Proverbs 11:23 - My desire

Proverbs 11:23 

The desire of the righteous is only good.

But the expectation of the wicked is wrath. 

Message: My desire

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: The contrast between the righteous and the wicked continue. As I am reading and thinking about the righteous person I see a person that is God-fearing and seeks to do good throughout life. This is a person that wants to live in accordance to God's will. It is a life that is lived reflecting God's character and reflecting His commandments. It is knowing what to do and then also doing it. As I read and study the Bible and read of the different individuals lives, the common thread are those that trust God, believe God is real, understand that God must be in our lives and that now for us living on this earth, we are to walk in the way of God and the way His Son Jesus prescribed. At this time of Proverbs, the name of Jesus was not clear, but His mission and the providence of covering sin was known. Sin was a reality and in the life of those with God sin can only be cleansed by way of blood. And yet our lives must be lived in the best way possible. A Christian wants therefore to align their life with God's purposes which will then result in outcomes that are beneficial and constructive. 

Thus, at this time, the mission is the same in the life of the righteous person during Old Testament times or the time of Solomon (930 BC) as it is in the time of Christ (1,000 years later) with the mission about living in a righteous way, trusting God, walking in His ways, looking to him for guidance and direction, trusting in Him. The transaction of covering sin was found in the temple, annually, through an offering offered by the priest. This was needed annually. But later when Jesus came sin would be covered once for all.

For this lesson and this Proverb today the focus seems to be on desire. The righteous are those that do good. The God-fearing person is good as God's commandments and ways are being followed. But the focus here for me is primarily on desire. The righteous person following God has a desire to pursue righteous living and in return good. Desire is my inner longing. It is my aspiration. 

The Hebrew word here is transliterated from the Hebrew into the English letters as ta'avah. This Hebrew words derived from the word avah which means to incline toward. Desire is appetite. It is longing, craving. Thus, desire can be that which we seek. As such, to bridge these ideas is to say that in life I am to crave or desire or incline myself towards and seek after righteous ways. I have a choice each day in my activities.  

The contrasting word here is the expectation of the wicked. It might seems harsh but the wicked are those that are not of God. It seems like today in our world, we typecast most people as being good and among all of those good people, some are really spiritual, some have a belief in God, but some are not believing in God but still wanting to live good lives. It is only a small minority in life that we would call wicked and yet it seems possible in life or in the eyes of God that the number of people that belong in the wicked realm is perhaps much more. The people that really are defining each day and decision about God and choosing things that please him in their actions at all times seems to be less and less. I mean, I suppose it is hard to say but just listening to all of these people in the court room and hearing their excuses and desire to get out of service, just seems like many of those are not going to church. In other words, the wicked here are probably made up of a lot of people we would not necessarily brand as wicked. But in God's eyes they are wicked. 

Do the wicked expect wrath? Is that what this verse is saying? Other translations have the word as hope instead of expectation. Maybe this is a simple contrast in those following God have good and those not following God will receive wrath. This is the outcome we believe are for those that do not follow God. I have read in other places that the only way a person comes to the knowledge of God is by God's mercy. So there are many that do not receive that mercy and clearly are in the way of the wicked. 

This week I have been serving on a jury and it has been unsettling at times to see people shuffle in out a court and see the outcomes that are resulting in their decisions. It is hard to see that way of life in many ways. I am wondering if they have these desires for good or for wrath. There is always hope people can turn and be reformed. But for many simply being caught in that situation is not a good sign. In life, we are not simply to seek after that which is good. The writer here never seems to be saying only this, rather the writer is extolling the person that is righteous or seeking after the ways of God. This is the person we are to emulate. We first must be this person and then seek after good and not evil. Don't return to the old man that is spoken of in 2 Corinthians 5:17. 

Prayer: God, you are to be praised. And you are to be feared. Your ways are not man's ways. I pray and hope that man would embrace You as God and Lord. It is hard to see and watch other outcomes in life. Of those that are choosing not You. Many are trying to live their life without you at the forefront. You are not simply a force, but life in abundance. You are the fullness of all. Help me to help others know you and see you as Lord. Show me how I can move myself towards those that do not know You or need to know You. And as I live, let my desire then always be towards that which is good. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Genesis 3 - Tragedy and God

Genesis 3

When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loin coverings. (verse 6-7)

Message: Tragedy and God

Time: Genesis is the first book and Moses is credited as authoring. The book spans 2400 years of time. It was originally written in Hebrew.

