Willing and Waiting

"Everyone who does any of these detestable things—such persons must be cut off from their people. Keep my requirements and do not follow any of the detestable customs that were practiced before you came and do not defile yourselves with them. I am the Lord your God."

Leviticus 18:29 - 30

 

This morning I was reading through Leviticus and this passage stuck out… actually… it jumped out, smacked me around, and then went back about its business.

 

Brethren, we are not to be conformed to this world… we are called out to be God's instruments of righteousness, pointing people to Christ (Romans 12).

 

Will you present yourself as a willing vessel?

Seriously...

Seriously...

I mean... really?

I checked my spam account today. This is the email address I use to register for things so I won't get bombarded with tons of nonsense. Looks like I got several "once in a lifetime opportunity"'s (I stopped counting at 11)!

Apparently, all I have to do is send _____ my contact info and I will be the recipient of millions.

WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE THESE PEOPLE THINKING?

(Editorial note: If you get these emails either delete them immediately or reply with the Gospel. They are scams.)

I am so thankful that the Lord gives most people eyes to see those scams that sound too good to be true.

But more than that I am thankful that Christ suffered and died for my sins. While I am sitting here thinking about how evil these people are for trying to scam those who are desperate and lack discernment... I am reminded of my own sin. My failure to obey my God and King.

Thank you Lord for your grace.

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. Titus 2:11 - 14

You don't scare me...

This morning's text was a powerful one... 1 Samuel 17.

David, strengthened by his trust in the Lord's provision takes on what
seems like an impossible task.

Folks, what has Christ called you to that only you can do?

Will you follow His leading and allow Him to glorify Himself through
you?

What are you afraid of?

This house is protected by Batman

WALK BY FAITH

This Sunday we will be looking at the story of David and Goliath.

 

This is not an inspirational story about an UNDER-DOG.  

 

This is an exhortation to walk by faith.

 

What we are looking at today is the recounting of a young man's total confidence in God.

 

He allowed his theology to interpret his circumstance.

 

He did not see Goliath as a threat to himself, but as an offense to God.

 

 

This is an exhortation to walk by faith.

 

 

Windows 2010 home edition

That's just plain funny.

:)


(sent from a spellcheck-less mobile device)

Daddy, did you see me?

"Daddy, did you see me?"

...

"Daddy, did you see me?"

Last Saturday I went to my oldest daughter's ballet class. She is
really getting the hang for dance. When her class let out and the
herd of young ballerinas came through the door to their parents I
overheard again and again, "Daddy, did you see me"? Not only do
children take great joy in pleasing their parents, but as a father I
certify that that parents take great pleasure in rejoicing with them.

Believer, remember that, "...whether you eat or drink or whatever you
do, do it all for the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31)

When was the last time you went to the Father and told Him about your day?

Why not today?

Izz is...

Bye bye...

:)

You Have Today...

"Dream as if you have forever, Live as if you only have today."
-- Author unknown (to me anyway)

 

I am so thankful that the Lord laid out His plan for us.  We are told to seek His will for us (Psalm 40:8; Romans 12:1 – 2, and elsewhere).  Probably the most telling statement made in the life of Christ about seeking the will of God is found in John 7:17:

 

If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.

 

The Book of Proverbs exhorts us to live wisely and plan for the future and at the same time, James cautions us to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." (James 4:15).

 

We are called to be steadfast in our faith, and look to the glorious reappearing of Christ! (2 Peter 2 - 3)

 

There is so much to be done and often times we feel like there is too much for us to do for the Lord.

 

When you feel like that remember:

 

You have today.

 

Then ask yourself:

 

With all of today's potential... what will I make of it?

YOUR FAITH IS SHOWING

Why is it "God" always tells crazy people to do crazy [stuff] like kill people, why doesn't he tell them things like.....Do the dishes, or walk the dog???

-- A friend of mine

 

Wow… what a telling statement.

 

How would you answer this? What would you say to my friend?

