship with Jesus, our strength, and our portion, in this life, and the next.

Most Valued Treasure

Verse of the day: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

What is your most valued treasure? For a born again follower of Jesus, that answer should be, the Word of God. Outside of our salvation (which can only come from God, through Jesus), and the down payment of the Holy Spirit indwelling us, our Bible, God's Word, is the most valuable tangible thing we possess. The Bible is the single most important Book we will ever own. So many people, even Christians, spend so much time, and money, on "self help" books, when the only Book we need is the Bible. I am not saying that we cannot read commentaries to help us get insight, and better understanding. What I am saying is that the Bible contains all the answers we need to live this life. It is God-breathed. Every word of it was inspired by God, via the Holy Spirit guiding the hands of those who God used to write the Scriptures. Because it comes from God, it is valuable (profitable). The Word of God teaches all we need to know, and believe, about God, who He is, this world, what it's about, our enemy(ies), who he is (they are), and so much more (doctrine). The Holy Spirit uses it to convict us (reproof), put us back on the right path (correction), and teaches us how to stay in that path (instruction). What we believe about God, life, good, and evil, will determine how we live this life, and how we make life altering decisions. So often our life ends up in shambles because we do what we deem best for us, and our families, rather than doing what God has told us is best. Sadly, this is often the result of someone not knowing what is written for us in the Bible or a refusal to obey what is written. So, today, dust off your Bible, and treat it like the treasure it is. It is the one single thing that will help us develop the kind of intimacy with God that too many lack, but yearn for.

The Fool Is Always Right...

Proverbs 12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise.

Have you met a person, or are you a person, who has to always have the final word on just about everything? You know the type. They are never wrong. Their way is always the right way. He/she refuses to listen to other people's advise, because, well, no one else can come up with a better way or idea? The Word of God calls that person a fool. A fool will use whatever means seems right in their own eyes to resolve a situation, regardless of what that might be. Sadly, there are too many Christians who operate this way. A child of God, a born again believer, should not be known as such. The wisest path for us to take, as God's people, is to seek out wise counsel. Do we have to heed to every piece of advice? No. However, we must recognize that we are not always right, and that there are other people that God has placed in our life that may be older and wiser or younger and wiser, who seek God, and have godly insight that we can benefit from. We may have the right answer in certain occasions, but we are human, and flawed. Too often we allow our pride to guide us, and drive us, only to end up having to deal with consequences that could have been avoided. The fact of the matter is that we ought to seek God's direction (prayer and the Bible), and any advice we receive should be filtered thru God's Word to be sure the advice is godly. The world always has an answer, but it is usually the wrong answer. God's ways are always right, and we ought to be people who seek godly advice, and be known as a person who gives godly advice. Anything short of that is foolish. So whatever the situation, let us put our pride aside, and prayerfully seek our Lord's guidance; for the Holy Spirit will never let us down, if we truly stop, listen, and obey, and realize that they are others who are also intimately connected to God, and His ways.

Everlasting Word

Verse of the day: Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

Many things in life come and go. Friendships, jobs, etc. Cars, and houses, get old, some are rebuilt or remodeled, while others are replaced, abandoned or demolished. Popularity, and status, come and go. Much of what we put value on is vanity, and generally does not last. All of it stays behind when we die; yet, many will sacrifice life, and relationships (family) to possess or attain it. This world, the heavens, and the earth, according to God's Word, will be destroyed by fire, and renewed. All as we know it will pass away. So, why do we put more value, and importance, on things that will not last, and have no eternal value? Our relationship with Jesus is eternal. His Word, its principles, and truths, will outlast all that we see around us, and is more valuable than any precious metal that exists. So many today (born again believers) are so easily deceived by false teachers, and often worry about the times we live in, because they spend little to no time reading, and studying, God's Word. There are many things that are coming, that none of us can stop from happening. There will be those, who even call themselves Christians, and pastors, who will take advantage of that for their own gain. We, as followers of Jesus, need to be able to recognize false teachers, and not be stressed over what is happening in the world today (because it already tells us what is going to happen). The only way to accomplish that, is to treasure the Word of God for what it is. It is the single most valuable thing we possess. It teaches us who our God is. It contains His truth, and is our guide for living. By it, we will learn how to gain treasure that will never perish, because it is treasure we will gain when we are finally with Him. The bottom line is that we must make the Word of God a priority in our life, as it is the only thing we possess that is of everlasting value (besides eternal life in Christ).

