Conspiracy Theories – Living in a Spirit of Fear
Many are the people today that worry and fret over tomorrow. This is to be expected by the non-regenerated soul, but should not be a part of the Christians character. Too many people who claim the name of Christ are becoming enthralled in the realm of conspiracy theories. They live in fear of what tomorrow will bring and tend to be consumed with irrational concerns. Fear is immobilizing. It effectively makes one ineffective.
Excessive worry, whether over what the government is doing, tracking and up to, only serve to lead us into the sin of worry and fear.
Nothing that takes place in the world will take God by surprise. The Lord is sovereign.
Psalm 115:3 But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.
There are many interesting conspiracy theories out there from the erosion of civil rights to the dilution of the Bible by various versions and texts. These have only served to divide the church against itself and to church’s attention from our main mission of being a witness and making disciples. This is not of God.
2 Corinthians 5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
This draws our attention from the things God has told us to be busy doing – even more so as His return draws nearer. God has revealed in His word that the world is not getting better but worse. He has told us about these things so we would be even more concerned with things of eternal value and not worried about the way of the world.
He has not given the believer a spirit of fear.
Luke 12:5 "But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!
Romans 8:15For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!"
We need to be consumed by our love for God, by our concern for pleasing Him. There can be many excesses in life. Whether it is worrying about every little minuet item or whether it is an excess of something that is good such as bible reading. These things can bind, impair, consume and destroy one.
Here is a test for you. Measure it by this scripture.
James 3:13 Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. 18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
If the item falls into the description of verses 13-16 it is not of God. But if it passes the test of verses 17-18 you can rest in it as being of God.
Ecclesiastes 7:16 Do not be excessively righteous and do not be overly wise. Why should you ruin yourself?
This scripture warns us not to be overly focused on one thing above another setting our own righteous standards. God’s righteousness will result in more of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. Our own efforts of righteousness will be no better than that of the Pharisees that brings bondage and condemnation. Our only righteousness is to be found in Christ
There is one area where we can rest assured that we cannot go into excess over. This is found in the fruit of the Spirit. This must be cultivated by walking in the Spirit and not giving place to our flesh and its own ideas.
Galatians 5: 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Do not fret about this world. It is all going to burn. Rather be concerned about pleasing the Father and walk by the power of His Spirit as you submit your way in preference to His way.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
The Matter of the Covering
1 Corinthians 11:1 Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you because you remember me in everything and hold firmly to the traditions, just as I delivered them to you. 3 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ. 4 Every man who has something on his head while praying or prophesying disgraces his head. 5 But every woman who has her head uncovered while praying or prophesying disgraces her head, for she is one and the same as the woman whose head is shaved. 6 For if a woman does not cover her head, let her also have her hair cut off; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, let her cover her head. 7 For a man ought not to have his head covered, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man. 8 For man does not originate from woman, but woman from man; 9 for indeed man was not created for the woman's sake, but woman for the man's sake. 10 Therefore the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. 11 However, in the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. 12 For as the woman originates from the man, so also the man has his birth through the woman; and all things originate from God. 13 Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him, 15 but if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her? For her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 But if one is inclined to be contentious, we have no other practice, nor have the churches of God. 17 But in giving this instruction, I do not praise you, because you come together not for the better but for the worse. 18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that divisions exist among you; and in part I believe it.
For many years I had questioned this simple section of scripture. Pastors and teachers, many of which I love and respect, were quick to explain it away as a cultural item, not for today. So we went on in our lives not following this simple command, but never completely forgetting about it. Even though in reality it has only passed away from most churches over the last 40-50 years.
Let me start out with this simple premise; nothing in the text would make me think this was simply a cultural practice. Paul even appeals to what nature teaches (this does not mean that the long hair replaces the covering). We should be careful not to add what scripture does not declare. The practice of culturalizing scripture has its own precarious pitfalls. Where do you stop? (any where you like). For some they will stop with this particular scripture. But to other anything that doesn’t fit their liking is not off limits (i.e. homosexuality).
I don’t claim to completely understand this scripture, but that should not stop anyone from obeying what they do understand. Many people that do embrace the simple covering also omit certain things in this same section of scripture. It may be due to what they have been previously taught or a lack of considering the issues.
Verse five clearly deals with the subjects of praying and prophesying. The context of this scripture in its most simple understanding seems to be done in the context of the church body. I believe it is linked to the section following dealing with problems in the Lord’s Supper. I do not see a break in Paul’s train of thought here.
