Date: October 28, 2010 8:00 PM
Topic: +DEV+ An Idolized Son
An Idolized Son
"'Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me'" (Matthew 10:37).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 37:1-10
Jacob was a God-fearing man, but he fell short as a father by idolizing his son. Genesis 37:3 reports that he "loved Joseph more than any of his other sons." The fact that he gave Joseph a richly ornamented robe confirmed his partiality to him.
Joseph's brothers could see that their father kept Joseph on a pedestal. They grew to despise Joseph. Eventually, the sibling rivalry reached a fever pitch when the brothers plotted to kill him but sold him into slavery. Only God's intervention and sovereign plan kept him alive and in time lifted him from prison to prominence.
While the story of Joseph points us to God's redeeming plan for His people and for us, we also take a lesson from Jacob's favoritism to one son. As parents we may elevate a child, too, giving him his way and treating him preferentially. Such "child-worship" brings not only family trouble but also God's deep displeasure. Let's seek fairness in all of our dealings, never neglecting to keep the high pedestal of our hearts for the Lord.
Insight: The parent who brings a child up the right way will neither defraud the child nor dishonor God.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
+DEV+ An Idolized Son
Date: October 28, 2010 8:00 PM
Topic: +DEV+ An Idolized Son
An Idolized Son
"'Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me'" (Matthew 10:37).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 37:1-10
Jacob was a God-fearing man, but he fell short as a father by idolizing his son. Genesis 37:3 reports that he "loved Joseph more than any of his other sons." The fact that he gave Joseph a richly ornamented robe confirmed his partiality to him.
Joseph's brothers could see that their father kept Joseph on a pedestal. They grew to despise Joseph. Eventually, the sibling rivalry reached a fever pitch when the brothers plotted to kill him but sold him into slavery. Only God's intervention and sovereign plan kept him alive and in time lifted him from prison to prominence.
While the story of Joseph points us to God's redeeming plan for His people and for us, we also take a lesson from Jacob's favoritism to one son. As parents we may elevate a child, too, giving him his way and treating him preferentially. Such "child-worship" brings not only family trouble but also God's deep displeasure. Let's seek fairness in all of our dealings, never neglecting to keep the high pedestal of our hearts for the Lord.
Insight: The parent who brings a child up the right way will neither defraud the child nor dishonor God.
Topic: +DEV+ An Idolized Son
An Idolized Son
"'Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me'" (Matthew 10:37).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 37:1-10
Jacob was a God-fearing man, but he fell short as a father by idolizing his son. Genesis 37:3 reports that he "loved Joseph more than any of his other sons." The fact that he gave Joseph a richly ornamented robe confirmed his partiality to him.
Joseph's brothers could see that their father kept Joseph on a pedestal. They grew to despise Joseph. Eventually, the sibling rivalry reached a fever pitch when the brothers plotted to kill him but sold him into slavery. Only God's intervention and sovereign plan kept him alive and in time lifted him from prison to prominence.
While the story of Joseph points us to God's redeeming plan for His people and for us, we also take a lesson from Jacob's favoritism to one son. As parents we may elevate a child, too, giving him his way and treating him preferentially. Such "child-worship" brings not only family trouble but also God's deep displeasure. Let's seek fairness in all of our dealings, never neglecting to keep the high pedestal of our hearts for the Lord.
Insight: The parent who brings a child up the right way will neither defraud the child nor dishonor God.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT
Since this came to me via a friend in South America there must be people all over the world participation.
ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT
ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT During WWII, there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every night at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England, its people and peace. This had an amazing effect as bombing stopped.
There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America .
If you would like to participate: each evening at 9:00 PM Eastern Time (8:00 PM Central, 7:00 PM Mountain, 6:00 PM Pacific), stop whatever you are doing and spend one minute praying for the up-coming election, and for the revival of Christianity in this great country.
If you know anyone who would like to participate, please pass this along.
Someone said if people really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have.
Thank You. Please pass this on to anyone who you think will want to join us
ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT
ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT During WWII, there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every night at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England, its people and peace. This had an amazing effect as bombing stopped.
There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America .
If you would like to participate: each evening at 9:00 PM Eastern Time (8:00 PM Central, 7:00 PM Mountain, 6:00 PM Pacific), stop whatever you are doing and spend one minute praying for the up-coming election, and for the revival of Christianity in this great country.
If you know anyone who would like to participate, please pass this along.
Someone said if people really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have.
Thank You. Please pass this on to anyone who you think will want to join us
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
+DEV+ Cover-Up
Date: October 26, 2010 11:11 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Cover-Up
Cover-Up
"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account" (Hebrews 4:13).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 31:25-35
Jacob fled from his father-in-law Laban, but Laban caught up with him where Jacob had set up camp. Laban was upset that Jacob had sneaked away before he could kiss his grandchildren and daughters good-by. But also someone had stolen his household idols. Jacob invited Laban to search the camp for them.
Ironically, Rachel had stolen them and hidden them in her camel's saddle. She was sitting on them when her father Laban searched her tent. It was a successful, but evil, cover-up.
Hardly a week passes without the news exposing the guilt of a corporate executive, politician, or investment broker. We smugly point to high-profile figures, thinking we ourselves would never do something like that. Yet all the while our own private "idols" are as nicely hidden as Rachel's were. We conceal our judgmental attitudes, pride, bitterness, love of self...all idols we cling to more tightly than we cling to the Lord.
Let's turn to Him and put Him on the throne.
Insight: Trying to cover our idols is as foolish as trying to hide tooth decay from a dentist's X-rays.
