Sermon Recap 1-31-10

Morning:  This morning we looked at a "Call To Repentance," from Joel 2:12-14.  In this passage, the Lord calls his people to return.  This return was to come with a whole hearted search that included fasting, weeping and mourning.  They were to stop going through the motions and approach God with a heart broken over sin.  God reminded them that he was gracious, compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in love, and that he relented of sending calamity.  The passage ends with a reminder that grace should never be presumed upon, only trusted in.

Evening:  No Services.

Hard Decisions

The snow outside has forced me to make a tough decision.  I hate making tough decisions.  It goes against the core of my being (sometimes I fear that I might be part jellyfish).  I had to decide whether we would have church services tomorrow, or if we should cancel.  One of the few things I hate more than tough decisions is missing church, especially the morning service.  My whole week seems off without it.

The worst part of the decision making process is that often decisions have to be made when we don't have all the necessary information.  Decisions concerning tomorrow run less risk of being the wrong one if we can make them while eliminating a lot of variables.  That is to say, if there are not many "unknowns" which must be considered, decisions are easier to make and usually more accurate.

Let me illustrate with this current dilemma.  Looking out my window this morning, I saw snow (and for our area, lots of it).  There was no sign of an attempt at clearing the roads.  It was cold, and would only probably  get colder.  Then the question arises, "What are we doing about church tomorrow?" Now a decision had to be made.

Wisdom dictates that we approach a dilemma with careful consideration.  It is helpful at this time to turn to wise voices, and ask questions.  However, there are times were the wise do not agree.  The decision becomes more difficult as we weigh the differing opinions of wise people.  Some voices point out that the snow, and subsequent ice, will create a dangerous situation where people might get hurt.  They rightly point out that it is not a sin to cancel services under certain circumstances.  Others stress that the necessities of life, like work, would require that they be out in the weather any way.  They rightly point out that people whose churches have dismissed services might look for another place to worship.  They mention potential visitors who might not make the "call list."

Added to this dilemma is the growing pangs of conscience.  I live within walking distance of the church I serve.  I feel guilty anytime we cancel services, because I can be there.  I know that other people can't, and I don't fault them in the least.  But I feel pressed to be there, because you can never be sure who might show up.  I am not legislated to be there by some legalistic drive, but I am compelled to be there by a strong desire to worship with God's people. 

Thus, as a pastor I am torn between my concern for the people I serve (especially the really young and the elderly), and my conscience.  I have no verse that leads me to conclude that it is a sin to cancel services in situations like these, but the knowledge that I can make it to church compels me to be there. It is not wise to sin against one's conscience.  So in faith, I decided to hold the am worship service, and urge others to follow their consciences.  If any one feels that it isn't safe to venture out to church, they need to stay home (and feel good about their decision).  Only let the decision be made in faith.

When the Bible doesn't tell us exactly what to do in given situation, we have to use sanctified common sense.  A decision should only be made after we have prayed, sought wise counsel, measured all the variables we can, and labored to discover the best course of action.  Yet, even after every effort is made sometimes decisions have to be made in gray areas.  Sometimes we have to pick the greater of two goods, and trust God for the results.  At times like these, we must obey our conscience.  A person whose conscience says stay in out of the snow, shouldn't feel bad because their neighbor's conscience says go to church.  They should stay in and heed their conscience, and thank God that their neighbor heed their own.

Decisions that do not directly conflict with God's words (in letter or spirit), are not proven right or wrong by the approval or disapproval of those around us.  They aren't proven right by the fact that our conscience seems appeased, nor are they proven wrong by fact that our conscience is displeased.  We will only know if they were right or wrong when we stand at the judgment.  We live by faith and not by sight.  I am not trying to say that my decisions are beyond questioning.  Sometimes we make an educated guess, with the best of intentions, and things don't work out like we planned.  God is still able.  He is still in control.  Jesus still upholds us in the presence of the Father.  If we err, he will correct our course.  Ultimately, we make decisions, in faith, that God will see us through.

Hard decision have to be made.  After prayerful and careful searching, we must pick a course of action to follow.  Then, by faith, we set out.  It is good to remember as we travel, that most decisions are not final or fatal.  There is room for changing our mind in light of new evidence.  To have peace with tough decisions, it helps to have a good understanding of the Word of God, a humble heart, and a willing spirit.  If we are seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, he won't abandon us.  So even if we make the wrong choice, he has a way of turning it around.

Note to Monticello:  Let me say first, I love you all dearly.  I do not desire to see any one injured.  So please, if you are elderly or afraid of getting injured in the snow and ice, stay home.  No one is going to judge you if you aren't at church this Sunday.  I don't think God will be disappointed if you stay home to avoid injury.  But if you are going to be out and about anyway this Sunday, join us for worship at 11:00 a.m.

Don't Let Opposition Set You Back

Sometimes I think obstacles occur in our lives to test the true weight of our desires.  I can remember wanting to play an instrument when I was younger.  However, the want to never manifested it self in actual practice.  Sure, I would plunk on my keyboard for short periods of time, but never to the point that I learned a song.  The desire for playing an instrument was never really that great in my life (although sometimes it seems to continue to grow).

Times of testing have often revealed to me what I really want.  If I believe an idea has merit and that pursuing it might be a good idea, I am usually very willing to try it.  However, if I am not absolutely convinced that this is what God would have me to do, or that it is the only right course of action, I find that opposition causes me to rethink my approach and reevaluate the idea.  Sometimes, I drop something because the opposition isn't worth it.  But when I am moved to conviction, and convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt, that an idea is the right thing to do, the thing that God has called me to, then opposition only makes me try harder.

I have learned a long time ago that I am a dreamer by nature.  I also know that not all ideas should become reality.  Somethings we attempt, for the glory of God, might not work out.  The Lord may have another plan, but that doesn't mean that it is a sin to attempt them.  Opposition does not mean that something isn't the will of God.  In fact, opposition usually means that we are doing the will of God (especially when it's the right kind of opposition).

