“He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known.” – Proverbs 10:9 NKJV
Finding sure steps on tricky terrain can be tough; but the Word sheds light on the path to reveal the next move. And though it’s tempting, “short cuts” rarely lead to the right destination. May our steps be sure today…
“So Moses went down and spoke to the people.” – Exodus 19:25 NKJV
The incredible mountain top experience for Moses included many things; the Ten Commandments, instructions regarding worship, and guidance for daily life. However, once he came down, he found things back at camp worse than before. Those closest to him must have peppered him with questions about his time with God.
Have you ever been on the mountain? Have you traveled up and sought out God’s instructions? What did you hear? What did you see? And then, what did you find when you came back? Often the stuff going on “in the camp” can cause us to doubt what we heard on the mountain. Truth that was so loud and clear can become distant and hazy over time.
Moses’ conversation with God must have been amazing and he probably had many days where he wished to go back for reassurance. The life of a disciple can bring days like that, but don’t doubt what you heard on the mountain, and don’t second-guess God’s Word. There will always be those in the camp who don’t understand, but they weren’t there…you were.
Ever struggled with letting go of a grudge?
If there’s anyone in the Old Testament who could have justified a grudge, it would have been Joseph. As Jacob’s favorite son, his jealous brothers sold him to slave-traders, which led to a life of serving others against his will in a foreign land. That event and others could have easily produced a vindictive spirit within him…but it didn’t.
His story is one of the most amazing in the Bible. Joseph had a stubborn love for God that remained, even while shaken. Instead of looking back to the past, his faith looked forward to the future. God gave him favor in the eyes of those around him and he quickly became governor. However, in the midst of the favor, the events of the past suddenly broke through into the present. His brothers showed up to buy food and Joseph struggled to keep himself together. He was overwhelmed with emotions, and when he revealed himself to them they feared the worst. They feared “pay-back” and punishment, but Joseph offered forgiveness and restoration. He loved them and said this:
“But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.” – Genesis 50:20 NKJV
Grudges look backward, faith looks forward. Which way will you look today?
Joseph was done wrong.
First he was sold into slavery, then imprisoned by a false accusation. While confined in the Egyptian prison, Joseph interpreted the dreams of two officials who were being punished by Pharaoh. When one of them got word that he was to be restored to his former post, Joseph asked for a favorable mention; but for two long years, he heard nothing. Joseph probably felt like the butler had completely forgotten him…and as-a-matter-of-fact, he had:
“Yet the chief butler did not remember Joseph, but forgot him.” – Genesis 40:23 NKJV
Then one day, Pharaoh himself had a dream and the forgetful butler’s memory was jostled:
“Then the chief butler spoke to Pharaoh, saying, “I remember my faults this day…there was this Hebrew…”” – Genesis 40:9-12 NKJV
So even though time had passed, Joseph was remembered. Once he interpreted Pharaoh’s dream (foretelling a severe famine), many life-changing things were set into motion. He was released from prison, elevated to governor, and placed in charge of preparing for the famine (which eventually led to his family moving to Egypt). In the end, the timing had more to do with God’s plan than a forgetful friend.
Do you ever wonder about timing? Perhaps you feel someone “dropped the ball” on your behalf or the “in-between time” continues to drag on forever. God’s plan may not be visible yet, but it’s there nonetheless, and His timing is always, always…always perfect.
I haven’t posted much about the election, but the selective outrage within Christian circles compels me to. Some are saying they can’t possibly vote for Donald Trump since they’re a person of conscience and principle (even if it means Hillary wins). Ok, that’s fine, but if you’re one of them, please hear my heart. That position is the equivalent to painting yourself into an ideological corner. So now what? Your spending is a form of voting every day, so when do the boycotts begin of all the Fortune 500 companies that support agendas opposed to biblical principles (Disney, Apple, Facebook, Starbucks, Hollywood, etc.)? The ugly truth is, they aren’t. To be clear, I’m not calling for them to, or not to; just calling for consistency. You can’t get hyper-spiritual about Donald Trump, then look the other way because it’s your favorite brand or vacation destination. That would describe something the world often accuses us with…hypocrisy. And they would be right.
In recent days, I’ve seen wise, godly men (who dared speak about the serious judicial impact of a Hillary victory) be mocked and ridiculed by others in the Christian community, and it makes me angry and sad. Is that really where we are now? The bottom line is this; God has used people of many descriptions (flaws included) over the centuries to change the course of history. I don’t know about you, but I pray this may be one of those times.
What does it mean to be a friend?
Is it shared time or mutual interests? Maybe it’s a common connection like school, sports, work or a hobby? One great description for friendship is trust. It’s simply an earned confidence that says, “I trust this person.” The Bible describes Abraham in various ways, but there’s something extra special about this one:
“And the scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him as righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God.” – James 2:23 NKJV
He was called the “Friend of God.” He trusted the Lord with a proven confidence in Him and His character. But for two people to form a friendship, it must go both ways. If one is always the taker, and the other is always the giver; the friendship eventually fails. With God, His part is always faithful and true, so it’s up to us to reciprocate; and Abraham did.