Topic: +DEV+ Cover-Up
Cover-Up
"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account" (Hebrews 4:13).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 31:25-35
Jacob fled from his father-in-law Laban, but Laban caught up with him where Jacob had set up camp. Laban was upset that Jacob had sneaked away before he could kiss his grandchildren and daughters good-by. But also someone had stolen his household idols. Jacob invited Laban to search the camp for them.
Ironically, Rachel had stolen them and hidden them in her camel's saddle. She was sitting on them when her father Laban searched her tent. It was a successful, but evil, cover-up.
Hardly a week passes without the news exposing the guilt of a corporate executive, politician, or investment broker. We smugly point to high-profile figures, thinking we ourselves would never do something like that. Yet all the while our own private "idols" are as nicely hidden as Rachel's were. We conceal our judgmental attitudes, pride, bitterness, love of self...all idols we cling to more tightly than we cling to the Lord.
Let's turn to Him and put Him on the throne.
Insight: Trying to cover our idols is as foolish as trying to hide tooth decay from a dentist's X-rays.
Monday, October 25, 2010
+DEV+ Sophisticated Idol Worshipers
Date: October 25, 2010 9:31 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Sophisticated Idol Worshipers
Sophisticated Idol Worshipers
"'But I took your father Abraham from the land beyond the River and led him throughout Canaan and gave him many descendants'" (Joshua 24:3a).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 11:27-12:6
Abraham, the Father of Israel and the friend of God, didn't always believe in God. When he lived in Ur of the Chaldeans, he worshiped idols, as did the other residents of that highly sophisticated city. Ancient Ur enjoyed advanced architecture and cultural attractions. Its houses were well constructed and even had indoor plumbing. Its large library was the envy of other cities; its beautiful harbor attracted avid boaters and fishermen. But spiritually, Ur was primitive and ignorant.
However, God revealed Himself to Abraham and commanded him to leave his city and homeland. Abraham obeyed, left his idols behind, and followed God's leading to Canaan.
Today we are not totally unlike the people of ancient Ur. Many of us enjoy comfortable homes but live in spiritual darkness. It becomes easy to trust in material possessions and money. But God can pluck people out of idolatry as surely as He plucked Abraham out of Ur, giving him a life of faith and a new direction.
Insight: A person may hold a PhD or an MBA, but he may also be completely ignorant of spiritual truth.
Topic: +DEV+ Sophisticated Idol Worshipers
Sophisticated Idol Worshipers
"'But I took your father Abraham from the land beyond the River and led him throughout Canaan and gave him many descendants'" (Joshua 24:3a).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 11:27-12:6
Abraham, the Father of Israel and the friend of God, didn't always believe in God. When he lived in Ur of the Chaldeans, he worshiped idols, as did the other residents of that highly sophisticated city. Ancient Ur enjoyed advanced architecture and cultural attractions. Its houses were well constructed and even had indoor plumbing. Its large library was the envy of other cities; its beautiful harbor attracted avid boaters and fishermen. But spiritually, Ur was primitive and ignorant.
However, God revealed Himself to Abraham and commanded him to leave his city and homeland. Abraham obeyed, left his idols behind, and followed God's leading to Canaan.
Today we are not totally unlike the people of ancient Ur. Many of us enjoy comfortable homes but live in spiritual darkness. It becomes easy to trust in material possessions and money. But God can pluck people out of idolatry as surely as He plucked Abraham out of Ur, giving him a life of faith and a new direction.
Insight: A person may hold a PhD or an MBA, but he may also be completely ignorant of spiritual truth.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
+DEV+ Idolatry Invades Planet Earth
Date: October 24, 2010 8:34 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Idolatry Invades Planet Earth
Idolatry Invades Planet Earth
"For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities;..." (Colossians 1:16).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 3:1-7
God placed Adam and Eve in an idyllic, tropical paradise. Life was good. Mosquitoes didn't bite. Flowers didn't wilt. Weeds didn't exist. Animals were tame. Sickness never occurred. Death never struck. Everything was perfect-until Satan sold Eve a bill of goods. He made her think God was unfair and dishonest. He caused her to doubt that God had restricted her and Adam from eating the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Although God had attached the death penalty to the prohibition, the serpent assured her she would not die if she ate it. Besides, he told her, the fruit would make her like God, "knowing good and evil" (Genesis 3:5).
Adam and Eve had elevated self-will above God's will, choosing to please themselves. They had become worshipers of self instead of God.
Genuine worship of God involves obedience. When going our own way contradicts God's way, we will face a dead end a dead end (Proverbs 14:12).
Insight: The devil is a master of the sneak attack. We need to stay alert.
Topic: +DEV+ Idolatry Invades Planet Earth
Idolatry Invades Planet Earth
"For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities;..." (Colossians 1:16).
Scripture Focus: Genesis 3:1-7
God placed Adam and Eve in an idyllic, tropical paradise. Life was good. Mosquitoes didn't bite. Flowers didn't wilt. Weeds didn't exist. Animals were tame. Sickness never occurred. Death never struck. Everything was perfect-until Satan sold Eve a bill of goods. He made her think God was unfair and dishonest. He caused her to doubt that God had restricted her and Adam from eating the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Although God had attached the death penalty to the prohibition, the serpent assured her she would not die if she ate it. Besides, he told her, the fruit would make her like God, "knowing good and evil" (Genesis 3:5).
Adam and Eve had elevated self-will above God's will, choosing to please themselves. They had become worshipers of self instead of God.