 

Brothers and sisters in Christ, this is a real concern.  This is why the Scriptures declare:

 

So 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. They 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. Having 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. You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

-- Ephesians 4:17 - 24

 

Folks… the world is watching and taking notes.

 

Watch your life and doctrine… they are showing.

Gadget, Gadgets everywhere...

I have a confession... I love technology.

I appreciate the tools that have come along in the last few years and
it is amazing to see what have been developed in just the few short
years that I have been breathing air. Some readers out there can not
appreciate this... but I remember when Mario was 8 bit and a 32 inch
TV was considered MAMMOTH! Good night... there were no Pentium 3's,
2's, or 1's... (Sorry for the time warp there.)

Recently I listened to a couple of pod casts on technology and the
direction it seems to be headed. Listening to some of these tech guys
talking about technology as "advancements"... I wonder how many of
these tools, ideas, procedures, and techniques are, in fact, NOT
ADVANCEMENTS... But retreats?  Some of the most "innovative" stuff can
actually be a retreat to more comfortable and familiar territory.

Here's something all of us should consider: Do I take the easy route
for the sake of comfort?

Certainly Jesus didn't.

Technology is great... utilize it.

Gadgets are great... allow them to make you more productive.

But the end goal of these modern marvels on ingenuity should be to
make us better servants of the King. And at the end of the day,
that's what should matter.

A book review for you preachers out there

Happy New Year!

 

What better way to begin the year than with a book review?

 

Haddon Robinson offers the church a concise and extremely helpful volume on preaching in Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages.  I love his use of language and the fact that Robinson, as a master teacher, speaks on "my level".  As a writer, and a preacher… I respect that.

 

If you are looking for a book to help round off a few rough edges in your sermon(s), I wholeheartedly recommend Biblical Preaching.

 

The copy I read is a first print from 1980. (Yep... this book is as old as I am.)  Here is the updated edition (2001)

 

http://www.amazon.com/Biblical-Preaching-Development-Delivery-Expository/dp/0801022622/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262302636&sr=8-1

 

Robinson gets high marks from me on this one and, infinitely more important, what this book aims at producing glorifies Jesus… namely, Biblical Preaching.  If I had to sum the book up in one thought it would be:  The preacher is to communicate truth to those who need it.  If it is not properly communicated... we have failed in our task.  Clarity over profundity.

 

Note:  If you enjoy listening to podcasts on sermon development and would like more from Haddon Robinson... here's the link in iTunes.  The podcast is called PREACHING POINTS.

http://deimos3.apple.com/WebObjects/Core.woa/Browse/gcts-public.2209853432

NEW YEAR'S IS ALMOST HERE

Forget resolutions... let's talk service.

 

Who will you serve in 2010?

 

How will you contribute to the outreach of the Gospel in 2010?

 

How will you become more like Christ in 2010?

 

What lengths will you got o for someone to hear the Good News who hasn't heard yet?

 

What will you do in 2010 that you have not done for Christ yet?

 

What steps of faith will you take?

 

With how much boldness will you proclaim His Name?

 

Forget resolutions... let's talk service!

A Heart to Worship

The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath. 

1 Thessalonians 1:8 - 10

 

Why does man worship?

 

Why do we find every tribe of people on the planet yearning to worship someone or something?  Most people desire to "be a part of something bigger than themselves".  Why is that?

 

God has placed inside every human a longing to worship.  If they choose to reject Him that need will be fulfilled by worshiping the creation rather than the Creator.

(See Romans 1)

 

The question before all of us is simple:

 

Am I worshiping the One true God?

It's Snowing!

:)

Something worth reading

I am not trying to funnel devotional writing to others, but here is something we all will benefit from reading.

 

http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GracedAgain/~3/cKO2V0ZbKKM/having-a-system-makes-life-better.html

 

Blessings!

Faithful Service

Recently, Daniela's computer was fixed.

