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?

Dying Daily

This article was originally published here, on August 11, 2009.

"Then he said to them all: "If any one would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me'" (Luke 9:38, NIV).

In a paradoxical way, the gospel call to life is a call to death. Those who follow Jesus in faithful obedience must live a life of self-denial and daily death. The call to take up the cross is a call to take up one's death. As Paul states, "Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry" (Col. 3:5). Thus, taking up our cross is the process of killing off our "earthly nature."

Paul reminds us, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Gal. 2:20). In this verse, Paul is demonstrating the union between Jesus and his followers. They are capable of putting to death the desires of the flesh, because Jesus was put to death on their behalves.

The call to take up the cross is not only possible, it is expected. Taking up the cross is a daily task. Think of our earthly desires like a fire that has been burned down to embers. The coals might only be giving off smoke or heat, they may be orange, red or gray, but they are only embers and not a flame. We might douse those embers with water or attempt to stomp them out, and assume our job is done. However, a shift in the wind or a new source of fuel turn the embers into a raging fire. We must battle our earthly desires everyday, because we don't know when they are going to flare up.

The call to daily death is a reminder that we live in constant struggle with the world, the flesh, and the devil. Today's victory might be used to bring tomorrow's defeat. If we are not constantly on the watch, we are sure to caught off guard by our attackers. Daily our fleshly desires wage war against the Spirit, and the Spirit wages war against our desires. Daily we must go to the cross and remind ourselves of who we are. We are no longer the slaves of sin, but the children of God. Christ's cross makes our cross bearable. Until that last day, when Jesus comes in all his glory and raises us incorruptible, we must bear our cross daily.

The Only Way to Find Yourself

This article was originally published here, on August 8, 2009 under the title "There Is Only One Way to Find Yourself."

"Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it" (Matt 10:39).

This verse follows two warnings. The first one said, "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matt. 10:28). The second warning states, "Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves sons or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take us his cross and follow me is not worthy of me" (Matt. 10:37-38).  Through these warnings, Jesus has set the stage for this statement.  His statement is thought provoking.  How can one find his life only to lose it?  And how can they lose their life, yet find it?

The statement presses us to consider the two types of life one can have.  One type of life, initially looks rewarding, but really brings about death.  As Jesus said, "Whoever finds his life will lose it."  The "life" spoken of here reflects a life without Christ.  This life is one that is not built on Christ's teaching.  In one sense, it is a kingdom without suffering--no cross, no Christ, and no hope.  The other type of life, initially looks like death, but really brings about great reward.  Jesus states, "And whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." This life is a life centered on Jesus and his teachings.  In a sense, it is a kingdom which is entered into through suffering--a cross with Christ and abounding hope.

Jesus' statement forces us into a decision.  One must choose between the two lives: a kingdom without suffering up front, but total destruction in the end, or a kingdom with suffering up front, but joy in the end. 
Imagine a situation where a person has to choose between a walk with Christ or their family. Let's say a son comes home and tells his father, "Dad, I trusted Christ today." The father responds, "I won't have that junk in my house. You can leave Jesus or leave here." Now, the son has a dilemma. Does he find his life through rejecting Jesus and thus forfeit eternal life?  Or does he lose the life he has known by choosing to walk with Jesus and thus finding eternal life? In other words, will he keep his family life in tact while forfeiting his soul or will keep his soul in tact by forfeiting his family? Jesus said that the only way to truly live is to love him more than anyone, to take up our cross (an instrument of suffering and death), and follow him.

Let's apply this to the modern search for self. People seem to be misplacing themselves a lot. Most of us know someone who has been or is now trying to "find" themselves. Most typically, these searches are not conducted in a prayer closet with the Scriptures open and a heart crying out to God. Most commonly, these searches are made by overhauling one's life without consulting the Lord. Consider the "midlife crisis" that many go through. Some men when they get middle-aged (45-60, as if most men live to be 90-120), get a fast car, a new (often younger) woman, change jobs, take up crazy hobbies, buy a wig, or any number of things. Many feel as they got lost in the shuffle during the ordinary business of life. Life passed them by, and they want to live a little. They want to find their life.  However, when we pursue life this way it never find it.

As we age (and hopefully mature), there is a nagging sense that we were made for more which continues to grow. The closer we get, chronologically, to eternity the more eternity tries to break into our consciousness.  Jesus warns us not to pursue happiness, success, fulfillment, purpose, or anything else apart from pursing him. The instant we start pursuing something other than Jesus, we stop pursuing Jesus. The pursuit of Jesus comes with a cost. Some of our hopes and dreams will die on the cross we are called to bear. We will be asked to follow Jesus in to some very painful places. We will face humiliation and rejection, difficulty and tribulation. These things are merely obstacles on the path of life.

The disciples questioned Jesus about this exchange. Peter said, "See, we have left everything and followed you" (Mark 10:28). Jesus replied, "Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and the for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, house and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life" (Mark 10:29-30).  Are you trying to find your life? Let me suggest you begin by humbly submitting yourself to God, taking up your cross, and following Jesus. At first it may feel like you are losing "your life," but in reality, you will be finding your life in the process.

Praying Through the Psalms

This article was originally published here, on August 1, 2009.


"Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies" (Ps. 141:3-4).

The Psalms are an excellent training ground to learn how to pray. They cover the whole range of human emotion and experience. They reflect earnest trust in a Sovereign who is ever-present and willing to hear the prayers of his people. They reflect an honest and often raw expression of the soul onto the Lord. The Psalms cover morning, evening, midday, midnight, and every time in between.

