This song by Jonny Diaz, "More Beautiful You," has a positive message for young woman. The core message is that Christ has an abiding love.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Sermon Recap 7-29-12
Morning: The sermon, "God if for You," focused on Psalm 56. David reminds us that God is with us. He gives us 3 truths to think about.
1. When all of life is crashing in around you, catch your breath and remember who's holding you.
2. Your enemies won't escape justice from a God who keeps your tears.
3. Live out your gratitude.
Evening: Services were cancelled.
1. When all of life is crashing in around you, catch your breath and remember who's holding you.
2. Your enemies won't escape justice from a God who keeps your tears.
3. Live out your gratitude.
Evening: Services were cancelled.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Deadlines and Commitments
"Deadlines, commitments, what to leave in, what to leave out." There is a song in there somewhere. We all face deadlines of sorts. We all have commitments. What we say we'll do, limits what we can do. For every opportunity we take, there are others we miss.
The danger isn't in missing an opportunity. The danger is missing the wrong opportunity. It requires focus and vision to know what opportunities are worth passing by. There are many people who chase after a dream only to find that it didn't bring them the happiness they hoped it would, and in the end it caused them to miss the best things in their lives. Cat Stevens sang "The Cat's in the Cradle." John Anderson sang, "I Wish I Could have been There."
Who knows how many other people were busy chasing a deadline, only to find out that they missed out on so many other things. A great work ethic is a wonderful thing, and rare these days. Having a dream to chase is great, too. But if we aren't careful we may spend most of our lives in the pursuit of what we don't have, at the cost of what we do.
The danger isn't in missing an opportunity. The danger is missing the wrong opportunity. It requires focus and vision to know what opportunities are worth passing by. There are many people who chase after a dream only to find that it didn't bring them the happiness they hoped it would, and in the end it caused them to miss the best things in their lives. Cat Stevens sang "The Cat's in the Cradle." John Anderson sang, "I Wish I Could have been There."
Who knows how many other people were busy chasing a deadline, only to find out that they missed out on so many other things. A great work ethic is a wonderful thing, and rare these days. Having a dream to chase is great, too. But if we aren't careful we may spend most of our lives in the pursuit of what we don't have, at the cost of what we do.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Sunday Recap 7-22-12
Morning: The sermon, "Which Way Will You Go?" focused on Matthew 7:13-14. In this passage, Jesus commands us to enter the narrow gate. The context in Matthew and in other Scriptures, lead me to conclude Jesus is speaking of himself. As he said in John, "'Truly, Truly, I say to you, I he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs in another way, that man is a thief and a robber' . . . So Jesus said to them again, "Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep" (John 10:1,7). From here, Jesus presents us with two ways.
The Broad Way
We can call this way, "Whatever Way," because on this way whatever goes. gate is wide because it captures the full spectrum of human morality from legalism to lawlessness. The way is broad because it is so frequently traveled. Solomon warned, "There is a way that seems right to man, but its end is the way of death" (Prov. 14:12). This path is the path we are born on. We are sinners, turned away from God. It is the way that ends in judgment.
The Narrow Way
The narrow way is hard. It is hard because it requires to you take up your cross, follow Jesus, and die daily. It's hard because it may require you to give up your home, your family, your wealth, your health, or your very life. It's hard because so few find it. It's hard because it winds through temptations, testings, persecutions, and tribulations. It's hard because it isn't about following rules. It's hard because we are prone to wander.
So how do we obey Jesus?
The Broad Way
We can call this way, "Whatever Way," because on this way whatever goes. gate is wide because it captures the full spectrum of human morality from legalism to lawlessness. The way is broad because it is so frequently traveled. Solomon warned, "There is a way that seems right to man, but its end is the way of death" (Prov. 14:12). This path is the path we are born on. We are sinners, turned away from God. It is the way that ends in judgment.
The Narrow Way
The narrow way is hard. It is hard because it requires to you take up your cross, follow Jesus, and die daily. It's hard because it may require you to give up your home, your family, your wealth, your health, or your very life. It's hard because so few find it. It's hard because it winds through temptations, testings, persecutions, and tribulations. It's hard because it isn't about following rules. It's hard because we are prone to wander.