What the Lord is Saying: Mining dam shocks a community killing 19. Events like this having us questioning evil, wondering about God. The Bible reminds us of (1) the reality of the moral and spiritual fall of man; (2) the holy and just character of God; and (3) the suffering of Christ Jesus for us. Apart from grace, all of fallen humanity is subject to the just punishment of God, which includes temporal evils (like disasters) and spiritual afflictions, both in this world and the world to come. 

Genesis says, "Cursed is the ground because of you" in Genesis 3:17. So natural disasters as well as issues due to human error occur because God has cursed the ground because of the sin of men and women. These events are to wake us up to reality of who God is, bring us to repentance, restrain us from sin, focusing us not on the things of life, but on the ways of God and the things to come. 

These bad events that occur in our lives is the product of our collective apathy toward God. Thus, it is Christ who God has sent to enter our lives to end the suffering of man from sin, forgiving us and bringing answers to us and comfort in these hard times. He works through people and gives us comfort and hope for tomorrow. 

I speak to a lot of people online that bring up these issues. People sometimes don't believe in God because their immediate needs are not met. Sometimes it is hard for me to reconcile those that have versus those that don't have. But the reality is God has mercy on us, offering forgiveness to those that profess their faith in Him. Not all people will. Some will choose their own way. For some this seems random, but I think to God there is a real determined focus on who receives the blessing. Thus, we seek God in the difficulties, thank Him for His grace, look forward with hope for the future and comfort one another in the losses. 

Prayer: O God, I am so thankful for your grace that I don't deserve, but I so desperately need. Thank you for the peace that you give and the good life I have. I don't understand but keep giving me peace and increase your peace to others. Help them trust in You. It is hard to hear how many reject you because of a tough life. Keep me grounded in You, trusting in You and living for You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Proverbs 13:2 - Violent Words

Proverbs 13:2

From the fruit of a man's mouth he enjoys good,

But the desire of the treacherous is violence.

Message: Violent Words

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: Reading Tabletalk and the article "Violent Words" and the author translates this verse, "From the fruit of their lips people eat what is good, but the unfaithful desire violence." There is a contrast here between wise, helpful, kind, thoughtful words and words that destroy or tear down. 

In the heat of anger, how are we sometimes responding? In this moment, the person we are fighting with becomes a sort of enemy with our biting, sarcastic and vengeful words. It could be a friend, co-worker, or even spouse or parent. Often, through our words we want to inflict pain. It happens. Our sense of entitlement takes over. Our expectations are unmet. We feel wronged. 

As quickly as I run to anger, I need to quickly run to repenting, confessing to God first, and then to the other party, asking forgiveness and truly forgiving others. I admit I sort it out first in my mind and try to get past it. 

In these tense moments, I don't have to respond with sin. That sometimes is the hard part for me: how do I act differently? What should I have done instead? How do I take these wronged feelings and not respond with anger and being threatened. How do I pursue the offense without hurtful words? Not sure I know any other way to get it resolved. Sometimes at work I see often that what stirs me up and angers me rarely works out for me, reminding me that my many words of emotion didn't get me anywhere but disappointment and anger and mess up other relationships or other times of enjoyment. 

Prayer: Lord, I need help. I think of my son who struggles with this as well. As he approaches these scenario's which make him made how do we respond differently. How can we still get our concern out and yet not sin? Teach me to do it in love. Teach me to not be swept away by those feelings and still deal with the situation, but with love and hope, seeking you Lord with direction and guidance. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Samuel 12 - Hope for Israel

I Samuel 12

And Samuel said to the people, "Do not fear. You have committed all this evil, yet do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart." (verse 20)

Message: Hope for Israel

Time: This book is a biography of Samuel's life and career up to his death. It took place over a period of about 110 years, stretching from the closing days of the judges, when Samuel was born (ca. 1120 BC) through the death of Saul (1011 BC).