(a couple of months ago it got a really nasty virus)

Anyway, I am writing this from that machine. I really appreciate the familiarity I once enjoyed. This machine has been in our home(s) for years. It just... well... works for us. It is a simple machine and, when it's not sick, is a rather reliable /faithful machine.

As I got to thinking about that, I started wondering if there is any service for the Lord that I do that is simple and faithful?

It would be a good idea to ask yourself the same question... Is my service to the Lord simple and faithful?

Sammy the not-so-red-nosed Sam

:)

The sacrifice of prioritizing!

The desire to do a thing must carry with it the willingness to sacrifice for it.

 

Greetings.

 

Recently I have been thinking about the statement above.  What am I willing to sacrifice for?  Now, let me challenge you to do the same… but in a slightly different way.

 

What do you spend your time on now that takes away from things you could / should be doing?

 

To put it another way, how much time do you waste on selfish things, when you could be spending your time encouraging and building up others?  How much time during your day is consumed with trivial things that need not get done?

 

Maybe we do sacrifice our time, talent, and treasure… but for the wrong things?

 

It's all a matter of priorities.

 

…when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.

Galatians 4:4 - 5

A Savior is born!

(So sorry for not blogging in a while… excuse… excuse… there.  Now I am out of excuses.)

"There is nothing so useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all."

-- Peter Drucker

Mr. Drucker has a great point there. Whether ministry, business, house work… anything really.

 

Why did Jesus come to earth?  Why was He born in a manger?  Why was He born to poor country folks?  Why did He suffer the rejection and undergo the turmoil (not to mention the crucifixion!)?  Why?  Is saving humanity from their sin, "that which should not be done at all"?

 

Clearly in the heart and mind of God, we are His special possession.  You remember that today… and tomorrow… and anytime you feel like no one cares.  Jesus cares.

 

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:11

Angry Penguin says there is a 45 minute wait!

Christmas Rap

We have some talented students.

Izzy the Not-so-red nosed...

Ana's Birthday Cookie

Ohhhhhh Yaaaaaaaaa !!!!!!!

Perspective

This is a video I shot after some guacamole fell on Daniela's pants.
It sure looks like a duck at furst, but once you gain some
perspective... you see it's really just a stain.

I'm sure that in your life, gaining a little perspective on certain
things would reap great benefits.

Generosity and Wealth!

Better a little with the fear of the LORD

than great wealth with turmoil.

Better a meal of vegetables where there is love

than a fattened calf with hatred.

Proverbs 15:16 - 17

 

It is hard not to notice that in our country, we are blessed.  Sure, there is somewhat of a problem with our economy at the moment, but a candid look at the history of the U.S.A. will show that we are, most certainly, blessed.  And that should serve as a great caution to us.  Often times the Lord used wealth (or the lack thereof) as a refining agent... something designed to purge impurities from our lives.

 

Here are a few things to ask yourself regarding wealth:

 

1.  Do I see my "net worth" as being on wall street, or in Christ?

 

2.  Am I being a good steward with what the Lord has entrusted to me?

 

3.  Am I being generous with what the Lord has blessed me with?

 

4.  Am I seeking to be a blessing?

 

All a man's ways seem innocent to him,

but motives are weighed by the LORD.

Proverbs 16:2

 

Timidly following Christ?

I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:3 - 7

 

Paul wrote 2 Timothy to a young guy named... of all things... Timothy.

 

Timothy had a lot going for him.  He learned at Paul's side.  He was well spoken of not only by Paul, but we can assume from the other apostles.  But he, like all of us, wrestled with timidity.

 

What makes us back down from doing what we know we ought?

 

Fear of man?  Possibly.  There is always the fear that we will not be well received.

 

Insecurity? Possibly.  There is always the potential for the nagging feeling that we are not able to accomplish such and such a job for the Lord.

 

Are there more than two? Of course. But the reasons for timidity are not nearly as important as the call to be powerful (in your faith), loving, and self disciplined.  Ask yourself today:

 

What has the Lord called me to and equipped me for that I am not boldly pursuing?