So how do we obey Jesus?
We need to understand the project correctly. Most of us
understand conversion as an act of renovation. There is some truth to that, but
the renovation of our soul is less like This Old House, and more like Extreme
Makeover: Home Edition. Tom, Norm, and the gang keep a lot of the old, and
blend it with the new. Ty and his crew bulldozed it down, and built something
new.
1. It starts with repentance. Repentance is a change of
mind. It means we change course.
2. Next we believe. We come to trust Jesus as our only source
of righteousness. As the old hymn says, "In my hand no price I bring, simply to Thy cross I cling."
3. Through faith, we devote ourselves to becoming a student
of Christ.
Evening: The lesson, "Sanctified by the Word," focused on using Scripture to grow in our sanctification. Jesus' statements in John 17:17, help us to understand that the Spirit primarily uses Scripture to accomplish sanctification in our life.
How do we grow?
1. Know yourself. What are your weaknesses?
2. Trust God. He has given you everything you need to grow in godliness.
3. Recognize you're at war. 1 Peter 5:8, 2 Cor. 2:11.
How do we apply this?
1. Pick one of your weaknesses. For example, we'll look at anger.
2. Change your mindset--You have to move from "I can't do this," to "Through Christ, I can do anything."
3. Renew your mind through the study of Scripture. Look up what God says about your problem. Read, pray, meditate, and memorize. Here are some Scriptures concerning anger: Eph. 4:26-17; Proverbs 14:16-17, 29; 22:24-25; 29:22.
4. Put into practice what you learn.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Names of God: El Elyon
El Elyon, the God Most High, is one of my favorite Old Testament names for God. When we speak of God as Most High, we speak of his nature as the Ultimate. He is above all things. In Daniel 4, Nebuchadnezzer states,
1. His kingdom is eternal. There is no start and stop. He will not be replaced upon his death, because he cannot die.
2. He does as the pleases. When Nebuchadnezzer says "all the inhabitants of earth are accounted as nothing," he doesn't mean that God does care about people. He means that God's will trumps all other wills.
3. He can't be stopped. No one can stay the hand of God. What we wills will come to pass.
4. He can't be questioned. God does not answer to humanity. We lack his wisdom and knowledge. We are the created and he is the Creator.
God is over all things. He is the Most High, and none can compare to him. Place your trust in El Elyon, and know you are secure in his mighty hands.
I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever, for his dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom endures from generation to generation; all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, "What have you done?" (Dan. 4:34-35, ESV).In these words, Nebuchadnezzer gives us a fourfold description of the God Most High.
1. His kingdom is eternal. There is no start and stop. He will not be replaced upon his death, because he cannot die.
2. He does as the pleases. When Nebuchadnezzer says "all the inhabitants of earth are accounted as nothing," he doesn't mean that God does care about people. He means that God's will trumps all other wills.
3. He can't be stopped. No one can stay the hand of God. What we wills will come to pass.
4. He can't be questioned. God does not answer to humanity. We lack his wisdom and knowledge. We are the created and he is the Creator.
God is over all things. He is the Most High, and none can compare to him. Place your trust in El Elyon, and know you are secure in his mighty hands.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Spiritual Songs: "The Names of God"
Here is a beautiful song the covers the Old Testament names for God. I hope it helps you to meditate on the greatness of our God.
Monday, July 16, 2012
How Should We Approach Alcohol?
This was part of my sermon recap from 7-15-12, but I thought it was worth repeating. Alcohol has long been a part of human history. Anti-alcohol attitudes have persisted in the rural, southern areas. However, our culture is slowly changing. It is important we think biblically concern the the use of alcohol. For that reason, I am posting this again.
A few weeks ago, I made a statement concerning drinking during a sermon. I said, "I'm not saying drinking is evil." The statement lacked clarity, and created some confusion as to what I believe concerning alcohol. First, I will explain why I said I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself. Then I'll explain how I think we should approach alcohol.
The reason I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself, is based on two premises draw from Scripture.