The question I would like to bring up at this point is what is the context of the woman’s praying and prophesying? I have already established it as being in the gathered church body. But many will protest that the woman is to be silent in the assembly and is not allowed a position of authority. Let me address these one at a time.
The context of the woman being silent from 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 is linked to the questioning of the prophets. It appears to be a stepping out of line by questioning whether that was really the word of God being spoken. The woman in this context is clearly operating outside of the authority of her husband. I believe this is important to the proper understanding of the woman’s role in the body.
1 Timothy 2:11 A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. 12 But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet.
The next issue is quite clear. The woman is not to be teaching/preaching or in a position of authority in the church body. But this does not preclude sharing of testimonies or asking questions to clarify what a teacher may mean. Let me make this clear -this does not mean to cloak a teaching or mini-sermon in the form of a question or testimony.
Experience in general shows that women in general will dominate conversations, sharing and questions and men will tend toward silence. But I believe this to be true mainly because men refuse and have not been taught to take their rightful places as the spiritual leaders, but have instead abdecated this to their wives in many circumstances. With that said lets examine another possibility.
When each member in the body of Christ is being obedient and functioning in their proper positions – how do women praying and prophesying fit into church? I do not have a definitive answer, but that does not mean we should ignore it or excuse it away anymore than the covering. I believe that a woman properly taking her place under the headship of her husband could both pray and prophesy within the body without violating 1 Timothy 2:11-12. She would only do so under the authority of her husband not usurping or ignoring it. I believe that we should strive to teach men and women to take their proper position and trust the leading of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers that are seeking to know and honor Christ.
I think we lose some very important parts of the body of Christ when we artificially suppress or ignore what scripture has spoken on. Whether it is either out of fear or ignorance it is still wrong. This will never work if we operate in the flesh, whether it is women improperly exercising freedom in these things or whether it is men artificially stifling what God would have us do.
My intent here is to encourage all of us to look beyond our own biases. Whether it is ignoring the command of the covering or push aside how should a woman pray or prophesy within the body.
A few final thoughts:
The covering type, size and color are never addressed. Let us not make up things where the word is silent.
The wearing of the covering appears to be related to the gathering of believers. If some wear it all the time, let them not look down on those who do not.
A woman can wear a covering but not be in the God given position in relationship to her husband or male authority. As well a woman can be completely in her proper role and yet be uncovered. It is not a prerequisite to salvation.
In 1 Corinthians 11:16 Paul tells us not to be contentious over the issue. I have heard the verse taken many different ways, but it appears to me that Paul is simply saying let us truly love one another and not fight over the issue of the covering.
This command is only mentioned once in the word. That is not to diminish it, but rather let us concentrate more on loving one another for Christ it was of supreme importance for the believer.
John 13:34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
I believe the veiling is a beautiful thing. It seems so right when a godly woman wears one. But let us not raise it or any other pet doctrines above all other things. Especially loving the brethren and helping each other on to the full maturity and stature of Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:1 Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you because you remember me in everything and hold firmly to the traditions, just as I delivered them to you. 3 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ. 4 Every man who has something on his head while praying or prophesying disgraces his head. 5 But every woman who has her head uncovered while praying or prophesying disgraces her head, for she is one and the same as the woman whose head is shaved. 6 For if a woman does not cover her head, let her also have her hair cut off; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, let her cover her head. 7 For a man ought not to have his head covered, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man. 8 For man does not originate from woman, but woman from man; 9 for indeed man was not created for the woman's sake, but woman for the man's sake. 10 Therefore the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. 11 However, in the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. 12 For as the woman originates from the man, so also the man has his birth through the woman; and all things originate from God. 13 Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him, 15 but if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her? For her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 But if one is inclined to be contentious, we have no other practice, nor have the churches of God. 17 But in giving this instruction, I do not praise you, because you come together not for the better but for the worse. 18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that divisions exist among you; and in part I believe it.
For many years I had questioned this simple section of scripture. Pastors and teachers, many of which I love and respect, were quick to explain it away as a cultural item, not for today. So we went on in our lives not following this simple command, but never completely forgetting about it. Even though in reality it has only passed away from most churches over the last 40-50 years.