Fear of God

Verse of the day: Proverbs 9:10 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Fear of God. I'm afraid that is something not found or demonstrated much today. Funny thing is that even Satan has a degree of fear when it comes to obeying God. Think about that for a moment. As powerful as he is, when dealing with Job, the devil dared not cross the boundaries set by God (if you haven't read the Book of Job, today would be a good day to read it). Yet, we, as mere human beings, continually cross boundaries set by God. No fear. A person who is wise is a person who begins to fear God. That should start at the moment one accepts Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord. That wisdom is not just internal (repentance, love, and faith), but it shows itself in the way one lives in obedience, and fear (reverence), being careful to not offend God. Now, this wisdom also comes from a knowledge of who God is (not based on our own ideas, but based on the truth of God's Word); knowing our Triune God, and understanding how each Person of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) works in our life; teaching us, leading us, guiding us, growing us. Wisdom comes not only from knowing how God's truth works in our life, but applying that truth, and trusting God to deal with the consequences of living an obedient life. We, as born again believers, must be the living example of what wisdom looks like. If you have not started yet, begin today to make a concerted effort to know God, and the truth found in His Word. The more we learn about who God really is, the more we should be in awe, and the more we should seek to worship, and fear, Him.

Desert of Despair

Verse of the day: Psalm 63:1 [ Joy in the Fellowship of God ] [ A Psalm of David when he was in the wilderness of Judah. ] O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water.

This Psalm is attributed to King David, and may have taken place during one of the times he was forced to run for his life, when being pursued by King Saul or during the rebellion of his son, Absalom. There were times in David's life when, even though he was God's chosen king, he was forced to flee. Saul's jealousy raged against him, and he sought to kill David. Later in his life, and as a consequence for his sin with Bathsheba, David had to flee once again, because his son had rebelled against him, and tried to take his throne. King David was a man of God. Even God called him a man after God's own heart. Yet, he suffered many trials. Regardless of these trials, and persecutions, David did not doubt God's strength or ability to protect him, and see him through the difficult times. He continued to seek after God, thirst after Him, and worship Him. Today, when we find ourself in a desert of loneliness, anxiety, and frustration, our God is with us, fills the void, gives us strength, and is the Living Water we need when we thirst. He never forsakes us, and therefore, as His children, we must continue to worship Him, seek after Him, and trust Him completely to see us through. Like King David, let us find joy, peace, and complete satisfaction, in our God. Especially in those moments when we may find ourself forced to run to the wilderness; for our God is with us, even in the desolate places we sometimes find ourself. He promised to never leave us, nor forsake us.

Come and See

Verse of the day: John 1:39 He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour).

"Come and see." That was Jesus' response to two of the first disciples to follow after Him. Right from beginning Jesus was testing their faith, for they had asked Him where He was living, as they desired to be with Him, go where He was going, and stay where He was staying. In spite of Jesus not really answering their question, they chose to follow, not knowing where they were going or where they would end up. Often, that is how we are called to follow Jesus, without really knowing where we are going or where we'll end up. We don't always know the outcome or consequences for the things we choose under His guidance, and direction. He calls us to trust Him for the outcome of every situtaion He guides us through. He may even lead us to do something that goes completely against what everyone else would do or even agree with. However, living for God, living the truth, and truly following Jesus, is not going to always sit right with others. The bottom line is that following Jesus is never dull, if we are truly willing to follow. It will be the greatest challange of our life, as following Him is simple, but not always easy, because it requires faith, and trusting Him completely. Remember, we have a greater advantage over the disciples. They did not know where Jesus was taking them. For us, as born again believers, we at least know our destination...eternity in Heaven, with our Savior.

Would you like Bread with that?

Verse of the day: John 6:35 And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.