1. Jesus never sinned. Hebrews 4:15 and 1 Peter 2:22 both state this fact.
2. Jesus, most likely, drank alcohol. Jesus' first miracle was turning water into wine. The context suggests that it was wine and not grape juice (See John 2). Also in Matthew 11:18-19, Jesus implies that he drank wine or alcohol. He states, "For John did not come eating or drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon!' The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds" (Matt. 11:18-19). John didn't drink because he was forbidden by the Lord (see Luke 1:15). Jesus says he "came eating and drinking" in contrast to John which seems to imply Jesus drank alcohol. The accusation by the crowd was Jesus was a "drunkard." We can know for certain Jesus wasn't a drunkard, but if he never drank alcohol, why would they accuse him of such?
Drawing these two premises together, we can say since Jesus, who never sinned, likely consumed alcohol, we can conclude drinking alcohol, in and of itself, is not a sin. If our conclusion is true, then how do we approach alcohol?
1. Romans 14 has a lot to say about "disputable matters" or matters of conscience. Romans 14:21, places the consumption of alcohol in this category. In this passage, Paul gives us two guiding principles: serving God with a clear conscience and serving our neighbors in love.
2. Alcohol may be used as medicine. See 1 Timothy 5:23; and Prov. 31:6-7. Even our Church Covenant is worded so as not to exclude the use of alcohol as medicine. It states we are, "to abstain from the sale of, and use of, intoxicating drinks as a beverage."
3. Alcohol should be approached with caution, with the full awareness it can quickly master those who use it. See Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35.
4. Therefore, leaders should not consume alcohol. See Proverbs 31:4-5; 1 Tim. 3:3-8, Titus 1:7.
5. Those controlled by alcohol (drunkards) are condemned. Ephesians 5:18, helps us to understand drunkenness. By contrasting drunkenness with being filled by the Spirit, Paul paints a picture of total transformation. Being drunk with wine changes one's speech, their movement, and their attitudes. Being filled with the Spirit also changes one's speech, movement, and attitudes. Paul tells us that drunkards are among those who won't inherit the kingdom of heaven (1 Cor. 6:9-10). We are not even to associate with a professing believer who is a drunkard (1 Cor. 5:11).
6. Because the common understanding, within our culture, is that good Christians don't drink alcohol, it is best to abstain from drinking alcohol. Abstinence in these circumstances maintains the spirit of 1 Corinthians 8 and Romans 14.
7. On a personal note, I don't drink for several reasons. I learned a long time ago that I have an addictive personality, and I don't want to run the risk of being ruled by alcohol. I grew up in a home where drinking was frowned upon, and my conscience bares witness to that learning. I don't want set an example that leads others down a path that may destroy them. And I have covenanted with the Monticello to abstain from the sale of and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage.
A few weeks ago, I made a statement concerning drinking during a sermon. I said, "I'm not saying drinking is evil." The statement lacked clarity, and created some confusion as to what I believe concerning alcohol. First, I will explain why I said I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself. Then I'll explain how I think we should approach alcohol.
The reason I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself, is based on two premises draw from Scripture.
1. Jesus never sinned. Hebrews 4:15 and 1 Peter 2:22 both state this fact.
2. Jesus, most likely, drank alcohol. Jesus' first miracle was turning water into wine. The context suggests that it was wine and not grape juice (See John 2). Also in Matthew 11:18-19, Jesus implies that he drank wine or alcohol. He states, "For John did not come eating or drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon!' The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds" (Matt. 11:18-19). John didn't drink because he was forbidden by the Lord (see Luke 1:15). Jesus says he "came eating and drinking" in contrast to John which seems to imply Jesus drank alcohol. The accusation by the crowd was Jesus was a "drunkard." We can know for certain Jesus wasn't a drunkard, but if he never drank alcohol, why would they accuse him of such?
Drawing these two premises together, we can say since Jesus, who never sinned, likely consumed alcohol, we can conclude drinking alcohol, in and of itself, is not a sin. If our conclusion is true, then how do we approach alcohol?
