I love to teach. I enjoy showing people how things work or work together. I enjoy teaching the Bible or doctrine. I even enjoy teaching writing and reading (and math occasionally). I find myself drawn to it.
It still surprises me, because I never really imaged myself as a teacher. At least, not that I can remember. I certainly never imagined I be a pastor. However, I am grateful to God that he dreamed better dreams for me than I did. If it were not for the Lord, I would have never found joy. Apart from him, there is no joy to be found. I am glad he taught me that.
I see my role, as a pastor, to be a teacher. My hope and prayer is that every sermon and every lesson enables the flock under my care to grow in grace an knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Further, I hope these sermons and lessons are equipping them for works of service to our King. Because, of this I am always seeking to improve, to understand, to know my people, and to accurately open the Scriptures to them. It is a task that brings me great joy.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Premature Judgment
Have you ever had a discussion with someone and had them say something like this: "Boy, I can tell you have really studied this more than me. I still think your wrong." If you have, you know you were left thinking, "What?!" How have we come to a place in our culture that a person can have intellectual (and even emotional) satisfaction, when their world is resting on an unsubstantiated reality?
Do people not realize that the instant they acknowledge that their opponent has studied more than they, it means they are arguing from ignorance? If I say to someone, you have studied this more than I have, I am admitting I am ignorant. Granted, we are all ignorant to a point. There are numerous things that we just don't know. However, we should not revel in our ignorance.
It is acceptable to say, I am not convinced or I need to study more. But, to dismiss an argument without weighing the validity of its contents is irresponsible. We should never be ready to concede the argument without first studying. We all have days where we can get caught off guard. There may be areas that we haven't thought to study, but that doesn't excuse premature judgment. We need to not only know what we believe, but why we believe what we believe. And we need to be familiar with the arguments against what we believe, as well as how to answer them.
Do people not realize that the instant they acknowledge that their opponent has studied more than they, it means they are arguing from ignorance? If I say to someone, you have studied this more than I have, I am admitting I am ignorant. Granted, we are all ignorant to a point. There are numerous things that we just don't know. However, we should not revel in our ignorance.
It is acceptable to say, I am not convinced or I need to study more. But, to dismiss an argument without weighing the validity of its contents is irresponsible. We should never be ready to concede the argument without first studying. We all have days where we can get caught off guard. There may be areas that we haven't thought to study, but that doesn't excuse premature judgment. We need to not only know what we believe, but why we believe what we believe. And we need to be familiar with the arguments against what we believe, as well as how to answer them.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Thoughts on Thinking
I am beginning to realize that I don't like thinking. I want people to give me new information in sound bites that can be easily categorized as fact or opinion. I am convinced this is a by-product of years of uncritical t.v. viewing. I spent numerous hours as a preteen and teenager mindlessly absorbing what was on the tube, unaware that I was silently being shaped by the "facts" I digested.
As a result I have had to unlearn a lot of things. Even as I learn new things, I am unlearning others. Thinking requires a lot of work. Evaluating opinions has never been an easy task for me. I was culturally conditioned to believe all opinions are equally valid, because they are personal. However, as I have continued to study Scriptures, I have learned that not all opinions are true or valid.
When we come to Scripture we need to understand it doesn't contain God's opinion. It contains truth, truth upon which we are to build our lives. God's commands and doctrines are the things that should drive our opinions. From the Scriptures come valid opinions, based in real "facts." And while in some areas of Scripture, their is room for diverging opinion and interpretation, the majority of Scripture is undeniably clear.
We must come to the Scriptures in humility. Never exalting our in own understanding (Prov. 3:5-6), but seeking the Lord's wisdom (James 1:5). We must submit ourselves to the Word, or more accurately to the One who breathed out the Word (see 2 Tim. 3:16). As for those who believe the Bible to outdated, culturally bound, uninspired, unimportant, etc., what can be said? If the Scripture is not inspired (breathed out by God--thus without error), if it is bound to some ancient culture (thus outdated), if it unimportant, then why pursue morality at all? Why press forward toward the biblical ethic? Or if a person has abandoned the "outdated" moral attitudes of the Scriptures, why worry about the love of God? If the moral prescriptions from God are of no modern value, then why would one suppose that the character descriptions of God are of modern value?
No, the Scriptures are true and trustworthy. They not only teach us about God, but about how his creation is to respond to him. There isn't wiggle room in that, even though some would claim I am being intolerant (I appreciate their tolerance). Despite my natural inclination toward not thinking, I am forced to think a lot now. It is labor, but its a labor of love. My King has called me to grow in the grace and knowledge of him. He has called me to love him with all my mind (heart, soul, and strength, as well).
I have to think, because so many of Satan's schemes are really mind games. Subtle, clever, evil attempts to make me think more like him, and less like God. I continue to study the Word, prayerfully seeking wisdom and guidance, in order to adjust my thinking. I try to test every so-called fact to see if it stands up to the Word of God. I keep learning, sometimes unlearning in the process, and continue to press toward a more biblical understanding of life and doctrine. Thinking is part of being in Christ, because Christianity is not a mindless religion. I hope this post gets you thinking. I'm off to think some more myself.
As a result I have had to unlearn a lot of things. Even as I learn new things, I am unlearning others. Thinking requires a lot of work. Evaluating opinions has never been an easy task for me. I was culturally conditioned to believe all opinions are equally valid, because they are personal. However, as I have continued to study Scriptures, I have learned that not all opinions are true or valid.
When we come to Scripture we need to understand it doesn't contain God's opinion. It contains truth, truth upon which we are to build our lives. God's commands and doctrines are the things that should drive our opinions. From the Scriptures come valid opinions, based in real "facts." And while in some areas of Scripture, their is room for diverging opinion and interpretation, the majority of Scripture is undeniably clear.
We must come to the Scriptures in humility. Never exalting our in own understanding (Prov. 3:5-6), but seeking the Lord's wisdom (James 1:5). We must submit ourselves to the Word, or more accurately to the One who breathed out the Word (see 2 Tim. 3:16). As for those who believe the Bible to outdated, culturally bound, uninspired, unimportant, etc., what can be said? If the Scripture is not inspired (breathed out by God--thus without error), if it is bound to some ancient culture (thus outdated), if it unimportant, then why pursue morality at all? Why press forward toward the biblical ethic? Or if a person has abandoned the "outdated" moral attitudes of the Scriptures, why worry about the love of God? If the moral prescriptions from God are of no modern value, then why would one suppose that the character descriptions of God are of modern value?
No, the Scriptures are true and trustworthy. They not only teach us about God, but about how his creation is to respond to him. There isn't wiggle room in that, even though some would claim I am being intolerant (I appreciate their tolerance). Despite my natural inclination toward not thinking, I am forced to think a lot now. It is labor, but its a labor of love. My King has called me to grow in the grace and knowledge of him. He has called me to love him with all my mind (heart, soul, and strength, as well).
I have to think, because so many of Satan's schemes are really mind games. Subtle, clever, evil attempts to make me think more like him, and less like God. I continue to study the Word, prayerfully seeking wisdom and guidance, in order to adjust my thinking. I try to test every so-called fact to see if it stands up to the Word of God. I keep learning, sometimes unlearning in the process, and continue to press toward a more biblical understanding of life and doctrine. Thinking is part of being in Christ, because Christianity is not a mindless religion. I hope this post gets you thinking. I'm off to think some more myself.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Pray for Laborers
It never ceases to amaze me how much my work load grows when I actually sit down and write out a to-do list. Some days it is easy to think there is nothing to do, but in reality everyday has more than enough stuff to do. We set priorities to accomplished the most important things, and hope we are given another day to accomplish more. Yet, each day comes with its own to-do list and priorities.
Now when we apply this reality to church life we can understand why Jesus told us to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers. The world is crumbling around us. The world is full of straying sheep that are without a shepherd and that are surrounded by ravenous wolves. Even in our congregations their are wolves, wrapped in wool, ready to strike the Lord's sheep. There is so much work to be done--captives to be freed, blind and deaf to be healed, orphans to be rescued.
Every person we meet has a need. They may need to be reconciled to God or their neighbor. They may need to be disciplined or restored. The work is too great for one person. It takes an entire congregation pulling together around the mutual goal of glorifying God through the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I don't mean simply proclaiming you must be born again, but rather proclaiming the gospel in all of its fullness.
When we proclaim the gospel in all of its fullness, we not only tell sinners to leave sin and trust in Jesus, we tell them that having done that, their identities have changed. They are not who they were. They are no longer defined by the past nor their genealogy, but by who they are in Christ and their place as a child.
When we proclaim the gospel in all of its fullness, lives change. Husbands stop beating their wives. Fathers stop beating their children. Drunkenness ceases. Sexually immorality is rejected. Forgiveness abounds.
When we proclaim the gospel in all of its fullness, Christ is glorified. The kingdom of heaven advances. Christ's reign is felt. Satan and his minions tremble in fear and anger. The children of Satan are snatched from his family, and adopted into God's.
