A new year sets in, and I find myself doing the same thing I do every year - setting personal goals and making lists of things to finally get done. Each year the list is similar - sometimes more hefty than others, but always leaning towars over doing it - finish that entire list of Christian books I have not yet gotten to, read through the Bible twice this year, memorize a book of the Bible, write in my journal daily, pray three times a day, etc. Somewhere in my planning something is lost, and even as I begin implementing my well-thought out plans, I know deep down they have the scent of failure. I know this because I have done this before. Some say "it is better to try and fail than fail to try", and so I keep planning.
In the past when I have failedto consistently implement these plans, I tell myself - if I could only devote all my time to reading the scripture, praying, memorzing, meditating, THEN I would be changed. THEN I would be made new in rapid fashion - metamorphosizing into the Christian wife, mother and woman I want to be. I just need more time, less distraction, less responsibilities.
"Happy is the land whose king is a nobleman and whose leaders feast only to gain strength for their work, not to get drunk." ~Ecclesiastes 10:17
This type of thinking - the one that suggests a life surrounded by Godly things will make me more Godly, is not biblical at all. When I yearn for seclusion with God, I am a leader choosing to get drunk. I want a full meal every time - the cups overflowing with the fruit of the true Vine - but so much knowledge only gets me lazy and intoxicated with God. It does not make disciples. It does not fish for men. It does not make new. I am comfortable and know the right answers, but I am unchanged. Instead, I need to be a leader who eats just enough for the battle - who nourishes thier soul long enough to work another day. I need to soak in only that which can be digested in one sitting - that which fills the inner parts of my body with spiritual vitamins of joy, peace, and encouragement. Rather than trying to do it all - maybe a piece at a time is a better approach? I also need to push myself away from the table - to take on the rest of my day - not leaving God behind, but bringing Him with me. I can't spend my time lying down drunk on the knowledge and love of God and not share it with others. Those responsibilites, challenges and duties of the day-to-day life that at times I am so eager to shed in order to be able to focus more on God are not obstacles! You see, they are not a distraction from God, but an opportunity He has given me to make me grow, to reach others for Christ, to be a light in this dark world!
So I am going to set aside some of my godly ambitions this year. Don't get me wrong - it is important to read your Bible! It is important to pray regularly! Scripture memorization can be life that sustains you! But setting human goals to accomplish all of this makes it duty, not joy. Makes it purpose, not pleasure. Makes it my work, not God's. At the end of a year based on those ambitions (my own ambitions), I might be tired, weak, and unchanged. However, at the end of a year of tasteful bites that I have savored, God may have developed my taste buds. He may change me in a way that makes no other meal satisfy than one given by Him alone. And THAT is what I yearn for. To be completely changed - made new through the power of Christ, and not by my own strength.
Oh Lord, develop my tastebuds for you so that only your word can satisfy. Teach my muscles to move only through your strength and my heart to be driven by your will and compassion. ~ Karen
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Interlaced
Our new little blessing was born just 10 days ago. This picture was taken just seconds after he was born. Notice how his fingers are interlaced with one another. The nurse said she had never seen that before. I marveled at this little miracle, and wondered about the man he will become.
His hands foreshadowed the interlocking of our lives, woven together over time and shared with one another intimately. Sometimes the fingers slide seamlessly together, interlocking in unity and love. Other times, the fingers may chafe each other, unable to find their perfect fit. How will this little one's hands fit into the fabric of our family? Will he find peace and comfort and security? His little hands fold as if in prayer, and I pray with him.
Many years ago, another child was born, and He too would foreshadow an interlocking of life. His hands would hold the power to heal, and to comfort. They would intertwine with those who believed in Him. His hands would fold in prayer to His Heavenly Father, and beg for the cup to be taken from Him. His palms would be pierced, and arms spread wide across a wooden post. He did not find peace and comfort and security.
Yet his hands still beg us to come, to interlock our lives with Him - to be united with a Heavenly family. As we lace our fingers into His hands - the ones with the scars of eternal love etched into their palms - we find peace, comfort and security. We find our Family. We find our Father. We are born again.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Surrender
I remember it clearly. Her warm body, lying on my stomach. She had been placed there seconds ago, but as I gazed down, I could only see the back of her head and her shoulders. I had been waiting for this child, this daughter that I began to know in my womb over the last nine months, and here she was. She entered the world, and I longed to see her. I asked the nurse, "Can I move her?" - not knowing what to do as a first-time mom, scared that I would somehow injure her. The nurse looked back at me and lovingly replied, "Of course you can, She's yours!". She's mine. She's mine. The words gravitated deep down into my soul. This child was mine - a gift from God, and she was mine. But more than that, I was responsible for this new life - her happiness at that moment was dependent upon me. The task seemed so great, and my experience so small.
I look at her now at six years old, and there are days when I have to repeat - She's mine. Mine to guide, mine to protect. The thing that strikes me to my core now though, is not the idea that she belongs to me, but the fact that I belong to her. I am the mother that she will model her motherhood after. My life explains to her how a Christian woman should walk with Christ. My shortcomings reveal to her that it is ok to make mistakes. My words show her how to express emotions, and how to build or tear down relationships.
I thought the first few days were hard - a newborn that I had no idea how to care for. These days are much harder. Willl I ever become the woman I want her to be? If I never get there, how will she? The answer comes in the quiet, when I fall back on my knees and disclose all that I am lacking to my Heavenly Father. He reassures me that she doesn't need to see a perfect mother - she needs to see a perfect God. And somewhere in the stillness, in the aching for renewal, I remember this truth: "God is most glorified when I am most satisfied in Him." His perfection is revealed most gloriously when I am surrendered - fully surrendered to Him. While striving to be that "woman", my daughter focuses more on my struggles, but if I let go, she sees Him.
Lord, help me to let go - to turn to your word, to your voice, to your will, instead of mine. Help me to surrender my children to your care, so that they may know you more. Help my voice be small and gentle. May your glorious perfection be revealed in a woman fully surrendered. Amen.
I look at her now at six years old, and there are days when I have to repeat - She's mine. Mine to guide, mine to protect. The thing that strikes me to my core now though, is not the idea that she belongs to me, but the fact that I belong to her. I am the mother that she will model her motherhood after. My life explains to her how a Christian woman should walk with Christ. My shortcomings reveal to her that it is ok to make mistakes. My words show her how to express emotions, and how to build or tear down relationships.
I thought the first few days were hard - a newborn that I had no idea how to care for. These days are much harder. Willl I ever become the woman I want her to be? If I never get there, how will she? The answer comes in the quiet, when I fall back on my knees and disclose all that I am lacking to my Heavenly Father. He reassures me that she doesn't need to see a perfect mother - she needs to see a perfect God. And somewhere in the stillness, in the aching for renewal, I remember this truth: "God is most glorified when I am most satisfied in Him." His perfection is revealed most gloriously when I am surrendered - fully surrendered to Him. While striving to be that "woman", my daughter focuses more on my struggles, but if I let go, she sees Him.
Lord, help me to let go - to turn to your word, to your voice, to your will, instead of mine. Help me to surrender my children to your care, so that they may know you more. Help my voice be small and gentle. May your glorious perfection be revealed in a woman fully surrendered. Amen.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Due Date
I have been waiting, anticipating this day. The last nine months of hopeful excitement anticipating the new child in our family, and worry and concern that everything in the pregnancy goes well. It really is a long time – nine months. The day has arrived – my due date, and I am still awaiting this miracle.
She waited too, only her wait was much longer than 9 months. She suffered the aching, yearning for a child that lasted years. Through tests, doctors visits, answers that provided more questions than hope, and finally the realization that the best way for them to have a family would have to be through adoption. Even that process was long, and personal. Never sure of what the outcome would be.
I feel uncomfortable, aware of the baby lying low in my pelvic bone. I toss and turn at night, unable to find rest. It is hard for me to breathe – the baby now big enough to crowd my lungs. Contractions start and stop, at times teasing me that perhaps today is the day. When will the day of birth come?
She felt defeated, unable to lay hold of the dream of a child, and subject to the whim of a birth mother, or the agency in placing a child in their arms. It would keep her up at night. It was hard for her to breathe – anticipating, always waiting, always wondering. Her muscles contracted when she cried. Tears of anticipation, and tears of frustration. When would her baby’s due date come?
The hope of a child – as real as life itself. Two mothers, two generations.
She receives a call – twins. Not one child, but two – more than she had dared to hope for. God answered her pleas, but surpassed her expectations. He provided for her above and beyond her requests. Her heart leaps with joy and assurance in His provision. The babies arrive safely, and meld into the family unit. A complete family. A living, breathing reminder of God’s grace.
I await that moment – it will be different for me. I was the baby She had longed for. My twin brother and I filled the heart of a woman longing to give love to a tiny person crafted by God. The child in my womb is the grandchild – loved and conceived out of God’s grace and mercy to parents who don’t deserve such a miracle, but hope for one nonetheless. And God delivers. He heaps His blessings upon our family – not just fulfilling them, but surpassing them. We give thanks.
Ephesians 3:14-21:
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen. “
She waited too, only her wait was much longer than 9 months. She suffered the aching, yearning for a child that lasted years. Through tests, doctors visits, answers that provided more questions than hope, and finally the realization that the best way for them to have a family would have to be through adoption. Even that process was long, and personal. Never sure of what the outcome would be.
I feel uncomfortable, aware of the baby lying low in my pelvic bone. I toss and turn at night, unable to find rest. It is hard for me to breathe – the baby now big enough to crowd my lungs. Contractions start and stop, at times teasing me that perhaps today is the day. When will the day of birth come?
She felt defeated, unable to lay hold of the dream of a child, and subject to the whim of a birth mother, or the agency in placing a child in their arms. It would keep her up at night. It was hard for her to breathe – anticipating, always waiting, always wondering. Her muscles contracted when she cried. Tears of anticipation, and tears of frustration. When would her baby’s due date come?
The hope of a child – as real as life itself. Two mothers, two generations.
She receives a call – twins. Not one child, but two – more than she had dared to hope for. God answered her pleas, but surpassed her expectations. He provided for her above and beyond her requests. Her heart leaps with joy and assurance in His provision. The babies arrive safely, and meld into the family unit. A complete family. A living, breathing reminder of God’s grace.
I await that moment – it will be different for me. I was the baby She had longed for. My twin brother and I filled the heart of a woman longing to give love to a tiny person crafted by God. The child in my womb is the grandchild – loved and conceived out of God’s grace and mercy to parents who don’t deserve such a miracle, but hope for one nonetheless. And God delivers. He heaps His blessings upon our family – not just fulfilling them, but surpassing them. We give thanks.
Ephesians 3:14-21:
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen. “
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Slow Seconds
His head rests gently over my shoulder, his shoulder curving around my neck. The arm on the outside of his body drapes over my shoulder and I can feel his fingertips brush the back of my arm. My neck fits snuggly, like his body was created to be cradled. I rest my head on his head. He breathes deeply. He had come over and lifted his chubby little arms up to me, his eyes bright with expectation. I could tell he knew I would lift him up. I would hold him despite being uncomfortably 39 weeks pregnant. I would hold him despite not feeling well. I would hold him even though it is 2 hours past his bedtime, and I am ready to be resting. I would hold him because today, our friends buried their 7 month old, and they will never be able to hold him again. I snuggled him close to me, and felt the warmth of his back. My hand hesitated to feel him breathe - that breath of life - another day God has given us with this precious treasure. I couldn't hold back my tears. Tears of grief for that family, and tears of joy for my child. He lifted his head and drew both arms around my neck in one big hug. Too little to understand, and yet demonstrating love so perfectly.
I pray for one more day with this child. I pray that I am awakened to actually live in the moment, to cherish the times we have, and to let go of the dishes, baths, laundry and meals. I pray that I notice the small moments, the tender kiss of a child, the relentless requests for assistance because they think I can do anything. I pray that I bring them up to love the Lord. I pray that I am as strong of a witness to God's grace and mercy as that mother was today in all of her pain and anguish. May I love these children more because I know we are given precious seconds, and each second matters in the building and living of a life. May these seconds be slow - slow enough to treasure, slow enough to savor, slow enough to see. To really see.
I pray for one more day with this child. I pray that I am awakened to actually live in the moment, to cherish the times we have, and to let go of the dishes, baths, laundry and meals. I pray that I notice the small moments, the tender kiss of a child, the relentless requests for assistance because they think I can do anything. I pray that I bring them up to love the Lord. I pray that I am as strong of a witness to God's grace and mercy as that mother was today in all of her pain and anguish. May I love these children more because I know we are given precious seconds, and each second matters in the building and living of a life. May these seconds be slow - slow enough to treasure, slow enough to savor, slow enough to see. To really see.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Meaning to Life?
I walk upon this earthly ground
And seldom ponder life
That we should all come once by birth
And then to one day die.
What is this middle ground here for?
That chasm ‘tween birth and death?
A fraction of time, a group of seconds
Until eternal rest.
Should I say what skeptics say,
that this is all there is?
Or should I look to human kind
To explain this vast abyss?
Can a God out there exist who finds
Pure joy in knowing me?
And what does that imply for life
And all humanity?
I don’t think I like this questioning,
These thoughts of life and death
It’s easier to live inside my box,
That doesn’t ponder eternal rest.
But if I ignore that it exists,
It does not go away,
In fact the day grows closer still
That I begin decay.
So should I think about these things,
And decide what I want to be true,
For deep inside I know that I
Was meant to live for you.
Ok, so this poem is not about me, but I wanted to write something about someone who was struggling with the polar opposite views the world has to offer:
1. Meaning in life is only what we decide to create out of ourselves
-or-
2. Meaning in life exists for us to find - a truth that has to be accepted or uncovered.
Thanks be to God that I know the Truth, and it has set me free! ~Karen
And seldom ponder life
That we should all come once by birth
And then to one day die.
What is this middle ground here for?
That chasm ‘tween birth and death?
A fraction of time, a group of seconds
Until eternal rest.
Should I say what skeptics say,
that this is all there is?
Or should I look to human kind
To explain this vast abyss?
Can a God out there exist who finds
Pure joy in knowing me?
And what does that imply for life
And all humanity?
I don’t think I like this questioning,
These thoughts of life and death
It’s easier to live inside my box,
That doesn’t ponder eternal rest.