In the Psalms, we meet worshipers without masks. They don't hide behind religious language. They don't beat around the bush. They present their adoration or supplication unto the Lord, trusting him to answer. We get to eavesdrop on their private prayers which we know to be pleasing to the Lord because he inspired and preserved them in the Scriptures. Thus, through the Psalms we learn something of approaching God in prayer in the fear of the Lord.

As we read through the Psalms, we can offer up prayers based on the passage we are reading. If we were to pray Psalm 141:3-4 it might be something like this: "Yes, Lord, please guard my mouth so I might only speak what is pleasing to you. And please keep me from giving my life over to evil influences. Amen." Or we might just pray it word for word.

This kind of praying can be very beneficial. First, it informs our prayers, by giving specific things to pray for. Next, it focuses our prayers because the Scripture is guiding our thoughts. Finally, it conforms us to the will of God. As we pray Scripture, we are praying God's mind after him. It teaches us to think his thoughts (as far as we are able). I encourage to begin meditating on and praying through the Psalms.

Another Facet of Fearing the Lord

This article was originally published here, on July 28, 2009.
"Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity" (Prov. 28:14, ESV).

The fear of the Lord is a subject I return to frequently. I desire a better understanding. I know that fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Prov. 1:7) and wisdom (Prov. 9:10). I also know that it is hatred of evil (Prov. 8:13). It prolongs the life of those who have it (Prov. 10:27). Now this passages examines another facet of the fear of the Lord.  Blessings and calamity are contrasted in this verse. The one who "fears the Lord is blessed". The one who "hardens his heart" will fall into calamity. The implication is that the one who hardens his heart does not fear the Lord. Therefore, fear of the Lord must also include a submissive attitude toward the Lord's leadership.

When we speak of the fear of the Lord, we are speaking of active obedience to the revealed will of God. It is following his commandments and heeding his voice. This proverb warns that calamity is the end result of rebellion to the will of God. The expression "will fall into calamity" depicts one stumbling, unaware, into a trap. It is an event that happens quickly with potentially dangerous outcomes.

To walk without the fear of the Lord is to court trouble. The image that comes to mind is someone standing in a shed full of dynamite with a lit match. Actually, I am picturing Yosemite Sam, striking a match only to find himself surrounded by explosives, and quickly finding one more reason to hate that rabbit (Bugs Bunny). Hardening the heart is trouble with a capital "T." A person never knows what will happen if they harden their heart. Will they have another chance to repent? Who knows. Will the Lord harden their heart like he did Pharaoh's heart?

Actually, Pharaoh is a good case study for a life lived without fear of the Lord. Moses reports Pharaoh's initial response to God's command to free the Israelites. He states, "But Pharaoh said, 'Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, and more over I will not let Israel go'" (Exod. 5:2, ESV). The following chapter reveal the devastation brought upon Pharaoh and Egypt by his hard heart. He loses his son, his slaves, and most of his army.

However, blessing rests on those who fear the Lord. That is not to say that those who fear the Lord never face trouble. Even David, a man after God's own heart, faced trouble and trials. What it means is that the troubles will not ultimately overcome those who fear the Lord. They will be preserved from the greatest trouble facing man, the Day of the Lord. It also means that when we walk in the fear of the Lord we avoid many of the foolish choices that lead to heartache and regret. Fear of the Lord teaches us a sort of sanctified common sense. We become less gullible and more discerning. We think before we act, and pray for the Lord to guide our thinking. Do you want to avoid trouble? Fear the Lord. Do you want to be blessed? Then fear the Lord.

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)?

Confessing Our Sins to One Another

This article was originally published here, on July 21, 2009.

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working" (James 5:16).

This Scripture was driven home recently when I witnessed people in a twelve step program confessing their "regrets" to individuals they had hurt. I had heard that many recovery programs had a step in which the person who was recovering had to make amends to the people they had injured, but I hadn't actually witnessed it.

I have to admit it was very moving to witness people confessing their sins to one another. Although they spoke of regrets, it was really sin they were naming. It was refreshing to see people deal with their sin in an unmasked, frank, and humble manner. Yet, I kept wondering why we don't see this kind of honesty in the church. Why are we ashamed to confess our sins before each other in the church? Why is it a rare thing to witness brokenness and repentance within the corporate meetings?

The Church was created to be a hospital for the spiritually sick, not a resort for the spiritually fit. Granted, as we grow and mature in Christ we also grow in spiritual health, but we are still sinners saved by grace. We still struggle with sin throughout our lives on earth. We are all in continual need of repentance and faith. The kind of thing I witness should be practiced frequently within the context of the church community. However, we are so disconnected from each other that we often mention "unspoken" prayer requests. We play "catch-up" on Sunday mornings, because we haven't seen each other throughout the week. And more often than not we play the part of one who is unbroken, when deep down inside we are shattered and yearning for healing.

In reality, the church is full of fractured people. They have been broken by sin, yet they are not discarded. Christ, the Master Craftsman, is transforming them into a masterpiece designed to showcase his grace and glory. As with any construction project, it is easy to find debris in our lives during the ongoing work of sanctification. Life in community is messy. You have to live with (and love) people who are broken and sinful, just like you. Their sins may be different, but the cure is the same: Jesus.