Genuine worship of God involves obedience. When going our own way contradicts God's way, we will face a dead end a dead end (Proverbs 14:12).
Insight: The devil is a master of the sneak attack. We need to stay alert.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
+DEV+ The Beginning of Idolatry
Date: October 21, 2010 11:41 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Beginning of Idolatry
The Beginning of Idolatry
"Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom" (Psalm 45:6).
Scripture Focus: Isaiah 14:12-15
We often refer to the President of the United States as the most powerful man on earth. He probably is, but he is not all-powerful, nor does he occupy an endless throne in the White House. He steps down from the presidency after four or eight years, and another person assumes that role.
Unlike the most powerful man on earth, God is all-powerful, reigning eternally from a throne in heaven. No one can usurp Him, though Lucifer, once a light-bearing angel, tried. He craved God's position of majesty and might. He wanted to be like God, receiving worship and dispensing orders to all of creation. However, his wicked scheme was doomed. God expelled him from heaven, and He will ultimately consign him to the Lake of Fire (see Isaiah 14:12, 15 and Revelation 20:10).
When tempted to demote God and exalt ourselves, let's remember that He is the Creator and we the created. Our lives are rich and full when we place them under the control of the One whose love, power, and throne are eternal.
Insight: Transfer of power is common in world politics, but thankfully God's power is non-transferable.
Topic: +DEV+ The Beginning of Idolatry
The Beginning of Idolatry
"Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom" (Psalm 45:6).
Scripture Focus: Isaiah 14:12-15
We often refer to the President of the United States as the most powerful man on earth. He probably is, but he is not all-powerful, nor does he occupy an endless throne in the White House. He steps down from the presidency after four or eight years, and another person assumes that role.
Unlike the most powerful man on earth, God is all-powerful, reigning eternally from a throne in heaven. No one can usurp Him, though Lucifer, once a light-bearing angel, tried. He craved God's position of majesty and might. He wanted to be like God, receiving worship and dispensing orders to all of creation. However, his wicked scheme was doomed. God expelled him from heaven, and He will ultimately consign him to the Lake of Fire (see Isaiah 14:12, 15 and Revelation 20:10).
When tempted to demote God and exalt ourselves, let's remember that He is the Creator and we the created. Our lives are rich and full when we place them under the control of the One whose love, power, and throne are eternal.
Insight: Transfer of power is common in world politics, but thankfully God's power is non-transferable.
+DEV+ Self-Confidence
Date: October 21, 2010 12:33 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Self-Confidence
Self-Confidence
"you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil" (James 4:15-16).
Scripture Focus: James 4
It would be a rare occasion, indeed, to hear a business person say, "If it's the Lord's will, we'll move ahead with this project." An unbelieving CEO wouldn't approach business that way. Sadly, many Christian CEO's wouldn't either. Truth be told, do I acknowledge the Lord before I march ahead with my daily plans? Most of us feel so confident about our own intentions that we begin to believe we are the ones in control. Our self-confidence becomes the pillar on which we stand.
James' letter speaks volumes to us about submitting ourselves to God rather than insisting on our own way. We quarrel with each other; we make friends with the world; we are proud and quick to speak against our brother. Imagine how far James, Jesus' sibling, had come in his walk of faith! After all, he grew up with a brother who, though perfect in behavior, seemed downright crazy at times (See Mark 3:20-21.) James urges Jesus' followers then as well as us now to let Christ be our pillar and to put our confidence in Him.
Insight: When we adopt God's plans, our hearts will ultimately find rest in His provision.
Topic: +DEV+ Self-Confidence
Self-Confidence
"you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil" (James 4:15-16).
Scripture Focus: James 4
It would be a rare occasion, indeed, to hear a business person say, "If it's the Lord's will, we'll move ahead with this project." An unbelieving CEO wouldn't approach business that way. Sadly, many Christian CEO's wouldn't either. Truth be told, do I acknowledge the Lord before I march ahead with my daily plans? Most of us feel so confident about our own intentions that we begin to believe we are the ones in control. Our self-confidence becomes the pillar on which we stand.
James' letter speaks volumes to us about submitting ourselves to God rather than insisting on our own way. We quarrel with each other; we make friends with the world; we are proud and quick to speak against our brother. Imagine how far James, Jesus' sibling, had come in his walk of faith! After all, he grew up with a brother who, though perfect in behavior, seemed downright crazy at times (See Mark 3:20-21.) James urges Jesus' followers then as well as us now to let Christ be our pillar and to put our confidence in Him.
Insight: When we adopt God's plans, our hearts will ultimately find rest in His provision.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
+DEV+ American Idol Hopefuls
Date: October 20, 2010 1:05 AM
Topic: +DEV+ American Idol Hopefuls
American Idol Hopefuls
"...That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Submit yourselves, then, to God" (James 4:6-7a).
Scripture Focus: Mark 10:35-45
They congregate by the thousands in major cities throughout the United States to audition for the TV show, "American Idol." Some sing like nightingales; others leave more to be desired! However, they all have one thing in common: a compelling desire to become the next "American Idol."
We can't ascribe a colossal ego to every contestant, but obviously many believe they are good enough to merit the fame and fortune that accompany the title, "American Idol." If ego without talent was enough, many would win.
Two disciples, James and John, asked Jesus to appoint them to the top "cabinet" positions in His future kingdom. But their ambition hit a wall when He informed them that God honors humility, not selfish ambition. According to Jesus, the way up in the kingdom is the way down. God honors service rather than self-aggrandizing.
Any one of us may have the talent to become the next "American Idol," but do we humbly serve others in Jesus' name? Pursue that instead.
