June 30, 2010
Read Isaiah 54 – 59
Isaiah 57:1-2 The righteous perish, and no one ponders it in his heart; devout men are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. 2 Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death.
“THE righteous perish.” That seems against all God says. It makes you wonder, “Why be right with God if I die doing it?”
In Isaiah’s time, evil kings of Jerusalem persecuted and killed God’s people. Isaiah expressed God’s grief. Yet, Isaiah’s message indicates he looked into the face of God, and he saw beyond the terror of persecution.
In his deep and very right relationship with God, Isaiah knew in his soul the peace the righteous experience, “the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil” as they walk God’s right path. And he trusted in the eternal comfort of the right path leading to a joyful contentment entering into God’s presence in death.
And there’s more. Isaiah’s words points to the Great Comfort, the Righteous One, Jesus Christ, who was killed and for whom “no one” cared at all.
And farther into the future, Isaiah points to the righteous Apostles, who walked in peace, even to their death to rest in peace with their Savior.
There is a deep comfort in trusting God through the temporary turmoil, even persecution, in this life into eternal life. Whatever your struggles, walk with God. He promises a wonderful rest as you reside in God’s presence forever.
Rejoice! Be glad! What a gift!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
June 29 The Father's Gift
June 29, 2010
Read Isaiah 49 – 53
Isa 49:6 he says: “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”
I CAN see a 10-year-old son approaching his father. Earlier, the son had disobeyed his father. The father acted as a loving and just father should. He loved his son enough to teach him right from wrong and to punish him when he did wrong. Now his son comes from his room and says, “I’m sorry.”
The father says, “Welcome back. I forgive you. I love you, and I have something special for you.”
“What’s that, dad?” the son asks.
“I think it’s time for you to have that bike you’ve been wanting. It is my gift to you because you have shown today and other days that when you make mistakes, you are sorry. You show you want to live a life honoring your mother and me. The bike is a way I want to reward your heart that honors and obeys us.”
Isaiah prophesies God would welcome his people home from their punishment in Babylon. The people would repent and long for their Father.
God restored them to their land. And he gave them an unimaginable gift of honor and love. The Father gave Israel His Savior.
And the Father’s gift comes to us today when we repent and honor his just law. He offers his love and honor through a Savior for all eternity.
Trust the Father’s gift. Welcome to the family.
Read Isaiah 49 – 53
Isa 49:6 he says: “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”
I CAN see a 10-year-old son approaching his father. Earlier, the son had disobeyed his father. The father acted as a loving and just father should. He loved his son enough to teach him right from wrong and to punish him when he did wrong. Now his son comes from his room and says, “I’m sorry.”
The father says, “Welcome back. I forgive you. I love you, and I have something special for you.”
“What’s that, dad?” the son asks.
“I think it’s time for you to have that bike you’ve been wanting. It is my gift to you because you have shown today and other days that when you make mistakes, you are sorry. You show you want to live a life honoring your mother and me. The bike is a way I want to reward your heart that honors and obeys us.”
Isaiah prophesies God would welcome his people home from their punishment in Babylon. The people would repent and long for their Father.
God restored them to their land. And he gave them an unimaginable gift of honor and love. The Father gave Israel His Savior.
And the Father’s gift comes to us today when we repent and honor his just law. He offers his love and honor through a Savior for all eternity.
Trust the Father’s gift. Welcome to the family.
Why I Minister
Isa 49:5
5 And now the LORD says —
he who formed me in the womb to be his servant
to bring Jacob back to him
and gather Israel to himself,
for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD
and my God has been my strength —
5 And now the LORD says —
he who formed me in the womb to be his servant
to bring Jacob back to him
and gather Israel to himself,
for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD
and my God has been my strength —
Thursday, June 10, 2010
June 28 God's Pleasure is Holiness
June 28, 2010
Read Isaiah 45 - 48
Isaiah 46:9-10 Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.
10 I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.
IT IS good that these words cause us to fear God, and it is good that these words cause us to rejoice in God.
We fear God when we understand God’s pleasure is holiness. He commands his people to display his holiness through living holy lives, following his ways. When his people Israel did not obey, God punished them. And his holiness prevailed. Fear God. He protects his holiness.
And rejoice in these words. There is no other like him; all the world is his. Yes, when you trust God to follow his commands, he will protect you, care for you and bring victory to your life.
Rejoice that God’s purpose of salvation will stand. Be glad that he knows all things until the end of time, and you are in his plans.
Your God is like no other. He is true and righteous. His ways have given you life. Celebrate God. There is none like him.
Read Isaiah 45 - 48
Isaiah 46:9-10 Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.
10 I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.
IT IS good that these words cause us to fear God, and it is good that these words cause us to rejoice in God.
We fear God when we understand God’s pleasure is holiness. He commands his people to display his holiness through living holy lives, following his ways. When his people Israel did not obey, God punished them. And his holiness prevailed. Fear God. He protects his holiness.
And rejoice in these words. There is no other like him; all the world is his. Yes, when you trust God to follow his commands, he will protect you, care for you and bring victory to your life.
Rejoice that God’s purpose of salvation will stand. Be glad that he knows all things until the end of time, and you are in his plans.
Your God is like no other. He is true and righteous. His ways have given you life. Celebrate God. There is none like him.
June 27 God's Forgiveness is For Him
June 27, 2010
Read Isaiah 42 - 44
Isa 43:25 “I—yes, I alone—will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again.”
GOD SAYS something very special here. Do you see it? “I will blot out your sins for my own sake.”
I believe every time we think of God’s forgiveness, we think of it from our point of view. “God has forgiven me, and I am free from that sin.” Yes, it is a wonderful gift!
But something even more amazing occurs when God forgives. He forgives you and me for his sake. What’s that mean?
First it means that God is an extremely loving God, ready to give himself to you. Witness Jesus to the cross. Think of that deep love and desire to forgive, and you will indeed see a benevolent God.
Second, God forgives to draw people to him. News gets around. God’s forgiveness will be known in his nation of Isaiah’s time, and it will eventually become known throughout the world. Christians are everywhere! God is exalted, lifted high in the minds of those who see his great work.
“God makes himself famous,” as one commentator said. And people want to know who he is, and “Can I trust his love and forgiveness?”
God’s extreme love says, “Yes, you can!” And his chosen people seek him. God’s forgiveness is indeed for you—and for Him.
Read Isaiah 42 - 44
Isa 43:25 “I—yes, I alone—will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again.”
GOD SAYS something very special here. Do you see it? “I will blot out your sins for my own sake.”
I believe every time we think of God’s forgiveness, we think of it from our point of view. “God has forgiven me, and I am free from that sin.” Yes, it is a wonderful gift!
But something even more amazing occurs when God forgives. He forgives you and me for his sake. What’s that mean?
First it means that God is an extremely loving God, ready to give himself to you. Witness Jesus to the cross. Think of that deep love and desire to forgive, and you will indeed see a benevolent God.
Second, God forgives to draw people to him. News gets around. God’s forgiveness will be known in his nation of Isaiah’s time, and it will eventually become known throughout the world. Christians are everywhere! God is exalted, lifted high in the minds of those who see his great work.