Oh, to see it happen: an army of Christ's followers raised up and running into the fields of harvest. The task isn't to large for the Lord of the Harvest. Are we willing to enter the fields and labor? If not, I am afraid we cannot call him "Lord." You don't have to knock on a stranger's door to share Jesus. Invite you lost friends or co-workers over for a barbecue and share what God is doing in your life. Gently confront your neighbors who haven't been in church in a while to see what's going on. Call someone who is having a difficult time and let them know you're praying for them. If a neighbor is swamped with work and family commitments, mow their lawn. Take a widow out for lunch. Encourage someone who is adopting.
Before long, you'll find that the Lord of the Harvest has answered your prayers and sent a laborer out in the field--you. And who knows who else might follow your example?
Now when we apply this reality to church life we can understand why Jesus told us to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers. The world is crumbling around us. The world is full of straying sheep that are without a shepherd and that are surrounded by ravenous wolves. Even in our congregations their are wolves, wrapped in wool, ready to strike the Lord's sheep. There is so much work to be done--captives to be freed, blind and deaf to be healed, orphans to be rescued.
Every person we meet has a need. They may need to be reconciled to God or their neighbor. They may need to be disciplined or restored. The work is too great for one person. It takes an entire congregation pulling together around the mutual goal of glorifying God through the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I don't mean simply proclaiming you must be born again, but rather proclaiming the gospel in all of its fullness.
When we proclaim the gospel in all of its fullness, we not only tell sinners to leave sin and trust in Jesus, we tell them that having done that, their identities have changed. They are not who they were. They are no longer defined by the past nor their genealogy, but by who they are in Christ and their place as a child.
When we proclaim the gospel in all of its fullness, lives change. Husbands stop beating their wives. Fathers stop beating their children. Drunkenness ceases. Sexually immorality is rejected. Forgiveness abounds.
When we proclaim the gospel in all of its fullness, Christ is glorified. The kingdom of heaven advances. Christ's reign is felt. Satan and his minions tremble in fear and anger. The children of Satan are snatched from his family, and adopted into God's.
Oh, to see it happen: an army of Christ's followers raised up and running into the fields of harvest. The task isn't to large for the Lord of the Harvest. Are we willing to enter the fields and labor? If not, I am afraid we cannot call him "Lord." You don't have to knock on a stranger's door to share Jesus. Invite you lost friends or co-workers over for a barbecue and share what God is doing in your life. Gently confront your neighbors who haven't been in church in a while to see what's going on. Call someone who is having a difficult time and let them know you're praying for them. If a neighbor is swamped with work and family commitments, mow their lawn. Take a widow out for lunch. Encourage someone who is adopting.
Before long, you'll find that the Lord of the Harvest has answered your prayers and sent a laborer out in the field--you. And who knows who else might follow your example?
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sermon Review 4-26-09
Morning: We began the series entitled: Redeeming the Harlot Bride from Hosea. The message entitled, "Signs, Signs, Everywhere There's Signs," focused on Hosea 1:1-9. In this passage, Hosea informs his reader of how God had used his marriage and children to demonstrate God's own love for wayward Israel.
Hosea's marriage was a sign of things that were. Gomer represent the spiritually adulterous Israel and her pursuit of false gods. Hosea's was to love her just as the Lord loved wayward Israel.
Hosea's son Jezreel was a sign of things to come. Judgment was coming on the house of Jehu (the great-great-great grandfather of Jeroboam II). The nation of Israel would be punished for their idolatry.
The two other children were signs of what was not, but will be. Lo-Ruhamah (Not Loved) was a sign that said Israel was not loved by the Lord anymore, but he would show his love to the house of Judah and save them. Lo-Ammi (Not My People) was a sign the nation was no longer considered God's people, but he would restore them beyond measure.
Hosea's message foreshadows the gospel. In Hosea's life God reveals himself as a spurned husband who pursues his wife and remains faithful to his covenant vows. He seeks he with a patient gracious love than desires her return rather than her destruction. We cannot read Hosea without reflecting upon Jesus. This is a picture of God's unconditional love.
Evening: (5:00 p.m.) We did our first VBS clinic. We practiced the motions for the theme song, "Boomerang Express," and "Gonna Follow Him." We also looked at the background passages for the "Track 1" (Day 1) Lesson which encourages the learners to follow Jesus. (6:00 p.m.) we looked at Matthew 4:18-22. We focused on the call to follow Jesus and what it means.
Hosea's marriage was a sign of things that were. Gomer represent the spiritually adulterous Israel and her pursuit of false gods. Hosea's was to love her just as the Lord loved wayward Israel.
Hosea's son Jezreel was a sign of things to come. Judgment was coming on the house of Jehu (the great-great-great grandfather of Jeroboam II). The nation of Israel would be punished for their idolatry.
The two other children were signs of what was not, but will be. Lo-Ruhamah (Not Loved) was a sign that said Israel was not loved by the Lord anymore, but he would show his love to the house of Judah and save them. Lo-Ammi (Not My People) was a sign the nation was no longer considered God's people, but he would restore them beyond measure.
Hosea's message foreshadows the gospel. In Hosea's life God reveals himself as a spurned husband who pursues his wife and remains faithful to his covenant vows. He seeks he with a patient gracious love than desires her return rather than her destruction. We cannot read Hosea without reflecting upon Jesus. This is a picture of God's unconditional love.
Evening: (5:00 p.m.) We did our first VBS clinic. We practiced the motions for the theme song, "Boomerang Express," and "Gonna Follow Him." We also looked at the background passages for the "Track 1" (Day 1) Lesson which encourages the learners to follow Jesus. (6:00 p.m.) we looked at Matthew 4:18-22. We focused on the call to follow Jesus and what it means.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Thinking About Hosea
My mind is on Hosea--man and his message. The subject matter of the book has been the source of numerous questions. How could God command his prophet to marry an adulterous wife? How could he expect him to take care of children of unfaithfulness? How can a holy God command such a thing? Before we explain it away, we must remember that God is setting Hosea up as an analogy. Hosea is to take an adulterous wife in order to demonstrate the Lord's relationship to Israel. The Lord had entered into a covenant relationship with Israel, but they had forsaken him and ran after other gods.
Even if Hosea serves as an analogy, how can God command such a thing? The better question is: How can a holy God love us? We are no less wayward than Gomer. Even Isaiah says we have all gone astray like sheep. We as creatures, in our natural state, have abandoned our Creator. We have broken covenant with him. How can he love us? How can he restore us to relationship with himself?
When we fully understand the thrust of Hosea's message, or I should say, the Lord's message through Hosea, it gives us a glimpse into the heart of our Lord. The message of Hosea is one of unconditional love. The story of Hosea and Gomer provokes deep emotion. It strikes the heart. How can a man love a woman who has chased other lovers? How can he raise children who may not be his? How can he continue to praise the Lord in the midst of it all?
Most of us, I think it is safe to assume, would not tolerate this kind of infidelity. If we were married to Gomer she would be out in the street. Good riddance to bad rubbish, the old saying goes. Yet, Hosea's love for Gomer is a reflection of God's love for his people. Our love, so often, is conditional in nature. God's love is truly unconditional. He loves us because he loves us, we are wayward adulterers who pursue other things with passion that should be reserved for him alone. When good gifts pour into our lives we praise our hard work, our talent, our ability, we thank fate or luck or good fortune. Like Gomer we mistakenly think the objects of our desire have bought for us these gifts, but in reality it is God who is blessing us in order to bring us to himself.
Unconditional love does not mean that God will forget their sin. No, a way of purification must be made. He will forsake her, he will punish her, and finally he will raise her up. He will have to take the spirit of adultery out of her heart and replace it with the Spirit of holiness. Hosea's sermons to the nation of Israel point to the crucifixion of Christ. Christ, the true Israel, was forsaken, punished (to death), and was raised up on the third day. Christ the Savior brings salvation to the harlot bride. He buys her back from her slavery, and brings her to himself. He enters into covenant with her--a covenant which he enables her to keep through the indwelling Spirit. As Paul reminds us, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless" (Eph. 5:25-27).
In Hosea's day the kingdom of Israel collapsed under the weight of its sin and the people where sent into exile. In Christ, the true Israel, the kingdom is restored and all of God's people are brought back from exile and alienation. Spend some time in Hosea and allow the Lord to show you the depth of his mercy and unfailing love. Let him teach you that he is the Lover of your soul. Let your heart be broken before his mercy and find in him your heart's true home.
Even if Hosea serves as an analogy, how can God command such a thing? The better question is: How can a holy God love us? We are no less wayward than Gomer. Even Isaiah says we have all gone astray like sheep. We as creatures, in our natural state, have abandoned our Creator. We have broken covenant with him. How can he love us? How can he restore us to relationship with himself?
When we fully understand the thrust of Hosea's message, or I should say, the Lord's message through Hosea, it gives us a glimpse into the heart of our Lord. The message of Hosea is one of unconditional love. The story of Hosea and Gomer provokes deep emotion. It strikes the heart. How can a man love a woman who has chased other lovers? How can he raise children who may not be his? How can he continue to praise the Lord in the midst of it all?
Most of us, I think it is safe to assume, would not tolerate this kind of infidelity. If we were married to Gomer she would be out in the street. Good riddance to bad rubbish, the old saying goes. Yet, Hosea's love for Gomer is a reflection of God's love for his people. Our love, so often, is conditional in nature. God's love is truly unconditional. He loves us because he loves us, we are wayward adulterers who pursue other things with passion that should be reserved for him alone. When good gifts pour into our lives we praise our hard work, our talent, our ability, we thank fate or luck or good fortune. Like Gomer we mistakenly think the objects of our desire have bought for us these gifts, but in reality it is God who is blessing us in order to bring us to himself.
