Job 36:28-30
26 Yet when I hoped for good, evil came;
when I looked for light, then came darkness
27 The churning inside me never stops;
days of suffering confront me.
28 I go about blackened, but not by the sun;
I stand up in the assembly and cry for help.
I know so many people believe that just because you're a Christian, you don't suffer. That is so not true! Although I'm not exactly sure how you would describe Job other than a righteous man, he certainly was a grieving person. He went through a multitude of challenges: he lost his family, wealth, and he had poor health.
I don't think that there is one single reason why people suffer. While suffering can come from sin or the devil, it doesn't have to originate from there. God uses our suffering for the better many times.
Have you ever felt like you were in a fog because of everything that was happening? It doesn't make it any easier when you have the idea that Christians don't suffer either. In fact, to some, it comes as a surprise. The important thing to remember is, even though it may sound unfair, it isn't; we learn countless lessons because of the trials we are faced with. God wants us to turn to him. If nothing was wrong, we would have all the more reason not to go to God. We do this enough as it is.
Be careful what you think God has promised. You may have heard it from someone, but when all else fails go to the Bible for proof. Next week, I'll be talking about what God does promise: suffering (yes, I'm going to elaborate more about this Monday), necessities, sufficient grace, everlasting love, victory over death, and eternal life.
Happy end of the week and end of the month!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
False Promises: Spouses.
1 Corinthians 7:1-2
1 Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good for a man not to marry. 2 But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband.
Based on the scripture above, does God promise us a spouse? Absolutely not! Many people have the misconception that everyone is meant to have someone to live with for the rest of their life. I'm not saying that you're sinning if you think that God has the perfect match for you, I'm just saying that this perspective could come with consequences. For example, if you're waiting on God to tell you who the perfect someone is, that could take many years. Everyone has flaws right?
As far as I know, Adam was the only one who woke up and had the ideal and perfect woman, Eve, sitting next to him. God has not done that for anyone else. It is a man's responsibility to find their wife.
It makes sense that God didn't make such a promise because of the free will that he offers us. If he establishes a marriage between two people and one marries someone else, then what is that other person supposed to do? Clearly, free will allows one to marry and commit to someone at their own discretion. Suppose that if one's spouse dies, are they allowed to re-marry? Well, under the standard that many people believe God sets, then no, they wouldn't be able to re-marry because it's outside of their pre-destined marriage.
Just remember that God grants us with the wisdom to make good decisions about choosing a spouse. The only thing that God desires is that your spouse has the same beliefs as you, which seems fair and reasonable. God will introduce people on and off in our life, but in the end it's our decision. Of course God knows, but it's not our job to figure out what he knows. Once a couple marries, then that's where God comes into the picture and is a part of God's will together as one flesh.
I guess the bottom line is that we have to understand God's role in our life and distinguish the difference between a romance novel and faith. A romance novel says that God sends the perfect someone to your door with a ring and flowers. While faith, which is a verb (active), is the trust that one has while on the quest for their spouse asking God every step of the way if they made the right decision.
Today's post was a little bit different. The point is to underline any false promises that may be associated with God. For all those who are married out there, does this make sense? Oh, and congratulations, may you live in love with God and one another.
1 Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good for a man not to marry. 2 But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband.
Based on the scripture above, does God promise us a spouse? Absolutely not! Many people have the misconception that everyone is meant to have someone to live with for the rest of their life. I'm not saying that you're sinning if you think that God has the perfect match for you, I'm just saying that this perspective could come with consequences. For example, if you're waiting on God to tell you who the perfect someone is, that could take many years. Everyone has flaws right?
As far as I know, Adam was the only one who woke up and had the ideal and perfect woman, Eve, sitting next to him. God has not done that for anyone else. It is a man's responsibility to find their wife.
It makes sense that God didn't make such a promise because of the free will that he offers us. If he establishes a marriage between two people and one marries someone else, then what is that other person supposed to do? Clearly, free will allows one to marry and commit to someone at their own discretion. Suppose that if one's spouse dies, are they allowed to re-marry? Well, under the standard that many people believe God sets, then no, they wouldn't be able to re-marry because it's outside of their pre-destined marriage.