But if I ignore that it exists,
It does not go away,
In fact the day grows closer still
That I begin decay.
So should I think about these things,
And decide what I want to be true,
For deep inside I know that I
Was meant to live for you.
Ok, so this poem is not about me, but I wanted to write something about someone who was struggling with the polar opposite views the world has to offer:
1. Meaning in life is only what we decide to create out of ourselves
-or-
2. Meaning in life exists for us to find - a truth that has to be accepted or uncovered.
Thanks be to God that I know the Truth, and it has set me free! ~Karen
Monday, April 12, 2010
Pleasing God (Part Two - Knowing God)
Colossians 1:9-12
"For this reason we also, from the day we heard about you have not ceased praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may live worthily of the Lord and please him in all respects - bearing fruit in every good deed, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might for the display of all patience and steadfastness, joyfully giving thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light."
We looked at this scripture last week and determined that according to Paul in his letter to the church in Colossae, God is pleased when:
*We bear fruit
*We grow in knowledge
*We rely on His Strength, showing patience and steadfastness
*We joyfully give thanks to God
We discussed bearing fruit and now we can move on to "growing in the knowledge of God".....
Wow. Where do we start with this? Clearly, I am not a biblical scholar. My knowledge of God comes primarily through scripture and my relationship with him (and the Holy Spirit since the Bible states that the Holy Spirit teaches us wisdom). I do not claim to be wise, and I don't have time at this season of my life to research and write a novel on the idea of knowing God, or growing in the knowledge of God. Therefore, I will just expand on that which I was mulling over related to this scripture and the concept of Knowing God.
Paul writes in Philippians 3:8 "What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ". Since it appears to suggest that our lives do not have any meaning when we do not know Christ, it must be pretty important. The question is, what does Knowing God mean?
Knowing God Vs. Knowing Of God
Have you ever had a conversation with someone and they ask, "Do you know Sally? You know, her parents are Mark and Peggy. They live over on Maple Drive?" To which you may respond, "Oh, sure I know her." What are you really saying? Are you saying you know Sally in the sense that you know your spouse? Or are you saying you know of her? Clearly, you are saying you know about her, but you really don't know her at all. If someone said they knew you after only having met you 10 minutes ago, would you be slightly bothered by that statement? I would. How could anyone presume to really know me after just ten superficial minutes of conversation? I think I am much more complex than ten minutes of conversation might suggest. These examples bring us to a few main points:
The depth that you can really know someone is limited by the willingness of the other party to disclose information about themselves to you.
Ever tried to get to know someone who wouldn't reciprocate the sharing of information? It is very difficult to establish a connection if the other party will not open up to you. The depth that you get to know them would be very shallow. In essence, you would not be able to say that you knew them, because you really know nothing about them. Even though you may have spent time together, it was not times of sharing, but just one sided. If another party will not allow you to learn about them, you will never understand who they are. It is the same way with God. If God does not disclose himself to you, you cannot begin to know Him. J.I. Packer writes in his book, Knowing God "The width of our knowledge about him [God] is no gauge of the depth of our knowledge of him". In other words, we can know a lot about him - we can study and memorize scripture to no end, but it doesn't mean we know God, it just means we know about him.
It takes time to truly get to know someone
Ever met someone and assumed you knew them only to find out that who you thought they are is completely different from who they now appear to be? We share ourselves gradually, over time. We develop relationships gradually, gaining understanding of one another. In order to get to know each other, we must spend time getting to know each other. That is one of the things that is so important about prayer. We must spend time with the God of this Universe, talking to Him if we want to get to know him. The lack of conversation with Him or reading his word will have us draw false conclusions that are built on our presumed knowledge, not on true knowledge uncovered through spending time with God.
It takes a personal relationship
Getting to know someone requires both parties to be involved. Just as you are uncovering and understanding the other party, the other party is establishing a relationship with you. It is a relationship that must be built on trust and honesty if it is to develop true knowledge of each person involved. How can we trust someone we do not know? If someone read a biography about my life, they might know a lot about me, but they would not truly know me at all. In order for them to know me, we must have a personal relationship. If someone says something false about me, a friend with a personal relationship might be able to defend me by saying, "I know Karen, and that does not sound like something she would do." That friend can justify her point of view because she actually knows me well enough to assume certain behaviors from me. In the same way, we need a personal relationship with God in order to discern his will in our lives - how he would have us respond to certain situations, what he would have us invest our time in, etc.
It involves more than just intelligence
You can't only intellectually get to know someone within a personal relationship. When someone really knows you, they are emotionally connected and have a general concern for their good will. Packer writes, "They [two parties in a relationship] have identified themselves with, and so are personally and emotionally involved in, each other's concerns. They feel for each other, as well as thinking of each other. This is an essential aspect of the knowledge which friends have of each other; and the same applies to the Christian's knowledge of God." If we don’t have emotion behind a relationship - if it is only intellectual, it is hard to argue that there is any relationship at all. Now before you start to get nervous that I am suggesting that we should know God based on our flighty emotions - that is not what I am saying at all. But it is true that when we are part of a real relationship, we tend to emotionally care about the other's welfare and those things that are important to the other person. We should be the same way if we have a relationship with God. "Believers rejoice when their God is honored and vindicated and feel the acutest distress when they see God flouted."
Knowing God involves Grace
In order for us to develop a deep, true relationship with God, we must come to terms with the truth of who we are. It is not as important that we know God, but that we know that He knows us. Obviously, we intellectually know that the Bible states that God is omniscient or all-knowing. We know intellectually that God knows us, but we don't really know within our spirit that God knows everything about us and loves us anyway. We have to begin to acknowledge and disclose the truth about who we are to God, so that there is room for his grace to work in our lives. In the same way that we may know about God, and not really know him, God may know about us, but not really know us. Thus the mystery of Matthew 7:22-23 "Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me you evildoers!'" For God to know us, it means that there is an intimate relationship. It is not a factual based knowledge, but a sovereign-grace based knowledge, pointing to God's initiative in loving, choosing, redeeming, calling and preserving us. It is the meaning described in passages like the following "And the Lord said to Moses, 'I am pleased with you and I know you by name' (Ex 33:17). "Before I formed you [Jeremiah] in the womb, I knew you, before you were born, I set you apart" (Jer 1:5) "I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me....and I lay down my life for my sheep....my sheep hear my voice; I know them....shall never perish (Jn 10:14-15, 27-28). Here we see that when God says he knows us, it is implying a saving grace, a redemption, personal affection, etc. God's love for the Christian whom he has chosen, is utterly realistic, based on fact, but supported with an emotional connection of true love and acceptance. What a blessing it is to be known by God!
Lord, as I go about my day today, help me to remember the importance of prayer, that continual communication within a relationship. Help me to be open and honest with myself before you. Thank you for the real, loving, personal relationship you offer to me. Let it be said on that day that you know me, and that I know you. ~Karen
Know Me
It was summers past in Sunday school, that I first heard your name.
You touched my heart and let me hear, the truth being proclaimed.
I knew the joy they talked about, just simply had to be.
I heard your gentle whisper say, “My child come, know me”
Through different towns and different schools, you protected me from pain
You gave me strength to live for you, in choices that I made.
When faced with friends who’d let me down, a comfort you would be,
And still I heard you softly whisper, “My daughter come, know me”
I went to college and there you put, desire down in my heart
To find out what this task of yours, to “know you” would impart
You used this time to train my mind, you made me ache for truth
I read so many books it seemed, that told me about you.
I sang about a rugged cross, and kneeled on bended knee,
And still I heard you softly whisper, “I want you to know me.”
These facts and figures I have learned, have taught me who I should be,
A Christian walk that’s filled with fruit, that other’s can plainly see.
But in this quest for intellectual truth, I seem to have made an error,
The command you give is still so firm, “Know Me” your voice says clearer.
So today you speak with strong resound, the knowledge that I seek
Cannot be found in wisdom of man, but by bowing at your feet.
A relationship built on opening my soul, to what you have to give
The grace that poured out on the cross, so that I may truly live.
To know you is to be your child, to walk with you on earth
To hear your voice instead of mine, and know my eternal worth.
I long to hear you say one day, when I arrive on high,
“I know that child, I’ve held her hand, as she walked by my side.”
"For this reason we also, from the day we heard about you have not ceased praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may live worthily of the Lord and please him in all respects - bearing fruit in every good deed, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might for the display of all patience and steadfastness, joyfully giving thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light."
We looked at this scripture last week and determined that according to Paul in his letter to the church in Colossae, God is pleased when:
*We bear fruit
*We grow in knowledge
*We rely on His Strength, showing patience and steadfastness
*We joyfully give thanks to God
We discussed bearing fruit and now we can move on to "growing in the knowledge of God".....
Wow. Where do we start with this? Clearly, I am not a biblical scholar. My knowledge of God comes primarily through scripture and my relationship with him (and the Holy Spirit since the Bible states that the Holy Spirit teaches us wisdom). I do not claim to be wise, and I don't have time at this season of my life to research and write a novel on the idea of knowing God, or growing in the knowledge of God. Therefore, I will just expand on that which I was mulling over related to this scripture and the concept of Knowing God.
Paul writes in Philippians 3:8 "What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ". Since it appears to suggest that our lives do not have any meaning when we do not know Christ, it must be pretty important. The question is, what does Knowing God mean?
Knowing God Vs. Knowing Of God
Have you ever had a conversation with someone and they ask, "Do you know Sally? You know, her parents are Mark and Peggy. They live over on Maple Drive?" To which you may respond, "Oh, sure I know her." What are you really saying? Are you saying you know Sally in the sense that you know your spouse? Or are you saying you know of her? Clearly, you are saying you know about her, but you really don't know her at all. If someone said they knew you after only having met you 10 minutes ago, would you be slightly bothered by that statement? I would. How could anyone presume to really know me after just ten superficial minutes of conversation? I think I am much more complex than ten minutes of conversation might suggest. These examples bring us to a few main points:
The depth that you can really know someone is limited by the willingness of the other party to disclose information about themselves to you.
Ever tried to get to know someone who wouldn't reciprocate the sharing of information? It is very difficult to establish a connection if the other party will not open up to you. The depth that you get to know them would be very shallow. In essence, you would not be able to say that you knew them, because you really know nothing about them. Even though you may have spent time together, it was not times of sharing, but just one sided. If another party will not allow you to learn about them, you will never understand who they are. It is the same way with God. If God does not disclose himself to you, you cannot begin to know Him. J.I. Packer writes in his book, Knowing God "The width of our knowledge about him [God] is no gauge of the depth of our knowledge of him". In other words, we can know a lot about him - we can study and memorize scripture to no end, but it doesn't mean we know God, it just means we know about him.
It takes time to truly get to know someone
Ever met someone and assumed you knew them only to find out that who you thought they are is completely different from who they now appear to be? We share ourselves gradually, over time. We develop relationships gradually, gaining understanding of one another. In order to get to know each other, we must spend time getting to know each other. That is one of the things that is so important about prayer. We must spend time with the God of this Universe, talking to Him if we want to get to know him. The lack of conversation with Him or reading his word will have us draw false conclusions that are built on our presumed knowledge, not on true knowledge uncovered through spending time with God.
It takes a personal relationship
Getting to know someone requires both parties to be involved. Just as you are uncovering and understanding the other party, the other party is establishing a relationship with you. It is a relationship that must be built on trust and honesty if it is to develop true knowledge of each person involved. How can we trust someone we do not know? If someone read a biography about my life, they might know a lot about me, but they would not truly know me at all. In order for them to know me, we must have a personal relationship. If someone says something false about me, a friend with a personal relationship might be able to defend me by saying, "I know Karen, and that does not sound like something she would do." That friend can justify her point of view because she actually knows me well enough to assume certain behaviors from me. In the same way, we need a personal relationship with God in order to discern his will in our lives - how he would have us respond to certain situations, what he would have us invest our time in, etc.
It involves more than just intelligence
You can't only intellectually get to know someone within a personal relationship. When someone really knows you, they are emotionally connected and have a general concern for their good will. Packer writes, "They [two parties in a relationship] have identified themselves with, and so are personally and emotionally involved in, each other's concerns. They feel for each other, as well as thinking of each other. This is an essential aspect of the knowledge which friends have of each other; and the same applies to the Christian's knowledge of God." If we don’t have emotion behind a relationship - if it is only intellectual, it is hard to argue that there is any relationship at all. Now before you start to get nervous that I am suggesting that we should know God based on our flighty emotions - that is not what I am saying at all. But it is true that when we are part of a real relationship, we tend to emotionally care about the other's welfare and those things that are important to the other person. We should be the same way if we have a relationship with God. "Believers rejoice when their God is honored and vindicated and feel the acutest distress when they see God flouted."
Knowing God involves Grace
In order for us to develop a deep, true relationship with God, we must come to terms with the truth of who we are. It is not as important that we know God, but that we know that He knows us. Obviously, we intellectually know that the Bible states that God is omniscient or all-knowing. We know intellectually that God knows us, but we don't really know within our spirit that God knows everything about us and loves us anyway. We have to begin to acknowledge and disclose the truth about who we are to God, so that there is room for his grace to work in our lives. In the same way that we may know about God, and not really know him, God may know about us, but not really know us. Thus the mystery of Matthew 7:22-23 "Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me you evildoers!'" For God to know us, it means that there is an intimate relationship. It is not a factual based knowledge, but a sovereign-grace based knowledge, pointing to God's initiative in loving, choosing, redeeming, calling and preserving us. It is the meaning described in passages like the following "And the Lord said to Moses, 'I am pleased with you and I know you by name' (Ex 33:17). "Before I formed you [Jeremiah] in the womb, I knew you, before you were born, I set you apart" (Jer 1:5) "I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me....and I lay down my life for my sheep....my sheep hear my voice; I know them....shall never perish (Jn 10:14-15, 27-28). Here we see that when God says he knows us, it is implying a saving grace, a redemption, personal affection, etc. God's love for the Christian whom he has chosen, is utterly realistic, based on fact, but supported with an emotional connection of true love and acceptance. What a blessing it is to be known by God!
Lord, as I go about my day today, help me to remember the importance of prayer, that continual communication within a relationship. Help me to be open and honest with myself before you. Thank you for the real, loving, personal relationship you offer to me. Let it be said on that day that you know me, and that I know you. ~Karen
Know Me
It was summers past in Sunday school, that I first heard your name.