Let me start out with this simple premise; nothing in the text would make me think this was simply a cultural practice. Paul even appeals to what nature teaches (this does not mean that the long hair replaces the covering). We should be careful not to add what scripture does not declare. The practice of culturalizing scripture has its own precarious pitfalls. Where do you stop? (any where you like). For some they will stop with this particular scripture. But to other anything that doesn’t fit their liking is not off limits (i.e. homosexuality).
I don’t claim to completely understand this scripture, but that should not stop anyone from obeying what they do understand. Many people that do embrace the simple covering also omit certain things in this same section of scripture. It may be due to what they have been previously taught or a lack of considering the issues.
Verse five clearly deals with the subjects of praying and prophesying. The context of this scripture in its most simple understanding seems to be done in the context of the church body. I believe it is linked to the section following dealing with problems in the Lord’s Supper. I do not see a break in Paul’s train of thought here.
The question I would like to bring up at this point is what is the context of the woman’s praying and prophesying? I have already established it as being in the gathered church body. But many will protest that the woman is to be silent in the assembly and is not allowed a position of authority. Let me address these one at a time.
The context of the woman being silent from 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 is linked to the questioning of the prophets. It appears to be a stepping out of line by questioning whether that was really the word of God being spoken. The woman in this context is clearly operating outside of the authority of her husband. I believe this is important to the proper understanding of the woman’s role in the body.
1 Timothy 2:11 A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. 12 But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet.
The next issue is quite clear. The woman is not to be teaching/preaching or in a position of authority in the church body. But this does not preclude sharing of testimonies or asking questions to clarify what a teacher may mean. Let me make this clear -this does not mean to cloak a teaching or mini-sermon in the form of a question or testimony.
Experience in general shows that women in general will dominate conversations, sharing and questions and men will tend toward silence. But I believe this to be true mainly because men refuse and have not been taught to take their rightful places as the spiritual leaders, but have instead abdecated this to their wives in many circumstances. With that said lets examine another possibility.
When each member in the body of Christ is being obedient and functioning in their proper positions – how do women praying and prophesying fit into church? I do not have a definitive answer, but that does not mean we should ignore it or excuse it away anymore than the covering. I believe that a woman properly taking her place under the headship of her husband could both pray and prophesy within the body without violating 1 Timothy 2:11-12. She would only do so under the authority of her husband not usurping or ignoring it. I believe that we should strive to teach men and women to take their proper position and trust the leading of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers that are seeking to know and honor Christ.
I think we lose some very important parts of the body of Christ when we artificially suppress or ignore what scripture has spoken on. Whether it is either out of fear or ignorance it is still wrong. This will never work if we operate in the flesh, whether it is women improperly exercising freedom in these things or whether it is men artificially stifling what God would have us do.
My intent here is to encourage all of us to look beyond our own biases. Whether it is ignoring the command of the covering or push aside how should a woman pray or prophesy within the body.
A few final thoughts:
The covering type, size and color are never addressed. Let us not make up things where the word is silent.
The wearing of the covering appears to be related to the gathering of believers. If some wear it all the time, let them not look down on those who do not.
A woman can wear a covering but not be in the God given position in relationship to her husband or male authority. As well a woman can be completely in her proper role and yet be uncovered. It is not a prerequisite to salvation.
In 1 Corinthians 11:16 Paul tells us not to be contentious over the issue. I have heard the verse taken many different ways, but it appears to me that Paul is simply saying let us truly love one another and not fight over the issue of the covering.
This command is only mentioned once in the word. That is not to diminish it, but rather let us concentrate more on loving one another for Christ it was of supreme importance for the believer.
John 13:34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
I believe the veiling is a beautiful thing. It seems so right when a godly woman wears one. But let us not raise it or any other pet doctrines above all other things. Especially loving the brethren and helping each other on to the full maturity and stature of Christ.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Discouragement of the Flesh
vs.
Encouragement of the Spirit
Recently we received a letter from a friend of admonishing us in various areas. Some of the admonishment was needed – others seemed unfounded. Some given by the Spirit, but yet others seemed to be in the humanness of the flesh - really their definition (method) was unfounded in scripture. I have to wonder if I have done the same in the past to others unaware of my own lack of love in doing so. The Lord had recently shown one of these items that was brought up. specifically the lack of consistency in disciplining some of our children (some times we don't quite see what we are doing - even when we know what to do). These things should be brought out in a loving, humble manner.