Just remember that God grants us with the wisdom to make good decisions about choosing a spouse. The only thing that God desires is that your spouse has the same beliefs as you, which seems fair and reasonable. God will introduce people on and off in our life, but in the end it's our decision. Of course God knows, but it's not our job to figure out what he knows. Once a couple marries, then that's where God comes into the picture and is a part of God's will together as one flesh.
I guess the bottom line is that we have to understand God's role in our life and distinguish the difference between a romance novel and faith. A romance novel says that God sends the perfect someone to your door with a ring and flowers. While faith, which is a verb (active), is the trust that one has while on the quest for their spouse asking God every step of the way if they made the right decision.
Today's post was a little bit different. The point is to underline any false promises that may be associated with God. For all those who are married out there, does this make sense? Oh, and congratulations, may you live in love with God and one another.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
False Promises: Tomorrow.
Proverbs 27:1
1 Do not boast about tomorrow,
for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
Have you ever heard someone say, "What you're doing now will determine your future" or "There's always tomorrow." While that's typically true, we just never know. I think sometimes we get stuck in the notion that we are guaranteed tomorrow. Maybe it's just that we say it out of comfort or you say it to a friend for comfort. We all do it. However, is that really what God promises?
Not really. I have never read that anywhere in the Bible. In fact, this Proverb tells us the opposite: "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth." Maybe it's just that we just take our time for granted.
So let's break it down: Tomorrow may not come. We may not wake up to the sunrise. What we have today, could be gone tomorrow. Tomorrow something could happen to change your life forever and it's beyond all human control.
Okay, so you're probably thinking what should we do with all this seemingly discouraging news? Certainly, don't fret. It's all in God's hands. God holds tomorrow and our future in his hands. This secures everything. We're safe and protected and in the arms of God. While it may not go as planned, God will determine the end. The best part is that we can share victory, comfort, and satisfaction in the end with God.
"In My Arms" by Plumb is a song that I want to share with you today.
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
1 Do not boast about tomorrow,
for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
Have you ever heard someone say, "What you're doing now will determine your future" or "There's always tomorrow." While that's typically true, we just never know. I think sometimes we get stuck in the notion that we are guaranteed tomorrow. Maybe it's just that we say it out of comfort or you say it to a friend for comfort. We all do it. However, is that really what God promises?
Not really. I have never read that anywhere in the Bible. In fact, this Proverb tells us the opposite: "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth." Maybe it's just that we just take our time for granted.
So let's break it down: Tomorrow may not come. We may not wake up to the sunrise. What we have today, could be gone tomorrow. Tomorrow something could happen to change your life forever and it's beyond all human control.
Okay, so you're probably thinking what should we do with all this seemingly discouraging news? Certainly, don't fret. It's all in God's hands. God holds tomorrow and our future in his hands. This secures everything. We're safe and protected and in the arms of God. While it may not go as planned, God will determine the end. The best part is that we can share victory, comfort, and satisfaction in the end with God.
"In My Arms" by Plumb is a song that I want to share with you today.
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Establishing the Purpose.
2 Timothy 1:9
9 who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,
Typically when you initiate a task or a project it's because you have a fundamental purpose in mind. You may start a non-profit organization to make dental supplies a reality. I know a classmate in high school who began an organization called S.M.I.L.E. (Smiling Makes It a Little Easier). The aim of this organization was to gather dental supplies such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss from dentist offices and through fundraising; then, the supplies would be sent to children in third world countries. It even was a school-wide fundraiser for a few weeks in which the National Honor Society helped coordinate. We worked together to make a difference. Once the items were collected, they were shipped overseas. The only way this was possible was if there were goals and a firm purpose in place. That sure was the case.
The lesson to keep in mind is that staying true to God's calling is vital. If you don't act with a graceful and honest attitude what good will that do? You're just going to lose focus in the long run at the very least. In the same way, you have to be enthusiastic and engaged in whatever it is you're seeking. If you just do something because it's righteous, that's not being truthful based on your interests.
Moreover, we're saved from grace and not works. God tells us over and over again he's not impressed with our good deeds. He does care about whether or not we live our life with faith though. All in all, we're not saved by what we do. We're saved by what God has done - you know, sacrificing his Son and loving us. It is an honor to God when we express our faith, such as trusting him at all times. That's good too because if it was all about works, it would be one chaotic contest. Still, do good deeds, but perhaps look at in a different way; instead of asking "what can I do next?" acknowledge the desire you have for working in the kingdom and let God guide you.