“God makes himself famous,” as one commentator said. And people want to know who he is, and “Can I trust his love and forgiveness?”
God’s extreme love says, “Yes, you can!” And his chosen people seek him. God’s forgiveness is indeed for you—and for Him.
June 26 God's Glory Comes For You
June 26, 2010
Isaiah 38 – 41
Isa 40:5 And the glory of the LORD will be revealed,
and all mankind together will see it.
A PROMISE reigns throughout the bible. The Glory of the Lord will be revealed.
What is the Glory of the Lord? It is his grace made visible in his gift of love and life to humanity. His Glory is the Law. His Glory is the Grace through Jesus Christ. His Glory is Salvation through his Spirit.
Yes, God’s glory is visible in many ways, but the greatest evidence of his love for you is Christ crucified and the Spirit come. Everything in the Old Testament points to Jesus coming. Then Jesus comes to glorify the Father through his teaching, his healing, his love, and his grace. His glory shines bright on the day of resurrection, and brighter still on the day of his ascension.
And now the Holy Spirit has come to teach us of Jesus and point to Jesus coming again. On that day God’s Glory will be revealed in bright light, great sound and incomparable majesty. All humanity will see him as he comes on the clouds.
Oh, yes, my friends. Live your life in the joy of trusting Jesus, the Glory of God come to earth, ascended to heaven, coming again.
From Rev 1:5-7 To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father — to him be glory and power forever and ever! Amen. 7 Look, he is coming with the clouds , and every eye will see him.
Look, he is coming. Are you ready to welcome him?
Isaiah 38 – 41
Isa 40:5 And the glory of the LORD will be revealed,
and all mankind together will see it.
A PROMISE reigns throughout the bible. The Glory of the Lord will be revealed.
What is the Glory of the Lord? It is his grace made visible in his gift of love and life to humanity. His Glory is the Law. His Glory is the Grace through Jesus Christ. His Glory is Salvation through his Spirit.
Yes, God’s glory is visible in many ways, but the greatest evidence of his love for you is Christ crucified and the Spirit come. Everything in the Old Testament points to Jesus coming. Then Jesus comes to glorify the Father through his teaching, his healing, his love, and his grace. His glory shines bright on the day of resurrection, and brighter still on the day of his ascension.
And now the Holy Spirit has come to teach us of Jesus and point to Jesus coming again. On that day God’s Glory will be revealed in bright light, great sound and incomparable majesty. All humanity will see him as he comes on the clouds.
Oh, yes, my friends. Live your life in the joy of trusting Jesus, the Glory of God come to earth, ascended to heaven, coming again.
From Rev 1:5-7 To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father — to him be glory and power forever and ever! Amen. 7 Look, he is coming with the clouds , and every eye will see him.
Look, he is coming. Are you ready to welcome him?
June 25 Dramatic Change
June 24, 2010
Read Isaiah 34 – 37
Isaiah 35:5-6 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. 6 Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.
Isa 35:10 Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
DRAMATIC CHANGE. That’s what God is about. He makes the blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear and the mute laugh. He floods the desert. What’s more. God gives life to you!
Yes, you are the result of dramatic change. You once were not, and now you are. You once were dead to sin. If you call on Jesus as Lord, you are now alive in Christ.
Dust to rain, death to life, that’s our God. But there’s more. When the rain changes dry dust to fertile soil, something else needs to happen for the soil to bear fruit. Seeds need to be planted, nurtured and harvested.
When God changes you from death to life, you have a responsibility. You are to plant the seeds of knowing God in your mind. Your mind is prepared to know him. Your heart is prepared to harvest a love for him. How will you plant that knowledge and harvest that love?
Seek his Word. Fill your life with him—God in the morning, God at midday, God in the evening—rain God down on your life. Trusting God brings dramatic change to you. Thank you, God.
Read Isaiah 34 – 37
Isaiah 35:5-6 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. 6 Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.
Isa 35:10 Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
DRAMATIC CHANGE. That’s what God is about. He makes the blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear and the mute laugh. He floods the desert. What’s more. God gives life to you!
Yes, you are the result of dramatic change. You once were not, and now you are. You once were dead to sin. If you call on Jesus as Lord, you are now alive in Christ.
Dust to rain, death to life, that’s our God. But there’s more. When the rain changes dry dust to fertile soil, something else needs to happen for the soil to bear fruit. Seeds need to be planted, nurtured and harvested.
When God changes you from death to life, you have a responsibility. You are to plant the seeds of knowing God in your mind. Your mind is prepared to know him. Your heart is prepared to harvest a love for him. How will you plant that knowledge and harvest that love?
Seek his Word. Fill your life with him—God in the morning, God at midday, God in the evening—rain God down on your life. Trusting God brings dramatic change to you. Thank you, God.
June 24 Is There a Peace About You?
June 24, 2010
Isaiah 30 - 33
Isa 32:18 My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.
LOOK AT the word “my”. “My people” implies a very special truth: those who obey God belong to God. And when you belong to God, something wonderful happens. You live in peace.
Oh, I know, believing that Jesus is y our Lord and Savior doesn’t guarantee worldly peace. Things happen. Illnesses, job loss, and other trials come along in life through no fault of yours.
But there are things you do control—essentially they come under the category of moral standards. Moral standards are the rules you live by because you follow God’s truth. Moral standards give you the means to choose right from wrong.
For example, a person who lives with moral standards is willing to forgive people when they insult him. This forgiveness leads to reconciliation and peace. His life is peaceful.
Moral standards are the life acts of “Loving God.” and “Loving your neighbors as yourself”. When you live this way, you will live in “peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.”
Jesus as your Lord doesn’t guarantee peace outside of you. But trusting Jesus as Lord guarantees peace inside you. That’s what happens when you belong to God.
Isaiah 30 - 33
Isa 32:18 My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.
LOOK AT the word “my”. “My people” implies a very special truth: those who obey God belong to God. And when you belong to God, something wonderful happens. You live in peace.
Oh, I know, believing that Jesus is y our Lord and Savior doesn’t guarantee worldly peace. Things happen. Illnesses, job loss, and other trials come along in life through no fault of yours.
But there are things you do control—essentially they come under the category of moral standards. Moral standards are the rules you live by because you follow God’s truth. Moral standards give you the means to choose right from wrong.
For example, a person who lives with moral standards is willing to forgive people when they insult him. This forgiveness leads to reconciliation and peace. His life is peaceful.
Moral standards are the life acts of “Loving God.” and “Loving your neighbors as yourself”. When you live this way, you will live in “peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.”
Jesus as your Lord doesn’t guarantee peace outside of you. But trusting Jesus as Lord guarantees peace inside you. That’s what happens when you belong to God.
June 23 Is Worship a Big Deal?
June 23, 2010
Read Isaiah 25 - 29
Isa 29:13-14 And so the Lord says, “Since these people say they are mine but they do not obey me, and since their worship amounts to mere words learned by rote, 14 therefore I will take awesome vengeance on these hypocrites and make their wisest counselors as fools.”
