The Goal of Faith

I'm just going to say it: I think that many claiming the name "Christian" are such for reasons lacking in scriptural basis. I don't say that to proclaim that I have never had the "wrong reasons" for faith (although, even thinking about that day in 1990 where I met Jesus for real, I think it was more right reasons than wrong reasons for surrendering to him), but just because in my calling, I ask the question often, "So, why do you call yourself a Christian?" I get all kinds of answers, such as:

"I dunno, I've just always gone to church."

"I don't want to go to hell."

"I'm American. Aren't we a Christian nation?"

"My life stinks and I want Jesus to make it better/fix everything/take away the bad people/_______."

"I believe in God. Isn't that enough?"

And on and on and on...

I think we often miss some of the points of faith in Christ. I don't even pretend to have it correct all the time, but as I was reading this morning, I saw something that I haven't paid much attention to. I decided to read on my own "The Peters" (1 & 2 Peter) since a sermon podcast I listen to is spending EONS in those books. Pretty quick, in the first chapter of the first book, I read this:

8Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.: 1 Peter 1:8-9

The goal of faith? Salvation of your soul. That's it. Not your best life now. Not the death of your enemies. Not even just a Get Out of Hell Free Card (certainly that is part of it, and salvation IS with God in eternity as opposed to the opposite...but some folks just seem to "say a salvation prayer" to cover their bases or something...just in case...). It is the fact that our souls NEED saving at all...and that Jesus, the God-man, took care of it through his life, torture, death, and resurrection. And for our salvation, we must release ourselves to Christ. That is the goal of our faith. Oh God, help me to rejoice in that goal alone this day...

The God of This AND That

So, I am trying (for the first time "non-seminary paper related") to read one of the Christian Fathers, Augustine. I received, as a gift, back in 2003 (I think) from my former Sr. Pastor a copy of The Confessions of Saint Augustine. It has mostly just sat on a book shelf to make me look more scholarly. Well, earlier this week, when I started my morning routine again, I picked up the book and said, "I am going to try and fight through this old-ish English translation of a famous collection of writings."

So, I am slowly, SLOWLY, I tell you, trudging through. But I already found a nice thing in the first section, "Childhood". It is a concept I have previously labeled as "The Annoying YES!", which involves the fact that God, despite our best efforts, cannot be limited. That God can simultaneously possess seemingly opposite characteristics, which is tough for us humans as we rarely share that ability. And thus, we tend to make God one or the other...

Well, I am going to shut up now and share what I read the other day and have been pondering...enjoy!

What art Thou then, my God? what, but the Lord God? For who is Lord but the Lord? or who is God save our God? Most highest, most good, most potent, most omnipotent; most merciful, yet most just; most hidden, yet most present; most beautiful, yet most strong; most stable, yet incomprehensible; unchangeable, yet all-changing; never new, never old; all-renewing, and bringing age upon the proud, and they know it not; ever working, ever at rest; still gathering, yet nothing lacking; supporting, filling, and overspreading; creating, nourishing, and maturing; seeking, yet having all things. Thou lovest, without passion; art jealous, without anxiety; repentest, yet grievest not; art angry, yet serene; changest Thy works, Thy purpose unchanged; recievest again what Thou findest, yet didst never lose; never in need, yet rejoicing in gains; never covetest, yet exacting usury.--From The Confessions of Saint Augustine, pgs. 6-7

Now I just need to go find out what "usury" means...

Comfort

The God of All Comfort
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
8We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our[a] behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.


Footnotes:
2 Corinthians 1:11 Many manuscripts your

Have you ever had one of those, "I think God is trying to tell me something"-moments? This passage is one of those. I read it a couple days back and since then it has been a major part of two separate sermons I've listened to while exercising. One interesting thing is that different parts of that passage are standing out to me today than did when I read it originally (a cool aspect of scripture...always something new despite repeated readings!).

You see, at first glance, I was drawn to verses 3 and 4, dealing with all the ways the Lord gives compassion and comfort. But after stewing more, being spoken to through the sermons I mentioned, I am today drawn to verses 5-7:
5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
I too often cry out to God to make me feel better, have peace, experience comfort. But why? Usually for selfish reasons, I have realized these past couple days. I just want to feel better. I want to worry less about the unknown. I want folks to not get upset with me for various reasons. I basically want God to slap a band-aid on me. But is there something deeper to the things gnawing at my heart that God will comfort me in? These two verses talk about that purpose. It is so I can empathize (instead of just sympathize) with others going through similar things. It is about the ministry God wants to do through me where I can relate to others, tell of how God got me through, share wisdom, etc. But, I just don't think about it that way enough...

Take right now, for example. The big issue in the Davis household is my wife Missy's struggles to find a full-time teaching gig. She searched so hard a couple years back, decided to just sub, and through that was hired at a local school. But, they didn't renew her contract for whatever reason, and the past year has been spent frantically searching for another full-time teaching job to fill that void, to satisfy Missy's desire to teach, etc. But so far, no dice. And it's getting frustrating. But we need to ask not just, "God, comfort, please!", or, "Hey God, fix this, ok? Thanks," but instead live in the comfort provided by the Comforter AND then seek to minister to others who may be able to relate. In the midst of all this, we also need to re-visit the concept of contentment . As Mark Matlock on a recent post of his said, "When I look back on my life, I can trace my current place in ministry back to specific moments of obedience to live for God in the "now"." This is where I need to live again. Seeking to be faithful to God NOW. Looking for ways I can live in the comfort he promises and minister to those who may benefit from my experiences.

"DONKEY!" // Numbers 22:21-35

Balaam's Donkey 21 Balaam got up in the morning, saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab. 22 But God was very angry when he went, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding on his donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand, she turned off the road into a field. Balaam beat her to get her back on the road.
24 Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between two vineyards, with walls on both sides. 25 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she pressed close to the wall, crushing Balaam's foot against it. So he beat her again.

26 Then the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn, either to the right or to the left. 27 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she lay down under Balaam, and he was angry and beat her with his staff. 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?"

29 Balaam answered the donkey, "You have made a fool of me! If I had a sword in my hand, I would kill you right now."

30 The donkey said to Balaam, "Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?"
"No," he said.

31 Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell facedown.

32 The angel of the LORD asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. [a] 33 The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared her."

34 Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, "I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back."

35 The angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.


Footnotes:
Numbers 22:32 The meaning of the Hebrew for this clause is uncertain.

Stuff that stood out:

*** 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?": Ok, some backstory: Balaam was a sort-of prophet, oracle, etc., and he was dealing with a king (Balak) from another land who wanted to conquer Israel. God had: yes, told Balaam to walk with Balak, but not to speak unless God told him to. Apparently, Balaam was doing just that: "sort of" following God, but not all the way. So God did what he does...and used the unexpected to get his point across.

He had Balaam's Donkey do the talking. SAY WHAT? But, it got his attention! Sometimes I think I'm "in God's will"...but honestly, I'm only sort-of doing his will. I need to pay more attention to this passage...