Here's a video that has a fantastic message: "Grace Changes Everything" by Jamie Slocum. I must admit I'm not too fond of the music.
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
9 who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,
Typically when you initiate a task or a project it's because you have a fundamental purpose in mind. You may start a non-profit organization to make dental supplies a reality. I know a classmate in high school who began an organization called S.M.I.L.E. (Smiling Makes It a Little Easier). The aim of this organization was to gather dental supplies such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss from dentist offices and through fundraising; then, the supplies would be sent to children in third world countries. It even was a school-wide fundraiser for a few weeks in which the National Honor Society helped coordinate. We worked together to make a difference. Once the items were collected, they were shipped overseas. The only way this was possible was if there were goals and a firm purpose in place. That sure was the case.
The lesson to keep in mind is that staying true to God's calling is vital. If you don't act with a graceful and honest attitude what good will that do? You're just going to lose focus in the long run at the very least. In the same way, you have to be enthusiastic and engaged in whatever it is you're seeking. If you just do something because it's righteous, that's not being truthful based on your interests.
Moreover, we're saved from grace and not works. God tells us over and over again he's not impressed with our good deeds. He does care about whether or not we live our life with faith though. All in all, we're not saved by what we do. We're saved by what God has done - you know, sacrificing his Son and loving us. It is an honor to God when we express our faith, such as trusting him at all times. That's good too because if it was all about works, it would be one chaotic contest. Still, do good deeds, but perhaps look at in a different way; instead of asking "what can I do next?" acknowledge the desire you have for working in the kingdom and let God guide you.
Here's a video that has a fantastic message: "Grace Changes Everything" by Jamie Slocum. I must admit I'm not too fond of the music.
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
My Rock of Refuge.
Psalm 144:1-2
1 Praise be to the LORD my Rock,
who trains my hands for war,
my fingers for battle.
2 He is my loving God and my fortress,
my stronghold and my deliverer,
my shield, in whom I take refuge,
who subdues peoples under me.
You don't have to go very far to know that if you are a follower of Christ that you will be attacked, criticized, and nearly in the middle of a war at times. Some people are extremists against Christianity. However, look at the adjectives in this scripture reading. Notice how many words here have a strong, powerful connotation, such as: rock, war, battle, fortress, stronghold, deliverer, shield, and refuge. Isn't that incredible that the Lord can make you strong enough to overcome the fiercest battles?
When you're going through the blustery storms of your life, try picturing God as your rock. Get that image in your mind now before the storm clouds blow in the region. Additionally, the Lord - our rock, refuge, and redeemer can help us find a hiding place from the enemy. We need to realize that there are always clouds of evil surrounding us and it is imperative that we have God to protect us.
I mentioned mediating on Psalm 19:14 yesterday. This is another passage that relates to a similar matter. If you are aware of God's awesome power, you will see God open many doors for you. However, if you are blinded by the devil's evil lashes against you, then it will be pretty difficult. Those who work as a missionary in fairly dangerous countries rely on the Lord to clear their paths so that they can serve to the best of their ability given the hostile conditions. No matter how comfortable we feel at home, we should prepare for the worst as well. The calm, comforting conditions aren't always going to be with us; God says that we will be persecuted and hurt sometimes. Solidify your rock and shelter - NOW!
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
1 Praise be to the LORD my Rock,
who trains my hands for war,
my fingers for battle.
2 He is my loving God and my fortress,
my stronghold and my deliverer,
my shield, in whom I take refuge,
who subdues peoples under me.
You don't have to go very far to know that if you are a follower of Christ that you will be attacked, criticized, and nearly in the middle of a war at times. Some people are extremists against Christianity. However, look at the adjectives in this scripture reading. Notice how many words here have a strong, powerful connotation, such as: rock, war, battle, fortress, stronghold, deliverer, shield, and refuge. Isn't that incredible that the Lord can make you strong enough to overcome the fiercest battles?
When you're going through the blustery storms of your life, try picturing God as your rock. Get that image in your mind now before the storm clouds blow in the region. Additionally, the Lord - our rock, refuge, and redeemer can help us find a hiding place from the enemy. We need to realize that there are always clouds of evil surrounding us and it is imperative that we have God to protect us.
