Jacob and Esau
19 This is the account of Abraham's son Isaac.
Abraham became the father of Isaac, 20 and Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan Aram [a] and sister of Laban the Aramean.
21 Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. The LORD answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant. 22 The babies jostled each other within her, and she said, "Why is this happening to me?" So she went to inquire of the LORD.
23 The LORD said to her,
"Two nations are in your womb,
and two peoples from within you will be separated;
one people will be stronger than the other,
and the older will serve the younger."
24 When the time came for her to give birth, there were twin boys in her womb. 25 The first to come out was red, and his whole body was like a hairy garment; so they named him Esau. [b] 26 After this, his brother came out, with his hand grasping Esau's heel; so he was named Jacob. [c] Isaac was sixty years old when Rebekah gave birth to them.
27 The boys grew up, and Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country, while Jacob was a quiet man, staying among the tents. 28 Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.
29 Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. 30 He said to Jacob, "Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished!" (That is why he was also called Edom. [d] )
31 Jacob replied, "First sell me your birthright."
32 "Look, I am about to die," Esau said. "What good is the birthright to me?"
33 But Jacob said, "Swear to me first." So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob.
34 Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left.
So Esau despised his birthright.
Footnotes:
Genesis 25:20 That is, Northwest Mesopotamia
Genesis 25:25 Esau may mean hairy ; he was also called Edom, which means red.
Genesis 25:26 Jacob means he grasps the heel (figuratively, he deceives ).
Genesis 25:30 Edom means red .
Words, phrases that stuck out:
*** Mainly, the various uses of "birthright" (specifically, verses 31, 32, and 34): Here is a definition of "birthright" I found on dictionary.com: Birth"right`\, n. Any right, privilege, or possession to which a person is entitled by birth, such as an estate descendible by law to an heir, or civil liberty under a free constitution; esp. the rights or inheritance of the first born.
Lest there be any . . . profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. --Heb. xii. 16.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, © 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.
Interesting that this dictionary chose the example from Genesis to show the usage, huh? Anyway, as I read this morning, all I wanted to do was learn more about this concept of birthright. And, more specifically, why it is such a big deal that Jacob was manipulating things surrounding Esau's birthright (so Jacob could have it instead), and why Esau was so willing to give it away... And, what is the spiritual implication? Do I have a birthright? Do I want a birthright? If I have/had one, what would cause me to give it away so freely? Ultimately, I don't really know...but I have a feeling that our birthright is as God's children...and how easily we squander it away. How we will just ditch Jesus for the promise of one minute of fun. Stuff like that... I really don't have anything else to add but this question: What does "birthright" mean to you in reference to our life with Christ?
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
How We Speak to- and Treat Each Other... // Ephesians 4:17-32
200th post, by the way...wow.
Living as Children of Light
17So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.
20You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin"[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. 28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Footnotes:
Ephesians 4:26 Psalm 4:4
Words, phrases that stuck out to me:
*** ...due to the hardening of their hearts.; verse 18: I often wonder, "How did _____ become so bitter? So angry? So uncaring? So 'meh'?" Paul lets us know that those who may be identified with these adjectives (and at times, myself), it's our heart, our soul, that has been hardened. Some areas of scripture say that God, at times, "allows" for the hardening of our hearts to get a point across (not sure that he "makes" our hearts hard, though...there is a difference, to me, between "makes" and "allows"...). But, regardless, the hardening of our hearts is on us. Now, I know that sometimes it's unfair to blame ourselves when certain life circumstances out of our control have led to the hardening of our heart and soul (or, at least make it WAY easier to occur), things like abandonment, abuse, illness, etc. But, ultimately, I do think God is shining through, wanting above all else for us to see and know him...and allow God to carry our burdens. But, we "drink the Kool-Aid" of culture, or of what others beat into our heads, etc., and run. And after running awhile...our hearts go places only God himself has the power to raise them from...
*** 26"In your anger do not sin"[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. : This phrase, "don't let the sun go down while you are still angry," is one often told to newlyweds, etc., and I really do think it is a good credo to live by. But, this passage takes it deeper, giving us warning. While anger isn't sin in itself...it can delve into sin. How? When hate, malice, and an essential hope for someone's lack-of-well being to occur...yeah, bad. And unfortunately, I think 95% (my unscientific research, haha) of anger delves into the "Sin" world. But anger, when unchecked (or for non-noble reasons), can allow for Satan (yes, I said Satan) to gain further access to your heart. We all know folks who just seem to "live" in a state of anger, even if it's just simmering below the surface. And, I think at some point, they lost guard of their hearts and allowed evil to grab on...