*** 32 The angel of the LORD asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. [a] 33 The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared her.": Ouch. Balaam gets completely called out for his trying to do God's will "Balaam's way". That never works. I know that I too often "seek" God's will, but then try to make it happen my way. Not good. And I too have probably treated those around me the same way as Balaam did his donkey...where I wasn't getting my way, and instead of surrendering immediately to the Lord, I make excuses, beat up (metaphorically) those around me who were just trying to help "Get me there", etc. And what does God say? "Without them carrying you...I would have killed you and spared them." Yowsers...

*** 34 Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, "I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back."

35 The angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.: Balaam finally repents and falls on his knees, and essentially states his willingness to abdicate his calling. God then says, "Nope...JUST DO IT MY WAY and you'll be all good..." How sad is it that too often the Lord has to get right in our way to get his point across...but how awesome is it that in his grace and mercy, he still wants US and wants to use us... Oh Lord, help me to seek your way at all times so you don't have to use "talking donkeys"!

Questions for me today:

Am I on;y in "part" of God's will? Am I trying to do it my way?

Who are "donkeys" that are just trying to help and get my attention...but I am punishing instead?

Do I realize, REALLY realize that God doesn't need me, but still WANTS me? How do I respond to that?

...always more for you... // 1 Kings 19:1-18

This passage just rocked my world recently...

Elijah Flees to Horeb
1 Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. 2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, "May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them."
3 Elijah was afraid [a] and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, 4 while he himself went a day's journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors." 5 Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep.
All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat." 6 He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.

7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you." 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. 9 There he went into a cave and spent the night.


The LORD Appears to Elijah
And the word of the LORD came to him: "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
10 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."

11 The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by."
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Then a voice said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"

14 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."

15 The LORD said to him, "Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. 17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."


Footnotes:
1 Kings 19:3 Or Elijah saw

Stuff that stood out:

*** "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."; in verse 4: Oh, how many times have I wondered aloud to God, "What's the point of this?", in reference to me "trying hard to be obedient, do his will, etc.", and feeling like none of it matters? Sadly, too many times. I can surely relate to Elijah here as times when he decides that "enough is enough, already". He is drained. Thinks the message he feels called to deliver is falling on death ears, and at times worse: folks are out to get him! He feels abandoned, purposeless...

*** 7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you." 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.: ...and just then, God shows up, shows his promise to provide and strengthen. I need to always look back at the times I was "done" and frustrated, and remember where God showed up and said, "I am not done with you yet!"

*** 14 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."

15 The LORD said to him, "Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. 17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him.": A big chunk here, I realize...but I think it is all so pertinent. Basically, Elijah once again pleads his case for being justified in his complaining. "I'm working hard, man, and for what? No one cares...no one seems to share the fire I have for You. And they don't really like that I'm calling them on the carpet..." I think everywhere I've ever been in ministry has had a moment or two like that... But God doesn't ignore. He gives purpose, either reaffirmed or brand new. I have likewise ALWAYS found that to be true when I'm feeling like Elijah here...God shows himself to me, gives (or re-gives) purpose, and off I go...

Questions for me today:

Are there areas of my life where I feel like I've been "doing what God wants", but I'm not seeing the results I'd like so I want to bail?

When has God shown himself and his purposes to me at times I've felt "lost"?

Hakuna Matata on Steroids // Matthew 6:19-34

Treasures in Heaven
19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. 23But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

24"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

Do Not Worry
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.


Footnotes:Matthew 6:27 Or single cubit to his height

Stuff that stood out:

*** 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.: I usually have approached this first section (v. 19-24) as simply a challenge to not be so focused on the material, on "stuff". And that is certainly something I need to remember. But is there something bigger, something connected to the next part (dealing more with "worry")? Absolutely. As I read this morning, I started pondering how the material things in life, whether tangible or more abstract, cause me to have worry. Because the more you "have", the more you have to take care of, right? And what about the temptation to keep up with the Joneses, or be "relevant"? Can that cause me unwanted (or un-needed) worry? You betcha. My allegiances thus get split between God and...my stuff that I have to worry about. Oh sure, I need to be grateful for what I've been blessed with and treat it with respect and as a good steward...but it's when I start spending more time with these temporal things (and thus taking time away from the eternal) that it can get out-of-whack. I need to seek often to have these areas exposed to me...and ask God for re-focus.

*** 25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life...; 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]?: Worry is such a strong and potentially paralyzing emotion. I tend to think of myself who doesn't worry, but I know I do. Now, I may not let it consume me like it does some, but I would be lying if I said I never worry. I worry about how I am raising Jax. I worry if I am a good enough husband. I worry if I am doing enough for the kids in the youth group. I worry about money. I worry that one day I will "jump the shark" and say or do some unfiltered, irresponsible thing and alienate a friend or employer. I worry about whether people trust me or not. I worry about my health. I worry about my family's future in general.

So yeah, I worry.

But what tends to keep me from being consumed and neutered by it? See below...

*** 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.: This is where its' at. Seeking the Lord FIRST, and in ALL THINGS, at ALL TIMES. It is tough to do, as you have to Want it with a capital "W". This concept I use of "want" vs. "Want" can apply to so many things, but when it applies to our relationship with Christ, it can change everything. When I say I want something (lower-case "w"), oh sure, I may like the idea or concept of, say, seeking Him first and his righteousness, but I may only really do it in times of convenience, or only in times when I am at the end of my rope, or when it feels good, etc. But I won't move mountains in life to truly do it. To me, Wanting something (upper-cased "W") involves doing whatever it takes to achieve it. So, Wanting to seek Christ first, seek his perfect ways, etc., involved choices. Sacrifices. Probably looking foolish to some folks. And also in that? Not being a slave to worry! I mean, think about it: What so often keeps people claiming the name "Christian" stuck in just wanting to be true disciples as opposed to Wanting to be disciples? WORRY. Worrying about offending others around them. Worrying about possibly losing a job as a result. Worrying about losing the favor of a coach. Worrying about having to give up some fun sin. Worrying about being truly different in light of following Jesus. Worrying about losing some "freedom" in the quest for Freedom. Worrying that you may have to break off a relationship to truly follow Jesus (a non-married one, of course...).

So I think ultimately worry can play into how much we Want to surrender to Christ vs. if we just want to... And too often, we simply just don't Want to...

Questions for me today:

Where is my treasure? How do I see my true "heart" reflecting my treasure, priorities, wants, etc.?

Where am I letting worry consume me and hinder my walk with Christ?

Do I really Want to seek God in all things...or do I just want to? What would it look like in my life to switch to Wanting instead of just wanting?

What Do I Know? // James 4:13-17

Boasting About Tomorrow
13Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." 16As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.

Stuff that stood out:

*** Well, actually this whole section stuck out... In fact, my daily reading contained the first 6 verses of chapter 5 as well, but they just didn't seem to "fit" together today...maybe another time...

