Bringing EVERYONE back into the fold

Many think that God is looking forward to casting people away into judgment and dooming all of those who do not believe in the Son. On the contrary! Is that what a Father would desire for His children. Look at how Anne Cetas of Our Daily Bread puts it eloquently:

In our Bible-study class, we were reading Ephesians 4:17-24 out loud when Alyssa began to cry. Most of us were wondering why, when she quietly said, “I’m crying because hearing this passage read out loud makes me see the condition that lost people are in. They’re separated from God and are blind to it! That breaks my heart.”

One person in the class admitted later that he was embarrassed he had never felt that sad about nonbelievers and had in the past even talked excitedly about the judgment they would receive one day from God.

The apostle Paul laid out the condition of the lost with these words: “[They have] their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God . . . because of the blindness of their heart” (Eph. 4:18). He testified that he had “great sorrow and continual grief in [his] heart” because his fellow countrymen had not yet come to know the love of Christ (Rom. 9:1-3).

As we think about the condition of nonbelievers, we can remember God’s heart toward them: “The Lord is . . . longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). When we share the Word of God and pray earnestly for others, eyes will be opened to His love. — Anne Cetas

God wishes to commune with all members of His one big, happy family. Just as He yearns to bring back the lost, so should we.

God's Command to Live

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged." -Joshua 1:9

Isn't that fascinating? God has commanded us to be strong and be courageous. God has commanded us to go forth boldly to proclaim His name. God has commanded us to live life abundantly. Those who are fearful, who complain, who worry ... STOP! There is no need, for God is above and out of the reach of all of that and assures us that we can be too, if we heed His commands. It's a direct command from God to be strong and courageous, so go be strong and courageous, will ya? Because God says so!

The Law of Love

"Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."
-Romans 13:10

What a profound statement from the Word! Love, which God has shown us immeasurably, is the one and only thing that keeps us all on the right path. In fact, the previous verse (v. 9) says essentially that all of the commandments that have been decreed by God and by man can be satisfied and summed up by one encompassing idea: loving our neighbors as we love ourselves, proclaimed by God (see Leviticus 19:18) and His Son as the greatest commandment of all (see Mark 12:30-31).

Julie Ackerman Link from Our Daily Bread beautifully explains:

God had a relationship with Adam and Eve that was based on loving trust. The only rule necessary was one that protected them from knowledge that would end in death. But when disobedience broke the trusting relationship, God added more rules to protect the wayward couple and their offspring.

In Christ, God proclaimed once more that the good life He wants for us is not about rules but a relationship. As Paul wrote, all the commandments can be summarized in one word: love. Because we are “in Christ,” we can enjoy peace with God and others—not because there’s a rule, but because there is love.

If we love each other, then we abide by God's law. The laws are there to help us remain in God's love.

The Omnipresent Holy Spirit & Trinity

The famous Biblical episode of the apostles receiving the Holy Spirit during Pentecost in Acts 2 is a fulfillment of Jesus' promise of a Comforter and Counselor that will remind them (and us) of the work and salvation of Jesus (see John 14:26). But, this is not the first appearance and impact of the Holy Spirit:

• David knew the Holy Spirit abided in him (Psalm 51:11; Mark 12:36)
• Mary and Elizabeth were filled with the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:28, 30; Luke 1:41)
• Simeon, via the Holy Spirit, recognized Jesus as the Christ, as God promised (Luke 2:25-35)
• The Holy Spirit abided with Jesus Himself (e.g. Luke 3:22; Luke 4:1)

The Trinity is that much more appreciated in light of various ways shown here that God impacted lives. From the very beginning, the Trinity existed (Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground." [Genesis 1:26]). And, forever, the Trinity shall be. (Revelation 22:13)

Verses of conviction

"[F]or all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" -Romans 3:23

"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." -Romans 5:8

"[F]or, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'" -Romans 10:13

How powerful the Word of God is: it has the power to change hearts. "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" (I Corinthians 1:18). AMEN!

Be a blessing!

