"How long, O Lord? Will You be angry forever? Will Your jealousy burn like fire?” (v.5)
This psalm written by Asaph, displays his overwhelming grief for the destruction of Jerusalem (vv.1-4). Speaking for the nation, the psalmist petitions the Lord God to remember His people and to avenge their enemies actions (vv. 5–7). But in the same breath, he questions the duration of God’s chastisement for their sin, “How long, Oh Lord” (v.5,) along with the severity of His judgment, “Burns like fire” (v.5).
There’s a old saying, “let the punishment fit the crime.” Some mistakes call for a “pass”, others a stern warning, while still others something more punitive that is designed to save one from serious repercussions over time. The transgressions by the Israelites called for the latter. Over and over again the children of Israel were warned of their sinful ways, to repent from their evil doings, and dwell in the land that the Lord their God had given them (Jeremiah 25:1-11). Yet, they did not listen. Therefore, the land was laid waste, and the people taken captive by the Babylonians, whom they served for 70 years.
While I'm sure we have all asked the same question at times in our lives, the following parable may help in understanding the value of long-suffering. A bar of iron, worth $1.30, when wrought into horseshoes, is worth $2.60; if made into needles, it is worth $91.00; if into pen-knife blades, it is worth $845.00; if into springs for watches, it is worth $65,000.00. Proving, the more it is manipulated, the more it is hammered and passed through the fire, and beaten, and pounded, and polished, the greater its value.
So it is with us. Those that suffer most are capable of yielding most; and it is through pain that God is getting the most out of us for his glory and the blessing of others. Therefore, forgive us Lord if sometimes we forget about Your work in our lives and ask, How long?
The Truth: "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” (2 Corinthians 4:17)
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Monday, July 30, 2018
Psalm 78 “God Is Merciful”
“But He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and did not destroy them. Yes, many a time He turned His anger away, and did not stir up all His wrath; for He remembered that they were but flesh, a breath that passes away and does not come again.” (vv.38-39)
Here in psalm 78 the psalmist (Asaph) recaps most of the Old Testament from Exodus through 2 Samuel. It was written as a psalm of instruction to be passed down from generation to generation concerning God’s mercy to His people. The theme is that God blessed the Israelites, but after a while they forgot about God’s blessings and turned away from him. Then, God would discipline His children so they would repent and turn back to Him. However, they would soon forget and turn away from God once more, starting the cycle all over again. Sound familiar?
Like these people, we all have a tendency to drift away from the Lord, to loose our way at some point. But thank God for His mercies which are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22), and the forgiveness of our iniquities if we but ask (1 John 1:9). Does that mean we will escape discipline? No! Like any loving father God will discipline His children, to bring them back into a loving relationship. Does it mean we have a license to sin all we want? Again, no! "If we identify with Christ and have fellowship with Him, how can we (purposely) live in sin?” (Romans 6:1-2) And therein lies the problem for many people, they just do not want to give up there sin.
The Bible tells us that, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. That whosoever believes in Him shall never perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and that"God is not willing that any should perish” (2 Peter 3:9). Through these few scriptures and our text, we can see His pity and compassion for His people. He remembers our frames, knowing that we are but dust. The text also indicates He never gives up on us and is willing to forgive us time and time again for our human frailties.
I thank God for His long-suffering with me through my many failures in life and His continued mercy which I freely receive in my nightly confessions to Him. Thank you Lord for your endless mercy and the chastening of those you love.
The Truth: "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)
Here in psalm 78 the psalmist (Asaph) recaps most of the Old Testament from Exodus through 2 Samuel. It was written as a psalm of instruction to be passed down from generation to generation concerning God’s mercy to His people. The theme is that God blessed the Israelites, but after a while they forgot about God’s blessings and turned away from him. Then, God would discipline His children so they would repent and turn back to Him. However, they would soon forget and turn away from God once more, starting the cycle all over again. Sound familiar?
Like these people, we all have a tendency to drift away from the Lord, to loose our way at some point. But thank God for His mercies which are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22), and the forgiveness of our iniquities if we but ask (1 John 1:9). Does that mean we will escape discipline? No! Like any loving father God will discipline His children, to bring them back into a loving relationship. Does it mean we have a license to sin all we want? Again, no! "If we identify with Christ and have fellowship with Him, how can we (purposely) live in sin?” (Romans 6:1-2) And therein lies the problem for many people, they just do not want to give up there sin.