You touched my heart and let me hear, the truth being proclaimed.
I knew the joy they talked about, just simply had to be.
I heard your gentle whisper say, “My child come, know me”
Through different towns and different schools, you protected me from pain
You gave me strength to live for you, in choices that I made.
When faced with friends who’d let me down, a comfort you would be,
And still I heard you softly whisper, “My daughter come, know me”
I went to college and there you put, desire down in my heart
To find out what this task of yours, to “know you” would impart
You used this time to train my mind, you made me ache for truth
I read so many books it seemed, that told me about you.
I sang about a rugged cross, and kneeled on bended knee,
And still I heard you softly whisper, “I want you to know me.”
These facts and figures I have learned, have taught me who I should be,
A Christian walk that’s filled with fruit, that other’s can plainly see.
But in this quest for intellectual truth, I seem to have made an error,
The command you give is still so firm, “Know Me” your voice says clearer.
So today you speak with strong resound, the knowledge that I seek
Cannot be found in wisdom of man, but by bowing at your feet.
A relationship built on opening my soul, to what you have to give
The grace that poured out on the cross, so that I may truly live.
To know you is to be your child, to walk with you on earth
To hear your voice instead of mine, and know my eternal worth.
I long to hear you say one day, when I arrive on high,
“I know that child, I’ve held her hand, as she walked by my side.”
Monday, April 5, 2010
The Battle
Lately I feel an overwhelming defense growing inside of me - a hesitation to absorb what seems to be a growing deception even among those teachers we trust. Something feels like we are being led astray. I am cautious, not wanting to condemn, not wanting to accept, not wanting to falsely accuse, and not wanting to make my thoughts self-righteous or pretend that I know more than someone else, that I know the truth and others don't. I am hesitant to do anything. I am not sure if this growing hesitation is a true reflection of what is out there, but it feels like the enemy is movng in. Something feels deceptive. I want to be aware. I want to be on guard. I feel the need to be in the Bible and pray. To be wary of all explanations of Biblical truth, including my own. I have never felt this burden of prayer or this vivid, moving concern over this growing evil that is moving. It is so deceptive! I am fearful that I too may be taken captive by some humanistic philosophy shrouded under a cloak of half-truths that I have followed from someone I percieve to be a Godly man or woman. I only have prayer and the scriptures to cling to. Don't get me wrong - I do not feel weak. But I do feel somewhat isolated. How can our society not see this real struggle, this real war that is surrounding us? How do we fight that which we cannot and do not acknowledge? We see the war and deny its existence! We see bodies strewn about, victims of this battle, and we step over them. We act like Satan is not a powerful, destructive, tactical foe. We pretend that we are benevolent Christians, bringing our feel-good philosphies to the world who just wanders about. we want to reach them, but we don't want to be too pushy. We don't want to come off like we have all the answers. We want them to drift towards God. This is not an amusement park, where we call people to our booth to convince them they will win by joining our team. This is a battle! This is life and death! We watch as our fellow Christians are led astray by deceptions! We watch as the lost wander aimlessly an easy target for an enemy who is anxiously, actively devouring! We tell ourselves that we just need to love people, to let them see God in our lives, that our actions alone will be enough to witness to people. Our enemy gives us this tactic. We have to preach the gospel! We have to tell people the truth! Yes, God is love - but not the kind of love defined by the world, which sacrifices itself to make others feel good. This is not about feeling good! True love hurts! True love has truth! True love exhibits justice! It fights evil! It defends righteousness! Our world is infiltrated with lies! Despicable behavior, lack of understanding, deceptive philosophies. True love exposes those lies! It may not feel like love the way it is defined by this world. But the definiton of love is GOD and HIS righteousness, not the other way around! When we say God is love, it does not mean that God exhibits what we define as love. It means GOD DEFINES WHAT LOVE IS! Truth! Righteousness!
Battles are not careful. War does not merge the two points of view. Tolerance is not a reality! It is not possible. In war, there are two ideals being fought for. You have to choose a side! The sides are at complete and utter opposites! We must pray for the success of Truth, of real Love - all of which is defined by God! We must stand for what is right! We don't only play defense, diggin in our heels and ducking inside the trench to protect ourselves from an advancing enemy. We have to play offense! We have to fight! We have to know what truth is before we can put on the belt of truth! We have to know what true righteousness looks like before we can put on the breastplate of righteousness. Our protection lies here! It lies in the truth found in scripture! It lies in Christ! Our protection must be born of Christ, and shrouded in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our lives. I cannot fight this on my own. I will be decieved. It is the power of Christ living in me that offers the only hope of salvation through this wasteland of destruction and lies. The smoke is rising. What side are you on? Just so you know, if you feel like there isn't a battle, that what I talk about is not really happening, not really important, then there is a good chance you are advancing the army of the enemy - and you just may be a soldier in that army!
I pray that Christ may reveal this battle to us as we move about the daily routines and activities. I pray that he will embolden us to pursue the Truth and speak about it to others. I pray that God's army might be stregthened - not only to endure the battle, but to overcome. I pray that we may be filled, encouraged and instructed by the Holy Spirit sent to us by Christ. Join the battle. Put on your armor, and fight! ~Karen
Battles are not careful. War does not merge the two points of view. Tolerance is not a reality! It is not possible. In war, there are two ideals being fought for. You have to choose a side! The sides are at complete and utter opposites! We must pray for the success of Truth, of real Love - all of which is defined by God! We must stand for what is right! We don't only play defense, diggin in our heels and ducking inside the trench to protect ourselves from an advancing enemy. We have to play offense! We have to fight! We have to know what truth is before we can put on the belt of truth! We have to know what true righteousness looks like before we can put on the breastplate of righteousness. Our protection lies here! It lies in the truth found in scripture! It lies in Christ! Our protection must be born of Christ, and shrouded in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our lives. I cannot fight this on my own. I will be decieved. It is the power of Christ living in me that offers the only hope of salvation through this wasteland of destruction and lies. The smoke is rising. What side are you on? Just so you know, if you feel like there isn't a battle, that what I talk about is not really happening, not really important, then there is a good chance you are advancing the army of the enemy - and you just may be a soldier in that army!
I pray that Christ may reveal this battle to us as we move about the daily routines and activities. I pray that he will embolden us to pursue the Truth and speak about it to others. I pray that God's army might be stregthened - not only to endure the battle, but to overcome. I pray that we may be filled, encouraged and instructed by the Holy Spirit sent to us by Christ. Join the battle. Put on your armor, and fight! ~Karen
Friday, April 2, 2010
Pleasing God (part one)
Have you ever tried to please someone who thought they were perfect? It's a losing proposition. No matter how hard you try, you feel like it is never good enough. Frustration ensues. For some people, complacency sets in. They give up, they quit trying. "Why bother if it never seems to matter?" they ask themselves. Others may have thier frustration lead them to rebellion. "If I can't please them, I might as well do what I want to do" they might say. "At least I will live my life my way, and have fun doing it!" Thier rebellion usually leads them somewhere they don't want to go, and thier happiness is elusive, darting around the next corner, the next road, the next unfulfilling relationship.
We serve a perfect God. At times, I think our response can be like the ones I described above. We view God as oppressive, as expecting too much out of us. We strive for perfection in our own strength, defining that perfection from what we think God wants, and then we give up - tired, defeated, and sometimes a little rebellious.....
Colossians 1:9-12
"For this reason we also, from the day we heard about you have not ceased praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may live worthily of the Lord and please him in all respects - bearing fruit in every good deed, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might for the display of all patience and steadfastness, joyfully giving thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light."
So what does this mean? How does this scripture help us to serve a perfect God? According to this passage, we can quit defining our own ways to please God! It directly addresses this issue.
According to Paul in his letter to the church in Colossae, God is pleased when:
*We bear fruit
*We Grow in knowledge
*We rely on His Strength, showing patience and steadfastness
*we joyfully give thanks to God
Bearing Fruit - Developing Your Branches
Have you ever thought about planting a fruit tree. I have. I always run into the same problem. It takes so long for it to bear fruit! I would plant one, but I am not sure I want to put the time and energy into a tree that I amy never enjoy the fruit on. We might move before then, and then it would all be a waste! Sometimes I think the same way spiritually. I know that I have the seed of life planted within me. It needs to grow, to be nourished. It takes time. The payoff might be elusive, and at times, it seems like more work than what I think I might get out of it. The result is stunted growth. In areas of my life that should have larger, strong branches ready to bear fruit, I have puny stems with a few leaves on them. Other branches, I have developed well, but the weight of these branches in proportion to the ones I am lacking in, makes me struggle to maintain my balance. A proper tree spreads its branches evenly, and grows cohesively. This allows it withstand wind storms, heavy rain, drought and hail. When I choose to develop one area, and don't address others, I am weaking my ability to withstand adversity from the devil. I will spend more time trying to keep upright, trying not be unrooted, trying to bend without breaking, that I lose sight of the fruit I was intended to bear, and I switch to survival mode. The devil likes this. I am an easy target for being a dissuaded, complacent, frustrated, tired Christian. I am not threat. A single storm might take me a year to recover from. When instead, I allow each branch to be developed by God, in His time and focus on the areas he wants me to grow in, and the way in which he intends to make them grow, I am firm. I am unshakeable. I am mighty. I bear a lot of fruit! When the devil tries to attack, I don't fight with my own strength. I allow God to easily bend and move my branches through the storm. I maintain my balance, I maintain my peace, and most importantly I remain firmly rooted in Christ.
Bearing Fruit - Different Fruit Types
When you think about a tree that will give fruit, I usually think of an apple or pear tree. The problem I have, is that sometimes I see a pear tree and I want it to produce apples, and sometimes I may see an apple tree that I want to produce oranges. Of course, I am speaking spiritually. God has created me as a special kind of tree. I bear the most fruit when I join him in trying to bear the fruit he made me to bear. If I was an apple tree and focused on bearing pears, I would bear very few fruit (apples) because I was so focused on trying to bear fruit that I was not created to bear. If I accept that I am an apple tree, and focus on bearing superior apples, I may be so prolific that my branches would bend under the weight. In additon, the number of apples would be so great, that the one harvesting may not be able to keep up! A few apples may just drop and rot on the ground, and help to produce a new apple tree (spreading the gospel)! If I am to bear a large quantity and great quality fruit, I need to join in God's purpose for my life, and accept who it is that He made me to be. I also need to accept that he made others to bear other types of fruit. Sometimes we look at others and expect them to bear fruit they were not created to bear. We ask them to assist in projects they don't like, or don't feel especially skilled for. We want them to act a certain way, to dress a certain way, to share the gospel a certain way, to raise thier kids a certain way, and we deny the fact that they may be created to display different fruit than we do. In fact, their fruit is unique to them! Just like ours, thier fruit is priceless to thier Heavenly Father, as long as they too, have recognized how God made them and have joined Him to bear the fruit He asks them to bear.
Bearing Fruit - Different Fruit Purposes
Some fruit is not intended to eat. Or at least, not intended for fresh consumption. Take the coffee tree. It produces a red berry. Inside that berry, is a seed that breaks into two halves. These halves are roasted to create the coffee bean. If you decided to eat a coffee berry in it's raw state, without proper preparation, you would be in for a bitter, deceptive surprise. Don't be fooled though! The fruit is intentional. The fruit is created well. Don't assume it is a burden, or a waste. From face-value, from the raw state, it may not seem useful, helpful, or a blessing, but sometimes God wants our fruit to be prepared. He gives us fruit that takes time and energy to develop into a rich aroma! Our fruit may be intended for a special task, that no other fruit can accomplish. It may take special preparation. It may take additional time. It is worth it. Allowing the grower (God) to harvest this fruit, to peel away the extra layers (you know - the ones that make it look nice, the layers that protect what he is really after - the treasured core, the heart of us) this pleases God! Let your fruit be useful! Allow God to prepare it for His service, for His glory!
Lord, help me to develop slowly, and intentionally - the way you created me to be, bearing fruit that you intended for me to bear, and allowing you to develop that fruit to be used for you purpose. Let my firm foundation be rooted in You, and let your Holy Spirit flow through me so that others may see the security of my branches and the blessings of the fruit you create, and give prasie to the glory of God! Amen.
We serve a perfect God. At times, I think our response can be like the ones I described above. We view God as oppressive, as expecting too much out of us. We strive for perfection in our own strength, defining that perfection from what we think God wants, and then we give up - tired, defeated, and sometimes a little rebellious.....
Colossians 1:9-12
"For this reason we also, from the day we heard about you have not ceased praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may live worthily of the Lord and please him in all respects - bearing fruit in every good deed, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might for the display of all patience and steadfastness, joyfully giving thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light."
So what does this mean? How does this scripture help us to serve a perfect God? According to this passage, we can quit defining our own ways to please God! It directly addresses this issue.
According to Paul in his letter to the church in Colossae, God is pleased when:
*We bear fruit
*We Grow in knowledge
*We rely on His Strength, showing patience and steadfastness
*we joyfully give thanks to God
Bearing Fruit - Developing Your Branches
Have you ever thought about planting a fruit tree. I have. I always run into the same problem. It takes so long for it to bear fruit! I would plant one, but I am not sure I want to put the time and energy into a tree that I amy never enjoy the fruit on. We might move before then, and then it would all be a waste! Sometimes I think the same way spiritually. I know that I have the seed of life planted within me. It needs to grow, to be nourished. It takes time. The payoff might be elusive, and at times, it seems like more work than what I think I might get out of it. The result is stunted growth. In areas of my life that should have larger, strong branches ready to bear fruit, I have puny stems with a few leaves on them. Other branches, I have developed well, but the weight of these branches in proportion to the ones I am lacking in, makes me struggle to maintain my balance. A proper tree spreads its branches evenly, and grows cohesively. This allows it withstand wind storms, heavy rain, drought and hail. When I choose to develop one area, and don't address others, I am weaking my ability to withstand adversity from the devil. I will spend more time trying to keep upright, trying not be unrooted, trying to bend without breaking, that I lose sight of the fruit I was intended to bear, and I switch to survival mode. The devil likes this. I am an easy target for being a dissuaded, complacent, frustrated, tired Christian. I am not threat. A single storm might take me a year to recover from. When instead, I allow each branch to be developed by God, in His time and focus on the areas he wants me to grow in, and the way in which he intends to make them grow, I am firm. I am unshakeable. I am mighty. I bear a lot of fruit! When the devil tries to attack, I don't fight with my own strength. I allow God to easily bend and move my branches through the storm. I maintain my balance, I maintain my peace, and most importantly I remain firmly rooted in Christ.