I mentioned mediating on Psalm 19:14 yesterday. This is another passage that relates to a similar matter. If you are aware of God's awesome power, you will see God open many doors for you. However, if you are blinded by the devil's evil lashes against you, then it will be pretty difficult. Those who work as a missionary in fairly dangerous countries rely on the Lord to clear their paths so that they can serve to the best of their ability given the hostile conditions. No matter how comfortable we feel at home, we should prepare for the worst as well. The calm, comforting conditions aren't always going to be with us; God says that we will be persecuted and hurt sometimes. Solidify your rock and shelter - NOW!
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Words that Last a Lifetime.
Psalm 19:14
14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Have you ever been challenged to pray every morning at the very least before you go about your day and before your feet ever touch the floor? What about reading a Bible verse or two? As soon as I saw this Psalm, I thought that this would be a great thing to share with the Lord everyday to keep on track. Often when I'm given mini challenges, I try to go beyond that mini challenge and magnify it by seeking that challenge for several days. Anyways, I think that I'm going to utter this verse each day.
If you ask God to direct your thoughts and words, then that will help remind yourself everyday of God's authority. With free will, sure we can say anything or think anything that we want; we're driven by our thoughts and words without a doubt. However, we should glorify God with everything that we do. If we ask him just to help us think before we speak and act, then that will make things so much easier day by day. Do you realize how much this helps? If you accept this challenge, you're still going to fall and make mistakes, but you won't be regretting every last thing.
You'll be surprised at what this can do. If you forever etch this verse in your mind, you'll be amazed at how often you're about to speak or act only to notice that you've been cut off because deep inside of you, this seemingly mediocre task is molding you into a transformed person of Christ.
This world is far too chaotic to be in the midst of it everyday without God. If you have God by your side everyday and acknowledge him, the Lord will be your rock and stronghold.
Listen and sing along to "Here In My Life" by Hillsong United!
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Have you ever been challenged to pray every morning at the very least before you go about your day and before your feet ever touch the floor? What about reading a Bible verse or two? As soon as I saw this Psalm, I thought that this would be a great thing to share with the Lord everyday to keep on track. Often when I'm given mini challenges, I try to go beyond that mini challenge and magnify it by seeking that challenge for several days. Anyways, I think that I'm going to utter this verse each day.
If you ask God to direct your thoughts and words, then that will help remind yourself everyday of God's authority. With free will, sure we can say anything or think anything that we want; we're driven by our thoughts and words without a doubt. However, we should glorify God with everything that we do. If we ask him just to help us think before we speak and act, then that will make things so much easier day by day. Do you realize how much this helps? If you accept this challenge, you're still going to fall and make mistakes, but you won't be regretting every last thing.
You'll be surprised at what this can do. If you forever etch this verse in your mind, you'll be amazed at how often you're about to speak or act only to notice that you've been cut off because deep inside of you, this seemingly mediocre task is molding you into a transformed person of Christ.
This world is far too chaotic to be in the midst of it everyday without God. If you have God by your side everyday and acknowledge him, the Lord will be your rock and stronghold.
Listen and sing along to "Here In My Life" by Hillsong United!
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Love for All the World.
Matthew 19:14
14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
What a powerful reinforcement of God's love as we end the week! When the world abuses, tortures, abandons, or persecutes you, this is a great reminder of God's unconditional love that he has for us.
We are called to love the unloved, the forgotten, the abused, and neglected because before we were saved by Jesus Christ, the one and only Lord and Savior, we were in the same position. How should we go about doing that? We should act as if we are children.
You've probably seen a child be incredibly honest with their parents or most adults. Most of the time they'll admit they've done something wrong, that they love you, or that they don't like something. Don't you wish we could all be like that? Usually, we take love for granted, especially the love of God. 1 Corinthians 13:11 says, "When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things" (see March 9, 2009 post).
This leads me to say that communication is very important in any relationship; there isn't any difference with God. God doesn't want us to just say we're happy and not mean it. If we're angry, he expects us to tell him. If we're thankful, he expects us to tell him. In doing that, we inherit the kingdom of heaven.
God, be with us as we express our thoughts like free children. May we be innocent and willing to be honest and obey you (and others) just like them.