One was in particular very hurtful to both of us. It seemed to leave a crushing hopeless blow. It was said of us that we could never pass a home-study for adoption. We just had too much junk and didn’t keep the place clean enough. Now we don’t have a dirt - dust free home because we do live here. This is a home not a museum. To help understand the magnitude of this hurt it may help to know our hearts. It has been our heart to adopt a special needs child, but only in God’s timing and is His way. Was what they said true? I didn’t believe so – but yet I pondered over the matter. It just hurt. We still love these friends, but I think a few things must be gone over in love and covered in the word.
But God – (that is may favorite saying of the Lord) He had different plans. Not but a day later we received a card with a very generous amount of money from some dear friends that know our heart and desire to adoption. They wanted to bless us and help in paying for our home-study. In a time of what seemed to be deep sadness the Lord turned into an overcoming blessing and encouragement. God had gone before us and made an answer clear. Even before the admonishment was in the mail - the other card had been sent on its way from California. Don't worry about what others may do or say, but seek the Lord and discern His way.
Oh how good and blessed the Lord has been to us and always is.
Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. Psalm 42:11
Friday, May 25, 2007
To Know the Joys and Trials of Life
We have had several events of life come our way during the past two weeks. God has used these event to effect change not only in our lives, but in the lives of many people. God does
not work in only one dimension, but in many dimensions through seemingly unrelated events. I t is quite probable that many of these events and how they have worked in the lives of us and so many others will remain a mystery to us this side of eternity.
The first event I will bring up is the baptism of my oldest son, Samuel. He came to us wanting to be baptized (he had made a profession of faith as a child many years earlier). Over the past few months I had noticed several changes in his character. God had done something new in his life, so he requested for a public baptism (as well as asking that I preform the baptism). It was with great joy we set about planning this event at a local lake by the public park. It was here in the presence of many fellow believers from our small congregation along with an on looking world that Samuel and another young man were baptized by their earthly fathers while announcing to all their belief and obedience to the Heavenly Father. This time was followed by a sweet fellowship. We broke bread together, ate, shared our faith with one another, and sang praises to our God. It just seemed to be the way ought to be for the body of believers.
John14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
The next event seemed to flow naturally into our lives. We were contacted by some dear friends in California about a downs baby that was in need of an adoptive home. For many years now we have had on our hearts to do something in the area of adoption. This was seemingly laid right in our hands. I knew that walking through this door could open us up for disappointment and hurt, but there was really no question - it was our heart to obey. We were and are now just as confident that God is completely in control. He has a purpose for everything He brings into our lives. This particular child was not to be ours. The birth mother selected another family to receive the child. I will freely admit that I do not understand the way things worked out. I have even questioned myself...did I truly understand God's leading correctly. In the end I know that God lead us this way - my obedience is required no matter the cost. The question is are we willing to follow God no matter the hurt, disappointment, confusion, persecution. Willingly obey Him. For this I know whatever comes into my life is for my good and God's glory.
Psalm 39:4 "LORD, make me to know my end And what is the extent of my days; Let me know how transient I am. 5 "Behold, You have made my days as handbreadths, And my lifetime as nothing in Your sight; Surely every man at his best is a mere breath. Selah. 6 "Surely every man walks about as a phantom; Surely they make an uproar for nothing; He amasses riches and does not know who will gather them.
Well God has a way of putting my disappointment and questions back into perspective. I was feeling down and confused. What was wrong in my life? What was the purpose? Did I clearly understand the Lord. All of these questions quickly went by the wayside as I found out that one out of our small body of believers, a young brother of a dear friend, had died in a single vehicle accident. A mother had lost a son. Several brothers had lost one of their own. Still others had lost a dear friend. But knowing that this young man was a believer brings a sense of joy and peace that mingles with our sorrow. We have no way of knowing the purpose of God in this death. We do not know the impact and change that may be wrought in the lives of others because of it. But again we can trust in the Lord in all things. What the world may see as a senseless waste God will turn into something that will last through out all eternity.
Just in case that wasn't enough, another dear family was touched by a death. They lost an unborn child after knowing and preparing for the child for 17 weeks. They already have several children, so some may think that this is not very significant. Oh how wrong that assumption would be. Every child is a special blessing from the Lord. No matter how many there are - there is room for another. Again we know that God has a purpose that is for their good in all of this even if we can't see it now.
