My Bible reading plan has me in 1 Chronicles (and other place) right now. Although the first few chapters are mostly genealogies, there are encouraging bits and pieces here and there. First Chronicles 5:20 states, "And when they [the Rubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh] prevailed over them, the Hagrites and all who were with them were given over into their hands, for they cried out to God in the battle, and he granted their urgent plea because they trusted in him."
Notice that the Chronicler attributes their success not to their ability or size of their army, but to the Lord's response to their prayer. What makes this remarkable is that he has already described the army. He states they were "valiant men who carried shield and sword, and drew a bow, expert in war, 44,760, able to go to war" (1 Chr. 5:18). Their power to prevail was not rooted in their own power.
Whether the army they fought was bigger, we are not told. But the battle must have been intense. Notice that it says they "cried out to God" and that "he granted their urgent plea." The battle wasn't a walk in the park. These were valiant men, experts in war. They were able and willing, yet their pleas to God were urgent. I don't imagine them to be cowards curled up in the fetal position in a foxhole asking God to get them out of trouble. These were men who were in the heat of battle praying for strength or wisdom or both.
Their prayers won the day because they trusted the Lord to answer. The author of Hebrews states, "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him" (Heb. 11:6). Paul touches on the importance of the Word to our faith. He states, "For 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.' But how are they to call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? . . . So faith comes from hearing the, and hearing through the word of Christ" (Rom. 10:13-17).
Reading Scripture, studying it, meditating on it, memorizing it, hearing it read, taught, or preached has the potential to grow our faith--if we act upon it. As faith grows, prayer grows. I am convinced that a person's prayer life is directly proportional to their faith in God. If you believe there is a God, and that he rewards those who seek him, then you will seek him. You will not only seek him in weakness, but even when you feel absolutely capable of handling by yourself.
Truths to remember:
1. There is God.
2. He answers prayers prayed in faith.
Will you call out to him in prayer? John says, "And this is the confidence we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him" (1 John 5:14-15). Let 2016 be a year of faithful prayer.
Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Friday, April 4, 2014
Why Isn't It Working?
I have heard many Christians say, "I've been praying. I wonder why it isn't working." An atheist would scoff, and say it is because there is no one there to hear our prayers. But how is the believer to respond?
If we buy into what some churches are teaching, we might conclude that God's greatest desire for us is our happiness. There are many professing Christians today who believe God doesn't want us to suffer hardship or want. They believe that God will remove every obstacle from their path so they can march to heaven on an easy path. Within this kind of thinking, unanswered prayer leaves the believer confused.
However, the Bible teaches a different way of understanding. We are promised tribulation in this world. The rest we yearn for is still yet to come, so we plod along relying on our Lord. God's great desire for believers is their holiness, not their happiness. Hardships teach us perseverance, and perseverance, when we have learned it well, produces faith.
It doesn't take much to make a child (or some adults) happy. You just have to give them what they want, when they want it. Holiness requires more. To be holy, one must often go against their own nature. They must deny themselves some of their desires. It takes effort, but holiness is what God demands from all people. Once the taste for holiness is required, it brings happiness. But until we do the hard work of waiting, learning, and growing, we will never experience lasting holiness or happiness.
With this backdrop, let us return to the opening question. Why do some prayers go unanswered? Charles Bridges, a pastor in the 1800s, addressed as similar question his book, The Christian Ministry. While his initial question was more concerned with why ministry isn't always as fruitful as one would hope, his answer applies here. He stated,
If we buy into what some churches are teaching, we might conclude that God's greatest desire for us is our happiness. There are many professing Christians today who believe God doesn't want us to suffer hardship or want. They believe that God will remove every obstacle from their path so they can march to heaven on an easy path. Within this kind of thinking, unanswered prayer leaves the believer confused.
However, the Bible teaches a different way of understanding. We are promised tribulation in this world. The rest we yearn for is still yet to come, so we plod along relying on our Lord. God's great desire for believers is their holiness, not their happiness. Hardships teach us perseverance, and perseverance, when we have learned it well, produces faith.
It doesn't take much to make a child (or some adults) happy. You just have to give them what they want, when they want it. Holiness requires more. To be holy, one must often go against their own nature. They must deny themselves some of their desires. It takes effort, but holiness is what God demands from all people. Once the taste for holiness is required, it brings happiness. But until we do the hard work of waiting, learning, and growing, we will never experience lasting holiness or happiness.
With this backdrop, let us return to the opening question. Why do some prayers go unanswered? Charles Bridges, a pastor in the 1800s, addressed as similar question his book, The Christian Ministry. While his initial question was more concerned with why ministry isn't always as fruitful as one would hope, his answer applies here. He stated,
But why is this promised blessing withheld?--"Even so; Father; for so it seemth good in they sight." Yet we must not slumber in acquiescence without self-inquiry. Do we fervently seek and cherish this influence? Do we actively "stir up the gift of God which is in us?" Above all, does our pulpit set out that full exhibition of our Divine Master, which alone commands this heavenly blessing? The encouragement of prayer and faith are always the same. God is indeed absolutely sovereign in the distribution of his blessing; but by his command to seek, he has pledged himself, that we shall not seek in vain. Having freely promised, he will faithfully perform. Let all means be used in diligence, but in dependence--in self-denial, but in self-renunciation.So the simple answer to our question is that God doesn't answer because he has chosen to hold back. The reasoning may escape us in the present (and possibly in the future), but we must push forward. When every effort has been made, every motive examined, every sin confessed, yet there is no discernible reason for our lack of success, we must trust in God's sovereign wisdom. He is worthy of our undying trust, even when we don't know what he is doing.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Lord Be My Helper
Do you ever have the broken feeling? You know the one. It feels like the rest of the world is marching forward, but you're just spinning your wheels. You watch as others celebrate the victories you wished you had. You know you should rejoice with them, but you can't help but wonder what is wrong with you.
Maybe you feel like your prayers aren't being heard, or worse God has chosen to leave you in your rebellion.
You feel your soul shrinking by the hour. The light of hope wanes, and the darkness begins to close in on you. You feel alone in a crowd, and have to struggle to get through the day. You're always worried that people will see your brokenness, and reject you.
You hunger for change, but dread that it will take you to places you don't want to go. Or worse, if you attempt to change, you'll only fail (again). So you fold your expectations away, put them in a box, and stuff them in the darkest corner of the closet of your heart.
You just keep messing up. You're starting to wonder if you were ever truly saved. Why hasn't Jesus stepped in to save the day? Even as the words enter your mind, you know they are wrong, but you can't stop thinking them.
You feel like you're backed in a corner. There is no one who can help you. If you tell anyone, they only confirm your worst fears--you are a deceived hypocrite without any hope of salvation.
What if that broken feeling was meant to make you stop running? What if it was meant to bring you to a place of surrender? What if God is really telling you, "Stop flopping around, I have got you. I won't let you go."
The truth is there are people to whom you can talk. The Lord has not nor will he forsake you. There comes a time during those broken moments when we have to stop thrashing around in our self-pity and limited perspective. We just have to yield to the wisdom of the Lord, and cry out, "Lord, listen and be gracious to me; Lord be my helper" (Psalm 30:10).