Unconditional love does not mean that God will forget their sin. No, a way of purification must be made. He will forsake her, he will punish her, and finally he will raise her up. He will have to take the spirit of adultery out of her heart and replace it with the Spirit of holiness. Hosea's sermons to the nation of Israel point to the crucifixion of Christ. Christ, the true Israel, was forsaken, punished (to death), and was raised up on the third day. Christ the Savior brings salvation to the harlot bride. He buys her back from her slavery, and brings her to himself. He enters into covenant with her--a covenant which he enables her to keep through the indwelling Spirit. As Paul reminds us, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless" (Eph. 5:25-27).
In Hosea's day the kingdom of Israel collapsed under the weight of its sin and the people where sent into exile. In Christ, the true Israel, the kingdom is restored and all of God's people are brought back from exile and alienation. Spend some time in Hosea and allow the Lord to show you the depth of his mercy and unfailing love. Let him teach you that he is the Lover of your soul. Let your heart be broken before his mercy and find in him your heart's true home.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Leisure Day
Sometimes it is good to take a day off. It can be quite refreshing spending the day with no agenda, doing silly stuff, and hanging with your family. Today was a leisure day for me. I spent the day shooting a bow and chasing my daughter. I even managed to get my yard mowed, thanks to my Dad charging the mower's battery. My mind feels lighter. I hope you all have the opportunity to take a day off soon (but not Sunday). Spend sometime in the sun (don't forget the sunscreen, a lesson I remembered too late), enjoy the warm breeze, and find people you can laugh with. Your mind will feel lighter, too. God bless.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Ungodliness
I'm wrestling with ungodliness. I mean the concept of ungodliness. Studying for a recent sermon has really caused me to understand my definition of ungodliness was quite accurate. I have always understood ungodliness to be characterized by immorality. But as I have been studying, I have come to realize that immorality is just the symptom of ungodliness.
Ungodliness can manifest itself in rigid legalism or wanton licentiousness. An ungodly life is one that is lived without reverence for God. It disregards his standards and replaces them with different ones. The self-righteous suppose that they are as good as possible, and that God, if he is watching, will recognize that reality. The problem, however, is that they do not know God. If they truly knew him, if they understood his character, then they would live in the fear of the Lord. Since they don't know him, they think their doing just fine.
The licentious person gives free reign to their passions, because they don't really know God either. It may be that they don't believe in God or that they believe he is a kindly, senile, old, grandfather figure who doesn't mind. Their error is equal to and opposite of the legalistic error. It stems from their lack of knowledge of God.
If God is not the center of our lives, through a personal relationship to Jesus Christ, then we are living an ungodly life. A life that is not preoccupied with the glory of the Lord is an ungodly life. Work that is not done to the glory of the Lord is ungodly work. Prayers prayed that are not prayed to the glory of God are ungodly prayer. Songs sung that are not sung to the glory of the Lord are ungodly songs.
Faith in Christ drives us to say "no" to ungodliness. It calls us to walk in faithful obedience. It compels us to let our lives be shaped and transformed by reverence for God. The fear of the Lord, expressed in adoring trust, keeps God continually at the forefront of our mind and our actions. If we aren't doing things in his power and for his glory, how can we call it "godly?"
Ungodliness can manifest itself in rigid legalism or wanton licentiousness. An ungodly life is one that is lived without reverence for God. It disregards his standards and replaces them with different ones. The self-righteous suppose that they are as good as possible, and that God, if he is watching, will recognize that reality. The problem, however, is that they do not know God. If they truly knew him, if they understood his character, then they would live in the fear of the Lord. Since they don't know him, they think their doing just fine.
The licentious person gives free reign to their passions, because they don't really know God either. It may be that they don't believe in God or that they believe he is a kindly, senile, old, grandfather figure who doesn't mind. Their error is equal to and opposite of the legalistic error. It stems from their lack of knowledge of God.
If God is not the center of our lives, through a personal relationship to Jesus Christ, then we are living an ungodly life. A life that is not preoccupied with the glory of the Lord is an ungodly life. Work that is not done to the glory of the Lord is ungodly work. Prayers prayed that are not prayed to the glory of God are ungodly prayer. Songs sung that are not sung to the glory of the Lord are ungodly songs.
Faith in Christ drives us to say "no" to ungodliness. It calls us to walk in faithful obedience. It compels us to let our lives be shaped and transformed by reverence for God. The fear of the Lord, expressed in adoring trust, keeps God continually at the forefront of our mind and our actions. If we aren't doing things in his power and for his glory, how can we call it "godly?"
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
What Did I Do?
Do you ever have the feeling you have done something or said something that hurt someone, but you don't know what you did or how to make it better? Maybe it is the awkward silence that settles between you as you attempt a conversation. Maybe it is an icy stare. Maybe they refuse to acknowledge you when you greet them. Sometimes, you can't put your finger on it, but you know something isn't right. What do you do?
If you're like me you let it eat at you like a stomach full of worms--gnawing and biting, wriggling and crawling. You let it keep you up late and get you up early. You might even complain about it to someone, if you can find a sympathetic ear. But, what would God have you do?
1. It may seem trite, but we have to start with prayer. We have to seek God's wisdom in the matter. Remember he give wisdom liberally to all who ask without doubting. Specifically, we need to know if and where we erred. A wound, received or perceived, is still a wound. We need to take accountability for our actions, attitudes, and words.
2. If the Lord reveals something to us that we did or said-we shouldn't seek to defend it or explain it away. We must confess it to him. We should ask him to forgive us for wounding (intentionally or unintentionally) that person.
Then we need to ask him to begin working in their heart to bring about reconciliation. Ask him to pave the way for forgiveness and healing in their hearts. Ask for a restored relationship.
3. Then ask for an open door to ask that person's forgiveness. Ask the Lord for the humility to acknowledge your sin (you confessed it to him, you should be able to confess it to others). Ask him for the boldness to approach the offended party (with humility) and ask for their forgiveness.
4. Then walk through that door (with humility and boldness) when it opens. Ask their forgiveness, without defending yourself or rationalizing away what happened. If you have sought forgiveness from God, through Christ, and earnestly seek forgiveness from the offended person, then you have done all you can do. You can have confidence that God has forgiven you, but the person's response isn't your responsibility. Once you have confessed your sin and sought forgiveness, it is there responsibility to respond in grace and forgive.
5. Finally, I want to offer a word of caution concerning resentment. If at any moment during this process you think or feel that you shouldn't have to ask for forgiveness, you need to go back to the repentance stage. The real problem in a situation like this is pride flare-up. We all make mistakes. We are all capable of hurting someone unintentionally. It's part and parcel of the human condition. We often sin without even knowing it. But, our goal as believer is to bring glory to Christ. We all know he didn't do anything wrong, yet he was willing to die so that we might be forgiven. To paraphrase Paul, "It is better to be wronged, than to pursue your rights and dishonor God."
If you still can't get over feeling that you haven't done anything wrong, and get angry when you think about asking for forgiveness, then don't waste your time asking for forgiveness. God won't grant it and neither will anybody else. Were I stuck in a position like this, I would meditate on my sinfulness and the price paid for my forgiveness. I would pray that God will reveal the depth of my sin and teach me to see it as he sees it. When that prayer was positively answered, I would then pray that he teach me to love others as he loves them.
If you're like me you let it eat at you like a stomach full of worms--gnawing and biting, wriggling and crawling. You let it keep you up late and get you up early. You might even complain about it to someone, if you can find a sympathetic ear. But, what would God have you do?
1. It may seem trite, but we have to start with prayer. We have to seek God's wisdom in the matter. Remember he give wisdom liberally to all who ask without doubting. Specifically, we need to know if and where we erred. A wound, received or perceived, is still a wound. We need to take accountability for our actions, attitudes, and words.
2. If the Lord reveals something to us that we did or said-we shouldn't seek to defend it or explain it away. We must confess it to him. We should ask him to forgive us for wounding (intentionally or unintentionally) that person.
Then we need to ask him to begin working in their heart to bring about reconciliation. Ask him to pave the way for forgiveness and healing in their hearts. Ask for a restored relationship.
3. Then ask for an open door to ask that person's forgiveness. Ask the Lord for the humility to acknowledge your sin (you confessed it to him, you should be able to confess it to others). Ask him for the boldness to approach the offended party (with humility) and ask for their forgiveness.
4. Then walk through that door (with humility and boldness) when it opens. Ask their forgiveness, without defending yourself or rationalizing away what happened. If you have sought forgiveness from God, through Christ, and earnestly seek forgiveness from the offended person, then you have done all you can do. You can have confidence that God has forgiven you, but the person's response isn't your responsibility. Once you have confessed your sin and sought forgiveness, it is there responsibility to respond in grace and forgive.