“WORSHIP”. We use the term loosely don’t we? Worship service, worship music, worship time, etc. God’s Word has caused me here to pause and consider carefully what it is to worship. God takes worship very seriously.
From the time of Cain and Abel, God has required his people to approach him with a sense of awe, a commitment to sacrifice, and a heart to honor him. Worship begins in the deep recesses of the heart and leads to an explosion of joy, praise and emotion – sometimes tears – in gratitude and love for God.
At least that’s the way I picture it. Worship is about trusting God, preparing your heart to experience him. Worship is about coming into a place and being silent to open your mind to receive God’s Word. Worship is preparing your tongue to praise him. Worship is about listening to the Word of God, so you can obey his precious teachings and his vital commands to bring you into his love.
Yes, worship is your heart’s trust approach to God. Take worship seriously. God does. Does he have your heart of worship?
Read Isaiah 25 - 29
Isa 29:13-14 And so the Lord says, “Since these people say they are mine but they do not obey me, and since their worship amounts to mere words learned by rote, 14 therefore I will take awesome vengeance on these hypocrites and make their wisest counselors as fools.”
“WORSHIP”. We use the term loosely don’t we? Worship service, worship music, worship time, etc. God’s Word has caused me here to pause and consider carefully what it is to worship. God takes worship very seriously.
From the time of Cain and Abel, God has required his people to approach him with a sense of awe, a commitment to sacrifice, and a heart to honor him. Worship begins in the deep recesses of the heart and leads to an explosion of joy, praise and emotion – sometimes tears – in gratitude and love for God.
At least that’s the way I picture it. Worship is about trusting God, preparing your heart to experience him. Worship is about coming into a place and being silent to open your mind to receive God’s Word. Worship is preparing your tongue to praise him. Worship is about listening to the Word of God, so you can obey his precious teachings and his vital commands to bring you into his love.
Yes, worship is your heart’s trust approach to God. Take worship seriously. God does. Does he have your heart of worship?
June 22 You Know What to Do
June 22, 2010
Read Isaiah 20 - 24
Isa 24:23 The moon will be abashed, the sun ashamed;
for the LORD Almighty will reign on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, and before its elders, gloriously.
AS YOU read these chapters, you probably shuddered at the severity of God’s judgment. I want you to think about this as you consider people you know who do not know Jesus as Lord.
The devastation described here is nothing compared to the eternal destruction of Hell. In Hell there is no release from agony—forever. Think of the worst pain you’ve experienced. Magnify it a great deal. Then think of living in this torment forever. Go ahead. Shudder.
Why do I focus on torment? I think we ignore judgment and Hell way too much, even deny its existence for the unsaved soul. We rationalize not telling people of Jesus’ love by saying of Hell, “It’s not so bad.” But it is bad. It’s horrible beyond understanding.
And in that torment, people will be separated from the Glory of God forever. The glory described above is brighter than the moon and sun. God’s Glory stretches throughout creation. And his mighty power is made known.
A mighty God, who is judge and savior, has created you. Are you saved from judgment? Are your friends and family? Neighbors? Co-workers?
If you answered, “No.” or “I don’t know.” to those questions, you know what to do.
Read Isaiah 20 - 24
Isa 24:23 The moon will be abashed, the sun ashamed;
for the LORD Almighty will reign on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, and before its elders, gloriously.
AS YOU read these chapters, you probably shuddered at the severity of God’s judgment. I want you to think about this as you consider people you know who do not know Jesus as Lord.
The devastation described here is nothing compared to the eternal destruction of Hell. In Hell there is no release from agony—forever. Think of the worst pain you’ve experienced. Magnify it a great deal. Then think of living in this torment forever. Go ahead. Shudder.
Why do I focus on torment? I think we ignore judgment and Hell way too much, even deny its existence for the unsaved soul. We rationalize not telling people of Jesus’ love by saying of Hell, “It’s not so bad.” But it is bad. It’s horrible beyond understanding.
And in that torment, people will be separated from the Glory of God forever. The glory described above is brighter than the moon and sun. God’s Glory stretches throughout creation. And his mighty power is made known.
A mighty God, who is judge and savior, has created you. Are you saved from judgment? Are your friends and family? Neighbors? Co-workers?
If you answered, “No.” or “I don’t know.” to those questions, you know what to do.
June 21 God's Clean Up Power
June 21
Isaiah 15 – 19
Isaiah 16:4-6 Let the Moabite fugitives stay with you; be their shelter from the destroyer.”The oppressor will come to an end, and destruction will cease; the aggressor will vanish from the land. 5 In love a throne will be established; in faithfulness a man will sit on it — one from the house of David — one who in judging seeks justice and speeds the cause of righteousness. 6 We have heard of Moab's pride — her overweening pride and conceit, her pride and her insolence — but her boasts are empty.
GOD RULES ALL, even the countries that oppose Israel.
This section of Isaiah shows us in two ways God ruled over the countries around Israel. First of all, God uses these countries to punish his wayward children, Israel. They dishonored God and made a mess of their lives.
Second, as Israel turns from their mess and back to God, God will destroy Israel’s enemies to protect Israel from future harm.
Sometimes in our lives we walk too far from God. We make a mess of things, and he needs to break us to pay attention to him. So he will bring to us trials and challenges. He will give us things we can’t handle. He wants you to rely on him for the cleanup job. He wants to handle it!
From Isaiah comes this lesson of God’s love: The mess will be too big for you, but it’s not too big for God. Trust God, and He will rule over the mess. He will clean it up.
Isaiah 15 – 19
Isaiah 16:4-6 Let the Moabite fugitives stay with you; be their shelter from the destroyer.”The oppressor will come to an end, and destruction will cease; the aggressor will vanish from the land. 5 In love a throne will be established; in faithfulness a man will sit on it — one from the house of David — one who in judging seeks justice and speeds the cause of righteousness. 6 We have heard of Moab's pride — her overweening pride and conceit, her pride and her insolence — but her boasts are empty.
GOD RULES ALL, even the countries that oppose Israel.
This section of Isaiah shows us in two ways God ruled over the countries around Israel. First of all, God uses these countries to punish his wayward children, Israel. They dishonored God and made a mess of their lives.
Second, as Israel turns from their mess and back to God, God will destroy Israel’s enemies to protect Israel from future harm.
Sometimes in our lives we walk too far from God. We make a mess of things, and he needs to break us to pay attention to him. So he will bring to us trials and challenges. He will give us things we can’t handle. He wants you to rely on him for the cleanup job. He wants to handle it!
From Isaiah comes this lesson of God’s love: The mess will be too big for you, but it’s not too big for God. Trust God, and He will rule over the mess. He will clean it up.
June 19 Grow a Great Vineyard
June 19, 2010
Read Isaiah 5 – 9
Isaiah 5:1-2
1 I will sing for the one I love
a song about his vineyard:
My loved one had a vineyard
on a fertile hillside.
2 He dug it up and 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.
THE BIBLE is written in many forms. One of the forms is poetry as shown in these verses. Poetry says “the usual in unusual ways”. Here we have the image of Israel in Isaiah’s day.