Maybe you feel like your prayers aren't being heard, or worse God has chosen to leave you in your rebellion.
You feel your soul shrinking by the hour. The light of hope wanes, and the darkness begins to close in on you. You feel alone in a crowd, and have to struggle to get through the day. You're always worried that people will see your brokenness, and reject you.
You hunger for change, but dread that it will take you to places you don't want to go. Or worse, if you attempt to change, you'll only fail (again). So you fold your expectations away, put them in a box, and stuff them in the darkest corner of the closet of your heart.
You just keep messing up. You're starting to wonder if you were ever truly saved. Why hasn't Jesus stepped in to save the day? Even as the words enter your mind, you know they are wrong, but you can't stop thinking them.
You feel like you're backed in a corner. There is no one who can help you. If you tell anyone, they only confirm your worst fears--you are a deceived hypocrite without any hope of salvation.
What if that broken feeling was meant to make you stop running? What if it was meant to bring you to a place of surrender? What if God is really telling you, "Stop flopping around, I have got you. I won't let you go."
The truth is there are people to whom you can talk. The Lord has not nor will he forsake you. There comes a time during those broken moments when we have to stop thrashing around in our self-pity and limited perspective. We just have to yield to the wisdom of the Lord, and cry out, "Lord, listen and be gracious to me; Lord be my helper" (Psalm 30:10).
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Look with Eyes of Faith
"In the year the King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, and His robe filled the temple" (Isa. 6:1, HCSB).
The connection of Uzziah's passing and Isaiah's vision is easy to miss. Isaiah, like many in his day, thought the world of King Uzziah. His death might mean that his throne was left to lesser men. Isaiah, like many righteous people, shudder to think about what would happen to that empty throne.
In the midst of his grief, God gave Isaiah a vision. He reminded Isaiah that there is a greater throne than the one the king set upon. Although, Uzziah had died, Yahweh still sat enthroned. His control would not waiver. His strength would not wane.
There is no crisis so great, that a true glimpse of God can't overcome. There is no darkness so deep, that God's light can't penetrate. If we will look with eyes of faith, and see Him seated on His high and lofty throne, we can find the strength to face the dark, difficult days ahead.
The connection of Uzziah's passing and Isaiah's vision is easy to miss. Isaiah, like many in his day, thought the world of King Uzziah. His death might mean that his throne was left to lesser men. Isaiah, like many righteous people, shudder to think about what would happen to that empty throne.
In the midst of his grief, God gave Isaiah a vision. He reminded Isaiah that there is a greater throne than the one the king set upon. Although, Uzziah had died, Yahweh still sat enthroned. His control would not waiver. His strength would not wane.
There is no crisis so great, that a true glimpse of God can't overcome. There is no darkness so deep, that God's light can't penetrate. If we will look with eyes of faith, and see Him seated on His high and lofty throne, we can find the strength to face the dark, difficult days ahead.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Decisions, Decisions
How do you go about making decisions? Do you put the choices in a hat, shake it up, and pull one out? Or are you one of those decisive people who make lightning quick decisions? Maybe you like to pray about it awhile. But in the end, how do you know you made the right choice? Sometimes, I wish we still had the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:30).
Some choices are easier because they are morally neutral. Does it really matter if you get the steak or the chicken, the fish or the pork? Not unless you are drifting into gluttony by ordering all of them. Is there a moral difference between yellow and green? These decisions can be made with little or no fear because there is no moral nature to them.
Other decisions are easier to make because the Bible gives us clear, moral guidance. Somethings, like murder, are wrong and when presented with the temptation, we must refrain. Other things, like showing mercy, are always right, and should be practiced.
But other decisions are harder because there is not a clear moral directive. In situations like these, it pays to be familiar with the Bible's teaching on various subjects. We know showing mercy is always right, but what exactly should mercy look like. If we aren't careful, our acts of mercy might enable someone to slip into a habitual sin pattern like laziness or drunkenness. Sometimes mercy takes the form of tough love. The Word of God is our ultimate guide providing us with teachings and principles that should inform our decisions. A well informed conscience is a relatively reliable guide.
But how do you know if a decision was the right one? Some say "peace of mind." Some say "the greater good." There are many ways to measure, but not all of them are right. In truth, there isn't always a clear cut answer. You just have to trust that God will measure the intentions, and graciously work all things for his glory and your good.
Some choices are easier because they are morally neutral. Does it really matter if you get the steak or the chicken, the fish or the pork? Not unless you are drifting into gluttony by ordering all of them. Is there a moral difference between yellow and green? These decisions can be made with little or no fear because there is no moral nature to them.
Other decisions are easier to make because the Bible gives us clear, moral guidance. Somethings, like murder, are wrong and when presented with the temptation, we must refrain. Other things, like showing mercy, are always right, and should be practiced.
But other decisions are harder because there is not a clear moral directive. In situations like these, it pays to be familiar with the Bible's teaching on various subjects. We know showing mercy is always right, but what exactly should mercy look like. If we aren't careful, our acts of mercy might enable someone to slip into a habitual sin pattern like laziness or drunkenness. Sometimes mercy takes the form of tough love. The Word of God is our ultimate guide providing us with teachings and principles that should inform our decisions. A well informed conscience is a relatively reliable guide.
But how do you know if a decision was the right one? Some say "peace of mind." Some say "the greater good." There are many ways to measure, but not all of them are right. In truth, there isn't always a clear cut answer. You just have to trust that God will measure the intentions, and graciously work all things for his glory and your good.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
What Is Faith?
We talk a lot about faith in the church. We talk about "the faith," that is, the doctrinal truths of Christianity. We encourage each other to have faith. We acknowledge that we are saved by faith. But what is faith?
Here are some ways Baptists have defined faith:
The author of Hebrews says, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen" (Heb. 11:1). While these definitions help us to understand what faith is, that doesn't mean they make faith any easier to explain. Models can be helpful tools. They make it easier to grasp concepts more quickly.
Abraham is a great model of faith. The author of Hebrews points out, "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going" (Heb. 11:8). Hebrews 11:8-19 is an amazing picture of faith. The author of Hebrews uses three events in Abraham's life to flesh out faith. He recounts Abraham's call, God's covenant with Abraham, and Abraham's test.
Through Abraham's example, we learn what faith is. Biblical faith, saving faith, is a trust that produces obedience without regard to the cost. Abraham had to walk away from his family (and inheritance), he had to face the weakness of his aging body, and he had to offer up his son. Yet, he was willing to do this because he was confident in the One who was making these demands on his life.
Abraham understood that the LORD is a holy God. He is a faithful God. He is a God with the power to do as He wills. Abraham rested in that knowledge. God's promises cannot fail. Since they cannot fail, they will not fail.
I heard it said, "Faith is taking God at his word." Can we trust God? Yes, without question. We may not understand the circumstances in which we find ourselves, but we can always trust God's providence. Have faith, friend. God is worthy of such trust.