"While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about." ~Anonymous
14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
What a powerful reinforcement of God's love as we end the week! When the world abuses, tortures, abandons, or persecutes you, this is a great reminder of God's unconditional love that he has for us.
We are called to love the unloved, the forgotten, the abused, and neglected because before we were saved by Jesus Christ, the one and only Lord and Savior, we were in the same position. How should we go about doing that? We should act as if we are children.
You've probably seen a child be incredibly honest with their parents or most adults. Most of the time they'll admit they've done something wrong, that they love you, or that they don't like something. Don't you wish we could all be like that? Usually, we take love for granted, especially the love of God. 1 Corinthians 13:11 says, "When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things" (see March 9, 2009 post).
This leads me to say that communication is very important in any relationship; there isn't any difference with God. God doesn't want us to just say we're happy and not mean it. If we're angry, he expects us to tell him. If we're thankful, he expects us to tell him. In doing that, we inherit the kingdom of heaven.
God, be with us as we express our thoughts like free children. May we be innocent and willing to be honest and obey you (and others) just like them.
"While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about." ~Anonymous
Friday, July 23, 2010
Taking that Step: Daydreaming.
John 14:31
31 but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me.
"Come now; let us leave.
Wrapping up the "Taking that Step" series, we end on a difficult one for many: daydreaming. We daydream whether we should be or not. Sometimes, it may be appropriate. However, when we should be doing something, then it probably isn't the wisest decision.
It's almost surprising what Jesus told his disciples to do in this chapter of John. After all the experiences, you might think that the disciples should go forth and reflect on them. However, Jesus asked them not to daydream.
Sure, we can "daydream" or meditate when we're trying to decipher God's will and plan he has for us. When God has already told us where to go, it's not necessary to daydream. Sure, you want to pray about following Christ and listening attentively, but that's more of a day to day event as opposed to figuring it out all in one sitting so to speak.
I want to ask you how much do you love the Lord? Do you love him with all your heart, mind, and soul? If you think about it, if you love someone you're not going to daydream about them constantly and do nothing with them. If you love them, you're going to spend time with them. Similarly, that's what Christ expects from us. There's the saying: "Don't talk about it, be about it." Well I think we could modify that and say: "Don't think about it, do about it." When you're all about God, it shows that you trust him. If you really love him, then you'll trust him anyway.
I know that this probably didn't make a whole lot of sense because I feel like it's so abstract, but I hope you got at least one thing out of it: loving the Lord isn't just something to mull over, it's something that should be expressed through the amount of time you spend with God.
31 but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me.
"Come now; let us leave.
Wrapping up the "Taking that Step" series, we end on a difficult one for many: daydreaming. We daydream whether we should be or not. Sometimes, it may be appropriate. However, when we should be doing something, then it probably isn't the wisest decision.
It's almost surprising what Jesus told his disciples to do in this chapter of John. After all the experiences, you might think that the disciples should go forth and reflect on them. However, Jesus asked them not to daydream.
Sure, we can "daydream" or meditate when we're trying to decipher God's will and plan he has for us. When God has already told us where to go, it's not necessary to daydream. Sure, you want to pray about following Christ and listening attentively, but that's more of a day to day event as opposed to figuring it out all in one sitting so to speak.
I want to ask you how much do you love the Lord? Do you love him with all your heart, mind, and soul? If you think about it, if you love someone you're not going to daydream about them constantly and do nothing with them. If you love them, you're going to spend time with them. Similarly, that's what Christ expects from us. There's the saying: "Don't talk about it, be about it." Well I think we could modify that and say: "Don't think about it, do about it." When you're all about God, it shows that you trust him. If you really love him, then you'll trust him anyway.
I know that this probably didn't make a whole lot of sense because I feel like it's so abstract, but I hope you got at least one thing out of it: loving the Lord isn't just something to mull over, it's something that should be expressed through the amount of time you spend with God.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Taking that Step: Menial Work.
John 13:14
14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.
Sometimes tasks that we have to accomplish feel monotonous, dull, menial, or boring as we all tend to call it. At times, it feels like we're doing "busy work" much like high school can feel. I remember many teachers would hand out work and I would ask "what is the purpose of this?" Half of the time I would understand the purpose, while the rest of the time I still was unclear about it's relevance. However, I still did the work anyway. God can help us get any job done though. He can be the inspiration that we need. If we act in obedience and don't undermine anything in particular, our dull tasks can be transformed into an inspirational task particularly if it's intended to benefit God's kingdom.