Isaiah speaks of God as the “loved one” and Israel as a vineyard. Do you see what the “loved one” did? He made a vineyard on the fertile hillside (Israel is dominated by mountains.), and planted good fruit (God’s people).
But something went wrong. The good fruit produced bad fruit. In other words, God’s people had the opportunity to use his gifts to them and to enjoy his blessings, but they turned from him. All went wrong.
God’s vineyard was devastated. It yielded no good fruit. As a good vintner does, he cleaned out his vineyard to begin again.
Now I ask you this. Has God planted a vineyard in your life? In other words, has he given you his love and his truth so you can be good fruit? I believe he has. Trust his gifts to you. Use them to grow good fruit for God.
Read Isaiah 5 – 9
Isaiah 5:1-2
1 I will sing for the one I love
a song about his vineyard:
My loved one had a vineyard
on a fertile hillside.
2 He dug it up and 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.
THE BIBLE is written in many forms. One of the forms is poetry as shown in these verses. Poetry says “the usual in unusual ways”. Here we have the image of Israel in Isaiah’s day.
Isaiah speaks of God as the “loved one” and Israel as a vineyard. Do you see what the “loved one” did? He made a vineyard on the fertile hillside (Israel is dominated by mountains.), and planted good fruit (God’s people).
But something went wrong. The good fruit produced bad fruit. In other words, God’s people had the opportunity to use his gifts to them and to enjoy his blessings, but they turned from him. All went wrong.
God’s vineyard was devastated. It yielded no good fruit. As a good vintner does, he cleaned out his vineyard to begin again.
Now I ask you this. Has God planted a vineyard in your life? In other words, has he given you his love and his truth so you can be good fruit? I believe he has. Trust his gifts to you. Use them to grow good fruit for God.
June 18 Go Up to the Mountain
June 18, 2010
Read Isaiah 2 – 4
Isa 2:3 Many people will come and say,“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.”
ONE of the images that often recurs in Scripture is that of going to God on the mountain. Of course, this image comes from the book of Exodus as it describes Moses going to God on the mountain to meet him and receive the Ten Commandments.
This image of going to God usually occurs in times of very severe trouble. Here, Isaiah calls on his people to go to God because they have been very disobedient. They are worshiping idols. They are at war with other nations. They are separated from God, and God uses Isaiah to in effect say, “Come on up. I want you here with me!”
Yes, Isaiah invites his people to spiritually go up to God to learn of God’s wonderful ways. When they do, “He will judge between the nations
and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares
and their spears into pruning hooks.” (Isa 2:4) Isaiah is saying, “God will bring peace to your lives forever—just go to him!”
Are you seeking rest from life’s distress? Go on “up” to God. Find out where he is—in a church, in a quiet time with the bible, in a time of prayer alone or with a friend, or in a conversation with your pastor.
Trust your God, who is on his mountain. Go where he is and walk with him on his pathways. Enjoy a peace in your heart only he can give to you.
Read Isaiah 2 – 4
Isa 2:3 Many people will come and say,“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.”
ONE of the images that often recurs in Scripture is that of going to God on the mountain. Of course, this image comes from the book of Exodus as it describes Moses going to God on the mountain to meet him and receive the Ten Commandments.
This image of going to God usually occurs in times of very severe trouble. Here, Isaiah calls on his people to go to God because they have been very disobedient. They are worshiping idols. They are at war with other nations. They are separated from God, and God uses Isaiah to in effect say, “Come on up. I want you here with me!”
Yes, Isaiah invites his people to spiritually go up to God to learn of God’s wonderful ways. When they do, “He will judge between the nations
and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares
and their spears into pruning hooks.” (Isa 2:4) Isaiah is saying, “God will bring peace to your lives forever—just go to him!”
Are you seeking rest from life’s distress? Go on “up” to God. Find out where he is—in a church, in a quiet time with the bible, in a time of prayer alone or with a friend, or in a conversation with your pastor.
Trust your God, who is on his mountain. Go where he is and walk with him on his pathways. Enjoy a peace in your heart only he can give to you.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
June 17 The LORD Has Spoken
June 17, 2010
Read Isaiah 1
Isaiah 1: 1-2 The vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem that Isaiah son of Amoz saw during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.
2 Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken:
WHAT DO you need to know when you sign up to go to a conference? You check out the speakers. You learn their credentials. After all you are trusting someone with your money. And you want to trust what they have to say is true and an advantage to you.
Many books of the bible begin this way. The writer tells who he is and what qualifies him to write. Isaiah’s qualification is this:
God has given him a picture of what will happen in Judah, the Southern Kingdom of Israel (the Northern Kingdom is Samaria) and in the city of Jerusalem. It’s as if Isaiah received a DVD in his mailbox, played it and saw the future.
Isaiah’s authority comes from God’s “movie” to him. He has seen it. Now he is going to tell his people what he sees. He has a message from God. He trusts that it is true, and he trusts its authority. He knows if people listen to the truth of what God has told him, it will be an advantage to them.
What God told them then is still of value, it is still a message that is an advantage to us. Let’s trust the message.
Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken.
Read Isaiah 1
Isaiah 1: 1-2 The vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem that Isaiah son of Amoz saw during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.
2 Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken:
WHAT DO you need to know when you sign up to go to a conference? You check out the speakers. You learn their credentials. After all you are trusting someone with your money. And you want to trust what they have to say is true and an advantage to you.
Many books of the bible begin this way. The writer tells who he is and what qualifies him to write. Isaiah’s qualification is this:
God has given him a picture of what will happen in Judah, the Southern Kingdom of Israel (the Northern Kingdom is Samaria) and in the city of Jerusalem. It’s as if Isaiah received a DVD in his mailbox, played it and saw the future.
Isaiah’s authority comes from God’s “movie” to him. He has seen it. Now he is going to tell his people what he sees. He has a message from God. He trusts that it is true, and he trusts its authority. He knows if people listen to the truth of what God has told him, it will be an advantage to them.
What God told them then is still of value, it is still a message that is an advantage to us. Let’s trust the message.
Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken.
June 16 What Are Your Final Words?
June 16, 2010
Read Ecclesiastes 9 – 12
Eccl 12:13-14 That's the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone's duty. 14 God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.
THAT’S IT. Do you want to know the secret of life, of happiness, of peace, of hope, of joy, of trusting God?
It is right here for you. Solomon had wisdom, and he had huge issues. He didn’t finish life well. God honored him with great wisdom, wealth, fame, and power. But Solomon ended life in great despair and depression.
He turned away from God. He ignored God’s commands to not marry an Egyptian wife. He ignored God’s commands to not have many wives—he had thousands of wives and concubines!
Many worshiped false gods. Solomon got too close to the false gods, too far away from the real God.
So he knows what he’s talking about. He’s a man sitting by a car wreck saying, “Don’t drive too fast.’ He’s the lung cancer patient saying, “Don’t smoke.” He’s the adulterer with AIDS saying, “Be faithful to your spouse.”