Here are some ways Baptists have defined faith:
- What is faith in Jesus Christ? Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace whereby we receive and rest upon him alone (Baptist Catechism).
- What is faith? Faith is the cordial belief of the testimony God has given us in his word (John Sutcliff, The First Principles of the Oracles of God).
- What is Faith? It is believing what the Bible tells us about Jesus, and trusting our salvation into his hands. Is this belief an act of the mind only? No; it is with the whole heart, so that we are led to love and obey Christ (James P. Boice).
- What do the Scriptures mean by faith in Christ? By faith in Christ, the Scriptures mean believing Christ to be the divine savior, and personally trusting him for our salvation (John Broadus).
- What is the meaning of faith? It is belief or confidence in the declaration of God (Henry Clay Fish).
The author of Hebrews says, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen" (Heb. 11:1). While these definitions help us to understand what faith is, that doesn't mean they make faith any easier to explain. Models can be helpful tools. They make it easier to grasp concepts more quickly.
Abraham is a great model of faith. The author of Hebrews points out, "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going" (Heb. 11:8). Hebrews 11:8-19 is an amazing picture of faith. The author of Hebrews uses three events in Abraham's life to flesh out faith. He recounts Abraham's call, God's covenant with Abraham, and Abraham's test.
Through Abraham's example, we learn what faith is. Biblical faith, saving faith, is a trust that produces obedience without regard to the cost. Abraham had to walk away from his family (and inheritance), he had to face the weakness of his aging body, and he had to offer up his son. Yet, he was willing to do this because he was confident in the One who was making these demands on his life.
Abraham understood that the LORD is a holy God. He is a faithful God. He is a God with the power to do as He wills. Abraham rested in that knowledge. God's promises cannot fail. Since they cannot fail, they will not fail.
I heard it said, "Faith is taking God at his word." Can we trust God? Yes, without question. We may not understand the circumstances in which we find ourselves, but we can always trust God's providence. Have faith, friend. God is worthy of such trust.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
I Can Call on You
Psalm 77 is a beautiful picture of a heart moved from despair to renewed faith through the power of meditation. Don Whitney defines meditation as "deep thinking on the truths and spiritual realities revealed in Scripture for the purposes of understanding, application, and prayer."
The Psalmist paints a picture of utter desolation in the Psalm 77:1-9. He feels abandoned by God, distressed, and inconsolable. He is groaning under the burden of unanswered prayer; he is left without words.
Yet in verse 10, we see a transition take place. He appears to awaken from his myopic self-focus, and shift his gaze toward God. As he does, his spirits begin to rise. Hope returns as his faith is renewed. He offers us a threefold path to follow: remember, meditate, and consider. The terms are closely related, but help us to see the progression of thought. It begins with igniting the memory, then moves on to deep thought about the subject, and concludes with applying those thoughts in reasonable ways.
Asaph focuses his attention on three things: the holy nature of God, God's power, and God's role as Redeemer. Psalm 77:16-19, describes the world under the scrutiny of Asaph' God. God's awesome presence makes earth and sea quake in fear, yet he tenderly leads his people like a shepherd with his flock.
Psalm 77:19 offers us a gentle reminder, "Your path led through the sea, you way through the mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen." In other words, God guides his people through difficult passages, even when they don't realize it. Asaph leaves us with a simple but profound truth, we can keep trusting in God's continued faithfulness.
The Psalmist paints a picture of utter desolation in the Psalm 77:1-9. He feels abandoned by God, distressed, and inconsolable. He is groaning under the burden of unanswered prayer; he is left without words.
Yet in verse 10, we see a transition take place. He appears to awaken from his myopic self-focus, and shift his gaze toward God. As he does, his spirits begin to rise. Hope returns as his faith is renewed. He offers us a threefold path to follow: remember, meditate, and consider. The terms are closely related, but help us to see the progression of thought. It begins with igniting the memory, then moves on to deep thought about the subject, and concludes with applying those thoughts in reasonable ways.
Asaph focuses his attention on three things: the holy nature of God, God's power, and God's role as Redeemer. Psalm 77:16-19, describes the world under the scrutiny of Asaph' God. God's awesome presence makes earth and sea quake in fear, yet he tenderly leads his people like a shepherd with his flock.
Psalm 77:19 offers us a gentle reminder, "Your path led through the sea, you way through the mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen." In other words, God guides his people through difficult passages, even when they don't realize it. Asaph leaves us with a simple but profound truth, we can keep trusting in God's continued faithfulness.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Seeking to Please God
"May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer" (Ps. 19:14).
In this verse, David reminds us of the heart-mouth connection. The heart is another term for inner man. Jesus tells us, "For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks" (Matt. 12:45; Luke 6:45; see also Mark 7:20-23). The heart is the source of problems. As Jeremiah reminds us the heart "deceitful above all things" and "beyond cure" (see Jer. 17:9-10).
If the meditations of our heart are to be pleasing to the Lord, then we have to begin with a new heart. The Lord is the source of our new heart (see Ezek. 36:25-29). The Bible calls it a lot of things: circumcision of the heart, new birth, or putting on Christ to name a few. The important thing is that we become new creatures (see 2 Cor. 5:17).
Once we have come to the Lord in faith, we have to determine to please the Lord. Like David, we have to make pleasing the Lord the central focus of our lives.
The next step is to follow through. David had determined to please God, and he took kept at it. He fixed his mind on God, so that the ordinary things of life drew him into praising God. David's prayer was for the right thoughts that led to the right words.
Finally, we must rest in God. David called on the LORD, the God of the covenant. He was expressing his faith in God's faithfulness. He looked to God as his Rock, a source of strength and shelter. He saw God as his Redeemer ready to rescue him.
David gives us a good framework for seeking to please God. He reminds us that God desires a pure heart, and that only God can give us that heart. How do you seek to please God?
In this verse, David reminds us of the heart-mouth connection. The heart is another term for inner man. Jesus tells us, "For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks" (Matt. 12:45; Luke 6:45; see also Mark 7:20-23). The heart is the source of problems. As Jeremiah reminds us the heart "deceitful above all things" and "beyond cure" (see Jer. 17:9-10).
If the meditations of our heart are to be pleasing to the Lord, then we have to begin with a new heart. The Lord is the source of our new heart (see Ezek. 36:25-29). The Bible calls it a lot of things: circumcision of the heart, new birth, or putting on Christ to name a few. The important thing is that we become new creatures (see 2 Cor. 5:17).
Once we have come to the Lord in faith, we have to determine to please the Lord. Like David, we have to make pleasing the Lord the central focus of our lives.
The next step is to follow through. David had determined to please God, and he took kept at it. He fixed his mind on God, so that the ordinary things of life drew him into praising God. David's prayer was for the right thoughts that led to the right words.
Finally, we must rest in God. David called on the LORD, the God of the covenant. He was expressing his faith in God's faithfulness. He looked to God as his Rock, a source of strength and shelter. He saw God as his Redeemer ready to rescue him.
David gives us a good framework for seeking to please God. He reminds us that God desires a pure heart, and that only God can give us that heart. How do you seek to please God?