James tells us we should be the kind of people who confess our sins to one another and pray for one another. Sin flourishes in the darkness. Confession brings it into the light. By sharing it with another we enable them to aid us in bearing the load through the process of intercession. James states, "The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working." Repentant confession opens the door to healing.

There is some good in recovery programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, but they were not created by God to liberate the captives. The captives can only be liberated by Christ.  The Church has been given the task of aiding the liberation of captives through the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The root problem for every addict (and all humanity) is sin. The only lasting solution is the mighty Savior, Jesus. It's time for the church to step up and be what it was created to be. It's time for us redeemed sinners to start shining the light of the gospel far and wide, so that unredeemed sinners can find salvation. Then maybe, by God's grace, our churches will become the kind of place where people say, "Hello, my name is Randy and I'm a sinner saved by grace. Have you found freedom in Christ, yet?"

Beware the Lion

This article was originally published here, on July 14, 2009.


"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5: 8).

Do you believe this verse? Is it possible that there is an actual devil? And that he prowls around seeking someone to devour? Really? I mean, do you really believe that there are actual forces of darkness that are seeking to destroy mankind in general, and God's people in particular? Before you answer, let's look at Peter's analogy.

Peter tells us that the devil is like a lion on the hunt. I have watched numerous nature documentaries on predators. When lions hunt, they often attack the weaker animal, and they go about their attack by separating their target from the herd. Once cut off from the protection of the the herd, the animal becomes essentially helpless.

Watching these documentaries can be very helpful. The camera crew watches the herds to see how they react to the approaching danger. Often, the older battle-wise leaders in the herd, graze a little, watch a little. Their ears twitch, this way and that, in order to pick up any hint of danger's approach. Younger, inexperienced members of the herd, play and explore with little observation. Most of the time when cameras capture the lions bursting out of the tall grass into open, the observant older animals have already began to sprint away. Younger animals seem to be notified of danger, not by a sound, but by the mad rush of the herd away from their position. And many times, it is too late; the lions prevail.

I doubt Peter ever saw a documentary on lions, but he had probably witnessed a lion attack. Obviously, Peter was aware of the cunning tactics that lions use.  Most likely, his audience was familiar with these tactics as well.  This familiarity is precisely why he uses the image he does.  Peter explains that Satan "prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." The lion's roar is meant to throw the victim into panic, to scatter its wits, to terrorize and disorient. Likewise, Satan seeks to make a lot of noise. He likes to hit us from all sides. He wants us to feel like destruction is inevitable. He needs us to believe that he will prevail.

Now back to the initial question: do you believe 1 Peter 5:8? Is the devil (and his demons) really out there trying to destroy us? Let me answer the second question: yes, there is a real devil (with demons) who is seeking to devour whomever he can. But, do you believe that?

The only way to know if you truly believe that the devil is out there waiting to pounce is by the way you live. Are you sober-minded and watchful? Are you like the older animals in the herd who graze a little and watch a little? Or are you busy playing and exploring? Are your ears ever vigilant, straining for the first sounds of warning? If our life isn't marked by sober-mindedness and watchfulness, then it doesn't matter what we say we believe. If someone says, "Yes, I believe 1 Peter 5:8," but fails to be watchful and sober-minded, then they too will be devoured.

We have forgotten our Master's instruction, "Pray then like this . . . And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil" (Matt. 6:9, 13). We have also forgotten his warning, "Watch and pray that you enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matt. 26:41). I believe, in part, that Peter calls us to sober-mindedness and watchfulness, because he would spare us the shame of failing our Lord. A shame he knew too well, and probably never totally overcame. The lion is out there, keep up your guard and be ready to call to your protector, that Great Shepherd of our soul, Lord Jesus.

Everyone Is Free to Wear Sunscreen

This article was originally published here, on July 14, 2009.

A good definition of stubbornness is nursing a wicked sunburn when an ample supply of sunscreen was within reach and a willing assistant was nearby. I hate sunburns, although apparently not as much as I hate sunscreen. After I get sunburned, I spend the evening fight the chills. So why do I hesitate when it comes to sunscreen? I wish I knew.

They say, "You live and you learn." I am not entirely sure I agree. Most live, a few learn. I fear that is why so many of us end up repeating our mistakes. We hate the consequences of our choices, but we rarely make the adjustments that would prevent those consequences. We choose the path of least resistance, not because it will make us happy, but because we are comfortable with the routine. There are times we do things we know will cost us, because we know the outcome. There is no guess work, and a known consequence is better than an unknown reward.

My back and shoulders are ablaze with regret. I have vowed to never forgo sunscreen again. Yet, if I were a wagering man, I would bet I'll be in this situation again. Maybe not tomorrow, or next week, but soon the burning will stop, the skin will peal away, and time will make the sunburn a distant memory. When the heat of the consequence dies down, the temptation to avoid sunscreen will come back.

Sin is dreadfully cunning that way. Once it is tripped you up, it points out the folly of your choice to increase your sense of guilt and shame. In this way, it hopes to dishearten you so that you will think you can no longer approach God. Sin wants you to think you can't choose another path. It wants you to think, even in your regret, that your destined to remain unchanged and unchangeable. Then after your conscience has been appeased and you no longer feel the burden of your guilt, sin returns to tell you that this time it will be different, this time the consequences won't be so bad, or this time it won't end in heartbreak. But it's a lie.