The Bible tells us that, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. That whosoever believes in Him shall never perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and that"God is not willing that any should perish” (2 Peter 3:9). Through these few scriptures and our text, we can see His pity and compassion for His people. He remembers our frames, knowing that we are but dust. The text also indicates He never gives up on us and is willing to forgive us time and time again for our human frailties.
I thank God for His long-suffering with me through my many failures in life and His continued mercy which I freely receive in my nightly confessions to Him. Thank you Lord for your endless mercy and the chastening of those you love.
The Truth: "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)
Saturday, July 28, 2018
Psalm 77 “Who Has Changed?”
“Will the Lord cast off forever? And will He be favorable no more? Has His mercy ceased forever? Has His promised failed forevermore?” Has He in His anger shut up His tender mercies? Selah. (vv.7-9)
After asking a series of questions about God, the psalmist writes “Selah,” which is an indicator that we are to stop and consider the things we are reading. If God has loved us in the past, and we find ourselves in difficult times now, what are the chances that His attitude toward us has changed? This subject, can God’s character change, is worth stopping to consider. Of course the answer is no! One of God’s fundamental character traits is that He is, unchanging. If we find ourselves in the midst of trials, doubting God’s character, thinking He has changed, we need to stop and ask ourselves, who has really changed?
Consider the following. A young teenage girl was complaining to her father, a Chinese chef, about the hardships in her life. He looked at her a moment and then took her to the kitchen. He filled 3 pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to a boil. In the first pot he placed carrots, in the second eggs, and the third, ground coffee beans. He watched them boil, without saying a word. The daughter waited, wondering what he was doing. After 20 minutes, he turned off the burners, fished out the carrots, and placed them in a bowl. He did the same with the eggs, placing them a bowl; and the coffee, pouring it into a bowl. Turning to her he asked, “Daughter, what do you see.” “Carrots, eggs, and coffee,” she replied. The father explained, “Look carefully; they’ve all changed. Each of them faced the same adversity, boiling water, but each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong and hard, but came out weak and soft. The egg went in fragile, just a thin outer shell; but came out hard inside. The coffee beans however were unique; instead of being changed by the boiling water, they changed the water. Which are you?”
When adversity knocks on your door, how will you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean? If we trust in the Lord and believe His promises to us, then even in difficult times, we can change the taste of the water around us, and give off an aroma that transforms the environment.
The Truth: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
After asking a series of questions about God, the psalmist writes “Selah,” which is an indicator that we are to stop and consider the things we are reading. If God has loved us in the past, and we find ourselves in difficult times now, what are the chances that His attitude toward us has changed? This subject, can God’s character change, is worth stopping to consider. Of course the answer is no! One of God’s fundamental character traits is that He is, unchanging. If we find ourselves in the midst of trials, doubting God’s character, thinking He has changed, we need to stop and ask ourselves, who has really changed?
Consider the following. A young teenage girl was complaining to her father, a Chinese chef, about the hardships in her life. He looked at her a moment and then took her to the kitchen. He filled 3 pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to a boil. In the first pot he placed carrots, in the second eggs, and the third, ground coffee beans. He watched them boil, without saying a word. The daughter waited, wondering what he was doing. After 20 minutes, he turned off the burners, fished out the carrots, and placed them in a bowl. He did the same with the eggs, placing them a bowl; and the coffee, pouring it into a bowl. Turning to her he asked, “Daughter, what do you see.” “Carrots, eggs, and coffee,” she replied. The father explained, “Look carefully; they’ve all changed. Each of them faced the same adversity, boiling water, but each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong and hard, but came out weak and soft. The egg went in fragile, just a thin outer shell; but came out hard inside. The coffee beans however were unique; instead of being changed by the boiling water, they changed the water. Which are you?”
When adversity knocks on your door, how will you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean? If we trust in the Lord and believe His promises to us, then even in difficult times, we can change the taste of the water around us, and give off an aroma that transforms the environment.
