"LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman, who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the LORD, who keeps his oath even when it hurts, who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken" (Psalm 15).
Okay, this passage makes me laugh. Who can live with God? Oh, you know, those who are blameless...yeah, right! We can try to be good, but we can never, never be perfect. We are selfish, jealous, greedy, miserly, malicious, and broken. So, that means none of us can live with God...without Christ. This is what I love about God. He has high standards. (Perfection is a pretty high standard, isn't it?) He is holy and cannot be contaminated by contact with anything or anyone that is sinful. But He is also loving, the ultimate lover, love itself. And He loved us so much, that He cast all the world's sin on His son for our sakes.
As straightforward as David is in Psalm 15 about what is expected of God's people, Paul is just as straightforward as he explains about this provision for all of us. "But now a righteousness from God, apart from the law (being perfect), has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ" (Romans 3:21-24).
When we truly realize that we are all in need of God's mercy (not getting what we deserve) and grace (getting what we didn't deserve), we ought to become more sympathetic and understanding of each other's flaws. Wasn't God patient and forgiving toward you? We ought to respond in kind to one another.
About Me
- Sunshine
- Learning to face life with a smile...and occasional hysterical laughter.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Where To Put Your Trust
This morning I read Psalm 14, and it's good, but it just didn't say much to me today. I am a creature of habit, and since God knows that about me (He made me, didn't He?), I think He sometimes nudges me to get out of my routine. So I flipped back over to Isaiah and read chapter 8.
God says that war will come to Judah and Israel in the form of the king of Assyria (Is. 8:6-8). Isaiah responds by saying, "Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us" (Ps. 8:10). The plans of humankind may seem infallible, but they are not. A project may be worked on for decades, but they don't always succeed. As Robert Burns said, "The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry."
The last phrase in verse 10, in the original Hebrew, is my favorite word that is used to describe Jesus--Immanuel. What power lies in the words themselves. Reminds me of Paul's words, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31b).
God warns Isaiah, "with his strong hand upon [him]," not to follow the ways of his fellow men. God tells him, "'Do not call conspiracy everything that these people call conspiracy (footnote says "Do not call for a treaty every time these people call for a treaty"); do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. The LORD Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear, he is the one you are to dread, and he will be a sanctuary'" (Is. 8:11-14a).
Making decisions, especially decisions that affect people across a nation and even the world, can be very difficult. But if your counsel is from God, decision-making becomes very different. What others think becomes less important and, sometimes, even trivial. We must put our trust in our Maker, the One who sees all and in fact controls all. God is the One we are to honor, not men. The opinions of our fellow human beings may sometimes have wisdom in them, but many times they are earthly thoughts. As I've said before, we must be careful from whom we receive advice. And even when all others agree on a certain idea or plan, we must not be afraid if we feel God is leading us another way. Hone your spiritual hearing so that you can easily perceive the Holy Spirit's prompting. And don't be afraid, for God is with you.
God says that war will come to Judah and Israel in the form of the king of Assyria (Is. 8:6-8). Isaiah responds by saying, "Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us" (Ps. 8:10). The plans of humankind may seem infallible, but they are not. A project may be worked on for decades, but they don't always succeed. As Robert Burns said, "The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry."
The last phrase in verse 10, in the original Hebrew, is my favorite word that is used to describe Jesus--Immanuel. What power lies in the words themselves. Reminds me of Paul's words, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31b).
God warns Isaiah, "with his strong hand upon [him]," not to follow the ways of his fellow men. God tells him, "'Do not call conspiracy everything that these people call conspiracy (footnote says "Do not call for a treaty every time these people call for a treaty"); do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. The LORD Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear, he is the one you are to dread, and he will be a sanctuary'" (Is. 8:11-14a).
Making decisions, especially decisions that affect people across a nation and even the world, can be very difficult. But if your counsel is from God, decision-making becomes very different. What others think becomes less important and, sometimes, even trivial. We must put our trust in our Maker, the One who sees all and in fact controls all. God is the One we are to honor, not men. The opinions of our fellow human beings may sometimes have wisdom in them, but many times they are earthly thoughts. As I've said before, we must be careful from whom we receive advice. And even when all others agree on a certain idea or plan, we must not be afraid if we feel God is leading us another way. Hone your spiritual hearing so that you can easily perceive the Holy Spirit's prompting. And don't be afraid, for God is with you.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Faith for the Long Haul
"How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?" (Ps. 13:1-2).
How many of us can relate to David? All of us! We all have struggles, these "thorns in the flesh," as Paul put it. For some of us, it's a struggle with our thoughts. For others of us, it's a physical ailment. We have been hurt by others in the past, we are tormented by some in our lives today. Satan uses our frailties to bring us down. We feel as if our pain will never end. And sometimes it never will. In the second chapter of 2 Corinthians, Paul asked God to remove his struggle. God refused. But God loves us; we are His children. He will not allow us to suffer more than we can bear. (See 1 Corinthians 10:13.) God knows what His children need, and He will provide what we need. It's up to us to recognize this and receive what He offers us.
So what then shall we do as we cope with these struggles? David and Paul offer examples. David said, "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me" (Ps. 13:5-6). David did four things. He 1) determined that he would trust God, 2) reminded Himself that God is faithful, 3) praised God for saving him, and 4) remembered the good things with which God had blessed him. The next time you are feeling bombarded and brought low, follow David's example. And always keep a good worship music CD around. Praising God even in the midst of frustration and sadness will direct your eyes to heaven. Two songs that come to mind are "Blessed Be Your Name" and "Trading My Sorrows."
Back to Paul...God refused to remove his struggle, didn't he? Why? God said to Paul, "'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness'" (2 Cor. 12:9a). Did Paul say, "Oh, but God, I can't do it, I just can't do it." No, he didn't. If he had, he would have been focused on his limited human strength, not on God's power. Instead, he said, "Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong" (Ps. 13:9b-10). Remember that in all things, God is to be glorified. Our weaknesses reveal God's almighty strength.
We will have good days when we can actually feel God's hand supporting us. We will also have bad days when we feel like we're in a pit. The key is to remember what God has done for you in the past, recognize that it was He who saved you many times, praise Jesus for giving His life up for yours, and make a conscious decision to trust God to keep on keeping you.
How many of us can relate to David? All of us! We all have struggles, these "thorns in the flesh," as Paul put it. For some of us, it's a struggle with our thoughts. For others of us, it's a physical ailment. We have been hurt by others in the past, we are tormented by some in our lives today. Satan uses our frailties to bring us down. We feel as if our pain will never end. And sometimes it never will. In the second chapter of 2 Corinthians, Paul asked God to remove his struggle. God refused. But God loves us; we are His children. He will not allow us to suffer more than we can bear. (See 1 Corinthians 10:13.) God knows what His children need, and He will provide what we need. It's up to us to recognize this and receive what He offers us.
So what then shall we do as we cope with these struggles? David and Paul offer examples. David said, "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me" (Ps. 13:5-6). David did four things. He 1) determined that he would trust God, 2) reminded Himself that God is faithful, 3) praised God for saving him, and 4) remembered the good things with which God had blessed him. The next time you are feeling bombarded and brought low, follow David's example. And always keep a good worship music CD around. Praising God even in the midst of frustration and sadness will direct your eyes to heaven. Two songs that come to mind are "Blessed Be Your Name" and "Trading My Sorrows."