We have to ask why opposition is against us.  Are we wrong?  That is, are we pushing for something that is meant to bring us glory and honor, when we should be seeking God's glory?  Have we misunderstood the Scriptures and thus misapplied them, so that those who hear us are really standing in opposition to error?  Or is the opposition against the sound interpretation and application of Scripture?  That is, do they know what you're saying is right, they just don't want to hear it?  Have we gone about things with an improper attitude, or in an unloving way that makes people feel used and angry?  We have to find the reason for the opposition.

If we know that our foundation rests in the obedient response to a sound interpretation and application of Scripture, and we know that we are moving at a gentle, loving pace, then we can be reasonably comfortable with the assertion that it is God' s work that is being opposed, and not us.  Once the nature of the opposition has been established, we can then turn that information into fuel for motivation.  The knowledge that you are doing the right thing, for the right reason, to the glory of God, should keep you from letting opposition from setting you back.

Finding More Favor

"Whoever rebukes a man will afterward find more favor than he who flatters with his tongue" (Prov. 28:23, ESV).

Proverbs express truths that are normally true, in most circumstance.  They are not absolute truths, or promises, that guarantee specific outcomes.  For instance, this proverb would not be true in the case of rebuking a fool (Prov. 17:10), or a scoffer (Prov. 13:1).  Nor would it be true in a case where the rebuke is misguide, that is, aimed at the wrong person or the wrong situation.

Rebuke is a biblical tool of change.  The wise yearn for it, for they know that they cannot always see things the way they are.  Our attitudes shape our opinions; they sometimes cloud our judgment.  It is helpful to have an "outside" opinion occasionally to help recalibrate our lives.

We should not understand the process of rebuking as undue harshness.  While there may be times that a rebuke must be delivered with harshness, it does not always have to be.  A rebuke points out an error in hopes that it will be corrected.  A rebuke acts a stop sign urging the listener to throw on the brakes.  It is better to rebuke from a genuine love and care for the person we are rebuking.

As we speak the truth in love, in generates appreciation in God's people.  Now the appreciation may not be immediate.  They may not hear our rebuke and then burst into the "Hallelujah Chorus."  There may be a time of anger that flows an initial rebuke, but in true believers it will pass.  Their anger will give way to gratitude as the Spirit works righteousness into their heart.

As their heart grows in gratitude, we see the truth of this proverb come to fruition.  When we perceive our error, and are able, by faith and repentance, to move past it, we esteem our rebuker more highly.  It is natural for believers to honor those who steer them back into the path of righteousness, whenever they have drifted.

Don't withhold correction from those to whom it is due.  Don't flatter when you should rebuke, no one will love you for it (except maybe a fool).  Don't be angry when you are rebuked, but rather rejoice in the knowledge that someone loves you enough to direct you back to the straight and narrow.  When was the last time you thanked someone for lovingly rebuking you?  Maybe you should think about thanking them.

Here I Am, Send Someone Else

"But he said, "Oh, my Lord, please send someone else'" (Exod. 4:13, ESV).

This quote is not one of Moses' greatest moments.  He is standing at the burning bush receiving his call to ministry, and all he can think about is getting out of it.  Right before Moses utters these words the Lord promises him, that he would be given the words to say.  The Lord says, "Who has made man's mouth? Who makes him mute, or deaf, or seeing, or blind?  Is it not I?  Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak" (Exod. 4:11-12, ESV).  Moses' "slow of speech" excuse had been rejected, and his only response is send someone else.

It really boggles the mind.  I imagine this scene over and over in my mind.  I envision the bush ablaze with flames.  My mind hears the voice of the Lord as a pounding thunder.  I see Moses, amazed and cowering, at the awesome display of God's might.  And each time I get to this part, I can't image how Moses works up the courage to ask God to send somebody else.  I can't seem to get into his head to figure out how he could do such a thing.

Then the Lord brings back to my mind other scenes.  In these scenes, I recognize myself as the main character.  I watch as the Lord speaks to me through his Word, but I refuse to listen.  I hear him prompt me to go and share the gospel, but I see me asking him to send someone else.  And I wonder where I got the nerve.

Who am I to judge Moses?  His fear no less noble than my own.  If anything, his cowardice was more justified than mine, because he hadn't seen the whole plan of God laid out in Scripture.  He had seen the faithfulness of God demonstrated in the life of saint after saint, in both the Old and New Testaments.  He had heard of the God of his fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but until this moment he had probably never heard him.  His fear was both natural and irrational.  It was natural because man struggles to comprehend the will of God.  It was irrational because he was receiving revelation from God that assured him success.

But when we doubt the Word, it is unnatural and irrational.  It is unnatural because as believers in Christ we are indwelt by the Spirit who confirms the witness of Scripture to our hearts.  When we ignore that witness we are not acting in accordance with our nature.  It is irrational to doubt God's Word, because it is God's revelation of himself to us, and we are assured success if we obey it.

What we must remember about this episode in Moses' life is how God responded to his request.  Moses records, "The anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses" (Exod. 4:14a, ESV).  The Lord became angry with Moses, because Moses did not trust him.  The Lord had given Moses several signs, but Moses was unwilling to obey.  We can draw a lesson from this event, namely, when the Lord calls you to do something, do it quickly.  To delay is to disobey.  We must remember that whatever task God calls us to, he will equip us to do it.  It is the Lord's to command, and ours to obey.  Let us not say with Moses, "Here I am, send someone else."  Let us say with Isaiah, "Here I am, send me."

Are You Searching for a Sign?

"He said, 'But I will be with you, and this shall be the sign for you , that I have sent you:  when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain'" (Ex. 3:12, ESV).

It seems to me that the sign given to Moses is the sign of completing the task.  He would only know for certain that the Lord had really called him to the task when the task was complete.  He could not know apart from the doing.

Faith is never saving faith apart from being obedient.  To put it another way, faith without works is dead.  Thus, we demonstrate our trust in the Lord by obeying his commands.  The Christian life is one of obedient faith where on knows as one does.