Many know the story of Joseph and Potiphar's wife as a story of a godly man using his faithfulness to overcome temptation. But, here's an oft-overlooked part of the passage from which we can glean an additional life application:

"Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there. The LORD was with Joseph and he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned. From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. The blessing of the LORD was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field. So he left in Joseph's care everything he had; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate."

-Genesis 39:1-6

God has a purpose for all things. It was no accident that Joseph and Potiphar, two men with vastly different histories, would be in the same household. And by this association, Potiphar and his household were blessed. God was with Joseph through all things. Because Potiphar witnessed God via Joseph, he showed favor to Joseph and God showed favor to Potiphar for that genuine association. Joseph was a blessing to Potiphar and Potiphar was a blessing to Joseph (in that he left all the affairs of his household to Joseph - what trust...). When we associate ourselves with those who live a life pleasing and faithful to God, nothing but good things and blessings will flow. As people can be a blessing to us, we must also be a blessing to others as well. As long as God is glorified through all people involved, prosperity and blessings shall reign from on high. On the other hand, looking at the accounts of Absalom (specifically II Samuel 16:15 - 17:23) and Rehoboam (I Kings 12:1-19), it can be seen that surrounding oneself with ungodly, self-serving people will ultimately lead to hardship, destruction and even death. Serving yourself and not being a blessing, surrounding yourself with those of similar negative attitudes, will subject you to the punishment and judgment of God (see II Samuel 17:14 & I Kings 12:15).

God created all of us to be partners in His Kingdom. We must all work together, enrich & bless each other to invoke heaven on earth. Being at odds with our fellow man is a waste of energy and resources that will yield no benefit. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded people who long to be with God is a blessing. That, in turn, allows us to be a blessing for those individuals and also to those who have yet to experience the love of God, for which we are witnesses. That will increase our "circle of blessing" even further. To have the entire world in that "circle of blessing" ... what a joy that would be for us and for God our Father! If Joseph and Potiphar never crossed paths, who knows where Potiphar's life may have ended up? But, having been blessed with the life of Joseph, we know he experienced the blessings and provisions of God Himself on his household and life. Let's follow that same example and...

BE A BLESSING!

Resist temptation! Do not succumb!

Temptations abound in this world. No one is free from its wiles. See how the Old Testament and New Testament remedies the situation (via the Daily Bread):

The Tempted Brothers

ODB RADIO: Listen Now | Download
READ: Genesis 39:1-12

How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? —Genesis 39:9

Two brothers—both far from home —faced similar temptations. One, working away from the family, fell to the schemes of a younger woman. His sin led to embarrassment and family turmoil. The other, separated from loved ones because of family turmoil, resisted the advances of an older woman. His faithfulness led to rescue and renewal for the family.

Who are these brothers? Judah, who fell to the desperate scheme of his neglected daughter-in-law Tamar (Gen. 38). And Joseph, who ran from the arms of Potiphar’s wife (Gen. 39). One chapter, an ugly story of irresponsibility and deception; the other, a beautiful chapter of faithfulness.

The stories of Judah and Joseph, presented back-to-back in the midst of “the history of Jacob” (37:2), show us that temptation itself is not the problem. Everybody faces temptation, even Jesus did (Matt. 4:1-11). But how do we face temptation? Do we demonstrate that faith in God can shield us from giving in to sin?

Joseph gave us one way of escape: Recognize sin as an affront to God and run from it. Jesus gave another: Answer temptation with truth from God’s Word.

Facing temptation? See it as an opportunity to make God and His Word real in your life. Then run! —Dave Branon

For Further Study
To gain insight into how to say no to temptation, check out Resisting The Lure: Recognizing The Dangers Of Sexual Temptation at www.discoveryseries.org/q0707

We fall into temptation when we don’t stand against it.

What salt does...

"You are the salt of the earth." -Matthew 5:13

Jesus said we are the salt of the earth, giving us purpose in our lives. We, as salt, can influence others and make others thirsty for the Living Water. By our lives, we can draw others to Him, the Source of eternal and everlasting life. Doesn't get much better than that...