1. Romans 14 has a lot to say about "disputable matters" or matters of conscience. Romans 14:21, places the consumption of alcohol in this category. In this passage, Paul gives us two guiding principles: serving God with a clear conscience and serving our neighbors in love.
2. Alcohol may be used as medicine. See 1 Timothy 5:23; and Prov. 31:6-7. Even our Church Covenant is worded so as not to exclude the use of alcohol as medicine. It states we are, "to abstain from the sale of, and use of, intoxicating drinks as a beverage."
3. Alcohol should be approached with caution, with the full awareness it can quickly master those who use it. See Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35.
4. Therefore, leaders should not consume alcohol. See Proverbs 31:4-5; 1 Tim. 3:3-8, Titus 1:7.
5. Those controlled by alcohol (drunkards) are condemned. Ephesians 5:18, helps us to understand drunkenness. By contrasting drunkenness with being filled by the Spirit, Paul paints a picture of total transformation. Being drunk with wine changes one's speech, their movement, and their attitudes. Being filled with the Spirit also changes one's speech, movement, and attitudes. Paul tells us that drunkards are among those who won't inherit the kingdom of heaven (1 Cor. 6:9-10). We are not even to associate with a professing believer who is a drunkard (1 Cor. 5:11).
6. Because the common understanding, within our culture, is that good Christians don't drink alcohol, it is best to abstain from drinking alcohol. Abstinence in these circumstances maintains the spirit of 1 Corinthians 8 and Romans 14.
7. On a personal note, I don't drink for several reasons. I learned a long time ago that I have an addictive personality, and I don't want to run the risk of being ruled by alcohol. I grew up in a home where drinking was frowned upon, and my conscience bares witness to that learning. I don't want set an example that leads others down a path that may destroy them. And I have covenanted with the Monticello to abstain from the sale of and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Sermon Recap 7-15-12
Morning: The sermon, "Worldliness," focused on 1 John 5:15-17. In this passage, John warns us not to love the world or the things of the world. Warren Wiersbe defines worldliness as: "Anything in a Christian's life that cause him to him to lose his enjoyment of the Father's love or his desire to do his Father's will." John states is more forcefully. He gives us two truths to focus on.
1. You can't love both the world and the Father.
John uses the term "world" here to speak of the evil organized earthy system that rails against the will of God. In other words, John is speaking about the kingdom of darkness. Look at how he defines the "things of the world":
2. You must choose: death or life?
John says the world is passing away. The "god of this age" has been defeated. The accuser of the brothers has no power. The kingdom of this world is being brought under the feet of Christ. Those who love this world will pass with it into the lake of fire.
But those who do the Father's will live forever. Loving the Father (and Jesus his Son) is demonstrated by our obedience to his commands.
What do we do with this?
Examine your life.
Repent of worldliness.
Draw near to the Father through Jesus his Son.
Practice self-discipline. Make no provision for the flesh.
Evening: The lesson, "99 Bottles" was a topical look at what the Bible says about Alcohol. A few weeks ago, I made a statement concerning drinking during a sermon. I said, "I'm not saying drinking is evil." The statement lacked clarity, and created some confusion as to what I believe concerning alcohol. First, I will explain why I said I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself. Then I'll explain how I think we should approach alcohol.
The reason I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself, is based on two premises draw from Scripture.
1. Jesus never sinned. Hebrews 4:15 and 1 Peter 2:22 both state this fact.
2. Jesus, most likely, drank alcohol. Jesus' first miracle was turning water into wine. The context suggests that it was wine and not grape juice (See John 2). Also in Matthew 11:18-19, Jesus implies that he drank wine or alcohol. He states, "For John did not come eating or drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon!' The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds" (Matt. 11:18-19). John didn't drink because he was forbidden by the Lord (see Luke 1:15). Jesus says he "came eating and drinking" in contrast to John which seems to imply Jesus drank alcohol. The accusation by the crowd was Jesus was a "drunkard." We can know for certain Jesus wasn't a drunkard, but if he never drank alcohol, why would they accuse him of such?