Let's examine Moses' situation in this passage.  He gone to investigate what appeared to be a bush that was on fire, but not being destroyed.  As he approaches this anomalous sight, he hears the voice of the angel of the Lord commanding him to remove his sandals.  As the Lord speaks to him through the burning bush, Moses becomes acutely aware that he is hearing a message from God.  Why doesn't God say to Moses, "This burning-yet-not-consumed bush is a sign unto you that I have called you to bear my message."?

The reason the Lord doesn't have to Moses that the bush is a sign is because Moses gets it.  What Moses can't make out is how he will be know if he is man enough for the task.  Therefore, God confirms to Moses that the sign he seeks will only be found when his journey is complete.  If Moses really wants to know if he can succeed, he has to get to work.

Likewise, many of us want a sign to know if we can handle what we think God is calling us to do.  However, we will never know what we are capable of until we do something.  Waiting for a sign might be a humble thing to do when we are uncertain as to what the Lord would have us to do.  It may also be a sign of a wicked lack of faith (see Matt. 16:4).

Uncertainty is not the lack of faith.  One might be confused as to what he should be doing for the Lord, and yet be obediently trusting the Lord.  Case in point, a person is asked to teach a Sunday school class.  The feel reluctant to teach, because they don't think they are worthy of such a task.  Although they are uncertain as to the outcome, they seek the Lord's enabling and guidance.  This uncertainty is not caused by lack of faith, but a lack of clarity of one's role.

We will not know what tasks we are up to (through God's enabling) until we actually attempt to do them in his strength.  Nor will God excuse us.  When he calls us to a task, the sign of our success is only seen after we succeed.  Just as the Lord told Moses, "Here is how you will know you can do this: one day you'll be here worshiping me," he tells us the same.

If you feel called to a task, you should know that tackling that task is the only way you will know that you are called to it.  It is only by persevering through the grinding pressures of every day service that we get a sense of our calling.  When you endure hardship, and know that it was not your strength that one the day, but the strength of the Lord working in and through you, only then do you know that you are living your call.  That isn't to say that everyone's call is equally successful (by human standards).  Remember many of the prophets (though successful in God's eyes because of their obedient faith), never experienced seeing their audiences come to repentance.

When you served the Lord with all you have, do you worship him for his kindness?  There is a sign in that.  The sign says he called you and equipped you for the task.  It also says he forgave you for your failings along the way.  But, most importantly, it says his grace is sufficient.  If you really want to know if God can use you, get to work.

Things Never Change, Until They Do

Have you ever had the feeling nothing is going to happen, and then something happens.  Let me speak with a bit more clarity.  Let's say that you are looking for a job.  It feels like you have put in 1,000 application and no one is calling.  Then one day, the phone rings and you have a job interview.

Prayer often feels that way.  It feels like nothing is going to happen.  We pray and we pray, and it appears that nothing is going on.  We watch, but no changes appear to be coming.  Then one day, there is a knock at the door and something happens.

Persistence in prayer is a difficult thing, because we are by nature finite creatures.  We cannot see the end of all things.  We can't seem to be figure out how it is all supposed to work out.  We want things done in our time, in our way.

When we persist in prayer, especially in light of seemingly never changing situation, it is a demonstration of faith in the faithfulness of God.  The person who repeatedly turns to the Father in prayer is expressing his unwavering belief that his prayer will be heard and answered.  

However, when we abandon prayer it reflects a frustration with situation that stems from a lack of faith.  We stop praying because we feel our prayers to be of no use, or that they are falling on deaf ears.  Thus, when we cease to pray we are calling the God's faithfulness into question.

The next time you feel that nothing is going to happen, remind yourself of the last you felt that way, and of how something unexpected did happen.  Remind yourself of the faithfulness of God, and commit yourself to tenaciously clinging to Him by faith. Persist in faith, persist in prayer.

Sermon Recap 1-24-10

Morning:  The sermon entitled, "Rules to Live by," explored Ephesians 4:25-32.  In this passage, the apostle Paul explains what a life of true holiness and righteousness looks like.  He compels his audience to do away with falsehood, anger, corrupt speech, and all bitterness.  He also encouraged them to speak truthfully, settle disputes quickly, work hard to enable generosity, speak encouraging words to build up others, be kind, compassionate, and forgiving.

Evening:  We looked at the doctrine of Holy Spirit.  The Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, one in essence, substance, and being.  He exalts Christ.  He also convicts of sin, righteousness and judgment. 

I'd Hate to Burst Your Bubble, Or Maybe I Wouldn't

I enjoy watching Sophia play with bubbles.  For those moments, the world drifts away, and all that exists is laughter and whimsy encased in a sphere.  I have often wondered why God created the bubble.  It appears to serve no purpose other than to create delight.  I know that there are a few people in this world that fear bubbles (although I couldn't find a clinical name for the fear of bubbles), but almost everyone else seems to smile when bubbles are present.

Bubbles are nearly impossible to catch.  Most attempts to capture a bubble end in it bursting.  It is a sad phenomena that can only be erased from memory by the creation of new bubbles.  Thus, the bubble has a symbol of a dream or dreamlike state that allows for momentary displacement of reality.  I suppose that is why the phrase, "I hate to burst your bubble," entered our language.  The speaker is stating that the dreamlike reality in which the listener is living in will come to a close as soon as the sharp point of reality is driven home.

When I watch a bubble floating in the the air, I find myself wondering what would a bubble feel if a bubble had feelings?  Would it find its satisfaction through existing or by accomplishing its purpose?  Granted, it couldn't accomplish its purpose apart from existence, but which would bring the bubble greatest joy: being a bubbling or bring delight?  What if a bubble, upon coming into contact with a frolicking, laughing child, burst with shear delight?  What if, having achieved its purpose, that is bring delight, its joy became so overwhelming that its thin spherical skin could no longer contain it?

By now, you tuned me out as a loon.  I know it is impossible, this side of heaven, to prove the purpose of bubbles.  I know that non-living things don't "feel," and therefore can't experience joy.  Yet, the thought of a bubble bursting, because its joy was uncontainable, makes me think of greater things.  Things that, although they rarely happen, should happen frequently.  What if we creatures, were less concerned about our existence, and more concerned about living out our purpose?