5. Finally, I want to offer a word of caution concerning resentment. If at any moment during this process you think or feel that you shouldn't have to ask for forgiveness, you need to go back to the repentance stage. The real problem in a situation like this is pride flare-up. We all make mistakes. We are all capable of hurting someone unintentionally. It's part and parcel of the human condition. We often sin without even knowing it. But, our goal as believer is to bring glory to Christ. We all know he didn't do anything wrong, yet he was willing to die so that we might be forgiven. To paraphrase Paul, "It is better to be wronged, than to pursue your rights and dishonor God."
If you still can't get over feeling that you haven't done anything wrong, and get angry when you think about asking for forgiveness, then don't waste your time asking for forgiveness. God won't grant it and neither will anybody else. Were I stuck in a position like this, I would meditate on my sinfulness and the price paid for my forgiveness. I would pray that God will reveal the depth of my sin and teach me to see it as he sees it. When that prayer was positively answered, I would then pray that he teach me to love others as he loves them.
The Glory of God
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to speak in a revival meeting this evening at Bethel Baptist Church. My sermon was entitled, "The Grace of God," and focused on Titus 2:11-14. In this passage Paul explains:
1. That the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. In this passage he uses the term "the grace of God" as a kind of short hand for the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. His words remind us that God has demonstrated his grace through the death and resurrection of Jesus, because it "has appeared." It has already occurred, when Jesus stepped out of heaven into the flesh. He has shown his grace through his pursuit of us rebels. He has shown us his grace by allowing the gospel to be proclaimed to us and allowing the Spirit to convict us of our sin and need of a savior. When Paul says that it has appeared to all men, he doesn't mean that everyone will be saved. He means that it for everyone Jew or Gentile, male or female, young or old, rich or poor, slave or free, etc. The grace of God that brings salvation is only effective for those who believe. Paul demonstrates this by saying that it teaches us a few important truths.
2 . The grace of God that brings salvation teaches us: A.) to say "no" to ungodliness and worldly passions. Ungodliness is often defined by us in terms of gross immorality--like sexual sin, stealing, etc. However, gross immorality is only a symptom of ungodliness. Ungodliness at its heart is a life lived without fear or reverence for God. When we do not seek to glorify God with our lives we are living ungodly lives. Worldly passions expresses the desires and cravings of the flesh that drive and motivate us. Whether it is success, fame, popularity, wealth or any other object, worldly passions drive us away from God. They attract us more than a life of devotion to the Lord. They allow us to place the Lord and his plan on the back burner. B.) The grace of God teaches us to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives. They are self-controlled in the sense that we are temperate in our approach. Having been brought, by grace through faith, into right standing with God, we seek to walk in faith. We don't allow sin free reign in our life, but strive against it. And we don't impose legalistic rules to establish our own righteousness. An upright life is one where we seek not to harm others. Avoid slander, gossip, backbiting, and so-on. We treat others as we would treat the Lord. Our lives are godly when we reflect the character of Christ. C.) The grace of God teaches us to live in light of the second coming of Jesus. This world is just a training ground. It is reading to meet our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
3) The grace of God reveals our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. It teaches us that he gave himself for us. That is, he died in our place to reconcile us to God. He gave himself to redeem us--to purchase our freedom from lawlessness. He gave himself to cleanse us and make us his special possession--a people eager to do good works. The grace of God should motivate us to serve and glorify him.
1. That the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. In this passage he uses the term "the grace of God" as a kind of short hand for the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. His words remind us that God has demonstrated his grace through the death and resurrection of Jesus, because it "has appeared." It has already occurred, when Jesus stepped out of heaven into the flesh. He has shown his grace through his pursuit of us rebels. He has shown us his grace by allowing the gospel to be proclaimed to us and allowing the Spirit to convict us of our sin and need of a savior. When Paul says that it has appeared to all men, he doesn't mean that everyone will be saved. He means that it for everyone Jew or Gentile, male or female, young or old, rich or poor, slave or free, etc. The grace of God that brings salvation is only effective for those who believe. Paul demonstrates this by saying that it teaches us a few important truths.
2 . The grace of God that brings salvation teaches us: A.) to say "no" to ungodliness and worldly passions. Ungodliness is often defined by us in terms of gross immorality--like sexual sin, stealing, etc. However, gross immorality is only a symptom of ungodliness. Ungodliness at its heart is a life lived without fear or reverence for God. When we do not seek to glorify God with our lives we are living ungodly lives. Worldly passions expresses the desires and cravings of the flesh that drive and motivate us. Whether it is success, fame, popularity, wealth or any other object, worldly passions drive us away from God. They attract us more than a life of devotion to the Lord. They allow us to place the Lord and his plan on the back burner. B.) The grace of God teaches us to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives. They are self-controlled in the sense that we are temperate in our approach. Having been brought, by grace through faith, into right standing with God, we seek to walk in faith. We don't allow sin free reign in our life, but strive against it. And we don't impose legalistic rules to establish our own righteousness. An upright life is one where we seek not to harm others. Avoid slander, gossip, backbiting, and so-on. We treat others as we would treat the Lord. Our lives are godly when we reflect the character of Christ. C.) The grace of God teaches us to live in light of the second coming of Jesus. This world is just a training ground. It is reading to meet our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
3) The grace of God reveals our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. It teaches us that he gave himself for us. That is, he died in our place to reconcile us to God. He gave himself to redeem us--to purchase our freedom from lawlessness. He gave himself to cleanse us and make us his special possession--a people eager to do good works. The grace of God should motivate us to serve and glorify him.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Sermon Preview 4-26-09
Morning: We will begin a new series of sermons from the book of Hosea. Redeeming the Harlot Bride will look at how Christ is revealed in the life and ministry of Hosea the prophet and his marriage to Gomer the prostitute. The first sermon in the series, "Signs, Signs, Everywhere There's Signs," will come from Hosea 1:1-9. In this passage the prophet is called to take a harlot bride, and to give their children symbolic names. His life not only reflects the situation in Israel in his day, but it also reflects Christ's love for his church. This passage helps us to understand the thrust of the book. While Hosea's message deals primarily with Israel's adulterous (idolatrous) ways, it is set in contrast to the Lord's steadfast love. The true depth of the Israel's treason is seen as Hosea reflects on God's steadfast love.
Evening: At 5:00 p.m. we will have a VBS clinic. The clinic is meant to help us learn the music, movements, and message. This will be our first clinic and we will look at "Track 1: Peter Met Jesus" from John 1:35-42. I am still pray about what to do during Discipleship Training at 6:00 p.m. Please pray with me.
Evening: At 5:00 p.m. we will have a VBS clinic. The clinic is meant to help us learn the music, movements, and message. This will be our first clinic and we will look at "Track 1: Peter Met Jesus" from John 1:35-42. I am still pray about what to do during Discipleship Training at 6:00 p.m. Please pray with me.
Monday, April 20, 2009
When You Don't Know What to Pray
How do we pray in a situation when we don't know what we should pray for? First, we need to realize that we don't know all the facts in any situation. We cannot see the ends of any situation. Only God knows what his purposed ends are, and what all the facts are in every situation. Understanding this does not limit how we pray, but frees us to pray to the One who knows everything.
Second, we need to understand that it is perfectly acceptable to God for us to pray for what we desire. If we have a sick loved one whom we desperately desire to get well, God doesn't mind us asking him to make them well. The asking doesn't mean that it is God's will to heal our sick loved one, but he invites us to ask of him.
Third, when we ask him for our hearts desire, we need to humbly submit to his will. Our prayer might look something like this: "Father, I really desire to see my loved one healed, but your will be done." We need to understand the God may have a purpose beyond our understanding. The difficulty surrounding our loved ones (and us) could be a test or trial or chastisement. The difficulties in life are designed to instruct us, to train us, to shape us, and to focus our attention on God. When we submit our prayers to God's will we acknowledge his wise and sovereign providence.
Finally, we pray continually. We don't stop until the Lord brings about an answer. Sometimes, it is a no--like when David fasted and prayed for his infant son who died. Sometimes, it is a yes. However, we must wait and pray until we know.
To paraphrase James, "You don't have because you didn't ask; and sometimes when you ask, you ask for the wrong things to satisfy your flesh, so you still don't have. Ask and ask wisely, and you will have."
Second, we need to understand that it is perfectly acceptable to God for us to pray for what we desire. If we have a sick loved one whom we desperately desire to get well, God doesn't mind us asking him to make them well. The asking doesn't mean that it is God's will to heal our sick loved one, but he invites us to ask of him.
Third, when we ask him for our hearts desire, we need to humbly submit to his will. Our prayer might look something like this: "Father, I really desire to see my loved one healed, but your will be done." We need to understand the God may have a purpose beyond our understanding. The difficulty surrounding our loved ones (and us) could be a test or trial or chastisement. The difficulties in life are designed to instruct us, to train us, to shape us, and to focus our attention on God. When we submit our prayers to God's will we acknowledge his wise and sovereign providence.
Finally, we pray continually. We don't stop until the Lord brings about an answer. Sometimes, it is a no--like when David fasted and prayed for his infant son who died. Sometimes, it is a yes. However, we must wait and pray until we know.
To paraphrase James, "You don't have because you didn't ask; and sometimes when you ask, you ask for the wrong things to satisfy your flesh, so you still don't have. Ask and ask wisely, and you will have."