Could your relationship with God be accurately described as “friendship”? Jesus not only forgives sin (which is huge), He also made the way for us to know God. He said to His followers, “I have called you friends” (John 15:15). What kind of friend will you be today?
“The Lord hates six things; in fact, seven are detestable to Him: arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that plots wicked schemes, feet eager to run to evil, a lying witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up trouble among brothers.” – Proverbs 6:16-19 HCSB
Those are strong words. The motives and schemes of people are clearly known to the Lord and nothing “slips” past Him. We must remember that His pattern throughout scripture is patience and forgiveness, but when He takes action, it’s final.
The world can be a tragically hopeless place. Daily news events and the actions of people can leave a person feeling discouraged about life and the future. As believers, we hear the word hope a lot, but on occasion it can feel quite illusive. So, with circumstances often working against hope, what are the specific building blocks of a hopeful heart?
The answer involves two parts, with the first being the “filling”. Consider this verse:
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13 NKJV
God is the one who fills us with hope, but the interesting thing is what happens at the beginning. Before hope is realized, joy and peace must be present in the heart; and they are directly tied to belief. What a person believes to be true, has everything to do with their outlook on tomorrow. When there’s faith in God’s leadership, then there’s hope about what the day may bring; and through the power of the Holy Spirit, it’s not just present, it’s abounding. “Now may the God of hope fill you…”
Tripping over something can be embarrassing (especially in public); and sometimes wounded pride can also be accompanied by injury. In the household of faith, we’re commanded to take extra care regarding the placement of “spiritual furniture” around our life’s living room. The reason is there may be a routine or activity we’re comfortable with that inadvertently causes another to stumble. Consider this charge:
“Therefore, let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.” –Romans 14:13 NKJV
The life of liberty in Christ is filled with freedom. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice; sin’s curse is broken, the Law’s requirements are fulfilled, and abundant life is experienced. However, we don’t walk away from the altar without responsibilities. We’re instructed to learn, grow, mature, and serve. The life of a disciple isn’t one of perpetual adolescence, it’s one of influence…the right kind of influence. Occasionally, that means some habits need a second look. According to Romans 14:7, we live to the Lord, not ourselves; and caring for what He cares for…people.
“I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure.” – Psalm 16:8-9 NIV
Are your eyes focused on Him today? Don’t let a person, program or distraction get in the way of truly seeing the Mighty King of Heaven in His glory. Celebrate His majesty, gain strength from His presence, and find rest in His unparalleled power. He is worthy of our worship and praise!
“Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10 NKJV
What does it mean to be a “good neighbor”? Is it watching out for another’s property while they’re on vacation? Putting someone’s trash container away? Or taking a meal during a sickness? Very simply, it’s “Christlikeness”. In Romans chapters 12-13, Paul is talking about “putting on Christ” in every circle of our life. Whether it’s vocational or personal, he says to “live peaceably” and “walk properly”. He even says to respect government officials and pay taxes with a good attitude. That can be especially challenging when the leaders aren’t very “respectable”; but an honest consideration of the political context in which he wrote those words, it’s hard to justify not doing so.
At the end of the day, to “put on Christ” is to go beyond being neighborly to the ones who are neighborly, it’s also doing so to the ones who aren’t. Often that takes the empowering of the Holy Spirit; and in His power today, may we be “good neighbors”.
Evil is restless.
It’s never content with marginal status, and the Bible teaches that a proper defense is actually a posture of offense. In Romans chapter 12, there’s a series of directives given for the active, grace-filled life. There are things like authentic love, kindness, diligence in hospitality, empathy with those hurting, rejoicing with those who are happy, a humble attitude, and pursuing peace with all who are willing. And at the end of the chapter there’s this:
“Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good.” –Romans 12:21 NKJV
Over the centuries, many have been overcome. Again, evil is restless. God told Cain that sin was at his door, and ready to pounce; but Cain held onto his feelings toward Abel and was overcome. King Saul was once friendly toward David, but jealously crept in and he was overcome. The early church was experiencing love and fellowship, but then posturing, pettiness and pride showed up; and many were overcome.
How about you today? Will you “cling to what is good”? What will your posture of offense look like? Perhaps there’s a particular situation needing diffusion. Perhaps there’s a person in need of a conversation. Or perhaps there’s a need for some prayerful honesty. “Overcome evil with good…”
Drunken decisions are less wise than sober; because thoughts are better without impairment.
Incidentally, the idea of clear, sober thinking is how Paul finishes up his thorough discussion of sin, faith, law, and grace (Romans Ch.1-11). Starting off chapter 12, he says to walk as “living sacrifices”, being transformed in thinking, and then gives these instructions for the disciple to ponder along the way:
“…not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.” – Romans 12:3b NKJV
Stop and consider the full meaning of grace. Without it there would be no hope of knowing God or serving Him; and as a servant in His Kingdom, there is only one rank…“Redeemed”.
How will you finish this statement today, “God has dealt with me…”?