What will you say at the end of life? Will you share your regrets? Or will you tell your family, “I trusted God’s commands. And he blessed me.”
Read Ecclesiastes 9 – 12
Eccl 12:13-14 That's the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone's duty. 14 God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.
THAT’S IT. Do you want to know the secret of life, of happiness, of peace, of hope, of joy, of trusting God?
It is right here for you. Solomon had wisdom, and he had huge issues. He didn’t finish life well. God honored him with great wisdom, wealth, fame, and power. But Solomon ended life in great despair and depression.
He turned away from God. He ignored God’s commands to not marry an Egyptian wife. He ignored God’s commands to not have many wives—he had thousands of wives and concubines!
Many worshiped false gods. Solomon got too close to the false gods, too far away from the real God.
So he knows what he’s talking about. He’s a man sitting by a car wreck saying, “Don’t drive too fast.’ He’s the lung cancer patient saying, “Don’t smoke.” He’s the adulterer with AIDS saying, “Be faithful to your spouse.”
What will you say at the end of life? Will you share your regrets? Or will you tell your family, “I trusted God’s commands. And he blessed me.”
June 15 Funeral Better Than a Party?
June 15, 2010
Eclesiastés 5 - 8
Eccl 7:2 Better to spend your time at funerals than at parties. After all, everyone dies.
WOW. Solomon is really down! A funeral is better than a party? Is that any way to look at life and the life of salvation God offers to us in Jesus Christ?
Actually, it is one way to look at life. People really do need to know that one day they will die—unless Jesus comes back first. But in either case, life as we know it on earth ends. And when life on earth ends, there are two options for the next part of life—Hell or Heaven.
We don’t like to think about that. We’d rather think about it when it’s “time”. But who knows when that time is? Who wants to get to the time of death too quickly or unprepared?
To be prepared, we must seriously consider that we will die and our souls will live a state of eternal punishment or eternal joy. What’s more, it is proper to consider, “What legacy will I leave? Why does it matter that I live?” To answer that we must know to what purpose God has called us.
Yes, funerals are more profitable than parties. Not because we are depressed, but it is because we must consider how we can live life to our purpose and in our greatest joy in our life of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Trusting Christ with your life will give you that purpose and that joy.
Eclesiastés 5 - 8
Eccl 7:2 Better to spend your time at funerals than at parties. After all, everyone dies.
WOW. Solomon is really down! A funeral is better than a party? Is that any way to look at life and the life of salvation God offers to us in Jesus Christ?
Actually, it is one way to look at life. People really do need to know that one day they will die—unless Jesus comes back first. But in either case, life as we know it on earth ends. And when life on earth ends, there are two options for the next part of life—Hell or Heaven.
We don’t like to think about that. We’d rather think about it when it’s “time”. But who knows when that time is? Who wants to get to the time of death too quickly or unprepared?
To be prepared, we must seriously consider that we will die and our souls will live a state of eternal punishment or eternal joy. What’s more, it is proper to consider, “What legacy will I leave? Why does it matter that I live?” To answer that we must know to what purpose God has called us.
Yes, funerals are more profitable than parties. Not because we are depressed, but it is because we must consider how we can live life to our purpose and in our greatest joy in our life of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Trusting Christ with your life will give you that purpose and that joy.
June 14 Where's the Meaning of Life?
June 14, 2010
Ecclesiastes 1 - 4
Eccl 2:11 But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere.
ECCLESIASTES is such a sad book. Here’s a guy—Solomon—with everything any man could want. But in reality he has nothing.
He is never satisfied. He always wants more of something. And in his pursuit of “more” he, unfortunately finds more of one thing. He discovers more hopelessness and despair because he is still empty.
Many people say the bible is irrelevant in our world today. Here’s one example of its reality for our lives right now. Every negative aspect of what’s happened in our country’s economy is the result of people always seeking more. They contrived ways to gather great wealth at the expense of the nation. Their greed has crippled a country and sent hundreds of thousands to the unemployment line.
The bible doesn’t condemn good and honest work. But it condemns pursuit of temporary wealth to bring eternal happiness. The temporary never satisfies the eternal.
Solomon learned that long ago. Now he has told you. Will you listen?
Ecclesiastes 1 - 4
Eccl 2:11 But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere.
ECCLESIASTES is such a sad book. Here’s a guy—Solomon—with everything any man could want. But in reality he has nothing.
He is never satisfied. He always wants more of something. And in his pursuit of “more” he, unfortunately finds more of one thing. He discovers more hopelessness and despair because he is still empty.
Many people say the bible is irrelevant in our world today. Here’s one example of its reality for our lives right now. Every negative aspect of what’s happened in our country’s economy is the result of people always seeking more. They contrived ways to gather great wealth at the expense of the nation. Their greed has crippled a country and sent hundreds of thousands to the unemployment line.
The bible doesn’t condemn good and honest work. But it condemns pursuit of temporary wealth to bring eternal happiness. The temporary never satisfies the eternal.
Solomon learned that long ago. Now he has told you. Will you listen?
June 13 A Woman of Virtue
June 13, 2010
Proverbs 31
Prov 31:10 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies.
HEY GUYS, do you want to give your wife a great gift? Write out Prov 31:10-31 and tell her, “This is you, Sweetheart.”
Hey, ladies. Want to feel good about yourself? Read these verses and consider the blessings of virtue. Apply them to your life.
I know women of virtue. I’m married to one. My mother is one. My daughter is one. (I’m not bragging. I’m thankful and rejoicing.) I know women of virtue in our church. I see women of virtue in the community.
They’re easy to spot. They have joy in their lives. They confess Christ in their lives. They praise the Holy Spirit in their thoughts. They love God, and that love extends to their family, their church, their friends, their work and their neighbors.
Yes, virtue is easy to spot. It is so different than sin. Virtue shines. Virtue glows. Virtue gives a woman a reputation of love and peace in her life.
Proverbs 31
Prov 31:10 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies.
HEY GUYS, do you want to give your wife a great gift? Write out Prov 31:10-31 and tell her, “This is you, Sweetheart.”
Hey, ladies. Want to feel good about yourself? Read these verses and consider the blessings of virtue. Apply them to your life.
I know women of virtue. I’m married to one. My mother is one. My daughter is one. (I’m not bragging. I’m thankful and rejoicing.) I know women of virtue in our church. I see women of virtue in the community.
They’re easy to spot. They have joy in their lives. They confess Christ in their lives. They praise the Holy Spirit in their thoughts. They love God, and that love extends to their family, their church, their friends, their work and their neighbors.
Yes, virtue is easy to spot. It is so different than sin. Virtue shines. Virtue glows. Virtue gives a woman a reputation of love and peace in her life.
June 12 A Just Right Life
June 12, 2010
Proverbs 29 - 30
Prov 30:7-8 O God, I beg two favors from you; let me have them before I die. 8 First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.