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Sermon Review 4-19-09
Morning: We had an excellent Gideon presentation today. The Gideon ministry is an import one. Distributing God's Word is very important.
Evening: I took time to answer some questions tonight. They were: Is the Roman Catholic Church the first church? Why are there more books in the Catholic Bible? Was King James a believer?
Evening: I took time to answer some questions tonight. They were: Is the Roman Catholic Church the first church? Why are there more books in the Catholic Bible? Was King James a believer?
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Good Music
From time to time have an insatiable desire for new music. Sometimes, I need quick tempos. Other times, I need pounding rhythms. But, always I want something that moves me. When I am down, I want melancholy music; when I am up, I want music that is upbeat. I don't suppose I am any different than most people. My musical tastes touch about every genre (except Opera-I haven't been able to develop a taste for it). And while I occasionally listen to secular music, I really want music that will have a positive affect on my spiritual life. I am always looking for "good" Christian music.
Message plays a large part in what I deem to be "good" music. I listen to the words, not just the music. Another thing that is important to me is the lifestyle of the singer or group (and the songwriters). I want to know that the artists are trying to live the life. I don't expect perfection, but I do want consistency. A few years ago, I was grieved when a song written by a non-believer won the best song of the year at the Dove awards (an awards show for Christian performers). It bugged me that such a thing could happen. When the message is biblically accurate, Christ exalting, and backed up with consistent testimony I find it easy to enjoy the music.
So, don't be shocked if you see me bobbing down the road to the base-thumping sound of Voice, or rocking along to Apologetix or Rush of Fools. Soon you may here me listening to the mellow, folksy and powerful tunes of Andrew Peterson. His music has had a particular affect on me. I have been listening to in on Lala.com over and over again. His songs have such powerful turns of phrase. I am seriously considering allocating some funds in the budget to download his stuff. I especially love his songs "Hosea" and "The Good Confession." His other stuff is really good, too. If you find music that is biblically accurate, Christ exalting, and that nurishes you spiritually, let me know about it. It may be something I haven't heard, but need to.
Message plays a large part in what I deem to be "good" music. I listen to the words, not just the music. Another thing that is important to me is the lifestyle of the singer or group (and the songwriters). I want to know that the artists are trying to live the life. I don't expect perfection, but I do want consistency. A few years ago, I was grieved when a song written by a non-believer won the best song of the year at the Dove awards (an awards show for Christian performers). It bugged me that such a thing could happen. When the message is biblically accurate, Christ exalting, and backed up with consistent testimony I find it easy to enjoy the music.
So, don't be shocked if you see me bobbing down the road to the base-thumping sound of Voice, or rocking along to Apologetix or Rush of Fools. Soon you may here me listening to the mellow, folksy and powerful tunes of Andrew Peterson. His music has had a particular affect on me. I have been listening to in on Lala.com over and over again. His songs have such powerful turns of phrase. I am seriously considering allocating some funds in the budget to download his stuff. I especially love his songs "Hosea" and "The Good Confession." His other stuff is really good, too. If you find music that is biblically accurate, Christ exalting, and that nurishes you spiritually, let me know about it. It may be something I haven't heard, but need to.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Careful Thought
"The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps" (Prov. 14:15, ESV).
This proverb isn't suggesting a radical skepticism that doubts everything, but it is suggesting that we give careful attentive thought to everything we encounter. There are many things in this world that seem to be to good to be true, and most of them are. However, as believers we are called to investigate, to study, and to be ready to give an answer. Sometimes, that is easier to do than others.
Take the time to study God's Word. Know why you believe what you profess to believe. Never stop learning. If you have questions, ask someone who might know or will at least know where to find the answers. Simplicity is a wonderful thing, simple-mindedness is not. We are called to give thought to our steps.
This proverb isn't suggesting a radical skepticism that doubts everything, but it is suggesting that we give careful attentive thought to everything we encounter. There are many things in this world that seem to be to good to be true, and most of them are. However, as believers we are called to investigate, to study, and to be ready to give an answer. Sometimes, that is easier to do than others.
Take the time to study God's Word. Know why you believe what you profess to believe. Never stop learning. If you have questions, ask someone who might know or will at least know where to find the answers. Simplicity is a wonderful thing, simple-mindedness is not. We are called to give thought to our steps.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Work Heartily for the Lord
Around sixth or seventh grade I discovered a powerful philosophy which shaped much of my middle school and high school careers. In fact, I still find myself seeking to shake the influence of that philosophy. The budding young philosopher who sought to mentor me, and did mentor me for several years was quick of wit, charismatic, and yellow. Yes, although it pains me to admit it, I was a Bart Simpson fan. Something about his sarcastic, mischievous, rebellious, slacker attitude resonated deep within me.
I had a giant button with Bart declaring on it that he was an underachiever and proud of it. That button sat on my desk at home. It reminded me that only suckers wasted their evenings doing homework. It reminded me that there were better things to do. Who need to crack books when there were jokes to crack. Whenever motivation stirred in my heart, I could look at that button and the desire to succeed faded. Why bother even trying?
Under Bart's tutelage I came to see my father as another bald, doughy Homer, and my mother as a well-meaning, loving Marge, who just didn't get it. I found myself emotionally disconnecting from everyone around me and resenting them for not understanding me. Rebellion was the heart of Bart's message and it stirred rebellion in my heart. Well, I should say, rebellion was already in my heart, Bart just help me to focus it.
As I slipped farther into Bart's training, I began to think nothing really mattered. "Why try?" was the mantra of my life. Bart's skillful rhetoric landed me in an afterschool tutorial program in the ninth grade. I got a D in biology during the first quarter and it was either go to the after school program or get booted down to a lower level biology class. If you have never been in an after school tutoring program, let me tell you-you don't want to go to an after school tutoring program, especially in the fall. I got on the bus in the dark and got home in the dark.
The first afternoon my teacher was kind enough to stay late to help me with my problem. Imagine her suprise when I opened my brand new biology textbook and the spine cracked because it had never been opened in previous eight weeks. Needless to say, I got a stern talking to. But, all I could hear was Bart saying, "Underachiever and proud of it, man" and "Eat my shorts." He was continually with me, encouraging me to try less, squeek by, to do just enough.
About a year after I graduated high school, I met someone else who took me under his wing. He also sought to teach me. He pointed out the rebellion in my heart, and instead of coaxing it out or stirring it into a frenzy he told me it was wicked. As the Holy Spirit continued to press the truth of Scripture on my heart, I began to realize that my rebellion wasn't just against my parents, or a world that didn't understand me, or a system that was designed to keep me from succeeding. My rebellion was really against the Lord and his authority.
By the grace of God, the Holy Spirit, enabled my heart to repent of my sin and to believe the gospel. I had to part ways with Bart, although I occassionally see him from time to time. And I still hear him urging me to wave the "underachiever" banner high, but not too high, especially when I am faced with a task that I find unpleasant or when something fun comes up. But Christ deserves (and demands) more than a half-hearted attempt. Although we are not seeking to achieve his favor, we should be striving to show him the depth of our love and gratitude.
You may have never been a Bart Simpson fan, you may have never seen an episode of that show, but that doesn't mean that you haven't been influenced by its philosophy. Whenever we are tempted to rebel against authority or to refuse to give our all, we are living out Bart's philosophy. However, Bart's philosophy is older than the Simpsons. It's older than Maynard G. Krebs. It goes all the way back to Garden of Eden and the Serpent who stirred rebellion in the heart of Adam and Eve. The good news is that Jesus has achieved forgiveness for those who trust him. He has made it possible for us to achieve many good works for his glory. As Paul reminds us, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Jesus Christ" (Col. 3:23-24).
I had a giant button with Bart declaring on it that he was an underachiever and proud of it. That button sat on my desk at home. It reminded me that only suckers wasted their evenings doing homework. It reminded me that there were better things to do. Who need to crack books when there were jokes to crack. Whenever motivation stirred in my heart, I could look at that button and the desire to succeed faded. Why bother even trying?
Under Bart's tutelage I came to see my father as another bald, doughy Homer, and my mother as a well-meaning, loving Marge, who just didn't get it. I found myself emotionally disconnecting from everyone around me and resenting them for not understanding me. Rebellion was the heart of Bart's message and it stirred rebellion in my heart. Well, I should say, rebellion was already in my heart, Bart just help me to focus it.
As I slipped farther into Bart's training, I began to think nothing really mattered. "Why try?" was the mantra of my life. Bart's skillful rhetoric landed me in an afterschool tutorial program in the ninth grade. I got a D in biology during the first quarter and it was either go to the after school program or get booted down to a lower level biology class. If you have never been in an after school tutoring program, let me tell you-you don't want to go to an after school tutoring program, especially in the fall. I got on the bus in the dark and got home in the dark.
The first afternoon my teacher was kind enough to stay late to help me with my problem. Imagine her suprise when I opened my brand new biology textbook and the spine cracked because it had never been opened in previous eight weeks. Needless to say, I got a stern talking to. But, all I could hear was Bart saying, "Underachiever and proud of it, man" and "Eat my shorts." He was continually with me, encouraging me to try less, squeek by, to do just enough.