Insight: Don't let your ego become so big that you may have to swallow it someday.
Topic: +DEV+ American Idol Hopefuls
American Idol Hopefuls
"...That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Submit yourselves, then, to God" (James 4:6-7a).
Scripture Focus: Mark 10:35-45
They congregate by the thousands in major cities throughout the United States to audition for the TV show, "American Idol." Some sing like nightingales; others leave more to be desired! However, they all have one thing in common: a compelling desire to become the next "American Idol."
We can't ascribe a colossal ego to every contestant, but obviously many believe they are good enough to merit the fame and fortune that accompany the title, "American Idol." If ego without talent was enough, many would win.
Two disciples, James and John, asked Jesus to appoint them to the top "cabinet" positions in His future kingdom. But their ambition hit a wall when He informed them that God honors humility, not selfish ambition. According to Jesus, the way up in the kingdom is the way down. God honors service rather than self-aggrandizing.
Any one of us may have the talent to become the next "American Idol," but do we humbly serve others in Jesus' name? Pursue that instead.
Insight: Don't let your ego become so big that you may have to swallow it someday.
Monday, October 18, 2010
+DEV+ Untrustworthy Idols
Date: October 18, 2010 11:02 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Untrustworthy Idols
Untrustworthy Idols
"O house of Israel, trust in the LORD - he is their help and shield. You who fear him, trust in the LORD - he is their help and shield" (Psalm 115:9, 11).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 115:1-11
Our economy has its ups and downs, often more downs than ups, but God's promises remain stable and reliable. He has promised to meet our daily needs. Though our financial institutions may go under, the Bank of Heaven will never fail. Therefore, our trust should be in God and in His Word.
Three times Psalm 115 identifies God as His people's help and shield and therefore worthy of their trust (vs. 9, 10, 11). It also depicts idols as the "work of men's hands" (vs. 4), incapable of speaking, seeing, hearing, smelling, handling, or walking. In other words, idols are untrustworthy.
Perhaps our shaky economy serves notice that money and material goods are nothing in which to put our trust. They don't see those who trust in them. Nor do they answer the cries of those who trust in them. They cannot handle personal crises or walk alongside their worshipers in the valley of despair. How vastly different is our God. He is personal and powerful. He is our "help and shield," and He invites us to trust in Him.
Insight: Time spent serving idols is idle time. But time spent worshiping and serving the Lord has eternal significance.
Topic: +DEV+ Untrustworthy Idols
Untrustworthy Idols
"O house of Israel, trust in the LORD - he is their help and shield. You who fear him, trust in the LORD - he is their help and shield" (Psalm 115:9, 11).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 115:1-11
Our economy has its ups and downs, often more downs than ups, but God's promises remain stable and reliable. He has promised to meet our daily needs. Though our financial institutions may go under, the Bank of Heaven will never fail. Therefore, our trust should be in God and in His Word.
Three times Psalm 115 identifies God as His people's help and shield and therefore worthy of their trust (vs. 9, 10, 11). It also depicts idols as the "work of men's hands" (vs. 4), incapable of speaking, seeing, hearing, smelling, handling, or walking. In other words, idols are untrustworthy.
Perhaps our shaky economy serves notice that money and material goods are nothing in which to put our trust. They don't see those who trust in them. Nor do they answer the cries of those who trust in them. They cannot handle personal crises or walk alongside their worshipers in the valley of despair. How vastly different is our God. He is personal and powerful. He is our "help and shield," and He invites us to trust in Him.
Insight: Time spent serving idols is idle time. But time spent worshiping and serving the Lord has eternal significance.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
+DEV+ American Idols
Date: October 17, 2010 9:38 PM
Topic: +DEV+ American Idols
American Idols
"...And we are in him who is true even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. Dear children, keep yourselves from idols" (1 John 5:20-21).
Scripture Focus: 1 John 5:13-21
In some cultures an idol is a statue or an image crafted from stone, wood or metal and regarded as an object of worship. It may resemble an animal, a mythical creature, or a human being. It may bear a name. The Hebrews strayed into the worship of idols resembling golden calves shortly after the true God had delivered them from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 32), and years later after the division of the United Kingdom (1 Kings 12:26-28).
But in a broader sense an idol is anything or anyone held in greater esteem than God. This definition brings the idea of having idols right into your own life and mine. We may never see anyone worship an actual statue, but esteeming someone or something more highly than God, is at times all too familiar. While some may value sports figures or Hollywood personalities, others may idolize a pastime, money, fame, or fortune. Many of our idols are hidden deep inside our hearts.
Genuine worship demands that we cast those idols aside and live for Him Who is true.
Insight: The throne of our hearts belongs to God. We dare not worship anything or anyone else.
Topic: +DEV+ American Idols
American Idols
"...And we are in him who is true even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. Dear children, keep yourselves from idols" (1 John 5:20-21).
Scripture Focus: 1 John 5:13-21
In some cultures an idol is a statue or an image crafted from stone, wood or metal and regarded as an object of worship. It may resemble an animal, a mythical creature, or a human being. It may bear a name. The Hebrews strayed into the worship of idols resembling golden calves shortly after the true God had delivered them from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 32), and years later after the division of the United Kingdom (1 Kings 12:26-28).
But in a broader sense an idol is anything or anyone held in greater esteem than God. This definition brings the idea of having idols right into your own life and mine. We may never see anyone worship an actual statue, but esteeming someone or something more highly than God, is at times all too familiar. While some may value sports figures or Hollywood personalities, others may idolize a pastime, money, fame, or fortune. Many of our idols are hidden deep inside our hearts.