*** I will split my musings into two parts. The first is verses 13-15. I see so much of this in life. I make grand plans and don't a) ponder other paths and/or b) give room for God to "do his thing". It seems like James is telling us two things: First, that we often are waaaaay too flippant about our decisions, our plans, and our schemes. I mean, I may get broadsided by a truck while running tomorrow! I have no clue what may happen even in the next five minutes... Oh sure, I should just live my life as best I can, preferably as an act of worship and gratitude for Christ's undeserved love of my soul... Second, verse 15 tells us that in many ways it's all about our attitude as we approach life, decisions, etc. "If it's the Lord's will..." Notice the difference in focus there? It means we can still make decisions, but acknowledges (and is OK with...) that ultimately God is sovereign and in control, and thus he will do whatever he wills in our future for his glory alone. I may have hopes, goals, and dreams for what lies ahead for my family (trust me: I do), and sure, I need to be diligent in seeking wise possibilities, action plans, and decisions. BUT, I must do it all with a focused attitude and heart that says, "If what I kinda want to happen is in your will, ROCK ON, but if not? That's still the best way, YOUR way!"

*** The second musing is focused on verse 17: Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. I think I've mentioned this before, but when I am confused about God's will, I unfortunately tend to mean the "big, long-term decisions and direction for my life", instead of, "Hey God, what do I need to be a part of TODAY? What are the attitudes and actions that are also your will?" Verse 17 speaks to that for me. There are things I can do every day that are ALWAYS God's will. Treating others with respect. Making Christ first in my life. Loving my wife through thick and thin. Giving my best for Jesus. Listening to others. Repentance. Seeking to let the Word saturate my heart (and that means some tough decisions about behavior, attitude, etc.). And the one mentioned in this verse is so key: Knowing what is right, and still choosing to ignore it...

Questions for me today:

What dreams/goals/hopes, etc., in my life do I need to truly give over to the Lord (aka, so I would be "cool" with a different path of his choosing)?

What are some areas of my daily life that I can seek to be more in tune with who God wants me to be?

Re-Booted // 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2

The Ministry of Reconciliation
11Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
16So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21God made him who had no sin to be sin[a] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

2 Corinthians 6
1As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. 2For he says,
"In the time of my favor I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you."[b] I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.


Footnotes:
2 Corinthians 5:21 Or be a sin offering
2 Corinthians 6:2 Isaiah 49:8

Stuff that stood out:

*** 16So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!: What does this mean? What about times when I don't "feel" any different than the guy that existed before Christ became my Lord? These are questions every Christian needs to ponder often. Why? Well, this scripture tells/reminds us that if we have truly been claimed by Christ, then we will be different people on the inside. Oh sure, there are times when I just want to do my thing, don't "feel" like doing the difficult things that are part of being a disciple of Jesus, but I can look back and see the overall change of heart and attitude...to me, this is one of the evidences of my "re-boot" back in 1990...it just takes time (like, truthfully, ones' entire lifespan!). Things are so different now... But, the hard answer we may get to asking if we are truly new creations is when we realize that nothing on the inside has changed. Oh sure, for a new believer much may be the same save a new hope in ones' life due to their realization of salvation, but I know so many that when asked if they are any different now on a heart level then when they "said a salvation prayer", sadly they cannot find any real change...that should keep us awake at night...

*** 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.: Who re-boots us, reconciles us? GOD. No one else, nothing else. He has done what is necessary to bring us back into the fold despite the countless strikes against us due to sin. Shouldn't that realization be enough to result in the "new" talked about in v. 17? It should... Also, it should compel us to seek reconciliation with others around us, and quickly...because just like it's close cousin forgiveness, since God has offered us reconciliation, we need to be reconcilers as well out of gratitude...

*** 20We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.: What is an ambassador? When I think of that title, I think of people selected by a higher authority to represent their "true home" in a foreign land. This not only involves the sharing of the things of "home" with the folks in this foreign land, but also being a student of their culture as well, learning how to appreciate and "speak their language" (not just literally...). So, how am I an ambassador for Christ? I know many consider America a "Christian land", but sadly, I do not think it is, at least not anymore. Maybe where you live there is not a hostility to the true message of Jesus (even if the folks around you "take it for granted" and haven't truly wrestled with what it all means...), but I can assure you there are whole sections of this country that are quite hostile to Christianity for various valid and in-valid reasons...but the hostility exists nonetheless. So, as one reconciled to God, a rebooted person, I need to represent Jesus to "foreigners" in my own land. I need to learn the "language". I need to see what the customs are. Do I need to use this as an excuse to do things that may not be beneficial to my faith or Christ's message? No...but I do need to take a long look at how (and more importantly, if) I represent my Lord to those around me. Am I welcoming, or do I put up walls? Am I joyful and hopeful at ALL times (even in the midst of great strife), or do I easily become bitter? Do I try to learn about the culture around me, or do I avoid it altogether? Good questions for an ambassador to ponder...

All About Attitude: // Philippians 2:1-11

Imitating Christ's Humility
1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in very nature[a] God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature[b] of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.


Footnotes:Philippians 2:6 Or in the form of
Philippians 2:7 Or the form

Stuff that stood out:

*** 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.: Paul, you know you are talking about us silly humans here, right? You know, the ones that would rather have "their own way" on everything, always want to be "right", will talk behind someone's back like it's no biggie? Oh...you still want us to be unified? Ok...I guess we need to be praying like crazy!

In all seriousness, this challenge is so important to the expansion of Christ's message. We can say the "right things" all day long...but if all we do is quarrel and live in selfishness, well, we aren't going to get far, are we? I think one of the most important (and at times, difficult...) attitudes all followers of Jesus MUST seek is great humility. I may not always agree with someone...but is it my job to nit-pick, to tell them what I would do, and to freely go tell others how I think something should be done (when the "something" may have nothing to do with the ministry I've been called to, nothing to do with my gifts, etc.)? I think not...sadly, though, I have too often been "that guy"... I think most of us are guilty of this bad attitude. I have been praying so much lately that God would a) expose my heart to me when I start "going there" and b) that I wouldn't go there in the first place... While perfection hasn't been achieved, I have seen areas in my life improving in this... I don't want you to think I am some "raging gossip/slanderer/etc.", but I also know I am not immune to being just like some of the folks I can so easily complain about...

*** ...in humility consider others better than yourselves.; verse 3: There's that word again, humility. I think Paul's challenge to "consider others better than yourselves" is at the heart of humility. I may have wants, dreams, desires, thoughts, etc., but "me" should not be first. I think the best place (and sometimes the toughest place) to start practicing humility is in my own family. I need to lay down "me" for Missy and Jax, just because. Well, not "just because", but more specifically, because I am to model Christ's love for his Bride, the Church, to them...and, well, we all know what he went through on her/our behalf... The struggle for me is that sometimes I get caught in a bad-attitude of thinking, "Hey, I've been sacrificing alot lately! When is it my turn?!" Not what my attitude and priority should be...

*** 5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus...: And if all that above wasn't tough enough...there's this, haha! Really, though, this is what we should all pray for and earnestly seek: the attitude and heart of Christ in ALL THINGS. Not easy...and it doesn't mean we "get points" and get always tangibly "blessed" in return...but that isn't the point. Is doing the Lord's work truly a priority? Then we need the attitude of Jesus all over us...