MOM’S perplexed at the dinner table. Larry, the little one, picks at his food. Mom knows he’ll be hungry later, and she’ll have to help him find a snack. Tom, her oldest, eats too much. He’s overweight. Mom wonders how she’ll get him to eat less. He’s always after more. And Millie, in the middle, eats what she needs, no more, no less. Mom has no concerns about Millie.
This is life, isn’t it? Too little for some, too much for others, just right for many. The Wisdom Writer offers to us a great prayer to live “just right”. Some people think it’s fine to pick at life—never having the right job or right relationships, they are poor. They rely on others to help them and are a burden on family, friends and society.
And being rich is fine, but sometimes it makes us “fat”. We consume too much and focus our efforts on getting more, losing time for joy in our lives.
Others live a satisfied life. They do what they must to earn a good living. They have time for friends and family. They appreciate all they have.
This is a healthy prayer for all of us. Pray it often and trust God to bless you with a “just right” life.
Proverbs 29 - 30
Prov 30:7-8 O God, I beg two favors from you; let me have them before I die. 8 First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.
MOM’S perplexed at the dinner table. Larry, the little one, picks at his food. Mom knows he’ll be hungry later, and she’ll have to help him find a snack. Tom, her oldest, eats too much. He’s overweight. Mom wonders how she’ll get him to eat less. He’s always after more. And Millie, in the middle, eats what she needs, no more, no less. Mom has no concerns about Millie.
This is life, isn’t it? Too little for some, too much for others, just right for many. The Wisdom Writer offers to us a great prayer to live “just right”. Some people think it’s fine to pick at life—never having the right job or right relationships, they are poor. They rely on others to help them and are a burden on family, friends and society.
And being rich is fine, but sometimes it makes us “fat”. We consume too much and focus our efforts on getting more, losing time for joy in our lives.
Others live a satisfied life. They do what they must to earn a good living. They have time for friends and family. They appreciate all they have.
This is a healthy prayer for all of us. Pray it often and trust God to bless you with a “just right” life.
Wise Talk
June 11, 2010
Proverbs 26 - 28
Prov 26:4-5 Don't answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are. 5 Be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools, or they will become wise in their own estimation.
THIS ONE stopped me in my tracks. Is God talking out of both sides of his mouth?
No, of course not. Only a fool would say that! What God is conveying through the wisdom writer is this: When someone speaks to you foolishly, do not engage in the same kind of foolish talk. Instead respond to the foolish talk in a “non-foolish” (wise) way.
For example, someone might tell you how ridiculous your clothes look. Do not respond to that person with your opinion of her “ridiculous clothes” (even if it’s true). It is foolish to respond with foolish talk.
Instead, you would respond wisely to her with words of kindness about her clothes, tell her how nice she looked. In other words, you would elevate the conversation out of criticism into praise. And when you do, the “foolish talker” may come to an understanding that her words are harmful. And hopefully she will change her foolish speech to wisdom.
If she doesn’t, there’s nothing you can do about her. But you can always be wise and control your own speech, your own thoughts and your own actions toward others.
Know God’s wisdom. And speak God’s wisdom. People will come to trust you. And in you they will see a Godly person. And they will come to trust God.
Proverbs 26 - 28
Prov 26:4-5 Don't answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are. 5 Be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools, or they will become wise in their own estimation.
THIS ONE stopped me in my tracks. Is God talking out of both sides of his mouth?
No, of course not. Only a fool would say that! What God is conveying through the wisdom writer is this: When someone speaks to you foolishly, do not engage in the same kind of foolish talk. Instead respond to the foolish talk in a “non-foolish” (wise) way.
For example, someone might tell you how ridiculous your clothes look. Do not respond to that person with your opinion of her “ridiculous clothes” (even if it’s true). It is foolish to respond with foolish talk.
Instead, you would respond wisely to her with words of kindness about her clothes, tell her how nice she looked. In other words, you would elevate the conversation out of criticism into praise. And when you do, the “foolish talker” may come to an understanding that her words are harmful. And hopefully she will change her foolish speech to wisdom.
If she doesn’t, there’s nothing you can do about her. But you can always be wise and control your own speech, your own thoughts and your own actions toward others.
Know God’s wisdom. And speak God’s wisdom. People will come to trust you. And in you they will see a Godly person. And they will come to trust God.
June 10 Have an Ice Cream
June 10, 2010
Read Proverbs 23 – 25
Prov 25:14 People who promise things that they never give are like clouds and wind that bring no rain. (TEV)
I HAD invited someone over to help me with a project. I planned on getting the work done, then having some time for a little recreation and maybe an ice cream treat. I wanted to reward the one who came to help.
But he never came. I talked to him later, and he had said it hadn’t worked out as he thought. He wondered if he could come later. I said I’d completed the work and no longer needed him.
It was easy to judge and even condemn the person. But then I thought, “Have I ever done that to God?” What do I do when he asks me to perhaps go on a mission trip, or I get a call to help a neighbor in need? Do I think, “Not now. Something’s come up. Maybe next time.”
I think we all do that, don’t we? We want God to adjust his work to our schedule. But when you have those thoughts, it’s God’s Spirit inviting you to join him. He wants you to work with him, and he wants to bless you, reward you—“have an ice cream”—for your work.
When he invites, go. Don’t disappoint him. Or he’ll find someone else. And you’ll miss out on his blessing.
Read Proverbs 23 – 25
Prov 25:14 People who promise things that they never give are like clouds and wind that bring no rain. (TEV)
I HAD invited someone over to help me with a project. I planned on getting the work done, then having some time for a little recreation and maybe an ice cream treat. I wanted to reward the one who came to help.
But he never came. I talked to him later, and he had said it hadn’t worked out as he thought. He wondered if he could come later. I said I’d completed the work and no longer needed him.
It was easy to judge and even condemn the person. But then I thought, “Have I ever done that to God?” What do I do when he asks me to perhaps go on a mission trip, or I get a call to help a neighbor in need? Do I think, “Not now. Something’s come up. Maybe next time.”
I think we all do that, don’t we? We want God to adjust his work to our schedule. But when you have those thoughts, it’s God’s Spirit inviting you to join him. He wants you to work with him, and he wants to bless you, reward you—“have an ice cream”—for your work.
When he invites, go. Don’t disappoint him. Or he’ll find someone else. And you’ll miss out on his blessing.
Be a Good Dad
June 9, 2010
Read Proverbs 20 - 22
Prov 20:7 Children are fortunate if they have a father who is honest and does what is right.
FOR ALL you dads out there, for all who want to be a dad, or married to a dad, here is the key to family security. Here’s the simple rule of fatherhood. Here’s the simple rule of being a good man and guiding your children to a secure and good life.
How do you know what it is to be honest and to do what is right? There are many influences on a dad’s thoughts and actions. Unfortunately, too many of those take dad down the wrong path.
Dads have spent too much time on the job. Dads have ignored their wife’s needs. Dads have been reluctant to lead his family to church (Why is it most church activities are run by women?). Dads have let their children do as they please. Dads have abandoned their families.
Dads, you have a responsibility to learn what is honest and right. And you have a mission from God: Be honest, and do what is right.