Thursday, June 16, 2011
All Other Ground Is Sinking Sand
Have you ever had an experience where several pieces of information
all hit you at the same time so that you get overwhelmed? Sometimes, I
get jammed up when I begin contemplating all the possible things that
could go wrong in life. It does take long to feel like I'm sinking in
quicksand when I begin to play the "What if?" game. I hate that game.
Earlier this week, I read an article concerning children who abandon the faith when they grow up. Then I saw a video of one such fellow, who as a young adult abandoned the biblical God. Satan begin to hit me with the what ifs. I began to wonder what if Sophia doesn't come to faith in Christ? What if something I say or do drives her away from Christ and the Church? What if this generation is the last generation? The battle raged along these lines for days.
I was listening to Paul Simon's Slip Sliding Away after dropping some kids off from VBS. It's a melancholy song, and it fed my growing despair. I felt like I was trying to tread water in an ocean of doubt, only to be handed an anchor. I was sinking fast. What if I'm only fooling myself? What if God is through with me? What if it's all over? My head was under the waves, yet I continued to thrash. I kept fighting to catch a breath of faith. Breathe. Breathe.
As I slipped into a sea of doubt, something caught me. I should say, someone. While reading the Bible, I came across Jesus' words, "Be courageous! I have conquered the world" (John 16:33). I suddenly, I remember what I had known all along--my Savior is ever present. He is with me, and he will not let me drown. He has overcome.
It is easy to look at the world and assume that Jesus isn't in control. Everywhere you look sin and death have a solid grasp on world. If we fail to understand the biblical tension between what Jesus has already accomplished, and what has not yet been fully experienced, we can be easily led astray.
Jesus already has control of the universe. He sustains it with his word. The question arises, "Why hasn't Jesus fixed everything yet?". The answer is simple: patience. He doesn't want destroy humanity. He desires for humans to repent and believe. In his grace, He is giving them time to repent. The opportunity is there, the offer has been made, but he will not wait forever.
If we are to fend off despair, we must remember what is, and what is yet to come. We must also remember what is isn't always what it appears to be. God is there, even when though we can't see him. He is at work, even when we can't trace his hand. He is worthy of our trust.
I think this is why Jesus spoke so strongly against worry. Worry implies a complete lack of trust in God. There is no such thing as an unforeseen circumstance for God. He knows all, sees all. He is all wise and merciful. He is righteous and just. These are the bedrock upon which are faith is built. Worry erodes faith. When we fail to silence the nagging voice in our mind that seeks to strip our trust of God, we endanger our faith. Instead, we should nourish our faith by reading Scripture and allowing it to speak to us.
Are you wresting with doubt? How do you handle that overwhelmed feeling? How do you build up your faith? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment.
Earlier this week, I read an article concerning children who abandon the faith when they grow up. Then I saw a video of one such fellow, who as a young adult abandoned the biblical God. Satan begin to hit me with the what ifs. I began to wonder what if Sophia doesn't come to faith in Christ? What if something I say or do drives her away from Christ and the Church? What if this generation is the last generation? The battle raged along these lines for days.
I was listening to Paul Simon's Slip Sliding Away after dropping some kids off from VBS. It's a melancholy song, and it fed my growing despair. I felt like I was trying to tread water in an ocean of doubt, only to be handed an anchor. I was sinking fast. What if I'm only fooling myself? What if God is through with me? What if it's all over? My head was under the waves, yet I continued to thrash. I kept fighting to catch a breath of faith. Breathe. Breathe.
As I slipped into a sea of doubt, something caught me. I should say, someone. While reading the Bible, I came across Jesus' words, "Be courageous! I have conquered the world" (John 16:33). I suddenly, I remember what I had known all along--my Savior is ever present. He is with me, and he will not let me drown. He has overcome.
It is easy to look at the world and assume that Jesus isn't in control. Everywhere you look sin and death have a solid grasp on world. If we fail to understand the biblical tension between what Jesus has already accomplished, and what has not yet been fully experienced, we can be easily led astray.
Jesus already has control of the universe. He sustains it with his word. The question arises, "Why hasn't Jesus fixed everything yet?". The answer is simple: patience. He doesn't want destroy humanity. He desires for humans to repent and believe. In his grace, He is giving them time to repent. The opportunity is there, the offer has been made, but he will not wait forever.
If we are to fend off despair, we must remember what is, and what is yet to come. We must also remember what is isn't always what it appears to be. God is there, even when though we can't see him. He is at work, even when we can't trace his hand. He is worthy of our trust.
I think this is why Jesus spoke so strongly against worry. Worry implies a complete lack of trust in God. There is no such thing as an unforeseen circumstance for God. He knows all, sees all. He is all wise and merciful. He is righteous and just. These are the bedrock upon which are faith is built. Worry erodes faith. When we fail to silence the nagging voice in our mind that seeks to strip our trust of God, we endanger our faith. Instead, we should nourish our faith by reading Scripture and allowing it to speak to us.
Are you wresting with doubt? How do you handle that overwhelmed feeling? How do you build up your faith? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Tried and True
G. K. Chesterton was wrote, "The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and left untried." The general essence of his statement is that Christianity at its core is humanly impossible. People cannot walk according to the Word of God in their own strength, so they conclude that no one can do it.
The Scriptures are clear that the Christian walk is a supernatural one. It is clear from John 3 that the new birth is a work of the Spirit in the life of a believer. The Holy Spirit is the one who quickens the heart through the work of regeneration. It is he who plants the seed of faith. We don't become believers by praying a prayer. We become the children of God when we trust Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
In order for us to trust Jesus, our hearts have to be changed. The Holy Spirit works that change in us. It is to paraphrase Paul, God who works in us to will and to do his good will (see Phil. 2:13). Thus, many people "try" Christianity only to find that they don't have what it takes to walk the walk. They become disillusioned and abandon the faith.
For this reason, the apostles urge us to search our hearts to see if we have evidence of the work of the Spirit (see Rom. 8:16; 1 Cor. 2:4-12; 2 Cor. 1:22; Jam. 1:26; 2 Pet. 1:10). When asked who can be saved, Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God" (Luke 18:27).
The trick is not to try harder, but to yield to the only one who has the power to change you. Christ is our only hope for living the Christian ideal. Yes, it is difficult. In truth, it is impossible apart from Christ. But when we trust him, he gives us the strength we need.
The Scriptures are clear that the Christian walk is a supernatural one. It is clear from John 3 that the new birth is a work of the Spirit in the life of a believer. The Holy Spirit is the one who quickens the heart through the work of regeneration. It is he who plants the seed of faith. We don't become believers by praying a prayer. We become the children of God when we trust Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
In order for us to trust Jesus, our hearts have to be changed. The Holy Spirit works that change in us. It is to paraphrase Paul, God who works in us to will and to do his good will (see Phil. 2:13). Thus, many people "try" Christianity only to find that they don't have what it takes to walk the walk. They become disillusioned and abandon the faith.