Back to Paul...God refused to remove his struggle, didn't he? Why? God said to Paul, "'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness'" (2 Cor. 12:9a). Did Paul say, "Oh, but God, I can't do it, I just can't do it." No, he didn't. If he had, he would have been focused on his limited human strength, not on God's power. Instead, he said, "Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong" (Ps. 13:9b-10). Remember that in all things, God is to be glorified. Our weaknesses reveal God's almighty strength.
We will have good days when we can actually feel God's hand supporting us. We will also have bad days when we feel like we're in a pit. The key is to remember what God has done for you in the past, recognize that it was He who saved you many times, praise Jesus for giving His life up for yours, and make a conscious decision to trust God to keep on keeping you.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
His Word Is As Good As Gold (Or Silver)
David beseeches God for help in Psalm 12, asks for help from his lying, deceptive society. He says, "The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men" (Ps. 12:8). After watching some prime time television last night, my husband and I had a conversation about how bad TV has become. What is evil is being honored by the shows that are broadcast. It is not right. It seems that over time we just begin to accept it. We certainly need to ask God for help in this area. Verse 4 says that the wicked say, "'We will triumph with our tongues; we own our lips--who is our master?'" I'm taking these verses a bit out of context perhaps, but this verse reminds me of how perverted the interpretation of the freedom of speech has become. Grrrr. Just makes my blood boil.
David reminds us that "(God) will keep us safe and protect us from such people forever" (Ps. 12:7). And God Himself says, "'Because of the oppression of the weak and the groaning of the needy, I will now arise...'" (Ps. 12:5a). I don't know about you, but when God says He's gettin' up, well, it just sounds ominous. It's like a parent's saying, "Don't make me come over there!" God's gettin' up, and when that happens, you can bet it ain't gonna be pretty.
Here's the kicker of the chapter for me. David says, "And the words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times" (Ps. 12:7). His words are as good as gold. They are perfect. They are to be trusted completely. Humans may make promises, and oftentimes they break them. But we can rely on God's word.
David reminds us that "(God) will keep us safe and protect us from such people forever" (Ps. 12:7). And God Himself says, "'Because of the oppression of the weak and the groaning of the needy, I will now arise...'" (Ps. 12:5a). I don't know about you, but when God says He's gettin' up, well, it just sounds ominous. It's like a parent's saying, "Don't make me come over there!" God's gettin' up, and when that happens, you can bet it ain't gonna be pretty.
Here's the kicker of the chapter for me. David says, "And the words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times" (Ps. 12:7). His words are as good as gold. They are perfect. They are to be trusted completely. Humans may make promises, and oftentimes they break them. But we can rely on God's word.
Monday, September 26, 2005
Peace in the Chaos
Psalm 11 seems very appropriate for the events that have taken place in the last few weeks. David begins by declaring, "In the LORD (Yahweh) I take refuge" (Ps. 11:1a). Clearly, others (or perhaps David himself?) want to know how David can say that when "the wicked bend their bows; they set their arrows against the strings to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart" (Ps. 11:2). We live in a dangerous world. Man attacks man. Within families, relatives turn on each other. And, in this world, we are vulnerable to Satan's schemes. And natural disasters, as we have seen recently, can decimate life as we know it. Verse 3 reminded me of the recent hurricanes as well as the tsunami earlier this year. "When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Ps. 11:3).
Why should this be a comfort? Because no matter what happens--natural disasters, tornadoes, floods, crumbling homes, death, unstable relationships--through it all, God is over it all. He sees. The rest of verse 4 says, "He observes the sons of men; his eyes examine them" (Ps. 11:4b). But He does not keep Himself from us. Believe me--God can make good come of evil. He will not let those who love Him fall. I am safe, knowing that the God who created the universe, who has sustained His people for millennia, who calmed the seas in Galilee, who created me as a unique child of His, this same God loves me and will not let me go. I also know that He doesn't want me to merely exist, but to live life abundantly.
"If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?...[I]n all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:31b-32, 37-39).
"The LORD (Yahweh) is in his holy temple; the LORD (Yahweh) is on his
heavenly throne." (Ps. 11:4a).
Why should this be a comfort? Because no matter what happens--natural disasters, tornadoes, floods, crumbling homes, death, unstable relationships--through it all, God is over it all. He sees. The rest of verse 4 says, "He observes the sons of men; his eyes examine them" (Ps. 11:4b). But He does not keep Himself from us. Believe me--God can make good come of evil. He will not let those who love Him fall. I am safe, knowing that the God who created the universe, who has sustained His people for millennia, who calmed the seas in Galilee, who created me as a unique child of His, this same God loves me and will not let me go. I also know that He doesn't want me to merely exist, but to live life abundantly.
"If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?...[I]n all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:31b-32, 37-39).
Friday, September 23, 2005
Bullies
Earlier this week I read a children's story by Max Lucado. In the story, a group of bullies targets a small boy and his bike. The boy's parents remind him of Moses, who, though trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army, was calm and trusted in God to take care of him and the Israelites. In the end, one of the bullies falls and hurts himself, the little boy summons his father for help, the bully feels remorse, and the story concludes, leaving the reader feeling secure that the little boy will be safe.
Bullies are not limited to the elementary school playground. Even as adults, we sometimes find ourselves being tormented by co-workers, bosses, and other peers. It seems it is part of human nature to strive for power regardless of the cost. And let's not forget the ultimate bully, Satan. His strategies are to ambush and to persistently poke at our emotional, mental, and spiritual weaknesses until our defenses crack and we cave in. As David said of the wicked in general, "His mouth is full of curses and lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue. He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent, watching in secret for his victims" (Ps. 10:7-8).
David was the target of bullies. In Psalm 10, he records his thoughts. "In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises...His ways are always prosperous; he is haughty and (God's) laws are far from him" (Ps. 10:2, 5a). Sometimes we feel that God is not watching or that He does not care. However, we also know of the wicked that "in his pride the wicked does not seek (God); in all his thoughts there is no room for God...He says to himself, 'Nothing will shake me; I'll always be happy and never have trouble'" (Ps. 10:4, 6). What foolishness!
Remember that evil operates on lies. The wicked may think they have won, that they are in power. Their victims may believe it at times. But David reminds himself and us, "The LORD is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land. You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, in order that man, who is of the earth, may terrify no more" (Ps. 10:16-18). Remember also as you struggle in your dealings with other people, that "...our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Eph. 6:12). As I heard Joyce Meyer say on TV yesterday, we've got to stop being angry with other people and go to the source of evil. Remember what Jesus' main weapon was when He faced down Satan in the desert: God's Word. It is your sword to battle against evil (Eph. 6:17). Last weekend I watched Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Aragorn would never go into a battle without his sword--and neither should we. (I have to confess here that I love the character of Eowyn, the princess and warrior of Rohan. She's always got her sword with her! I hope to be like her when I'm in heaven. I don't think God would make me ride the bench just because I was a woman on earth. See the book Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge for more on that topic. I highly recommend it, as well as Wild at Heart.)
In the Max Lucado story, two angels reveal that they worked the wonders at the Red Sea. They also intervene in the suffering of the little boy. God sent angels to minister to Jesus after He was tempted by Satan. And God sends His angels to protect us. Psalm 91:11 reveals that "(God) will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."
You are not alone in your daily battles. Ask God to intervene in your worries today.
Bullies are not limited to the elementary school playground. Even as adults, we sometimes find ourselves being tormented by co-workers, bosses, and other peers. It seems it is part of human nature to strive for power regardless of the cost. And let's not forget the ultimate bully, Satan. His strategies are to ambush and to persistently poke at our emotional, mental, and spiritual weaknesses until our defenses crack and we cave in. As David said of the wicked in general, "His mouth is full of curses and lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue. He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent, watching in secret for his victims" (Ps. 10:7-8).