Prayer: The Difference-Maker

Does prayer really make a difference at all? What's the use, especially if some just go unanswered? Well, let the book of Revelation and Philip Yancey reveal the reality and importance of prayer:

When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.
And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets.
Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all the saints, on the golden altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, went up before God from the angel's hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake.

-Revelation 8:1-5

Does prayer have any real impact on our world? Or is it merely a private conversation with God?
When a New Jersey couple learned that a man had been released from prison and had moved into their area, they started praying for him. Then they paid him a visit and opened their home to a weekly breakfast for ex-offenders like him. Now, 22 years later, the area’s most despised men have one place to go where they are welcomed and treated respectfully.
What would happen if we followed literally Jesus’ command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us? What if we became known for approaching heaven on behalf of outcasts and disagreeable people?
In a scene recorded in the book of Revelation, the apostle John foresees a direct linkage between the visible and invisible worlds. At a climactic moment in history, heaven is quiet. Seven angels stand with seven trumpets, waiting. Silence reigns, as if all heaven is listening on tiptoe. Then an angel collects the prayers of God’s people on earth—all the accumulated prayers of praise, lament, abandonment, despair, petition—mixes them with incense, and presents them before the throne of God (8:1-4). The silence finally breaks when the fragrant prayers are hurled down to earth: setting off a storm of “thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake” (v.5).
The message is clear. The prayers are essential agents in the final victory over evil, suffering, and death. — Philip Yancey

Jesus' Mission (Should you choose to accept it)

As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it.' "
Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?"
They replied, "The Lord needs it."

-Luke 19:29-34

Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover."
"Where do you want us to prepare for it?" they asked.
He replied, "As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, and say to the owner of the house, 'The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?' He will show you a large upper room, all furnished. Make preparations there."
They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.

-Luke 22:7-13

I find both of these situations fascinating and amazing. Jesus has a plan in mind for what He wants to accomplish. So, He sends His disciples to carry out His instructions. Now, keep in mind: Jesus has not called an "event organizer" beforehand to prepare the details of these events. The owners of the colt don't know ahead of time that the disciples are coming to get it. Who are the man carrying the water jar and house owner? Those details are unknown and not needed. But, Jesus uses those nameless people and the resources they can provide to carry out His plans.

I mean, if some people came from up the street and took your bike from the side of your house, some explanation and hootin' & hollerin' may be necessary. But, these owners of the colt, upon hearing that the Lord needs it, gave their colt without further explanation! Moreover, Peter and John must have thought, "There are many people carrying water jars at this time. How will we know which one to talk to? Also, what random owner will allow us strangers to use his house for our meal?" Yet, as they entered the city, it all unfolded just as Jesus told them, furnished room and all, with the full cooperation of the man with the water jar and house owner. Wow...

God's will be done. God's plans be accomplished. Fully trusting in Jesus opens avenues that we think are impossible to go through, but He makes it happen. It may feel like you may be asked to do things that are way out of the ordinary and, dare I say, foolhardy. But, with God, NOTHING is impossible. In Him, we put our trust and hope. AMEN!

While On Earth, God's Work Be Done

"The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance." —Psalm 112:6

The purpose of our lives while here on earth, as beautifully depicted by David H. Roper:

One reason we’re left here on earth and not taken to heaven immediately after trusting in Christ for salvation is that God has work for us to do. “Man is immortal,” Augustine said, “until his work is done.”
The time of our death is not determined by anyone or anything here on earth. That decision is made in the councils of heaven. When we have done all that God has in mind for us to do, then and only then will He take us home—and not one second before. As Paul put it, “David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep” (Acts 13:36).
In the meantime, until God takes us home, there’s plenty to do. “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day,” Jesus said. “Night is coming when no one can work” (John 9:4). Night is coming when we will once for all close our eyes on this world, or our Lord will return to take us to be with Him. Each day brings that time a little closer.
As long as we have the light of day, we must work—not to conquer, acquire, accumulate, and retire, but to make visible the invisible Christ by touching people with His love. We can then be confident that our “labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58).

When people are swept away from us suddenly or slowly, the predominant question is always, "Why?" God has appointed a time for all of us. When our work here is complete, in God's eyes, He wants us to come back Home and rest. The Acts and John verses above really resonate that notion. God knows, so we should trust fully.