The Truth: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Thursday, July 26, 2018
Psalm 76 “A Psalm of Deliverance”
“In Judah God is known; His name is great in Israel. In Salem also is His tabernacle, and His dwelling place in Zion. There He broke the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword of battle.” (vv.1-3)
This psalm is a song of praise for deliverance from an enemy. Evidently written on some occasion when an attack had been made on "Salem," that is, on Jerusalem, and the was enemy driven back. While the occasion is unknown; the meaning is, that God drove the invading army back, and showed his power in defending the city.
Many of the circumstances in the psalm would agree well with the account of the invasion of the Assyrians under Sennacherib. At that time, the Assyrians besieged Jerusalem and it seemed as though nothing could stop them - until God sent a single angel into the Assyrian camp and killed 185,000 while they slept (2 Kings 19). The result of this great deliverance would have definitely caused the people of Jerusalem, both sinner and saint, to fear and reverence the LORD at the display of His power.
As Christians, God is known in us, and His name is great in our lives. His tabernacle is in our hearts, and His Sprit makes it His dwelling place. Therefore, when we are under siege by the enemy His deliverance is but a prayer away, for He hears the cries of His people.
The Truth: “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them, and delivers them from all their troubles.” (Psalm 34:17)
This psalm is a song of praise for deliverance from an enemy. Evidently written on some occasion when an attack had been made on "Salem," that is, on Jerusalem, and the was enemy driven back. While the occasion is unknown; the meaning is, that God drove the invading army back, and showed his power in defending the city.
Many of the circumstances in the psalm would agree well with the account of the invasion of the Assyrians under Sennacherib. At that time, the Assyrians besieged Jerusalem and it seemed as though nothing could stop them - until God sent a single angel into the Assyrian camp and killed 185,000 while they slept (2 Kings 19). The result of this great deliverance would have definitely caused the people of Jerusalem, both sinner and saint, to fear and reverence the LORD at the display of His power.
As Christians, God is known in us, and His name is great in our lives. His tabernacle is in our hearts, and His Sprit makes it His dwelling place. Therefore, when we are under siege by the enemy His deliverance is but a prayer away, for He hears the cries of His people.
The Truth: “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them, and delivers them from all their troubles.” (Psalm 34:17)
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Psalm 75 “A Psalm of Thanks”
"To you, O God, do we give thanks, to you do we give thanks: for that your name is near your wondrous works declare.” (v.1)
This Psalm written by Asaph is a song of thanksgiving for the recent manifestation of God’s presence and power among His people. It also states the His wondrous works show that He is near.
How often do we as Christians give thanks to God for His presence and workings in our lives? Probably not often enough. And there are probably just as many times in our lives when we experienced divine intervention and never saw it as such to give thanks. But, never-the-less, whether aware of it or not, He was near. That near miss on the freeway, that small voice cautioning you, or a feeling that comes over you at just the right moment.
I encourage you, take a close look back over your life and I’m sure you will find God’s presence and power at work in it. Then, as Asaph did, give thanks to Him for being near, and for His protection, provision, and great miracles of deliverance.
The Truth: “Give thanks to the LORD for He is good; His love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1)
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Psalm 74 “Remember Us!”
"O God, why have you rejected us forever? Why does your anger smolder against the sheep of your pasture? Remember the nation you purchased long ago, the people of your inheritance, whom you redeemed—Mount Zion, where you dwelt. Turn your steps toward these everlasting ruins, all this destruction the enemy has brought on the sanctuary.” (vv.1-3)
Many Bible commentators believe this psalm records the destruction of the temple by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 B.C. The psalmist (Asaph) was asking God to not forget His people and Mount Zion, where the temple once stood, to remember His covenant with Israel, and to save His nation. In this psalm (from the Babylonian captivity era), the psalmist records how many cried out to God to spare them, but He did not deliver them for many years. He of course hadn’t forgotten them, but had prescribed 70 years of captivity to discipline them for ignoring His word (Jeremiah 25:8-11).
To be clear, God doesn’t forget anything unless He chooses to. The one thing He does choose to forget is our sins - which are put away from us the moment we confess them to God. When God forgives us, He blots out our sins, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12). And then forgets them, “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more” (Hebrews 8:12).