Drawing these two premises together, we can say since Jesus, who never sinned, likely consumed alcohol, we can conclude drinking alcohol, in and of itself, is not a sin. If our conclusion is true, then how do we approach alcohol?
1. Romans 14 has a lot to say about "disputable matters" or matters of conscience. Romans 14:21, places the consumption of alcohol in this category. In this passage, Paul gives us two guiding principles: serving God with a clear conscience and serving our neighbors in love.
2. Alcohol may be used as medicine. See 1 Timothy 5:23; and Prov. 31:6-7. Even our Church Covenant is worded so as not to exclude the use of alcohol as medicine. It states we are, "to abstain from the sale of, and use of, intoxicating drinks as a beverage."
3. Alcohol should be approached with caution, with the full awareness it can quickly master those who use it. See Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35.
4. Therefore, leaders should not consume alcohol. See Proverbs 31:4-5; 1 Tim. 3:3-8, Titus 1:7.
5. Those controlled by alcohol (drunkards) are condemned. Ephesians 5:18, helps us to understand drunkenness. By contrasting drunkenness with being filled by the Spirit, Paul paints a picture of total transformation. Being drunk with wine changes one's speech, their movement, and their attitudes. Being filled with the Spirit also changes one's speech, movement, and attitudes. Paul tells us that drunkards are among those who won't inherit the kingdom of heaven (1 Cor. 6:9-10). We are not even to associate with a professing believer who is a drunkard (1 Cor. 5:11).
6. Because the common understanding, within our culture, is that good Christians don't drink alcohol, it is best to abstain from drinking alcohol. Abstinence in these circumstances maintains the spirit of 1 Corinthians 8 and Romans 14.
7. On a personal note, I don't drink for several reasons. I learned a long time ago that I have an addictive personality, and I don't want to run the risk of being ruled by alcohol. I grew up in a home where drinking was frowned upon, and my conscience bares witness to that learning. I don't want set an example that leads others down a path that may destroy them. And I have covenanted with the Monticello to abstain from the sale of and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage.
1. You can't love both the world and the Father.
John uses the term "world" here to speak of the evil organized earthy system that rails against the will of God. In other words, John is speaking about the kingdom of darkness. Look at how he defines the "things of the world":
- Lusts of the Flesh (Cravings of sinful man)
- Hunger, Sleep, Sex Drive, Pleasure, Relaxation, Work, Family, Safety can all be turned from natural human desires to sinful excesses.
- Lusts of the Eyes
- Envy, Discontentment
- Pride of Life (Boasting in what he has and does)
- Materialism, Arrogance, Intellectualism
2. You must choose: death or life?
John says the world is passing away. The "god of this age" has been defeated. The accuser of the brothers has no power. The kingdom of this world is being brought under the feet of Christ. Those who love this world will pass with it into the lake of fire.
But those who do the Father's will live forever. Loving the Father (and Jesus his Son) is demonstrated by our obedience to his commands.
What do we do with this?
Examine your life.
Repent of worldliness.
Draw near to the Father through Jesus his Son.
Practice self-discipline. Make no provision for the flesh.
Evening: The lesson, "99 Bottles" was a topical look at what the Bible says about Alcohol. A few weeks ago, I made a statement concerning drinking during a sermon. I said, "I'm not saying drinking is evil." The statement lacked clarity, and created some confusion as to what I believe concerning alcohol. First, I will explain why I said I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself. Then I'll explain how I think we should approach alcohol.
The reason I don't think drinking is evil, in and of itself, is based on two premises draw from Scripture.
1. Jesus never sinned. Hebrews 4:15 and 1 Peter 2:22 both state this fact.
2. Jesus, most likely, drank alcohol. Jesus' first miracle was turning water into wine. The context suggests that it was wine and not grape juice (See John 2). Also in Matthew 11:18-19, Jesus implies that he drank wine or alcohol. He states, "For John did not come eating or drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon!' The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds" (Matt. 11:18-19). John didn't drink because he was forbidden by the Lord (see Luke 1:15). Jesus says he "came eating and drinking" in contrast to John which seems to imply Jesus drank alcohol. The accusation by the crowd was Jesus was a "drunkard." We can know for certain Jesus wasn't a drunkard, but if he never drank alcohol, why would they accuse him of such?