David was the target of bullies. In Psalm 10, he records his thoughts. "In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises...His ways are always prosperous; he is haughty and (God's) laws are far from him" (Ps. 10:2, 5a). Sometimes we feel that God is not watching or that He does not care. However, we also know of the wicked that "in his pride the wicked does not seek (God); in all his thoughts there is no room for God...He says to himself, 'Nothing will shake me; I'll always be happy and never have trouble'" (Ps. 10:4, 6). What foolishness!
Remember that evil operates on lies. The wicked may think they have won, that they are in power. Their victims may believe it at times. But David reminds himself and us, "The LORD is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land. You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, in order that man, who is of the earth, may terrify no more" (Ps. 10:16-18). Remember also as you struggle in your dealings with other people, that "...our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Eph. 6:12). As I heard Joyce Meyer say on TV yesterday, we've got to stop being angry with other people and go to the source of evil. Remember what Jesus' main weapon was when He faced down Satan in the desert: God's Word. It is your sword to battle against evil (Eph. 6:17). Last weekend I watched Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Aragorn would never go into a battle without his sword--and neither should we. (I have to confess here that I love the character of Eowyn, the princess and warrior of Rohan. She's always got her sword with her! I hope to be like her when I'm in heaven. I don't think God would make me ride the bench just because I was a woman on earth. See the book Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge for more on that topic. I highly recommend it, as well as Wild at Heart.)
In the Max Lucado story, two angels reveal that they worked the wonders at the Red Sea. They also intervene in the suffering of the little boy. God sent angels to minister to Jesus after He was tempted by Satan. And God sends His angels to protect us. Psalm 91:11 reveals that "(God) will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."
You are not alone in your daily battles. Ask God to intervene in your worries today.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Psalm 9
Psalm 9 is a song of praise to God for His protection. David knows that evil will continue to pursue him, so he also asks God for continued mercy and rescue.
Why do we ask God for help? Naturally, we want relief from the pains and trials that we encounter. But the mature believer will see the bigger picture, will see that ultimately everything is for God's glory. David says, "O LORD, see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of death, that I may declare your praises in the gates of the Daughter of Zion and there rejoice in your salvation" (Ps. 9:13-14).
Do we make a habit of proclaiming how God has been good to us? Unfortunately, oftentimes when a difficult situation works out well for us, we say a token "thank God" as we narrate the event to a friend. But we promptly become obsessed with some other struggle and wonder why God doesn't hurry up and fix it for us. Hmmm. A few tidbits about thanking God. Paul says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6). We must be wary of what can happen if we do not give thanks. "For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened" (Romans 1:21). I think we often live as if God is here to serve us. Foolish humans. He created us. We are to serve Him and His purposes. That may seem oppressive, but the funny thing is, we are blessed when we do serve Him and live to glorify Him.
In the past few months, it has become a deep wish of mine to tell people about how God has saved me and protected me. I was world-weary. Frustrations about my job, relationships, and other situations had me in a pit. I was not reflecting light, but rather was crouching in darkness, wondering what to do. Then I began reading the psalms. Three months into my study of this book, my mother died, very tragically and suddenly. I told Satan and God both that my devotion to God would never change. God truly works good out of what Satan means for evil. God has given me strength in ways that I cannot explain. The key is to ask God to give you joy, even as you are weeping. He wants you to pour our your heart to Him. So many times we think that we have to "have it together" when we come to God. It was never intended to be that way! God knows you better than you know yourself. He knows what is troubling you. Even if it is doubt in Him, tell Him about it.
Let's join David in praising our God.
"I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High" (Ps. 9:1-2).
"My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before you. For you have upheld my right and my cause" (Ps. 9:3a).
"The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. Sing praises to the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done" (Ps. 9:9-11).
"The wicked return to the grave, all the nations that forget God. But the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish" (Ps. 9:17-18).
I find that last verse interesting. It reiterates Paul's words in Romans 1:21. David ends the psalm this way: "[L]et the nations know they are but men" (Ps. 9:20b).
May God open the eyes of your heart, that you may see Him as the God who created the world and protects His people. I pray that you also develop the spirit of thankfulness.
Why do we ask God for help? Naturally, we want relief from the pains and trials that we encounter. But the mature believer will see the bigger picture, will see that ultimately everything is for God's glory. David says, "O LORD, see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of death, that I may declare your praises in the gates of the Daughter of Zion and there rejoice in your salvation" (Ps. 9:13-14).
Do we make a habit of proclaiming how God has been good to us? Unfortunately, oftentimes when a difficult situation works out well for us, we say a token "thank God" as we narrate the event to a friend. But we promptly become obsessed with some other struggle and wonder why God doesn't hurry up and fix it for us. Hmmm. A few tidbits about thanking God. Paul says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6). We must be wary of what can happen if we do not give thanks. "For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened" (Romans 1:21). I think we often live as if God is here to serve us. Foolish humans. He created us. We are to serve Him and His purposes. That may seem oppressive, but the funny thing is, we are blessed when we do serve Him and live to glorify Him.
In the past few months, it has become a deep wish of mine to tell people about how God has saved me and protected me. I was world-weary. Frustrations about my job, relationships, and other situations had me in a pit. I was not reflecting light, but rather was crouching in darkness, wondering what to do. Then I began reading the psalms. Three months into my study of this book, my mother died, very tragically and suddenly. I told Satan and God both that my devotion to God would never change. God truly works good out of what Satan means for evil. God has given me strength in ways that I cannot explain. The key is to ask God to give you joy, even as you are weeping. He wants you to pour our your heart to Him. So many times we think that we have to "have it together" when we come to God. It was never intended to be that way! God knows you better than you know yourself. He knows what is troubling you. Even if it is doubt in Him, tell Him about it.
Let's join David in praising our God.
"I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High" (Ps. 9:1-2).
"My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before you. For you have upheld my right and my cause" (Ps. 9:3a).
"The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. Sing praises to the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done" (Ps. 9:9-11).
"The wicked return to the grave, all the nations that forget God. But the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish" (Ps. 9:17-18).
I find that last verse interesting. It reiterates Paul's words in Romans 1:21. David ends the psalm this way: "[L]et the nations know they are but men" (Ps. 9:20b).
May God open the eyes of your heart, that you may see Him as the God who created the world and protects His people. I pray that you also develop the spirit of thankfulness.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Psalm 8
Occasionally, there is a psalm about which I feel it unnecessary to comment. Today's psalm is one. So, I present Psalm 8.
May we all consider today the beautiful earth that God created, first, for His enjoyment and take to heart the awesome responsibility and honor He has given us by putting it in our keeping.
"O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory about the heavens. From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger. When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" (Ps. 8).
May we all consider today the beautiful earth that God created, first, for His enjoyment and take to heart the awesome responsibility and honor He has given us by putting it in our keeping.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Psalm 7
David seeks God's help as he faces adversity from those who wish him harm. "O LORD my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me, or they will tear me like a lion and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me" (Ps. 7:1-2). We may not have people waiting to do our physical lives in. But we do encounter people in our lives who do not wish the best for us, who do not want to see us succeed. Satan, of course, is another example.
David further asks, "O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure" (Ps. 7:9). David acknowledges that God knows the motives that lie in one's heart, and he asks God to stop the evil that people do to one another. He also asks God to protect those who desire to live to honor Him.