What is a good meal without good bread to tie it together? I cannot even imagine having a good pasta dish without bread. A cup of hot coffee without a buttered roll (like I had so many times growing up). Point being that there are many meals that are not completely unless you have some good bread to go with it. This what I think of when I think of the Bread of Life. Life without Jesus (the Bread of life) is not life at all. Both in this instance, and in chapter 4 (the Samaritan woman), those who sought the bread, and water, Jesus offered, only wanted it to satisfy an earthly, and selfish desire; when what He was offering them was the true Bread, and Water, that is eternal, Jesus Himself. Jesus made this statement, calling the people out on their selfish reasons for following Him. In chapter 2 of John, many followed, but only because they saw the miracles. In chapter 4, the Samaritan woman desired the water so that she wouldn't have to return to the well (avoiding others, because of her reputation), and here in chapter 6 Jesus had just recently fed the multitude using just a few loaves & fish. Sadly, too many today follow Jesus for the wrong reasons. Selfish reasons. Just like a good piece of bread completes a meal, Jesus is the only One who can complete life. When we eat of the Bread of life, and truly commit our life to Him, we will no longer hunger or thirst for the empty things this world offers (the empty calories). When we labor, by reading, studying, and serving Jesus faithfully, we will always be satisfied with whatever He chooses for our life. The Bread of life gives us just that, life, and life more abundantly. What are you hungering, and thirsting, after? If it is anything or anyone other than Jesus, then this one thing I know for sure; you are starving yourself. Eat of the only Bread that is truly satisfying, and you'll never hunger for anything or anyone else; and just like the feeding of the multitude, there is as much Bread as we want, and for as many as come to Him. So let's not be afraid or bashful to share this Bread with as many others as we can.

Threaten me with Heavenly Reward

Verse of the day: Matthew 5:11-12 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Jesus was called a Samaritan, a devil; told He was mad, mocked and reviled on the cross; yet, He never returned same. Yes, our Savior, the only Perfect Man to walk this earth, was mistreated, called names, made fun of, and falsely accused, because He was righteous, lived righteously, and refused to follow the ways of the world. He did not change the way He dressed or the way He talked. He did not use language that was unbecoming of the Gospel. He did none of these things to "fit in" or "win" people over for the sake of the Gospel. Instead, He lived the life that His Father sent Him here to live, and ultimately give His life, for our sake, in order to pay for our sins, and purchase for us eternal life. With all that said, let us stop, look in the mirror, and ask ourself, "How am I doing in comparison?" "Am I looking like the rest of the world, and compromising who I am supposed to be, just so that people won't talk about me, reject me, and say things about me that aren't true?" "Am I acting like the world, and deceiving myself into thinking that this is how I'll win them?" Well, if the answering to any or all of these is, "Yes", then something must change, right now. As born again believers, there are certain things we can do, that are not sinful to do (such as celebrating certain holidays or going to certain events, such as family gatherings, weddings, etc.) that we can partake in, and that can present opportunities to share Christ with family, and friends. However, we are called to live holy, and separated lives (meaning that we not behave as the world does). That means that our manner of behavior, our language, and how we treat others (regardless of who they are or what they have done to us) should be different than how the world does it. We are supposed to, as time goes on, become more and more like Jesus in who we are. Just as He suffered many things because of who He was, we too should expect the same, and be willing to suffer, if necessary, as He did, for His sake, and the sake of the Gospel. Ultimately, we will receive reward, in Heaven, that far exceeds anything that this world has to offer. Remember what Jesus' end was? After being received with cries of, "Hosanna!", He was later put to death with the cries of, "Crucify Him!" Yes, the very people whom we seek favor from, and deny our Savior for, may be the very people who betray us, hurt us, insult us, and forsake us. It is better to suffer for a short while, for Jesus sake, than to forfeit rewards that will last for eternity. Let us live for Jesus, and leave the consequences to Him. Not only will He reward us in Heaven, but He will never leave us nor forsake us here on earth.

Carry One Another's Burden

Verse of the day: Galatians 6:2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

In its context this verse reminds us that we ought to seriously stop, and consider, how we handle another brother/sister in Christ when they have stumbled in their walk with Jesus. If the Lord allows us to find out about another's sin, we are called to restore them (v.1). Did you catch that? I didn't say judge them, or condemn them. I said, restore them. There is a process by which we are to approach the sinning believer with humility, only after we have examined ourself, and realized that we too are sinners saved by grace. When we come to that realization, we are then to approach with a mindset to help, and to find a way to restore him/her, and help carry the burden of their failure; maybe through accountability or Bible study, together. We, as born again believer's would have greater success in our walk if we learned to encourage each other, rather than cut each other down, when we fall victim to sin, and our own flesh. This is not to say that we not call sin what it is. However, the Word of God is clear that the wrath of man does nothing, zero, to promote the righteousness of God. Yet, that seems to be the preferred method of believers when dealing with others that stumble in their walk. We are called to approach with a mindset of restoration, done in love (fulfilling the law of Christ), as pointed out in this verse. Verse 5 of this chapter ties this idea together nicely, as it reminds us that we too have our own burden to carry. It is supposed to serve as a reminder that we are not perfect, and just as our neighbor has their burden, we too have ours, and should be the last person to condemn or turn our back on someone else. For the day may, more than likely, come when we too will need help carrying our burden. The verses in this chapter (which would do us all well to read) are a reminder of our need for unity in the body of Christ, and how much we really need each other. Just as we are called to confess to one another, we are called to help one another, especially during our times of personal struggles. If we did this, we would have the opportunities (as stated in verse 10) to do good unto all men, especially those belonging to God's family. We would have less born again believer's who feel lonely, and abandoned, by the brethren. We would have believer's that would stand together, and not be afraid to confess their faults, their sins, knowing that instead of being received with a judgmental attitude, they'll be received in love, and with an attitude of restoration. The bottom line being that our enemy, the devils, would no longer be able to keep us in isolation, hiding our sin, and being silently, and privately, tormented, until we quietly fade away. Ever stop and wonder if that brother or sister we haven't seen or heard from in a while hasn't been seen because they are struggling with something they are too ashamed to talk about; mainly because of how it'll be received or how they will be treated? We are called to not just call sin what it is, but we are also called to love, restore, and strengthen one another, just as Christ does for each, and every single, one of us.