What does all of this really mean?
Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. 6 He will bring forth your righteousness as the light And your judgment as the noonday. 7 Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. 8 Cease from anger and forsake wrath; Do not fret; it leads only to evildoing. 9 For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land.
First know that nothing that has happened has taken God by surprise. The only reason any of us have breath in our bodies right this moment is that it has so pleased the Father to make it so. Scripture is so clear about how very short our life span is ion earth. What are you doing with the life God has entrusted to you? You are accountable to Him for what you have lived for. Our purpose was to bring glory to God. This is what we were designed to do. God calls each of us to obey Him and Him alone. Obedience is synonymous with faith and belief. You cannot have one without the other. God gives us the grace and power to obey what He has commanded us to do. Would you take time to consider your life? In fact it is really not yours at all. It is merely borrowed. You one day will have to give an account to the One who owns that life. This life offers a fleeting reward and pleasure. If you seek and follow after the world - you will have obtained all of your reward which will bring forth death for all eternity. Instead choose life. Humble yourself and follow God. Find life in Christ. Be conformed into His image by His power.
May the Lord open up all of our eyes to the brevity of life, our accountability to a sovereign God. Choose life and not death.
1 Corinthians 1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. 26 For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; 27 but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, 28 and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, 29 so that no man may boast before God.
We have had several events of life come our way during the past two weeks. God has used these event to effect change not only in our lives, but in the lives of many people. God does
not work in only one dimension, but in many dimensions through seemingly unrelated events. I t is quite probable that many of these events and how they have worked in the lives of us and so many others will remain a mystery to us this side of eternity.The first event I will bring up is the baptism of my oldest son, Samuel. He came to us wanting to be baptized (he had made a profession of faith as a child many years earlier). Over the past few months I had noticed several changes in his character. God had done something new in his life, so he requested for a public baptism (as well as asking that I preform the baptism). It was with great joy we set about planning this event at a local lake by the public park. It was here in the presence of many fellow believers from our small congregation along with an on looking world that Samuel and another young man were baptized by their earthly fathers while announcing to all their belief and obedience to the Heavenly Father. This time was followed by a sweet fellowship. We broke bread together, ate, shared our faith with one another, and sang praises to our God. It just seemed to be the way ought to be for the body of believers.
John14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
The next event seemed to flow naturally into our lives. We were contacted by some dear friends in California about a downs baby that was in need of an adoptive home. For many years now we have had on our hearts to do something in the area of adoption. This was seemingly laid right in our hands. I knew that walking through this door could open us up for disappointment and hurt, but there was really no question - it was our heart to obey. We were and are now just as confident that God is completely in control. He has a purpose for everything He brings into our lives. This particular child was not to be ours. The birth mother selected another family to receive the child. I will freely admit that I do not understand the way things worked out. I have even questioned myself...did I truly understand God's leading correctly. In the end I know that God lead us this way - my obedience is required no matter the cost. The question is are we willing to follow God no matter the hurt, disappointment, confusion, persecution. Willingly obey Him. For this I know whatever comes into my life is for my good and God's glory.
Psalm 39:4 "LORD, make me to know my end And what is the extent of my days; Let me know how transient I am. 5 "Behold, You have made my days as handbreadths, And my lifetime as nothing in Your sight; Surely every man at his best is a mere breath. Selah. 6 "Surely every man walks about as a phantom; Surely they make an uproar for nothing; He amasses riches and does not know who will gather them.
Well God has a way of putting my disappointment and questions back into perspective. I was feeling down and confused. What was wrong in my life? What was the purpose? Did I clearly understand the Lord. All of these questions quickly went by the wayside as I found out that one out of our small body of believers, a young brother of a dear friend, had died in a single vehicle accident. A mother had lost a son. Several brothers had lost one of their own. Still others had lost a dear friend. But knowing that this young man was a believer brings a sense of joy and peace that mingles with our sorrow. We have no way of knowing the purpose of God in this death. We do not know the impact and change that may be wrought in the lives of others because of it. But again we can trust in the Lord in all things. What the world may see as a senseless waste God will turn into something that will last through out all eternity.
Just in case that wasn't enough, another dear family was touched by a death. They lost an unborn child after knowing and preparing for the child for 17 weeks. They already have several children, so some may think that this is not very significant. Oh how wrong that assumption would be. Every child is a special blessing from the Lord. No matter how many there are - there is room for another. Again we know that God has a purpose that is for their good in all of this even if we can't see it now.