For this reason, the apostles urge us to search our hearts to see if we have evidence of the work of the Spirit (see Rom. 8:16; 1 Cor. 2:4-12; 2 Cor. 1:22; Jam. 1:26; 2 Pet. 1:10). When asked who can be saved, Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God" (Luke 18:27).
The trick is not to try harder, but to yield to the only one who has the power to change you. Christ is our only hope for living the Christian ideal. Yes, it is difficult. In truth, it is impossible apart from Christ. But when we trust him, he gives us the strength we need.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Why Wait?
Doubt not
his willingness to save you,
because you are a sinner.
It is Christ's office to save sinners.
He says of himself,
"I came not to call the righteous,
but sinners to repentance" (Luke 5:32)
J.C. Ryle, A Call to Prayer
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
How Do You Respond to the Word of God?
"And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe" (1 Thes. 2:13, NIV).
Here Paul teaches us that there is two basic responses to the Word of God. We can treat it like it is a word from men, merely a man's opinions. Or we can treat it like it actually is the Word of God. Now specifically, Paul is addressing the gospel proclamation, but his statement can be taken in a more general sense to refer to the whole of God's Word. Paul makes it clear in his other writings that his message wasn't something he dreamed up, but it was a direct revelation from Jesus Christ. Peter says,
Other, like the Thessalonians, receive the word as it actually is-as the Word of God. These individuals are like the good soil which receives the seed and bears fruit. Only when we receive the Word with obedience that comes from faith, can we really say we are receiving it as the Word of God.
In fact, Paul's gratitude for and confidence in the believers in Thessalonica rests in the fact that he is witnessing fruit in their lives. Paul saw how the Thessalonians responded with faithful perseverance in the face of opposition, and he commended them. What is more, Paul found in their endurance the evidence of their faith, and he praised God for it. He went on to explain that those who did not receive God's Word, like the Thessalonians, were under God's wrath. Their enemies were God's enemies first, but God would take care of them.
The passage, 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16, can teach us many things. I want point out four implications of this passage.
Here Paul teaches us that there is two basic responses to the Word of God. We can treat it like it is a word from men, merely a man's opinions. Or we can treat it like it actually is the Word of God. Now specifically, Paul is addressing the gospel proclamation, but his statement can be taken in a more general sense to refer to the whole of God's Word. Paul makes it clear in his other writings that his message wasn't something he dreamed up, but it was a direct revelation from Jesus Christ. Peter says,
We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. . . . Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God, as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit (2 Pet. 1:16-21, NIV).Not everyone recognizes God's Word. Some hear it, but fail to grasp its meaning. Jesus teaches this in the parable of the sower in Mark 4. He relates three ways people treat the Word as if it were merely the word of men. He tells us:
- They ignore it, often with the devil's help (the seed on the hard path)
- They rejoice over it without commitment (the seed on the rocky soil)
- They all other things to drive out the word (the seed in the weeds)
Other, like the Thessalonians, receive the word as it actually is-as the Word of God. These individuals are like the good soil which receives the seed and bears fruit. Only when we receive the Word with obedience that comes from faith, can we really say we are receiving it as the Word of God.
In fact, Paul's gratitude for and confidence in the believers in Thessalonica rests in the fact that he is witnessing fruit in their lives. Paul saw how the Thessalonians responded with faithful perseverance in the face of opposition, and he commended them. What is more, Paul found in their endurance the evidence of their faith, and he praised God for it. He went on to explain that those who did not receive God's Word, like the Thessalonians, were under God's wrath. Their enemies were God's enemies first, but God would take care of them.
The passage, 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16, can teach us many things. I want point out four implications of this passage.
- How we respond to the Word of God reveals the true nature of our heart. We are called to trust and obey the Word of God, because the God, who spoke it, is trustworthy and true.
- We are to accept the Word of God with both deep conviction and deep affection. Some people want to over-intellectualize faith, and other want to over-emotionalize it. True faith combines the best efforts of our (sanctified) hearts and minds.
- When one tries to take a "middle of the road" approach to Scripture, he usually ends up rejecting it as the Word of God. When some suggests that the Bible is spiritual book, but not a work of the Spirit; or suggests that it contains the Word of God, but also has the erroneous thoughts of man, they are on a slippery slope towards rejecting most of the truths of the Bible. The right response to the Word of God is whole-heart trust.
- Confidence in the Word usually generates faith. Even when we don't fully understand something, our default position should be to trust the Scriptures because they are not the words of men, but the Word of God.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Justified by Faith
"For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law" (Rom. 3:28).
I think a lot of people struggle with justification. I was recently reading J. C. Ryle's Holiness in which he states that people often confuse justification and sanctification. He explains that the act of being declared right in the sight of God (justification) is different from the process of becoming righteous (sanctification).
It is often difficult to "feel" right with God, because we don't always act righteously. This failure to conform to God's standard generates conviction accompanied by godly sorrow. This experience is meant to drive us to confession and repentance. When we confess, we acknowledge our guilt for breaking God's righteous standard. When we repent, we turn from our sin and pursue God's ways.
Now it is important to realize that the declaration of our righteousness, by God, is a fixed reality. We cannot be more righteous. By God's grace, through faith in Christ's work and person, we are extended full and free pardon. In Christ, we are viewed as right with God. The sin debt we owed to a holy God has been paid in full by Christ Jesus our Lord.
In our experiences; however, we need realize that the Holy Spirit is at work in us to bring about the righteousness we possess. Growing in righteousness is a long and painful process, but one we can be sure the Spirit will bring to completion (Phil. 1:6).
If we do not keep these two realities separate in our minds, we will lack confidence in our salvation. When conviction hits, Satan often attacks with accusations intended to hijack godly sorrow so that he can immobilize us. Understanding that we stand right before God, by grace through faith, makes it easier to confess, repent, and move forward in obedience. When we understand that our right standing before God is based solely on God's grace, it encourages us to cling more closely to him.
If we also understand that the Spirit is growing into the fullness of the righteousness that has been given to us in Christ, it will keep us from believing Satan's lies. We are not right with God because of what we do. We are right with God because of what Jesus did. By his grace, we walk in line with that truth.
I think a lot of people struggle with justification. I was recently reading J. C. Ryle's Holiness in which he states that people often confuse justification and sanctification. He explains that the act of being declared right in the sight of God (justification) is different from the process of becoming righteous (sanctification).
It is often difficult to "feel" right with God, because we don't always act righteously. This failure to conform to God's standard generates conviction accompanied by godly sorrow. This experience is meant to drive us to confession and repentance. When we confess, we acknowledge our guilt for breaking God's righteous standard. When we repent, we turn from our sin and pursue God's ways.
Now it is important to realize that the declaration of our righteousness, by God, is a fixed reality. We cannot be more righteous. By God's grace, through faith in Christ's work and person, we are extended full and free pardon. In Christ, we are viewed as right with God. The sin debt we owed to a holy God has been paid in full by Christ Jesus our Lord.
In our experiences; however, we need realize that the Holy Spirit is at work in us to bring about the righteousness we possess. Growing in righteousness is a long and painful process, but one we can be sure the Spirit will bring to completion (Phil. 1:6).