RIP Shibu SAYF (The Journey Home)

My heart is heavy because a person near and dear to me passed away suddenly a few days back. I will not find solace and comfort here in this world. But, our God is amazing. Look at this reassuring Daily Bread message He left for me and all of us today.

"[Abraham] waited for the city . . . whose builder and maker is God." —Hebrews 11:10

Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, was diagnosed years ago with the terminal disease pulmonary fibrosis. Eventually he required prolonged bed rest. Bright used this time of quiet reflection to write a book called The Journey Home.

In his book, Bright quotes Charles Haddon Spurgeon, who said: “May we live here like strangers and make the world not a house, but an inn, in which we sup and lodge, expecting to be on our journey tomorrow.”

Struck by Spurgeon’s perspective concerning his own terminal prognosis, Bright commented: “Knowing that heaven is our real home makes it easier to pass through the tough times here on earth. I have taken comfort often in the knowledge that the perils of a journey on earth will be nothing compared to the glories of heaven.”

Abraham, the friend of God, illustrates this same otherworldly orientation: “By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country . . . for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God” (Heb. 11:9-10). His sojourn was that of a traveling foreigner, who by faith sought an eternal city constructed by God.

Whether death is near or far away, let’s exhibit a faith that focuses on our eternal home. — Dennis Fisher

Home from the earthly journey,
Safe for eternity;
All that the Savior promised—
That is what heaven will be. —Anon.

We may walk a desert pathway, but the end of the journey is the Garden of God.

All of us who mourn in this time will find rest and peace in the arms of our Comforter up above. Abide in Him. RIP my brother in Christ. Please pray for all who have been affected by this sudden loss.

Give YOURSELVES to God first

Another good one from the daily devotional, Our Daily Bread:

The practice of tipping is commonly accepted in many countries. But I wonder: Has this courtesy influenced our attitude toward giving money to the church?

Many Christians regard their financial giving as little more than a goodwill gesture to God for the service He has rendered us. They think that as long as they have given their tithe to God, the rest is theirs to handle as they please. But the Christian life is about so much more than money!

The Bible tells us that our Creator owns “the cattle on a thousand hills” (Ps. 50:10). “The world is Mine,” God says, “and all its fullness” (v.12). Everything comes from Him, and everything we have belongs to Him. God has not only given us every material thing we have, He has also given us His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, who provides our very salvation.

Paul used the Macedonian Christians as an illustration of what our giving should look like in the light of God’s incredible generosity toward us. The Macedonians, who were in “deep poverty,” gave with “liberality” (2 Cor. 8:2). But “they first gave themselves to the Lord” (v.5).

God the Creator of the universe does not need anything from us. He doesn’t want a tip. He wants us! — C. P. Hia

Always remember: "Though [Jesus Christ] was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor." —II Corinthians 8:9

When you give yourselves to God first, then the spirit of giving will naturally follow and outflow. Giving won't be a burden then - it will be a natural response to God's children in need. God gave His Son for our sake - we must give our all for our God.

"Come and Rest in Christ's Hands"

[Jesus said,] "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." -Matthew 11:28

"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake." -Psalm 23:1-3

What comfort... What blessed assurance! Stop living in 4th gear all the time. Take rest in the arms of Jesus. God wants you to rest because He makes you lie down. Rest and abide in the presence of the Lord.

Urgent Message from David Wilkerson

The following is a message from Times Square Church's Reverend David Wilkerson. All I can say is ... well, there is nothing really to say. See for yourself.

An Urgent Message

An Earth-Shattering Calamity Is About To Happen

by David Wilkerson | March 7, 2009

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March 7, 2009

I am compelled by the Holy Spirit to send out an urgent message to all on our mailing list, and to friends and to bishops we have met all over the world.

AN EARTH-SHATTERING CALAMITY IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN. IT IS GOING TO BE SO FRIGHTENING, WE ARE ALL GOING TO TREMBLE — EVEN THE GODLIEST AMONG US.