The aforementioned work certainly reveals our true character. Sure the work isn't ideal to us, but if we work obediently, that says something. Additionally, our spirituality is tested (see "Spiritual Exhaustion" post July 12).
In the case of Jesus Christ, he washed the fisherman's feet. If your friend, were to tell you wash feet, most likely you wouldn't go all in to do it. However, I can tell you, it's an emotionally powerful experience (both washing someone else's feet and someone washing your feet). The Lord can take a common and/or uninspiring task and revolutionize it into something completely different. This is God working through us. Specifically, God works on our human qualities and changes our body into a living, holy temple.
How will you look at your "boring" tasks differently today? What does that say about your character and spirituality? Hilaire Belloc said, "Any subject can be made interesting, and therefore any subject can be made boring." While the two extremes do exist in reality, try to make everything interesting and certainly inspirational. Finally, be obedient!
14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.
Sometimes tasks that we have to accomplish feel monotonous, dull, menial, or boring as we all tend to call it. At times, it feels like we're doing "busy work" much like high school can feel. I remember many teachers would hand out work and I would ask "what is the purpose of this?" Half of the time I would understand the purpose, while the rest of the time I still was unclear about it's relevance. However, I still did the work anyway. God can help us get any job done though. He can be the inspiration that we need. If we act in obedience and don't undermine anything in particular, our dull tasks can be transformed into an inspirational task particularly if it's intended to benefit God's kingdom.
The aforementioned work certainly reveals our true character. Sure the work isn't ideal to us, but if we work obediently, that says something. Additionally, our spirituality is tested (see "Spiritual Exhaustion" post July 12).
In the case of Jesus Christ, he washed the fisherman's feet. If your friend, were to tell you wash feet, most likely you wouldn't go all in to do it. However, I can tell you, it's an emotionally powerful experience (both washing someone else's feet and someone washing your feet). The Lord can take a common and/or uninspiring task and revolutionize it into something completely different. This is God working through us. Specifically, God works on our human qualities and changes our body into a living, holy temple.
How will you look at your "boring" tasks differently today? What does that say about your character and spirituality? Hilaire Belloc said, "Any subject can be made interesting, and therefore any subject can be made boring." While the two extremes do exist in reality, try to make everything interesting and certainly inspirational. Finally, be obedient!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Taking that Step: Discouragement.
2 Corinthians 4:7-12;16-18
7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11 For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12 So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Have you ever had one of those days that you wish you could re-do? That's how I felt yesterday. As I'm writing this late Tuesday, I have felt a great deal of relief wash over me in the last hour or so as I've looked at this passage over and over again.
You see, my not so good day began after my 8:00 class. When I left, I realized that I didn't have my wallet. I said, "Well I know I didn't take it out during math class so it must be back in my dorm. Plus, I don't even remember putting it in my pocket before I left." Upon returning, it wasn't there. I hurried back to the lecture hall, but another class was just beginning. I quickly glanced in the general area of my seat, but I saw nothing. Then, I reported it missing to lost and found, only to no avail. For the rest of the day, there were a couple of other things that tried to get me discouraged as well. At the very least, I learned some important lessons. After all, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed."
When we're disappointed, we tend to turn away from God and his beautiful creation. This happens to even the hardiest of souls. Notice it mentions a "jar of clay." The significance of that is that a jar of clay is extremely fragile. Our bodies, shattered dreams, and moments of despair are all characteristics of our "jar of clay." Within that fragile jar of clay, is a priceless treasure that has unimaginable worth! That treasure is God living within us providing us with love and life. Alone, without God, our jar is empty. However, with God, our jar is filled with God, we receive the very best that God wants for us.
God doesn't want you to be down. Often I find that he steps in and takes over the situation. It is then when we don't even realize how naturally simplistic God can be. It's time to take that step against discouragement and depression: "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Take that step to fight discouragement; don't just overcome it. Otherwise, we will just dig a deeper hole. Follow the Spirit, and he will you steer you away from the down moments.