How do you do that? For one, get to know your children as people. See how much they love you and learn to love them more. Two, keep reading Proverbs. There is much wisdom here about family life. Three, read the bible. See who God your Father is, and follow his example. Four, get with other dads to compare notes, pray for each other and strengthen each other. Five, love your wife. Show your children how you love her and honor her. It will make them happy.
The great thing is, being honest and doing what is right will open the door to a great life for you, your family and generations to come.
Monday, June 7, 2010
My Fault, Father!
June 8, 2010
Read Proverbs 17 – 19
Prov 19:3 People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord.
YOU’VE probably noticed that our culture is good with the “blame game”. You know, it’s that game you play when you make a mistake. Something bad happens, and you blame someone or something else for your circumstance. Sometimes people blame credit card companies for charging too much interest on their balance. They forget they have chosen to borrow the money from the company to use as they desire.
That kind of thinking carries into our relationship with God. Time and again I see people struggling with some type of issue in their life. They wonder, “Where’s God? Why doesn’t he care for me?” They have no concept of his amazing love for them.
They have made decisions that take them away from God. And they can’t find him when they need him.
Let’s stop the “blame God game” and let’s become accountable for our actions. If we’re feeling out of touch with God, let’s look in the bible to see what it says about getting in touch with him.
If we’re feeling he doesn’t love us, open up John 1-3 and see how he came to disciple and save us. If we’re feeling alone, check out the ways God makes himself known through his creation, his people, his Son and his Spirit.
God’s there for you. And the bible says he wants to bless you. And he will do so when you say to him, “My fault, Father. Forgive me for ignoring you. I trust you. I want to hear your voice, feel your touch and know you are my king.”
Read Proverbs 17 – 19
Prov 19:3 People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord.
YOU’VE probably noticed that our culture is good with the “blame game”. You know, it’s that game you play when you make a mistake. Something bad happens, and you blame someone or something else for your circumstance. Sometimes people blame credit card companies for charging too much interest on their balance. They forget they have chosen to borrow the money from the company to use as they desire.
That kind of thinking carries into our relationship with God. Time and again I see people struggling with some type of issue in their life. They wonder, “Where’s God? Why doesn’t he care for me?” They have no concept of his amazing love for them.
They have made decisions that take them away from God. And they can’t find him when they need him.
Let’s stop the “blame God game” and let’s become accountable for our actions. If we’re feeling out of touch with God, let’s look in the bible to see what it says about getting in touch with him.
If we’re feeling he doesn’t love us, open up John 1-3 and see how he came to disciple and save us. If we’re feeling alone, check out the ways God makes himself known through his creation, his people, his Son and his Spirit.
God’s there for you. And the bible says he wants to bless you. And he will do so when you say to him, “My fault, Father. Forgive me for ignoring you. I trust you. I want to hear your voice, feel your touch and know you are my king.”
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Wisdom Leads to Life
June 5
Read Proverbs 5-7
Proverbs 7:4 Say to wisdom, "You are my sister,"
and call understanding your kinsman;
5 they will keep you from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words.
DO YOU ever think about the “stupid” things you’ve done in life? Occasionally some moment, a word, a person or a circumstance will remind me of a mistake I’ve made, and I’ll say to myself, “I should have known better.” And I am embarrassed with myself and regret how I may have hurt someone.
The Wisdom Writer knows (through his own experiences, I’m sure) what happens when we put wisdom aside and rely on our feelings. We submit to temptations. In this case he refers to sexual adultery. But let’s expand his caution to consider all sin as “an adultery of unfaithfulness to God”.
Sin comes when we don’t know any better. Sin comes when we let feelings override our knowledge. Sin comes when we put our wants before God’s commands.
To resist sin, we must know God’s Word. Yes, read his word each day—not just these verses—and you will have more knowledge to resist “adultery”.
Read God’s Word and your feelings will be stronger for him. When your emotions are closer to God, your feelings will be farther from sin.
And third, understand that God’s commands are his words of love to guide you to a full life with him. His commands lead you to the cross to bow before Jesus and say to him, “You are my Lord and Savior.”
Trust the pathway of wisdom to guide you to life. It is from God for you.
Read Proverbs 5-7
Proverbs 7:4 Say to wisdom, "You are my sister,"
and call understanding your kinsman;
5 they will keep you from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words.
DO YOU ever think about the “stupid” things you’ve done in life? Occasionally some moment, a word, a person or a circumstance will remind me of a mistake I’ve made, and I’ll say to myself, “I should have known better.” And I am embarrassed with myself and regret how I may have hurt someone.
The Wisdom Writer knows (through his own experiences, I’m sure) what happens when we put wisdom aside and rely on our feelings. We submit to temptations. In this case he refers to sexual adultery. But let’s expand his caution to consider all sin as “an adultery of unfaithfulness to God”.
Sin comes when we don’t know any better. Sin comes when we let feelings override our knowledge. Sin comes when we put our wants before God’s commands.
To resist sin, we must know God’s Word. Yes, read his word each day—not just these verses—and you will have more knowledge to resist “adultery”.
Read God’s Word and your feelings will be stronger for him. When your emotions are closer to God, your feelings will be farther from sin.
And third, understand that God’s commands are his words of love to guide you to a full life with him. His commands lead you to the cross to bow before Jesus and say to him, “You are my Lord and Savior.”
Trust the pathway of wisdom to guide you to life. It is from God for you.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Me! Me! Over here!
Read Proverbs 1 - 4
Proverbs 2:3-5
3 and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
LIKELY, you have been to a sporting event that gives you the opportunity to receive a free T-shirt. At half-time, the cheerleaders walk up and down the sidelines and shoot the shirts with some apparatus to various parts in the crowd. Do you see how people (maybe you’re one of them) stand and wave for the shirts to come their way? They cry out, “Up here! Up here! Me! Me! I want it. I want it.” And they run after the shirts as they fly through the air. Wow, it’s a big deal to get a shirt!
What if we did that on Sunday morning or in a bible study? What if we stood up and shouted “Here! Here! Me! Me! Give me God’s Word, pastor. Teach me God’s Truth, leader! I want it. I want it!”
Oh, how God would delight in you. And how you would delight in God. The more you know him the more you love him. The more you love him, the more you receive him. The more you receive him, the more you trust him.
Do it. At least shout to God, “Me! Me! Give me your truth!” And wait for him to fill you with the eternal knowledge of him.
Proverbs 2:3-5
3 and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
LIKELY, you have been to a sporting event that gives you the opportunity to receive a free T-shirt. At half-time, the cheerleaders walk up and down the sidelines and shoot the shirts with some apparatus to various parts in the crowd. Do you see how people (maybe you’re one of them) stand and wave for the shirts to come their way? They cry out, “Up here! Up here! Me! Me! I want it. I want it.” And they run after the shirts as they fly through the air. Wow, it’s a big deal to get a shirt!
What if we did that on Sunday morning or in a bible study? What if we stood up and shouted “Here! Here! Me! Me! Give me God’s Word, pastor. Teach me God’s Truth, leader! I want it. I want it!”