What if it were possible to live in such a way that our joy became uncontainable, and who we are right now ceased to exist, because we were transformed into someone new?  Does that sound far fetched to you?  It shouldn't.  The general thrust, or overarching story, of Scripture leads to the conclusion that mankind was created to know and love God.  Thus, the greatest purpose in human life is to glorify God and to enjoy him.  Humanity can only find genuine fulfillment by making God the center of their life, and pursing him.  To pursue anything other than God, is to pursue an existence that can never accomplish its true purpose.

Life in the kingdom of God, is gained not by pursuit of one's life, but by the yielding of one's life.  To paraphrase Jesus, "If you seek to save your life, you forfeit it.  But, if you give me your life, you will find it."  For some reason, this statement makes me think of bursting bubbles.  The bubble does not exist for its self.  It was created with some other purpose, and only in fulfilling that purpose can it have any meaning.  Like a bubble, we are created for a purpose, and only in fulfilling that purpose can we have any meaning.

The Silence of God

There are times in the lives of believers when it feels as if God has gone silent.  These times have been called many things including: God desertions, dark nights of the soul, and withdrawings.  When these events occur they can be very painful, and often lead believers on an earnest search for God's presence.  Here is a song that captures the essence of the experience.  It is entitled, "The Silence of God," and is performed by Andrew Peterson.  Here it is:




If you feel as if you are going through such a time, I want to encourage you to remember the God is there. He is faithful and true. Search for him in prayer, meditate deeply on his Word, and refuse to let go until he blesses you. If you will do this, you will find the dawn breaking through the dark night.

God Is in Control

"No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can avail against the Lord" (Prov. 21:30, ESV).

I find great comfort in the knowledge that God's plans cannot be stopped.  The greatest collaboration of human mind and might doesn't scare God in the least.  He is in complete control, even when it doesn't appear that is the case.

In the wake of devastation, like in Haiti, it is important to remind ourselves that God is in control.  Many pose the question, "Why?," as if we can fully comprehend the mind of God.  Were he to explain the reasons behind his purposes,  we would lack the ability to understand.  It is hubris to demand an answer from Almighty God.

His wisdom is above our wisdom, because his wisdom is perfect.  He does not derive wisdom from another source, because he alone is the source of wisdom.  He has never been taught anything, because he knows all things from beginning to end.  God has no one to counsel him, because he alone has always existed for all eternity.

We are imperfect by nature.  We are broken by the fall, and ruined by our sin.  Only through Christ are we restored, and that restoration is a process.  It is often a very slow process.  So it is good to remind ourselves as we endure the process of restoration, that God is in control, and his will cannot be overturned.

When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder

1. I love the hymn, "When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder," especially when it is sung with an upbeat tempo.  It makes me yearn to hear that trumpet sound.  It makes grateful that my name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life.  As the last verse reminds us, "Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun. Let us talk of all his wondrous love and care."  I couldn't find a version on Youtube that captured the folksy, Bluegrass sound I wanted, so I went with Loretta Lynn's version in honor of my Mom:
   
2. 
   

Here are the words: 

1. When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more,
   And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;
   When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore,
   And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Refrain: 

2. When the roll is called up yonder,
   When the roll is called up yonder,
   When the roll is called up yonder,
   When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.
3. On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise,
   And the glory of His resurrection share;
   When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies,
   And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.
4. Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun,
   Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care;
   Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done,
   And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

For the Love of Hymns

I love music, especially well written, theologically rich hymns.  One of the strengths of great hymns is their ability to connect across time and culture.  There are times that I seek to imagine what it would have been like to hear certain hymns in their original context. 

 A good hymnal is a tremendous devotional aid.  I encourage you to buy one, and begin thumbing through it. As you do, mark the ones you know and start meditating through them.  Develop a habit of meditating through the hymns.  You might want to start reading through the hymns you don't know in the hymn book.  The lack of familiarity may help you to see things you might have normally missed.


Hymns that have been preserved and used widely typically reflect a common commitment.  They reflect a shared confession of faith.  They remind us that our spiritual ancestors of yesteryear worshiped the same Jesus we worship.  As we sing these timeless hymns, we are confessing that God continues to demonstrate his faithfulness.


I'm sure there are many reasons that hymns fell out of favor in many churches, but it is sad that they did.  Some people wanted to dismiss with hymns, because they saw them as outdated.  It is a mistake to equate old with outdated.  The lust for novelty left a generation grasping for something more simple, sleek, and energetic.


Another reason hymns became less popular is because they were usually poorly done.  I do not mean that they were poorly written.  I have been to church services in which the music seemed more suited for a funeral.  I have also known song leaders who wanted every hymn sung as if each note were hung in molasses in the dead of winter.  The old songs, sung long and slow, left many people bored.


Hymns need not be outdated or boring.  Our familiarity with them should not breed in us contempt.  Instead, we should strive to perform these timeless pieces with excellence and energy.  When we sing them we are singing with a cloud of witnesses who have gone on before, and who have paved our way with their prayers and obedience.  


The next time your at church, and they begin to sing a familiar hymn think about those who have gone on before.  Think about their courage, their love, their devotion, their obedience.  Think about the Christ of which they sang, and his love and faithfulness, and then think about how Christ is still on the throne, how he is still demonstrating his love and faithfulness to people like you, through people like you.   Then allow your voice to raise in worship to your King, for his glory and your joy.

The Value of a Dream

Have you ever had a dream?  I don't mean the kind of dream that one has at night while asleep or in the day when one wishes his life were different.  I mean the kind of dream that set the course of your life, colored your ambition, and fueled the flames of your desire.

A dream can enable you to endure hardships, heartaches, and headaches.  It can make opposition appear to be opportunity.  A dream can project you forward, adding adventure and vibrancy to your life.

I'm not one that believes that every dream is achievable.  Some dreams are destined for failure. I'm never going to walk on the moon (or moonwalk for that matter).  There are several reasons for the death of my moon walking dream.  Some where in my control, like I could have studied harder, got in shape, joined the military, and applied to work for NASA, but others were out of my control, like NASA stop sending people to the moon.