Go forth and look at the filled jar each day. You will be energized with new life. Sure, we're going to have cracks in our pot. Based on how we handle the cracks in the road, is how it will filter into the world for all to see!
7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11 For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12 So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Have you ever had one of those days that you wish you could re-do? That's how I felt yesterday. As I'm writing this late Tuesday, I have felt a great deal of relief wash over me in the last hour or so as I've looked at this passage over and over again.
You see, my not so good day began after my 8:00 class. When I left, I realized that I didn't have my wallet. I said, "Well I know I didn't take it out during math class so it must be back in my dorm. Plus, I don't even remember putting it in my pocket before I left." Upon returning, it wasn't there. I hurried back to the lecture hall, but another class was just beginning. I quickly glanced in the general area of my seat, but I saw nothing. Then, I reported it missing to lost and found, only to no avail. For the rest of the day, there were a couple of other things that tried to get me discouraged as well. At the very least, I learned some important lessons. After all, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed."
When we're disappointed, we tend to turn away from God and his beautiful creation. This happens to even the hardiest of souls. Notice it mentions a "jar of clay." The significance of that is that a jar of clay is extremely fragile. Our bodies, shattered dreams, and moments of despair are all characteristics of our "jar of clay." Within that fragile jar of clay, is a priceless treasure that has unimaginable worth! That treasure is God living within us providing us with love and life. Alone, without God, our jar is empty. However, with God, our jar is filled with God, we receive the very best that God wants for us.
God doesn't want you to be down. Often I find that he steps in and takes over the situation. It is then when we don't even realize how naturally simplistic God can be. It's time to take that step against discouragement and depression: "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Take that step to fight discouragement; don't just overcome it. Otherwise, we will just dig a deeper hole. Follow the Spirit, and he will you steer you away from the down moments.
Go forth and look at the filled jar each day. You will be energized with new life. Sure, we're going to have cracks in our pot. Based on how we handle the cracks in the road, is how it will filter into the world for all to see!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Taking that Step: Rise.
Ephesians 5:14
14 for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
When someone tells you to "Wake up and let's go" it's quite alarming. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, so essentially we just lay there. When God and the Holy Spirit step into the picture, in the end we feel it's more of an inspiring and spiritual "let's go" chant. If we are open to receive the wake up call, it can be just the push that we need!
When you were young, what did you say that you wanted to be when you grew up? As a child, we have many dreams. I know from the age of three I wanted to be a meteorologist. Now, I'm a freshman in college, and that's what I'm studying. I've always said I'm not going to let anything stop me from acquiring my goal. Meteorology requires an abundance of math, and math isn't my strongest subject at all. However, I continually try and press forward in my weak areas especially. Hopefully, one day I will see the other side of this and successfully become a meteorologist. I have realized that it's not going to be easy.
God wants us to follow through with our dreams, in a sense. He wants us to "rise from the dead" and pursue the seemingly impossible tasks, for he won't leave us during these times. With this, you will feel an incredible amount of power. We don't get a magical "overcoming challenges" potion. However, as we overcome feats and challenges, God gives us life. We have to get up and get going. God is not going to force us to do anything. While your goals that you have set for yourself may look rather unobtainable, once you tackle the challenges, you will be awed at God's awesome power to help you continue your journey!
14 for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
When someone tells you to "Wake up and let's go" it's quite alarming. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, so essentially we just lay there. When God and the Holy Spirit step into the picture, in the end we feel it's more of an inspiring and spiritual "let's go" chant. If we are open to receive the wake up call, it can be just the push that we need!
When you were young, what did you say that you wanted to be when you grew up? As a child, we have many dreams. I know from the age of three I wanted to be a meteorologist. Now, I'm a freshman in college, and that's what I'm studying. I've always said I'm not going to let anything stop me from acquiring my goal. Meteorology requires an abundance of math, and math isn't my strongest subject at all. However, I continually try and press forward in my weak areas especially. Hopefully, one day I will see the other side of this and successfully become a meteorologist. I have realized that it's not going to be easy.
God wants us to follow through with our dreams, in a sense. He wants us to "rise from the dead" and pursue the seemingly impossible tasks, for he won't leave us during these times. With this, you will feel an incredible amount of power. We don't get a magical "overcoming challenges" potion. However, as we overcome feats and challenges, God gives us life. We have to get up and get going. God is not going to force us to do anything. While your goals that you have set for yourself may look rather unobtainable, once you tackle the challenges, you will be awed at God's awesome power to help you continue your journey!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Controlling Our Desires.