*** 29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. : I think this may be one of the hardest things for Christians to truly grasp. Whether it's framed as sarcasm, or just "being funny", or messing with friends, or "harmless" gossip, or even just being a complete jerk, we are ALL so bad at controlling what we say. I know I've struggled with this at times in my life. I can also honestly say that an evidence of God's work in my life (and how prayer- and trust- can truly change one's heart and attitude...) is how I try to approach what I "say". My prayer is to edify, to encourage, to lift up, and be positive. Oh sure, I fail. But compared to say, oh, 1995 when I could have cared less about my speech, thing have changed mightily... And as scripture says elsewhere, "What comes out of our moths is a window to our Soul" (my paraphrase)...and if we catch UGLY coming out of us...we need to start seeking God and asking, "Ok...what is not right with my heart..." Tough to do...
Questions for me today:
How is my heart? What evidence in how I speak, what I "want to do", how I am treating others, etc., can I look at to see the status of my heart today?
What "ugly" needs to be dealt with?
Am I humble enough to be broken and admit my heart has become a hard, dark place?
What do I need to confess to God (and...others?) so the process of coming "out of the pit" can begin?
Living as Children of Light
17So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.
20You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin"[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. 28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Footnotes:
Ephesians 4:26 Psalm 4:4
Words, phrases that stuck out to me:
*** ...due to the hardening of their hearts.; verse 18: I often wonder, "How did _____ become so bitter? So angry? So uncaring? So 'meh'?" Paul lets us know that those who may be identified with these adjectives (and at times, myself), it's our heart, our soul, that has been hardened. Some areas of scripture say that God, at times, "allows" for the hardening of our hearts to get a point across (not sure that he "makes" our hearts hard, though...there is a difference, to me, between "makes" and "allows"...). But, regardless, the hardening of our hearts is on us. Now, I know that sometimes it's unfair to blame ourselves when certain life circumstances out of our control have led to the hardening of our heart and soul (or, at least make it WAY easier to occur), things like abandonment, abuse, illness, etc. But, ultimately, I do think God is shining through, wanting above all else for us to see and know him...and allow God to carry our burdens. But, we "drink the Kool-Aid" of culture, or of what others beat into our heads, etc., and run. And after running awhile...our hearts go places only God himself has the power to raise them from...
*** 26"In your anger do not sin"[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. : This phrase, "don't let the sun go down while you are still angry," is one often told to newlyweds, etc., and I really do think it is a good credo to live by. But, this passage takes it deeper, giving us warning. While anger isn't sin in itself...it can delve into sin. How? When hate, malice, and an essential hope for someone's lack-of-well being to occur...yeah, bad. And unfortunately, I think 95% (my unscientific research, haha) of anger delves into the "Sin" world. But anger, when unchecked (or for non-noble reasons), can allow for Satan (yes, I said Satan) to gain further access to your heart. We all know folks who just seem to "live" in a state of anger, even if it's just simmering below the surface. And, I think at some point, they lost guard of their hearts and allowed evil to grab on...
*** 29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. : I think this may be one of the hardest things for Christians to truly grasp. Whether it's framed as sarcasm, or just "being funny", or messing with friends, or "harmless" gossip, or even just being a complete jerk, we are ALL so bad at controlling what we say. I know I've struggled with this at times in my life. I can also honestly say that an evidence of God's work in my life (and how prayer- and trust- can truly change one's heart and attitude...) is how I try to approach what I "say". My prayer is to edify, to encourage, to lift up, and be positive. Oh sure, I fail. But compared to say, oh, 1995 when I could have cared less about my speech, thing have changed mightily... And as scripture says elsewhere, "What comes out of our moths is a window to our Soul" (my paraphrase)...and if we catch UGLY coming out of us...we need to start seeking God and asking, "Ok...what is not right with my heart..." Tough to do...
Questions for me today:
How is my heart? What evidence in how I speak, what I "want to do", how I am treating others, etc., can I look at to see the status of my heart today?
What "ugly" needs to be dealt with?
Am I humble enough to be broken and admit my heart has become a hard, dark place?
What do I need to confess to God (and...others?) so the process of coming "out of the pit" can begin?