What does all of this really mean?
Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. 6 He will bring forth your righteousness as the light And your judgment as the noonday. 7 Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. 8 Cease from anger and forsake wrath; Do not fret; it leads only to evildoing. 9 For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land.
First know that nothing that has happened has taken God by surprise. The only reason any of us have breath in our bodies right this moment is that it has so pleased the Father to make it so. Scripture is so clear about how very short our life span is ion earth. What are you doing with the life God has entrusted to you? You are accountable to Him for what you have lived for. Our purpose was to bring glory to God. This is what we were designed to do. God calls each of us to obey Him and Him alone. Obedience is synonymous with faith and belief. You cannot have one without the other. God gives us the grace and power to obey what He has commanded us to do. Would you take time to consider your life? In fact it is really not yours at all. It is merely borrowed. You one day will have to give an account to the One who owns that life. This life offers a fleeting reward and pleasure. If you seek and follow after the world - you will have obtained all of your reward which will bring forth death for all eternity. Instead choose life. Humble yourself and follow God. Find life in Christ. Be conformed into His image by His power.
May the Lord open up all of our eyes to the brevity of life, our accountability to a sovereign God. Choose life and not death.
1 Corinthians 1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. 26 For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; 27 but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, 28 and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, 29 so that no man may boast before God.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Can You Make
“Unclean” Pigs “Clean”
?
“Unclean” Pigs “Clean”
?
My wife and I were discussing the true nature of man and how clearly we can see some of the biblical examples in our animals. Afterwards she sat down and typed out the following blog. I think it is well worth reading.
What a silly question. And I would have never thought about this until…………….we got 2 piglets awhile ago. And I just got to thinking about this passage: Matthew 15:1-20. If you are not familiar with this passage, please read it or these thoughts may not make sense to you.
Our piglets are so cute. (You can see them on the trisonchickery blog)We named them salami and pepperoni. Now we did not get them for pets, though they are cute. So I got to thinking……………..if we were in charge of their diet (what goes in the mouth), then is it possible to actually have “clean” pigs!? If we only gave them fruits and vegetables and fish to eat, then they would be the healthiest pigs around! And we gave t hem lots of shade so they do not have to waller in mud. So far they have stayed pretty clean ----- on the outside that is.
Is it possible to change an “unclean” animal to “clean” by what man does? Well, as I have observed, their diet & hygiene did not change their hearts. They still are selfish little pigs. They bite each others ears. Push one another out away from the food trough. They squeal and chase each other in frustration. They steal anything they can get from each other. One will simply jump in and “hog” up the entire water trough so the other can not get a drink. They are constantly bickering and only looking out for themselves.
I thought what an interesting lesson. It truly is not what goes into the mouth that makes them unclean, but the heart. As for the heart of the pig was made that way by God. So no matter how “man” dresses it up, cleans the outside, feeds it the most organic diet, it will NEVER be a “clean” animal.
So it is with us too. We can do “churchy” activities. We can attend Bible studies, sing in the choir. We can say many a prayers. But that does not make one “clean”
"'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.'" Matthew 15:8-9
No matter how we disguise it or dress it up---it is not what goes into the mouth that makes us “unclean”.
Matthew 15:10-11 Jesus called the crowd to him and said, "Listen and understand. What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean,' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.'"
The question is…….what comes out of your mouth? When you are not at church or with your “churchy” friends? When you are offended. When someone has done you wrong? Do you tear them apart to make you feel better? Do you have evil thoughts against those who you don’t care for? Do you have a craving to gratify the flesh in what you read and watch on TV or movies. Lowering your standards saying well everyone else at church watches it…..it must be OK. Though it has many sexual innuendoes and immodesty through out it, you say it isn’t so bad so that it can feed your flesh?
"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. Matthew 15:17-19
This my friend is what makes you “unclean”. It is your actions. For actions come from thoughts and thoughts come from the heart:
As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man. Proverbs 27:19
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. Luke 6:45
So what is in your heart? Is it repentance that leads to salvation? Are you seeking the wisdom of God found in the fear of a Holy God. Is it the Truth of God’s Word on a daily, moment by moment basis. Feasting on His Word and allowing the Holy Spirit to teach you these concepts. Humbling yourself and to remember you are but dust. Do you desire to find out what pleases God and obey it?