1 Peter 5:8
8 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
A week ago yesterday at church we talked about self control, one of the fruits of the spirit. I felt the urge to talk about self control today. Self control is defined as the "control of one's emotions, desires, or actions by one's own will." One's own will would mean God in the Christian sense. Thus, since self control is one of the fruits of the spirit, self control means that we regulate our emotions and desires so that they match up with God's.
So often Satan uses our greatest interests or weaknesses to pull us away from God which can be devastating. Focusing on the weakness aspect, if we like to eat unhealthy food, Satan tries his best to let that consume our lives.
I know that sometimes we all have restless thoughts that keep us up at night. With age, comes more responsibilities (I've noticed that recently!). However, as soon as I turn to God, the anxiousness fades. Sometimes it's good to clear your mind. I don't even have to encounter stressful thoughts to keep me awake in bed at night. Sometimes, it's just things I want to get accomplished the next day, for example. In order to clear my mind, I have to write those things down before I can get a peaceful night's rest. Whatever the case, we can save our entries and look back on them and examine how we think and how we have strayed from reality. This method will help focus our eyes back on the Lord.
If you don't do this then you are personally inviting the evil one in to consume your mind with doubt and deception. I mentioned Saturday that Satan tries to search, kill, and destroy who we are (in God). By giving the Lord our anxious thoughts and worries, we can stop our inner desires from getting in the way of our relationship with Christ.
Interestingly enough there's a song called "Roaring Like a Lion" by David Crowder Band. We sang that in church just yesterday! They're not talking about the devil roaring like a lion in this case, but God. We know that because of our faith in God and his love tells us that he's alive and not dead. While, I can't find a video of the song that contains the lyrics, I invite you to listen to words and enjoy the song! Here's a link to lyrics where you can sing along with to the video if you'd like: http://www.newreleasetuesday.com/lyricsdetail.php?lyrics_id=62411
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
8 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
A week ago yesterday at church we talked about self control, one of the fruits of the spirit. I felt the urge to talk about self control today. Self control is defined as the "control of one's emotions, desires, or actions by one's own will." One's own will would mean God in the Christian sense. Thus, since self control is one of the fruits of the spirit, self control means that we regulate our emotions and desires so that they match up with God's.
So often Satan uses our greatest interests or weaknesses to pull us away from God which can be devastating. Focusing on the weakness aspect, if we like to eat unhealthy food, Satan tries his best to let that consume our lives.
I know that sometimes we all have restless thoughts that keep us up at night. With age, comes more responsibilities (I've noticed that recently!). However, as soon as I turn to God, the anxiousness fades. Sometimes it's good to clear your mind. I don't even have to encounter stressful thoughts to keep me awake in bed at night. Sometimes, it's just things I want to get accomplished the next day, for example. In order to clear my mind, I have to write those things down before I can get a peaceful night's rest. Whatever the case, we can save our entries and look back on them and examine how we think and how we have strayed from reality. This method will help focus our eyes back on the Lord.
If you don't do this then you are personally inviting the evil one in to consume your mind with doubt and deception. I mentioned Saturday that Satan tries to search, kill, and destroy who we are (in God). By giving the Lord our anxious thoughts and worries, we can stop our inner desires from getting in the way of our relationship with Christ.
Interestingly enough there's a song called "Roaring Like a Lion" by David Crowder Band. We sang that in church just yesterday! They're not talking about the devil roaring like a lion in this case, but God. We know that because of our faith in God and his love tells us that he's alive and not dead. While, I can't find a video of the song that contains the lyrics, I invite you to listen to words and enjoy the song! Here's a link to lyrics where you can sing along with to the video if you'd like: http://www.newreleasetuesday.com/lyricsdetail.php?lyrics_id=62411
P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause. P.S. If you have trouble with the video stopping and starting, keep the video paused, and let it "buffer" (load) as it's called for a while. You will see the red bar along the bottom advance (speed depends on your Internet connection). Wait until that bar gets pretty far along (I'd say more than halfway) before you play the video and it shouldn't pause.
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