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sharing Life // Acts 2:42-47
The Fellowship of the Believers 42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Words, phrases that stuck out:
*** 42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. : I think one area many "old school Christians" have forgotten about as a vital element of one's faith walk is the concept of sharing life with other believers. But what does that mean? Just going to the church building a couple times a week? Living together in some sort-of commune? I think there is no truly "right answer", but my guess is somewhere in between...but certainly more than just showing up at church for a service, Bible study, or fellowship time. I also don't think that there is anything really wrong with communal living...but wonder if that is the answer for everyone, either. However, I do think most of us (my family included) miss the boat as far as how much we share life with each other. I think we've become WAY too individualized in our culture. We want to be left alone more often than not. Now, don't read me wrong: I am a FIRM believer in the value of solitude, of just getting away and unplugging. BUT, I think we need to have more open doors to those around us. More truly spiritual conversation. And...well, I'll leave the next thought until after the next verse that stuck out, which is...
*** 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. : So, is this communal living? I suppose it could be, but I don't think it has to be. But it is pretty evident that the biblical way to view possessions is not "mine" as much as it is "ours". I certainly think buying things for our own enjoyment is fine (as long as it's tempered), but that we need to be careful of how possessive we are, especially if the free sharing of our "stuff" can be used to bless those who need it more than ourselves... I know that some folks will scream "SOCIALIST!" when they read that, and as I've said before, I think forced Socialism is wrong wrong wrong...(so don't label me Socialist politically. I am not. Thank you. Carry on...) But I wonder more and more if following Jesus means to choose to have a personal life that leans that way a bit (as in, the sharing of what we "have", freely, no strings attached, etc.). I know that's risky, and that goes COMPLETELY against our culture's sense of entitlement problem, thinking we deserve possessions, happiness, etc. Just a thought...and no, I'm not sure exactly what that looks like in my own family's life , either...but I am praying about what it means...
Questions for me to ponder:
What would a more involved "fellowship with other believers" look like in my own life? Go to church stuff more (even when I'd rather _______)? Plan more gatherings at my house? Proactively seek out other believers to "do life" with? _______________?
What made the early church so appealing to "outsiders"? What makes the modern (for the most part) un-appealing to outsiders? What can be done to change that?
How possessive of "my stuff" am I? Am I willing to truly share, no stings attached, if it's for God's glory?
What does "having everything in common" REALLY look like?
Words, phrases that stuck out:
*** 42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. : I think one area many "old school Christians" have forgotten about as a vital element of one's faith walk is the concept of sharing life with other believers. But what does that mean? Just going to the church building a couple times a week? Living together in some sort-of commune? I think there is no truly "right answer", but my guess is somewhere in between...but certainly more than just showing up at church for a service, Bible study, or fellowship time. I also don't think that there is anything really wrong with communal living...but wonder if that is the answer for everyone, either. However, I do think most of us (my family included) miss the boat as far as how much we share life with each other. I think we've become WAY too individualized in our culture. We want to be left alone more often than not. Now, don't read me wrong: I am a FIRM believer in the value of solitude, of just getting away and unplugging. BUT, I think we need to have more open doors to those around us. More truly spiritual conversation. And...well, I'll leave the next thought until after the next verse that stuck out, which is...
*** 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. : So, is this communal living? I suppose it could be, but I don't think it has to be. But it is pretty evident that the biblical way to view possessions is not "mine" as much as it is "ours". I certainly think buying things for our own enjoyment is fine (as long as it's tempered), but that we need to be careful of how possessive we are, especially if the free sharing of our "stuff" can be used to bless those who need it more than ourselves... I know that some folks will scream "SOCIALIST!" when they read that, and as I've said before, I think forced Socialism is wrong wrong wrong...(so don't label me Socialist politically. I am not. Thank you. Carry on...) But I wonder more and more if following Jesus means to choose to have a personal life that leans that way a bit (as in, the sharing of what we "have", freely, no strings attached, etc.). I know that's risky, and that goes COMPLETELY against our culture's sense of entitlement problem, thinking we deserve possessions, happiness, etc. Just a thought...and no, I'm not sure exactly what that looks like in my own family's life , either...but I am praying about what it means...
Questions for me to ponder:
What would a more involved "fellowship with other believers" look like in my own life? Go to church stuff more (even when I'd rather _______)? Plan more gatherings at my house? Proactively seek out other believers to "do life" with? _______________?
What made the early church so appealing to "outsiders"? What makes the modern (for the most part) un-appealing to outsiders? What can be done to change that?
How possessive of "my stuff" am I? Am I willing to truly share, no stings attached, if it's for God's glory?
What does "having everything in common" REALLY look like?
Sunday, January 11, 2009
We Don't Want God...
This is a "bloggified" version of the message I taught this week in Youth Sunday School... We, as a group, have decided that a mediocre, "ok with a 'B'"-faith/life just isn't good enough...so we are taking the chains off and plunging headfirst into some hard truths/scriptures/challenges...won't you join us?