"My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart" (Ps. 7:10). David acknowledges that God is faithful to His people. And he does something that I have been thinking about lately, something that I do not do anywhere as often as I ought to. He thanks God. "I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High" (Ps. 7:17). I have been asking God for many things lately. Even if I am praying on the behalf of others, I am not focused much on thanking God for taking care of me and the others for whom I pray.
Begin taking time each day to thank God for who He is and how He has been good to you.
David further asks, "O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure" (Ps. 7:9). David acknowledges that God knows the motives that lie in one's heart, and he asks God to stop the evil that people do to one another. He also asks God to protect those who desire to live to honor Him.
"My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart" (Ps. 7:10). David acknowledges that God is faithful to His people. And he does something that I have been thinking about lately, something that I do not do anywhere as often as I ought to. He thanks God. "I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High" (Ps. 7:17). I have been asking God for many things lately. Even if I am praying on the behalf of others, I am not focused much on thanking God for taking care of me and the others for whom I pray.
Begin taking time each day to thank God for who He is and how He has been good to you.
Monday, September 19, 2005
Psalm 6
This psalm is one to read when you have failed God, but you are eager to turn back to Him for mercy and healing.
"Be merciful to me, LORD, for I am faint; O LORD, heal me, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in anguish. How long, O LORD, how long?" (Ps. 6:2-3). There are seasons in our lives that seem to be neverending. We want to know how long they will last. Our responsibility in these times is to lean on God wholely and ask Him to use the circumstance to work good.
"My eyes grow weak with sorrow; they fail because of all my foes" (Ps. 6:7). When I first read this verse, I imagine David's eyes are weak because he has been weeping. (See verse 6.) I don't really pay attention to the second part of the verse. But upon reading it again, I see a common frailty in humankind. We feel surrounded by evil, by the pressures of the world, so much that our vision begins to deteriorate. The solution is to get our vision checked every day. My suggestion is to make it part of your morning routine. For those of you that wear contacts or glasses, ask God to correct your spiritual vision as you are correcting your physical vision. We know that we can't make it through the day if we can't see. So why do we tolerate spiritual blindness?
I love David's response to his tendency to submit to evil powers. He tells them to go away because God's on his side! "Away from me, all you who do evil, for the LORD has heard my weeping. The LORD has heard my cry for mercy; the LORD accepts my prayer" (Ps. 6:8-9). While David may have been speaking specifically about other human beings, we can stretch the application further. We do need to accept responsibility for our actions. But we must also be aware of our surroundings. God tells us to shun evil. Jesus Himself told Satan, "'Away from me, Satan!'" (Matthew 4:10a). And you know what? Satan then left Him, and angels came to minister to Him (Matt. 4:11). If we are to follow Jesus' example, doesn't it make sense to tell Satan to leave you alone when you are thinking bad thoughts about someone, feeling depressed, or being tempted to act in ways you know are destructive? I have used this strategy, and I've never felt so empowered as a child of God as when I'm telling Satan what not to do and where to go. We have access to God's power because we belong to God.
I pray that today you may experience the power that God provides His children as you face struggles with the assurance that you are His child.
"Be merciful to me, LORD, for I am faint; O LORD, heal me, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in anguish. How long, O LORD, how long?" (Ps. 6:2-3). There are seasons in our lives that seem to be neverending. We want to know how long they will last. Our responsibility in these times is to lean on God wholely and ask Him to use the circumstance to work good.
"My eyes grow weak with sorrow; they fail because of all my foes" (Ps. 6:7). When I first read this verse, I imagine David's eyes are weak because he has been weeping. (See verse 6.) I don't really pay attention to the second part of the verse. But upon reading it again, I see a common frailty in humankind. We feel surrounded by evil, by the pressures of the world, so much that our vision begins to deteriorate. The solution is to get our vision checked every day. My suggestion is to make it part of your morning routine. For those of you that wear contacts or glasses, ask God to correct your spiritual vision as you are correcting your physical vision. We know that we can't make it through the day if we can't see. So why do we tolerate spiritual blindness?
I love David's response to his tendency to submit to evil powers. He tells them to go away because God's on his side! "Away from me, all you who do evil, for the LORD has heard my weeping. The LORD has heard my cry for mercy; the LORD accepts my prayer" (Ps. 6:8-9). While David may have been speaking specifically about other human beings, we can stretch the application further. We do need to accept responsibility for our actions. But we must also be aware of our surroundings. God tells us to shun evil. Jesus Himself told Satan, "'Away from me, Satan!'" (Matthew 4:10a). And you know what? Satan then left Him, and angels came to minister to Him (Matt. 4:11). If we are to follow Jesus' example, doesn't it make sense to tell Satan to leave you alone when you are thinking bad thoughts about someone, feeling depressed, or being tempted to act in ways you know are destructive? I have used this strategy, and I've never felt so empowered as a child of God as when I'm telling Satan what not to do and where to go. We have access to God's power because we belong to God.
I pray that today you may experience the power that God provides His children as you face struggles with the assurance that you are His child.
Friday, September 16, 2005
Psalm 5
Sometimes it seems that the people least deserving of it achieve success and its rewards in our world. It's not fair. We work hard, we try to put our trust in God, we try to live godly lives. And yet these unbelieving icons in our culture and even in our workplaces live "the good life." Or so it seems.
David must have had similar feelings. But he knew how to deal with his struggles. "Lead me, O LORD, in your righteousness because of my enemies--make straight your way before me" (Ps. 5:8). He knew that God's way was the right way. And he knew how easy it is to get caught up in the strategies of the world in the pursuit of success, wealth, and so on. The key is to keep focused on God.
Seeing unbelievers living lives of comfort and power can lead one to think that God is rewarding their behaviors. Not so. David knew better, too. He reminded himself, "You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil; with you the wicked cannot dwell" (Ps. 5:4). Some day, it will all come out in the wash.
But how do you make it through each day in this world? Most of us have a bad case of world-weariness. Here are two passages that give some insight into what we should do.
"...[C]onsider my sighing. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation" (Ps. 5:1b-3). God is our Father. He wants us to bring our troubles to Him. He wants us to lean on Him for support. And we ought to expect Him to take care of us. How much it must hurt God when we think that He is not working for our good. What should our attitude be then? "But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you" (Ps. 5:11).
Do not become disheartened by this world. Learn to take refuge in God.
David must have had similar feelings. But he knew how to deal with his struggles. "Lead me, O LORD, in your righteousness because of my enemies--make straight your way before me" (Ps. 5:8). He knew that God's way was the right way. And he knew how easy it is to get caught up in the strategies of the world in the pursuit of success, wealth, and so on. The key is to keep focused on God.
Seeing unbelievers living lives of comfort and power can lead one to think that God is rewarding their behaviors. Not so. David knew better, too. He reminded himself, "You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil; with you the wicked cannot dwell" (Ps. 5:4). Some day, it will all come out in the wash.
But how do you make it through each day in this world? Most of us have a bad case of world-weariness. Here are two passages that give some insight into what we should do.
"...[C]onsider my sighing. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation" (Ps. 5:1b-3). God is our Father. He wants us to bring our troubles to Him. He wants us to lean on Him for support. And we ought to expect Him to take care of us. How much it must hurt God when we think that He is not working for our good. What should our attitude be then? "But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you" (Ps. 5:11).