Questions for me today:

Are there any relationships I need to seek reconciliation and forgiveness in, so that God's purpose can be more plainly achieved?

Where can I be more humble, especially those areas where I feel entitled to lack humility?

Getting Away // Mark 1:29-39

Jesus Heals Many
29As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her. 31So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.
32That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33The whole town gathered at the door, 34and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.

Jesus Prays in a Solitary Place
35Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37and when they found him, they exclaimed: "Everyone is looking for you!"
38Jesus replied, "Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come." 39So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

Stuff that stood out:

*** He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.; verse 34: It's kinda funny that my morning reading asked me to include verses 29-34, as the "point", apparently, of the reading was to talk about prayer. I think one reason I was asked to read this part was to show that in the midst of all the "stuff" Jesus was asked to do, he still got away from it all... But this specific verse was interesting as a bit of a detour from that theme. Throughout the accounts of Jesus, there are examples of him doing/saying something amazing, and then telling the folks impacted to "shush", so to speak. I've always wondered, "Why?" Was it reverse psychology, knowing that we humans tend to NOT do what we're told (aka, when told, "keep quiet about me", we instead run off and tell everyone...you are clever, Jesus!)? I think it actually may be some of that. But the demons here (and elsewhere)? Why keep them quiet? Maybe so that his "revealing" wasn't so blatant yet? I dunno...It has just always been an interesting thing to me I suppose...

*** 35Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.: Here is what stuck out most on a personal, spiritual challenge level to me. You see, I have always struggled with prayer. Why, how, all that. Lately I have been "cool" with the great mystery of prayer and the call to do it obediently, but it still can make me wonder. Can one change God's mind with our requests? I say scripture says "no"...and when there are "examples" of it (usually in the Old Testament), I think God already had stuff in motion, he just "changed his mind" to let folks know he was listening, cared, had a plan, etc. So, I don't buy into what is called "Open Theism": essentially, that God's plan isn't all laid out yet, that we can have influence on his decisions, etc. Problem is, for so long we've been modeled prayer as almost begging God to do what we want him to... Sometimes it is for reasons as noble as healing, etc., but too often it is something petty like, "Make us to win our game tonight." Not sure God thinks it matters if your team wins...maybe, "God help us to keep our hearts and attitudes focused on you tonight in this game so that we play our hardest as an act of worship to you and as a witness to your glory."? There are examples of asking for needs in scripture, so part of the mystery is that, but it also seems those requests are sprinkled with an ultimate request for God's will to be done...

But what is the purpose of prayer, then, if it needs to be much more than just asking for what we want? I think prayer is listening to God, and at times, the words we speak are for US. We are told that the Spirit speaks (and groans)for us when we are in prayer...just what if when we "say things" to God, that is the Spirit reminding us of Truth? Of what we need to hear and remember that day? I often catch myself praying for things, asking God to give me strength, or courage, or eyes to see where he's at work where I may join in, etc., and what happens? Just by saying those things, I'm more likely to remember them that day. I think that is part of God's way to answer prayer. For example, this morning I prayed for strength, wisdom, and clarity about a situation today, knowing that God can do all that in me. And while I did feel strength at that time that I fully attribute to the Holy Spirit comforting my heart, you know how I also know God is answering that prayer? Because I am remembering what I prayed about this morning. My attitude is closer to God because I have been able to be reminded that God is granting me courage. Wisdom. Clarity. And it results in a sense of peace. Could that be what much of prayer is? The goal of peace and trust in our hearts in ALL things?

Questions for me today:

Why don't I seek to get away with God more? What am I afraid of? Is it silence? Is it really hearing God (and maybe not liking it)?

Is one aspect of prayer to just be reminded of what I prayed for, and thus walk on in faith?

Holistic Worship...but With Humility // Romans 12:1-8

Living Sacrifices
1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual[a] act of worship. 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
3For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his[b]faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.


Footnotes:
Romans 12:1 Or reasonable
Romans 12:6 Or in agreement with the

Stuff that stood out:

*** 1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual[a] act of worship.: When I hear the word "worship", I confess that all-too-often I think of singing praise songs/hymns, or at most adding to those songs things like prayer, offerings, and hearing a sermon/message at a specific time once a week ("worship service"). Those things are (and absolutely should be) ways we worship the Lord. But when I encounter this verse, I start realizing that my worship of the Savior should go WAY beyond singing or hanging out in a church for an hour-ish once a week. In fact, when asked what are some verses that drive me, I must admit that this is one of the "biggies". I certainly don't live up to it, more times than I care to admit. However, I remember the first time I truly engaged this verse (aka, "not just hearing/reading it passively and moving on with my day"), it was life-shaking for me...I started realizing that things as mundane as how I stand in line at Taco Bell can be an act of worship...how I drive (and treat other drivers) can be an act of worship. EVERYTHING needs to be an act of worship...

*** 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.: I think this is key to beginning to achieve the goals in verse 1. Faith is not only at "heart-thing", it also needs to be a mind-thing. Sure, it starts in the heart, but then we must seek to allow it to spread all over, especially our attitudes and approaches toward life. I consider that often a mind-thing. As I look at my own life, it's the times when I choose to actively seek Christ through daily prayer and meditation, through active reading of the scriptures (which means more than just reading it...it means asking God to reveal Truth...and engaging it often during the course of the day...in fact, this blog is usually one way I "engage" and revisit the scriptures I've been reading...) where I start sensing and being more open to God's direction in my life. I hear so many folks wondering how they can "tell what God wants them to do". The answer? The "church answer": READ, PRAY, LIVE... Problem is that we have to choose those things...even when we aren't "feeling it"...

*** 3For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought... (emphasis mine): I will confess, though...one sad "byproduct" (if you will) to when I am feeling "close to God" is an arrogance toward others who just don't seem to be getting it... Often it comes out as a frustration more than anything. Oh sure, a passion for others to surrender to and know Christ fully is a good thing, and needs to be worn on my sleeve, but great care and humility has to be sought in the process. I know I myself have had a bad "taste" in my mouth at times when I am around arrogant believers (or, what I perceive as a spiritual arrogance...), but I can be that guy too if not careful...

Questions for me today:

What parts of my life am I not treating as worship? Am I too "compartmentalized"?

What attitudes and "mind-renewal" areas do I need today?

How can I humbly be passionate about faith (and faith in others) without being arrogant or a jerk?

I'll Be There in a Sec, Jesus... // Luke 14:15-24

The Parable of the Great Banquet
15When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, "Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God."
16Jesus replied: "A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, 'Come, for everything is now ready.'

18"But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, 'I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.'

19"Another said, 'I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.'

20"Still another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.'

21"The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.'

22" 'Sir,' the servant said, 'what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.'

23"Then the master told his servant, 'Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full. 24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.' "

Stuff that stood out:

*** 18"But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, 'I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.'

19"Another said, 'I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.'