Though it may seem that at certain times and seasons in our lives we are forgotten. I can assure you, we are not! God is there, and like Israel, we will be spared - in His time and for His purpose. Therefore, keep your faith my friend, "Be strong and of good courage," He does remember you!
The Truth: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
Many Bible commentators believe this psalm records the destruction of the temple by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 B.C. The psalmist (Asaph) was asking God to not forget His people and Mount Zion, where the temple once stood, to remember His covenant with Israel, and to save His nation. In this psalm (from the Babylonian captivity era), the psalmist records how many cried out to God to spare them, but He did not deliver them for many years. He of course hadn’t forgotten them, but had prescribed 70 years of captivity to discipline them for ignoring His word (Jeremiah 25:8-11).
To be clear, God doesn’t forget anything unless He chooses to. The one thing He does choose to forget is our sins - which are put away from us the moment we confess them to God. When God forgives us, He blots out our sins, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12). And then forgets them, “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more” (Hebrews 8:12).
Though it may seem that at certain times and seasons in our lives we are forgotten. I can assure you, we are not! God is there, and like Israel, we will be spared - in His time and for His purpose. Therefore, keep your faith my friend, "Be strong and of good courage," He does remember you!
The Truth: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
Monday, July 23, 2018
Friday, July 20, 2018
Psalm 72 “David’s Prayer”
"Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king’s son. He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment.” (vv.1-2)
This Psalm was most likely written by David for his son Solomon, who would exceed him to the throne. In our text David prays for his son asking God to give him His wisdom (judgment), and His righteousness, that he may judge the people rightly. This portion of David’s prayer would be answered, as Solomon would indeed be known for his wisdom in judgment. But, there is another whom this psalm also speaks of. Someone Greater than David, and the kingdom He will establish that will usher in peace and prosperity - the Son of David, the son of Jesse, Jesus Christ (Luke 3:23-38).
Though Solomon’s reign was blessed, when Jesus reigns, He will bring; peace to the people and justice to the poor (v. 3). He will save the children of the needy, and will break into pieces the oppressor (v. 4). In His days prosperity will endure for 1,000 years (v. 7). He will have dominion from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth (v.8). All kings will fall down before Him; All nations shall serve Him (v. 11). Men shall also be blessed in Him, and all nations shall call Him blessed (v.17). And on that day when Jesus comes again, the whole earth will be filled with His glory (v.19), and this psalm of the son of Jesse will be fulfilled.
The Truth: "For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.” (Habakkuk 2:14)
This Psalm was most likely written by David for his son Solomon, who would exceed him to the throne. In our text David prays for his son asking God to give him His wisdom (judgment), and His righteousness, that he may judge the people rightly. This portion of David’s prayer would be answered, as Solomon would indeed be known for his wisdom in judgment. But, there is another whom this psalm also speaks of. Someone Greater than David, and the kingdom He will establish that will usher in peace and prosperity - the Son of David, the son of Jesse, Jesus Christ (Luke 3:23-38).
Though Solomon’s reign was blessed, when Jesus reigns, He will bring; peace to the people and justice to the poor (v. 3). He will save the children of the needy, and will break into pieces the oppressor (v. 4). In His days prosperity will endure for 1,000 years (v. 7). He will have dominion from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth (v.8). All kings will fall down before Him; All nations shall serve Him (v. 11). Men shall also be blessed in Him, and all nations shall call Him blessed (v.17). And on that day when Jesus comes again, the whole earth will be filled with His glory (v.19), and this psalm of the son of Jesse will be fulfilled.
The Truth: "For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.” (Habakkuk 2:14)
Thursday, July 19, 2018
Jude “Defending the Truth”
"For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.” (v.4)
Jude’s purpose in his letter was twofold: 1) he wanted to expose the fase teachers that had infiltrated the Christian community, and 2) he wanted to encourage Christians to stand firm in the faith and fight for the truth. Jude recognized that false teachers often peddled their wares unnoticed by the faithful, so he worked to heighten the awareness of the believers by describing in vivid detail how terrible dissenters actually were.