Do not become disheartened by this world. Learn to take refuge in God.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
We interrupt this broadcast...for an old favorite
As most of you know, this blog began as daily e-mails about my thoughts on the scripture I'd read that morning. I grew up going to church but didn't have a strong relationship with God Himself. In January, having been frustrated and miserable for a variety of reasons, I began reading the Psalms. I met God there--or rather, God met me there. The Psalms ministered to my heart in special ways and supported me in ways that I can describe only as divine. Their solace continued through the weeks that followed my mother's death in March. After I read the Psalms, I moved on to the books of the prophets. I've enjoying reading these passages that are rarely read or discussed in typical church settings. But due to some circumstances of others in my life as well as some of my own emotions, I feel we need to revisit an old friend--the book of Psalms. It may be just for today. It may be for a week. I don't know. Guess I'll just tune in to God's guidance and follow where He leads me. Last night I read over Psalms 1-13. Verses I found encouraging and comforting are given below.
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither" (Ps. 1:1-3a). To put a little spin on the first part of this passage, let's consider who the "wicked" and "sinners" are. Most of us don't hang out with a "rough crowd." But we do know unbelievers. And they may even give some good advice sometimes. But the advice of someone who is not pursuing God's truth is not to be trusted. Their perspective is off. So choose wisely those from whom you seek counsel.
"O LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, 'God will not deliver him.' But you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the LORD I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side...From the LORD comes deliverance" (Ps. 3:1-6, 8a). David, the author of this psalm, had men after him. They wanted him dead. Most of us aren't on the run in that way. But aren't we running from Satan's powers every day? He throws temptations at us constantly--temptations to dishonor God, to say horrible things about people, to continue destructive behaviors. And unfortunately, we do fall. But God can deliver us. But we have to come to God and ask Him to be our rescue when we fall and our shield for future attempts on our lives by the Evil One. (Oh, Satan makes me so mad! I can't wait to help kick his butt in heaven...or at least watch.)
"In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer right sacrifices and trust in the LORD" (Ps. 4:4). This world is a difficult and dangerous place to live in. Life is hard. Horrible things happen. We are justifiably angry. Anger is not a sin. God gets angry. But we must learn to handle our anger appropriately. The first response should be to ask God to help you with it. We love to indulge in good bouts of being mad, ranting about the person who has done us wrong, and feeling sorry for ourselves. But what good can come of that? Does it change the circumstances? And after a time, don't you feel worse? Instead, keep silent, explore your feelings, tell God about them, and ask Him for His guidance. This process, if truly followed, will give you peace, and you will find the fierce emotions of anger have passed or have at least lessened.
"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety" (Ps. 4:8). Here is a very possible result of asking God to deal with your anger, your frustrations, your misery.
"Many are asking, 'Who can show us any good?' Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD. You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound" (Ps. 4:7). Don't you know someone who is negative about everything? Nothing is good enough to make them happy, nothing is going their way, nothing good has happened to them in years or ever, no one is on their side. Maybe that person is you. I have been in that place. I still struggle with those thoughts and attitudes. But I've learned the alternative to living life that way. So please--draw near to God. There are two main ways to do that. First, pray. Ask God to make you very aware of His presence. Ask Him to show you what you need to see and understand and internalize. Second, read what He has said. The Bible is living, in that it has power all the time. It doesn't matter that it is a collection of ancient texts. God does not change. The Bible is His word. He wants to talk to you. It's available. You've just got to read it. Another important task is to develop your spiritual hearing. In other words, learn to tune in to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to us to be our counselor. Focus on that steady voice that you hear and feel deep in the core of your being.
I've gone over only four of the chapters I read last night. I suspect there are more messages from the Psalms to come. I hope that these words have encouraged you and given you some hope. And as always, I wish you...JOY!
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither" (Ps. 1:1-3a). To put a little spin on the first part of this passage, let's consider who the "wicked" and "sinners" are. Most of us don't hang out with a "rough crowd." But we do know unbelievers. And they may even give some good advice sometimes. But the advice of someone who is not pursuing God's truth is not to be trusted. Their perspective is off. So choose wisely those from whom you seek counsel.
"O LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, 'God will not deliver him.' But you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the LORD I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side...From the LORD comes deliverance" (Ps. 3:1-6, 8a). David, the author of this psalm, had men after him. They wanted him dead. Most of us aren't on the run in that way. But aren't we running from Satan's powers every day? He throws temptations at us constantly--temptations to dishonor God, to say horrible things about people, to continue destructive behaviors. And unfortunately, we do fall. But God can deliver us. But we have to come to God and ask Him to be our rescue when we fall and our shield for future attempts on our lives by the Evil One. (Oh, Satan makes me so mad! I can't wait to help kick his butt in heaven...or at least watch.)
"In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer right sacrifices and trust in the LORD" (Ps. 4:4). This world is a difficult and dangerous place to live in. Life is hard. Horrible things happen. We are justifiably angry. Anger is not a sin. God gets angry. But we must learn to handle our anger appropriately. The first response should be to ask God to help you with it. We love to indulge in good bouts of being mad, ranting about the person who has done us wrong, and feeling sorry for ourselves. But what good can come of that? Does it change the circumstances? And after a time, don't you feel worse? Instead, keep silent, explore your feelings, tell God about them, and ask Him for His guidance. This process, if truly followed, will give you peace, and you will find the fierce emotions of anger have passed or have at least lessened.
"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety" (Ps. 4:8). Here is a very possible result of asking God to deal with your anger, your frustrations, your misery.
"Many are asking, 'Who can show us any good?' Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD. You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound" (Ps. 4:7). Don't you know someone who is negative about everything? Nothing is good enough to make them happy, nothing is going their way, nothing good has happened to them in years or ever, no one is on their side. Maybe that person is you. I have been in that place. I still struggle with those thoughts and attitudes. But I've learned the alternative to living life that way. So please--draw near to God. There are two main ways to do that. First, pray. Ask God to make you very aware of His presence. Ask Him to show you what you need to see and understand and internalize. Second, read what He has said. The Bible is living, in that it has power all the time. It doesn't matter that it is a collection of ancient texts. God does not change. The Bible is His word. He wants to talk to you. It's available. You've just got to read it. Another important task is to develop your spiritual hearing. In other words, learn to tune in to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to us to be our counselor. Focus on that steady voice that you hear and feel deep in the core of your being.
I've gone over only four of the chapters I read last night. I suspect there are more messages from the Psalms to come. I hope that these words have encouraged you and given you some hope. And as always, I wish you...JOY!
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Isaiah 7
God gives comfort to Ahaz, the king of Judah, in chapter 7. Two other kings came to attack Judah, but God told Isaiah to give Ahaz the message, "'Be careful, keep calm and don't be afraid'" (Is. 7:4a). He also said that the two kings would not be successful in their plot to ruin Judah. However, God also said, "'If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all'" (Is. 7:9b). God always calls us to trust Him.
However, God then told Ahaz, "'Ask the LORD your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights'" (Is. 7:11). I expected the next section to be an account similar to that of Gideon--putting a piece of wool on the ground, which God kept dry despite the morning dew. "But Ahaz said, 'I will not ask; I will not put the LORD to the test'" (Is. 7:12). Wow. That's faith. And faith like that is rewarded. (See Hebrews 11.)
A well-known passage appears next. "'...[T]he LORD himself will give you a sign: the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel'" (Is. 7:14). Talk about faith! Believing in this is the most important act of faith one can take. But it's just the beginning of many more leaps of faith as we follow God.