The only way to overcome an unpleasant consequence is to change your way of thinking and your way of doing. The only way to make those changes is by turning away from sin and trusting Christ to transform you through his grace. When we place our trust in Jesus, who died for our sin and rose again on the third day, he gives us a new nature. He has absorbed the consequences of our sin upon the cross, and extended to us his righteousness. We can stop listening to the lie, and be transformed by the Truth. For this reason, the Scriptures continually call us to put off stubbornness and heed the Word of the Lord. Whatever your struggle, turn to Christ in repentance and faith, and ask him to deliver you. You will find he is an able and willing Redeemer. And don't forget to wear sunscreen.


Editor's Note: I made it through the rest of summer without getting another bad sunburn.  The picture is of a mule, which has the reputation of being stubborn.  I couldn't find a picture of a sunburn or lobster, so I hope you enjoy the mule. Photo by: Einar Faanes

Satanic Service

This article was originally published here, on July 1, 2009.

"But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, 'Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind of the things of God, but on the things of man'" (Mark 8:33).

Jesus had just asked his disciples, "Who do you say that I am?" Peter, prompted by the Holy Spirit, gave the right answer, "You are the Christ." Following Peter's proclamation, Jesus began to teach very plainly about the rejection, trial, crucifixion and resurrection that was soon to follow. Jesus didn't follow his usual pattern of speaking in parables, but spoke very directly to his disciples. It is probable that Jesus spoke so plainly on the suffering that he would soon face in order to correct the misunderstandings his disciples had about his ministry. Peter's response to the teaching certainly expressed a deep misunderstanding, at least on Peter's part. He dared to rebuke Jesus, as if he knew something Jesus didn't.

As Jesus turned and looked at the rest of the disciples, he knew he must crush this spirit of mutiny immediately. Peter could not be allowed to make such ignorant and arrogant statements, nor could any of the others. Peter's rebuke did not express grief over the teaching that the Christ must suffer, die, and be raised again to life. It expressed an outright rejection of the revealed will of God. In his outright rejection of God's will he placed himself firmly in the service of Satan.

Jesus responded to Peter with a rebuke of his own, "Get behind me, Satan!". He didn't say, "Get behind me, Simon." He didn't say, "Get behind me, Peter." He didn't say, "Oh, you of little faith, why do you doubt?" He calls Peter, "Satan." No one could have missed the point. I believe that Peter received these words like a blow to the abdomen. Peter, by rejecting Jesus' teaching was standing in the place of Satan. He was Satan's errand boy sent to lead Jesus astray, but Jesus didn't take the bait.

Jesus went on to explain what exactly, in Peter's rebuke, reflected the Serpent. He states, "You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of man." Thus, when we stand in opposition to God's will, we stand in cooperation with Satan's will. When we are not serving God through humble obedient faith, then we are serving Satan with arrogant disobedient doubt. Jesus could not let this gangrene flourish among his disciples, he had to cut it out and he did so quickly. There is no doubt that Peter was wounded by these words, but they are the very words that ushered him back into a place of obedience. The wounds of a friend are trustworthy.

We would do well to realize that disobedience to the Word of God places us in the service of Satan. All of us have made mistakes comparable to Peter's. The remedy rests in placing our mind on the things of God. We are called to meditate on them, to memorize them, to speak them, to read them, to study them, to obey them, and to trust them. We must be careful to step out in faith and obedience. We must avoid giving ourselves over to the service of the devil. Avoiding this takes courage and hard work. It takes watchfulness and diligence. May we continually set guard over our hearts and set our minds on the things of God.

Death of Hero

This article was originally published here, on June 17, 2009.

Alonzo Vernon Butler
June 16, 1947-June 16, 2009

How would Metropolis pick up the pieces with Superman gone? How could Gotham rest easy at night with Batman lying entombed? It’s difficult to cope with the death of a hero. It doesn’t matter if that hero leaps off the pages of a book or comic book, grips us with a life changing idea, or touches us in more ordinary ways; the loss can be very painful.


I lost my Uncle last night. He passed away after a battle with cancer. My Uncle Lonnie was a unique person. It would be difficult to explain the way I felt about my uncle. It always seemed that we had a special bond. In childhood, he was my idol, along side of the Hulk and Spiderman. He was to me then what Chuck Norris has become to a generation–the very definition of tough. I just knew he was invincible. His toughness was so deeply etched in the recesses of my mind that I secretly believed he would beat this cancer. Theologically, I knew that even Uncle Lonnie couldn’t beat death, but the larger than life image of him still resides in my heart to this day.

When Christ transformed my life I had to lay my idols down, but the deep and abiding love that I have had for Uncle Lonnie since childhood has never waned. His life had its share of mistakes. He battled demons throughout most of his adult life, but he always treated me with love and kindness. I have prayed for him persistently since I surrendered my life to Jesus, because I wanted him to know Jesus, too.

After we found out for sure that he had cancer, I called him. Much to my surprise and joy he shared with me that he had trusted in Christ. He wanted me to know that he had come to understand and believe the gospel. The knowledge that I will see him again has eased the burden of grief, but not removed it. A hero has departed from my life. However, I rest easy because I have another hero who has defeated death itself. His name is Jesus and because of him I can say, “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” (1 Cor. 15:55). I’m going to miss Uncle Lonnie, but only until we see each other around the throne of God.

Giving

This article was originally published here, on May 21, 2009. 

"Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered" (Prov. 21:13).

Stinginess reveals a heart that does not understand grace. The Scripture repeatedly warns against having the power to do good and failing to do it. Stinginess reflects the heart of Satan through the exaltation of self. The stingy person is concerned with their own preservation (and often comfort). More often than not, the stingy heart believes it is appropriate to lavish itself in luxury.