But many dreams are achievable.  They take hard work and determination and providence.  Many people get to experience their dreams coming true, even when they don't reference God.  God's people, however, realize that their dreams come true, because God had purposed them to come true.  We are in a sense dreaming God's dreams after him.  Or to put it another way, God fills our minds with dreams that he then enables us to fulfill to his glory.

A few things to keep in mind when thinking about a dream.  First, ask yourself if it is for the Lord's glory or your own.  Find a different dream if it turns out to be for your own glory.  Next, be adaptable.  If your dream is so narrowly focused, that it can only be fulfilled through statistically improbable means, don't hold your breath.  Let's say I have two cents in my pocket, but I want a lot more.  I may wish I had a million dollars by February 1st, 2010, but, most likely, under normal circumstance it isn't going to happen.  Finally, realize the old expression, "It is better to have loved and lost, than to never have loved at all," can be applied to a dream.  It is better to pursue a dream and never achieve it, than to let fear of failure keep you from chasing your dream.

But what should we do when we see a dream coming true?

1. Give thanks to God for his merciful favor both in the dream and the realization of it.
2. Rejoice in the experience to the glory of God.
3. Remain watchful.  Be ever vigilant. To whom much is given, much is required.
4. Pray for the strength and wisdom to see the dream fulfilled and remain humble throughout the process.
5. Keep dreaming.  We were created to build on our successes.

Sermon Recap 1-17-10

Morning: The message, "A Change in Mindset," drew from Ephesians 4:17-24.  In this passage, Paul begins explaining to the church how they live a life worthy of the calling they have received.  He tells them that have to stop thinking of themselves as what they were.  They are no longer Gentiles cut of from God and hardened by sin.  They have to become renewed in the attitude of their mind.  In this process they remove the old self, with its corruption, and put on the new self which is being renewed in the image of God.

Evening: We looked at the doctrine of the God the Son.  We focused on John 1:1-3, 14-18; Phil. 2:5-11; Col. 1:15-19, 2:9-10; Heb. 1:1-3.

Word Search Ends in Good Discovery

"Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord" (Prov. 16:20, ESV).

How much time would you say that you spend in the Word of God each day?  Would you say 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 1 hour, or maybe more?  How many hours are there in a day? 24.   That means there are 1,440 minutes in a day.  If we tithed our time in the same way we do our money, that would mean dedicating 144 minutes, or 2 hours and 24 minutes, of every day to the Lord.  It has been suggested that it takes a little more that 70 hours to read the entire Bible out loud.  Let's say it took 72 hours (4,320 minutes) to read the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation.  Reading the Bible for 144 minutes every day means we would be able to read the Bible 12 times in a year.  That breaks down to once a month.  Of course, if we tithed our time, we might not spend all of it every day reading the Scripture.  We must also remember prayer, mediation, evangelism, and other things should do to serve the Lord.  I'm not suggesting that we spend all day reading the Scripture, because God has given us other responsibilities.  My point is that we need to spend some time in Scripture each day.

Solomon's conclusion is that good comes from giving thought to the word.  It is possible that he his is speaking in the sense of listening to both sides of a story.  He may be say that we need to listen to everything before we draw a conclusion.  Then, and only then, will we be able to make the right (wise) decision.  More probably, Solomon is referring to the Word of God.  This proverb links considering the word with trusting the Lord.  In this verse, both are the sure source of positive outcome.  Simply put, good comes from giving thought to the word, and blessing comes from trust God.

This passage compels us to give thought to the Word of God, because it brings us into the realm of his blessing.  This line of thought resonates with other passages of Scripture.  Psalm 1 states that the blessed man is one who rejects sinful life, because of his commitment to God and his Word.  The person who lives in obedience to the Word will be fruitful and prosperous in all he does.  Solomon's conclusion is consistent with the rest of Scripture.  Therefore, we should listen to his wisdom.  If we discover good by giving thought to the Word, then we should give the best of our mental energies to contemplating it.

We shouldn't, however, merely contemplate on the Word.  It isn't enough to think about it.  Good is only discovered in contemplation that comes from faith.  In other words, it is only when we search the Scriptures with a believing heart that they yield their vast treasures to us.  When we fail to spend time in the Word every day we rob ourselves.  We miss an opportunity to spend time with our precious Savior, who died in our place, so that we might become the righteousness of God.  We miss out on how to discern his voice of the sea of voices that seek to lead us astray.  We lose the opportunity to trained for righteous service.  We remain ineffective and unfruitful.  When we neglect the Bible, we condemn ourselves to a life of chasing shadows and signs; of always yearning to hear the voice of God, but never hearing it; of hoping for blessing, but never receiving it in its fullness. 

However, if we, in faith, give the Word serious thought, we will discover good.  We will learn that God still speaks, that he loves us, that the mess we call life has a purpose beyond anything we can fully comprehend, that he is always in control, and that he is always, always holy and righteous.  We discover good in the Word, because we first discover God there.

Man Up!

Here is part of a message from Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Village Church, concerning biblical masculinity.  There should be additional links for the rest of the sermon at the end of the video.  I found it to be humorous, insightful, and convicting in all the right places.

Please pray for Pastor Chandler.  He is undergoing radiation to treat cancer.  Also, pray for his family and the church he leads.

How to Avoid a Deadly Snare.

"The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death" (Prov. 14:27, ESV).

My mind continues to return to the the fear of the Lord.  Maybe I should say the Spirit continues to stir my heart toward fear of the Lord.  The work of the Spirit in convicting of sin, judgment, and righteousness generates within the heart the fear of the Lord.  Although, we shouldn't understand it in terms of being afraid of the Lord.  The fear of the Lord is a response to the holiness of God that generates a hatred of evil, and a strong desire to obey the Lord.