The gospel of Jesus is hard. Messy. Dirty. It’s this amazing paradox of being freely given…yet demands everything from us. For most of us, when it comes to following Jesus, it isn’t as much of a “how-to” problem, as a “want-to” problem…we are going to discuss that...
There are several New Testament scriptures that talk about our messed up, fallen, sinful natures. One is Romans 3:23: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
We also struggle with the cause of sin. We struggle to place blame. Sometimes we even blame God (like, “If God is really in control…he must be making me sin.”). WRONG-O. James 1:13 says, When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.
So what is it?
Well, we need to go back to the beginning of our “want-to” problem: Genesis. Adam and Eve and trees and snakes. And really, I’m not interested if you think it literally happened just like this or if you think God took the first two “non-monkeys” and taught them all this stuff…and they rebelled. No matter: I read this and go, “That is SO me…”
So, I am not going to make us read the whole of Genesis 3 (but you can here if you'd like). Here is the “BIV” (Ben International Version): Adam and Eve knew God in a very real way. They directly experienced his care. He allowed all things, but told them to not mess with a tree that produced fruit, that it would “kill” them. Then a serpent, THE deceiver, the devil, said, “Whatever…you won’t ‘literally’ die…but your horizons will soooo be broadened…” So Eve ate, and then took it to Adam, who was a typical brainless man and said, “Uh, ok.” And then their eyes were opened to all this “enlightened” stuff…and they were scared. Knew they had strayed and disobeyed. And they hid from God. God found them, they made weak excuses, God informed them of the consequences, and made them leave the Garden…but not before showing he still cared for them…
Ok, a few specific points from verses that stood out to me:
1. When God said, “You will die”, I don’t think he only meant that they would physically drop and stop breathing. But, God knew that by “tasting what’s out there” we are involved in stuff ultimately more harmful than not, and thus our souls die.
2. When the serpent essentially said, “Whatever…your eyes will be opened!”, and then Eve sees that it was “desirable for gaining wisdom”, I cannot help but think of times either myself or others I know have rationalized BLATANT sin in the name of “finding myself” or “enlightenment” or “broadening horizons”. I certainly don’t think God wants us to be hermits who do not posses a mind, etc. Jesus proves that is false (just look at his life and actions). BUT, the Word clearly gives us some guidelines, and I think God knows what’s up and what’s best for us. And when we stray…well, more on that in a sec.
3. Notice what Adam and Eve did once they ate? They HID from God. Can you relate? I can. And often, it’s in the form of hiding from others, too. Really. Now, I’m no psychic, so don’t go there and get paranoid thinking I can see all your dirty secrets…but let’s say I usually can “tell” when not-all-is-right soul/wise with some of you. It may be you suddenly, without reason, stop coming to church-stuff. Or you still are here…but kinda “hide”, avoid eye-contact, conversation, etc. Or, you do talk, but it is quite harsh, not edifying, etc. That’s how we hide from God, I think. We avoid being “faced” with the Truth…
4. We do a good job at “passing the buck” like Adam and Eve did, when confronted with our lack-of-want-of-God. Eve blames being “tricked”, and Adam blames Eve. “Not my fault”. Well…yeah, it is. It always is. Maybe some things get set in motion that are “less” your fault at that time…but ultimately, the choices made that got you there…yeah, your fault. We can’t blame TV, or friends, or music, movies, Internet…
5. There are consequences (Women: pains in childbirth, desiring husband, etc.; Men: have to work the ground to “get” from it). Even when we realize where we are wrong…doesn’t mean all the “stuff” goes away.
6. But finally, even in the midst of this realization that we don’t want God…that we want to do what WE want…and to thus be left alone…God’s care and love still shines through. Look at verse 21 of Genesis 3: The LORD God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. God had every right to not only kick them out of Eden, but to never care again. But nope. He made them clothes… While the realization of their nakedness was the first evidence that they had “seen too much”, and God surely grieved…he clothed them…
So there we have it. When left to our own power and devices, our “default” if you will, we don’t want God. And as we continue this quest to crawl out of the muck of a mediocre faith, we must be confronted with this as it relates to us individually.
The gospel of Jesus is hard. Messy. Dirty. It’s this amazing paradox of being freely given…yet demands everything from us. For most of us, when it comes to following Jesus, it isn’t as much of a “how-to” problem, as a “want-to” problem…we are going to discuss that...
There are several New Testament scriptures that talk about our messed up, fallen, sinful natures. One is Romans 3:23: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
We also struggle with the cause of sin. We struggle to place blame. Sometimes we even blame God (like, “If God is really in control…he must be making me sin.”). WRONG-O. James 1:13 says, When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.