“For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the Lord, and He watches all his paths.” – Proverbs 5:21 NASB
There is no secret life before the Lord. All we do is open to His view, and there’s no need to fret when people appear to “get away” with wickedness. Thankfully, His instructions are available, but we must read them. The Holy Spirit will guide, but we must follow. And along with those two wonderful truths, He also offers forgiveness, but we must confess. What will be “your way” today?
Israel rejected Jesus as the Messiah.
He was in their temple, their marketplaces and their homes; yet many didn’t embrace Him as Lord. The moment had come and gone for the introduction of the promised King…and the majority chose not to follow. For that reason, Paul said their branch was “broken off” and a new one grafted in. However, the Bible also says they can be grafted in again upon turning to belief in Christ (Romans 11:17-24).
There was a clear change in direction with the birth of the Church, but not a total rejection of His chosen people. His hand was righteously firm, but without a spite-filled vindictive attitude. God’s ways are higher than ours and so are His actions. Paul summed it up this way:
“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!” –Romans 11:33 NKJV
He’s beyond our ability to completely define, but is always consistent in character. That means, growing as a disciple is more about learning His nature, than about “figuring Him out”.
So, how do you pray? Is it for answers, or do you desire a conversation? Knowing Christ is about fellowship. Are you listening too, or just talking? Unsearchable…oh the depths.
Have you ever been asked for advice?
Or perhaps circumstances have compelled you to offer advice to someone not asking for it; like your child, student, subordinate, friend, or family member. Either way, when it comes to right and wrong, what should differentiate a follower of Christ’s counsel from random thoughts? After all, many people who don’t know Christ have life experience. What’s different about godly counsel?
The answer: It’s the “non-negotiable” parts of the conversation.
As disciples, we’re to look specifically to God’s Word for “framing” life experiences. And when we recount those experiences to others, they should also be framed by God’s Word. For example, Paul wasn’t shy about his Damascus road conversion, but he didn’t solely rely on feelings and emotions to put it in perspective either. He drew from the words of the prophets and patriarchs to frame it. He was always tying points back to the scriptures. Consider his words:
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”–Romans 10:17 NKJV
Whether it’s a feeling, a relationship, or an experience; look to God’s Word to interpret and process it. And when you give counsel, be sure to frame it according to God’s Word as well. It doesn’t necessarily mean you quote chapter and verse, but there should always be consistency with the principles of the Bible.
That’s when it moves from “I feel”, to “The Bible teaches…”
“But I trust in Your unfailing love, my heart rejoices in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.” – Psalm 13:5-6 NIV
God’s love is pure and absolute. With Him, there are no ulterior motives or pretenses; and He has chosen to show kindness and grace. Does your heart trust Him? Do you rejoice in the amazing privilege of knowing Him? He is good…may His name be praised today!
Clay pottery is a common artifact found at many archeological digs.
It’s often a welcomed find for its ability to tell stories and reveal clues about who made it. Someone gathered the material, envisioned a designed, fashioned the clay, and fired it in an oven. The story of pottery pieces reveal sourcing, purpose, creativity, beauty and more.
As disciples, we too are formed by the hand of someone who gathered the material, envisioned a design, and fashioned the clay into something serviceable; however, the challenge is the “serviceable” part. Sometimes it’s simply from a lack of understanding the role, but more often than not it’s from lack of appreciation of the role, not understanding. In those moments, it’s good to remember who did the creating, and who still has the power over the pottery:
“Does not the potter have power over the clay…?” –Romans 9:21 NKJV
Do you understand your role for this day? Do you appreciate it, or do you struggle against it? Are you working to fulfill your role in a way that honors Christ? Pottery should reveal clues about the Maker…
Have you ever investigated something and found solid evidence to support a conclusion?
The Bible teaches that faith is the evidence of something “unseen” (Hebrews 11:1). Paul the Apostle was not someone who relied on fables or “hope-so” religion, he was trained at an early age to study the scriptures intensely and base conclusions on it. At conversion, he began a journey of knowing Christ personally to go along with his vast knowledge of the text. After years of ministry, and extreme circumstances, he wrote these words to define his rock-solid position regarding Christ’s faithful love:
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of Christ.” –Romans 8:38-39 NIV
Have you ever considered the implications of the fact that absolutely, positively nothing can separate us from the love of Christ? As disciples, we don’t earn God’s love, nor is it dependent on circumstances or feelings. He chooses to love us and there’s not one thing the enemy can do to change it. Have you thanked Him for that today? Are you walking in the confidence of it?
Some items have significant worth, even if the monetary value is low.
For example, a loved one’s photo may be worthless on an auction site, but priceless to you. It’s often described as having “sentimental value”. As followers of Christ, God places a certain value on us personally. And He not only values us, He protects us as well. As a matter of fact, these incredible words of encouragement sum it up:
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” –Romans 8:31 NKJV
And if that’s not enough to fortify your soul, consider this verse to go with it:
“Yet in all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” –Romans 8:37 NKJV
It doesn’t matter what value others place on you because God’s accounting is all that really matters. We’re kept by his hand, and that’s a secure place to be.
What brings fear to your heart today? Is it intimidating people, challenging situations, or maybe the unknown? Remember who watches over you, and walk in His strength. “If God is for you, who can be against you?”
cchrisholland 