Genuine worship demands that we cast those idols aside and live for Him Who is true.
Insight: The throne of our hearts belongs to God. We dare not worship anything or anyone else.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
+DEV+ He Remains the Same
Date: October 14, 2010 10:36 PM
Topic: +DEV+ He Remains the Same
He Remains the Same
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea" (Psalm 46:1-2).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 46
Winter gives way to spring; laughter turns to tears, parched earth changes to verdant growth after rain; childlessness yields to family; a calm sea becomes a storm. Some changes we welcome more than others. All of them serve to remind us that our Creator remains the same.
Martin Luther clung with all his life to that great truth: that God remained and His kingdom would be forever. Nearly 500 years ago on this very day, he posted on the cathedral doors in Wittenberg, Germany his 95 complaints against the medieval church. He sought to bring us back to the Scriptures and to make it clear how salvation was given. The words Luther wrote for the great hymn "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" were and still are a rallying cry for believers in Jesus Christ. We have focused this month on the implications of our constant change and God's forever remaining the same. Because we know the unchanging One, we can sing with Christians throughout history that "God's truth abideth still - His kingdom is forever."
Insight: "A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing...from age to age the same..." Martin Luther, 1529
Topic: +DEV+ He Remains the Same
He Remains the Same
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea" (Psalm 46:1-2).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 46
Winter gives way to spring; laughter turns to tears, parched earth changes to verdant growth after rain; childlessness yields to family; a calm sea becomes a storm. Some changes we welcome more than others. All of them serve to remind us that our Creator remains the same.
Martin Luther clung with all his life to that great truth: that God remained and His kingdom would be forever. Nearly 500 years ago on this very day, he posted on the cathedral doors in Wittenberg, Germany his 95 complaints against the medieval church. He sought to bring us back to the Scriptures and to make it clear how salvation was given. The words Luther wrote for the great hymn "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" were and still are a rallying cry for believers in Jesus Christ. We have focused this month on the implications of our constant change and God's forever remaining the same. Because we know the unchanging One, we can sing with Christians throughout history that "God's truth abideth still - His kingdom is forever."
Insight: "A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing...from age to age the same..." Martin Luther, 1529
+DEV+ We Shall All Be Changed
Date: October 14, 2010 1:20 AM
Topic: +DEV+ We Shall All Be Changed
We Shall All Be Changed
"We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed - in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound...and we will be changed" (1 Corinthians 15:51).
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
In an essay published in 1947, author J. R. R. Tolkein coined a new word: eucatastrophe. It means "a sudden, joyous turn of events." He said that the incarnation of Jesus Christ was the eucatastrophe of human history. It was "an unexpected but not unpredictable conclusion" of a great drama.
The apostle Paul explains in detail a sudden, joyous turn of events - a eucatastrophe! - that will come at the end of this world to those of us who have believed in Jesus Christ. In the twinkling of an eye, we will all be changed. Our human minds cannot even begin to comprehend what those changes will be. A little boy I know who is legally blind was excited to hear that in heaven he would not need his glasses, but then lamented that without them he wouldn't be able to see. How like him we are in our thoughts...limited about the magnitude of the joyous changes God will work in us in the last.
Mercifully, He is transforming our lives even now, changing us moment by moment to make us more like Him!
Insight: Do you have heaven on your mind? Do you anticipate greater things in the next life than in this one? Wait with hopeful joy!
Topic: +DEV+ We Shall All Be Changed
We Shall All Be Changed
"We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed - in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound...and we will be changed" (1 Corinthians 15:51).
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
In an essay published in 1947, author J. R. R. Tolkein coined a new word: eucatastrophe. It means "a sudden, joyous turn of events." He said that the incarnation of Jesus Christ was the eucatastrophe of human history. It was "an unexpected but not unpredictable conclusion" of a great drama.
The apostle Paul explains in detail a sudden, joyous turn of events - a eucatastrophe! - that will come at the end of this world to those of us who have believed in Jesus Christ. In the twinkling of an eye, we will all be changed. Our human minds cannot even begin to comprehend what those changes will be. A little boy I know who is legally blind was excited to hear that in heaven he would not need his glasses, but then lamented that without them he wouldn't be able to see. How like him we are in our thoughts...limited about the magnitude of the joyous changes God will work in us in the last.
Mercifully, He is transforming our lives even now, changing us moment by moment to make us more like Him!
Insight: Do you have heaven on your mind? Do you anticipate greater things in the next life than in this one? Wait with hopeful joy!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
+DEV+ Evil in the Eyes of the Lord
Date: October 13, 2010 1:03 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Evil in the Eyes of the Lord
Evil in the Eyes of the Lord
"And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom..." (2 Chronicles 33:13).
Scripture Focus: 2 Chronicles 33:1-13
Halloween is only a few days away. I am simply aghast at how glorified this dark, occult event has become. Spiritually speaking, it appears that we are still living in a world that is just as depraved as it was in the days of the kings of Israel.
Manasseh was a king who did evil in the eyes God. Because of his disobedience, he was captured by the Assyrians who dragged him into Babylonian captivity by putting a hook through his nose. Dreadful! While imprisoned as a slave, Manasseh realized that he needed to change his attitude. He saw that obeying God wasn't such a bad idea after all. Having already lost his kingdom, Manasseh cried out to God in his distress; God, Who is merciful, heard him.