Bearing Fruit - Different Fruit Types
When you think about a tree that will give fruit, I usually think of an apple or pear tree. The problem I have, is that sometimes I see a pear tree and I want it to produce apples, and sometimes I may see an apple tree that I want to produce oranges. Of course, I am speaking spiritually. God has created me as a special kind of tree. I bear the most fruit when I join him in trying to bear the fruit he made me to bear. If I was an apple tree and focused on bearing pears, I would bear very few fruit (apples) because I was so focused on trying to bear fruit that I was not created to bear. If I accept that I am an apple tree, and focus on bearing superior apples, I may be so prolific that my branches would bend under the weight. In additon, the number of apples would be so great, that the one harvesting may not be able to keep up! A few apples may just drop and rot on the ground, and help to produce a new apple tree (spreading the gospel)! If I am to bear a large quantity and great quality fruit, I need to join in God's purpose for my life, and accept who it is that He made me to be. I also need to accept that he made others to bear other types of fruit. Sometimes we look at others and expect them to bear fruit they were not created to bear. We ask them to assist in projects they don't like, or don't feel especially skilled for. We want them to act a certain way, to dress a certain way, to share the gospel a certain way, to raise thier kids a certain way, and we deny the fact that they may be created to display different fruit than we do. In fact, their fruit is unique to them! Just like ours, thier fruit is priceless to thier Heavenly Father, as long as they too, have recognized how God made them and have joined Him to bear the fruit He asks them to bear.
Bearing Fruit - Different Fruit Purposes
Some fruit is not intended to eat. Or at least, not intended for fresh consumption. Take the coffee tree. It produces a red berry. Inside that berry, is a seed that breaks into two halves. These halves are roasted to create the coffee bean. If you decided to eat a coffee berry in it's raw state, without proper preparation, you would be in for a bitter, deceptive surprise. Don't be fooled though! The fruit is intentional. The fruit is created well. Don't assume it is a burden, or a waste. From face-value, from the raw state, it may not seem useful, helpful, or a blessing, but sometimes God wants our fruit to be prepared. He gives us fruit that takes time and energy to develop into a rich aroma! Our fruit may be intended for a special task, that no other fruit can accomplish. It may take special preparation. It may take additional time. It is worth it. Allowing the grower (God) to harvest this fruit, to peel away the extra layers (you know - the ones that make it look nice, the layers that protect what he is really after - the treasured core, the heart of us) this pleases God! Let your fruit be useful! Allow God to prepare it for His service, for His glory!
Lord, help me to develop slowly, and intentionally - the way you created me to be, bearing fruit that you intended for me to bear, and allowing you to develop that fruit to be used for you purpose. Let my firm foundation be rooted in You, and let your Holy Spirit flow through me so that others may see the security of my branches and the blessings of the fruit you create, and give prasie to the glory of God! Amen.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Deception
What if someone told you that there is a world around us, that is active, deceptive, engaged in, and infiltrating our lives. This is not a physical world, but a spiritual one. But don't let that decieve you. It has more impact on your physical world than anything else. It drives our physical world into caos. It infiltrates our very minds, manipulating our cultures, not from a distance, but among us. They are here. They are real. Would you fight? Would you stand up for what is true? What you stand up for what is right? Would you develop a tactic to overcome your adversary? Would you unite with other people who believed in this invisible world? Would you fight together with those that saw it for what it was? This sounds like science fiction, like something written in the pages of a script for television. But unlike what we see on television or read in books, this is actually REAL.......
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood (the physical world), but against the rulers (those attempting to control), against the authorities (those who define the rules) against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (in the spiritual world - right among us, but unseen)."
This struggle as Paul defines it, is real. It's not science fiction. It is not outside my town. I cannot operate within the confines of what I know, what I am comfortable with and escape that battle. No, it is amoung our towns. It is not outside our church. In fact, our churches may be the center of the battlefields (if they are not, there may be something wrong with the church you attend). It is not outside our circle of friends. No, the evil schemes are moving among those we love, among those we dislike, among us. It is not outside our window. The battle moves among our families, among our children, among our workplace. It sits in the car with us. It lays down to sleep with us. The battle is real. It is constant. It is severe. It is life and death.
Are you awake? Are you thinking of scrounging around for a defense? In this battle between the evil forces and those serving God, how do we defend ourselves? How do we overcome something that we cannot see? How do we begin to see or recognize the operations, motives, tactics, movements of our enemy so that we may position ourselves to withstand an attack?
Ephesians 6:13-15
"Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace."
Today I want to examine part one, the belt of truth:
The Belt of Truth. What truth? The truth of who we are in this world? The truth of who God is? The truth of who our adversary, Satan is? Truth as explained by the term "Wisdom" or "Knowledge"? Truth as explained by the term "Reality"? Truth as defined by "right" or "wrong"? The short answer to these questions is "yes". Truth as defined in scripture is "that which is opposed to falsehood". It wraps the reality of Christ, the reality of our being, the reality of the struggle with sin and good and evil in this world, all into one. The belt of truth opposes falsehood. It opposes falsehood in our minds - deceptive thoughts, deceptive information, deceptive philosophies. It opposes falsehood in our world - deceptive behavior, deceptive cultures, deceptive claims such as what will being you happiness, peace, or success. It opposes falsehood in the spiritual realm -Christ said "I am the truth". Christians can oppose falsehoods from satan just through thier faith in Christ! We pick up the belt of truth when we wake up in the morning, and choose to follow Christ. We wrap it around our midsection when we read the truth of scripture, the Holy Bible. We buckle the clasps on the belt when we let these words of scripture infiltrate our hearts and minds, transforming who were were when we were a part of the world, and who we are in Christ. We stand firm in our faith when we remember that this belt of truth only has power when it comes from God, and not of ourselves. To build our defense, we carry the belt of truth to others when we share the gospel with them. Our army is built out of those who recognize this battle and prepare thier hearts and minds for warfare. We stand firm knowing the enemy's tactics, and deflecting deception when it is fired upon us.
Lord, may I stand firm today in Truth. May I recognize this battle and fight for the souls of others. May I develop an urgency to spare someone a single day of torment by sharing the gospel. Lord prepare me for battle. Give me wisdom and understanding to oppose falsehood among me. The falsehood of our world that tells me that what I do is never good enough. The falsehood of our world that tells me not to try. The falsehood of our world which tries to distract me from this urgent, powerful war waging among us. May I focus on what truly matters today Lord, and find my strength on the battlefield within your arms. Amen.
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood (the physical world), but against the rulers (those attempting to control), against the authorities (those who define the rules) against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (in the spiritual world - right among us, but unseen)."
This struggle as Paul defines it, is real. It's not science fiction. It is not outside my town. I cannot operate within the confines of what I know, what I am comfortable with and escape that battle. No, it is amoung our towns. It is not outside our church. In fact, our churches may be the center of the battlefields (if they are not, there may be something wrong with the church you attend). It is not outside our circle of friends. No, the evil schemes are moving among those we love, among those we dislike, among us. It is not outside our window. The battle moves among our families, among our children, among our workplace. It sits in the car with us. It lays down to sleep with us. The battle is real. It is constant. It is severe. It is life and death.
Are you awake? Are you thinking of scrounging around for a defense? In this battle between the evil forces and those serving God, how do we defend ourselves? How do we overcome something that we cannot see? How do we begin to see or recognize the operations, motives, tactics, movements of our enemy so that we may position ourselves to withstand an attack?
Ephesians 6:13-15
"Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace."
Today I want to examine part one, the belt of truth:
The Belt of Truth. What truth? The truth of who we are in this world? The truth of who God is? The truth of who our adversary, Satan is? Truth as explained by the term "Wisdom" or "Knowledge"? Truth as explained by the term "Reality"? Truth as defined by "right" or "wrong"? The short answer to these questions is "yes". Truth as defined in scripture is "that which is opposed to falsehood". It wraps the reality of Christ, the reality of our being, the reality of the struggle with sin and good and evil in this world, all into one. The belt of truth opposes falsehood. It opposes falsehood in our minds - deceptive thoughts, deceptive information, deceptive philosophies. It opposes falsehood in our world - deceptive behavior, deceptive cultures, deceptive claims such as what will being you happiness, peace, or success. It opposes falsehood in the spiritual realm -Christ said "I am the truth". Christians can oppose falsehoods from satan just through thier faith in Christ! We pick up the belt of truth when we wake up in the morning, and choose to follow Christ. We wrap it around our midsection when we read the truth of scripture, the Holy Bible. We buckle the clasps on the belt when we let these words of scripture infiltrate our hearts and minds, transforming who were were when we were a part of the world, and who we are in Christ. We stand firm in our faith when we remember that this belt of truth only has power when it comes from God, and not of ourselves. To build our defense, we carry the belt of truth to others when we share the gospel with them. Our army is built out of those who recognize this battle and prepare thier hearts and minds for warfare. We stand firm knowing the enemy's tactics, and deflecting deception when it is fired upon us.
Lord, may I stand firm today in Truth. May I recognize this battle and fight for the souls of others. May I develop an urgency to spare someone a single day of torment by sharing the gospel. Lord prepare me for battle. Give me wisdom and understanding to oppose falsehood among me. The falsehood of our world that tells me that what I do is never good enough. The falsehood of our world that tells me not to try. The falsehood of our world which tries to distract me from this urgent, powerful war waging among us. May I focus on what truly matters today Lord, and find my strength on the battlefield within your arms. Amen.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Colossians 1:21-23
"And you were at one time strangers and enemies in your minds as expressed through your evil deeds, but now he has reconciled you by his physical body through death to present you holy, without blemish, and blameless before him - if indeed you remain in the faith, established and firm, without shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard."
I don't know why I do the things I do. I don't mean to, but I do them. OK, sometimes I mean them. But sometimes I don't. Sometimes I want to do what is good, but keep doing what is not. I like the first part of this scripture, which reminds up that our evil actions stem from our THOUGHTS. That is precisely why the bible instructs us to be transformed through the renewing of our MINDS (Romans 12:2). And how do we renew our minds? By taking captive every THOUGHT and making it obedient to Christ (1 Corinthians 10:5). See a pattern here? In order to accomplish God's will in our lives and to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18) we must know His Word in the depths of our minds. We must believe at the very core of our being, that this is real, that God cares for us, that Jesus pardoned us, and that the Holy Spirit works within us. A great book on this concept is Dallas Willard's "Renovation of The Heart". He talks about how our emotions stem from our thoughts. Don't want to be frustrated? THINK about something that doesn't frustrate you (perhaps the love of God even when we frustrate Him). Have you ever had conversations with your spouses that they have never participated in? You know the ones - you roll a situation over and over in your head, speaking for the other party. You get more and more hurt and angry. One day I decided to put Dallas' teaching into action. When the situation above started to happen, I decided to think of something else. Not only did my emotions follow my thoughts to something else, but I was shocked by the immediacy at which they followed. The only part of me that lingered was the sin part - the part that wanted to choose to think about the situation and get angry about it. I was shocked - you mean there is a part of me that likes to be unhappy? What a strange realization! Especially when I know it makes me so unhappy! When I decided to deny that sin and change my thinking, my whole being rejoiced! I not only spared frustration and anger for myself, but I added joy and peace to my life. How amazing it is when the Bible proves right! When we deny our sinful nature, the result is peace and fulfillment to our lives. But Satan tries to convince us otherwise. He tries to convince us that we are somehow vindicated and justified in our frustration and unhappiness, but we know the result is usually lack of fulfillment and sadness. Oh Lord, help me to carefully choose my thoughts today. When I am faced with difficult circumstances, let me direct those thoughts to you and your Word. Change me from the inside, so my emotions and actions flow out of a changed mind.
The second part of this scripture deals with not only our salvation (a one-time occurance) but also our transformation (continual change). It speaks about how Christ's death on the cross presents us:
1. Holy
2. Without Blemish
3. Blameless before Him
But here is the amazing part - THIS IS NOT A ONE-TIME THING! He doesn't just clean us up on the day of our salvation like a child scrubbed up for Sunday School who later plays in the mud. He continually cleanses those who believe, those who remain in Him. We do not have to worry about rejection over the sins we still commit. God's love is not limited for those who believe. BELIEVE my friend! This is real! This is true!
Boldly move forward today, choosing to direct your thoughts by setting your mind on things above (Colossians 3:2), and enjoy the sweet assurance of the continual cleansing you receive through your faith in Jesus Christ. ~Karen
I don't know why I do the things I do. I don't mean to, but I do them. OK, sometimes I mean them. But sometimes I don't. Sometimes I want to do what is good, but keep doing what is not. I like the first part of this scripture, which reminds up that our evil actions stem from our THOUGHTS. That is precisely why the bible instructs us to be transformed through the renewing of our MINDS (Romans 12:2). And how do we renew our minds? By taking captive every THOUGHT and making it obedient to Christ (1 Corinthians 10:5). See a pattern here? In order to accomplish God's will in our lives and to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18) we must know His Word in the depths of our minds. We must believe at the very core of our being, that this is real, that God cares for us, that Jesus pardoned us, and that the Holy Spirit works within us. A great book on this concept is Dallas Willard's "Renovation of The Heart". He talks about how our emotions stem from our thoughts. Don't want to be frustrated? THINK about something that doesn't frustrate you (perhaps the love of God even when we frustrate Him). Have you ever had conversations with your spouses that they have never participated in? You know the ones - you roll a situation over and over in your head, speaking for the other party. You get more and more hurt and angry. One day I decided to put Dallas' teaching into action. When the situation above started to happen, I decided to think of something else. Not only did my emotions follow my thoughts to something else, but I was shocked by the immediacy at which they followed. The only part of me that lingered was the sin part - the part that wanted to choose to think about the situation and get angry about it. I was shocked - you mean there is a part of me that likes to be unhappy? What a strange realization! Especially when I know it makes me so unhappy! When I decided to deny that sin and change my thinking, my whole being rejoiced! I not only spared frustration and anger for myself, but I added joy and peace to my life. How amazing it is when the Bible proves right! When we deny our sinful nature, the result is peace and fulfillment to our lives. But Satan tries to convince us otherwise. He tries to convince us that we are somehow vindicated and justified in our frustration and unhappiness, but we know the result is usually lack of fulfillment and sadness. Oh Lord, help me to carefully choose my thoughts today. When I am faced with difficult circumstances, let me direct those thoughts to you and your Word. Change me from the inside, so my emotions and actions flow out of a changed mind.