So what is it?
Well, we need to go back to the beginning of our “want-to” problem: Genesis. Adam and Eve and trees and snakes. And really, I’m not interested if you think it literally happened just like this or if you think God took the first two “non-monkeys” and taught them all this stuff…and they rebelled. No matter: I read this and go, “That is SO me…”
So, I am not going to make us read the whole of Genesis 3 (but you can here if you'd like). Here is the “BIV” (Ben International Version): Adam and Eve knew God in a very real way. They directly experienced his care. He allowed all things, but told them to not mess with a tree that produced fruit, that it would “kill” them. Then a serpent, THE deceiver, the devil, said, “Whatever…you won’t ‘literally’ die…but your horizons will soooo be broadened…” So Eve ate, and then took it to Adam, who was a typical brainless man and said, “Uh, ok.” And then their eyes were opened to all this “enlightened” stuff…and they were scared. Knew they had strayed and disobeyed. And they hid from God. God found them, they made weak excuses, God informed them of the consequences, and made them leave the Garden…but not before showing he still cared for them…
Ok, a few specific points from verses that stood out to me:
1. When God said, “You will die”, I don’t think he only meant that they would physically drop and stop breathing. But, God knew that by “tasting what’s out there” we are involved in stuff ultimately more harmful than not, and thus our souls die.
2. When the serpent essentially said, “Whatever…your eyes will be opened!”, and then Eve sees that it was “desirable for gaining wisdom”, I cannot help but think of times either myself or others I know have rationalized BLATANT sin in the name of “finding myself” or “enlightenment” or “broadening horizons”. I certainly don’t think God wants us to be hermits who do not posses a mind, etc. Jesus proves that is false (just look at his life and actions). BUT, the Word clearly gives us some guidelines, and I think God knows what’s up and what’s best for us. And when we stray…well, more on that in a sec.
3. Notice what Adam and Eve did once they ate? They HID from God. Can you relate? I can. And often, it’s in the form of hiding from others, too. Really. Now, I’m no psychic, so don’t go there and get paranoid thinking I can see all your dirty secrets…but let’s say I usually can “tell” when not-all-is-right soul/wise with some of you. It may be you suddenly, without reason, stop coming to church-stuff. Or you still are here…but kinda “hide”, avoid eye-contact, conversation, etc. Or, you do talk, but it is quite harsh, not edifying, etc. That’s how we hide from God, I think. We avoid being “faced” with the Truth…
4. We do a good job at “passing the buck” like Adam and Eve did, when confronted with our lack-of-want-of-God. Eve blames being “tricked”, and Adam blames Eve. “Not my fault”. Well…yeah, it is. It always is. Maybe some things get set in motion that are “less” your fault at that time…but ultimately, the choices made that got you there…yeah, your fault. We can’t blame TV, or friends, or music, movies, Internet…
5. There are consequences (Women: pains in childbirth, desiring husband, etc.; Men: have to work the ground to “get” from it). Even when we realize where we are wrong…doesn’t mean all the “stuff” goes away.
6. But finally, even in the midst of this realization that we don’t want God…that we want to do what WE want…and to thus be left alone…God’s care and love still shines through. Look at verse 21 of Genesis 3: The LORD God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. God had every right to not only kick them out of Eden, but to never care again. But nope. He made them clothes… While the realization of their nakedness was the first evidence that they had “seen too much”, and God surely grieved…he clothed them…
So there we have it. When left to our own power and devices, our “default” if you will, we don’t want God. And as we continue this quest to crawl out of the muck of a mediocre faith, we must be confronted with this as it relates to us individually.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Don't Blame God for Our Problem // James 1:2-18
Trials and Temptations
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
9The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. 10But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 11For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.
12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
13When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
16Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. 17Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
Words/Phrases that stuck out:
*** 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.: We often hear that is is ok (and even "good", in doses) to doubt. And in some ways, I don't disagree. But, the danger of letting doubt fester without any attempts to seek God in the doubt is where we are foolish. To me, these two verses are part of a "cycle" of sorts. Doubt? Seek wisdom. But, then don't doubt, because then you may not truly receive the wisdom you seek (and need). Once again, this passage reminds us that faith, hope, etc., MUST be more than just the "wishful thinking" it seems to be so often. It needs to be certainty. Expectation. TRUST.
*** 13When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone;: Oh, how often many of us "blame" God for our temptations, struggles, and sin in the name of, "Well, God is in control...right? Then it must be his fault, right?" This passage says emphatically, NO.