What the Lord is Saying: Saul is now most assuredly the king over Israel. Samuel was the last judge, but now Saul is their first king. He is the king the people wanted. In the last chapter he conquered the Ammonites in the area of Gad under the leadership of Nahash and despite some thinking he was not capable, he showed that he was capable. 

In I Samuel 12, Samuel offers a speech now - a sort of farewell address to the people. To Israel he says in verse 1 "I have listened to your voice....and have appointed a king over you." Samuel has done all that he can do in his life for the people of Israel: "I have walked before you from my youth even to this day (verse 2)." Samuel says he has taken no bribes but has walked with integrity (v. 3, 5) and the people of Israel agree (v. 4).  The Lord appoints leaders, starting with Moses and Aaron "who brought your fathers up from the land of Egypt (v. 6)." The Lord has acted righteously before you (v.7):

1. The people of Israel (under the name Jacob) went into Egypt and Moses/Aaron brought them out (v.8). 

2. But the people forgot the Lord and they ended up in the hands of the Philistines (v.9). 

3. And the people cried out to the Lord: We have sinned...We have forsaken...We have served other gods...Deliver us....We will serve Thee (v. 10). 

4. The Lord sent men to deliver you and delivered you from the hand of your enemies (v.11)

5. Finally, you wanted a king and the Lord provided you the king you wanted (v. 12-13). 

In verse 14, Samuel provides the concluding thought or command or promise to the people that is the same promise given in all generations: 

If you will fear the Lord and serve Him, and listen to His voice, and not rebel against the command of the Lord, then both you and all the king who reigns over you will follow the Lord your God (v. 14). 

This is what we need to do in life: follow the Lord your God (v. 14). Jesus proclaimed this to the disciples: "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men (Matthew 4:19)." 

Conversely though, "If you will not listen to the voice of the Lord, but rebel...then the hand of the Lord will be against you (verse 15)." The pattern or idea is simple. Follow, listen, obey and all will go well with you. As I read Proverbs this is the simple message - do good, not evil. We go to church every week basically hearing this same message - do good, not evil. With it holds a promise that we all need. We resist it. People say, "I don't want God's authority over me." People instead expect the worse. People have failed them so they judge God by what people have done. But God is faithful and merciful, but he has set in plan a motion of good for all, if they will seek it. 

The Lord will do "this great thing...before your eyes (verse 16)." 

Samuel mentions to them the evil they have done in asking for their king (v.17). He sends rain and thunder and the people feared (v. 18). Ask for the mercy of God by you act of selfishness (v. 19). But the people still have a chance so "serve the Lord with all your heart (verse 20)." If you turn aside, you will seek after futility "which can not profit or deliver" you. The things that are not of the Lord are not of profit. They will not deliver. Thus our problem, we seek after other things all of the time -- again it is simple - serve the Lord with all your heart. 

Verse 22 - "The Lord will not abandon His people...the Lord has been pleased to make you a people for Himself." Samuel states his responsibility in all of this - "to pray for you...and instruct you in the good and right way (verse 23)."

"Fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart (verse 24)." Do not act wickedly (verse 25). 

The message remains this simple always. This chapter is a great summary of God and the Christian life. Do good and serve the Lord. This chapter does not promise a life free of problems. It does say that going after ungodly things is futile and those things will not deliver you, but the reason we do what we do is to serve the Lord - to Fear the Lord - with all your heart. What do we get out of it? That we are the people of God. 

Don't listen to the lie that life is meant to satisfy yourself. Follow God. Simply follow the Lord and serve Him with all of your heart. 

Summary: Samuel gives a beautiful summary of our life - we are to serve the Lord with all of our heart. We are the people of God. 

Promise: Matthew Henry - "If God shall not rule us, yet he will judge us." 

Prayer: Lord, your message and your way is simple. We make it complicated and we have made it always complicated. You set over us all this bounty and then give us a command. We focus on what we cannot do (in eating from the tree) rather than seeing that you have provided all that we need and we need to simply serve you with all of our heart. But even when we choose our own way, you give us another chance. We are your people God and You want us. What the world offers God is futile and will not deliver. You deliver. Seek after You. Life is not easy though. And you are not promising an easy life, but a life of peace and contentment. I need to follow You. Thank you for the promise of Your word God. Thank you for the peace that is found in your word and this chapter which is a great chapter to begin this year with and doing - "serve you God will all of my heart." Keep directing me daily in what this means God. Keep directing me in what it means to serve You God. There is freedom in trusting You and serving You. Thank you God for this. Help me this year to keep my focus on this - on what you have provided. Place my focus always on this. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Proverbs 10:28 - Only Today

Proverbs 10:28

The hope of the righteous is gladness,

But the expectation of the wicked perishes.