20"Still another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.': Excuses, excuses. I am the king of them. Spiritually speaking, this is something that gets us in so much trouble, and I think in our American/"civilized" society, it is all the harder. We have so many "important" things pulling at us, so many lists that need to be completed, so much criteria that must be met before we will surrender to Jesus and follow him. I think this keeps so many of us from truly being a disciple. We have had a "surface" taste of God, and we like the concept of having him in our lives, but we let stuff get in the way. Business. Worry. Fear. Sports. Relationships. Grades. Insecurities. Addiction. You name it. These are all things I need to remember, but the next few verses are what "hit me" is what really should freak me out...

*** Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.'; verse 21: Now, I certainly don't have anything against the crippled, blind, or 'lame', and it's awesome to know that Jesus cares deeply about them. But this response was given as the ones who are "too busy", distracted, etc., allowed their priorities to put off Jesus...and what does Jesus say? "Oh, it's ok...I'll be around, no worries." Oh wait, that's not what he said...

*** 24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.': Ouch. That freaks me out. How many times have I put off the Lord so I could just do what I felt like doing, or convinced myself I was too busy to truly follow? Too many times to count, if I'm honest. That ain't good. But where this should scare more folks claiming the name Christian is that Jesus doesn't say stuff like, "Oh, it's ok...just let me know when you're ready,", he basically doesn't let them in at all. That doesn't sound like the welcoming Jesus I'm used to hearing about. But it does make me think about other similar examples that are pretty tough...like the rich guy who is asked to get rid of all possessions...and he can't. Or even the concept of idolatry. Simply put, if we really are followers of Jesus, then we should be wanting to not miss him. I am so grateful to God's grace and forgiveness in my failings, my inattention, etc., but verses like this should wake me (and others) up...

Questions for me today:

Am I making some excuses right now that are keeping me from following Jesus?

"If You Walk Away (walk away), I'll Walk Away (walk away)...I Will Follow" // Luke 14:25-35

The Cost of Being a Disciple
25Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26"If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. 27And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
28"Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? 29For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, 30saying, 'This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.'

31"Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Will he not first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. 33In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple.

34"Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? 35It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out.
"He who has ears to hear, let him hear."

Stuff that stood out: I think this set of verses is one of the hardest truths for me to hear. Why? Well, I'll get into it more as I break down some verses...but if I call myself a Christian, Follower of Jesus, Believer, etc., this passage is one I must hear and "digest"... And yes, the "title" I gave this posting is an old U2 song...been listening to them alot lately in anticipation of their new album :-), but I think the lyric applies here (and it's all that was going through my head as I pondered what to call this post...).

*** 26"If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. 27And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.: Wow. There it is. Jesus really "went there". He threw it all out there for us to see when it comes to how strong our surrender to Him must be. Jesus talks elsewhere about other things that "get in the way" of following Him, and while they are also hard (money, possessions, power, etc.), at least they are material in some fashion. But family? Friends? My own life? Oh boy... I even catch myself qualifying this list here into "rankings" of sorts. I can see possibly having to give up ones' own family-of-origin for the sake of Jesus (think, "I am a Christian now...and I can't live to please you or meet your 'dreams' for me anymore..." Someone very close to me has had to make decisions like this...). I can even see giving up my physical life for the Lord (although I realize it would be immeasurably tough to not "sell out" just to save my skin...). I think the one that would honestly be toughest for me is giving up my wife and child. What on earth does this look like? Thankfully, my family (wife/kid) are on my side as far as following Christ...but what if one day I sense God calling me/us in a certain direction...and my wife says, "Uh-uh...no way...you go do that, you might as well just keep on walkin'"? Isn't my family my primary ministry? Aren't I supposed to sacrifice all things on their behalf just like Jesus does for the Church? I know God hates and detests divorce, so if one day it's either Jesus or my family...do I just walk away and "ditch" them (and I do know people who have "divorced in the name of Jesus"...and I catch myself judging them...forgive me, Lord...?)? As I said, this is a hard couple verses...but if nothing else, it says that following Christ must truly be FIRST to a Christian. Not pleasing family, friends, others; not just trying to save my own skin and getting what I want.

*** 29For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him...: I also have seen this problem in my life before and thankfully the older I get I seem to get better at a) completing things and b) discerning what never needs to be "started" or promised in the first place. But I also think this speaks to those who gleefully start following Jesus in a sprint (often based on an emotion-driven "conversion experience", or being "saved" based on promises that God will "fix all my problems"...), but as the reality that yes, bad stuff will still happen to you even if you are saved, or that once you get farther from the "rah rah" environment where you were caught up in the moment and said, "Yes, Lord!", I think it is easy to stop following... I'm not trying to sound harsh (Jesus does plenty of that in this passage, haha), and I do truly affirm that Christ does save in circumstances like this. I just hope that if one's experience with meeting Jesus was emotionally-driven, at some point they hit a crossroads and say, "Ok...so I didn't realize it would be so hard..." or "Hang on, I prayed a prayer! How come I still struggle? How come my mom got sick? I thought all of that was gone!?", and will see the truth of Jesus' saving of our dark souls instead of just what "felt good" at the time or that we were saved because we were shown Jesus as some sort-of therapist that would make us "live like a champion" (heehee). Does Christ reconcile all things? YES. But on his terms, in his way...and we, unfortunately, look for it on OUR terms...and can get confused and disappointed when things are tough. Oh Lord, give me/us the strength to realize that simply the act of paying for our Sin on the cross was ENOUGH for us to fall on our face, to run to you (and from ourselves), and follow no matter what!

Questions for me today:

What "dynamic" listed here would be the toughest for me to walk away from in the name of following Jesus?

Am I a "finisher" of the things of God, or a "quitter"?

Word Up // Luke 16:19-31

The Rich Man and Lazarus
19"There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.
22"The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23In hell,[a] where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. 24So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.'

25"But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. 26And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.'

27"He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, 28for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.'

29"Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.'

30" 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.'

31"He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' "


Footnotes:
Luke 16:23 Greek Hades

Stuff that stood out:

Basically, there is a trio of verses at the end of this passage that really "hit" me. I don't mean to diminish the rest of the passage, but much of it, to me, boils down to one of the roles of the Word of God: to show God to others...

*** 29"Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.'

30" 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.'

31"He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' ": So you have a guy here, who is like many of us, that has lived a life of plenty, of provision, etc., but is dismayed to discover that ultimately his soul was dark...and he is judged accordingly. He realizes the Truth he missed for so long, and starts bartering with Abraham to let his family and friends know what he now realizes, even in his current state apart from God. Abe says something like, "Well, they have God's Word, and if they've explored that, they should have everything they need for belief." The rich guy says, "Not enough...maybe if we throw some ghosts or magic at them they'll be convinced."

Problem is, Abraham says, "Nope...the Word is sufficient. If they've been truly exposed to it and its' message, they have all they need."