I pray that God gives you courage as you face daily decisions to live by faith.
However, God then told Ahaz, "'Ask the LORD your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights'" (Is. 7:11). I expected the next section to be an account similar to that of Gideon--putting a piece of wool on the ground, which God kept dry despite the morning dew. "But Ahaz said, 'I will not ask; I will not put the LORD to the test'" (Is. 7:12). Wow. That's faith. And faith like that is rewarded. (See Hebrews 11.)
A well-known passage appears next. "'...[T]he LORD himself will give you a sign: the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel'" (Is. 7:14). Talk about faith! Believing in this is the most important act of faith one can take. But it's just the beginning of many more leaps of faith as we follow God.
I pray that God gives you courage as you face daily decisions to live by faith.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Isaiah 6
Chapter 6 records Isaiah's vision of God in His temple. Seraphs surrounded Him, and they called, "'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.' At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke" (Is. 6:3-4).
Isaiah, knowing that he was not worthy to see God Almighty, said that he was "ruined" because he was "a man of unclean lips [and lived] among a people of unclean lips" (Is. 6:5). At this, one of the seraphs flew to him (they had 6 wings--2 covering their eyes, 2 covering their feet, and 2 for flying) and touched a piece of coal from the altar to Isaiah's lips, saying that he was then free from guilt and his sin had been atoned for (Is. 6:6-7).
Here is the part that intrigues me. Then God asks, "'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?'" (Is. 6:8a). God needs a messenger to send to His people. And Isaiah immediately replies, "'Here am I. Send me!'" (Is. 6:8b). Once Isaiah knows that he has been cleansed from his sin, he is ready to go. Are we so ready to carry God's message? Not usually. For some, it's an issue of not feeling good enough. We've accepted Jesus as our Savior, but we still feel like we're not worthy to speak on God's behalf. We will never be worthy enough on our own. But Jesus has given us His righteousness, and that makes us "good enough." For others, I don't think we fully understand the significance of our beliefs. Anyone who is not cleansed from his sin will eventually go to hell. If we lived with more of an awareness of this, I think we would be much more likely to take God's message of love to His people.
May God provide you with a heightened awareness of His "big picture" today.
Isaiah, knowing that he was not worthy to see God Almighty, said that he was "ruined" because he was "a man of unclean lips [and lived] among a people of unclean lips" (Is. 6:5). At this, one of the seraphs flew to him (they had 6 wings--2 covering their eyes, 2 covering their feet, and 2 for flying) and touched a piece of coal from the altar to Isaiah's lips, saying that he was then free from guilt and his sin had been atoned for (Is. 6:6-7).
Here is the part that intrigues me. Then God asks, "'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?'" (Is. 6:8a). God needs a messenger to send to His people. And Isaiah immediately replies, "'Here am I. Send me!'" (Is. 6:8b). Once Isaiah knows that he has been cleansed from his sin, he is ready to go. Are we so ready to carry God's message? Not usually. For some, it's an issue of not feeling good enough. We've accepted Jesus as our Savior, but we still feel like we're not worthy to speak on God's behalf. We will never be worthy enough on our own. But Jesus has given us His righteousness, and that makes us "good enough." For others, I don't think we fully understand the significance of our beliefs. Anyone who is not cleansed from his sin will eventually go to hell. If we lived with more of an awareness of this, I think we would be much more likely to take God's message of love to His people.
May God provide you with a heightened awareness of His "big picture" today.
Monday, September 12, 2005
Isaiah 5
In this chapter, God uses the metaphor of a vineyard to talk about Israel and Judah. He says He "cleared it of stones and planted it with the choicest vines. He built a watchtower in it and cut out a winepress as well. Then he looked for a crop of good grapes, but it yielded only bad fruit" (Is. 5:2). His people ignored Him. Therefore, "the great houses will become desolate, the fine mansions left without occupants. A ten-acre vineyard will produce only a bath of wine, a homer of seed only an ephah of grain" (Is. 5:9-10). It is easy to draw comparisons between these descriptions of the lifestyles of Israel in that time and our comfortable and often luxurious lifestyles of today.
Among God's warnings, He warns those "who say, 'Let God hurry, let him hasten his work so we may see it. Let it approach, let the plan of the Holy One of Israel come, so we may know it'" (Is. 5:19). I find this interesting because the message itself isn't so bad. But the juxtaposition of it with their attitudes of apathy and rebellion toward God is the problem. They wanted to see the works of God in their lives, but they didn't want to have to submit to God's direction and authority. Again, we must ask for pure hearts, so that we are an honor to God.
May your hearts and minds be focused on Him.
Among God's warnings, He warns those "who say, 'Let God hurry, let him hasten his work so we may see it. Let it approach, let the plan of the Holy One of Israel come, so we may know it'" (Is. 5:19). I find this interesting because the message itself isn't so bad. But the juxtaposition of it with their attitudes of apathy and rebellion toward God is the problem. They wanted to see the works of God in their lives, but they didn't want to have to submit to God's direction and authority. Again, we must ask for pure hearts, so that we are an honor to God.
May your hearts and minds be focused on Him.
Friday, September 09, 2005
Isaiah 3 and 4
Because chapter 4 is very short and because chapter 3 isn't very uplifting, I'll cover both today.
In chapter 3, God explains what will happen to Jerusalem and Judah because of their disobedience to Him. Neighbors will turn against each other, and "mere children" will become the leaders (Is. 3:4, 5). "O my people, your guides lead you astray; they turn you from the path" (Is. 3:12b). These verses remind me of our pop culture today. Young actors, musicians, and athletes are placed in the spotlight and become role models for our youth. Some young people are wise, but by and large, a society needs to honor the wisdom of its elders.
A warning about women's adornments and the resulting haughtiness appear in verses 16 through 24. Some items mentioned are bangles, earrings, bracelets, ankle chains, sashes, nose rings, purses, and tiaras! (Note: This is not an argument against nose rings, though they do freak me out.) Again, I am reminded of our culture. I have to say it's not just women, though, guys! Years ago, I subscribed to InStyle magazine, a publication devoted to showcasing the preferred beauty products, fashion, and accessories of celebrities. You can take only so much of reading about $200 cotton shirts, $500 shoes, and other ridiculously priced "bling bling." Interesting that God warned against the dangers of being caught up in external appearances in the days of Isaiah--around 750 B.C. Human nature does not change.
Thankfully, neither does the nature of God. Chapter 4 prophesies about the Branch of the LORD--Jesus. "In that day the Branch of the LORD will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel. Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy...." (Is. 4:2-3a). Of course, we know that none of us is able to make himself holy. Jesus is Himself our holiness when we accept His sacrifice of Himself in our stead. God is a merciful God. Furthermore, He is a God of comfort. "Then the LORD will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over all the glory will be a canopy. It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain" (Is. 4:5-6). With our experiences of the extremes of Texas weather, that divine beyond-golf-sized umbrella sounds quite appealing!
May God call you to examine your hearts as well as embrace His loving nature today.
In chapter 3, God explains what will happen to Jerusalem and Judah because of their disobedience to Him. Neighbors will turn against each other, and "mere children" will become the leaders (Is. 3:4, 5). "O my people, your guides lead you astray; they turn you from the path" (Is. 3:12b). These verses remind me of our pop culture today. Young actors, musicians, and athletes are placed in the spotlight and become role models for our youth. Some young people are wise, but by and large, a society needs to honor the wisdom of its elders.