Message: Only Today

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: Hope - righteous - glad vs expectation - wicked - perish. First thoughts -- hope is more of a sure thing than simply an expectation. Hope has more of a certainty about it while an expectation is less certain. Yet, overall I see again the natural comparison of the righteous and wicked person in this chapter that has been so prevalent throughout the chapter. The writer is extolling and raising up over and over the outcome of being a righteous person. It is a favorable position. Over and over the idea is to not only do the right thing, but be the right sort of person. To be righteous is not only to have high morals, but it is to live according to standards and the Christian is to live their life under the guidance of the Holy Spirit as He directs us daily to live in a way that honors God. 

The Contemporary English Version says there is no future for the wicked. I think that is the overriding point. The wicked person only has today. The righteous person has tomorrow and the day after. The atheist only has today while those that are walking with God have hope for tomorrow. 

One thing to think about here is the wicked person's future is futile because we live under the paradigm of righteousness and Godliness. Under that worldview, there is no hope for the wicked for they only have wrath to look forward to in the future. There is no happy after life. There is only separation from God in hell. To say that it perishes means it amounts to nothing. 

God also is preparing a place for us in the future (John 14:2-3) and so this is why our future has hope.

Prayer: O God, thank you for the future and for having my future in mind. I realize in this day and age, all the messages are only about today and making today priority one. Keep me attuned to Your message and Your word Lord in focusing on tomorrow and my future. Thank you for that peace and I pray more would understand and accept the peace that You have for them.  

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

John 14:11-14 - The Works We Will Do

John 14:11-14

11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves. 12 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father. 13 Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.

Message: The Works We Will Do

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."  

What the Lord is Saying: The words of Jesus continue in this passage. Jesus has been speaking to the disciples - namely taking questions from Peter, Thomas and Philip and continuing to give them a full picture or a full understanding of who He is. They know Him as Savior and Messiah and their Lord, but they continue to understand Him or are growing to understand Him as not only sent by God but containing the same essence of God. John, our writer in this passage gets this and understands this. And how great it is that I am understanding this as well. 

Jesus confirms in verse 11 the truth, "Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me." They are not the same person; distinct but they have the same attributes and essence. So, seeing Jesus is seeing the Father. All that the Father is can be had in Jesus. And Jesus must return to the Father as well. 

This idea of believing in Jesus has been a big idea for Jesus and one that He continually conveys. I remember in John 10:25-27 Jesus spoke of the Sheep that believe in Him and hear His voice. But Jesus also conveys to not only to believe in what He is saying, but believe also in what He has done: "otherwise believe because of the works themselves." Jesus has shown clearly in His gospels His work and what He has done. And yet the idea seems to have been clear in the gospels that seeing His miracles, while helpful, gave the people and disciples confirmation. It was His words and believng in Him and what He was saying that was perhaps most important. 

Now, the rest of this passage will speak of a further idea - from believing to working; from believing to doing. This seems to be the central idea of verse 12. But then in verse 13 and 14 it appears to go back to the work that Jesus will do when we ask - "believing." 

Verse 13 and 14 I think have always been somewhat puzzling verses to people. They represent verses that basically give a blank check it appears to God's provision. "Whatever you ask....I will do...ask me anything...I will do it." This is an interesting passage because it speaks of works we will do and works Jesus will do. Maybe what is clear is that works will be needed. But still this is a hard passage because people are people of need, people of want. And people of faith are dependent on God to provide. They recognize that things come from God. They find comfort in these words to ask whatever and yet people of need have asked God and have not received. And this remains a hard part of faith and not getting always what we ask. 