For ten years I have been warning about a thousand fires coming to New York City. It will engulf the whole megaplex, including areas of New Jersey and Connecticut. Major cities all across America will experience riots and blazing fires — such as we saw in Watts, Los Angeles, years ago.

There will be riots and fires in cities worldwide. There will be looting — including Times Square, New York City. What we are experiencing now is not a recession, not even a depression. We are under God’s wrath. In Psalm 11 it is written,

“If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (v. 3).

God is judging the raging sins of America and the nations. He is destroying the secular foundations.

The prophet Jeremiah pleaded with wicked Israel, “God is fashioning a calamity against you and devising a plan against you. Oh, turn back each of you from your evil way, and reform your ways and deeds. But they will say, It’s hopeless! For we are going to follow our own plans, and each of us will act according to the stubbornness of his evil heart” (Jeremiah 18:11–12).

In Psalm 11:6, David warns, “Upon the wicked he will rain snares (coals of fire)…fire…burning wind…will be the portion of their cup.” Why? David answered, “Because the Lord is righteous” (v. 7). This is a righteous judgment — just as in the judgments of Sodom and in Noah’s generation.

WHAT SHALL THE RIGHTEOUS DO? WHAT ABOUT GOD’S PEOPLE?

First, I give you a practical word I received for my own direction. If possible lay in store a thirty-day supply of non-perishable food, toiletries and other essentials. In major cities, grocery stores are emptied in an hour at the sign of an impending disaster.

As for our spiritual reaction, we have but two options. This is outlined in Psalm 11. We “flee like a bird to a mountain.” Or, as David says, “He fixed his eyes on the Lord on his throne in heaven — his eyes beholding, his eyelids testing the sons of men” (v. 4). “In the Lord I take refuge” (v. 1).

I will say to my soul: No need to run…no need to hide. This is God’s righteous work. I will behold our Lord on his throne, with his eye of tender, loving kindness watching over every step I take — trusting that he will deliver his people even through floods, fires, calamities, tests, trials of all kinds.

Note: I do not know when these things will come to pass, but I know it is not far off. I have unburdened my soul to you. Do with the message as you choose.

God bless and keep you.

In Christ,
DAVID WILKERSON

DW:bbm 3.7.09

"But my eyes are fixed on you, O Sovereign LORD;
in you I take refuge—do not give me over to death."
-Psalm 141:8

Whatever the future holds, keep yourself secure in the safe sanctuary of our God. Hold strong to your faith and do not fear, for your God will never leave you nor forsake you. Be a living sanctuary and stronghold anchored on the Rock of Ages.

Marriage: What God Knew All Along

I have seen this passage a few times, but upon reading it and thinking about it for a bit, I believe God showed some angles that I wasn't paying attention to, but are quite fascinating and comforting.

Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good for a man not to marry. But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband. The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. I say this as a concession, not as a command. I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.

Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I am. But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.

-I Corinthians 7:1-9

Marriage takes on a greater meaning when we examine this carefully. Marriage is a sacrament ordained by God. Modern society has devalued marriage to the nature of a light switch - on again, off again at a whim. It is so much more. We think we orchestrate marriage - no, it is God who ordains it, makes it possible and arranges it to accommodate our needs. If we break what God has brought together, we put ourselves in a position greater than God - that is sacrilegious and unacceptable. I can't thank God enough for providing me with someone who, in the truest sense of the word, completes me.

But, delving further into marriage, examining the I Corinthians passage, we see how God really knew our needs and addressed them through marriage. Here's how I interpret it (correct me if I'm wrong):
In an ideal world (without sin), there would be no need for marriage, because man would have full reliance on God and would seek no other for satisfaction of needs. Yet, after the fall of man, man wanted to rely on himself and others to be fully satisfied. These urges are so strong and, if it were up to us, we would go to anyone and then someone else to find satisfaction. In light of this, God says, "Listen, I know what your urges and desires are (of the flesh). Here's what I'll do: I will provide you with someone who you can devote yourself to and this person will be yours forever. Two shall become one. I would rather you find satisfaction with this person alone whom I have provided than with multiple sources." Recall in the previous chapter that Paul says, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body" (I Corinthians 6:19-20). God does not want you to use what is His for your own pleasures and pollution; find your satisfaction in someone who God knows is compatible with you, your body and your needs.