*** ...after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.; verse 15: The problem with sin isn't God. It is us. It is the desires we have. We want our way, not God's, when it comes to our true nature. And this verse shows a sort of "formula" for how desire leads to sin, and leads to death. Ultimately, physical, but also spiritual death. I know when I let me fleeting, selfish desires take over, almost always they end up in sin, and my soul dies a bit. Only God can regenerate my soul...and that is what I must let Him do!
Questions to ponder:
Do I seek wisdom? Or is it just "lip service"? If I receive wisdom, do I pay attention? Do I allow God to change my heart with this wisdom, or just go, "Oh, that's not what I expected/wanted/like"?
What is the source of my temptations? Do I blame God?
Do I really believe that desire/sin kills my soul?
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
9The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. 10But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 11For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.
12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
13When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
16Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. 17Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
Words/Phrases that stuck out:
*** 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.: We often hear that is is ok (and even "good", in doses) to doubt. And in some ways, I don't disagree. But, the danger of letting doubt fester without any attempts to seek God in the doubt is where we are foolish. To me, these two verses are part of a "cycle" of sorts. Doubt? Seek wisdom. But, then don't doubt, because then you may not truly receive the wisdom you seek (and need). Once again, this passage reminds us that faith, hope, etc., MUST be more than just the "wishful thinking" it seems to be so often. It needs to be certainty. Expectation. TRUST.
*** 13When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone;: Oh, how often many of us "blame" God for our temptations, struggles, and sin in the name of, "Well, God is in control...right? Then it must be his fault, right?" This passage says emphatically, NO.
*** ...after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.; verse 15: The problem with sin isn't God. It is us. It is the desires we have. We want our way, not God's, when it comes to our true nature. And this verse shows a sort of "formula" for how desire leads to sin, and leads to death. Ultimately, physical, but also spiritual death. I know when I let me fleeting, selfish desires take over, almost always they end up in sin, and my soul dies a bit. Only God can regenerate my soul...and that is what I must let Him do!
Questions to ponder:
Do I seek wisdom? Or is it just "lip service"? If I receive wisdom, do I pay attention? Do I allow God to change my heart with this wisdom, or just go, "Oh, that's not what I expected/wanted/like"?
What is the source of my temptations? Do I blame God?
Do I really believe that desire/sin kills my soul?
Monday, January 5, 2009
Ignore What You Feel //2 Timothy 3:10-4:8
Paul's Charge to Timothy
10You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, 11persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. 12In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 4
1In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 3For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
6For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Words and phrases that stuck out to me:
*** ...everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted...; verse 3:12: This is something I think all believers need to realize. So many of us (not all) were saved with, for better or worse, a sense that "now everything will be fixed!" Well, sure, that's true, but not from an earthly standpoint. From a spiritual, soul standpoint, YES, but relationships may still be broken, consequences felt, decisions based on faith are ridiculed by others, and debts still out there. Along those lines is the FACT that if one is following Christ with everything they have, not everyone will like it. Some, no matter how much love or good intentions you have guiding you, will still ridicule, despise, and yes, hate you. Now, that shouldn't stop us from following a mighty God who has us in his hand and has great plans for us, but often the realization of persecution can almost "neuter" one's faith if it isn't realized as a cost of being a true Christian...
*** ...continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of...; verse 3:14: To me, this is more than just a "persevere" verse; it is a charge to have faith in what we believe and are convinced of. I think the word "hope" is supposed to mean convinced, but sadly, we have made hope so much less than that. Hope to us, now is this: "I hope that things will get better." That hope does not seem certain. It is a flimsy foundation at best, where we figure it doesn't hurt to think that maybe something good will happen. NO. Godly hope is being convinced, regardless of if we are "feeling it" or not, whether we just lost a debate with someone not believing and now we feel stupid, or even when it all just looks foolish when we use our human criteria to make decisions. How we approach life, the teachings we follow, beliefs we have that we hold as true-of-God, we need to remember the certainty of...even in the midst of our wavering hearts.
*** Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season...; verse 4:2: This, to me, is another, "How you 'feel' ultimately doesn't matter" challenge. I must be ready to share the Word, whether through my voice, or an email, or even just living the Word through my actions, whether I feel "ready" or not. Too often I try to slip out the back door of an opportunity to minister because I just don't feel ready or prepared...but if I truly believe (with, um...certainty?) that the Holy Spirit will intercede for me, then I must trust and go.
Questions for me:
How am I a slave to how I "feel" in relation to my yielding (or not) to God? Am I enough in love with Christ for all he's done to save me and sustain me, that I would do ANYTHING for him, despite persecution?