About a year after I graduated high school, I met someone else who took me under his wing. He also sought to teach me. He pointed out the rebellion in my heart, and instead of coaxing it out or stirring it into a frenzy he told me it was wicked. As the Holy Spirit continued to press the truth of Scripture on my heart, I began to realize that my rebellion wasn't just against my parents, or a world that didn't understand me, or a system that was designed to keep me from succeeding. My rebellion was really against the Lord and his authority.
By the grace of God, the Holy Spirit, enabled my heart to repent of my sin and to believe the gospel. I had to part ways with Bart, although I occassionally see him from time to time. And I still hear him urging me to wave the "underachiever" banner high, but not too high, especially when I am faced with a task that I find unpleasant or when something fun comes up. But Christ deserves (and demands) more than a half-hearted attempt. Although we are not seeking to achieve his favor, we should be striving to show him the depth of our love and gratitude.
You may have never been a Bart Simpson fan, you may have never seen an episode of that show, but that doesn't mean that you haven't been influenced by its philosophy. Whenever we are tempted to rebel against authority or to refuse to give our all, we are living out Bart's philosophy. However, Bart's philosophy is older than the Simpsons. It's older than Maynard G. Krebs. It goes all the way back to Garden of Eden and the Serpent who stirred rebellion in the heart of Adam and Eve. The good news is that Jesus has achieved forgiveness for those who trust him. He has made it possible for us to achieve many good works for his glory. As Paul reminds us, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Jesus Christ" (Col. 3:23-24).
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Sermon Preview 4-19-09
Morning: We will have a guest speaker from the Gideons. It is a wonderful time to refamiliarize ourselves with their important ministry.
Evening: I am prayerful considering a couple different options for this service. Please pray with me.
Evening: I am prayerful considering a couple different options for this service. Please pray with me.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Fear of Failure
"In all toil there is a profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty" (Prov. 14:23).
The world is full of opportunity for those who seize the moment. However, many people never reach for the "brass ring," as I have heard it called, because they are afraid they will never reach it. But is never reaching the brass ring really such a terrible thing? I mean, the reality is that by not attempting to reach it, one has already accepted defeat, and thus, guaranteed that he will never reach it.
Fear of failure is a terrible master. It continually berates its servants for thinking that they can accomplish anything, pounds hope from their hearts and heads, and then leaves them immersed in their phobia. By not doing anything, one has already failed. Is living with the regret of what could have been easier than living with the regret of what wasn't? Is there not some consolation in having tried that doesn't exist for those who never tried?
This proverb reminds us that all toil is profitable. It isn't just that when we work we get money, but that in effort there is reward. Sometimes, it is success in the shape of attaining a dream. Sometimes, the reward is a lesson on patience or perseverance. Wish and wanting and talking are not rewarding. They're empty. Proverbs 14:23 informs us that it is worth the effort to pursue a dream with hard work and determination.
Let us not settle for "what could have been," without first giving everything we have to see could be with a little more effort, another call, one more letter. When every avenue of hope has been exhausted, when only answer to our persistent praying is no, when every door is shut tight in our face, then, and only then, should we consider moving on. Until then we need to toil with all our might trusting God will reward us in the way he deems best.
The world is full of opportunity for those who seize the moment. However, many people never reach for the "brass ring," as I have heard it called, because they are afraid they will never reach it. But is never reaching the brass ring really such a terrible thing? I mean, the reality is that by not attempting to reach it, one has already accepted defeat, and thus, guaranteed that he will never reach it.
Fear of failure is a terrible master. It continually berates its servants for thinking that they can accomplish anything, pounds hope from their hearts and heads, and then leaves them immersed in their phobia. By not doing anything, one has already failed. Is living with the regret of what could have been easier than living with the regret of what wasn't? Is there not some consolation in having tried that doesn't exist for those who never tried?
This proverb reminds us that all toil is profitable. It isn't just that when we work we get money, but that in effort there is reward. Sometimes, it is success in the shape of attaining a dream. Sometimes, the reward is a lesson on patience or perseverance. Wish and wanting and talking are not rewarding. They're empty. Proverbs 14:23 informs us that it is worth the effort to pursue a dream with hard work and determination.
Let us not settle for "what could have been," without first giving everything we have to see could be with a little more effort, another call, one more letter. When every avenue of hope has been exhausted, when only answer to our persistent praying is no, when every door is shut tight in our face, then, and only then, should we consider moving on. Until then we need to toil with all our might trusting God will reward us in the way he deems best.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Sermon Review 4-12-09
Sunrise: We looked at 1 Corinthians 15:1-9 to remind us of the importance of the resurrection of Christ. Easter should be a time of jubilant celebration and solemn reflection for all that Christ has done on our behalf.
Morning: We concluded our seven sayings of the cross series by looking at John 19:30 where Jesus states, "It is finished." The statement leaves us asking the question, what is finished. In one respect Jesus is expressing that the prophecies concerning his death and resurrection were complete. His suffering and humiliation were over. In another respect, he was pronouncing that his mission was over.
Jesus' mission was to seek and save the lost. It was to give his life a ransom for many. His mission was completed on the cross. Thus, through faith in his death and resurrection, we can enter into the Father's presence fully accepted and loved by God. His death has "finished" our sin. He has paid the price for our redemption and has purchased life for us. He has "finished" our alienation from God and brought us to the Father. He has finished our "guilt" and "shame" and made us new creatures with new natures and new futures.
Morning: We concluded our seven sayings of the cross series by looking at John 19:30 where Jesus states, "It is finished." The statement leaves us asking the question, what is finished. In one respect Jesus is expressing that the prophecies concerning his death and resurrection were complete. His suffering and humiliation were over. In another respect, he was pronouncing that his mission was over.
Jesus' mission was to seek and save the lost. It was to give his life a ransom for many. His mission was completed on the cross. Thus, through faith in his death and resurrection, we can enter into the Father's presence fully accepted and loved by God. His death has "finished" our sin. He has paid the price for our redemption and has purchased life for us. He has "finished" our alienation from God and brought us to the Father. He has finished our "guilt" and "shame" and made us new creatures with new natures and new futures.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Happy Easter
I hope you have a joyous and glorious Resurrection Day celebration. Remember that Jesus accomplished redemption for us on the cross. As the author of Hebrews said,
Have a great day celebrating the reality of the resurrection. If you are in Christ then you are truly forgiven and free. He has taken away your sin. He has brought you his life. God bless and have wonderful day.
And every priest stands daily at his service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified (Hebrews 10:11-14).
Have a great day celebrating the reality of the resurrection. If you are in Christ then you are truly forgiven and free. He has taken away your sin. He has brought you his life. God bless and have wonderful day.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Easter Eve
It is the eve of Resurrection Sunday. I am thinking about the sunrise service. I'm thinking about that journey to an empty tomb nearly two thousand years ago. I'm thinking about the implications of an empty tomb. He is alive. Jesus is alive. He is alive!
I fear at times we stop short at the fact that Jesus died. We think of the cross as a finality. Death is something with which we are familiar. We fully comprehend the death and burial of Jesus as events even if we don't fully comprehend their significance. But, the resurrection is something foreign to us. We have not stood at the grave and saw death defeated. Yet, death is defeated.
Jesus is alive! At this moment he is seated at the right hand of the Father. He is the king on high. All things are being brought under him. He is exalted to the highest place, he has a name that is above every name. And because he is alive, we can have life. Those who trust in him have life. His life. We are alive, because he is alive.
Lord willing, Monticello will gather in the morning the watch the sunrise and to be reminded of that first day when the proclamation came, "He is not here, he is risen." We will gather and talk about the resurrection with awe, wonder, and longing. And we will remind ourselves that we are looking to the day when the Son will come for his church. Even so, Lord Jesus, quickly come.
I fear at times we stop short at the fact that Jesus died. We think of the cross as a finality. Death is something with which we are familiar. We fully comprehend the death and burial of Jesus as events even if we don't fully comprehend their significance. But, the resurrection is something foreign to us. We have not stood at the grave and saw death defeated. Yet, death is defeated.
Jesus is alive! At this moment he is seated at the right hand of the Father. He is the king on high. All things are being brought under him. He is exalted to the highest place, he has a name that is above every name. And because he is alive, we can have life. Those who trust in him have life. His life. We are alive, because he is alive.
Lord willing, Monticello will gather in the morning the watch the sunrise and to be reminded of that first day when the proclamation came, "He is not here, he is risen." We will gather and talk about the resurrection with awe, wonder, and longing. And we will remind ourselves that we are looking to the day when the Son will come for his church. Even so, Lord Jesus, quickly come.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Reminders of the Fall
I was looking out the window this morning and noticed a new dent on my truck. Apparently, a limb or something landed a rather hard blow to the roof. I am a bit ashamed to admit it, but it grieved me a little to see the dent. Not that there aren't other dents on the truck. There was one on it when I bought it--the only flaw in an otherwise flawless vehicle. Since I bought it, someone has dented the front passenger's side fender, I dented the front driver's side fender by running over a post in the front yard, and during the ice storm a limb ripped off the driver's side mirror. Then on top of all of those things, there have been mechanical problems and rusting.