Wealth is never given to us in order to give us security. There is no security in money. If you don't believe me, ask yourself: Why are there banks where we lock away our money? Why do we buy insurance? Why are banks insured? How come people with lots of money never say, "Enough," and stop taking money for what they do?

The Lord grants wealth to us so that we can imitate his grace. Imagine that a homeless man approaches you and asks you for money. How do you respond? Many of us are tempted to rationalize ourselves out of giving him money, because he might misappropriate it. Some might conclude that he'll just buy booze with it, and with that justification they ignore the request. In failing to assist this homeless man, they are failing to display God's grace.

God lavishes his grace upon us, and if we are honest, we will acknowledge that we misappropriate it at times. For this reason, the apostles warn us not to use the grace of God a cloak for sin. Where sin abounds, grace abounds more, but this doesn't mean we can sin freely. No, the Lord, when he redeems us, gives us a new nature--one that wars against sin (after all sin killed our King). God's  free grace is abounding--greater in size and strength when compared with our sin.

Thus, the cheerful giver reflects God's own gracious nature. God doesn't give based on merit, or none of us beggars would get a penny. He gives because it pleases him to do so. Thus, the cheerful giver, the one who gives out of the pleasure of the act, imitates God. The stingy person can never (without heavenly intervention) understand the joy of giving. They see it as extravagant and wasteful. They always assume that others don't need it or deserve it.

Have stated that giving reflects the graciousness of God, let me return to the example of a begging homeless man. Should we give him money? It is difficult to say. Sometimes, wisdom dictates that we make purchases on his behalf, rather than give him cash. For example, let's say he is standing outside of a liquor store with an  empty bottle in his hand, and reeking of cheap whiskey. It might be wise to buy his lunch at a nearby restaurant, but it would be foolish to fail to hear his request.

If you have a few bucks, say a few ones or a five dollar bill, then why not give it to him? Some might say, "But what if he buys booze or drugs with it?" True, he might do that, but he may also buy hamburgers for himself and a friend or two. When you give him the money, give him the gospel and supply both of his needs at once. Realize that your giving to the Lord when you give to the poor. Trust the Lord to lead this person to use the gift wisely, but realize they, like you, are human. And remember, God gave you grace when you asked, even though he new you would fail time and again. Most importantly, remember we are only righteous in the sight of God because of what Jesus did, and none of us were worthy of such a gift. I think it is wise to give responsibly, but we must give. To fail to do so reflects the serpent and not the Savior. Find your joy, not in your possessions, but in the meeting of others' needs.

Lessons from Laughter

This article was originally published here, on May 2, 2009.

I truly believe that one of the greatest sounds in the world is the sound of children laughing. It seems so free and uninhibited. A child is free to allow his or her joy bubble up to the top, and spill out in rivers of laughter. They want to laugh. Someone in the room laughs and they want to join in the festivities. Someone laughs on t.v. and the quickly imitate what they here.

Laughter allows us to lighten up for a moment. It helps us to put life into perspective. Children need adults who can model the ability to laugh at themselves. Too often, we take ourselves too seriously. Children don't usually take themselves too seriously. They tend to enjoy the moment for all it's worth.

I am learning a lot about life from my little girl. Her infectious laugh, her clever smile, and her playful spirit are helping me to remember the greatest treasures in life can't be bought. I am also learning that the most important moment in my life isn't the next one, it's this one. Children seem to be able to live in the moment and adjust to the situation. They aren't hung up on the future.

I'm not saying we should give any thought to the future. However, most of our planning for the future borders on obsession. We spend so much time and effort saving for tomorrow, we fail to enjoy today. We don't even know if we will get tomorrow. How sad to come to an end of a day and realize that it possessed no joy.

When You Don't Know What to Pray

This article was originally published here, on April 20, 2009.

How do we pray in a situation when we don't know what we should pray for? First, we need to realize that we don't know all the facts in any situation. We cannot see the ends of any situation. Only God knows what his purposed ends are, and what all the facts are in every situation. Understanding this does not limit how we pray, but frees us to pray to the One who knows everything.

Second, we need to understand that it is perfectly acceptable to God for us to pray for what we desire. If we have a sick loved one whom we desperately desire to get well, God doesn't mind us asking him to make them well. The asking doesn't mean that it is God's will to heal our sick loved one, but he invites us to ask of him.

Third, when we ask him for our hearts desire, we need to humbly submit to his will. Our prayer might look something like this: "Father, I really desire to see my loved one healed, but your will be done." We need to understand the God may have a purpose beyond our understanding. The difficulty surrounding our loved ones (and us) could be a test or trial or chastisement. The difficulties in life are designed to instruct us, to train us, to shape us, and to focus our attention on God. When we submit our prayers to God's will, we acknowledge his wise and sovereign providence.

Finally, we pray continually. We don't stop until the Lord brings about an answer. Sometimes, it is a no--like when David fasted and prayed for his infant son who died. Sometimes, it is a yes. However, we must wait and pray until we know.  To paraphrase James, "You don't have because you didn't ask; and sometimes when you ask, you ask for the wrong things to satisfy your flesh, so you still don't have. Ask and ask wisely, and you will have."

Doctrinal Precision

This article was originally published here, on February 6, 2009.