The Aftermath!

The Cake.

:)

More birthday pics

Video

More birthday pics

B-day video

More birthday pics

birthday party pics

Ana's Birthday Cake

Soldiers of the Cross

"The scientific name for an animal that doesn't either run from or fight its enemies is lunch."

-- Michael Friedman

I know it has been a while since my last post.  But, as we all know, things happen.  Today is not like any other day.  It certainly is not like yesterday, and will undoubtedly be altogether different from tomorrow. 

 

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down and talking to a young guy in the military.  Over the years, I have really come to appreciate the character and passion of these folks.  The men and women that serve us by fighting for our freedom are highly trained and it shows.

 

We are called to be soldiers for Christ:

 

To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker, to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church that meets in your home…

Philemon 1 and 2

 

But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.

Philippians 2:25

 

There are other references we could look to, but is it really necessary?  Paul, a man called out by God to take the gospel to the gentiles sees the Christians life as many things... a relationship... a betrothal... a master builder designing the most amazing structure.  But he also sees it as a battle that everyone is engaged in.  The question, then, is:

 

Are you willing to fight for your King?

 

If so, are you sharpening your sword and charging into the trenches everyday?

 

If not... why not?

 

 

Consider the Scriptures

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:14 - 17

 

Timothy, like all of us, was tempted to veer from what he was taught... the truth about Christ.  Notice what Paul does here... he doesn't appeal to modern methods... he doesn't appeal to special knowledge... he doesn't even pull rank and say, "I am the Apostle Paul and you will do what I say."

 

What is the basis for Paul's charge to Timothy? "...you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus."  Paul appeals to the power of the Gospel and the Scriptures that proclaim it!

 

The next time you are faced with the temptation to veer from the truth... consider "the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus."

 

Shalom.

 

 

 

Fun from yesterday!

Done worn that baby out!

Thanksgiving

Now Naomi had a relative on her husband's side, from the clan of
Elimelech, a man of standing, whose name was Boaz. And Ruth the
Moabitess said to Naomi, "Let me go to the fields and pick up the
leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor." Naomi said
to her, "Go ahead, my daughter." So she went out and began to glean
in the fields behind the harvesters. As it turned out, she found
herself working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of
Elimelech.
Ruth 2:1 - 3

There is so much to glean from Ruth chapter 2 (pun intended).

But just a quick thought for this Thanksgiving...

At the time Ruth may not have felt too blessed... but we all know she
was.

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?

Be a blessing

Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. Their teaching will spread like gangrene.

2 Timothy 2:16 - 17

 

I do not read the newspaper.  I subscribe to several rss feeds that the major media outlets provide. (For an explanation of rss feeds click here.)  One of the things that is absolutely amazing is the amount of gossip that comes across the news channels.  One would think that the conservative media outlets would stick to their principles and report... the news. 

 

But alas... the temptation to indulge in godless chatter is too irresistible for some.  Here is something to consider every time we speak (or listen):

 

Is the conversation I am involved in going to edify and encourage?

 

If it is not... then maybe you should engage in a different conversation.  Why?  Reread 2 Timothy 2:16 - 17.  This sort of thing spreads like gangrene.

 

Be a blessing.

 

 

The Charge to Discharge

In 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: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For 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. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

2 Timothy 4:1 - 5

 

So much has been written (and is being written) about this passage and it's application to our day.  One can hardly read the text above without thinking Paul had today in mind when he penned it.  But because so much has been devoted to verses 1 - 4, let's look at verse 5.

 

But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

 

While the world seeks to do its own thing, the believer (and especially the pastor-teachers) are to:

 

keep your head in all situations - The christian leader is to keep his or her eyes focused on Jesus.. the Author and Perfecter of our faith.

 

endure hardship - Jesus never promised an easy ride... only a worthy goal.

 

do the work of an evangelist - What the world needs n more people who are not afraid to share their relationship with Christ.