Looking at my truck this morning in its diminishing glory made me long for better days. I wanted to turn back the clock or at least halt the steady crawl into ruin. As I stood there looking out the window mourning a dent in my truck, a thought occurred to me: it's a machine. It doesn't know me, it doesn't love me, it couldn't care less if I praise it or curse it. It is a lifeless object designed to serve one purpose: transportation. It is only a thing, and yet, I care about it.
A Scripture came to mind as I stared out the window, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal" (Matt. 6:19). As I thought about this passage, I couldn't help but be reminded of two facts. First, this world is in a fallen condition. Adam's sin has subjected this world to bondage. Second, this world and its conditional are passing away. Somehow I doubt I'll be driving a glorified version of my truck in the new earth.
The slow (and emotionally painful) decay of my truck is only a symptom of a greater tragedy. Paul stated, "For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies" (Rom. 8:22-23). There is within all of us the knowledge that the way things are isn't the way they are supposed to be.
But thank God, better things are coming. Sin, hell, and death have been defeated. One day, by faith, we shall see the new heavens and the new earth. All of the decay that reflects the fallenness of creation will be gone. As Jesus said, "Behold, I make all things new" (Rev. 21:5). As I think about the significance of the death and resurrection of Christ, a new dent in my truck seems like a trivial distraction. But, it does remind me that my soul, which was marred by sin and corruption, was redeemed. By the grace of God, I was not consigned to the junk heep. God the Father sent his Son into the world to redeem a people for his glory. Jesus, the Son, in his infinite mercy purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree. The Holy Spirit in his gracious kindness enabled me to trust in Jesus' work on the cross.
Unlike my truck, I'm being renewed day by day. Unlike my truck, I care what the One who owns me thinks about me. I desire his praise; I fear his curse. I stand amazed at the fact that Jesus bore the curse for me. Paul informs us, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us--for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree'" (Gal. 3:13). The cross changes everything. When one truly understands the cross it causes a radical shifting of priorities. This world and its trinkets no longer have a hold on us. Let us turn our attention to the cross and find in Christ the hope of renewal.
Looking at my truck this morning in its diminishing glory made me long for better days. I wanted to turn back the clock or at least halt the steady crawl into ruin. As I stood there looking out the window mourning a dent in my truck, a thought occurred to me: it's a machine. It doesn't know me, it doesn't love me, it couldn't care less if I praise it or curse it. It is a lifeless object designed to serve one purpose: transportation. It is only a thing, and yet, I care about it.
A Scripture came to mind as I stared out the window, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal" (Matt. 6:19). As I thought about this passage, I couldn't help but be reminded of two facts. First, this world is in a fallen condition. Adam's sin has subjected this world to bondage. Second, this world and its conditional are passing away. Somehow I doubt I'll be driving a glorified version of my truck in the new earth.
The slow (and emotionally painful) decay of my truck is only a symptom of a greater tragedy. Paul stated, "For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies" (Rom. 8:22-23). There is within all of us the knowledge that the way things are isn't the way they are supposed to be.
But thank God, better things are coming. Sin, hell, and death have been defeated. One day, by faith, we shall see the new heavens and the new earth. All of the decay that reflects the fallenness of creation will be gone. As Jesus said, "Behold, I make all things new" (Rev. 21:5). As I think about the significance of the death and resurrection of Christ, a new dent in my truck seems like a trivial distraction. But, it does remind me that my soul, which was marred by sin and corruption, was redeemed. By the grace of God, I was not consigned to the junk heep. God the Father sent his Son into the world to redeem a people for his glory. Jesus, the Son, in his infinite mercy purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree. The Holy Spirit in his gracious kindness enabled me to trust in Jesus' work on the cross.
Unlike my truck, I'm being renewed day by day. Unlike my truck, I care what the One who owns me thinks about me. I desire his praise; I fear his curse. I stand amazed at the fact that Jesus bore the curse for me. Paul informs us, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us--for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree'" (Gal. 3:13). The cross changes everything. When one truly understands the cross it causes a radical shifting of priorities. This world and its trinkets no longer have a hold on us. Let us turn our attention to the cross and find in Christ the hope of renewal.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Consider Him
"Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted" (Hebrews 12:3).
We are called as Jesus' followers to continually meditate on his accomplished work. We look to Jesus as more than an example. It goes farther than What Would Jesus Do? We needed his work to cleanse us from our unrighteousness, and we continue to need his work to sustain us. This verse isn't suggesting we look to Jesus to see how to pattern our life, it is telling us to look to Jesus and remember that he has paid the penalty for our sin, so now, we are free from sin.
Considering what Jesus suffered, on our behalf, has the power to encourage the heart. When we remember that Jesus accomplished his work on the cross, before we knew him, before we loved him, and before we even knew we need a Savior, we are freed to live in the confidence that his love will never fail. What he endured to bring us to him will never be undone.
No amount of hardship can separate us from his love, in fact, the author of Hebrews reminds us that hardship is to be endured as discipline. He also tells us that discipline reminds us that we are beloved children, objects of the Father's care. As we consider what Christ has suffered and what he has purchased in his death we know that, through him, we are acceptable to the Father.
As another passage so eloquently puts it, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).
We are called as Jesus' followers to continually meditate on his accomplished work. We look to Jesus as more than an example. It goes farther than What Would Jesus Do? We needed his work to cleanse us from our unrighteousness, and we continue to need his work to sustain us. This verse isn't suggesting we look to Jesus to see how to pattern our life, it is telling us to look to Jesus and remember that he has paid the penalty for our sin, so now, we are free from sin.
Considering what Jesus suffered, on our behalf, has the power to encourage the heart. When we remember that Jesus accomplished his work on the cross, before we knew him, before we loved him, and before we even knew we need a Savior, we are freed to live in the confidence that his love will never fail. What he endured to bring us to him will never be undone.
No amount of hardship can separate us from his love, in fact, the author of Hebrews reminds us that hardship is to be endured as discipline. He also tells us that discipline reminds us that we are beloved children, objects of the Father's care. As we consider what Christ has suffered and what he has purchased in his death we know that, through him, we are acceptable to the Father.
As another passage so eloquently puts it, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Music Listening Site
Serendipity can be defined as the gift of finding valuable things for which one has not searched. It also describes the discovery of lala.com. A couple of days ago, Dr. Moore mentioned a song, unfamiliar to me, on his blog. The next day, Justin Taylor posted a link to that song on lala. Lala.com is a great place to find music (they have all kinds). You can listen to any song or album once for free. If you sign up for the service (which is free) they give you 50 credits. You can find how it works here. Downloads are inexpensive and are compatible with iTunes and Windows Media Player. So far I have been able to listen to some pretty good music. You might want to try it out.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Sermon Preview 4-12-09
Morning: Easter services will begin with the traditional sunrise service at 6:15 a.m. The message for sunrise service will come from 1 Corinthians 15:1-9.
The regular service (11:00 a.m.) will have a message from John 19:30. This is the last saying from the cross that we will examine. In this passage, Jesus states, "It is finished." The sermon will explore what Jesus meant and what it means for us.
Evening: No evening service.
The regular service (11:00 a.m.) will have a message from John 19:30. This is the last saying from the cross that we will examine. In this passage, Jesus states, "It is finished." The sermon will explore what Jesus meant and what it means for us.
Evening: No evening service.
Monday, April 6, 2009
The Old Rugged Cross
I am thinking about the cross. More particularly I am thinking about the old hymn, "The Old Rugged Cross" (written by George Bennard). The song conveys a powerful message concerning the cross. It reminds us of what Jesus endured upon the cross on our behalf. Meditate, with me, on these words:
Oh, that the power of the cross were ever before us, shaping our hearts and mind. Have you looked to the wondrous beauty of the cross? If not turn your mind's eye to that hill far away, and see that old rugged cross.
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suff'ring and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.
Oh, that old rugged cross so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left his glory above,
To bear it to dark Calvary.
Chorus:
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.
In the old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see;
For 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true,
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then he'll call me some day to my home far away,
Where is glory forever I'll share.
Oh, that the power of the cross were ever before us, shaping our hearts and mind. Have you looked to the wondrous beauty of the cross? If not turn your mind's eye to that hill far away, and see that old rugged cross.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Sermon Review 4-5-09
Morning: We continued looking at the seven sayings of the cross. Today we focused on Luke 23:44-46. In this passage Jesus states, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." This expression teaches us at least two truths.
First it demonstrates that Jesus willingly died for our sins. He was not some helpless or hapless victim, we was a willing sacrifice. Jesus is (and always has been) eternally equal with the Father. We have to be careful that we don't confuse the distinctions in persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), with a division of essence, being, or will. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are not three gods, they are one in being, essence, and nature. However, the Father is not the Son nor the Spirit, the Son is not the Father nor the Spirit, and the Holy Spirit is not the Father nor the son. Three persons, one being. It was the Father's will to crush the Son for the sins of the world, but it was also the Son's will to be crushed.
Second, Jesus fully trusted that he would be accepted by the Father. There was no "hope so," no "maybe," and not even a "possibly." There was only a "Here is my Spirit." Jesus had confidence because he knew that he had completed the Father's will (perfectly), he had fulfilled the Scriptures, he trusted he would be raised to life, and that the Father would vindicate him.