Have you ever needed a dohicky? How about a thingamajig? Often when we are doing work that falls outside of our normal daily routine, terminology gets loose. You may not know or care what that tool that will aid you in loosening that bolt is called. You just want to get the bolt loosened. However, you would not want a brain surgeon working on you to turn to his assistant and say, "Could you hand me that thingamajig? No, not that dohicky, that one!" Repairing a toilet, while important, is not the same as brain surgery. Brain surgery requires precision. and brain surgery, while important, is not as important as leading others to Christ.

As Ezekiel was set apart as a watchman for Israel (Ezek. 33:1-9), so we, too, have been set apart to warn our generation of the coming judgment and to call them to turn to our Lord Jesus Christ. Ezekiel was instructed to sound the trumpet (warn of impending judgment) so the sinner could know to repent, but if he failed to warn the people God would hold him accountable. If we fail to call sinners to repentance, we will be held accountable, also.

If our call is not clear and certain, it will not be heard. Paul instructs the Corinthians, "Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?" (1 Cor. 14:8). Paul's is saying that if we speak in a way that cannot be understood (in this context, by a foreign language) it does not do anybody any good. Applied to sharing the message of Christ, if we fail to clearly define our terms biblically and precisely our message will be misunderstood. Numerous cults and false religions use the same terminology as Evangelical Christianity: saved, faith, grace, Jesus Christ, the Spirit, God, prayer, etc. However, they purposely use these terms to confuse those who do not know the difference.

Paul instructed Timothy, "Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save yourself and your hearers" (1 Tim. 4:16). Doctrine matters. It mattered to Christ and it mattered to the apostles. It should matter to us. We lack the authority to define ourselves. God defines us as he reveals his will and ways to us through his Word. The Church did not establish the Word, but by the Word, God established the Church. If we do not truly understand God, as he reveals himself in the Scriptures, then we are not truly worshiping God. If our Jesus is not the Jesus of Scripture, then he is not Jesus. We must be precise in our understanding of the teachings in the Bible.

Misunderstanding the person and work of Jesus has major consequences. It is like the difference between a being locked in a burning building by the arsonist and being rescued from the building by a firefighter. An unbiblical Jesus may be able to offer ethical advice, but he cannot redeem the sinner from hell. An unbiblical Jesus may be able to inspire or motivate, by he cannot rescue the sinner from death. Imprecision in our doctrines of God, Jesus, and salvation and lack of clarity in the gospel message leads to eternal death. If a do-yourself plumber messes up, he can always call in a real plumber and a cleanup crew. If a surgeon messes up, people are either maimed or die. If we mess up the gospel and doctrine, people die, in their sin, and go to hell.

The grave consequences for wrong theology should move us to be diligent students of the Word. We should seek to understand it correctly and to present it carefully to others. We should be careful that they understand what we are saying and careful that they understand that it applies to them. Friends, heed Paul's admonition to watch your life and doctrine closely.

What Is a Disciple?

This article was originally published here, on February 22, 2009.

And Jesus came and said to them, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matt. 28:18-20).

This passage is often called the "Great Commission." It sets the parameters of the Church's mission. The Church exists to glorify God. How does it accomplish that? The Church glorifies God by making disciples through the proclamation of the gospel. What does a "disciple" look like? Matthew 28:18-20 does not explain what a disciple is, only how we make one. However, Jesus said,"If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23). Thus, a disciple is defined as one who dies to self and imitates Jesus. Paul expresses it well in Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

Jesus again states, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:26-27). Here Jesus is using hyperbole, an overstatement to catch people's attention. He isn't actually calling us to "hate" anyone. He wants us to understand that our love for him should make all of our other love to seem like hate. The greatness of our love for Jesus should make our other loves look small in comparison.

A disciple is someone who has turned away from sin (repentance) and who has placed their trust in Jesus' person and work for salvation (faith). Thus, having turned from sin to Jesus Christ, they must learn how to be like Jesus. This fact brings us back to the Great Commission. Now that they have been converted, the believer should be baptized and taught to obey everything Jesus commanded.

How did the early recipients of this commission put it into action? In other words, what did a "disciple" look like in the early church? Luke gives us an excellent picture in Acts 2:42, "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." This description of the early church gives us some important features we should have in our own situations. First, there was a commitment to the teaching of the apostles. That teaching would include everything that is now included in the New Testament. Second, there was a commitment to fellowship. The term fellowship means that they existed in community; that they held things in common. Third, they devoted themselves to the breaking of bread. The early church often ate together daily and would celebrate the Lord's Supper after these meals. Finally, they were devoted to prayer.

Bringing all this together, let me venture a definition: A disciple is one who has abandoned the way of sin, has trusted in Christ's work and person, and who has devoted themselves to following Christ. By faith they have denied themselves, took up their cross, and followed Christ. Their life is characterized by a commitment to sound doctrine, a commitment to a mutually edifying life in the community of faith, a commitment to right worship, and a commitment to prayer. I realize this definition is incomplete, but its a good start. What do you think a disciple should look like?

I Am Beginning to Love Mondays

This article was originally published here, on February 17, 2009.

Mondays are fast becoming my busiest days, and my favorite. I get to spend Mondays with Sophia. The time of father and daughter bonding is punctuated with periods of intense exercise (since Sophia has discovered running), problem solving (what exactly does this "uh, uh" mean), and laughter. Then there is nap time. Which gives Sophia the opportunity to recharge, while daddy tries to get as much done as quickly and quietly as possible. Its amazing how much can be squeezed into two hours. Then the nap ends and all the tidying up that has been done disappears under a shower of toys and laughter. There are diapers to change, boo-boos to kiss, and meals to prepare. There is always something going on. And somewhere in the mix, I couldn't help but realize how truly blessed I am.