Drawing these two premises together, we can say since Jesus, who never sinned, likely consumed alcohol, we can conclude drinking alcohol, in and of itself, is not a sin. If our conclusion is true, then how do we approach alcohol?
1. Romans 14 has a lot to say about "disputable matters" or matters of conscience. Romans 14:21, places the consumption of alcohol in this category. In this passage, Paul gives us two guiding principles: serving God with a clear conscience and serving our neighbors in love.
2. Alcohol may be used as medicine. See 1 Timothy 5:23; and Prov. 31:6-7. Even our Church Covenant is worded so as not to exclude the use of alcohol as medicine. It states we are, "to abstain from the sale of, and use of, intoxicating drinks as a beverage."
3. Alcohol should be approached with caution, with the full awareness it can quickly master those who use it. See Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35.
4. Therefore, leaders should not consume alcohol. See Proverbs 31:4-5; 1 Tim. 3:3-8, Titus 1:7.
5. Those controlled by alcohol (drunkards) are condemned. Ephesians 5:18, helps us to understand drunkenness. By contrasting drunkenness with being filled by the Spirit, Paul paints a picture of total transformation. Being drunk with wine changes one's speech, their movement, and their attitudes. Being filled with the Spirit also changes one's speech, movement, and attitudes. Paul tells us that drunkards are among those who won't inherit the kingdom of heaven (1 Cor. 6:9-10). We are not even to associate with a professing believer who is a drunkard (1 Cor. 5:11).
6. Because the common understanding, within our culture, is that good Christians don't drink alcohol, it is best to abstain from drinking alcohol. Abstinence in these circumstances maintains the spirit of 1 Corinthians 8 and Romans 14.
7. On a personal note, I don't drink for several reasons. I learned a long time ago that I have an addictive personality, and I don't want to run the risk of being ruled by alcohol. I grew up in a home where drinking was frowned upon, and my conscience bares witness to that learning. I don't want set an example that leads others down a path that may destroy them. And I have covenanted with the Monticello to abstain from the sale of and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Food for Thought: Revelation 21:3-4
Here is a something worthy of meditation:
What a glorious day that will be, when death is swallowed up by life. I long for the day when we enter into our Savior's rest.
Then I heard a loud voice from the throne:Look! God's dwelling is with humanity,and he will live with them.They will be his people,and God himself with be with themand be their God.He will wipe away every tear from their eyes.Death will no longer exist;grief, crying, and pain will exist no longer,because the previous things have passed away (Rev. 21:3-4, HCSB).
What a glorious day that will be, when death is swallowed up by life. I long for the day when we enter into our Savior's rest.
Friday, July 13, 2012
As Luck Would Have It
Are you the superstitious sort? Does Friday the 13th, broken mirrors, and ladders blocking your way strike terror into your heart? I guess we all have our quirks. I decided a long time ago that Friday the 13th would be a good day for me, and it usually is.Luck is what you make of it. If we aren't careful our concept of luck will negate the role of providence in our lives, and keeps us shackled to fear. Every good gift comes from the Father above. A penny on the ground, a chance to share in the joy of others, a phone call from an friend; they all are from above. If we experience blessing, the kind hand of providence has order it so.
What about bad "luck" or hard circumstances. Surely a good God can't use bad circumstance to bless, can he? The short answer is yes. The cross is a great reminder of the harder providences of God. Sometimes, God allows hardships in our lives so that the comfort we experience before him can flow into the lives of others later on.
There is no need to fear a day or a broken mirror when you have entrusted yourself to the one who orders all things to the good of those who love him and are called according to his purposes. As it has been said, "Luck favors the prepared." Providence is just favor. God bless.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Thursday Humor: Children
Running a tad behind today. Here is a little humor to end your day or start your morning if you read this on Friday. Enjoy!
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
What's In a Name?