A warning about women's adornments and the resulting haughtiness appear in verses 16 through 24. Some items mentioned are bangles, earrings, bracelets, ankle chains, sashes, nose rings, purses, and tiaras! (Note: This is not an argument against nose rings, though they do freak me out.) Again, I am reminded of our culture. I have to say it's not just women, though, guys! Years ago, I subscribed to InStyle magazine, a publication devoted to showcasing the preferred beauty products, fashion, and accessories of celebrities. You can take only so much of reading about $200 cotton shirts, $500 shoes, and other ridiculously priced "bling bling." Interesting that God warned against the dangers of being caught up in external appearances in the days of Isaiah--around 750 B.C. Human nature does not change.
Thankfully, neither does the nature of God. Chapter 4 prophesies about the Branch of the LORD--Jesus. "In that day the Branch of the LORD will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel. Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy...." (Is. 4:2-3a). Of course, we know that none of us is able to make himself holy. Jesus is Himself our holiness when we accept His sacrifice of Himself in our stead. God is a merciful God. Furthermore, He is a God of comfort. "Then the LORD will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over all the glory will be a canopy. It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain" (Is. 4:5-6). With our experiences of the extremes of Texas weather, that divine beyond-golf-sized umbrella sounds quite appealing!
May God call you to examine your hearts as well as embrace His loving nature today.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Isaiah 2
This chapter discusses the arrogance of man in his creations and successes. The application of this passage to our lives in the 21st century is easy to see.
"Their land is full of silver and gold; there is no end to their treasures. Their land is full of horses; there is no end to their chariots. Their land is full of idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their fingers have made" (Is. 2:7-8). Most of us have assorted pieces of jewelry, we own nice cars (and usually more than one per household). We become absorbed in our work and judge ourselves by what we do, not who we are or even to whom we belong. God's response: "Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?" (Is. 2:22). We live in a land of illusions. We believe the illusion that we are in control. However, times come when we realize the absurdity of this belief. So what then shall we do?
"Come, O house of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the LORD" (Is. 2:5). Walking in the light of God's truth will shed light on all these other issues. May God's light permeate the dark corners in your world today, whether they are of sadness, confusion, or sin that you need to face. And remember He will be there to support you and guide you as you face those obstacles to living a life of joy.
"Their land is full of silver and gold; there is no end to their treasures. Their land is full of horses; there is no end to their chariots. Their land is full of idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their fingers have made" (Is. 2:7-8). Most of us have assorted pieces of jewelry, we own nice cars (and usually more than one per household). We become absorbed in our work and judge ourselves by what we do, not who we are or even to whom we belong. God's response: "Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?" (Is. 2:22). We live in a land of illusions. We believe the illusion that we are in control. However, times come when we realize the absurdity of this belief. So what then shall we do?
"Come, O house of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the LORD" (Is. 2:5). Walking in the light of God's truth will shed light on all these other issues. May God's light permeate the dark corners in your world today, whether they are of sadness, confusion, or sin that you need to face. And remember He will be there to support you and guide you as you face those obstacles to living a life of joy.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Isaiah 1
"Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken: 'I reared children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against me...[M]y people do not understand'" (Is. 1:2, 3b).
Here is another prophet that God sends to His people in an attempt to draw them back to Him. He entreats them to "stop bringing meaningless offerings" (Is. 1:13) and to "stop doing wrong, learn to do right" (Is. 1:16b). I have to ask myself how much it must hurt God when I ask Him for help, but then have bad feelings toward others of His children. How can I tell God I love Him, yet say and do things that do not represent a God of love?
And yet despite their (and our) continued rebellion against Him, God offers redemption. "'Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool'" (Is. 1:18b).
I pray that you are reminded today of how much He loves you. Remember that He removed your sins as far away from you as the east is from the west. You may stumble, but He is always by your side, helping you back up. All you have to do is let Him and then lean on Him to show you your next step.
Here is another prophet that God sends to His people in an attempt to draw them back to Him. He entreats them to "stop bringing meaningless offerings" (Is. 1:13) and to "stop doing wrong, learn to do right" (Is. 1:16b). I have to ask myself how much it must hurt God when I ask Him for help, but then have bad feelings toward others of His children. How can I tell God I love Him, yet say and do things that do not represent a God of love?
And yet despite their (and our) continued rebellion against Him, God offers redemption. "'Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool'" (Is. 1:18b).
I pray that you are reminded today of how much He loves you. Remember that He removed your sins as far away from you as the east is from the west. You may stumble, but He is always by your side, helping you back up. All you have to do is let Him and then lean on Him to show you your next step.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Malachi 4
I hope all of you had a good Labor Day weekend. We did a bit of work around the house, but for the most part, we just rested.
Chapter 4 of Malachi is only 5 verses long. It is a warning/promise of the day of the LORD. It is a warning for those who do wicked, a promise for those who honor God. Verses 2 and 3 are a comfort, especially now in this time of sorrow, grief and loss. "'But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Then you will trample down the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I do these things,' says the LORD Almighty" (Mal. 4:2-3). I look forward to the day when I can trample our main enemy, Satan...or just watch God do it.
I pray that God will bring you healing and strength in the ways you need today.
Chapter 4 of Malachi is only 5 verses long. It is a warning/promise of the day of the LORD. It is a warning for those who do wicked, a promise for those who honor God. Verses 2 and 3 are a comfort, especially now in this time of sorrow, grief and loss. "'But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Then you will trample down the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I do these things,' says the LORD Almighty" (Mal. 4:2-3). I look forward to the day when I can trample our main enemy, Satan...or just watch God do it.
I pray that God will bring you healing and strength in the ways you need today.
Friday, September 02, 2005
Malachi 3
Just by reading verse 1, I know this chapter is going to be a good one! "'See, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,' says the LORD Almighty (Mal. 3:1). It's another Jesus verse.
The next few verses shed light on the day of judgment. Despite His people's negligence (and worse) of Him, God offers them comfort and protection. But God wants the best out of His people. "[W]ho can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner's fire or a launderer's soap...Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the LORD, as in days gone by, as in former years" (Mal. 3:2, 3b-4). Because of God's holy nature, He cannot associate with sin. But because of His loving nature, He cannot tolerate being separated, with no hope of reconciliation, from His children. Therefore, He has created the way for us to become holy--His own Son. In verse 5, He provides comfort by saying He will take of the injustices of this world. "'So I will come near to you for judgment. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive aliens of justice...'" (Mal. 3:5a). However, is any one of us free of sin? Of course not! I think this is why the verse ends this way: "'but do not fear me,' says the LORD Almighty." God will provide vengeance upon those who have tormented their fellow man with wrongdoing, those with hard hearts who do not feel remorse for their actions. As we read in chapter 2, the people of Israel and Judah had been complaining about the prosperity of evildoers, saying that God must be blessing them. They had even gone so far as to say, "'It is futile to serve God. What did we gain by carrying out his requirements...'" (Mal. 3:14a). Reckless words, aren't they? God's response is found in verses 17 and 18: "'(Those who feared the LORD and honored his name) will be mine,' says the LORD Almighty, 'in the day when I make up my treasured possession...And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not'" (Mal. 3:17a, 18).
One of the most reassuring verses in Scripture, in my opinion, is found in verse 6. "'I the LORD do not change'" (Mal. 3:6a). In this chaotic, fast-paced, unpredictable world, there is not much that we can fully trust. And really, there's nothing that is guaranteed. The only person or thing that can never change is God. His nature is constant. I find protection in that. God, the God of second chances, also says, "'Return to me, and I will return to you,'" (Mal. 3:7b).