The fear of the Lord is a source of life, because it keeps us from sinning against the Lord.  The wages of sin is death. Thus, pursuing sin is pursuing death.  Rebellion against God is characterized by its lack of fear.  The rebellious spirit cries with Pharaoh, "Who is the Lord that I should obey him?"  The danger that accompanies a rebellious heart is that God may just let our heart stay in its rebellion.  It is dangerous to walk in rebellion of heart, because we might lose the possibility of repentance.  When we fear the Lord repentance becomes the natural course of action.  We are aware that we have sinned against his holy nature, and know that it is by grace that we are saved.  Fear of the Lord encourages us to walk in obedience.

The Unquestionable Faithfulness of God

"When you can't see God's hand, trust his heart."

I saw a story about an adoptive family that was about to travel to Haiti this week to pick up their daughter only to discover that she died yesterday in the earthquake.  My heart goes out to this family.  Although I do not know the particulars of their situation, I imagine their sense of loss must be great.  Most parents allow themselves to ponder the futures of their children.  They wonder about things like broken bones, school, relationships, careers, and the like.  When coupled with the anticipation of the arrival date, this pondering produces an anxious joy.

However, the anxious joy fades to sorrow when dreams are laid to rest along side of a child.  Unless we are anchored in the Lord, sorrow can become a miry bog of despondency which saps the very life from us.  It is like that scene in The NeverEnding Story  where Atreyu loses his horse Artax in the Swamp of Sadness.  Overcome by despair, the horse refuses to move and sinks into the swamp. The key to overcoming despair is to prayerfully fighting against it.

It is easy to look at the devastation in Haiti and the loss of this young girl, and say, "Where was God in all of this?"  But the question demonstrates our inability to comprehend the ways of God.  Who are we to question God?  Even if he felt compelled to explain his actions to us, what makes us think we could comprehend them?  No, it is better to return to what we know.  We know God is righteous, holy, just, sovereign, love, all knowing, all powerful, and all wise.  He know that he has a purpose for all he decrees and all he permits.  We know that all his decisions are right and true; they are exactly what they should be.

Now is not the time to question our only Source of hope.  Now is the time to confess the limits of our strength,  our knowledge, and our faith.  Now is the time to cry out for mercy--mercy for us, mercy for this family, and mercy for Haiti.  Now is the time to put faith into action.  If you are interested in giving to help Haiti there are many reputable outlets through which you can give.  The International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention recommends going through Baptist Global Response.  One hundred percent (100%) of money given through Baptist Global Response goes to combat hunger.  We need to continue to prayer for this family that lost their daughter, and for the thousands of Haitians who have lost family as well.

God's faithfulness cannot be taxed.  It is not measured by a lack of suffering, a lack of pleasant weather, or a lack of difficulty.  God's faithfulness is measured by the depth of suffering Jesus endured upon the cross.  It is measured in the power the Father exerted when he raised Jesus from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenlies.  It is measured by the work of the Spirit as he brings new birth in the hearts of God's people.  Let us, in full confidence of God's faithfulness, rise up in the face of such tragedy and proclaim the glory of God to the nations.

Never Too Late to Start A Scripture Reading Plan

After a couple of years trying different approaches, I have decided to work through the whole Bible again this year.  I have The One Year Bible in the English Standard Version translation.  This wonderful resource has 365 daily readings, divided up into four categories: Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs. In addition to this useful tool, I am continuing to read through a chapter of Proverbs each day.  This approach has allowed me to read through book of Proverbs 24 times in the last two years.  Last year, I also read through the Prophets (Isaiah through Malachi) and the New Testament.  Scripture intake is an important aspect of the Christian life.

It isn't too late to get started with a Bible in a year reading plan.  There are many excellent resources available to assist you, you can also check here.  Also, reading through the entire Bible in a year doesn't take as long as you would think.  The average reader, reading 12 to 15 minutes a day can easily complete the Bible from Genesis to Revelation in one year.  Can you find 12 minutes each day?  What if you absolutely hate to read?  Most translations are available in an audio format (CD or MP3).  If a person were to listen to an audio Bible roughly 15 minutes a day, they would finish the Bible in less than a year.  If you follow along (in the same translation of course) while listening to an audio Bible, you get the benefits of increased fluency in reading, increased focus, and the combined benefits of seeing and hearing the text at the same time which increases retention.  There is also the added benefit of learning how to pronounce those difficult Bible names.

One other thing to keep in mind: this is no ordinary book.  The Bible is the Word of God.  It is the revelation of the Creator to his creation, the revelation of the Redeemer to his redeemed.  The Bible is living and active. It is perfect treasure that can convert the soul.  It is a light and a lamp.  The Word of God can set the captives free.  Surely, something so powerful, so beautiful, so marvelous, and so holy deserves our attention. It is the food which nourishes our soul.  Just as Peter heard a mournful Jesus say, "Could you not watch with me one hour?" (Matt. 26:40), I fear we may hear him say to us, "Was I not worth 15 minutes a day?"  This year tarry long in the Word of God.  You'll never regret it.

Safety in Wise Counsel

"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety" (Prov. 11:14, ESV).

The wise surround themselves with other wise people.  They find individuals who demonstrate wisdom, and then they continually ask them for perspective.  Wisdom can be defined as the ability to live life in manner pleasing to God.  It is the art of walking in faithful obedience.  This verse reminds us that failure to obtain guidance results in hardship.

It is not merely enough to surround ourselves with wise people.  Proximity to the wise does not guarantee that their wisdom will rub off on us.  In fact, just being close to the wise does nothing to bring up our wisdom quotient.  We need to get inside their heads, and try to see the world the way the see it.  We need to imitate their lives.  Remember, if they are truly wise, they are living in a way that pleases God.

Solomon is not suggesting that we anchor ourselves to one sage, and drown out all other voice.  No, there is more safety in numbers.  Multiple counselors offer us the greatest opportunity to widen our perspective, to gather fresh insight, and to find multiple avenues of exploration.  Even when our counselors offer differing opinions, we are served by the knowledge that at least two possibilities exist.  As we grow in wisdom, differing opinions can sharpen our thinking.