Oh, how God would delight in you. And how you would delight in God. The more you know him the more you love him. The more you love him, the more you receive him. The more you receive him, the more you trust him.
Do it. At least shout to God, “Me! Me! Give me your truth!” And wait for him to fill you with the eternal knowledge of him.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Praise the Lord
June 3, 2010
Read Psalms 147 - 150--Proverbs 1
Ps 150:6 Praise the Lord!
THIS IS an appropriate ending to Psalms. When all the talk is talked, all the questions are questioned, when all the wonder is wondered, praise the LORD!
It is so good to praise the LORD. When you wake up in the morning, think about the ways God has blessed you. The Psalms speak of God’s salvation, his creation, his strength, his power and his love. These are yours! Praise the Lord!
The Psalms praise God for his great mercy, of how he defeats his enemies and protects his people. In the Psalms, we see God’s people in anguish when they don’t feel his presence. And we see God’s people in joy when he is near.
In the Psalms we see God’s people passionately love him. And we see God passionately love his people.
Yes, Praise the Lord!
Read Psalms 147 - 150--Proverbs 1
Ps 150:6 Praise the Lord!
THIS IS an appropriate ending to Psalms. When all the talk is talked, all the questions are questioned, when all the wonder is wondered, praise the LORD!
It is so good to praise the LORD. When you wake up in the morning, think about the ways God has blessed you. The Psalms speak of God’s salvation, his creation, his strength, his power and his love. These are yours! Praise the Lord!
The Psalms praise God for his great mercy, of how he defeats his enemies and protects his people. In the Psalms, we see God’s people in anguish when they don’t feel his presence. And we see God’s people in joy when he is near.
In the Psalms we see God’s people passionately love him. And we see God passionately love his people.
Yes, Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
It's the Truth!
June 2, 2010
Read Psalms 140 – 146
Ps 141:5 Let a righteous man strike me — it is a kindness;
let him rebuke me — it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it.
Ps 142:7 Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.
I JUST got off the phone with a friend. We were talking about speaking the truth of the gospel to people. The discussion centered around how we teach and preach to the newcomer in the church. Do we “go easy” on them, or do we tell the complete truth—believe in Jesus or spend eternity in Hell.
We voted for the latter, and there are two reasons. First, it’s the Truth. How else will people know the truth unless they hear it? And second, it is the greatest act of love you can ever do for anyone.
I know, if you said to someone, “You must believe in Jesus to go to Heaven.” Many people would call you judgmental, narrow-minded, dumb or just look at you and then run away. But so what? The truth is all that matters. And when you tell God’s Truth, you are a righteous person.
The psalmist expresses a great joy in hearing God’s truth. Even if it hurts (And it often does.) He celebrates when a righteous person comes to him and corrects him. He rejoices in the Truth entering into his mind. Why?
Because the truth corrects him from the wrong way, he will walk more closely with God. He knows that to be with God, he needs to know the Truth. He also knows the truth will put him in the company of other righteous people who will help him continue to find the Truth.
This is a picture of a great church: people rejoice in the Truth. People come to fellowship in the Truth. People worship God in the Truth.
Trust the truth. And this is what will happen:
John 8:31-32 Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free .”
It is GREAT to be free in Jesus!
Read Psalms 140 – 146
Ps 141:5 Let a righteous man strike me — it is a kindness;
let him rebuke me — it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it.
Ps 142:7 Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.
I JUST got off the phone with a friend. We were talking about speaking the truth of the gospel to people. The discussion centered around how we teach and preach to the newcomer in the church. Do we “go easy” on them, or do we tell the complete truth—believe in Jesus or spend eternity in Hell.
We voted for the latter, and there are two reasons. First, it’s the Truth. How else will people know the truth unless they hear it? And second, it is the greatest act of love you can ever do for anyone.
I know, if you said to someone, “You must believe in Jesus to go to Heaven.” Many people would call you judgmental, narrow-minded, dumb or just look at you and then run away. But so what? The truth is all that matters. And when you tell God’s Truth, you are a righteous person.
The psalmist expresses a great joy in hearing God’s truth. Even if it hurts (And it often does.) He celebrates when a righteous person comes to him and corrects him. He rejoices in the Truth entering into his mind. Why?
Because the truth corrects him from the wrong way, he will walk more closely with God. He knows that to be with God, he needs to know the Truth. He also knows the truth will put him in the company of other righteous people who will help him continue to find the Truth.
This is a picture of a great church: people rejoice in the Truth. People come to fellowship in the Truth. People worship God in the Truth.
Trust the truth. And this is what will happen:
John 8:31-32 Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free .”
It is GREAT to be free in Jesus!
Sing With Joy
June 1, 2010
Read Psalms 135 - 139
Ps 137:4 How can we sing the songs of the LORD
while in a foreign land?
Ps 139:5 You hem me in — behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
PSALM 137 was written and sung when Israel was in captivity in Babylon. The writer mourns the people’s separation from their home and from their temple. Babylon threatens their family structure, their culture and their worship. How can there be any joy? How can they sing the songs of the LORD and to the LORD when they are in a foreign land?
The answer is in Psalm 139:5. Here the Psalmist—David—writes and sings of God’s great protection. God is before him and behind him. God’s hand is on him, and he feels secure in God’s care even though he is often challenged and threatened by his enemies.
It’s easy, isn’t it, to feel separated from God? We live in a culture that actually encourages us to “leave God” and go out on our own strength and wisdom—into a “foreign land”.
We search for peace and joy. We find none. Living in a foreign place separate from God’s ways, we lose our way. And we wonder, “How can we sing the songs of the LORD?” because we feel so far from our home with God.
But know this: God is near. He is ready to surround you with his love. When you turn from the foreign land that denies him and turn to Him, His firm, strong and gentle hand is ready to welcome you back home and into his living Temple, Jesus Christ.
Trust in God and go to the life he has for you. And you will sing for joy.
Read Psalms 135 - 139
Ps 137:4 How can we sing the songs of the LORD
while in a foreign land?
Ps 139:5 You hem me in — behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
PSALM 137 was written and sung when Israel was in captivity in Babylon. The writer mourns the people’s separation from their home and from their temple. Babylon threatens their family structure, their culture and their worship. How can there be any joy? How can they sing the songs of the LORD and to the LORD when they are in a foreign land?
The answer is in Psalm 139:5. Here the Psalmist—David—writes and sings of God’s great protection. God is before him and behind him. God’s hand is on him, and he feels secure in God’s care even though he is often challenged and threatened by his enemies.
It’s easy, isn’t it, to feel separated from God? We live in a culture that actually encourages us to “leave God” and go out on our own strength and wisdom—into a “foreign land”.
We search for peace and joy. We find none. Living in a foreign place separate from God’s ways, we lose our way. And we wonder, “How can we sing the songs of the LORD?” because we feel so far from our home with God.
But know this: God is near. He is ready to surround you with his love. When you turn from the foreign land that denies him and turn to Him, His firm, strong and gentle hand is ready to welcome you back home and into his living Temple, Jesus Christ.
Trust in God and go to the life he has for you. And you will sing for joy.
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