10You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, 11persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. 12In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 4
1In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 3For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
6For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Words and phrases that stuck out to me:
*** ...everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted...; verse 3:12: This is something I think all believers need to realize. So many of us (not all) were saved with, for better or worse, a sense that "now everything will be fixed!" Well, sure, that's true, but not from an earthly standpoint. From a spiritual, soul standpoint, YES, but relationships may still be broken, consequences felt, decisions based on faith are ridiculed by others, and debts still out there. Along those lines is the FACT that if one is following Christ with everything they have, not everyone will like it. Some, no matter how much love or good intentions you have guiding you, will still ridicule, despise, and yes, hate you. Now, that shouldn't stop us from following a mighty God who has us in his hand and has great plans for us, but often the realization of persecution can almost "neuter" one's faith if it isn't realized as a cost of being a true Christian...
*** ...continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of...; verse 3:14: To me, this is more than just a "persevere" verse; it is a charge to have faith in what we believe and are convinced of. I think the word "hope" is supposed to mean convinced, but sadly, we have made hope so much less than that. Hope to us, now is this: "I hope that things will get better." That hope does not seem certain. It is a flimsy foundation at best, where we figure it doesn't hurt to think that maybe something good will happen. NO. Godly hope is being convinced, regardless of if we are "feeling it" or not, whether we just lost a debate with someone not believing and now we feel stupid, or even when it all just looks foolish when we use our human criteria to make decisions. How we approach life, the teachings we follow, beliefs we have that we hold as true-of-God, we need to remember the certainty of...even in the midst of our wavering hearts.
*** Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season...; verse 4:2: This, to me, is another, "How you 'feel' ultimately doesn't matter" challenge. I must be ready to share the Word, whether through my voice, or an email, or even just living the Word through my actions, whether I feel "ready" or not. Too often I try to slip out the back door of an opportunity to minister because I just don't feel ready or prepared...but if I truly believe (with, um...certainty?) that the Holy Spirit will intercede for me, then I must trust and go.
Questions for me:
How am I a slave to how I "feel" in relation to my yielding (or not) to God? Am I enough in love with Christ for all he's done to save me and sustain me, that I would do ANYTHING for him, despite persecution?
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Things Learned During the Great Unplug of Late 08/Early 09
Between December 24 and January 3, I did something I rarely accomplish: I basically unplugged. No internet (including facebook), with the exception of twice checking email (and thankfully I didn't have any needing immediate replies). I also, thankfully, had zero phone calls/texts except those dealing with a New Years' Eve party we were attending and needed to correspond over. It was SO FREEING. In fact, the hardest part may have been not blogging! Oh well. On to some random, not-ranked musings from my time:
I have recently replaced listening to music each time I exercise with listening to messages from other churches, most recently from Austin Stone Community Church (www.austinstone.org). I am quite inspired by their message, goals, and mission.
Don't forget to kiss your wife at midnight on New Years' Eve. Ever. Just don't. Trust me.
I think it's funny how some folks just can't unplug (and I noticed it more since I did). I mean, not offensive, just...kinda funny. I was at a party on Dec. 31, and it was a great time! But, at least once I saw over half those attending (and these are folks in their upper-20s through upper-30s) typing away things on their iphones, etc. I guess I'm old fashioned, as I'm the guy who will often "lose" (haha) their cell phone in the car when I'm eating with someone or hanging out... :-) But, I still must be careful not to judge, as I would certainly have huge temptation to surf the web non-stop, update facebooks and twitters, and always be checking my email if I had one of those phones with such capability...
I am a BAD singer, but I must be better than at least some guys, as I beat several folks in the surprisingly fun "SingStar" game.
I really do miss just hanging out with folks. I mean, we have friends were we live now, sure, but not really any we just hang with very often. Every time we get together with the Austin's or Travis' (and the crew that accompanies them), Missy and I just have a ball, and it shows me that I can be quite the social animal when I want to be :-).
Don't forget to kiss your wife at midnight on New Years' Eve. Ever. Just don't. Trust me.
I didn't do my usual "zone out spiritually"-thing like I often do on vacations. I still enjoyed engaging scripture most days, and even finished a GREAT book (Rich Mullins: An Arrow Pointing to Heaven) while in Arlington post-Christmas.
Jax is a hiking hoss. Really, dang. And only 4 1/2, yet so "directionally inclined". I had so much fun on our nearly daily hikes.
While we didn't really get out much while in Kerrville (like to eat, shop, etc.), I still felt refreshed when I returned. Motivated. All those things. Look out...
Don't forget to kiss your wife at midnight on New Years' Eve. Ever. Just don't. Trust me.