Shakespeare's Juliet once posed this question: "What is in a name?" She concludes, "That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." Juliet's dilemma centered on dating a boy from the "wrong" family. It may be easy to cast aside a name for romance, but it is not always easy under other circumstances. Today, names are given as based on preference.But in other times, and other cultures names were given to demonstrate the character of person or the hopes of the parents or the recognition of something significant. For example, as she lay dying, Rachel names her child, Ben-oni, son of my sorrow, but Jacob renames the boy Benjamin, son of my right hand.
What is in a name? It really depends on why the name was given in the first place and on who gave the name. A name may bear no significance at all. It may be devoid of all of its original meaning. A child may grow up wearing a label that was chosen simply for its pleasantness to the ears. Then again, it may tell you everything you need to know about a person.
For that reason, a study of the names of God is a fruitful study. God has revealed some of his invisible attributes through nature, such as, his omnipotence and eternality. However, if we are to truly know God he must reveal more of himself to us because it is beyond human ability to figure God out on our own. God has revealed himself to us through his Word. One of the ways that he reveals himself to mankind in his Word is through his names.
Each name or title reveals a facet of his character, nature, or being. The names help to illuminate our understanding of our Creator and Redeemer. As the various names of God were used for various circumstances, they serve to strength our faith that God is able to meet us in any situation.
More importantly, God reveals a concern for his name and his desire that his name should be treated as holy. The Third Commandment forbids the misuse of God's name. During the Exodus, the Lord told Pharaoh, "But I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth" (Ex. 9:16). Concerning his patience with Israel, the Lord states, "But I withheld my hand, and for the sake of my name I did what would keep it form being profaned in the eyes of the nations in whose sight I had brought them out" (Ezek. 20:22). Even Jesus stressed the importance of God's name when he taught his disciples to pray, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name" (Matt. 6:9).
God honors his name because it is synonymous with who he is. I invite you to join us on Wednesday nights (7:00 PM CST) at Monticello where we are studying the names of God. Each mediation is meant to draw us closer to the God who has revealed himself. He is great and greatly to be praised.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Spiritual Songs: Your Great Name
Although, "Your Great Name," isn't a "new" song, I only heard it recently and was captivated by it. Not only is Anthony Evan's voice powerful, but the words are captivating. One of the themes of Scripture is that God is making a name for himself. His name is synonymous with his character and glory.
Through Malachi, the prophet, the Lord says, "'For my name will be great among the nations, from the rising of the sun to its setting. Incense and pure offerings will be presented in My name in every place because My name will be great among the nations,' says Yahweh of Hosts" (Mal. 1:11).
Speaking of the incarnation and death of Jesus Paul reminds us, "For this reason God highly exalted him and gave him a name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow--of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth--and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father" (Phil. 2:9-11).
"Your Great Name," draws on some of the names (and titles) given to Jesus, and moves us to meditate upon them. The simple, repetitive nature of the song adds to its beauty. I hope this song moves your heart to celebrate the Lord's great name.
Through Malachi, the prophet, the Lord says, "'For my name will be great among the nations, from the rising of the sun to its setting. Incense and pure offerings will be presented in My name in every place because My name will be great among the nations,' says Yahweh of Hosts" (Mal. 1:11).
Speaking of the incarnation and death of Jesus Paul reminds us, "For this reason God highly exalted him and gave him a name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow--of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth--and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father" (Phil. 2:9-11).
"Your Great Name," draws on some of the names (and titles) given to Jesus, and moves us to meditate upon them. The simple, repetitive nature of the song adds to its beauty. I hope this song moves your heart to celebrate the Lord's great name.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Lessons from a Funeral Procession
As a pastor, I have been in several funeral processions. I'm usually between the police escort and the hearse, so I get to watch as people approach the procession. For some, as soon as they see the hearse, they move to the side of the road and patiently wait for procession to pass them. Others, begrudgingly follow the example of the those drivers, and pull to the side of the road. Some try to creep passed the procession unnoticed. Today, I witnessed a car keep driving as if everything was normal. Maybe they had an emergency. Maybe they were talking on their phone and didn't notice the police lights and the hearse with its flashing lights or the dozen cars crawling up the road with their lights on. But the sight saddened me.