I bear the title Papa with chest-pounding pride, but also with humility. I realize that my fatherhood will impact my child's understanding of the Fatherhood of God. If I am too indulgent, then she will assume the God is indulgent. If I am too harsh, she will assume God is harsh. I pray for wisdom often and guidance. I am fully aware that she will see through any attempt to teach a truth not lived. I prayer is that I will faithfully point her to the perfect Father in heaven, in both my actions and in my teaching. The truth that drives me is that He must increase and I must decrease. Lord, help me to be the Father I should be.

Editor's Note: My lovely Sophia now calls me "Daddy," instead of "Papa." She stresses the last syllable in a way that makes my heart melt.  Mondays and Tuesdays are very busy days, but they are also joyful days.

Daddy Duty

This article was originally published here, on January 17, 2009.

Yesterday, I had daddy duty. We don't call it babysitting when mommy has to be out and daddy cares for Ms. Sophia. First of all, she's as much mine as she is Delia's. Second of all, the Lord has given me the responsibility, as the head of the household, of shepherding Sophia . Third of all, it was an opportunity to spend time playing with my little girl. She had daddy running here and running there. She likes it when I chase her. When I catch her, I give her kisses on the cheek and she giggles. Although it requires a lot of energy to chase her, I can't call it work. Her giggle just lifts my spirits.

It's hard to believe that we have been home over a week. The days are passing so fast. Sometimes I fear I am going to blink, and it will be her wedding day or college graduation and then she'll be moving to the next phase of life. Don't get me wrong, it isn't that I don't won't her to grow up. I just don't want to miss the important stuff. I am enjoying the days that God has given us, and I pray for many more. There is just so much happening that it would be easy to miss it or to miss out. Being a father is a calling that God has placed in my life. I realize that all my ability to minister is to be measured, in part, by my successes as a husband and father (see 1 Tim 3:4-5; Titus 1:6). I am prayerfully seeking to become the man God has called me to be.

Not all daddy duty is fun. Sometimes, you have to change really dirty diapers. Sometimes, your precious children get hurt. Sometimes, your precious children rebel against you. Sometimes, you have to discipline them. Parenting is hard work, when its done right. It requires diligence and vigilance; it requires a lifetime of love and care. There will be successes and failures, hardship and heartache, joy and laughter. The enormity of the task forces us to our knees in prayer, crying out to our heavenly Father for guidance, protection, assistance, forgiveness, and endurance. Our great hope is not in our ability to be good parents, but in the grace of God that enables us to be godly parents.

Editor's Note: I pull daddy duty every Monday and Tuesday, and I love it.  For nearly eleven months, I have had the privilege of spending time with Sophia.  She is constantly making us smile and laugh.  Even at two, she has a tremendous sense of humor.  Each day of daddy duty is different, but I am grateful for each one.

Big Shoes to Fill

This article was originally published here, on December 29, 2008.

This afternoon Sophia began to play with a pair of my shoes. I made some remark about having "big shoes to fill." But, even as I said it my mind began to think about the shoes each father must fill. I know that the type of father I am will determine how Sophia (and future children) will understand the fatherhood of God. I think that is what Paul meant when he warned, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Eph 6:4, ESV). And again he says, "Fathers, do not provoke you children, lest they become discouraged' (Col. 3:21, ESV). Just as the husband and wife relationship was created to reflect the relationship between Christ and his Bride, the Church, so parenting was also meant to reflect God's glory.

When a father fails to discipline his child, he provokes that child to anger, because the child feels as if no one cares and nothing matters. When a father harshly or rashly punishes a child, he provokes the child to anger, because the child feels that nothing he does is good enough or that there is no justice in the world. These are, of course, extreme images, but they help us to understand how the actions of a father can leave a negative imprint on the term father. If your father was a godly man, chances are that you are comforted by the Fatherhood of God. If your father was a tyrant, the Fatherhood of God may be difficult for you to comprehend in a positive way.

Let me state clearly that no human father can fully reflect the perfect love of our heavenly Father. We are all sinners who have fallen short of God's glory, but we are called as Christ's followers to work in his strength to restore that image. The good news is that the Holy Spirit is bringing about the image of Christ in us through the process of sanctification. So how do father's "fill the shoe's" of the heavenly Father? Just as Sophia couldn't fill my shoes with her tiny feet,earthly fathers cannot fill the heavenly Father's "shoes." But, we can follow in his footsteps, and seek to imitate him.

First, we must love unconditionally. It is a love that chooses to love its object, no matter the result (Rom. 5:6-8, 1 John 4:7-21; 1 Cor. 13:4-8). Secondly, our love must also be sacrificial. Not only must we be willing to love our children unconditionally, we must love them no matter the cost. Next, We must discipline our children (Heb. 12:5-11; Prov. 13:24, 19:18, 22:15, 23:13-14, 29:17). Discipline is not the same as punishment. Biblical discipline is about correction. Next, we must discern what is best for our children and safeguard it at all cost. Finally, we must remember our limitations.

We are not God the Father, but we are fathers who seek to imitate the Father. Even as we seek to imitate the Father, we must remember several important facts. First, the Father loves our children more than we ever could, and he loves them perfectly. Second, fatherhood was not meant to be practiced apart from God's gracious assistance (the Fall brought the possibility of becoming a father without knowing the Father, and thus brought all sorts of negative ideas into the concept of fatherhood). Next, we need to remember the Father in heaven is perfect, we are not.