We can have confidence in approaching the Father, if we come through the Son. The torn veil teaches us that Jesus has open the way into the presence of God, so that we may find the grace and mercy we need in times of trouble.
Evening: We marked up our Bibles tonight to prepare us for the task of Evangelism. Key passages were highlighted to simplify the task.
First it demonstrates that Jesus willingly died for our sins. He was not some helpless or hapless victim, we was a willing sacrifice. Jesus is (and always has been) eternally equal with the Father. We have to be careful that we don't confuse the distinctions in persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), with a division of essence, being, or will. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are not three gods, they are one in being, essence, and nature. However, the Father is not the Son nor the Spirit, the Son is not the Father nor the Spirit, and the Holy Spirit is not the Father nor the son. Three persons, one being. It was the Father's will to crush the Son for the sins of the world, but it was also the Son's will to be crushed.
Second, Jesus fully trusted that he would be accepted by the Father. There was no "hope so," no "maybe," and not even a "possibly." There was only a "Here is my Spirit." Jesus had confidence because he knew that he had completed the Father's will (perfectly), he had fulfilled the Scriptures, he trusted he would be raised to life, and that the Father would vindicate him.
We can have confidence in approaching the Father, if we come through the Son. The torn veil teaches us that Jesus has open the way into the presence of God, so that we may find the grace and mercy we need in times of trouble.
Evening: We marked up our Bibles tonight to prepare us for the task of Evangelism. Key passages were highlighted to simplify the task.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
More About Hymns
I have posted hymns on here lately for two reasons: first, they are a wealth of theological and devotional truths that are packaged in memorable ways, and second, it helps to examine them in different contexts. Often, when we sing songs week after week, month after month, year after year, we tend to sing them on "auto-pilot." Our brains know the words, we push air over our vocal chords, our lips move in the proper way to pronounce the words, but somewhere in the process our heart has dropped out. Over-familiarity breeds contempt, or at least complacency.
Yet, singing during worship should be more than the vocalization of theological and devotional truth. It should exude passion and praise. Our songs should flow from our inner being with intensity and emotion. Most of us have had the experience of being move deeply by a song. Whether the song made us laugh from our belly or cry from our soul, they affect us in ways we cannot always fully understand. Immediately, we file them away in our memory banks for later use.
If a song about something in this fading world can touch us so powerfully, shouldn't songs about the great and eternally glorified King of kings and Lord of lords move us? And sometimes they do. When was the last time you were moved when you sang, "Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow?"
The thought of blessings flowing into our lives from God should cause us to break out in singing, just as the song suggests. Let us praise him. Take time to meditate on the hymns that we sing, and even the ones we don't. It helps make their meaning sink into our hearts, and flow freely in our singing.
Yet, singing during worship should be more than the vocalization of theological and devotional truth. It should exude passion and praise. Our songs should flow from our inner being with intensity and emotion. Most of us have had the experience of being move deeply by a song. Whether the song made us laugh from our belly or cry from our soul, they affect us in ways we cannot always fully understand. Immediately, we file them away in our memory banks for later use.
If a song about something in this fading world can touch us so powerfully, shouldn't songs about the great and eternally glorified King of kings and Lord of lords move us? And sometimes they do. When was the last time you were moved when you sang, "Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow?"
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise him all creatures here below;
Praise him above, ye heav'nly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
The thought of blessings flowing into our lives from God should cause us to break out in singing, just as the song suggests. Let us praise him. Take time to meditate on the hymns that we sing, and even the ones we don't. It helps make their meaning sink into our hearts, and flow freely in our singing.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Brotherly Love
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!" (Ps. 133:1)
David's words have spiritual overtones to them, but they also speak to the reality of earthly life. It is a good things when brothers live in unity. I got to hang out with my brothers tonight. I don't get to do it as often as I would like. We usually have a good time together. We all love to laugh, usually at each other, but in a gentle loving way. We never know what all will come up in conversation. Sometimes we start with a game of "catch-up," where we lay out the details of our lives since we last saw each other. Other times, we stroll down memory lane. Or we talk about our families, hopes, and dreams. We may discuss our difficulties or heartaches. Occasionally, we may talk politics, but never for long. We meet together as friends and equals, the sibling rivalry of childhood long ago laid to rest. We are the products of our parents, raised to love each other, to overcome division and strife, to pull together and lift each other up.
I'm not saying we don't ever disagree. Sometimes there has been great disagreement, however no matter what occurs we always find ourselves coming back together. The struggles never truly diminish the love we have for each other. I am convinced that we are all aware that we stand the strongest, when we stand together. We have learned through the years as we age and mature that we need each other. As we gather together, we seek to keep the past in check and focus on the here and now. We have made our peace in times past and let by-gones be by-gones. We are all close to our mid-point in life, of course, they are closer to theirs than I am mine. I think that reality has driven us to seek unity. None of us know how much longer we have, and we don't want to waste it on petty disagreements that we would regret, if we were to loose one another. Life is too short. So I say with David tonight, It is good when brothers dwell in unity.
David's words have spiritual overtones to them, but they also speak to the reality of earthly life. It is a good things when brothers live in unity. I got to hang out with my brothers tonight. I don't get to do it as often as I would like. We usually have a good time together. We all love to laugh, usually at each other, but in a gentle loving way. We never know what all will come up in conversation. Sometimes we start with a game of "catch-up," where we lay out the details of our lives since we last saw each other. Other times, we stroll down memory lane. Or we talk about our families, hopes, and dreams. We may discuss our difficulties or heartaches. Occasionally, we may talk politics, but never for long. We meet together as friends and equals, the sibling rivalry of childhood long ago laid to rest. We are the products of our parents, raised to love each other, to overcome division and strife, to pull together and lift each other up.
I'm not saying we don't ever disagree. Sometimes there has been great disagreement, however no matter what occurs we always find ourselves coming back together. The struggles never truly diminish the love we have for each other. I am convinced that we are all aware that we stand the strongest, when we stand together. We have learned through the years as we age and mature that we need each other. As we gather together, we seek to keep the past in check and focus on the here and now. We have made our peace in times past and let by-gones be by-gones. We are all close to our mid-point in life, of course, they are closer to theirs than I am mine. I think that reality has driven us to seek unity. None of us know how much longer we have, and we don't want to waste it on petty disagreements that we would regret, if we were to loose one another. Life is too short. So I say with David tonight, It is good when brothers dwell in unity.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Spring Is in the Air
The sun was out as I drove to work this morning. Once brown fields are bursting to life in rich vibrant greens. The trees are in blossom. Spring is in the air. I was thinking about that when I drove to work, and about the renewal process. But, as I turned a curve I saw something that reminded me that even in the midst of renewal death is ever present. That something was a vulture eating a raccoon that didn't make it across the road. I began to think about the temporariness of renewal here on earth, and began to long for the great renewal when Christ returns. As Spring erupts around us, remember it's only a shadow of better things to come.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Distractions
I try to avoid distractions prior to preaching and teaching, but sometimes its difficult. Sometimes, I can be so singularly focuses that I cannot "let go" of something. This focus usually occurs when I encounter a problem that arrests my attention. For example, this afternoon I cut some pages out of a workbook to laminate. Somehow I misplaced one of the pages. Instead of making a copy from a duplicate workbook (the time saving, logical choice), I retraced my steps at least three times, went through several workbooks and paper piles, looked to see if the pages had been laminated together, crawled under my desk (not an easy task), and finally looked in illogical places--all to no avail. I am still thinking about that missing page. It bothers me, it bothered me at work, it bothered me on the drive home, and it will probably haunt me in my sleep. It's the curse of single-minded focus.
Other times, I am very easily distracted. Especially, if I don't want to do something. I'm like a kid who would rather play catch than rake the leaves. My procrastination stems, in part, from a tendency toward perfectionism. I want everything decently and in order. However, I am not quite sure what that should look like so I avoid doing anything in an attempt to avoid messing it up. Inevitably time slips away, and the task has to be done, so I rush to do it. The desire to get finished surpasses the desire to do it perfectly. I am working on overcoming my procrastination and perfectionism, but they are hard habits to break.
Distraction also comes when I have too many thoughts running through my head or if something is bothering me. It's difficult to overcome mental overload. A word or a phrase can send me chasing a thought through a series of seemingly unrelated memories, only to have one of those memories send my mind racing off in another direction. Usually, I do pretty good at staying on track, but occasionally a chase a rabbit (or ten). All I can say is thank you for your patience.
Other times, I am very easily distracted. Especially, if I don't want to do something. I'm like a kid who would rather play catch than rake the leaves. My procrastination stems, in part, from a tendency toward perfectionism. I want everything decently and in order. However, I am not quite sure what that should look like so I avoid doing anything in an attempt to avoid messing it up. Inevitably time slips away, and the task has to be done, so I rush to do it. The desire to get finished surpasses the desire to do it perfectly. I am working on overcoming my procrastination and perfectionism, but they are hard habits to break.
Distraction also comes when I have too many thoughts running through my head or if something is bothering me. It's difficult to overcome mental overload. A word or a phrase can send me chasing a thought through a series of seemingly unrelated memories, only to have one of those memories send my mind racing off in another direction. Usually, I do pretty good at staying on track, but occasionally a chase a rabbit (or ten). All I can say is thank you for your patience.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)