If we do not keep these two realities separate in our minds, we will lack confidence in our salvation. When conviction hits, Satan often attacks with accusations intended to hijack godly sorrow so that he can immobilize us. Understanding that we stand right before God, by grace through faith, makes it easier to confess, repent, and move forward in obedience. When we understand that our right standing before God is based solely on God's grace, it encourages us to cling more closely to him.
If we also understand that the Spirit is growing into the fullness of the righteousness that has been given to us in Christ, it will keep us from believing Satan's lies. We are not right with God because of what we do. We are right with God because of what Jesus did. By his grace, we walk in line with that truth.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Quench Your Thirst
On the last day of the feast, the great day,
Jesus stood up and cried out,
"If anyone thirsts,
let him come to me and drink.
Whoever believes in me,
as the Scripture has said,
'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water'"
(John 7:37-38).
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Thoughts Concerning Noah's Ark
A children's song says, "Who built the Ark? Noah! Noah!, Who built the ark? Brother Noah built the ark." It seems the story of the ark has left an indelible mark on the Christian imagination (as well as in the larger world). It's not unusual to see toy arks filled pairs of animals poking their giant heads out of tiny windows.
Now a group is claiming to have found Noah's Ark (like other groups before), and a lot of Christians are excited. But skeptics are already disputing the claims. This discovery and its rejection have a lot of people up in arms. How should we respond? Should we be excited that the "Ark" was discovered? Should we be disappointed if it's a hoax?
Let me start by saying, I wasn't all that impressed by the news that Noah's Ark had been discovered. First of all, it takes more than a 4,800 year old wooden structure trapped in ice to "prove" it was the Ark. Second of all, we need to approach any so-called evidence with more scrutiny than anybody else. Our faith doesn't rest on evidence. Our faith rests in the God who has revealed himself through the Bible.
I believe that the story found in Genesis 6-9 actually reports historical fact. I believe that one man and seven members of his family were spared, by the grace of God, from His judicious wrath. I believe that the animals went into the ark, and that the world was covered with water. But I don't believe it because because there is a drawer, a room, or a warehouse full of artifacts that support my belief. I believe it because the inspired, infallible Word of God says it is true. God cannot lie.
Don't misunderstand me, I do not believe blindly. On the contrary, I, like the man in John 9, believe because once I was blind, but now I see (spiritually speaking). God found me when I wasn't looking for him. My dead heart was brought back to life, and faith sprang forth where there was once only doubt and disbelief. Although I still wrestle with doubt and fear, I am confident in God's Word.
His Word is truth, because He is Truth. The Word is sufficient, because through it the Spirit brings life as he applies to the human heart. Ephesians 2:1-3, tells us that we were once dead in our sins, but we have been made alive in Christ. My faith, for it is mine, was a grace gift from God and I did not create it, nor do I sustain it. God works faith, in and through me, by the indwelling presence of the Spirit.
Applying these principles to the current news stories surrounding Noah's Ark, I have no fears. It would be cool if they found the ark, but it would "prove" anything to the skeptics. For that matter, it would prove anything to believers. It would simple confirm yet another aspect of the Bible's trustworthiness.
Put your unwavering trust in the Word of God, and then demand that any so-called evidences put forth to prove (or disprove) the Bible be put to the test. And not just any test, but the most rigorous tests available. Make sure they are backed up by independent sources. Call for peer review, and multiple examinations. Then and only then, give them some attention. But remember, your faith will not be built by artifacts, rather it is built by reading, hearing, and obeying the Word of God.
Have they found the ark? Maybe, but probably not. Does that mean there wasn't an ark? No, definitely not. Will the ever find the ark (for real)? Only God knows. Can we really (really) trust his Word? YES! Without a doubt and without hesitation. The most important thing we can do is look to the One whom the ark foreshadowed, Jesus. Then like Noah coming into the ark, we must come to Christ in faith and flee the wrath that is coming.
Now a group is claiming to have found Noah's Ark (like other groups before), and a lot of Christians are excited. But skeptics are already disputing the claims. This discovery and its rejection have a lot of people up in arms. How should we respond? Should we be excited that the "Ark" was discovered? Should we be disappointed if it's a hoax?
Let me start by saying, I wasn't all that impressed by the news that Noah's Ark had been discovered. First of all, it takes more than a 4,800 year old wooden structure trapped in ice to "prove" it was the Ark. Second of all, we need to approach any so-called evidence with more scrutiny than anybody else. Our faith doesn't rest on evidence. Our faith rests in the God who has revealed himself through the Bible.
I believe that the story found in Genesis 6-9 actually reports historical fact. I believe that one man and seven members of his family were spared, by the grace of God, from His judicious wrath. I believe that the animals went into the ark, and that the world was covered with water. But I don't believe it because because there is a drawer, a room, or a warehouse full of artifacts that support my belief. I believe it because the inspired, infallible Word of God says it is true. God cannot lie.
Don't misunderstand me, I do not believe blindly. On the contrary, I, like the man in John 9, believe because once I was blind, but now I see (spiritually speaking). God found me when I wasn't looking for him. My dead heart was brought back to life, and faith sprang forth where there was once only doubt and disbelief. Although I still wrestle with doubt and fear, I am confident in God's Word.
His Word is truth, because He is Truth. The Word is sufficient, because through it the Spirit brings life as he applies to the human heart. Ephesians 2:1-3, tells us that we were once dead in our sins, but we have been made alive in Christ. My faith, for it is mine, was a grace gift from God and I did not create it, nor do I sustain it. God works faith, in and through me, by the indwelling presence of the Spirit.
Applying these principles to the current news stories surrounding Noah's Ark, I have no fears. It would be cool if they found the ark, but it would "prove" anything to the skeptics. For that matter, it would prove anything to believers. It would simple confirm yet another aspect of the Bible's trustworthiness.
Put your unwavering trust in the Word of God, and then demand that any so-called evidences put forth to prove (or disprove) the Bible be put to the test. And not just any test, but the most rigorous tests available. Make sure they are backed up by independent sources. Call for peer review, and multiple examinations. Then and only then, give them some attention. But remember, your faith will not be built by artifacts, rather it is built by reading, hearing, and obeying the Word of God.
Have they found the ark? Maybe, but probably not. Does that mean there wasn't an ark? No, definitely not. Will the ever find the ark (for real)? Only God knows. Can we really (really) trust his Word? YES! Without a doubt and without hesitation. The most important thing we can do is look to the One whom the ark foreshadowed, Jesus. Then like Noah coming into the ark, we must come to Christ in faith and flee the wrath that is coming.
Monday, November 9, 2009
A Leap of Faith
This article was originally published here, on August 28, 2009.
Many struggle with the idea of taking a leap of faith. They assume that taking a leap of faith is the same as taking a leap in the dark. However, nothing could be farther from the truth. Faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (see Heb. 11:1). Faith does not exist without cause.
There are many evidences that could be given that would demonstrate the reality of God. However, these evidences are never accepted as definitive by skeptical minds. There is an agenda to the doubt--truth suppression (see Rom. 1:18-20). They don't want to take a leap of faith, because it will be a leap into the light, and they love the darkness (see John 3:19).