 

discharge all the duties of your ministry - Remember... these words are coming from a seasoned veteran... not a new recruit.

 

No matter what your ministry is: father... mother... student... boss... pastor... deacon... able servant....

 

The charge is the same... DISCHARGE ALL THE DUTIES OF YOUR MINISTRY.

A Personal Touch

I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong —  that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith. I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles. I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are at Rome.

Romans 1:11-15

 

Sometimes we take the technology that makes our modern world move for granted.  In an age of blogging and social media, there is a tendency to loose that "human touch".  Consider the words Paul uses in the text above.

 

- He longs to see the Roman Christians.

 

- He planned to come to them.

 

- He is eager to preach the gospel to the Romans.

 

But alas... what do we find Paul doing?  Writing 15 more chapters of a letter.

 

Brethren, we should take every opportunity afforded to us to connect with people, but never loose that human touch.

7 things

A scoundrel and villain,

who goes about with a corrupt mouth,

who winks with his eye,

signals with his feet

and motions with his fingers,

who plots evil with deceit in his heart—

he always stirs up dissension.

Therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant;

he will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy.

 

There are six things the Lord hates,

seven that are detestable to him:

haughty eyes, a lying tongue,

hands that shed innocent blood,

a heart that devises wicked schemes,

feet that are quick to rush into evil,

a false witness who pours out lies

and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.

Proverbs 6:12 - 19

 

Proverbs is a book full of opposition.  By that I mean, Solomon (and others) write in such a way that two opposing ways of life or ideas are pitted together to prove or enhance a point.  Consider this from Proverbs 13 =

 

A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke. (Verse 1)

 

But that is not what we began with is it?  What Proverbs 6:12 - 19 does is lays out the characteristics of evil people.

 

One perspective is from man.

 

The other, from the heart of the Lord.

 

There is no misunderstanding what the Lord is seeking to communicate:  There are 7 things that are detestable to Him.

 

No room for doubt... no discussion.

 

Praise the Lord for clearly telling us (and in this case showing us) what does not please Him.

Don't focus on the waves

"Today don't focus on the waves.  Focus on the One who can walk on them."

 

I saw this come across one of the feeds I subscribe to.  How often do we focus on our circumstances and not the One who allowed those circumstances in to our lives?  Next time you are faced with a difficult situation, a hard choice, or simply the unknown:

• Ask the Lord for guidance.

---  and  ---

• Trust His leading.

Worship is at its purest, when we are trusting Christ with all we have.

 

"But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."

John 4:23 - 24

The Main Thing

For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now 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.

2 Timothy 4:6 - 8

 

My intention is not to mine this passage, but to simply bring the following to your attention:

 

1. Paul is tired, and ready to go be with the Lord.  But notice that he even sees his death as a sacrifice to the Lord.

 

2. Paul sees his service as exactly that... service. He has finished the race... effort... work. 

 

3. Despite all his heartache and persecution, Paul has kept the faith.

 

and the observation we all need to see!

 

4. There is a crown of righteousness for all those who have LONGED FOR JESUS' APPEARING!

 

Are you living with a view to the second coming of Christ?

To daddy with love

The other day my oldest daughter (Dannia) drew me a bunny.  She thought of her daddy and wanted to make me something that she takes pleasure in... bunnies.  What did I say?  "Thank you baby... this is wonderful!" and it is.  She took time out of her day to draw me something. 

 

I can't but help think of the Lord's commands to His church:

 

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31

 

and...

 

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Colossians 3:23 and 24

 

Being a father has really impacted my understanding of the Fatherhood of God.  With what we have seen above, are you seeking to please your Father with and in everything you do?

 

 

Why do we even buy them toys?

My kids having a great time amusing themselves (and us)!

Stirring the Pot

Hatred stirs up dissension,

but love covers over all wrongs.

Proverbs 10:12

 

It doesn't matter how you try to mask it. 

 

It doesn't matter how you try to hide it. 