But, more than simply raising awareness, Jude thought it important that believers stand against those working against Jesus Christ. Believers were to do this by; remembering the teaching of the apostles (v.17-19), building each other up in the faith (v.20a), praying in the Holy Spirit (v.20b), and keeping themselves in the love of God (v.21).
What a great example for us to follow today on how to “defend the truth.” Yes there will always be those who will look to distort the truth, but we need follow Jude’s exhortation of; keeping ourselves in the love of God, in prayer, in fellowship, and in His Word - Ready to defend the truth.
The Truth: “Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” (1 Peter 3:15)
Jude’s purpose in his letter was twofold: 1) he wanted to expose the fase teachers that had infiltrated the Christian community, and 2) he wanted to encourage Christians to stand firm in the faith and fight for the truth. Jude recognized that false teachers often peddled their wares unnoticed by the faithful, so he worked to heighten the awareness of the believers by describing in vivid detail how terrible dissenters actually were.
But, more than simply raising awareness, Jude thought it important that believers stand against those working against Jesus Christ. Believers were to do this by; remembering the teaching of the apostles (v.17-19), building each other up in the faith (v.20a), praying in the Holy Spirit (v.20b), and keeping themselves in the love of God (v.21).
What a great example for us to follow today on how to “defend the truth.” Yes there will always be those who will look to distort the truth, but we need follow Jude’s exhortation of; keeping ourselves in the love of God, in prayer, in fellowship, and in His Word - Ready to defend the truth.
The Truth: “Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” (1 Peter 3:15)
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
2 John “Walking in Truth With Love”
“This is love, that we walk according to His commandments (truth). This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it (Love). And this is love, that we walk after His commandments.” (v.5-6)
Truth and Love are essential in our walk as Christians. Here in today's reading, John commends the “elect lady” for walking in the truth (v.4), but he reminds her of the command to love (vv.5-6).
Truth without love can make a person harsh, aloof, and unapproachable. Many churches are dogmatic in truth but lack love and grace. They do not experience truth; they just assert it. They are sound in doctrine, but sound asleep in in love and grace. The Pharisees of 2000 years ago believed their Bible, but they were dead to a vital walk with God. Walking in the truth is more than believing the truth. It is practicing the truth and this involves loving one another.
On the other hand, love without truth is just as dangerous. It can allow problems to grow unchecked, take root in the church, and in our lives. A believer who truly loves, walks “in the truth”, and as proof that he/she loves God, will keep His commandments.
Jesus said, “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:10).
Walking by truth alone can be as dry as pine straw. It is “Love” that makes obedience light. Keeping God’s will out of a sense of duty or obligation and with little love for God, is not true love. True love is a response to God from the heart, and obedience follows. Therefore, "walk in truth" and “love one another" even as Christ loved you and gave His life for you.
The Truth: “He who has my commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:21)
Truth and Love are essential in our walk as Christians. Here in today's reading, John commends the “elect lady” for walking in the truth (v.4), but he reminds her of the command to love (vv.5-6).
Truth without love can make a person harsh, aloof, and unapproachable. Many churches are dogmatic in truth but lack love and grace. They do not experience truth; they just assert it. They are sound in doctrine, but sound asleep in in love and grace. The Pharisees of 2000 years ago believed their Bible, but they were dead to a vital walk with God. Walking in the truth is more than believing the truth. It is practicing the truth and this involves loving one another.
On the other hand, love without truth is just as dangerous. It can allow problems to grow unchecked, take root in the church, and in our lives. A believer who truly loves, walks “in the truth”, and as proof that he/she loves God, will keep His commandments.
Jesus said, “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:10).
Walking by truth alone can be as dry as pine straw. It is “Love” that makes obedience light. Keeping God’s will out of a sense of duty or obligation and with little love for God, is not true love. True love is a response to God from the heart, and obedience follows. Therefore, "walk in truth" and “love one another" even as Christ loved you and gave His life for you.
The Truth: “He who has my commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:21)
Monday, July 16, 2018
1 John 5 "Eternal Life Through Jesus"
"He that believes on the Son of God has a witness in himself. And this is the record, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” (vv.10-11)
Here in chapter 5, verses 10 and 11 mention two gifts from God given to us as believers. First, His Spirit as the testimony about His Son (Jesus) within us, and second, that through Him (Jesus), God gives eternal life.