We will often have to repent of our sinful attitudes about and behaviors towards our children. Yes, we will have to confess our sins to our children (I don't mean tell them everything you ever did wrong, but address ways that you have sinned against them).  For example, let's say you have had a bad day at work, you come home and the house is a mess. Your son was supposed to clean it up, but has been playing Nintendo Wii all day. When you see the mess you explode. By explode, I mean you throw a little temper tantrum and verbally lash out at your child. At this point, your action becomes sin, because you acted in anger, not for the correction of your child. So you would need to say something like, "Daddy shouldn't have yelled at you that way. There will still be disciplined for not doing you choirs, but it was wrong of me to act that way. Can you forgive me?"

As a Christian, God has called you to pray for and to teach your children. You should pray for them before they are born (or adopted). You should pray for them to come to salvation, for them to use their gifts and talents in service of the Lord, and for them to make wise choices in life. You should teach them about our holy God. You should teach them about sin, the sinfulness of humanity, and their need of salvation. You should teach them that Jesus is God's answer for sin, and that only Jesus can save us. You should teach them that God commands them to turn from their sin and to trust in Jesus. You should teach them that God calls them to a life of dedicated service. You should teach them to memorize Scripture, confessions of faith, creeds, catechisms, and hymns. You should teach them how all of Scripture points to Jesus. You should teach them how to witness to others, how to carefully think through their faith, and to be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks (1 Pet. 3:15). Even after all the prayers and training, you must trust the Lord to bring about his will. Ultimately, he knows all ends, not us. We just have to trust his providence.

In God's eyes, success is not measured by the number of  "World's Greatest Dad" mugs in the cupboard. It isn't measured by the responses of our children. It's measured in faithfulness to his Word. If we did our best, in faith, through his strength to rear our children in accordance to his Word, that is success. I believe that if we are faithful, more often than not, the fruit will bear out in our children, but that is not always the case. As I watch my sleeping daughter, I am reminded of what Henry Blackaby said, "Disobedience is costly." I realize that her eyes are watching me, her ears are tuned in to hear the words between the words, the wheels of her mind are analyzing everything I say and do. She is measuring the difference between what I say I believe and how I live. If she finds a vast difference between the two she may reject Christ, having concluded that Jesus did not make a difference in me, what could he do for her. But if she finds no difference, or finds repentance in the face of error, and if she finds my profession and life to be in harmony, it may be that she may see that she, too, needs this Jesus.

It is wise not to try to fill our heavenly Father's shoes; they would never fit. Instead, we must faithfully point our children to the one Father who is perfect. We do this through loving them unconditionally, sacrificially, through biblical discipline, by praying for them, and teaching them the gospel. The gospel reminds us all of our limitations, and points to the one who can save us. Pray for me, that I would be a faithful father. Pray that God would help me walk in integrity, humility, and faith. And pray, that in his gracious timing, he would open my little girl's eyes to his fatherhood, and draw her to himself through our precious Lord Jesus.

Editor's Note: Sophia still likes to put on her daddy's shoes from time to time, and every time I see her I realize that I need to walk carefully, because she is following in my footsteps.

Fear of Man

This article was originally published here, on November 21, 2008.

"The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe" (Prov. 29:25, ESV).

Do you worry about what other people think about you? Do you feel the crushing pressure to think, act or appear a certain way? Are you afraid to relax? Afraid to let people see the real you? Solomon tells us that this way of thinking is a snare. This way of thinking holds us prisoner to others opinions and strips us of safety. When we live in the fear of man we cannot please God. How different would the ministries of Jeremiah and Ezekiel, or any of the prophets for that matter, have been if they had let their fear determine what they would say and do? Instead of yielding to their fear of man, they trusted in the Lord.

Did trusting the Lord keep them safe? Yes and No. It did not keep them safe in the sense that everything was perfect. They faced ridicule, abuse, rejection, hardship, and so on. Trusting in the Lord did not spare them from the wrath of man, but it did keep them safe from the wrath of God. Their obedience was pleasing to the Lord and he preserved them through all of their difficulties and continued to care for them.

Speaking of the fear of man, Jesus said, "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matt. 10:28, ESV). Jesus stresses the futility of fearing man by expressing the limitations that man has. Man can only kill the body. In one sense, the killing of the body is a temporal thing. It does not determine where a person will exist after death, only that they are no longer alive. However, God not only has the power to terminate life, but the authority to determine where a person exists after that termination. We creatures are finite by nature, and thus our actions against each other have only finite consequences. God is eternal, thus our actions against him have eternal consequences.

The fear of the Lord has to do with hating evil (Prov. 8:13), it is the beginning of wisdom (Prov. 1:7) and the key to insight (Prov. 9:10). The fear of the Lord is not fear in the sense of terror. The Lord is not like some masked gunman breaking into our life or some crazed axe-wielding maniac. The fear of the Lord is a humble submission to his sovereignty that produces a life of trusting obedience and dependency. It is a life that looks to him to see what should be done next, because he alone possesses wisdom. As we follow in his footsteps, he leads us safely in the paths that please him most, draws us to himself, and sustains us by his power. Don't give in to the fear of man; it is a trap that will draw you away from God and away from safety. Look to the Lord who lovingly sustains you, and rest in him.