I am encouraged by the fact that even in the midst of complete evil such as we see today, God is still at work and is still in charge. No matter how wicked a nation and its people become, God can change their attitudes and bring them into a place of right living.
Insight: What do you fear? Do you trust that nothing on, above or below earth can diminish who Christ is?
Topic: +DEV+ Evil in the Eyes of the Lord
Evil in the Eyes of the Lord
"And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom..." (2 Chronicles 33:13).
Scripture Focus: 2 Chronicles 33:1-13
Halloween is only a few days away. I am simply aghast at how glorified this dark, occult event has become. Spiritually speaking, it appears that we are still living in a world that is just as depraved as it was in the days of the kings of Israel.
Manasseh was a king who did evil in the eyes God. Because of his disobedience, he was captured by the Assyrians who dragged him into Babylonian captivity by putting a hook through his nose. Dreadful! While imprisoned as a slave, Manasseh realized that he needed to change his attitude. He saw that obeying God wasn't such a bad idea after all. Having already lost his kingdom, Manasseh cried out to God in his distress; God, Who is merciful, heard him.
I am encouraged by the fact that even in the midst of complete evil such as we see today, God is still at work and is still in charge. No matter how wicked a nation and its people become, God can change their attitudes and bring them into a place of right living.
Insight: What do you fear? Do you trust that nothing on, above or below earth can diminish who Christ is?
Monday, October 11, 2010
+DEV+ Refreshing Change
Date: October 11, 2010 8:24 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Refreshing Change
Refreshing Change
"One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty... he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" (Proverbs 11:24-25).
Scripture Focus: Galatians 6:7-10
Most of us have sought a change one time or another, hoping to cast a refreshing light on an otherwise discouraging situation. Nothing like a fresh coat of paint, an escape to the mountains, or a new outfit to brighten a room, to clear the mind, or to lift the spirits. But none of those changes lasts. The music fades; the vacation ends; the paint begins to look outdated.
The Lord built into us a wonderful way to find true refreshment: in refreshing others! The proverb gives us a principle that is completely contrary to the world's thinking. The world and our flesh tell us that if life gets you down, do something great for yourself. God's Word tells us to give freely of ourselves-be it through time or money or material things-for others and then see how God will refresh us in the process.
I have known this principle to be true, yet I wait with greater anticipation for the final refreshing when this life draws to a close. Then Jesus Christ, our Comforter, will refresh us thoroughly at last!
Insight: Feeling weary? Have you ever laid aside your own cares and looked to others'? Give a cup of cool water for someone else today.
Topic: +DEV+ Refreshing Change
Refreshing Change
"One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty... he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" (Proverbs 11:24-25).
Scripture Focus: Galatians 6:7-10
Most of us have sought a change one time or another, hoping to cast a refreshing light on an otherwise discouraging situation. Nothing like a fresh coat of paint, an escape to the mountains, or a new outfit to brighten a room, to clear the mind, or to lift the spirits. But none of those changes lasts. The music fades; the vacation ends; the paint begins to look outdated.
The Lord built into us a wonderful way to find true refreshment: in refreshing others! The proverb gives us a principle that is completely contrary to the world's thinking. The world and our flesh tell us that if life gets you down, do something great for yourself. God's Word tells us to give freely of ourselves-be it through time or money or material things-for others and then see how God will refresh us in the process.
I have known this principle to be true, yet I wait with greater anticipation for the final refreshing when this life draws to a close. Then Jesus Christ, our Comforter, will refresh us thoroughly at last!
Insight: Feeling weary? Have you ever laid aside your own cares and looked to others'? Give a cup of cool water for someone else today.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
+DEV+ Lump of Clay
Date: October 11, 2010 12:38 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Lump of Clay
Lump of Clay
"Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand" (Isaiah 64:8).
Scripture Focus: Jeremiah 18:1-6
Many of the changes that come about in our lives are not welcomed by us. If the lump of clay being kneaded by the potter could cry out, I am sure it would! Being molded and pressed and worked doesn't feel good. Yet if the lump of clay could know the stunning piece of artwork or the very useful water pitcher the artisan would create of it, perhaps he would keep silent. An audacious lump of clay that would be who would call out in defiance to the craftsman, the one who knows the shape he wants that clay to have.
There have been times of distress and hardship in my life that have hurt deeply. The process of getting through has pinched me, pressed me and pulled me in directions I didn't want to go. In my boldness I questioned the Lord's ways. Yet here I am today, His humbled vessel, filled up and spilled out time and time again in ways that have been able to give Him glory. Far be it from me to challenge the Master Craftsman, my Father and my Lord.
Insight: Have you also felt the pain of being molded? Do you believe that God's plans will work together for your good? Trust Him!
Topic: +DEV+ Lump of Clay
Lump of Clay
"Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand" (Isaiah 64:8).
Scripture Focus: Jeremiah 18:1-6
Many of the changes that come about in our lives are not welcomed by us. If the lump of clay being kneaded by the potter could cry out, I am sure it would! Being molded and pressed and worked doesn't feel good. Yet if the lump of clay could know the stunning piece of artwork or the very useful water pitcher the artisan would create of it, perhaps he would keep silent. An audacious lump of clay that would be who would call out in defiance to the craftsman, the one who knows the shape he wants that clay to have.
There have been times of distress and hardship in my life that have hurt deeply. The process of getting through has pinched me, pressed me and pulled me in directions I didn't want to go. In my boldness I questioned the Lord's ways. Yet here I am today, His humbled vessel, filled up and spilled out time and time again in ways that have been able to give Him glory. Far be it from me to challenge the Master Craftsman, my Father and my Lord.