Live Free!

Verse of the day: Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

Freedom. True freedom. There is nothing like it. Now most people have this misunderstanding that freedom mean doing anything we want. However, doing anything we want brings both good, and bad, consequences. That is why a country that is truly free still has a set of laws in place. Wait. How is that freedom? Let me explain. Before Jesus came, and gave His life, as payment for our sins, we were prisoners to the law. Why? Because not one person alive, then, and even now, could keep all the law. Therefore, if we broke even one, we are guilty of all. When we call upon Jesus, and accept His free gift of eternal life, we are immediately declared "not guilty" before the Father, and the chain (bondage) of the Law is broken. We now have liberty from the Law, and sin, because of the blood of Jesus. We are free to choose life, and liberty, but we can also choose bondage. Wait. Who would choose bondage after being set free. Well, we would, and we do, each day, on two different levels. When we choose to set up a legalistic lifestyle filled with do's and don't's, we set up our jail cell. When we return to a life of sin, practicing the things we were saved from, we set up our prison house. So how do we live out, and enjoy, our liberty in Christ? Love. Stand fast in love. Love God with all that we are, and love our neighbor as ourself. When we truly love someone we avoid doing the things toward them that are hateful, and harmful. We do our best to avoid offenses, and instead do those things which are profitable, kind, and honoring to God. Even Jesus said that if we love Him, we'll keep His commandments. You see, when God commands us to do something or avoid doing the other, it is because what He commands us to do keeps us from being enslaved to the consequences of wicked actions. It keeps us from having to constantly look over our shoulders; and though it may not keep us from being persecuted by the world (because it hates God, and righteousness), it does keep us in a place of peace, joy, and contentment. That, my brothers, and sisters, is true liberty. When we choose obedience, and righteousness, voluntarily, because the love of Jesus is driving us; nothing will compare to that kind of liberty.

There is always an opportunity...

Verse of the day: Galatians 6:10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

How often is "as we have opportunity"? "As often as we can"; not "as often as we think". There is a difference. God will quite often provide us with more opportunities to do good than we are really willing to perform. Why? Because we allow certain factors to keep us from taking advantage of those opportunities. Such as, we may not l...ike the person. The timing may be inconvenient for our agenda at the moment. Maybe that person is the type of person who won't be able or may not want to return the favor. It could be that they are ungrateful. Maybe it's the last bit of whatever it is we have, and we might need it for ourself later. Whatever the reason, we sometimes find some way to convince ourself that we should hold back. Well, God tells us that we are to do good every chance we get, especially if it involves another born again believer. Even if we don't like them or get along with them. Yes, sadly, there are Christians that do not get along or like each other. Nonetheless, Jesus did tell us that the world will know that we belong to Him by the way we love each other. We are called to do good to others regardless of whether or not they are capable or even desire to do the same for us. Jesus was selfless in how He ministered, and healed, others. He even died for those who still reject Him even today. He expects the same from us, especially when it comes to the family of God. We are called to sacrifice for the sake of others, and even told to do good to those who do evil to us. We are to love, and pray for, our enemies, and those who use us. Yes, that is correct. We are to do good, even in moments when it is contrary to what our flesh desires. Let us take up our cross today. Let us sacrifice self to do good to others. Let us purposely seek out opportunities to do good, especially if the recipient is a brother/sister in Christ.