Taking a leap of faith requires repentance and trust. It requires that we truly believe that Christ died in our place, was pierced for our transgressions, paid our sin debt, was buried and was raised again to life on the third day. It requires that we have a holy hatred toward sin, because the Spirit brought into our consciousness, through conviction, God's hatred toward sin and the pending righteous judgment that we face.
I used to believe having "faith" was the same thing as having an opinion, but now I know that isn't the case. As a professing atheist, I was arrested by the gospel. The Spirit brought conviction of sin into my heart. I knew that I had offended a holy and righteous God, and I trembled at that reality. The Spirit also brought a hope to life in me, even in the midst of that conviction, that through Jesus' death and resurrection I could be forgiven of sin and be welcomed into the family of God.
I felt like I was caught between a rock and a hard place. I loved my sin: the sin which was destroying me, the sin which had made me by nature an object of wrath, sin which had separated me from my Creator in this life and the sin that would condemn me in the next. Yet, I needed to be cleansed, to be forgiven. Hope called me to take a leap of faith. By the grace of God, I leaped into the light. Have you taken a leap of faith, yet?
Many struggle with the idea of taking a leap of faith. They assume that taking a leap of faith is the same as taking a leap in the dark. However, nothing could be farther from the truth. Faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (see Heb. 11:1). Faith does not exist without cause.There are many evidences that could be given that would demonstrate the reality of God. However, these evidences are never accepted as definitive by skeptical minds. There is an agenda to the doubt--truth suppression (see Rom. 1:18-20). They don't want to take a leap of faith, because it will be a leap into the light, and they love the darkness (see John 3:19).
Taking a leap of faith requires repentance and trust. It requires that we truly believe that Christ died in our place, was pierced for our transgressions, paid our sin debt, was buried and was raised again to life on the third day. It requires that we have a holy hatred toward sin, because the Spirit brought into our consciousness, through conviction, God's hatred toward sin and the pending righteous judgment that we face.
I used to believe having "faith" was the same thing as having an opinion, but now I know that isn't the case. As a professing atheist, I was arrested by the gospel. The Spirit brought conviction of sin into my heart. I knew that I had offended a holy and righteous God, and I trembled at that reality. The Spirit also brought a hope to life in me, even in the midst of that conviction, that through Jesus' death and resurrection I could be forgiven of sin and be welcomed into the family of God.
I felt like I was caught between a rock and a hard place. I loved my sin: the sin which was destroying me, the sin which had made me by nature an object of wrath, sin which had separated me from my Creator in this life and the sin that would condemn me in the next. Yet, I needed to be cleansed, to be forgiven. Hope called me to take a leap of faith. By the grace of God, I leaped into the light. Have you taken a leap of faith, yet?
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Count the Cost
This article was originally published here, on July 23, 2009.
"Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?" (Luke 15:27-28).
Jesus' words should give us pause. We should allow them to sink in and affect our hearts. The call to Christian discipleship is the call to bear a cross and follow Jesus. Thus, our evangelism should reflect this reality. Instead of calling people to make a "decision" for Jesus or to invite Jesus "into their heart," we need to call them to take up their cross and walk as Jesus walked.
It should not surprise us when people "decide" to trust Jesus. It probably shouldn't thrill us either. Jesus warned that there would be many who hear the gospel and receive it with joy, but whose response would not true faith and repentance (see Matt 13:1-23 and Mark 4:1-20). What should thrill us is when a sinner repents and turns to Jesus. It should thrill us when the fruit of their lives is not merely verbal expressions of faith, but faithful obedience that perseveres through trial and tribulation. For it is at the repentance of sinners that heaven rejoices, not at the decisions of men (see Luke 15:7, 10,). Repentance is a change of mind. Even while Jesus urged people toward faith and repentance, he encouraged them to think about the implications. Starting the journey of faith avails us little, if our faith is does not make it to the end.
Jesus asks, "Who does not sit down and figure out if they have the ability to pay for a tower they wish to build before they begin the project?" If they start, without careful thought and planning, and fail to finish they will become a laughing stock. Likewise, the person who "professes" Jesus, but does not continue to follow him will also become an object of ridicule. Do you remember the day that you turned from your sin and placed your faith in the crucified, risen, and ascended Savior, Jesus? Looking back can you see it was like taking up a cross? Have you followed Jesus since that day? I'm not asking you if you are still in church, nor am I asking if you still "believe" in Jesus, even the demons believe in Jesus. I'm asking if you are walking in humble faithful obedience, by the grace of God and for his glory? Are you a different person than you were back then? Can you see the fruit of Christ in your life (see Gal. 5:22-23; 2 Pet 1:3-11)?
"Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?" (Luke 15:27-28).
Jesus' words should give us pause. We should allow them to sink in and affect our hearts. The call to Christian discipleship is the call to bear a cross and follow Jesus. Thus, our evangelism should reflect this reality. Instead of calling people to make a "decision" for Jesus or to invite Jesus "into their heart," we need to call them to take up their cross and walk as Jesus walked.
It should not surprise us when people "decide" to trust Jesus. It probably shouldn't thrill us either. Jesus warned that there would be many who hear the gospel and receive it with joy, but whose response would not true faith and repentance (see Matt 13:1-23 and Mark 4:1-20). What should thrill us is when a sinner repents and turns to Jesus. It should thrill us when the fruit of their lives is not merely verbal expressions of faith, but faithful obedience that perseveres through trial and tribulation. For it is at the repentance of sinners that heaven rejoices, not at the decisions of men (see Luke 15:7, 10,). Repentance is a change of mind. Even while Jesus urged people toward faith and repentance, he encouraged them to think about the implications. Starting the journey of faith avails us little, if our faith is does not make it to the end.
Jesus asks, "Who does not sit down and figure out if they have the ability to pay for a tower they wish to build before they begin the project?" If they start, without careful thought and planning, and fail to finish they will become a laughing stock. Likewise, the person who "professes" Jesus, but does not continue to follow him will also become an object of ridicule. Do you remember the day that you turned from your sin and placed your faith in the crucified, risen, and ascended Savior, Jesus? Looking back can you see it was like taking up a cross? Have you followed Jesus since that day? I'm not asking you if you are still in church, nor am I asking if you still "believe" in Jesus, even the demons believe in Jesus. I'm asking if you are walking in humble faithful obedience, by the grace of God and for his glory? Are you a different person than you were back then? Can you see the fruit of Christ in your life (see Gal. 5:22-23; 2 Pet 1:3-11)?
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Faith Vs. Presumption
"David therefore sought God on behalf of the child. And David fasted and went in and lay all night on the ground" (2 Sam. 12:16, ESV; see 2 Sam. 12:15-23).This passage comes as a result of one of the saddest events in all Scripture. David has taken his friend's wife as a mistress and conceived a child. When his attempts to cover up his sin fails, David has his friend Uriah killed. After the Lord confronts David's sin through the prophet Nathan, David is informed that the child will die. Following the birth and subsequent illness of his child, we find David on his face before the Lord.