Insight: Have you also felt the pain of being molded? Do you believe that God's plans will work together for your good? Trust Him!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
+DEV+ A New Spirit
Date: October 7, 2010 10:09 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A New Spirit
A New Spirit
"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory" (Colossians 3:3-4).
Scripture Focus: Ezekiel 36:24-27
One evening at a doctor appointment, God let me eavesdrop on a miracle in progress. A once-quiet exam room next to mine suddenly erupted into a frenzy of excited voices and hurried footsteps. I learned that the man in the room beside mine was a candidate for a heart transplant, and a donor had finally become available. What a change he was about to experience!
For the rest of the evening, my thoughts returned to him. I contemplated how he was being given a second chance at life because somewhere nearby, a life had just ended. The medical world and the generous gift of a total stranger had combined to offer him a miracle.
Similarly, God has offered us the gift of life. We were already dead in our sins when He sent His Son to restore us. And ultimately in Jesus' death we would be given the opportunity to live. We're like the young woman receiving a new set of lungs. Our names have been called. God's promises have been fulfilled, and new life in Christ is ours for the taking.
Insight: Do you have the assurance of salvation? Is salvation something we can earn? How does new life give you hope?
Topic: +DEV+ A New Spirit
A New Spirit
"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory" (Colossians 3:3-4).
Scripture Focus: Ezekiel 36:24-27
One evening at a doctor appointment, God let me eavesdrop on a miracle in progress. A once-quiet exam room next to mine suddenly erupted into a frenzy of excited voices and hurried footsteps. I learned that the man in the room beside mine was a candidate for a heart transplant, and a donor had finally become available. What a change he was about to experience!
For the rest of the evening, my thoughts returned to him. I contemplated how he was being given a second chance at life because somewhere nearby, a life had just ended. The medical world and the generous gift of a total stranger had combined to offer him a miracle.
Similarly, God has offered us the gift of life. We were already dead in our sins when He sent His Son to restore us. And ultimately in Jesus' death we would be given the opportunity to live. We're like the young woman receiving a new set of lungs. Our names have been called. God's promises have been fulfilled, and new life in Christ is ours for the taking.
Insight: Do you have the assurance of salvation? Is salvation something we can earn? How does new life give you hope?
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
+DEV+ Noisy Nature
Date: October 6, 2010 9:22 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Noisy Nature
Noisy Nature
"'Would you discredit my justice?...Do you have an arm like God's, and can your voice thunder like his'" (Job 40:8-9)?
Scripture Focus: Psalm 19:1-11
June 25, 2007, was an exciting day for NASA and the crew of the shuttle, Atlantis, as my friend recounted. “The sky was beautifully clear, so I could witness Atlantis flying right over. As soon as I heard the sonic booms, I knew exactly where to look in the sky. A thin white trail represented the shuttle's change from a place with no atmosphere to Earth's atmosphere.”
There's something awesome about the power of those twin sonic booms. It makes me wonder what it must have been like when God's voice spread across the expanse of space and spoke the universe into being. A sonic boom is impossible to ignore. The force driving it causes the sound barrier to be broken and elicits an unmistakable noise.
God's voice is unmistakable. He calls to us, reminding us that He is truly awesome. We may not always understand what He is doing or why. There are times when the beauty and perfection of God's plan for our lives is not understandable until it has been completed in us. In all things, He is marvelous and worthy to be praised.
Insight: What changes in your life are hard? Do you enjoy hearing God's voice? What evidence of God's power have you seen?
Topic: +DEV+ Noisy Nature
Noisy Nature
"'Would you discredit my justice?...Do you have an arm like God's, and can your voice thunder like his'" (Job 40:8-9)?
Scripture Focus: Psalm 19:1-11
June 25, 2007, was an exciting day for NASA and the crew of the shuttle, Atlantis, as my friend recounted. “The sky was beautifully clear, so I could witness Atlantis flying right over. As soon as I heard the sonic booms, I knew exactly where to look in the sky. A thin white trail represented the shuttle's change from a place with no atmosphere to Earth's atmosphere.”
There's something awesome about the power of those twin sonic booms. It makes me wonder what it must have been like when God's voice spread across the expanse of space and spoke the universe into being. A sonic boom is impossible to ignore. The force driving it causes the sound barrier to be broken and elicits an unmistakable noise.
God's voice is unmistakable. He calls to us, reminding us that He is truly awesome. We may not always understand what He is doing or why. There are times when the beauty and perfection of God's plan for our lives is not understandable until it has been completed in us. In all things, He is marvelous and worthy to be praised.
Insight: What changes in your life are hard? Do you enjoy hearing God's voice? What evidence of God's power have you seen?
+DEV+ God's Call to Change
Date: October 6, 2010 1:53 AM
Topic: +DEV+ God's Call to Change
God's Call to Change
"Whom have I in heaven but you? And being with you, I desire nothing on earth...God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever" (Psalm 73:25-26).
Scripture Focus: Jeremiah 7:1-7
Sometimes the hardest part about change is our dealing with our attitudes. We may say we want change, but when it comes right down to it, it's far easier to forgo change and just keep things as they are. This is something I struggle with greatly, especially when the calendar changes from December to January. I tell myself I'm going to change certain things about my behavior, but come February my weak will has already taken me back to old familiar bad habits. The problem is that I don't actively change my way of thinking.