So I encourage you to find godly counselors who exhibit Spirit-filled wisdom.  Look for men and women who walk in obedience to the Lord and who are satisfied in him.  When you find them begin observing their lives.  What are they reading?  How do they spend their free time?  How do they interact with others? Notice the role Scripture plays in their lives.  Ask them probing questions.  Bounce your ideas off of them and get their perspective.  Look for multiple counselors, but remember that although you may take advice from many, not all will be equally close to you.  It is good to remember one more thing: if the wise give you sound advice, its foolish to ignore it.

Sermon Recap 1-10-10

Morning: The sermon, "The Purpose of the Gifting," explored Ephesians 4:7-16.  In this passage, Paul explored the gifted nature of the church with a primary focus on apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastor/teachers.  The purpose of the gifting is to equip God's people for works of service so that the church will grow into the fullness of Christ.  We learn to serve, we serve to grow.  The church grows as we anchor ourselves in God's truth, speak that truth to each other in love, and do what God has called us to do.

Evening:  We looked at the doctrine of God the Father.  We looked at Matthew 6:25-34 to explore the implications of providence.

I Yearn for More

We didn't have to pass through security checkpoints today.  There were no mad dashes through airports.  We weren't afraid we would miss our flight, and have to find another one, because Homeland Security was backed up.  And I didn't get have refried black beans and fried bananas with my breakfast this morning.  No, January 9th, 2010 wasn't much like January 9th, 2009.

Today, we moved at an easier pace.  We enjoyed each others company.  We played a little.  We watched a little t.v.  We even went out and played in the snow for a while today.  Things that we anticipated and longed for have now faded into routine.  Time has whirled passed us, and a year is gone.  Sophia is home, and at home.

She has taken ownership of her surroundings, and of us.  Everything is hers.  When she sees our house, she blurts out, "My house!"  The car, the t.v., the cat, all belong to her.  She has filled up our space with such vibrancy and excitement.  She is an explosion of life and joy.  At times it seems that only mere moments have passed, and then at other moments it feels as if thousands of years bloom out of each second.

The toddler that I had to stoop when assisting her walk, now runs around unaided.  The days of quite contemplation and one word phrases have been replaced with, "Come on, Daddy. Chase you me!"  There is no more bilingual begging to discern what she wants or needs.  She just tells us now.  She says things like, "Stallberwy Millk," and "Play wit me."  So much has changed in the last year.

I have changed in the last year.  Each day I learn a bit more about my capacities toward selfishness and toward love.  I doubt that I would have been able to see the depth of my own selfishness apart from having children.  Children truly need in a way that adults do not.  To rise to the occasion, and meet that need a parent must examine their priorities.  Once selfishness is exposed, there is only two routes one can take.  One can either combat selfishness, and put the needs of others first.  Or they could embrace the selfishness.

A person who rejects selfishness, grows in love.  Some days I feel like the post-Christmas Grinch with my heart growing by three sizes. Other days it feels like my heart shrinks by six sizes.  But the presence of children has to potential to stretch people.  It has the ability to make them stronger, better, more loving, and more caring.  It can also make them snap, especially when they aren't pliable enough.  It can make them weaker, bitter, more hateful, and more selfish.  Children aren't a cure-all.  They are a catalyst.  Children are agents of change, constant and perpetual change.  They force parents to react or respond, adapt or decline.

So it is no wonder that Sophia's presence has brought about change.  The question is, "Will I rise to the challenge?"  Will I respond to her presence, and be transformed into a better person?  O Lord, I hope so.  I find myself checking my motives more and more.  I question the impact my actions and attitudes will have on her heart.  I desire to be the man God would have me to be.  Since he has blessed me with Sophia, I can only assume that fatherhood is part of his plan for shaping me.  So as I seek to shape Sophia's heart, the Lord is shaping mine.  Although we are home, I know our journey hasn't come to its end, because life is a journey, not a destination.  I hope the year (and years) ahead permits me the opportunity to grow with my daughter.  I hope more children will not be far off.  Having drank deeply of the Lord's grace, I yearn for more.

Why Is He Mindful of Us?

"When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you can for him?" (Ps. 8:3-4, ESV).

I find my mind returns to this question, "What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you can for him?"  With all that surrounds us in this world that expresses the majesty and glory of God, it is difficult to understand why he is mindful of us.  Why does the Creator love us?  We cannot say why, but we do know that  he does love us.  From the snow to the smile of my daughter, the kindness of God is evident everywhere.  His love boggles the mind.

The Earth Is the Lord's

"The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein, for he has founded upon the seas and established it upon the rivers" (Ps. 24:1-2, ESV).

It's important to remember that the earth belongs to the Lord.  He alone is the sovereign Creator.  We owe him our allegiance because he made us and the world we live in.  It is in him that we live, and move and have our being.  Are we giving him the proper worship? Do we acknowledge his sovereignty over us by faithful obedience? Or do we deny his ownership?

Growing in Discipline

"He dies for lack of discipline, and because of his great folly he is led astray" (Prov. 5:23, ESV).

I am wondering if I should make discipline the theme of 2010.  As I think about this verse, it offers me definite warning.  Lack of discipline not only leads to shattered dreams it leads to destruction.  Lack of discipline in the financial realm leads to debt and poor stewardship of the gifts God has given. Poor financial stewardship leads to the inability to support missions and ministry.  Lack of discipline in the physical realm  often leads to laziness, obesity, and poor health.  Laziness and poor health also diminish the reach and effectiveness of our ministry.

If we lack discipline in any or every area of our life, we limit what we can achieve for the Lord.  I know that the Lord is sovereign, and can work in spite of our weakness.  However, that does not mean we can presume that he will bless our disobedience.  In fact, the Scriptures warn us that he will not bless our mess.

As I reflect further on this verse, I know that discipline is a desperate need in my life.  I realize that I have struggled with a slacker attitude for years.  I also realize that slackness in ministry spells death for many.  There is too much good that needs to be accomplished to waste our days with idleness and undisciplined behavior.