The theme of life is central to all of John's writing, including his Gospel and his letters. In them, life is always identified with Jesus. Jesus Himself is the life (cf. 1 John 5:20; John 14:6). To “have Jesus” is to be in-dwelt by His Spirit, where God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit make their home in us as believers (John 14:23).
Life itself can often feel like observing a live sporting event. There are shocks and surprises, frustrations and fears, even sometimes a bit of anxiety, because we are unsure of the outcome. Every follower of Jesus (at some point in life) will experience moments just like that. Even to the point of questioning the certainty of eternal life.
But John writes to establish for us an unquestionable confidence: “So that we may know we have eternal life” (v. 13). This assurance does not come from a feeling or state of being, but results from belief in the reality of God's gift in Jesus, confirmed in His life, death, resurrection, and sealed to us by the comforter, His Spirit.
Yes life may present us with surprises along the way, but because of Christ’s finished work on the cross, we can have His peace, for He has already settled our eternal outcome.
The Truth: “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and not of yourselves. It is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8)
Here in chapter 5, verses 10 and 11 mention two gifts from God given to us as believers. First, His Spirit as the testimony about His Son (Jesus) within us, and second, that through Him (Jesus), God gives eternal life.
The theme of life is central to all of John's writing, including his Gospel and his letters. In them, life is always identified with Jesus. Jesus Himself is the life (cf. 1 John 5:20; John 14:6). To “have Jesus” is to be in-dwelt by His Spirit, where God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit make their home in us as believers (John 14:23).
Life itself can often feel like observing a live sporting event. There are shocks and surprises, frustrations and fears, even sometimes a bit of anxiety, because we are unsure of the outcome. Every follower of Jesus (at some point in life) will experience moments just like that. Even to the point of questioning the certainty of eternal life.
But John writes to establish for us an unquestionable confidence: “So that we may know we have eternal life” (v. 13). This assurance does not come from a feeling or state of being, but results from belief in the reality of God's gift in Jesus, confirmed in His life, death, resurrection, and sealed to us by the comforter, His Spirit.
Yes life may present us with surprises along the way, but because of Christ’s finished work on the cross, we can have His peace, for He has already settled our eternal outcome.
The Truth: “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and not of yourselves. It is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8)
Tuesday, July 10, 2018
1 John 1 “God Is Light”
"This is the message we have heard from Him and announced to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin” (vv.5-7).
In today’s passage, John makes it plain and simple why every Christian must be holy: “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all” (v. 5). Here the word light is used as a metaphor and stands for righteousness, purity, and truth. The word darkness is also used metaphorically and stands for sin, deception and impurity. If we call ourselves Christians (meaning Christ like), we must choose light over darkness, and not deliberately choose sin over obedience.
Does that mean we must be perfect? Absolutely not! Today's passage also makes it clear that “walking in the light” does not equal perfection. As Christians we should strive to follow the commands of God and obey them (2:1), yet when we fail, we should turn to repentance, not cover-up. For, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cleans us from all unrighteousness” (v.9).
The Truth: "For I am the Lord who brought you up from the land of Egypt to be your God; thus you shall be holy, for I am holy.” (Leviticus 11:45)
In today’s passage, John makes it plain and simple why every Christian must be holy: “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all” (v. 5). Here the word light is used as a metaphor and stands for righteousness, purity, and truth. The word darkness is also used metaphorically and stands for sin, deception and impurity. If we call ourselves Christians (meaning Christ like), we must choose light over darkness, and not deliberately choose sin over obedience.
Does that mean we must be perfect? Absolutely not! Today's passage also makes it clear that “walking in the light” does not equal perfection. As Christians we should strive to follow the commands of God and obey them (2:1), yet when we fail, we should turn to repentance, not cover-up. For, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cleans us from all unrighteousness” (v.9).