We struggle with that so often. Needing more tangible "proof" (although I'm sure seeing supernatural stuff, etc., would instead be seen as just hallucinations, etc., and thus little heart change occurs). I often think back to the time of Christ and wonder, "How on earth could all those people see the miraculous wonders Jesus performed but still not truly believe!?" Sadly, though, I think the same thing happens today. Sure, there may not be all the overt miracles, but the attitude of, "Show me something real, and then I'll ponder believing", is rampant. And I do sympathize, as I realize that only God himself could have opened my heart to his Truth, so it's "easier" I suppose for me to believe scripture, etc. But I also know of the power of God's Word ALONE to be used by the Holy Spirit to completely change some one's heart. I have several friends that were converted simply from reading scripture and being convicted of the Truth within. And as one who knows he has been saved by grace, I need to take the contents and message of scripture most seriously, even when I get confused, or even say stuff like, "That's expecting too much, God!", "How on earth could that be real", etc.

Therefore, none of us is "off the hook" once we've been confronted with the Truth of God's Word...

Questions for me today:

In what ways do I still seem to need "tangible proof" in my faith?

Do I view scripture as God's ultimate authority and current revelation to us? Is it enough for me, even if I never saw God's hand in my life again?

What do I tell others that aren't following Christ, but say, "I might if I had better proof"?

God's Criteria > Our Criteria // Acts 9:1-19

Saul's Conversion
1Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"
5"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked.

"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6"Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."

7The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.

10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!"
"Yes, Lord," he answered.

11The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight."

13"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. 14And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."

15But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. 16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."

17Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19and after taking some food, he regained his strength.

Stuff that stood out:

*** 13"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. 14And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."

15But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name...: While usually this passage is one of conversion (specifically "Saul" to "Paul", once Jesus calls him), this time the banter between Ananais and God is what hit me. Ananais hears the Lord speaking, but it isn't what he would expect. God is calling him to do something that simply doesn't fit into Ananais' criteria. What is hard here is that who would fault Ananais' concerns? I mean, let's look at the criteria for him being a bit concerned with God asking him to go visit Saul/Paul: Saul a known hater of Christ-followers? Check. Saul has the authority to hunt down these followers, so it isn't just him going alone? Check. The early believers are likely hearing stories of being punished, tortured, even killed for their faith? Check. I'm sure the list could go on, but these are good. So, Ananais is kinda making sure God "knows" that what he is asking doesn't make much sense (to Ananais). I can relate. There are times (I'm even wondering if there are some things going on now in my life that would qualify) where God calls us to something, but it doesn't line up with our criteria. Maybe great risk is involved. Maybe it involves something (or...someone...) we just really, REALLY don't like. Maybe it would remove some of that thing we all seek too well: security. Or I suppose it could even involve our life itself. Who knows. I also no that if Ananais would have said no, however...well, would Paul have been the man we know today? I'm sure God could have found another way to have his plan implemented, but what things am I "dilly-dallying" with today, almost bargaining with God, looking only to the criteria I have decided on? I need to look to Ananais' example of trust, confidence, and ultimate faithfulness in following God's plan for him, regardless of the criteria he may have had, or even what others (with "good" intentions, possibly) may have told him if he had sought their counsel.

Questions for me today:

What things in my life, where God may be calling me, am I dragging my feet due to excuses?

If I need to release "my" criteria...what is God's criteria, then?

Getting Out of God's Way...and Then Getting Right Back in the Middle of It // Matthew 16:13-28

Peter's Confession of Christ
13Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?"
14And they said, "Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets."

15He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"

16Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

17And Jesus said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.

18"I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.

19"I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven."

20Then He warned the disciples that they should tell no one that He was the Christ.

Jesus Foretells His Death
21From that time Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised up on the third day.
22Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, "God forbid it, Lord! This shall never happen to You."

23But He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's."

Discipleship Is Costly
24Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.
25"For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

26"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

27"For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and WILL THEN REPAY EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS.

28"Truly I say to you, there are some of those who are standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom."

Words, phrases that stuck out:

*** 17And Jesus said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.: Just yet another example I see of any revelation of God coming from God himself, not by any person "convincing" me of it. Sure, others may be used by God to that end...but it was God doing it. Carry on...

*** 23But He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's.": I have often been perplexed by this passage over the years. But once I started really looking at it, I saw one thing shining through: Peter, while simply trying to protect his friend and leader, was letting his wants get in the way of what God had planned. I know this desire all too well, and I think Peter even had some noble motives here. There have surely been times in my life where I was seeking "noble things"...but they still weren't what God wanted. They may not have been sinful, or hurting others, but they still flew in the face of what God's will was. Now, Peter likely didn't understand God's design here, and surely in many of the similar times in my life, I didn't either, at least at first. But often we start sensing God's direction...and we wait. Or we complain. Or we just flat-out say "NO!" My prayer needs to be one of having ears to hear where God is leading me...and then the courage and trust to move in that direction. I need to get out of God's way...

*** 24Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.
25"For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.:...and then, as I get out of God's way, I need to get right back in it. More specifically, I need to say, "Ok, God...I am surrendering to YOUR plans...so let's go, warts and all..." This, just like getting out of the way, is very tough because the concept of taking up a cross (think Jesus here...sacrifice...pain..."not my will but yours") just doesn't make us go "yay!" very often. And losing life...to find life? Say what, God? Aren't you supposed to make all things better? Make life easier and more fun? Well...no. And sadly, I know many who "became Christians" under the pretense that God would magically fix all bad situations, would heal everyone, and would make life a cake walk. Not so. If that's why I call myself a "Christian"...then I'm not so sure I am. But if I realize (due to the Holy Spirit's revelation to me) that I am naturally against God, and that only through Christ's sacrificial atonement on the Cross am I welcomed into eternity with the Lord, then it should result in my complete humility, allegiance, and surrender to Christ. And that should look like being willing to suffer for my Lord. Being willing to put my wants and desires on the back burner (and maybe even in the trash) for the sake of Jesus. Yeah, that knowledge doesn't make tons of folks (in their own understanding) run to Christ in droves. But, when God shows someone their fallen, anti-God state, lets them realize that they then deserve eternal death...but that through Christ the penalty has been paid, then it should result in a compelling motivation to take up the cross, to "lose" one's life for Christ's sake...

Questions for me today:

What are/have been some things in my life that "weren't bad"...but are/were not what God wants/wanted?

What does "taking up my cross" look like for me? In what ways do I "lose" my life for Jesus' sake?

Do I truly realize that by losing my life (wants, desires, plans), I am in fact gaining life?

The Evidence // Luke 19:1-10

Zaccheus Converted
1He (A)entered Jericho and was passing through.
2And there was a man called by the name of Zaccheus; he was a chief tax collector and he was rich.

3Zaccheus was trying to see who Jesus was, and was unable because of the crowd, for he was small in stature.

4So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a (B)sycamore tree in order to see Him, for He was about to pass through that way.

5When Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, "Zaccheus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house."

6And he hurried and came down and received Him gladly.

7When they saw it, they all began to grumble, saying, "He has gone to be the guest of a man who is a sinner."

8Zaccheus stopped and said to (C)the Lord, "Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to the poor, and if I have (D)defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back (E)four times as much."

9And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he, too, is (F)a son of Abraham.

10"For (G)the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."