People are lead astray by desires that are left unchecked.  Lack of discipline allows these passions to spread.  As they grow, they consume.  For this reason, we are warned to make no provision for the flesh.  My must come to terms with the reality that we do not possess ourselves, but we belong to the Lord for he has purchased us with the great and precious price of his blood.  It is his command that should drive our decisions.  It is his Word that must direct our path.  Thus, we must discipline ourselves to submit to it or we can be sure the Lord will discipline us when we don't.  Why should God's children pursue folly?  They shouldn't.  Once we were sheep gone astray, each turning to his own way, but through Christ, the Great Shepherd of our souls, we have been brought back into the fold.  

I know I must now embark on a quest to find discipline, and in the process find holiness.  It is a pursuit that really began the day I trusted Christ, but now must find a fuller, clearer expression in my life.  As students of Jesus, we find life and liberty as we conform ourselves to his will.  Submission is the key to freedom.  I pray by the grace of God that the Spirit will bring about an abundant harvest of the fruit of self-control in my life this year, that I might better serve and glorify my King.

Snot for the Weak of Stomach

Tending to a sick child can be extremely demanding.  There is the emotional stress of watch your little one suffer through fever, chills, and vomiting among other things.  There is also the side effects the sickness has on the child's temperament which in turn can cause adverse side effects in the worried and worn caregiver.  There is also the accompanying sleep deprivation that often occurs with illness.  Yet, the process of taking care of Sophia, who has had  a fever and a cough since early this morning, has me wondering.

Part of me is wondering if there is an analogy that can be drawn between a parent's struggle with a sick child, and God's providential care for his children.  I know that God doesn't worry, because he knows all things.  I also  know that God doesn't get wore out, nor are his responses determined by the disposition of his children.  But at some level I can't help but feel that some aspect of care giving is a reflection of God's care for his children.  I know God loves us and cares for us.  I know we love our children and care for them.  But does the comparison stop there?  Is the connection deeper?

This experience and previous ones like it have me thinking that difficult circumstances have a greater potential for growth in love and Christlikeness than less difficult circumstances.  It is easy enough to care for someone when everything is going well and the two of you are getting along like peaches and creme.  However, when the rules change and a battle of wills begin, it takes greater effort to provide the appropriate care.

Once the decision to love is made, difficult circumstances cause a stretching effect.  The commitment forces one to pursue every appropriate option in order to demonstrate their love to the other person.  As a person cares for another who is dependent upon them, they are forced to make a choice.  They will either refuse to render the care necessary, they will render the necessary care without any attachment, or they will render the necessary care with the appropriate attachment.  The last choice is the best choice, because it is the choice that Christ made.  But when we choose to follow him in making that choice, we are stretched beyond ourselves, and learn to love in a deeper more meaningful way.

Sickness if never welcomed, especially when it attacks one of our loved ones, but the lessons that sickness can teach us should be welcomed.  We should realize that Christ has placed us in his school to teach us to love like him.  He wants us to have compassion on the weak and needy.  He wants us to love like him.  May be we will learn those lessons without difficulty, but I doubt we'd learn them as quickly or with a more lasting impression.  Hardship leaves a mark.  If we go through it with Christ, in his power and for his glory, the mark will have positive, long lasting implications.

Sermon Recap 1-03-10

Morning: The sermon, "A Life Worthy," explored Ephesians 4:1-6.  In this passage, Paul begins to explore the proper response to the blessings bestowed upon us in Christ Jesus.  Paul calls his readers to live a life worthy of the calling to which they were called.  The calling to which we are called is to glorify Christ.

The way we live a life worthy of that calling is to be humble, gentle, patient, and to bear with others in love.  Humility is the ability to see ourselves for who we are, to see our weaknesses, to realize our dependence upon grace, and to see our need of others.  Gentleness is the characteristic of restrained strength.  It is the ability to be angry at the right times, for the right reasons, and not blow your top.  Patience is the ability to bear up under difficult circumstances without breaking down.  We need to bear with one another, to help each other with our problems, and care for those in need. We should do all of this out of love.

We strive for unity in the the church because are indwelt by one Spirit.  There is one body and one Spirit, because we are united by one hope.  Our one hope is the one Lord, Jesus Christ, who unites us in one faith to the glory of the one God and Father.  As we pursue the glory of God, we live a life worthy of the calling to which we have been called.

Evening: Business meeting.

Lessons from Spilled Milk

It has been said, "There is no use crying over spilled milk."  The general thrust of this proverb is that life is too short to live with regret.  The message is meant to prompt us to make quick work of the clean up, and to quickly return to our task.  Almost every day there is "spilled milk" in our lives.  Whether it is something spoken that should not have been or something left undone, it is difficult to make it through a day without some sort of mistake.

Actually, it is humanly impossible to make it through a day without committing some error.  We sin daily.  There are sins we commit in willful rebellion, and sins we commit in ignorance.  We sin when we do what we should not do (sins of commission), and we sin when we don't do what we should do (sins of omission).  Paul states it succinctly, "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23).  We also make many mistakes that are not sin.  While it may be a sin to hit someone over the head with a frying pan, it is not a sin to drop a frying pan in the floor (unless you have just hit someone over the head with it, then it might be a sin).

We often assume that if we could remove the sin element from our lives, we would also remove the mistakes along with them.  However, removing sin would not necessarily remove mistakes (of a non-sinful nature).  Furthermore, it isn't helpful to image a world without sin, because that is not the world we live in and it will not be the world we live in until Christ's return.  Sin is an ever-present reality with which we must contend.

The temptation is to remove the human element, or at least to remove ourselves from as much human contact as possible.  For this reason, some in the early church went out into the desert and lived as hermits.  Others have entered monasteries or convents in the pursuit of holiness.  These pursuits end with a fractured holiness, because they can never produce wholeness.  We were created to be social creatures, who grow best as we interact with each other.

The spilled milk of life gives us the opportunity to be tried and tested.  It shows us what we are made of and where we still need to grow.  Sometimes the milk is spilled by others, but we still have to clean it up.  Other times, we spill the milk, but we spill so much we need help to clean it up.  If we approach each spill as an opportunity to grow, to learn, to become holier, and more like Christ, then we find spilled milk is really something that we should sing over.