 

You know the moment you walk in a home if the cookies have been burnt.  For the moment, forget my love for cookies.  There is something about the smell of burnt cookies that makes the face squirm.  That smell causes an almost instantaneous... and unfavorable reaction.

 

Like the smell of burnt cookies, hatred causes some rather unwholesome effects.  Among them are stirring up dissension.  One of the seven things the Lord hates in Proverbs 6:16 - 19 is "a man who stirs up dissension among brothers."

 

While one man in this proverb is seeking to destroy, another is seeking to encourage and restore for, "love covers over all wrongs."

 

When faced with the choice, always choose restoration over destruction.  That is what God the Father chose in sending His Son.

A message from the ants.

Go to the ant, you sluggard;

consider its ways and be wise!

It has no commander,

no overseer or ruler,

yet it stores its provisions in summer

and gathers its food at harvest.

Proverbs 6:6 - 8

 

Instinct?  Survival skills?  Lessons his mommy taught him? 

 

The ant gathers what it needs for the journey. 

 

There is no formal decree.  The ants act.

 

There are no pronouncements from the upper echelons of ant-dom.  The ants act.

 

So... let's consider there ways and be wise.

 

Jesus said:

 

My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying 'One sows and another reaps' is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.

John 4:34 - 38

 

Will you consider the ways of the ant?  Will you labor in the field and serve your King?

 

Words

When words are many, sin is not absent,

but he who holds his tongue is wise.

Proverbs 10:19

 

The first time I read this I was deeply convicted by my "free speech".  I used to speak just about everything that was on my mind.  This often got me into a lot of trouble (as I'm sure anyone with chronic foot-in-mouth disease can attest.)  As I grew in Christ I found myself saying less and less.  One day, after being convicted of this yet again, I prayed, "Lord.  Please afford me the wisdom to know when I should remain silent." The Lord did not respond... as if to say, "Follow this example."

 

But simply remaining silent does not ALWAYS benefit.  Ephesians 4:29 says:

 

Do 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.

 

...and just a few lines down in Proverbs we read:

 

The lips of the righteous know what is fitting,

but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.

Proverbs 10:32

 

This is more than tact.  The righteous know that there are words, innuendos, and topics that are not appropriate, ever.

 

There is a story of a preacher who was visiting a family in the church he served.  The father said, "I have a really great joke for you.  I'll tell you as soon as the children leave the room."  The preacher replied, "then maybe you should not tell it."

 

Brethren... "live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature."  Galatians 5:16

Paralyzed by Grace

As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, "Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? Didn't we say to you in Egypt, 'Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians'? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!"

Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Exodus 14:10 - 14

Have you ever been gripped with fear? How about paralysed with fear? Have you ever looked at your situation and felt helpless... hopeless? This is exactly what the Israelites felt when they saw the Egyptian army advancing.

No weapons...

No training...

No idea where they were to go...

Helpless...

Hopeless... (or were they?)

What these dear people forgot was the One who delivered them with a strong arm. They forgot the Lord.

They focused on how small they were against such a threat instead on how small their threat was to THEIR HUGE GOD!

Please do not miss the significance of this....

It was the Lord who was going to win this battle... not the Israelites. True... the Israelites would be the recipients of the blessings... but the battle belonged to the Lord.

I don't know what you are going through at this very moment... but you can take comfort in knowing these three things:

1. Jesus is bigger than your problem.

2. He is constantly fighting for and interceding for God's people.

3. You are safe in the will of God.

Jesus came to set the captives free and sometimes freedom can be scary.

When you think life has gained the upper hand and you feel overwhelmed, take this counsel from the book of Hebrews:

"...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
Hebrews 12:1 - 3

To be or not to be

Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways,

for the Lord detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence.

Proverbs 3:31 - 32

 

The first time I read this I thought, "Why on earth would I envy a violent man?"  That very thing... violence... is not something I want to be known for.  But isn't that what society at large magnifies?  What news stories do station producers seem to gravitate to?  What movies are blockbusters?  What sporting events get the most attention?