I think it may be physically impossible to actually lose weight over the Thanksgiving/Christmas holidays. I held stead most of Deceber in my typical 185ish-land, and I at least thought I was eating a bit less/healthier than normal (with a few exceptions, of course...but often large amounts of food at meals are NOT exceptions this time of year) coupled with nearly daily exercise in Kerrville (not counting hikes) and, oh, doing about 1200 pushups and 1400 crunches over a 7-day period...I still somehow gained like 4 or 5 pounds. Sigh.
Did I mention to not forget kissing the wifey at midnight, Dec. 31? Ok, I guess I will fess up and tell the story: Yes, I forgot all about that tradition. We were watching the ball drop at the Austin's in San Antonio, and since I am old, I was tired by, oh, 10:30 pm. So when midnight hit, I was zoned out, staring at the corner of the table or something. I missed all the couples kissing. I groggily look up at Missy, who gives me (what I thought was, at least) a brief, playful "air kiss". I look at her confused, kinda chuckling. She got mad. "You didn't even kiss me". Oops. I felt SO BAD. I could tell she was hurt, and although some would say, "Oh, big deal...", you all who are married know that some stuff you just don't mess with. And I guess kissing at midnight on New Years Eve is one of those times for us! Sorry Missy! I truly was bummed that I forgot... It's all good now...
I have recently replaced listening to music each time I exercise with listening to messages from other churches, most recently from Austin Stone Community Church (www.austinstone.org). I am quite inspired by their message, goals, and mission.
Don't forget to kiss your wife at midnight on New Years' Eve. Ever. Just don't. Trust me.
I think it's funny how some folks just can't unplug (and I noticed it more since I did). I mean, not offensive, just...kinda funny. I was at a party on Dec. 31, and it was a great time! But, at least once I saw over half those attending (and these are folks in their upper-20s through upper-30s) typing away things on their iphones, etc. I guess I'm old fashioned, as I'm the guy who will often "lose" (haha) their cell phone in the car when I'm eating with someone or hanging out... :-) But, I still must be careful not to judge, as I would certainly have huge temptation to surf the web non-stop, update facebooks and twitters, and always be checking my email if I had one of those phones with such capability...
I am a BAD singer, but I must be better than at least some guys, as I beat several folks in the surprisingly fun "SingStar" game.
I really do miss just hanging out with folks. I mean, we have friends were we live now, sure, but not really any we just hang with very often. Every time we get together with the Austin's or Travis' (and the crew that accompanies them), Missy and I just have a ball, and it shows me that I can be quite the social animal when I want to be :-).
Don't forget to kiss your wife at midnight on New Years' Eve. Ever. Just don't. Trust me.
I didn't do my usual "zone out spiritually"-thing like I often do on vacations. I still enjoyed engaging scripture most days, and even finished a GREAT book (Rich Mullins: An Arrow Pointing to Heaven) while in Arlington post-Christmas.
Jax is a hiking hoss. Really, dang. And only 4 1/2, yet so "directionally inclined". I had so much fun on our nearly daily hikes.
While we didn't really get out much while in Kerrville (like to eat, shop, etc.), I still felt refreshed when I returned. Motivated. All those things. Look out...
Don't forget to kiss your wife at midnight on New Years' Eve. Ever. Just don't. Trust me.
I think it may be physically impossible to actually lose weight over the Thanksgiving/Christmas holidays. I held stead most of Deceber in my typical 185ish-land, and I at least thought I was eating a bit less/healthier than normal (with a few exceptions, of course...but often large amounts of food at meals are NOT exceptions this time of year) coupled with nearly daily exercise in Kerrville (not counting hikes) and, oh, doing about 1200 pushups and 1400 crunches over a 7-day period...I still somehow gained like 4 or 5 pounds. Sigh.
Did I mention to not forget kissing the wifey at midnight, Dec. 31? Ok, I guess I will fess up and tell the story: Yes, I forgot all about that tradition. We were watching the ball drop at the Austin's in San Antonio, and since I am old, I was tired by, oh, 10:30 pm. So when midnight hit, I was zoned out, staring at the corner of the table or something. I missed all the couples kissing. I groggily look up at Missy, who gives me (what I thought was, at least) a brief, playful "air kiss". I look at her confused, kinda chuckling. She got mad. "You didn't even kiss me". Oops. I felt SO BAD. I could tell she was hurt, and although some would say, "Oh, big deal...", you all who are married know that some stuff you just don't mess with. And I guess kissing at midnight on New Years Eve is one of those times for us! Sorry Missy! I truly was bummed that I forgot... It's all good now...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