Cross references:
Luke 19:1 : Luke 18:35
Luke 19:4 : 1 Kin 10:27; 1 Chr 27:28; 2 Chr 1:15; 9:27; Ps 78:47; Is 9:10; Luke 17:6
Luke 19:8 : Luke 7:13
Luke 19:8 : Luke 3:14
Luke 19:8 : Ex 22:1; Lev 6:5; Num 5:7; 2 Sam 12:6
Luke 19:9 : Luke 3:8; 13:16; Rom 4:16; Gal 3:7
Luke 19:10 : Matt 18:11

Words, phrases that stuck out:

*** 7When they saw it, they all began to grumble, saying, "He has gone to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.": Our ways are not God's ways. Likewise, our criteria is not (usually) God's criteria. Here is an example of that, and before I start thinking these are horrible, judgemental folks, I have to realize there are many times I approach others the same way. Just last week, I was leading a discussion of junior high students on how the Church is to be different in how we treat each other as friends than any other group out there. Yet, I asked, "Do we?" I'm not sure we do. I know there have been teens that come in our group for the first time who have a reputation at school, and some in our group don't think they are worthy to be there. "What is that guy/girl doing here?", has been muttered to me more than once. While I hope there is gladness at the opportunity to minister to that person...my guess is the real answer is usually more like, "I don't want them here. They are scum." And I don't want to just rip on the kids here...I know I can be that way, too, if not very careful and if I am too quick to forget a passage like this one.

*** 8Zaccheus stopped and said to (C)the Lord, "Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to the poor, and if I have (D)defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back (E)four times as much."

9And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house...: Is this proclamation how Zaccheus was saved? No. Is it evidence that he has come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior? I think so. I know it is a dicey proposition that, if not taken with great care, can delve into judging "who is 'in' and who is 'out'", but what Zacc just proclaimed here is evidence that he has been changed on the inside by Christ. It is "fruit", if you will. And i need to ask myself very often, "Am I bearing any fruit due to my being saved by Jesus? Am I compelled (without much thought) to do selfless acts of love for him? Is there an impact being made for the Lord?" Those are tough to ask oneself at times, because we may not like the answer. The hardest (but maybe one of the most necessary) questions I often ask teens are the ones that may result in some of them realizing they don't truly know Jesus...by asking them to look for fruit in their lives (evidence of a changed heart), to ask if they still let sin/selfishness drive their decisions/attitudes/actions, or asking if there is anything "different" about their core being...but it must be done...

*** 10"For (G)the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost." Myself and surely others often ask, "Why did Jesus come?" There are many reasons, but I think so much of his purpose is summed up in verse 10 here. Not just to be a "nice example". Not to overthrow the Romans (literally). And not just to do some cool supernatural, miraculous stuff "just because". He came to seek out and save. Oh sure, lots of cool things were done by Jesus, but I think the goal was seeking and saving, and those "things" were often a tool to that end. I think we need to pay attention to that. I know my own personal ministry journey has come around to a point where I think "service" and "gospel" need to go hand-in-hand. I'm not sure we need to go out blaring the message of Christ to those with great need without being willing to serve their needs selflessly as well...and on the flip side, I am coming to realize that while serving others is "nice", that the message and motivation of the Gospel needs to permeate that serving. I'm not saying we only serve those IF they will here a "gospel presentation" first...but the truth of Jesus must permeate what we do (and why). I know I've been on many service opportunities through ministries where there is little "broadcast" as to what we represent, but I am starting to think that we need to broadcast Christ better...not necessarily in a preachy way, but in a "this is real to ME and why I am doing this"-way...

Questions for me today:

How do I treat "sinners" in my midst?

Is there evidence of Jesus saving me IN me (and flowing out of me)?

As I represent and minister in the name of Jesus...what "name" of Jesus is what I serve under? Meeting needs? Saving souls? Being nice?

Real vs. Just Lip-Service // 1 John 5

Faith in the Son of God
1Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. 2This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. 3This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. 5Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
6This is the one who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. 7For there are three that testify: 8the[a] Spirit, the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement. 9We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son. 10Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. 11And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

Concluding Remarks 13I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. 14This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.
16If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, he should pray and God will give him life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that he should pray about that. 17All wrongdoing is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death.

18We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him. 19We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. 20We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true—even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.

21Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.

Footnotes:

1 John 5:8 Late manuscripts of the Vulgate testify in heaven: the Father, the Word and the Holy Spirit, and these three are one. 8 And there are three that testify on earth: the (not found in any Greek manuscript before the sixteenth century)

Words, Phrases that Stuck Out:

*** ...everyone who loves the father loves his child as well.; verse 1: I think it's easier to just love some abstract "god" than to let that love go to this Jesus character as well. Asking one to believe that while, yes, there is a God, a creator, a "force" out there that cares and is watching over us is a nice thing that most folks would agree on. But one that is deeply involved with his creation? One that seeks us personally? One that humbled himself enough to have a "son" that was essentially God walking around with us mere mortals? That is tougher. Too, "Huh?" for many, and at times I can't wrap my mind around it, either...but I know it's true.

*** 3This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4for everyone born of God overcomes the world.: I think that following God's commands is something that is (or should be) a byproduct of God saving me. Not the "means" to salvation...well, some think that God's Law could be a means...if any human could actually attain it...and we cannot, so it becomes a means to expose our failings, our unworthiness, our fallen souls that are against God. Therefore, seeking God's ways and commands should flow from the believer saved by Christ alone. But outsiders look at these commands as a drag. As "no fun". I used to agree, and sure there are even seasons of my life as a follower of Jesus where I can get a case of the "I don't wanna's". But I think the evidence of Christ's hold of me comes when I realize that God's ways are best, and that when I am surrendered to the Lord, the desire to follow his wishes and actually do his wishes just sort of flows... I know my faith is not just lip-service at this point. Of course, the elephant in the room right now is that I unfortunately think there are tons of folks who would quickly label themselves as Christian when asked, but don't have a desire to follow God's commands. They are seen as a burden, as holding back what they want. So I ask: is that person's faith real? Scary question...but one I need to ask myself honestly if I catch myself looking at God's way and go, "yeah, whatever". Thankfully, God's peace in my heart and my being "unsatisfied" when I can tell I'm not in God's will are some examples of my eternal security in Christ, that I have been saved. But, do you ask those questions? Maybe we should more often...

*** 10Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart... 11And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.: If I am truly saved by Jesus, then this is the message written on my heart that drives me in ALL things. I have been given a life that never ends through the Cross. And when I remember how I was AGAINST God for so long before, and that he still went through all that on my/our behalf...it humbles me. It breaks me. Still. And it should! I pray that my life is somehow a reflection of that gift of grace...