The "elders of his household" continue to go into where David was trying to persuade David to get up and eat. They mistake his prayerfulness for grief. While he may have been motivated by grief, over his sin and its impact on his young child, David is still praying. All of the elders' attempts to "comfort" David fall on deaf ears. He will not leave his post. His actions cause great confusion when word reaches him of his son's death. He gets up and eats.
When questioned about this turn of behavior, David responds, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept, for I said, 'Who knows whether the LORD will be gracious to me, that the child may live?' But now he is dead. Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me" (2 Sam. 12:22-23, ESV).
David seems to understand something we often miss. David understands that you cannot presume upon the grace of God. Prayer is a request for mercy. Mercy is a something that cannot be merited. If it is owed, it is not mercy. Somehow, we have come to believe that the act of praying obligates God to answer in the manner and time in which we specify. David isn't afraid to seek God's mercy. He is just aware that if God chooses to answer it will be mercy. It is God's right to say, "No." It doesn't make him less merciful. The fact that we can approach him in prayer at all is an act of great mercy. As is the reality that he delights in answering his peoples prayer.
Prayer is not a right, it is a privilege. God invites us to approach him in prayer--to know him intimately. He allows us to participate in his work, through intercession, but he isn't dependent upon us. He has appointed prayer as a vehicle through which he moves in his people and throughout the world. For this reason, prayerlessness is sinful. However, as we pray we must not presume on God.
There is a vast difference between praying in faith and praying in presumption. Prayer in faith always exalts in God, even when it doesn't receive the answer it seeks. Presumptuous prayer leads to bitterness at God's "failure" to respond. Those who pray in faith submit themselves (and their prayers) to the Lord. If he chooses to not to answer, they trust his wisdom and grace. Those who pray presumptuously desire God's submission to their request. David exemplifies praying in faith by stating, "Who knows whether the Lord will be gracious to me, that the child might live?"
Some might object to speaking of prayer in this way. They might conclude that this kind of prayer lacks confidence. However, that is not the case. I believe that David was fully confident is God's ability to hear his prayer and heal his child, but he did not assume that what he knew of God's character and ability meant that God must act in a certain way as dictated by his own prayer. David was confident, but not demanding. Like David, we must pray in full confidence of God's ability and character, while avoiding presuming on his grace.
Friday, August 28, 2009
A Leap of Faith
Many struggle with the idea of taking a leap of faith. They assume that taking a leap of faith is the same as taking a leap in the dark. However, nothing could be farther from the truth. While faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (see Heb. 11:1), it does not exist without cause.There are many evidences that could be given that would demonstrate the reality of God. However, these evidences are never accepted as definitive by skeptical minds. There is an agenda to the doubt--truth suppression (see Rom. 1:18-20). They don't want to take a leap of faith, because it will be a leap into the light, and they love the darkness (see John 3:19).
Taking a leap of faith requires repentance and trust. It requires that we truly believe that Christ died in our place, was pierced for our transgressions, paid our sin debt, was buried and was raised again to life on the third day. It requires that we have a holy hatred toward sin, because the Spirit brought into our consciousness, through conviction, God's hatred toward sin and the pending righteous judgment that we face.
I used to believe having "faith" was the same thing as having an opinion, but now I know that isn't the case. As a professing atheist, I was arrested by the gospel. The Spirit brought to pass a conviction of sin in my heart. I knew that I had offended a holy and righteous God, and I trembled at that reality. The Spirit also brought a hope to life, even in the midst of that conviction. The hope brought to life in me was simply that, through Jesus' death and resurrection, I could find forgiveness of sin and welcome in the family of God.
It felt like I was caught between a rock and a hard place. I loved my sin: the sin which was destroying me, the sin which had made me by nature an object of wrath, the sin which had separated me from my Creator in this life and would condemn me in the next. Yet, I needed to be cleansed, to be forgiven. With hope awakened, I was called to take a leap of faith. And by the grace of God, I leaped into the light. Have you taken a leap of faith?
Monday, August 17, 2009
Too Little, Too Late
"Martha said to Jesus, 'Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not died'" (John 11:21).
The implication of Martha's words is that Jesus' arrival was too little, too late. The tiny word "if" presents a big challenge. If only Jesus would have arrived sooner. If only he cared enough to come right away. If only he would have commanded the sickness to leave. How could he not rescue Lazarus? Where was he? Why didn't he come sooner? Martha must have wrestled with these questions when the Lord tarried and Lazarus died. I have heard it said that people in the first century believed the soul lingered around for three days after death. John states that Lazarus had been dead four. It would seem that all hope of rescue was gone. Case closed.
However, John informs us that Jesus tarried in order to display the glory of God in the situation. When Jesus is confronted by Martha, she seems torn between confusion and hope. Her statement, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not died," is followed by the statement, "But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give to you" (John 11:22). She is confused by Jesus' lateness, but knows that he is able to do something (although the rest of this passage makes it unlikely that she thought Jesus could bring her brother back to life at this time, see John 11:23-24).
Jesus tells her that her brother will "rise again" (John 11:23). Martha doesn't see this as an immediate event. She responds, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day" (John 11:24). Again, in light of her initial statement, she doesn't appear to be comforted by this. The resurrection seems so far away in light of her pain and grief. She wants relief now (and of course at the resurrection). It seems that even the resurrection is "too late" to be of any use.
Listen to Jesus' response. Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26). His verbs are all present tense. He says, "I am the resurrection and the life," not "I will be the resurrection and the life." He says, "whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live," not "whoever believed in me, though he has died, he will live." The use of the present tense expresses the present reality of the resurrection. Those who walk with Christ in faith, shall always walk with him. They have been buried with Christ in death and raised to walk in newness of life.
Jesus also stresses faith. He asks, "Do you believe this?" In other words, he wants to know if Martha is trusting him to raise the dead to life at the end of time. Does she believe he can get the job done then? He seeks to draw her toward trust. The implication of Jesus' statement and question is that if he can do something about Lazarus' problem in the long run (through the resurrection), then he can be trusted to do something about Martha's grief in the short run. If she can trust him to raise the dead on the last day, why is she giving into despair at this moment?
Martha responds in faith, "Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world" (John 11:27). In this confession, Martha is expressing her trust in Jesus to do something now (you are the Christ), since he will do something at the resurrection (who is coming into the world). Although she can't imagine what Jesus is going to do, she believes he can do it.
Many of us will be in situations where it feels like God's presence comes too late. It may even feel like what he is doing is too little. Most of us have been trained well enough not to voice these opinions, but God hears our hearts. This passage teaches us that God's response to our situations is never too little, nor too late. His timing is not ours, nor are his ways, our ways. If we can't trust him to work in our situations now to bring about in eternal purposes, how can we say we trust him to raise us out of the dust on the last day? The key is trusting, even when we can't see what he has in store around the corner. He has shown us how it will all turn out for those trust him. He has demonstrated his faithfulness throughout history. Caught between the past faithfulness of God and his future faithfulness, we must trust him to remain faithful in the present. We must remember what he has told us, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Rom. 8:28).
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