 

Now, before you come to any conclusions, let me state this rather frankly:

 

There is nothing inherently wrong with watching the news, going to the movies, or sports.

 

That is not what the Scriptures are saying here.  Solomon wants his children (and by application... us) to be characterized by and known for their uprightness.  The believer should be known for their meekness and humility... not anger or violence.

 

Consider a handful of qualifications for the overseer (elder):

 

Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

1 Timothy 3:1 - 3

 

While it is true that everyone will not be an overseer (elder), that does not mean that these things should be absent from your life.

 

Please consider the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:3 - 12 as He opens the famed Sermon on the Mount. (Click on the verse if you don't have a Bible handy.)

 

Remember the BEATITUDES are exactly those... things believers should BE.

 

May the Lord bless you as you seek His will.

Suffering and the Will of God

So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.

2 Timothy 1:8 - 9

 

Yes you read that right... "join with me in suffering for the gospel".  Paul wrote a letter of instruction and encouragement to his young protege that included the words, "join with me in suffering for the gospel". 

 

I don't know about you, but I do not look forward to suffering.  That's not accurate... I also know that you don;t either.  Jesus, remember, prayed:

 

"My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."

Matthew 26:39

 

If you remember, Jesus prayed this three times (Matthew 26:42 - 44).

 

Being a Christian does not mean all your problems go away.  In fact, it seems as if new issues arise because of our testimony for Christ.  But more so for leaders.

 

Paul is writing to his young disciple and exhorting him to join in Christ's sufferings for the Gospel.  Why?

 

"[God] has saved us and called us to a holy life."

 

There is so much we could unpack from this passage.  But think on this last point:

 

It is God's purpose in saving people to conform them to the image of Jesus... and that includes suffering.

"not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace."

 

Think on these things... it might change the way you see your circumstances.

The Value of Wisdom

Consider carefully the following passage from Proverbs.

 

Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,

the man who gains understanding,

for she is more profitable than silver

and yields better returns than gold.

She is more precious than rubies;

nothing you desire can compare with her.

Proverbs 3:13 - 15

 

Notice the way Solomon, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit conveys the worth of wisdom.  Please do not make the mistake that some have made in thinking that wisdom is solely a feminine trait.  Solomon was one of the wisest men in history.  In referring to wisdom as a female, he is drawing the readers' attention to the worth of a godly wife.  Later in this same Book, God instructs the human author to pen:

 

A wife of noble character who can find? 

She is worth far more than rubies.

Her husband has full confidence in her 

and lacks nothing of value.

Proverbs 31:10 - 11

 

Make no mistake about it... wisdom is worth it's weight in gold.  Ask Solomon... better yet:

 

Study what he wrote about the value of wisdom.

On our way to the Hood.

The Hood.

Here are a few pictures from our trip to the Hood.

(Mt. Hood)

Dani and the Izz

On the way to the Hood.

Dani and the kiddos making a snowboy.

Leading the Leadable.

After leaving Succoth they camped at Etham on the edge of the desert. By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.

Exodus 13:20 - 22

 

Imagine the sight as you and your fellow nation did something you never experienced... and never would again.

 

Imagine the awe as you followed a towering pillar of cloud during the day.

 

Imagine the heat the pillar of fire gave off at night.

 

What an amazing lesson for the children... what a great lesson for everyone.

 

It wasn't enough for the Lord to deliver Israel from the cruel bondage of Egypt.  It wasn't enough to (later) institute laws governing a nation that did not know how to govern itself.  The Lord led them:

 

He led them spiritually through His anointed leaders.

 

He led them morally through the issuing of the Law.

 

He led them physically in the pillars day and night.

 

God may not be leading you through the wilderness... He may not walk ahead of you in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire at night... but you can be sure of this:

 

He wants to lead you through whatever you are going through.

 

Friends... follow the deliverer.

 

My little Chicken :)