The second part of this scripture deals with not only our salvation (a one-time occurance) but also our transformation (continual change). It speaks about how Christ's death on the cross presents us:
1. Holy
2. Without Blemish
3. Blameless before Him
But here is the amazing part - THIS IS NOT A ONE-TIME THING! He doesn't just clean us up on the day of our salvation like a child scrubbed up for Sunday School who later plays in the mud. He continually cleanses those who believe, those who remain in Him. We do not have to worry about rejection over the sins we still commit. God's love is not limited for those who believe. BELIEVE my friend! This is real! This is true!
Boldly move forward today, choosing to direct your thoughts by setting your mind on things above (Colossians 3:2), and enjoy the sweet assurance of the continual cleansing you receive through your faith in Jesus Christ. ~Karen
Friday, March 19, 2010
Colossians 3:12-13
"Therefore (because of Christ we are), as the elect of God (chosen, called), holy (perfectly, honorably, spiritually pure) and dearly (precious, cherished, a high price, prized, scarce, worthy, honorable) loved (tender, passionate affection, warm personal attachment, taking great pleasure in ), clothe yourself (this is not passive - it suggests that I am actively engaged and choosing to dress myself in these things!) with a heart (the center of the personality, or emotion) of mercy (compassion, or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, and enemy, or other person in one's power, to pardon someone, an act of kindness, - I like this one - evidence of divine favor) kindness, humility (modest opinion of one's rank, lowly, meekness, submissiveness), gentleness (amiable, mild, gradual, to millify, sooth, calm, pacify) and patience (bearing annoyance, misfortune or pain without complaint or irritation; quiet, steady perserverance), bearing with one another (supporting someone as if they depended on you - crutches come to mind) and forgiving one another (granting a pardon, cancel an indebtedness), if someone happens to have a complaint against anyone else (whether we agree with that complaint or not). Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also forgive others."
Wow! Here it is again with no comments:
"Therefore as the elect of God, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if someone happens to have a complaint against anyone else. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also forgive others."
The first thing that struck me is I AM HOLY AND DEARLY LOVED! To use some of the synonymns, I am perfectly prized and someone takes great pleasure in me. What an awesome truth! Even when i feel most unloveable, God loves me completely.
The second thing that struck me was the idea that we daily choose to clothe ourselves in these things. It is not something the Holy Spirit just grants us. It is not like I can pray, Lord, please make me patient, and boom, I am patient. No, I think the Lord provides opportunities to learn patience or exhibit patience. He may also through the Holy Spirit give us a heightened ability during certain situations to display character traits we may not normally be able to acurately express, but the more common form of transformation involves our action too. We need to step forward, courageously and dress ourselves in these things in the morning, right along with our underwear.
The third thing that struck me is the tone of our interaction that is described by this scripture. It is not a "go in with gusto" tone. It is a focus on others needs and emotions. It is compassion flowing out of true love, not duty. It is not someone being trampled on or passively interacting with the world, but someone courageously supporting someone. The supporters' heart wants to be unnoticed, unseen, to everyone other than who they are trying to encourage. But thier actions shout loudly because they are so unusual in the world, so foreign to the me mentality, that it can't help but draw the other person in. It is a picture of God at work.
Lord, today help me to remember that I am holy and dearly loved by you. Since I embrace and believe this truth, that my true value lies in that statement, I no longer have to pacify my insecurities by looking for reassurance from others. I can stop focusing on myself and my needs, and focus on those of others. I can demonstrate mercy, humility, gentleness, and patience - those same taits you demonstrate to me. Lord, help me to allow you be my teacher. As the pupil, help me study what this looks like by reading your word, and seeing how you have demonstrated it to other Christians in the past. As the student, help me to put into practice what I learn.
May the Holy SPirit encourage you today and everyday as we go on to fight the battle being waged around us. Remember we are not of this world. The weapons we fight with are not of this world. They have the Divine power to demolish strongholds. I feel strong knowing that God will supply my weapons, and train me how to use them. I only need to be willing. ~Karen
Wow! Here it is again with no comments:
"Therefore as the elect of God, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if someone happens to have a complaint against anyone else. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also forgive others."
The first thing that struck me is I AM HOLY AND DEARLY LOVED! To use some of the synonymns, I am perfectly prized and someone takes great pleasure in me. What an awesome truth! Even when i feel most unloveable, God loves me completely.
The second thing that struck me was the idea that we daily choose to clothe ourselves in these things. It is not something the Holy Spirit just grants us. It is not like I can pray, Lord, please make me patient, and boom, I am patient. No, I think the Lord provides opportunities to learn patience or exhibit patience. He may also through the Holy Spirit give us a heightened ability during certain situations to display character traits we may not normally be able to acurately express, but the more common form of transformation involves our action too. We need to step forward, courageously and dress ourselves in these things in the morning, right along with our underwear.
The third thing that struck me is the tone of our interaction that is described by this scripture. It is not a "go in with gusto" tone. It is a focus on others needs and emotions. It is compassion flowing out of true love, not duty. It is not someone being trampled on or passively interacting with the world, but someone courageously supporting someone. The supporters' heart wants to be unnoticed, unseen, to everyone other than who they are trying to encourage. But thier actions shout loudly because they are so unusual in the world, so foreign to the me mentality, that it can't help but draw the other person in. It is a picture of God at work.
Lord, today help me to remember that I am holy and dearly loved by you. Since I embrace and believe this truth, that my true value lies in that statement, I no longer have to pacify my insecurities by looking for reassurance from others. I can stop focusing on myself and my needs, and focus on those of others. I can demonstrate mercy, humility, gentleness, and patience - those same taits you demonstrate to me. Lord, help me to allow you be my teacher. As the pupil, help me study what this looks like by reading your word, and seeing how you have demonstrated it to other Christians in the past. As the student, help me to put into practice what I learn.
May the Holy SPirit encourage you today and everyday as we go on to fight the battle being waged around us. Remember we are not of this world. The weapons we fight with are not of this world. They have the Divine power to demolish strongholds. I feel strong knowing that God will supply my weapons, and train me how to use them. I only need to be willing. ~Karen
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Trusting in God
"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." ~ Psalm 20:7
If you would have quoted this verse to me one week ago, I would have told you I had never heard it. The Bible says that the Holy Spirit will guide and instruct us, and this week, the Holy Spirit had something to say to me! I heard this verse quoted or saw it written at least four times in the last week! When I mentioned this to my husband, he quickly replied - "It looks like God's trying to tell you something." So I have pondered this short and simple verse, meditating on its meaning and attempting to understand just what it is I am supposed to learn from it. Below is a brief analysis of my conclusion:
Some Trust in Chariots
A chariot was used in ancient times many times in battle or during a race. The rider would stand on the platform in the middle, with the wheel on the outside, and hold the reins of the horse pulling the chariot. The chariot itself was man-made, put together piece by piece by a craftsman. It might provide additional protection for the rider, as in the course of battle. Or it may also offer prestige with decadent decorations displaying the wealth of the owner. Just as ancient poeple trusted in chariots during the race or battle, today, people may also trust in "chariots" through the race course of life. These "chariots" are man-made things. They might be a home, a car, jewlery, toys, or many other items. They may believe that these items offer protection from life's battles. They give them a false hope of security, power, and comfort. These people take good care of their "chariots", they wash them on Sundays, they enter them in parades, they invite others to tour them, they lock them in safes. These "chariots" offer a ride through this life that is filled with the potholes of "never enough", the one-way road to "burdened", and the intersection where the roads of "one more", "bigger is better", "If I only had" and "one day" all meet. This chariot will carry the rider somewhere, but they never end up where they wanted to go.
Some Trust in Horses
In ancient times, the horse would be hitched to the chariot. The horse would have a bit attached to reins, and the chariot rider would steer the horse to make the chariot go where he wanted it to go. The horse had to be powerful to pull the weight of the chariot and to maintain endurance for the race or the battle. A good horse could make or break the outcome. The rider depended on the horse to pull the chariot. Without the horse, the rider would be a sitting duck for the enemy. The rider needed a horse who was not afraid to go into battle, or who would put forth the extra energy to win a race. The rider could not control the horses' internal desire to perform. The created horse itself would need to provide that security to the rider. Just as the rider was dependent upon the horse, people today put their trust in created things, things they cannot control. They look to the created world to offer them purpose and meaning. They let others guide thier path, and assume that this life on earth is all that matters, all that is eternal. They let their natural feelings and emotions take them where they want to go. The riders do not direct their lives with reins, but instead, they say, we should do what feels good, we should go where our internal desires take us. They trust in the things they see around them, and get advice and direction from the world.
But We Trust in the Name of the Lord Our God
So where does a Christian put their trust? Not in the chariot, the man-made item which could fall apart at any time. And not in the creature or the created things. A christian rider who is running the race of life places their trust in the Lord. The chariot we ride is not adorned with jewels and pearls, but it moves well, and smoothly among life's trials, safely keeping the rider on course. The chariot is the Word of God, offering us truth to stand on, a strong foundation. Like the worldly rider, the christian rider's chariot offers protection from the enemy. When faced with adversity, our chariot (the Word) delivers peace in the midst of battle, and encouragement through the race of life. Unlike the worldly rider and his horse, the christian rider does not fight with the reins, pulling the bit in the horse's mouth to direct the path of the chariot. No, the christian rider holds tightly to the reins, and allows the Holy Spirit to guide them. It is a peaceful ride, full of joy, even while facing much adversity. While the worldly rider goes through the race focused on manuevering his chariot, the christian rider is free to enjoy the journey, resting in the knowledge that the Holy Spirit will guide their path, and the burden will be light.
So the question remains, where do you place your trust?
While some may trust in man-made chariots, and others in the worldly horse, I will trust in the name of the Lord my God! ~Karen
If you would have quoted this verse to me one week ago, I would have told you I had never heard it. The Bible says that the Holy Spirit will guide and instruct us, and this week, the Holy Spirit had something to say to me! I heard this verse quoted or saw it written at least four times in the last week! When I mentioned this to my husband, he quickly replied - "It looks like God's trying to tell you something." So I have pondered this short and simple verse, meditating on its meaning and attempting to understand just what it is I am supposed to learn from it. Below is a brief analysis of my conclusion:
Some Trust in Chariots
A chariot was used in ancient times many times in battle or during a race. The rider would stand on the platform in the middle, with the wheel on the outside, and hold the reins of the horse pulling the chariot. The chariot itself was man-made, put together piece by piece by a craftsman. It might provide additional protection for the rider, as in the course of battle. Or it may also offer prestige with decadent decorations displaying the wealth of the owner. Just as ancient poeple trusted in chariots during the race or battle, today, people may also trust in "chariots" through the race course of life. These "chariots" are man-made things. They might be a home, a car, jewlery, toys, or many other items. They may believe that these items offer protection from life's battles. They give them a false hope of security, power, and comfort. These people take good care of their "chariots", they wash them on Sundays, they enter them in parades, they invite others to tour them, they lock them in safes. These "chariots" offer a ride through this life that is filled with the potholes of "never enough", the one-way road to "burdened", and the intersection where the roads of "one more", "bigger is better", "If I only had" and "one day" all meet. This chariot will carry the rider somewhere, but they never end up where they wanted to go.
Some Trust in Horses
In ancient times, the horse would be hitched to the chariot. The horse would have a bit attached to reins, and the chariot rider would steer the horse to make the chariot go where he wanted it to go. The horse had to be powerful to pull the weight of the chariot and to maintain endurance for the race or the battle. A good horse could make or break the outcome. The rider depended on the horse to pull the chariot. Without the horse, the rider would be a sitting duck for the enemy. The rider needed a horse who was not afraid to go into battle, or who would put forth the extra energy to win a race. The rider could not control the horses' internal desire to perform. The created horse itself would need to provide that security to the rider. Just as the rider was dependent upon the horse, people today put their trust in created things, things they cannot control. They look to the created world to offer them purpose and meaning. They let others guide thier path, and assume that this life on earth is all that matters, all that is eternal. They let their natural feelings and emotions take them where they want to go. The riders do not direct their lives with reins, but instead, they say, we should do what feels good, we should go where our internal desires take us. They trust in the things they see around them, and get advice and direction from the world.
But We Trust in the Name of the Lord Our God
So where does a Christian put their trust? Not in the chariot, the man-made item which could fall apart at any time. And not in the creature or the created things. A christian rider who is running the race of life places their trust in the Lord. The chariot we ride is not adorned with jewels and pearls, but it moves well, and smoothly among life's trials, safely keeping the rider on course. The chariot is the Word of God, offering us truth to stand on, a strong foundation. Like the worldly rider, the christian rider's chariot offers protection from the enemy. When faced with adversity, our chariot (the Word) delivers peace in the midst of battle, and encouragement through the race of life. Unlike the worldly rider and his horse, the christian rider does not fight with the reins, pulling the bit in the horse's mouth to direct the path of the chariot. No, the christian rider holds tightly to the reins, and allows the Holy Spirit to guide them. It is a peaceful ride, full of joy, even while facing much adversity. While the worldly rider goes through the race focused on manuevering his chariot, the christian rider is free to enjoy the journey, resting in the knowledge that the Holy Spirit will guide their path, and the burden will be light.
So the question remains, where do you place your trust?
While some may trust in man-made chariots, and others in the worldly horse, I will trust in the name of the Lord my God! ~Karen
Monday, December 22, 2008
Our Creator
I have been pondering this post for a while, and trying to find the time to write it down. A few weeks ago, we began to have snowfall that stuck. Returning from Thanksgiving vacation in Ariziona to a snowy wonderland, sure made it feel like Christmas. It was almost magical, a sense of peace and serenity in the stillness of winter. Immediately the verse: "The heavens declare the glory of God" (Psalm 19:1) came to mind. Ususally, when I think of that scripture I remember it as a proof that God exists. In my mind, I pair it with Romans 1:20 "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." This verse argues that we cannot deny that God exists, because it is clearly seen in creation all around us. I still agree with this original use of these scriptures, but I found myself wandering to another understanding.