Despite His expressions of love for His people, or perhaps rather because of it, God points out to His people that their devotion is not as it should be. He tells them that their tithes and offerings are well below par. I have studied about this issue of giving. We must understand that God does not need our money. He can provide ways to do His work without it. Our giving is a lesson in faith. It is for our benefit. We are so bound to our money, that it can easily become what we think is our protection and safety. How deceived we are to believe it. Furthermore, God wants the gift of our time and our attention. Whatever we cling to, when we should be clinging to Him, is a danger to our walk with God. And when we surrend these earthly treasures, God will bless us. It may not be in just the way we'd like or think it will be, but He will bless us. It may not be in the same form that you gave; it may be a revelation of His joy in your life. "'Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,' says the LORD Almighty, 'and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it'" (Mal. 3:10). There have been times when I have felt so much joy because of my assurance of God's love for me that I have felt like I would burst.
Remember that the tithe, as God ordained, was the first produce of a crop. It was giving to God, not knowing what would come later. And that is a huge act of faith. God wants your best. A friend of mine told me about a billboard near her house. It says, "Give God what is right, not what is left over." And really, isn't everything we have a gift from God anyway?
I pray that your belief in a God who will give you His best is strengthened today.
The next few verses shed light on the day of judgment. Despite His people's negligence (and worse) of Him, God offers them comfort and protection. But God wants the best out of His people. "[W]ho can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner's fire or a launderer's soap...Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the LORD, as in days gone by, as in former years" (Mal. 3:2, 3b-4). Because of God's holy nature, He cannot associate with sin. But because of His loving nature, He cannot tolerate being separated, with no hope of reconciliation, from His children. Therefore, He has created the way for us to become holy--His own Son. In verse 5, He provides comfort by saying He will take of the injustices of this world. "'So I will come near to you for judgment. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive aliens of justice...'" (Mal. 3:5a). However, is any one of us free of sin? Of course not! I think this is why the verse ends this way: "'but do not fear me,' says the LORD Almighty." God will provide vengeance upon those who have tormented their fellow man with wrongdoing, those with hard hearts who do not feel remorse for their actions. As we read in chapter 2, the people of Israel and Judah had been complaining about the prosperity of evildoers, saying that God must be blessing them. They had even gone so far as to say, "'It is futile to serve God. What did we gain by carrying out his requirements...'" (Mal. 3:14a). Reckless words, aren't they? God's response is found in verses 17 and 18: "'(Those who feared the LORD and honored his name) will be mine,' says the LORD Almighty, 'in the day when I make up my treasured possession...And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not'" (Mal. 3:17a, 18).
One of the most reassuring verses in Scripture, in my opinion, is found in verse 6. "'I the LORD do not change'" (Mal. 3:6a). In this chaotic, fast-paced, unpredictable world, there is not much that we can fully trust. And really, there's nothing that is guaranteed. The only person or thing that can never change is God. His nature is constant. I find protection in that. God, the God of second chances, also says, "'Return to me, and I will return to you,'" (Mal. 3:7b).
Despite His expressions of love for His people, or perhaps rather because of it, God points out to His people that their devotion is not as it should be. He tells them that their tithes and offerings are well below par. I have studied about this issue of giving. We must understand that God does not need our money. He can provide ways to do His work without it. Our giving is a lesson in faith. It is for our benefit. We are so bound to our money, that it can easily become what we think is our protection and safety. How deceived we are to believe it. Furthermore, God wants the gift of our time and our attention. Whatever we cling to, when we should be clinging to Him, is a danger to our walk with God. And when we surrend these earthly treasures, God will bless us. It may not be in just the way we'd like or think it will be, but He will bless us. It may not be in the same form that you gave; it may be a revelation of His joy in your life. "'Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,' says the LORD Almighty, 'and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it'" (Mal. 3:10). There have been times when I have felt so much joy because of my assurance of God's love for me that I have felt like I would burst.
Remember that the tithe, as God ordained, was the first produce of a crop. It was giving to God, not knowing what would come later. And that is a huge act of faith. God wants your best. A friend of mine told me about a billboard near her house. It says, "Give God what is right, not what is left over." And really, isn't everything we have a gift from God anyway?
I pray that your belief in a God who will give you His best is strengthened today.
Thursday, September 01, 2005
Malachi 2
In the first part of this chapter, God lets the priests have it. They had been dishonoring God in many ways, one of which was by showing "partiality in matters of the law" (Mal. 2:9). "'For the lips of a priest ought to preserve knowledge, and from his mouth men should seek instruction--because he is the messenger of the LORD Almighty. But you have turned from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble; you have violated the covenant with Levi,' says the LORD Almighty" (Mal. 2:7-8). This passage reminds me of James 3:1, which says that those who teach will be judged more harshly, or be held with more responsibility by God. Though many of us are not church leaders, we all should be mindful of this. All of us know someone in our lives who watches what we do. Each of us have others who follow in our footsteps, imitating what we do. So be mindful of what you say and how you act; you could be leading someone else to fall.
The next passage of the chapter deals with the marriages of the people of Judah and Israel. The men were leaving their wives in order to marry foreign, pagan-worshiping women. As a result of this behavior, God did not accept their offerings. "You flood the LORD's altar with tears. You weep and wail because He no longer pays attention to your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands" (Mal. 2:13). But simply not leaving one's spouse is not enough. God calls us to be peacemakers. There should not be strife in your home. As much as it is up to you, create an atmosphere of peace. Examine your heart; ask God to purify it of all the selfish motives that may be decaying your heart.
This world is full of sin. We see people every day become more and more successful, by the world's standards anyway, who are living blatantly and arrogantly in sin. God does not like this. The last verse of Malachi 2 took me by surprise. "You have wearied the LORD with your words. 'How have we wearied Him?' you ask. By saying, 'All who do evil are good in the eyes of the LORD, and He is pleased with them' or 'Where is the God of justice?'" (Mal. 2:17). God does not allow evil because He approves of it. These responses to evil weary God because we do not trust that God knows what He is doing. We presume to know more than God. Those are dangerous waters, my friends. I believe Satan got into the mess he's in (falling from being an angel) by such thinking.
So guard your hearts and your thoughts. As it says in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers (and sisters!), whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
The next passage of the chapter deals with the marriages of the people of Judah and Israel. The men were leaving their wives in order to marry foreign, pagan-worshiping women. As a result of this behavior, God did not accept their offerings. "You flood the LORD's altar with tears. You weep and wail because He no longer pays attention to your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands" (Mal. 2:13). But simply not leaving one's spouse is not enough. God calls us to be peacemakers. There should not be strife in your home. As much as it is up to you, create an atmosphere of peace. Examine your heart; ask God to purify it of all the selfish motives that may be decaying your heart.
This world is full of sin. We see people every day become more and more successful, by the world's standards anyway, who are living blatantly and arrogantly in sin. God does not like this. The last verse of Malachi 2 took me by surprise. "You have wearied the LORD with your words. 'How have we wearied Him?' you ask. By saying, 'All who do evil are good in the eyes of the LORD, and He is pleased with them' or 'Where is the God of justice?'" (Mal. 2:17). God does not allow evil because He approves of it. These responses to evil weary God because we do not trust that God knows what He is doing. We presume to know more than God. Those are dangerous waters, my friends. I believe Satan got into the mess he's in (falling from being an angel) by such thinking.
So guard your hearts and your thoughts. As it says in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers (and sisters!), whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
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