Because we lack self-control, God wants us to come together with our marital partner and not deprive ourselves of each other. The institution of marriage is our release; the love flowing between those married (a product of God's love for us) naturally accentuates the satisfaction of desires, keeping our God-given bodies pure. If we do not see married life in that light, then we yearn to satisfy our desires elsewhere outside of marriage and that's when Satan's power becomes greatest and most persuasive, corrupting what God has given to us as a gift. That's when the seductions of the world can bring our lives to ruin. If those types of passions burn within us, God wants us to marry so that we have an avenue to take care of those needs. With those needs addressed, our time communing with God in devotion and prayer becomes focused and unadulterated. Paul calls it a "concession," not a "command" - there are those who can control these desires, like Paul himself. But God says that it is okay if you cannot - God has provided you the avenue of marriage to express your love and passion for another.

Upon this reflection, I am just so amazed at God and His Word. When you meditate and dedicate time to Him, He reveals truths for an abundant life. Why do people look elsewhere? God is the Source of everything - He is your Everything. God says that whatever you need Me to be, come to Me, rely on Me and realize that, "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14)

Swept up by Twitter!

Facebook? Oh no... But Twitter...? Ever since I saw half of Congress "twittering" on their phones and Blackberries during President Obama's address, my attention was piqued. Then PTI started to Twitter it up. If you build it, they will come. It's been around since 2006, but now the Twitter wave is starting to roll. It's just status updates. Answering that eternal question: "Hey, what are you doing?" So, I got a Twitter feed on the bottom right of this blog. It could prove to be a time-suck, but on the other hand, it could be quite useful. It could just be another passing fad for me, or it could stick. Stay tuned...

Oh, by the way: "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." -I Corinthians 6:19-20

"The Love of God"

What a beautiful, vivid hymn this is...

Could we with ink the ocean fill
And were the skies
of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love of God above
Would drain the ocean dry,
Nor could the scroll
contain the whole
Though stretched from sky to sky.

"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." -Ephesians 3:17-19

Just a taste...

"Taste and see that the LORD is good."
-Psalm 34:8

You know, I remember a time when I didn't like and didn't understand the logic for pumpkin pie. I mean, other pies made sense: apple pie, cherry pie, key lime pie - these fruits were appropriate for pie creation. But, PUMPKIN...! You carve pumpkins for Halloween - you roll them around in pumpkin patches - they scare the woo-ha out of you sometimes in movies. But, pumpkin pie ... I shuddered at the thought. And, we would always have pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving meals and I would always stay a safe distance away from it. But, one time during our one of our family Thanksgiving get-togethers, someone in our family said, "Come on, just give this pie a taste. You're not going to like it if you don't try it. If you pass out, don't worry, we'll call an ambulance." So, I built up the courage and intestinal fortitude to take a slice of the pumpkin pie and give it a taste ... and, MAN, it was good! What have I been missing all my life?! Now I can't get enough and look forward to dessert on Thanksgiving. In fact, the day after Thanksgiving, many supermarkets sell their leftover pumpkin pies for ridiculously cheap (just to get rid of them), like 49 cents each. Whereas most people will be lining up on Black Friday at Best Buy or the mall to get a head-start on Christmas shopping and sales, you are sure to find me at the local King Kullen, rolling out of the store with 10 to 15 pumpkin pies. (Ok, maybe not that many, but I stock up for the harsh winter ahead... ;) )

But, if I didn't take that taste, I would never have known how good the pie was. Psalm 34:8 is exactly the same idea. All you need is a "taste" of God to experience how good ... no, how GREAT God really is. Some people think that God is too restrictive in terms of how one can live. Others assume that having God control their lives will lead to a mundane, boring, joyless way of life. But, how do you know unless if you experience it for yourself? Assumptions will never give the complete picture; personal experience and witnessing of the love of God reveal the true liberation of one's life. By sampling His word and truly making a commitment to have a personal relationship with Jesus and His Father, that initial taste will have you wanting more ... needing more. The joy, the love, the freedom that flows into your life is something that you will not be able to get enough of. You will want to go back to the Source of your life, your needs and your salvation to satisfy that hunger within you. When you just taste of what the Lord has done and will do for you, you will not turn back to your old ways. You will see the goodness of God.