This time, God seemed to plant on my heart, that the "glory of God" described in the Psalms not only has to do with the fact that He exists and created everything, but that Creation itself reflects the very nature of God. As I meditated on this perspective, I found the following applications delightfully revealing, and they cause me to stare in amazement at our creation in a new way. These are not new attributes to God. In fact, they are the common ones you may hear many times throughout the year. The actual attributes are not what encouraged me, but the fact that Creation reveals to us that they are true. Here are a few examples of the nature of God as described through Creation:
1. God enjoys creativity - one only has to look around to see that God is creative. He could have had one season but he chose four. Wouldn't one type of grass been sufficient? How about one type of beetle or worm? No, God wanted variety. He wanted to be creative. Thus, His Creation demonstrates his creativity. Is it any wonder that man, who is made in the image of God enjoys variety and creativity?
2. God holds all wisdom and knowledge - It would be impossible for Bill Gates to make a computer accomplish a task that he did not instruct it to do. The computer (or the creation) cannot hold attributes that it's creator does not possess. Obviously, even the most astute wisdom and deep knowledge cannot be greater than that of God's, for He created us. All of the scientific discoveries we have yet to make are known deeply by God. As humans, we have the tendency to think we are smarter than God. We think that we understand things better than He may. We decide that our method to resolve an issue makes more semse than His way. But we forget that our Lord knows everything, He possesses unlimited knowledge and wisdom. Relinquishing to his will is not surrendering to a weaker body, but allowing His wisdom and Grace to get it right the first time, without us getting in the way.
3. God is systematic, organized, disciplined - Look at nature around you! The various systems and processes are unbelieveable! Photosynthesis, seasons, tides, digestion, reproduction, muscular, erosion, volcanic, techtonics, weather patterns, solar systems, pollination, etc. These just name a few! God gave us the moon and sun, which follows a simple pattern that allows us to understand time. Can you imagine if this was an erratic event? What if we were not sure when it would be light again, or when it may be night? The systems He produced tell us that He is systematic! That he values consistency and order. "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace" (I Corinthians 14:33). In fact, disorder is associated with evil! "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice (James 3:16).
4. God experiences every emotion we can imagine - I could not create a painting unless I had possesion of the paint and paintbrush to apply to the canvas. In the same way, God has to be able to experience every emotion we ourselves posses. How could God give us the feeling of frustration if He himself had no idea what that was? No, God must possess those things which He has created in us. Although, we do need to remember that God gave us free will, as He has free will. However, he chooses righteousness and grace, and we choose sin. The sin in us is not the result of humans demonstrating the nature of God, but rather opposing and turning away from His nature, to the nature of evil. This comes from the Devil. We can rejoice though, for Christ has overcome this sinful nature! "Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you."(Romans 8:8-9)
5. God has power over life and death - When a flower blooms and dies, the life and death process itself must be contained within the power of God Himself. For how could God create life which dies unless He also could shut down life at his discretion. The systems that he creates such as the life systems demand that He holds the power over every step in that process. Therefore, He must have power over all life to bring living creatures and plants to life, but He must also have power over death to determine their lifespan. How much more can we believe in Christ's power over the cross, since it is confirmed daily, hourly, by the second in creation all around us??
So you see, Romans 1:19-20 "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse" takes on a whole new meaning too. Of course there is no excuse if we see the very nature of God all around us, in the simplest considerations of the creation! If we deny the Glory of God, His very attributes, revealed in this creation, how can we have any excuses? It is PLAIN to us! I am so glad that God made it plain to me, how everything around us shows how clearly we are created by our spiritual father, in the image of Him, with attributes granted through His power alone. How refreshing is the confidence and revealing truth God gave us, demonstrated through His creation. May you be mystified by the very nature of God revealed in creation. Love in Christ, Karen
This time, God seemed to plant on my heart, that the "glory of God" described in the Psalms not only has to do with the fact that He exists and created everything, but that Creation itself reflects the very nature of God. As I meditated on this perspective, I found the following applications delightfully revealing, and they cause me to stare in amazement at our creation in a new way. These are not new attributes to God. In fact, they are the common ones you may hear many times throughout the year. The actual attributes are not what encouraged me, but the fact that Creation reveals to us that they are true. Here are a few examples of the nature of God as described through Creation:
1. God enjoys creativity - one only has to look around to see that God is creative. He could have had one season but he chose four. Wouldn't one type of grass been sufficient? How about one type of beetle or worm? No, God wanted variety. He wanted to be creative. Thus, His Creation demonstrates his creativity. Is it any wonder that man, who is made in the image of God enjoys variety and creativity?
2. God holds all wisdom and knowledge - It would be impossible for Bill Gates to make a computer accomplish a task that he did not instruct it to do. The computer (or the creation) cannot hold attributes that it's creator does not possess. Obviously, even the most astute wisdom and deep knowledge cannot be greater than that of God's, for He created us. All of the scientific discoveries we have yet to make are known deeply by God. As humans, we have the tendency to think we are smarter than God. We think that we understand things better than He may. We decide that our method to resolve an issue makes more semse than His way. But we forget that our Lord knows everything, He possesses unlimited knowledge and wisdom. Relinquishing to his will is not surrendering to a weaker body, but allowing His wisdom and Grace to get it right the first time, without us getting in the way.
3. God is systematic, organized, disciplined - Look at nature around you! The various systems and processes are unbelieveable! Photosynthesis, seasons, tides, digestion, reproduction, muscular, erosion, volcanic, techtonics, weather patterns, solar systems, pollination, etc. These just name a few! God gave us the moon and sun, which follows a simple pattern that allows us to understand time. Can you imagine if this was an erratic event? What if we were not sure when it would be light again, or when it may be night? The systems He produced tell us that He is systematic! That he values consistency and order. "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace" (I Corinthians 14:33). In fact, disorder is associated with evil! "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice (James 3:16).
4. God experiences every emotion we can imagine - I could not create a painting unless I had possesion of the paint and paintbrush to apply to the canvas. In the same way, God has to be able to experience every emotion we ourselves posses. How could God give us the feeling of frustration if He himself had no idea what that was? No, God must possess those things which He has created in us. Although, we do need to remember that God gave us free will, as He has free will. However, he chooses righteousness and grace, and we choose sin. The sin in us is not the result of humans demonstrating the nature of God, but rather opposing and turning away from His nature, to the nature of evil. This comes from the Devil. We can rejoice though, for Christ has overcome this sinful nature! "Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you."(Romans 8:8-9)
5. God has power over life and death - When a flower blooms and dies, the life and death process itself must be contained within the power of God Himself. For how could God create life which dies unless He also could shut down life at his discretion. The systems that he creates such as the life systems demand that He holds the power over every step in that process. Therefore, He must have power over all life to bring living creatures and plants to life, but He must also have power over death to determine their lifespan. How much more can we believe in Christ's power over the cross, since it is confirmed daily, hourly, by the second in creation all around us??
So you see, Romans 1:19-20 "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse" takes on a whole new meaning too. Of course there is no excuse if we see the very nature of God all around us, in the simplest considerations of the creation! If we deny the Glory of God, His very attributes, revealed in this creation, how can we have any excuses? It is PLAIN to us! I am so glad that God made it plain to me, how everything around us shows how clearly we are created by our spiritual father, in the image of Him, with attributes granted through His power alone. How refreshing is the confidence and revealing truth God gave us, demonstrated through His creation. May you be mystified by the very nature of God revealed in creation. Love in Christ, Karen
Friday, November 14, 2008
Testing our Hearts
As people, don't we have the tendency to for get things? Especially positive things. I can think back to a few one-sentence comments from my dad when I was little that hurt my feelings and quote them to you. But I can't really quote any positive statements from him. Not because they weren't said, but because I didn't internalize them as much. There are a number of times in the Bible (especially in the Old Testament) where God tells us to "remember" all he has done for us. There are also other instances in the New Testament where the reader is reminded by the author of all the reighteous servants of God that have come before us, and how God's will has been accomplished from the beginning. God tells us this because He knows how quickly we forget the ways he has blessed us and kept his promises, but tend to "hang" on the times when we feel slighted or even ignored by God. Our hearts want to hold on to the negative, because we can blame someone else for the way things are going. We tend to absorb these ideas more readily because they offer us a way to slide out from responsibility - an excuse for our behavior, and for the sin we carry in the depths of our heart, longing to gain a foothold. In Genesis chapter 3, at the beginning of God's relationship with man, this foundational situation of our heart is revealed when the serpent enters the scene.....
Genesis 3:1-
"Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
Wow! The first thing Eve is enticed with is "Did God really say?". He questions Eve's memory. Did she hear God right when He told her not to eat of the fruit? Did she understand what God was really saying? Is it possible that God was not looking out for her best interests? The Serpent didn't come right out and face off with Eve, telling her that God was wrong and that she could eat the fruit - instead, he subtly had Eve questions who God is. I know that my personality may have reaceted the same way. When someone directly confronts me, I tend to get defensive and dig in my heels a bit. But if someone poses a question or a situation, I may ponder it, and it may have the ability to change my thoughts, which in turn determines my behavior.
Genesis 3:2-6
The woman said to the serpent, "We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, 'You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.' " "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it.
The second thing the serpent poses to Eve consists of a question regarding God's intention. Did God design the garden to protect Adam and Eve, to provide for them, or to control them? the serpent suggests that it was the latter. Eve, most likely following what was in her heart and lacking true discernment, chooses herself. She chooses to believe the serpent, who has offered her to become like God. She chooses power, knowledge, and ultimately, the lie.
When we have not laid a solid foundation of Truth under us, we are suceptible to any which way the wind blows. All types of false claims, lies, teachings. We become defenseless against anyone wishing to change our points of view. The serpent in this story was not just going about his life, and happened to impact Eve's decisions just from being in the same environment. No, he had evil intentions for her. He sought her out, and wanted to change her. He purposed in himself to try to cause harm to God by removing his child from him.
We still face that same enemy today. He may choose different mediums to reach us - instead of a serpent, a close friend; instead of an apple, materialism. But either way, he questions us the same way - "Did God really say?" "You will not surely die!" If we are not aware of this enemy, we may not recognize the true desires of his heart that are not meant for our good. We need to lay a foundation of truth to which we can test these evil spirits against, and we need to remember the truth of God's love for us, and his perfect will that has been accomplished since the beginning. Remember my children! Remember the Lord your God!
Lord, help me to compare all truth claims I face to your word and your very nature. Give me discernment when facing trials and temptation. Help me to hold fast to your word, believing that you are who you say you are, you can do what you say you can do, I am who you say that I am , I can do all things through your strength, and that your written Word is alive and active in me.
~Karen
Genesis 3:1-
"Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"
Wow! The first thing Eve is enticed with is "Did God really say?". He questions Eve's memory. Did she hear God right when He told her not to eat of the fruit? Did she understand what God was really saying? Is it possible that God was not looking out for her best interests? The Serpent didn't come right out and face off with Eve, telling her that God was wrong and that she could eat the fruit - instead, he subtly had Eve questions who God is. I know that my personality may have reaceted the same way. When someone directly confronts me, I tend to get defensive and dig in my heels a bit. But if someone poses a question or a situation, I may ponder it, and it may have the ability to change my thoughts, which in turn determines my behavior.
Genesis 3:2-6
The woman said to the serpent, "We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, 'You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.' " "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it.
The second thing the serpent poses to Eve consists of a question regarding God's intention. Did God design the garden to protect Adam and Eve, to provide for them, or to control them? the serpent suggests that it was the latter. Eve, most likely following what was in her heart and lacking true discernment, chooses herself. She chooses to believe the serpent, who has offered her to become like God. She chooses power, knowledge, and ultimately, the lie.
When we have not laid a solid foundation of Truth under us, we are suceptible to any which way the wind blows. All types of false claims, lies, teachings. We become defenseless against anyone wishing to change our points of view. The serpent in this story was not just going about his life, and happened to impact Eve's decisions just from being in the same environment. No, he had evil intentions for her. He sought her out, and wanted to change her. He purposed in himself to try to cause harm to God by removing his child from him.
We still face that same enemy today. He may choose different mediums to reach us - instead of a serpent, a close friend; instead of an apple, materialism. But either way, he questions us the same way - "Did God really say?" "You will not surely die!" If we are not aware of this enemy, we may not recognize the true desires of his heart that are not meant for our good. We need to lay a foundation of truth to which we can test these evil spirits against, and we need to remember the truth of God's love for us, and his perfect will that has been accomplished since the beginning. Remember my children! Remember the Lord your God!
Lord, help me to compare all truth claims I face to your word and your very nature. Give me discernment when facing trials and temptation. Help me to hold fast to your word, believing that you are who you say you are, you can do what you say you can do, I am who you say that I am , I can do all things through your strength, and that your written Word is alive and active in me.
~Karen
Monday, November 3, 2008
Resolutions
A few months ago, I began to start a list of resolutions - similar to what Johnathan Edwards had done (In fact, I borrowed a few of them). I post it here, as a reminder for me to uphold them. I probably fail on at least one of them daily, but transformation does not happen overnight, otherwise Paul wouldn't have used the term "renewing of your minds" but rather a "changed" mind. The term "renewing" alone seems to suggest more of a process than an event. It is the continual adaptation of our minds to the will of the Father. The list below is ever changing. Just as the brook follows the path set out for it, and tumbles over boulders to keep it's pace, so my journey of transformation seems to quicken at times and slow at times, falling and tripping over life's rocky points and boulders.
1. I will love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul and mind
2. I will pursue a relationship with God above all other things in life
3. I will spend time reading or hearing God’s word daily
4. I will pray throughout each day
5. I will end each day reflecting on what was good and what was bad, repenting of any sin or behavior which does not reflect the fruit of the spirit.