It saddened me because it demonstrated a lack of respect for life (and death). It saddened me to imagine that we live in a world so busy we don't have time to pause a few moments and contemplate the deeper things of life.
Just because things change, doesn't mean respect has to die. We can keep a tradition of respect alive and well. I hope you will pull over the next time you see a funeral procession. Here are somethings you can do while you wait for the procession to finish passing:
1. Thank God that you are alive and well. Even if you are battling a serious illness, you are not in a box headed for your final resting place. God has given you the grace of one more day.
2. Resolve to make the most of the life you have been given. None of us knows when it will be our turn to die, so make the most of every opportunity.
3. Remember those you have lost and the ways in which they impacted your life.
4. Contemplate your mortality and make certain you are prepared to stand before your maker.
5. Pray for the family and friends of the person in the back of the hearse.
The simple truth is that even the longest funeral procession will be passed you in a matter of moments. Life as you know will resume, but a new life is dawning for those in the funeral procession. It is a life with a hole in it. Your moments of discomfort on the side of the road serves as a silent reminder that their loved one truly mattered. Your display of empathy will also remind them that life in this different world is possible.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Sermon Recap 7-8-12
Morning: The sermon, "The Joy of Forgiveness," explored Psalm 32. This passage reminds us that true joy is rooted in being forgiven by the Lord. David teaches us some important truths.
1. Holding on the unconfessed sin is dangerous. Shame and guilt have emotional and psychological price tags. They also lead to physical trouble as well. However, the greatest trouble with unconfessed sin is the spiritual price that comes with it. John states, "If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). A key word in this verse is "if." If we confess we get forgiveness and cleansing. If we do not confess, we remain in our sin.
2. Seek the Lord while he may be found. Sin sends us looking for a hiding place. When we turn from our sin to the living God, Christ becomes our hiding place. When God grants us an opportunity to confess and repent of our sins, that is the time to seek him.
3. Don't be stubborn, it only makes it worse. Sin tries to get us to withdraw, but God compels us to come to him.
What do we do with this?
A. We confess our sins. We confess to the Lord first, and those we have hurt next. Our confession should be a public (or private) as the sin. If you get caught in sin on the front page of the daily news, then a public confession is in order. If you have a squabble with your spouse, then confess your sin to them alone.
B. We trust the Lord to forgive. The blood of Christ has purchased our pardon. There is no condemnation in Christ (see Rom. 8:1).
C. We must develop a culture on confession. It should be normal and natural for Christians to share one another's burdens. We should be able to openly and honestly share our faults and failings without fear of rejection.
D. We need to seek the Lord. He is calling us to walk with him. We can only do that if we have entrusted ourselves to his care.
Evening: No service.
1. Holding on the unconfessed sin is dangerous. Shame and guilt have emotional and psychological price tags. They also lead to physical trouble as well. However, the greatest trouble with unconfessed sin is the spiritual price that comes with it. John states, "If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). A key word in this verse is "if." If we confess we get forgiveness and cleansing. If we do not confess, we remain in our sin.
2. Seek the Lord while he may be found. Sin sends us looking for a hiding place. When we turn from our sin to the living God, Christ becomes our hiding place. When God grants us an opportunity to confess and repent of our sins, that is the time to seek him.
3. Don't be stubborn, it only makes it worse. Sin tries to get us to withdraw, but God compels us to come to him.
What do we do with this?
A. We confess our sins. We confess to the Lord first, and those we have hurt next. Our confession should be a public (or private) as the sin. If you get caught in sin on the front page of the daily news, then a public confession is in order. If you have a squabble with your spouse, then confess your sin to them alone.
B. We trust the Lord to forgive. The blood of Christ has purchased our pardon. There is no condemnation in Christ (see Rom. 8:1).
C. We must develop a culture on confession. It should be normal and natural for Christians to share one another's burdens. We should be able to openly and honestly share our faults and failings without fear of rejection.
D. We need to seek the Lord. He is calling us to walk with him. We can only do that if we have entrusted ourselves to his care.
Evening: No service.
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