The Truth: "For I am the Lord who brought you up from the land of Egypt to be your God; thus you shall be holy, for I am holy.” (Leviticus 11:45)
Monday, July 9, 2018
Psalm 71 "You Are My Hope"
“For You are my hope, O Lord God.” (v.5a)
As we read through this psalm it becomes clear the psalmist, even though his own strength was failing with age, felt safe in the Lord (v.5). Therefore, he looked to the future with hope continually and praised the Lord more and more in his weakness (v.14). And even though his days were short, he continued to magnified the Lord with the time he had left (v.15).
Aging does not mean one must only look to “kick back” or take it easy, nor does it mean that one should not consider ministry in the church. We too must put our trust in God no matter what season in life we are going through. For He alone can give us hope, strength, purpose, and clarity of mind. The prophet Isaiah wrote, “Thou will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Thee” (26:3). Thus the Lord will renew our minds and keep us from confusion even in old age if we keep our focus on Him.
Therefore, "Give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the nations. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wonders. Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.” (Psalm 105:1-3)
The Truth: "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High, will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1)
As we read through this psalm it becomes clear the psalmist, even though his own strength was failing with age, felt safe in the Lord (v.5). Therefore, he looked to the future with hope continually and praised the Lord more and more in his weakness (v.14). And even though his days were short, he continued to magnified the Lord with the time he had left (v.15).
Aging does not mean one must only look to “kick back” or take it easy, nor does it mean that one should not consider ministry in the church. We too must put our trust in God no matter what season in life we are going through. For He alone can give us hope, strength, purpose, and clarity of mind. The prophet Isaiah wrote, “Thou will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Thee” (26:3). Thus the Lord will renew our minds and keep us from confusion even in old age if we keep our focus on Him.
Therefore, "Give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the nations. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wonders. Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.” (Psalm 105:1-3)
The Truth: "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High, will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1)
Saturday, July 7, 2018
Psalm 70 "Help Now"
"Hasten, O God, to save me; O LORD, come quickly to help me.” (v.1)
Here in Psalm 70, the writer is not shy in his petition. He (David) insists that God save him from his enemies and do it “now.” This honest, bold, and faithful prayer not only indicates a trust that God will fulfill His promises, but is the psalmist way of holding God to His promises.
David's bold pray for help from God to deliver him from the abuse of those around him, should aleviate for us any feelings of guilt for such requests. But in the midst of that abuse, we must also pray for our abusers deliverance. Just as Jesus who from the cross prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34), we too need to pray for those who plot against us.
I pray that God will give each of you patience in the midst of persecution, and that those who would like to see you suffer will see you praising God through the trials. Remember, the Lord’s clock is different than ours, but His timing is always perfect for our learning and His glory. Therefore, do not grow weary, but in all things give thanks knowing that He will deliver you in His timing.
The Truth: "But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” (2 Peter 3:8)
Here in Psalm 70, the writer is not shy in his petition. He (David) insists that God save him from his enemies and do it “now.” This honest, bold, and faithful prayer not only indicates a trust that God will fulfill His promises, but is the psalmist way of holding God to His promises.
David's bold pray for help from God to deliver him from the abuse of those around him, should aleviate for us any feelings of guilt for such requests. But in the midst of that abuse, we must also pray for our abusers deliverance. Just as Jesus who from the cross prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34), we too need to pray for those who plot against us.
I pray that God will give each of you patience in the midst of persecution, and that those who would like to see you suffer will see you praising God through the trials. Remember, the Lord’s clock is different than ours, but His timing is always perfect for our learning and His glory. Therefore, do not grow weary, but in all things give thanks knowing that He will deliver you in His timing.
The Truth: "But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” (2 Peter 3:8)
Friday, July 6, 2018
Psalm 69 “David’s Plea For Deliverance”
"Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in the miry depths, where there is no foothold. I have come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me. I am worn out calling for help; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God.” (vv.1-3)
Here in Psalm 69, David feels scorned, misunderstood, and overwhelmed by his enemies and circumstances. In this song, David calls for the Lord’s deliverance from the hands of his enemies, and for the justice of divine punishment upon his adversaries.
His throat is parched and his vision fails as he waits for Jehovah’s deliverance. While the circumstances may appear desperate, nonetheless, he will wait for the Creator to respond to his needs. This is the lesson we all must learn: to “Rest" in the Lord, and "wait patiently" for him (Psalm 37:7).