These words from Chapter 14 start off with the heading in my Open Bible as "Christ Comforts His Disciples." Amazing how much we need comfort. I was going through some books the other day, trying to figure out what I could get rid of and clear space in the garage I guess for other things. I saw a book that my mom had given Pamela and I at one time and written inside of it was words about my mom going through a difficult time and finding comfort with the words of that book and so passing it along to us. 

The disciples at this time are a little nervous. They want Jesus to stay close. They don't want to see him leave. They want to follow Him if He is leaving. They want to stay with Him. Jesus knows this can't happen immediately. Later, but not now. So Jesus speaks to them, offering them words of encouragement and comfort. Jesus wants His words to bring them comfort. There is comfort in knowing that while the disciples can't go with Jesus, Jesus is preparing a place for them. There is comfort in believing in Jesus that He is the only way to God. There is comfort in believing in Jesus that good works will follow. Maybe this won't always happen to us. But still there is comfort in these words, in the possibility and so we believe in Him, in Faith, we trust in Him. We have hope and it seems to be more and more that this is what we need in life, hope. And when we reach a place of no more hope, we move or change places. I had a worker yesterday leave to take a different job. His remark to me was there was no more hope in staying. 

I think of Mr. Talbot and seeing him on Sunday and visiting with him and in that time maybe he gets comfort and I can share with him and know him through that time. 

Summary: Jesus tells his disciples once again the importance of believing in Him and through His words He brings them comfort, letting them know he will work as they ask Him.  

Promise: Jesus continues to work in and through us. 

Prayer: O God, these words that I read, they are hard to digest at times. Maybe because I want the words to mean something that frees me from all trouble. I am normal. I want to be free from all bad and only for there to be good. But in You I find comfort and peace. Comfort from this hard world. And hope for tomorrow. I need those things. Lord, continue to help me show others this. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

TABLETALK - May 2018

I continue in my daily studies to be guided by Tabletalk magazine. 2018 was a study on the Gospel of John and its straightforward presentation of the person and work of Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, and other doctrines. 

• January 2018 (July 4, 2023 - July 23, 2023) John 1:1-2:22 - The preexistence of Christ, the ministry of John the Baptist and the person of Christ. 
• February 2018 (July 24, 2023 - August 10, 2023) John 2:23 - 3:36 - Regeneration and our need to believe in Christ for Salvation
• March 2018 (August 13, 2023 - September 30, 2023) John 4:1 - 5:29 - Christ is the incarnate Son of God
• April 2018 (October 1, 2023 - November 6, 2023) John 5:30 - John 7:36 - Jesus is as necessary to our souls as food is to our body; Jesus teaches in the temple during the Feast of Booths
• May 2018 (November 7, 2023 - December 22, 2023) John 7:37 - John 9:41 - Jesus experiences opposition and there is a sin-motivated resistance people have toward being enslaved to sin.

John 7 continued

Rivers of Living Water (John 7:37-39) - Jesus is the source of living water, providing life to those who believe in Him and the waters will flow in the form of blessings to many people, continually. 

Jesus Brings Division (John 7:40-46) - Jesus's coming is causing division among people following and observing him over who He really is: only a prophet or also a Messiah. And officers are not seizing Him. 

The Prophet from Galilee (John 7:47-52) - The Pharisees believe the multitudes have been misled by Jesus and later state the same of one of their own - Nicodemus. Some will not believe no matter what Jesus says. 

John 8

The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 7:53-8:6) - A woman is brought by Jesus officials which Jesus is teaching at the temple, stating the woman has been caught in adultery and Jesus is asked to determine her fate. 

Showing Mercy and Upholding the Law (John 8:7-11) - In response to the accusation brought by officials of a woman in adultery, Jesus tells them to examine themselves first before throwing stones. 

The Light of the World (John 8:12-20) - Jesus proclaims Himself as the Light of the World based upon two witnesses, Him and the Father. 

How Not to Die in Sin (John 8:21-30) - Jesus says he will be going away and to be with him one must believe in Him or die in their sin. He is I am and is sent by the Father. 

The Mark of True Discipleship (John 8:31-32) - Being a disciple is abiding in Jesus' words, to know the truth so that I will be free. 

Children of Abraham (John 8:33-40) - Everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. To be free like Abraham is to be a servant of Christ. 