What is in your heart?Only God can make the “unclean” “clean”
Saturday, January 27, 2007
The Path of Least Resistance
One basic principle of electricity is that it will seek the path of least resistance to complete a circuit. People are very much the same way. Most people go through life looking for the easiest way to travel. Whether we a speaking of a physical path or a spiritual path people tend to seek the path that appears to be the most pleasing. As it is with many things, man simply does not see clearly. His vision is obscured by his own wicked un-regenerated heart.
There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12
I have pondered over this thought as we have spent some time studying Matthew 7:13-14. It speaks of the board path and the narrow path. One leads to life and the other leads to death. Man’s way always leads to death. The path he chooses is the path of least resistance, at least as far as this world is concerned. I would like to take a look and see what God’s Word speaks about the truly least resistive path.
The first thing I that needs to be made clear is the condition of man’s mind. Have you ever heard someone say “that’s why God gave me a brain” in the context of refuting what scripture has to say?
Romans 8:5 For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, 7 because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, 8 and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
God’s Word is clear about the condition of man’s mind. Man’s mind is hostile to the things of God. In our flesh it is impossible, not just difficult, to live a life pleasing to the Father.
So is the path this world on truly the path of least resistance. The majority of men believe that to be true. But again we must consult God for the true answer.
1 Peter 3:8 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; 9 not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. 10 For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. 11 "HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT. 12 "FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL."
Think of it. God is very careful to look out for the needs of those that belong to Him. That is too wonderful for me to comprehend. But notice what it says about those that don’t belong to God. God Himself is against them. God is not just indifferent to them, but He has set His very purpose against them for destruction. That is a terrible and terrifying place to be.
Matthew 11:28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. 30 "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Christ gave us the answer. God’s way will always be the path of least resistance. Will you resist man or God? You will either serve this present world and suffer the consequences under God’s eternal judgment, or serve God and God alone enjoying His favor eternally. There is no middle ground. No balance. With God you are either with Him or against Him. And if you are not with Him, He is against you!
Psalm 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.
May the Lord open our eyes and ears that we may truly discern the path of least resistance. Remember, the purpose of seeking God is not to change His mind, but rather it is to conform us to His will. His will is always for our good and for His glory.
One basic principle of electricity is that it will seek the path of least resistance to complete a circuit. People are very much the same way. Most people go through life looking for the easiest way to travel. Whether we a speaking of a physical path or a spiritual path people tend to seek the path that appears to be the most pleasing. As it is with many things, man simply does not see clearly. His vision is obscured by his own wicked un-regenerated heart.
There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12
I have pondered over this thought as we have spent some time studying Matthew 7:13-14. It speaks of the board path and the narrow path. One leads to life and the other leads to death. Man’s way always leads to death. The path he chooses is the path of least resistance, at least as far as this world is concerned. I would like to take a look and see what God’s Word speaks about the truly least resistive path.
The first thing I that needs to be made clear is the condition of man’s mind. Have you ever heard someone say “that’s why God gave me a brain” in the context of refuting what scripture has to say?
Romans 8:5 For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, 7 because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, 8 and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
God’s Word is clear about the condition of man’s mind. Man’s mind is hostile to the things of God. In our flesh it is impossible, not just difficult, to live a life pleasing to the Father.
So is the path this world on truly the path of least resistance. The majority of men believe that to be true. But again we must consult God for the true answer.
1 Peter 3:8 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; 9 not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. 10 For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. 11 "HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT. 12 "FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL."
Think of it. God is very careful to look out for the needs of those that belong to Him. That is too wonderful for me to comprehend. But notice what it says about those that don’t belong to God. God Himself is against them. God is not just indifferent to them, but He has set His very purpose against them for destruction. That is a terrible and terrifying place to be.
Matthew 11:28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. 30 "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Christ gave us the answer. God’s way will always be the path of least resistance. Will you resist man or God? You will either serve this present world and suffer the consequences under God’s eternal judgment, or serve God and God alone enjoying His favor eternally. There is no middle ground. No balance. With God you are either with Him or against Him. And if you are not with Him, He is against you!
Psalm 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.
May the Lord open our eyes and ears that we may truly discern the path of least resistance. Remember, the purpose of seeking God is not to change His mind, but rather it is to conform us to His will. His will is always for our good and for His glory.
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