6. I will exhibit the fruit of the spirit
7. I will speak highly of my children and husband
8. I will speak highly of others, and remain silent if no good comments can be made
9. I will raise my children in the fear and admonition of the Lord
10. I will instruct my children with reality discipline and encouragement
11. I will serve others who need my service, joyfully, without personal gain
12. I will do things for the glory of God, and not for prideful ambition
13. I will be honest with myself and with others
14. When tempted to judge others, I will think of my own sinful state, and remember that I am a foul sinner, but by the Grace of God.
15. I will joyfully acknowledge God before others, and encourage them to assess the state of their soul, so they may share in my inheritance, and redeem themselves from judgment.
16. I will live each moment as if I may be facing judgment in front of God in the next hour
17. I will do what is right in the eyes of God, even when it may not be favorable in the eyes of man
18. I will maintain the strictest temperance in regards to eating and drinking
19. I will use the resources God has given me, such as money, abilities, time, etc. through good stewardship, knowing that they belong to the Lord, and I am just a watchman.
20. I will treat my body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. I will not speak poorly of that which God has created, but endeavor to use my body for God’s glory. I will pursue those behaviors which respect the body as God’s possession, building it up for longevity and enabling it to physically serve God’s mission even to old age.
21. I will stop complaining, and instead praise God.
22. I will memorize at least one new verse every week.
May God grant me the strength, endurance and wisdom to faithfully follow Him in righteousness. ~ Karen
The Resolutions of Karen Gill
Knowing that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and that no good comes from me, but from the Spirit, I humbly present the following resolutions in order to guide myself through discipline into that behavior which reflects the grace of God and brings others closer to Him.
Knowing that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and that no good comes from me, but from the Spirit, I humbly present the following resolutions in order to guide myself through discipline into that behavior which reflects the grace of God and brings others closer to Him.
1. I will love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul and mind
2. I will pursue a relationship with God above all other things in life
3. I will spend time reading or hearing God’s word daily
4. I will pray throughout each day
5. I will end each day reflecting on what was good and what was bad, repenting of any sin or behavior which does not reflect the fruit of the spirit.
6. I will exhibit the fruit of the spirit
7. I will speak highly of my children and husband
8. I will speak highly of others, and remain silent if no good comments can be made
9. I will raise my children in the fear and admonition of the Lord
10. I will instruct my children with reality discipline and encouragement
11. I will serve others who need my service, joyfully, without personal gain
12. I will do things for the glory of God, and not for prideful ambition
13. I will be honest with myself and with others
14. When tempted to judge others, I will think of my own sinful state, and remember that I am a foul sinner, but by the Grace of God.
15. I will joyfully acknowledge God before others, and encourage them to assess the state of their soul, so they may share in my inheritance, and redeem themselves from judgment.
16. I will live each moment as if I may be facing judgment in front of God in the next hour
17. I will do what is right in the eyes of God, even when it may not be favorable in the eyes of man
18. I will maintain the strictest temperance in regards to eating and drinking
19. I will use the resources God has given me, such as money, abilities, time, etc. through good stewardship, knowing that they belong to the Lord, and I am just a watchman.
20. I will treat my body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. I will not speak poorly of that which God has created, but endeavor to use my body for God’s glory. I will pursue those behaviors which respect the body as God’s possession, building it up for longevity and enabling it to physically serve God’s mission even to old age.
21. I will stop complaining, and instead praise God.
22. I will memorize at least one new verse every week.
May God grant me the strength, endurance and wisdom to faithfully follow Him in righteousness. ~ Karen
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Knowing God
Have you ever noticed that we tend to put God in a box? We develop an understanding of who we think God is, and then base our evaluations of Christianity against that perception. However, many times, the God we end up serving may not exactly be the God of the Bible. When the Bible says that God is Jealous, do we discard that description of him because we do not understand it? Do we cast away thoughts of a God who showed judgement in the Old Testament because we want to believe in a loving and forgiving God alone? Is it hard for us to reconcile a loving God with a God who demands Justice? I think sometimes as Christians, we fall into that trap, where we evaluate things based on experience, or on what we want to believe rather than what is. The Bible clearly shows us who God is. I know that since I began to try to discover the truth of the scripture regarding who God is, I have been surprised. In fact, at times I have even had to stop and "chew" on some descriptions or glimpses into the nature of God so that I could truly understand them. At times, I have found myself thinking, "no, that can't be right, that doesn't sound like the God I serve." Then God gently prompts my heart and says, "Know me, Karen". "I am who I say I am, not who you say that I am.
In Matthew 16:13-17, Jesus was talking to his disciples in the region of Caesarea Philippi. It sounds like Jesus was concerned about the very thing I describe above - our perceptions and understanding of God according to our own understanding, not that of scripture or truth, even among His own disciples. It must be something that is easy for believers to fall into - believing God is who we decide He is going to be, rather than who his Word has revealed Him to be.
(Matthew 16:13-17) "When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven."
Notice Jesus first asked, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?". Well, I know that I have heard people tell me all sorts of things about "God" that do not seem to be concurrent with scripture. I have also heard unbelievers describe the God of scripture as a mean and angry God, or others who decide that God is somewhere out there, and can take any form depending on what feels good to that individual. Is our perception of God influenced by what others describe him to be? Even from a trusted pastor, is that our only source of discovery when we search for the character of God? If we are to grow as Christians, it must not be this way. The truth of scripture must be written on our hearts. We cannot listen to what others describe God to be, we instead must discover that for ourselves, through the truth of scripture.
The second question Jesus asks, is just as important - "Who do you say that I am?" Are there aspects of God's nature you would rather not face? Have you discarded the complicated or unbecoming characteristics of God and traded them in for the ones that feel good, that reassure you? God calls us to know him in his entirety. This comes in a mature relationship with Him. I remember when I first met Brock, and I thought all of his characteristics were such blessings. As I grew in relationship with him, I learned more about him, and discovered additional things about his character. Some of these were hard for me to understand. They may not have been the way that I looked at things, the way that I thought things should be done, the "right" way to accomplish something in my opinion. I now see all of Brock's character - the things that are easy to understand and love, and the things that take more time and patience to fathom. It is similar with God. The more we build a relationship with Him , the more characteristics we become exposed to. The easy characteristics - God is loving, forgiving, full of mercy, get re-emphasized over time with harder characteristics, like God is Just, Jealous, and Gracious. These may be harder to understand, and they may even require some work, but they also reveal some of the greatest blessings on the character of God, if we take the time to believe that God is who he says he is, not who we say he is.
Jesus responds to Peter's accurate description of him by stating, "Blessed are you, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my father in heaven." Should it surprise us that when we seek answers to who God is from man, that we get conflicting views? Jesus said that his Father revealed it to Peter. Where do we find the revelation of God today? In scripture, and through the Holy Spirit who instructs us (John 14:26). We must commit to the reading of scripture and to seeking His face, on a personal basis. If we serve the God of the universe, the God of the Bible, then we must learn to accept all that God says that he is in his Word, regardless of our own personal views. In fact, when our old views are challenged through a new discovery of God's nature in the Bible, we should trace our resistance to that characteristic of God right back down to the rooted lie which has implanted itself into our hearts, so that we cannot fully understand who God is. We need to sweep out our old perceptions, and allow the true character of God to be revealed. It is not an easy process. Sometimes it requires a mind-decision over a heart one. Our heart may not want to accept certain facts about God, but we must ask ourselves if we are trying to serve a God of our design, or our true Savior. Let me choose the God of Truth every time!
I pray that as I discover who God truly is, and grow to know Him more, that He opens up my heart to fully fathom the depths of his character. May this knowledge bring only more glory to Him, and help to show others His saving grace. May I appreciate the miracle of his Word that He has given us by careful study of the scripture, and commitment to my heart. May the Lord bless any readers of this text, that they also may truly know Him. ~Karen
In Matthew 16:13-17, Jesus was talking to his disciples in the region of Caesarea Philippi. It sounds like Jesus was concerned about the very thing I describe above - our perceptions and understanding of God according to our own understanding, not that of scripture or truth, even among His own disciples. It must be something that is easy for believers to fall into - believing God is who we decide He is going to be, rather than who his Word has revealed Him to be.
(Matthew 16:13-17) "When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven."
Notice Jesus first asked, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?". Well, I know that I have heard people tell me all sorts of things about "God" that do not seem to be concurrent with scripture. I have also heard unbelievers describe the God of scripture as a mean and angry God, or others who decide that God is somewhere out there, and can take any form depending on what feels good to that individual. Is our perception of God influenced by what others describe him to be? Even from a trusted pastor, is that our only source of discovery when we search for the character of God? If we are to grow as Christians, it must not be this way. The truth of scripture must be written on our hearts. We cannot listen to what others describe God to be, we instead must discover that for ourselves, through the truth of scripture.
The second question Jesus asks, is just as important - "Who do you say that I am?" Are there aspects of God's nature you would rather not face? Have you discarded the complicated or unbecoming characteristics of God and traded them in for the ones that feel good, that reassure you? God calls us to know him in his entirety. This comes in a mature relationship with Him. I remember when I first met Brock, and I thought all of his characteristics were such blessings. As I grew in relationship with him, I learned more about him, and discovered additional things about his character. Some of these were hard for me to understand. They may not have been the way that I looked at things, the way that I thought things should be done, the "right" way to accomplish something in my opinion. I now see all of Brock's character - the things that are easy to understand and love, and the things that take more time and patience to fathom. It is similar with God. The more we build a relationship with Him , the more characteristics we become exposed to. The easy characteristics - God is loving, forgiving, full of mercy, get re-emphasized over time with harder characteristics, like God is Just, Jealous, and Gracious. These may be harder to understand, and they may even require some work, but they also reveal some of the greatest blessings on the character of God, if we take the time to believe that God is who he says he is, not who we say he is.
Jesus responds to Peter's accurate description of him by stating, "Blessed are you, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my father in heaven." Should it surprise us that when we seek answers to who God is from man, that we get conflicting views? Jesus said that his Father revealed it to Peter. Where do we find the revelation of God today? In scripture, and through the Holy Spirit who instructs us (John 14:26). We must commit to the reading of scripture and to seeking His face, on a personal basis. If we serve the God of the universe, the God of the Bible, then we must learn to accept all that God says that he is in his Word, regardless of our own personal views. In fact, when our old views are challenged through a new discovery of God's nature in the Bible, we should trace our resistance to that characteristic of God right back down to the rooted lie which has implanted itself into our hearts, so that we cannot fully understand who God is. We need to sweep out our old perceptions, and allow the true character of God to be revealed. It is not an easy process. Sometimes it requires a mind-decision over a heart one. Our heart may not want to accept certain facts about God, but we must ask ourselves if we are trying to serve a God of our design, or our true Savior. Let me choose the God of Truth every time!
I pray that as I discover who God truly is, and grow to know Him more, that He opens up my heart to fully fathom the depths of his character. May this knowledge bring only more glory to Him, and help to show others His saving grace. May I appreciate the miracle of his Word that He has given us by careful study of the scripture, and commitment to my heart. May the Lord bless any readers of this text, that they also may truly know Him. ~Karen
Monday, October 27, 2008
The Generations
The book of 2 Chronicles, was meant to "chronicle" the journey of God's chosen people from the establishment of Israel, it's separation, the turmoil in Israel & Judah, their ultimate destruction and exile, and how God brought them back to their land. It is a book written for the generations that came after to remind them of both their spiritual and physical heritage.
I have found this a fascinating story. Of course, some can look at it simply as a re-telling of the books of the bible that came before it. Nevertheless, I have enjoyed re-examining these facts knowing that this was speaking to those later generations. It makes me wonder, "What is my story to my children?" If someone wrote a book chronicling the generations that I fall into, what sort of things would be written? It makes me more interested in the story about the generations before me, and also inspires me to "leave a legacy" for my children that encourages them to follow Christ. The interesting thing, is that no matter what legacy we hand down, we can never be sure how this "torch" will be taken, and the race that will be run using it.
I turn to numerous examples of this from the book of 2 Chronicles. Beginning in chapter 28, we learn about a string of Kings in Judah, through a brief summary of their reign. The first King introduced in this chapter is King Ahaz, of Judah who "unlike David his father, he did not do right in the eyes of the Lord." His son Hezekiah succeeded him at age 25, and "he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, just like his father David had done." He took back the sanctuary, making it holy again, he called his people out of their idolatry, and called them back into sacrificial offerings. Hezekiah honored God, and so God blessed him. In fact, at the end of chapter 29, it states that "Hezekiah and all the people rejoiced at what God had brought about for his people, because it was done so quickly." What a substantial change that was for the nation of Judah between Hezekiah and his father Ahaz. This reminds me that no matter what things we bear from our past decisions, hurts, or environment, we can become different when we truly serve God!
Through chapters 30 & 32, 2 Chronicles goes on to tell the story about all Hezekiah did to restore the land and people to the Lord. However, after a long life of serving God, at the end of chapter 32, Hezekiah become proud of all "He" had accomplished, and the Lord's wrath was on him. He repented of his pride, and God took away his wrath. Even after serving the Lord faithfully for so many years, Hezekiah fell in the eyes of the Lord. However, it is not the fact that he fell, but that Hezekiah recognized his failure and repented of it to the Lord. It is refreshing to know that if we fall, we can acknowledge our sin and repent to the Lord, who forgives us.
After Hezekiah, his son Menasseh becomes King. Talk about stark contrast, Menasseh does evil in the eyes of the Lord following all sorts of detestable practices. How can a child reared with a father figure like Hezekiah immediately change the entire course of the kingdom to evil? He had a great role model, who seemed to "talk the talk and walk the walk", and yet still, Menasseh was unfaithful to the Lord. This question haunts me. If I train my children faithfully to know God, there is no assurance that they won't behave like Menasseh. How frustrating this must be as a parent! I can't imagine what Hezekiah would have thought. Everything he had worked hard to change from his predeccessor Ahaz, was being reverted right back to evil by his son! When the Lord called to him at first, neither him or his people would listen. So the Lord brought destruction upon him, and in his distress, Menasseh sought the favor of the Lord, and humbled himself before him. Isn't that just the case? We go about doing what we want to do thinking that we are in control, in authority. Then calamity strikes and we seek to find power in something bigger than ourselves. We realize we don't have it all under our control. It is refreshing that Menasseh, having fallen away from his Christian upbringing, eventually turns to God. Perhaps those parents who have children who have wandered can find comfort in the story of Menasseh. Perhaps it is their example along that teaches that child where to turn once the calamity strikes that brings them close to the Lord.