God only wants what is good for us. He is our Father in heaven. If you yield to Him, you will be fulfilled by Him. And realize this: though pumpkin pies may cost 49 cents the day after Thanksgiving, God's goodness is available for you free of charge. Your salvation has been paid in full. The following hymn tells it like it is:

Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe.
Sin had left a crimson stain -
He washed it white as snow.

One true love this Valentine's Day

Today's Daily Bread article really stood out for me, so I thought I'd post here. Some powerful, inspirational verses which attests God's love for His children.

WRITTEN IN RED

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READ: 1 John 4:7-19

God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. —1 John 4:9

My first Bible was printed mostly in black type, but some of its words were in red. It didn’t take me long to discover that the ones in red had been spoken by Jesus.

More than 100 years ago, a man named Louis Klopsch published the first “red-letter” Bible. As he thought about Jesus’ words in Luke 22:20, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you,” he purposely used blood-red ink to call specific attention to His words.

The words of the Bible are priceless to us because they tell of the “love letter” God sent 2,000 years ago in the Person of His Son (1 John 4:10).

Jesus’ purpose in coming to earth as a Man was to die, to be sacrificed, to give His life for ours. God’s plan was written in red—written with “the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Peter 1:19).

Those of us who have accepted God’s gift of love are called to be “letters” to those who don’t know Him. We are epistles of Christ “written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God” (2 Cor. 3:3).

Long before a day in February was set aside to celebrate love, the world received a love letter—and that changed everything (John 3:16). — Cindy Hess Kasper

If you’d like to know the love of God the Father,
Come to Him through Jesus Christ, His loving Son;
He’ll forgive your sins and save your soul forever,
And you’ll love forevermore this faithful One. —Felten

Nothing speaks more clearly of God’s love than the cross of Jesus Christ.

Easier said AND done

Talk about a blog gap. New semester starts are always busy, and this one was no different. Gotta make sure that everything is delicately balanced. Thank God even for this little bit of blog time.

Some men came carrying a paralytic on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus.

When Jesus saw their faith, he said, "Friend, your sins are forgiven."

The Pharisees and the teachers of the law began thinking to themselves, "Who is this fellow who speaks blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

Jesus knew what they were thinking and asked, "Why are you thinking these things in your hearts? Which is easier: to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...." He said to the paralyzed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today."
- Luke 5:18-26

Remarkable! This miracle is really an establishment of Jesus' true authority. Just by His words alone is Jesus able to forgive us our sins: "Friend, your sins are forgiven." The Pharisees disbelieve in this authority. So, Jesus, as only He does best, puts the Pharisees in their place by pretty much saying, "By my voice and my Father's purpose, anything is possible for the good of the people." Jesus gives priority to forgiving the sins of the paralytic over actually eliminating his paralysis. Jesus told the man to get up and walk and "[i]mmediately he stood up in front of them." Likewise, Jesus told the man, "Friend, your sins are forgiven," and immediately, his sins were forgiven. The power of Jesus' voice and authority ... phenomenal & instantaneous. The Pharisees had the visual evidence of Jesus' healing power and yet their hearts were hardened to think that He could possess redemption power. It's funny - Jesus must have been like, "So, you don't believe I can forgive sins (through the authority I have by my Father)? Ok, fine, I'll heal him instead." Yeah, that's commonplace... As if that were any less remarkable!

The power to heal. The power to save. Jesus could do it all ... so that all would believe. "Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today.'"

And so have we...

"He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes."
-Deuteronomy 10:21

The Cure for Lotto Fever

"Do not wear yourself out to get rich;
have the wisdom to show restraint.

Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone,
for they will surely sprout wings
and fly off to the sky like an eagle."
-Proverbs 23:4-5

As I was randomly checking out my blog one day, this verse appeared on the random verse generator right below the header. The verse slapped me right in the face. It's one of those moments where you know God did it on purpose to tell you something that you need to hear RIGHT NOW! When I saw this verse, I was literally doing a combination nod and shake of my head, muttering to myself, "God ... you're good, God ... you're good..." Some people call it coincidence, others call it serendipity - I call Him God! He is purposeful.

My ideal situation is to win the lottery and leave my current job. Winning the lottery would be great:

• I could pay off some outstanding bills.
• I would give a certain percentage to my church and mission projects.
• My family members would get a share.
• I wouldn't stop working altogether (Yes, call me crazy and ridiculous, but I actually enjoy what I do.). After a short sabbatical, I'd be back at it.

So, looks like I got things all mapped out. And, I honestly believe that I wouldn't change much, in terms of my character, after hitting it rich. That's what a lot of people say and I'm in that bunch. But, who knows? I would think I know myself enough to know that I wouldn't change.

But God knows better - He knows my heart.

I was on quite the lotto spiel during this winter break ("Hey, ya never know?"). Not problematically, addictively out-of-control - a couple of dollars here and there. And, listen, I'm a mathematician. The odds of winning the lottery are so astronomically low that it is an act of God if you win. A 1 in 45,057,474 chance of winning! Yes, if you win, then God wanted you to win. But, "hey, ya never know?" The possibility of easing a living situation, to relieve economic burdens, to be able to give your spouse whatever s/he desires - the noble results of being a lottery winner. I thought that if I made my case before God about what winning the lotto would do for me and mine, then God would simply be like, "But, of course. In that case, I grant you these millions." I was even negotiating for second prize ($250,000) or third prize, making my case that I would have the noblest of intentions in using that money.

But God knows better - He knows my heart, He knows my needs and provides for me and mine as I need.

The above Proverbs passage hits the nail on the head. This pursuit of potential money is quite tiresome. "Did I win?" "What's the next jackpot?" "When's the next drawing?" - draining... Even if it is for the noblest of intentions, money can NEVER replace the provisions and blessings of God. He's given me food to eat, clothing on my back, shelter over my head, surrounded me with loving friends and family - in that sense, I am "rich" beyond compare. Why do I complain? I found myself being like Jonah, pleading that things should be done this way. But, God knew the best way all along. God has a plan for me ... for all of us - just allow Him to steer the ship to the promised land (I feel a calling to head up and advise a Christian fellowship in my school. This deserves more energy than elusive riches.); yield control to Him. If it involves winning the lotto, so be it. If not, so be it. His will be done always and forever. Conforming to my Father's will allows me to live life fully and at peace.

Father, I pray for wisdom to restrain myself from fretting over elusive, material riches. Forgive me of my foolishness and shortcomings. Lord, I put my trust in your everlasting, spiritual riches - the "treasures" You have for me in heaven. I pray that Your ways be my ways. Your grace is sufficient for me, my Jehovah Jireh.

Someday, I may win the lottery. But, I'll leave it to God to define that "someday" for me. That's if it's needed at all. God knows better.

Eating as Worship

"If you find honey, eat just enough—
too much of it, and you will vomit." -Proverbs 25:16

Julie A. Link makes a great point in today's Daily Bread article. Caught me as profound:

When we think of food as a friend that comforts us or an enemy that makes us fat, we miss the wonder of receiving with gratitude a splendid gift from God. Obsessive eating or not eating [via extreme dieting] indicates that we are focused on the gift rather than on the Giver, which is a form of idolatry.

Do not abuse a gift of God. Do not place food (or anything, for that matter) above God's rightful place. "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." - I Corinthians 10:31

Happy New Year

In 2008, God was surely good to us in many ways. There for us in the good times and the bad times. Now, as we flip the calendar page, rest assured that His faithfulness is never-ending. In fact, we are reminded in Scripture:

"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness." -Lamentations 3:22-23

Not just every year, but every morning. New compassions every morning - what a comfort and blessed assurance!

Oh Lord Jesus, 2009, we make it Thine and we'll be fine...