*** 21Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.: After all that exposition, all the reminding of the Truths we need to realize and live out, it is almost like John said to God, "Ok, Lord...just one more 'nugget'. What do you want me to wrap up this letter with that will really 'drive it home'?" God said, "Hit 'em with idolatry..." Why? Because it is my/our worship and allegiance to things that aren't of God that stunts all of the "above" stuff in this chapter. When I give into my wants, I am not seeking the Lord. When my priority is money, I am not seeking the Lord. When I just want folks to like me, and am willing to do/say anything to get that goal, I am not seeking the Lord. If I seek to let Christ flow through me, I need to be confronted with (and repent from) those things that become "first" in my life. Sometimes it is obvious stuff (like the aforementioned money, or worry, or just wanting to be cool), but I need to ask God to expose the deeper stuff...the less-obvious stuff...the stuff that others may even look at and go, "What's wrong with that?" Stuff like when I make Missy or Jax my "god". Like when I do all I can to avoid others/help others when I just want to sit on my rear and do nothing (when I've already done plenty of that recently). Like when I set something in motion that is what I want to do, and I throw some "God" in front of it to make it sound spiritual...when I'm not even sure if it's what God wants... Yeah, those are the more humbling questions I must be willing to ask and face the music with...

Questions for me today:

What is the evidence in my life that proves that Christ has saved me?

What if I can't find any?

What idols are at play that take priority over Christ in my life? What needs to change?

Doubting (Insert Your Name Here) // John 20:24-31

Jesus Appears to Thomas
24Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!"
But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."
26A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 27Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."

28Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"

29Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

30Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31But these are written that you may[a] believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

Footnotes:

John 20:31 Some manuscripts may continue to

Words, phrases that stuck out:

*** "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."; verse 25: Oh Thomas... How many times have I seen this story and been so disappointed in you? I mean, you WALKED with Jesus in the flesh! Saw the miracles! Heard the teachings and prophecies! What was wrong with you?

Problem is that I have experienced the Lord in many real, tangible ways (maybe not as "real" as Thomas did...but I still was certain of its' reality), knowing that God was present, or speaking to to me, etc., but later on I doubt the reality of it all. I let culture's cynical, over-analytical spirit get to me. I become like Thomas, needing "concrete proof" of all this crazy, mysterious supernatural stuff.

*** 27Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.": Jesus, despite our doubt, offers his reality. I think he still can do this in my current situation, but one think I must realize is that he's shown my a ton of times already. I know the last sentence in verse 27 can look a bit "strong", but I have to be able to look back at the times I knew with certainty that Jesus was who he said he is, that God is real, is speaking, has a plan, etc. Thus, I think Jesus has every right to say it to me. When I waver, doubt all this, etc. (usually due to external circumstances that aren't going my way), I need to remember that night in 1990 when I knew that what Jeff Chandler was preaching about my sin, Christ's sacrifice, and my eternity was true; I need to remember that closing night at camp in 1995 where I heard God clearly telling me to walk up in front of hundreds of people proclaiming he had called me to a life of ministry; I must remember finally having a sense of peace about my "lack of a significant other"...even if it was to be as long as I lived...and then meeting Missy and knowing she was to be my bride (and yes, I think that was a God thing); I need to never forget the night in 2002 when I believe something demonic was going on in my apartment...and how once I prayed for Jesus to "kick it out of here"...everything changed about that situation... Weird stuff, and I know many just haven't had those experiences...but they are signposts to me, proofs to me, "Come put your hand in my side"-moments that I must remember when I waver...

*** 29Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.": I think Jesus is telling me that he realizes how tough it is to "believe" when I physically have not seen Jesus himself...but then again, have I? I mean, when have others in my life "been Jesus"?

Also, I can't help but see this as yet another example that salvation is ALL God's doing in us, not our minds being convinced with the "right" criteria or a math equation. I know that until God showed me the Truth...well, I just simply didn't know.

*** 31But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.: John is talking about the "signs" that were written on our behalf. I didn't live 2,000+ years ago, but that doesn't mean I can't see Christ. In addition to those things I listed above I needed to remember as reminders of Christ, I can always look to scripture. And then scripture, realized and written on my heart, makes it easier to see where Christ is at work in me and around me...you can see the "cycle", huh? This is why the "church answer" of studying scripture for one's own spiritual growth is the RIGHT answer...

Questions for me today:

What is usually the cause of my doubt and wavering faith? Are there some common threads I need to be more aware of?

When I struggle with faith, what things seem to help "bring me back"?

Dead or Alive? // Ephesians 2:1-10

Made Alive in Christ
1As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature[a] and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. 4But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Footnotes:

Ephesians 2:3 Or our flesh

Words, phrases that stuck out:

*** 3All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature[a] and following its desires and thoughts.: What is "them" here? Our transgressions and sins that every single one of us either has been driven by (or still IS being driven by) in life. As much as I've tended to be viewed as a "good guy" (whatever that means...), I know that before I was captured by Christ, despite my efforts to be "more good than bad" (aka hoping God used a gold star chart), ultimately it was easier to do the dumb, brainless, wrong things than the right thing. And I also know there have been times in my regenerated life after surrendering to Jesus where I was a slave to sin for a time, being driven be desires to "feel good" instead of a reckless abandon for God. The struggle is when we fail to realize this truth, as no matter how much I say I "get" this fact of being a slave to sin in my past life (and annoyingly at times in the current), I still catch myself comparing "up" with others on some sort of naughty list.

*** 4But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions...: This is just a revolutionary truth that is so foreign to us: that God, despite our deadness to him (due to our transgressions against him all the time), has so much love and mercy on us that he wants us alive again in Christ. Those last two words are the kicker, though, and we seem to miss that. We aren't alive because we follow some philosophy, or due to gritting our teeth trying to be "good". No, we are alive to God due to the payment of sin by Jesus' death on the cross. I need to grasp that more and more each day, and that is my prayer. And by that surrender, I believe that God will continue (because it started in 1990) to change my heart and attitude so that all the "good things" I try in my own power to do (usually with some hopeless notion that God will like me more as a result) will instead flow from me freely and effortlessly as I simply love the Lord more and more and...

*** 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
: Here. It. Is. Our life in God's kingdom is a gift. It is not from what we do. And since it isn't from my own energies and attempts, I have ZERO room for arrogance, or feeling like I am somehow "better" than those not knowing Jesus, or that I am more spiritual than others because I seek to live for Christ. That's tough though. I know I can get frustrated when folks around me aren't "getting it" like I'd like, and I need to just be obedient and faithful (and let God do the rest in others). But I know this realization that it isn't completing some checklist that "gets us to God" (and the relief and gratitude that should result from that) doesn't always produce fruit. Why? I think it's because sometimes we still don't really "get it". We got all emotional and said some prayer somewhere, and think that now we have eternal life with God in our back pocket "just in case" or something. As I've said before, if anything "good" comes out of my life, I pray it is a directresult of my love, gratitude, and obedience to ALL God has done for me. I was created to do good works FOR CHRIST. Oh Lord, flow through me...and let any "good" point directly to YOU.

Questions for me to ponder today:

Do I truly, truly know that before I surrendered to Jesus I was ruled by sin, evil, etc.? What should that realization do to me? If I don't seem to realize that...what evidence do I need to "get there"?

Are my "good works" just for myself, or to "look good" to others? Are they only flowing from my love for God?