Amon, Menasseh's son succeeded him for 2 years and did evil, refusing to humble himself to the Lord. His own people conspired against him and killed him, and Josiah, Amon's son succeeded him. Josiah became king at eight years old. "He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and walked in the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left." I really like the story of Josiah, and how he faithfully served the Lord. You can find his story in 2 Chronicles chapters 34 & 35.
2 Chronicles interests me because it shows repeatedly how generation after generation serves and turns away from God. We have much to learn from this book of the Bible. What kind of leader in God's kingdom will you be? Who will you offer service to? In whom will you palce your trust? If you were given power and authority, would you yeild it to your creator? Or would the power and prestige end up going to your head and overthrow you? Do we pridefully call our successes our own? When we do, do we repent immediately like Hezekiah?
Lord I pray that my life on earth bring glory to you. I pray that all I accomplish be done in your name alone, and that any and all sin that I may have be revealed and repented of. I ask for your help in opening my eyes to see what is not favorable to you Lord. Some of the kings above served you, but left the hgih places in tact, or didn't remove idols from the people. Help me to live out your precious will in all areas of my life, and to expect others to be accountable to you alone, regardless of the personal persecution that may befall me from such a stance.
I have found this a fascinating story. Of course, some can look at it simply as a re-telling of the books of the bible that came before it. Nevertheless, I have enjoyed re-examining these facts knowing that this was speaking to those later generations. It makes me wonder, "What is my story to my children?" If someone wrote a book chronicling the generations that I fall into, what sort of things would be written? It makes me more interested in the story about the generations before me, and also inspires me to "leave a legacy" for my children that encourages them to follow Christ. The interesting thing, is that no matter what legacy we hand down, we can never be sure how this "torch" will be taken, and the race that will be run using it.
I turn to numerous examples of this from the book of 2 Chronicles. Beginning in chapter 28, we learn about a string of Kings in Judah, through a brief summary of their reign. The first King introduced in this chapter is King Ahaz, of Judah who "unlike David his father, he did not do right in the eyes of the Lord." His son Hezekiah succeeded him at age 25, and "he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, just like his father David had done." He took back the sanctuary, making it holy again, he called his people out of their idolatry, and called them back into sacrificial offerings. Hezekiah honored God, and so God blessed him. In fact, at the end of chapter 29, it states that "Hezekiah and all the people rejoiced at what God had brought about for his people, because it was done so quickly." What a substantial change that was for the nation of Judah between Hezekiah and his father Ahaz. This reminds me that no matter what things we bear from our past decisions, hurts, or environment, we can become different when we truly serve God!
Through chapters 30 & 32, 2 Chronicles goes on to tell the story about all Hezekiah did to restore the land and people to the Lord. However, after a long life of serving God, at the end of chapter 32, Hezekiah become proud of all "He" had accomplished, and the Lord's wrath was on him. He repented of his pride, and God took away his wrath. Even after serving the Lord faithfully for so many years, Hezekiah fell in the eyes of the Lord. However, it is not the fact that he fell, but that Hezekiah recognized his failure and repented of it to the Lord. It is refreshing to know that if we fall, we can acknowledge our sin and repent to the Lord, who forgives us.
After Hezekiah, his son Menasseh becomes King. Talk about stark contrast, Menasseh does evil in the eyes of the Lord following all sorts of detestable practices. How can a child reared with a father figure like Hezekiah immediately change the entire course of the kingdom to evil? He had a great role model, who seemed to "talk the talk and walk the walk", and yet still, Menasseh was unfaithful to the Lord. This question haunts me. If I train my children faithfully to know God, there is no assurance that they won't behave like Menasseh. How frustrating this must be as a parent! I can't imagine what Hezekiah would have thought. Everything he had worked hard to change from his predeccessor Ahaz, was being reverted right back to evil by his son! When the Lord called to him at first, neither him or his people would listen. So the Lord brought destruction upon him, and in his distress, Menasseh sought the favor of the Lord, and humbled himself before him. Isn't that just the case? We go about doing what we want to do thinking that we are in control, in authority. Then calamity strikes and we seek to find power in something bigger than ourselves. We realize we don't have it all under our control. It is refreshing that Menasseh, having fallen away from his Christian upbringing, eventually turns to God. Perhaps those parents who have children who have wandered can find comfort in the story of Menasseh. Perhaps it is their example along that teaches that child where to turn once the calamity strikes that brings them close to the Lord.
Amon, Menasseh's son succeeded him for 2 years and did evil, refusing to humble himself to the Lord. His own people conspired against him and killed him, and Josiah, Amon's son succeeded him. Josiah became king at eight years old. "He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and walked in the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left." I really like the story of Josiah, and how he faithfully served the Lord. You can find his story in 2 Chronicles chapters 34 & 35.
2 Chronicles interests me because it shows repeatedly how generation after generation serves and turns away from God. We have much to learn from this book of the Bible. What kind of leader in God's kingdom will you be? Who will you offer service to? In whom will you palce your trust? If you were given power and authority, would you yeild it to your creator? Or would the power and prestige end up going to your head and overthrow you? Do we pridefully call our successes our own? When we do, do we repent immediately like Hezekiah?
Lord I pray that my life on earth bring glory to you. I pray that all I accomplish be done in your name alone, and that any and all sin that I may have be revealed and repented of. I ask for your help in opening my eyes to see what is not favorable to you Lord. Some of the kings above served you, but left the hgih places in tact, or didn't remove idols from the people. Help me to live out your precious will in all areas of my life, and to expect others to be accountable to you alone, regardless of the personal persecution that may befall me from such a stance.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Captivity
In 2 Chronicles chapter 6, King Solomon offers up a prayer of dedication for the temple he has built for the Lord. Below is a section of verses selected from that prayer:
2 Chronicles 6:36-39 "When they sin against you—for there is no one who does not sin—and you become angry with them and give them over to the enemy, who takes them captive to a land far away or near; and if they have a change of heart in the land where they are held captive, and repent and plead with you in the land of their captivity and say, 'We have sinned, we have done wrong and acted wickedly'; and if they turn back to you with all their heart and soul in the land of their captivity where they were taken, and pray toward the land you gave their fathers, toward the city you have chosen and toward the temple I have built for your Name; then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear their prayer and their pleas, and uphold their cause. And forgive your people, who have sinned against you."
Solomon definitely had a heart for his people, and an understanding of them. He notes that there is no one who does not sin, and asks the Lord to forgive them. These verses struck me today as I thought about people today. Re-read the passage above, and think of it applying to someone today, even to a believer. Do you know anyone that had an understanding of the Lord and yet the enemy has taken them captive? I know I do. In this prayer, the enemy was most likely other nations that would eventually conquer the future Israel and Judah territory. However, today we still face enemies. You might specifically identify this enemy as satan, who plots to draw people out of Christ, and into the world. It may be that the enemy that takes us captive is actually greed, fame, notoriety, or any distraction of this world. Colossians 2:8 reads "See to it, that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophies that depend on human traditions and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." Have we been taken captive by hollow and deceptive philosophies? Evolution, materialism, self-sufficiency, the "it's all about me" mindset that is prevalent throughout our culture right now, - have any of these taken you captive? What about financial burdens? I can think of so many things that are part of this world that might take someone - including Christians - captive. We should ask ourselves, am I in captivity to anything or anyone?
In the section of Solomons prayer that I have identified above, he prays for people taken captive. One interesting thing to note, is that he first addresses who this captive might be. He uses the word "when" we sin against God. Not "if", not "those who sin", but "when" we sin. He goes on to say that this clearly applies to all humans, as there are none who do not sin. Solomon mentions that the Lord becomes angry when we sin (it appears he is addressing sin without remorse, even possibly habitual sin). The result of this anger is that God lets the enemy draw them in. Now, first we must address that the Lord is not the enemy. He is not making them be taken captive, he instead allows it to happen. Personally, I know I can do a pretty good job of getting myself into trouble, and praise the Lord that he protects me from some of my own undoing. When we choose to sin against God, he may remove the blessings he has given us, and allow us to be taken captive by those things we pursue. Remember that Solomon is talking about the captivity of EVERY believer and unbeliever. While the fact that we all might be captives at some point might be a tough pill to swallow, Solomon's prayer also offers some hope.
His prayer asks for the Lord to show mercy to those who are taken captive, and to forgive them, but it also outlines major steps on the part of the captive. So what are these conditions? Solomon outlines them as follows:
- have a change of heart
- repent and plead with the Lord
- Say, 'I have sinned, I have done wrong and acted wickedly'
- Turn back to the Lord with all your heart and soul
- pray to the Lord
And the promise which comes as a result of the above? Verse 39 states (paraphrased), "Then from heaven, his dwelling place, the Lord will hear your prayer and your pleas, and uphold your cause. And forgive His people, who have sinned against Him."
What a blessing that is! My friend, know that in the depths of captivity, the Lord is there! We must only turn to him, and away from our captors! But how do we do this? First of all, it is crucial that we recognize what and who it is that has taken us captive. We need to wage war against this enemy. However, this is a spiritual battle, not a physical one. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." Isn't it refreshing to know that our spiritual weapons through Christ and the Hold Spirit have divine power? THEY can demolish those strongholds, THEY can battle through the cultural lies we have bought into that are affecting our success in the Lord. However, that doesn't mean that we ask the Holy SPirit to get to work, and then run away from those sins. In greade school, we learn that running away only leads to a chase. No, leaving beihind those sins will not free you from them, for you may find yourself back as a captive to them down the road. Instead, Paul goes on to urge us by stating, that WE take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. See, we must turn around and face our captors. Face the lies that we have bought into, face the deception from the Devil, and bind them up! We must overcome our enemy by leaning on our strength from the Holy Spirit, who offers a defense for us. You see, our freedom in Christ includes not only freedom from the captivity and the sin we struggle with, but protection from the captor!
Lord, help me to identify any areas of my life that have been taken captive. Awaken me to the lies I have bought from our culture and from Satan, and give me the power to overcome them through your Holy Spirit. Father, I ask for your blessings on other believers, those who may have heard the gospel, but have fallen away. I pray that you may reach them in the depths of despair and struggle, in their dungeon of captivity, and call them home to you. May their hearts repent and pray to you, knowing that true freedom can only be found in Christ. Amen.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Begin the Work!
An earlier post entitled "Humility" began the discussion about King David. I mentioned how he had wanted to build a temple for the Lord, but the Lord told him that his son Solomon would build the temple. After David gathers much of the materials for the temple, he calls his son aside, and gives him the following speech:
1 Chronicles 22:11-13 "Now, my son, the LORD be with you, and may you have success and build the house of the LORD your God, as he said you would. May the LORD give you discretion and understanding when he puts you in command over Israel, so that you may keep the law of the LORD your God. Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the LORD gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged."
What a wonderful blessing and prayer David bestows on his son Solomon. He addresses his own desire that the building of the temple be successful. He asks Solomon to stay committed to God, and ends his blessing in love, with true concern for his son. I believe God is telling us the same thing as believers. After our conversion, the Holy Spirit works within us to prepare us for a great task - the challenge of accomplishing God's will in our lives. He tells us, "I am with you, may you have success in the task I have given you. May you look to me for discretion and understanding so that you may keep my commandments. Then you will have success. Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or discouraged." What an amazing blessing God's love and compassion is for us! Let us take hold of it!David continues his speech to Solomon in 1 Chronicles 21:14-16. He states, "I have taken great pains to provide for the temple of the LORD a hundred thousand talents of gold, a million talents of silver, quantities of bronze and iron too great to be weighed, and wood and stone. And you may add to them. You have many workmen: stonecutters, masons and carpenters, as well as men skilled in every kind of work in gold and silver, bronze and iron—craftsmen beyond number. Now begin the work, and the LORD be with you."
David reminds Solomon that he has gathered all of the materials and resources that Solomon needs to accomplish his task. He then encourages him to GET BUILDING! Guess what? The Lord tells us the same thing. He reminds us that he has given us the gifts and resources that we need to accomplish the task that He has given us. He wants us to remember that he will provide everything that we need, if we stay focus on Him, and on the mission he has given us. The Lord then says, "OK, you are prepared, I have given you my Holy Spirit, I have equipped you with the knowledge of me, NOW GET TO WORK!" How many times is our response like that of a child (although Solomon took hold of the great task and accomplished it well.) We argue, I am not ready yet. I need more time, more money, more resources. I need more direction. I will wait until I have read through the Bible. I will wait until the kids are in school. Once my job slows down......once I get my bills caught up......once I..... and on, and on, and on. We all have excuses. They might not even feel like excuses. They might be the result of fear. Fear of failure, lack of self-confidence, lack of complete trust in God. Whatever it is that is holding us back, we should cast it off! God has given us all that we need. He awaits for us to begin the work!
1 Chronicles 21:17-19.... Then David ordered all the leaders of Israel to help his son Solomon. He said to them, "Is not the LORD your God with you? And has he not granted you rest on every side? For he has handed the inhabitants of the land over to me, and the land is subject to the LORD and to his people. Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the LORD your God. Begin to build the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that you may bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the sacred articles belonging to God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the LORD."
David reminds the people of God's faithfulness in the past. He opens their eyes to the works that God promised and accomplished for them, then asks them to return the favor, so to speak, by trusting in God. Like David, God says, "remember the promises I gave to your people? Remember how I delivered what I promised? Remember how I called you out of ruin? Remember how I have granted you blessings in this life? Do you understand that all good things come from me? Then have no fear! Devote your heart and soul to seeking me! Do not be afraid to let go of control, and let the Holy Spirit accomplish his work! Set your minds to accomplish the mission God has called you to. Begin the work! Start now, do not delay, for I am with you!Lord, help me to let go of any fear or excuses that hold me back from accomplishing your will. Let me remove any man-made obstacles I have in my life that prevent me from moving towards this goal. Develop in me the desire to follow you no matter what, to ignore the complications and distractions of this world. Grant me wisdom to understand those things that are meant for good in my life, and those things that keep me from fulfilling my purpose. Lord, let me have a heart like David. Help me to listen to the words of wisdom he gave his son Solomon, and hear your voice through the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
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