The Truth: "Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” (Psalm 27:14)
Thursday, July 5, 2018
Psalm 68 “God Bears Our Burdens"
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation.” (v.19)
Stress is everywhere. We stress about our finances, we stress over our jobs or potential jobs, we stress over unaccomplished tasks on our to-do lists, we even stress over the little things like our internet connection and speeds. There are all sorts of things that weigh our thoughts down, burdening us down and making us struggle for each task. When you think about all of those items which you absolutely need to take care of it can make you just drop down in shock!
God tells us to give Him all our burdens, all our worries, all our cares. He asks us to hand over each stressor as it comes. He asks us to lay our problems and our issues in His hands. He wants us to treat Him as Father, with us as children and let Him deal with everything. He is more than capable, and more than prepared to deal with anything that can stress us.
Though sometimes it seems that He is taking His time or not dealing with our burdens, when we look back we can always see His guiding hands working through the problem, and always differently than we would expect Him to. This week, let’s hand over each burden and stress – no matter what it is – to God and let Him bear the burdens in our lives!
There is rest from your worries and troubles, just lay them at the feet of Jesus.
The Truth: “Come unto Me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
Stress is everywhere. We stress about our finances, we stress over our jobs or potential jobs, we stress over unaccomplished tasks on our to-do lists, we even stress over the little things like our internet connection and speeds. There are all sorts of things that weigh our thoughts down, burdening us down and making us struggle for each task. When you think about all of those items which you absolutely need to take care of it can make you just drop down in shock!
God tells us to give Him all our burdens, all our worries, all our cares. He asks us to hand over each stressor as it comes. He asks us to lay our problems and our issues in His hands. He wants us to treat Him as Father, with us as children and let Him deal with everything. He is more than capable, and more than prepared to deal with anything that can stress us.
Though sometimes it seems that He is taking His time or not dealing with our burdens, when we look back we can always see His guiding hands working through the problem, and always differently than we would expect Him to. This week, let’s hand over each burden and stress – no matter what it is – to God and let Him bear the burdens in our lives!
There is rest from your worries and troubles, just lay them at the feet of Jesus.
The Truth: “Come unto Me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
Monday, July 2, 2018
Psalm 67 "Proclaim God's Blessings"
"God be gracious to us, and bless us; His face shine among us. That Your way be known on the earth; Your salvation among all the nations.” (vv. 1-2)
It is God’s nature to bless. However, we need to understand that His purpose is greater than we may realize. His ultimate goal encompasses far more than simply making us happy, peaceful, protected, and prosperous. In fact, it’s never the Lord’s intention for His blessings to end with us. Rather, He wants them to flow out to others as part of His plan for the whole earth.
As we see in today’s psalm, the Lord blesses us so that His salvation, His ways, and His justice may be known by every nation and people group around the globe (vv. 3-4, 7). He’s always acting with this larger picture in mind—even while working personally in each believer’s life. When your Father blesses you, He’s not only doing something for you; He’s also doing something in and through you to affect the lives of others and point people to Him.
Just as this psalmist prayed to be a blessing and a light to all the nations, we too need to ask God to; bless us, to shine through us, and use us to bring salvation to those around us as well.
The Truth: “I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.” (Isaiah 49:6)
It is God’s nature to bless. However, we need to understand that His purpose is greater than we may realize. His ultimate goal encompasses far more than simply making us happy, peaceful, protected, and prosperous. In fact, it’s never the Lord’s intention for His blessings to end with us. Rather, He wants them to flow out to others as part of His plan for the whole earth.
As we see in today’s psalm, the Lord blesses us so that His salvation, His ways, and His justice may be known by every nation and people group around the globe (vv. 3-4, 7). He’s always acting with this larger picture in mind—even while working personally in each believer’s life. When your Father blesses you, He’s not only doing something for you; He’s also doing something in and through you to affect the lives of others and point people to Him.
Just as this psalmist prayed to be a blessing and a light to all the nations, we too need to ask God to; bless us, to shine through us, and use us to bring salvation to those around us as well.
The Truth: “I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.” (Isaiah 49:6)
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