It's not enough to simply desire change in our hearts. We have to base the changes on the knowledge that God expects us to change. Unless we realign our way of thinking, we can't alter our behavior. We need to take God's commands and laws seriously, writing them on the tablets of our heart so that they are constantly with us. The more we learn about God, His laws and His will, the more we will develop our internal desire to make the right kind of changes in our lives.
Insight: Are God's Laws Familiar To You? Is Your Desire To Be Obedient Or To Be Complacent? What Changes Do You Hope To Make?
Topic: +DEV+ God's Call to Change
God's Call to Change
"Whom have I in heaven but you? And being with you, I desire nothing on earth...God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever" (Psalm 73:25-26).
Scripture Focus: Jeremiah 7:1-7
Sometimes the hardest part about change is our dealing with our attitudes. We may say we want change, but when it comes right down to it, it's far easier to forgo change and just keep things as they are. This is something I struggle with greatly, especially when the calendar changes from December to January. I tell myself I'm going to change certain things about my behavior, but come February my weak will has already taken me back to old familiar bad habits. The problem is that I don't actively change my way of thinking.
It's not enough to simply desire change in our hearts. We have to base the changes on the knowledge that God expects us to change. Unless we realign our way of thinking, we can't alter our behavior. We need to take God's commands and laws seriously, writing them on the tablets of our heart so that they are constantly with us. The more we learn about God, His laws and His will, the more we will develop our internal desire to make the right kind of changes in our lives.
Insight: Are God's Laws Familiar To You? Is Your Desire To Be Obedient Or To Be Complacent? What Changes Do You Hope To Make?
Monday, October 4, 2010
+DEV+ Changing the Routine
Date: October 4, 2010 10:08 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Changing the Routine
Changing the Routine
"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 122
When my wife and I married, we moved to a new state where we became members of a different church family. The transition was difficult. The hardest part of joining with a new body of believers was just that-it was different.
I knew I needed to attend church, but something inside kept me from welcoming this new change in my spiritual life. For several months I set my jaw and went to church out of obligation and routine.
Routine isn't necessarily a bad thing. After all, our God is a God of order and not chaos, and a well-established routine can bring about order and peace.
The same can be said of using routine to develop our relationships with God. God commands us to go to church so that we can learn about Him and how He is working in the lives of other Christians. Going to church out of habit still gives us an opportunity to spend time with God. His grace abounds though our hearts are defiant. We must not give up meeting together with others, even if it means the routine has to change a little bit.
Insight: Do you tend to stick to a routine? How do you develop your relationship with God? Do you ever feel like church is a habit?
Topic: +DEV+ Changing the Routine
Changing the Routine
"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 122
When my wife and I married, we moved to a new state where we became members of a different church family. The transition was difficult. The hardest part of joining with a new body of believers was just that-it was different.
I knew I needed to attend church, but something inside kept me from welcoming this new change in my spiritual life. For several months I set my jaw and went to church out of obligation and routine.
Routine isn't necessarily a bad thing. After all, our God is a God of order and not chaos, and a well-established routine can bring about order and peace.
The same can be said of using routine to develop our relationships with God. God commands us to go to church so that we can learn about Him and how He is working in the lives of other Christians. Going to church out of habit still gives us an opportunity to spend time with God. His grace abounds though our hearts are defiant. We must not give up meeting together with others, even if it means the routine has to change a little bit.
Insight: Do you tend to stick to a routine? How do you develop your relationship with God? Do you ever feel like church is a habit?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
+DEV+ Breaking the Mold
Date: October 3, 2010 10:20 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Breaking the Mold
Breaking the Mold
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test... what God's will is" (Romans 12:2).
Scripture Focus: Romans 12:1-2
One of the many things I learned in life is that not all people who claim to be Christians do a very good job of separating themselves from the rest of the world. The so-called friends whom I thought would be supportive of my relationship with God, turned out to be the ones who impeded my walk with Him the most. Daily I was reminded that conformity was much easier than self-sacrifice. Sadly, there are even some churches that fail to resist conformity. Dr. Michael Horton's book “Christless Christianity” details exactly that.
How can we possible change the world for the better? First, we need to be available to God. This means getting rid of that which competes with Him for our attention. Secondly, we must confess that we are sinners, unable to change ourselves without God's intervention. Finally, live in obedience, going against the grain of popular opinion. As we walk through these steps on a regular basis, breaking out of the mold that the world wants for us, God brings us into a right relationship with Him.
Insight: What Are The Downfalls Of Conformity? Have You Ever Decided To Conform Rather Than Stand Alone? What Blessing Is There To Renewing The Mind?
Topic: +DEV+ Breaking the Mold
Breaking the Mold
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test... what God's will is" (Romans 12:2).
Scripture Focus: Romans 12:1-2
One of the many things I learned in life is that not all people who claim to be Christians do a very good job of separating themselves from the rest of the world. The so-called friends whom I thought would be supportive of my relationship with God, turned out to be the ones who impeded my walk with Him the most. Daily I was reminded that conformity was much easier than self-sacrifice. Sadly, there are even some churches that fail to resist conformity. Dr. Michael Horton's book “Christless Christianity” details exactly that.
How can we possible change the world for the better? First, we need to be available to God. This means getting rid of that which competes with Him for our attention. Secondly, we must confess that we are sinners, unable to change ourselves without God's intervention. Finally, live in obedience, going against the grain of popular opinion. As we walk through these steps on a regular basis, breaking out of the mold that the world wants for us, God brings us into a right relationship with Him.
Insight: What Are The Downfalls Of Conformity? Have You Ever Decided To Conform Rather Than Stand Alone? What Blessing Is There To Renewing The Mind?
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