Children of the Devil (John 8:41-47) - If we are not of the Father and if we are not believing in Jesus, then that person is of the devil and abides by the devil's ways.

The One Who Seeks Christ's Glory (John 8:48-55) - Jesus is all about the Father's glory, though the Jews believe he has an evil spirit. 

The Incarnate I Am (John 8:56-59) - Jesus culminates His deity now by announcing that before Abraham was born, I am, igniting the leaders to stone him for blasphemy. 

John 9

The Man Born Blind (John 9:1-7) - Jesus is the light and in our world today and reveals that a man born blind is that way to bring glory to God. Jesus later heals this man.

Division Among the Pharisees (John 9:8-23) - After the healing of the beggar of his blindness, the Jews and people in Jerusalem are questioning the healing. 

Opening Blind Eyes (John 9:24-33) - The former blind man believes Jesus is from God and bears testimony of this that he can now see. The Pharisees don't believe. 

Spiritual Blindness (John 9:34-41) - Jesus is the Son of Man and comes to give people the opportunity to either choose Him or go their own way. 

Total Depravity Lessons - These are 7 lessons based upon an RC Sproul series that speak of the condition of people apart from God and they will remain in this state. The only hope is that God awakens them, out of His sovereign will and they respond to Him in faith. 

When Hope is No More - Buck Parsons (editor of Tabletalk and Senior Pastor of Saint Andrew's Chapel in Sanford, Florida) - Disappointment is prevalent in life - people disappoint us and we disappoint them; and things disappoint us, but we need to be careful if we wrap up our hopes and dreams in ourselves. People only focused on self will eventually be unbalanced and hopeless, as this is how God designed it. But becoming hopeless about self and instead hoping in God is a sovereign act of God. Hope is given by God's grace, sustained by His Spirt for our earthly and eternal good and for God's glory. It is not wishful thinking. We hope because the Holy Spirit overflows this condition in us (Rom. 5:5). Beyond the grave, hope will disappear as hope is only for present day. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus. 

The Reality of Disappointment - Jeremy Pierre (Professor of biblical counseling and department chair at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also a pastor at Clifton Baptist Church in Louisville, Ky.)  - Disappointment is rampant and often increases with age. Life is in itself a disappointment as we often learn to echo the words of Alexander Pope, "Blessed is the man who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed." [Notice Pope was 4'6" and died at age 56.] In living for an ideal situation in life, most likely we will be disappointed. We dream of better days. Even when our expectation is missed, we have to hope that one day it will bloom. We live in reality that fails to match the Eden in our minds. Expectations are part hope, part prediction of what we expect reality to be. We need to acknowledge that disappoints are not unique to us but hit everyone (thus the importance of community and coming together). Being broken is the world we live in. If we only expect the ideal, we will be disappointed by the actual. We must to a trust in God, and move outside of ourselves, to get beyond the broken and yet remain thankful for anything He has provided. God tells us this world is broken but also that it shouldn't be and in the process we are more sharp for the future world he is preparing for us to reside in. Disappointments should result in lamenting (complaining to God honestly) and then seeking (preparing for a better day). An unbroken world awaits us. 

Failure and Disappointment in Scripture - David P. Murray (Senior pastor of First Byron Christian Reformed Church in Byron Center, Mich. and author) - Would anyone come to a conference or read a book on "Failure and Disappointment?" We live in a "success culture" that idolizes victory and fulfillment - for good reason - it feels good and brings joy. By all means aim high, but recognize no oe escapes failure and disappointment. We should plan on it and prepare for it with a view to profit from it. Failure is a lack of success in doing something. Disappointment is the sense of sadness and frustration that results from failure, either our own or others or both. [Sometimes I wonder if many in our society struggle with how to deal with failure and disappointment - the shootings that have become commonplace in our land; mental illness they say effects 1 in 5; suicide rates are often higher in more developed countries like united states; Russia has one of the highest rates of suicide.] We have multiple examples of failure to obey God's ten straightforward commands. We are most vulnerable when we are most successful. Success breeds confidence. Our country is full of examples of powerful and successful men being brought down by the weak and helpless victims they previously oppressed and exploited. I have noticed that most people give out the impression that most things work out for me. Again, you don't see posts on Facebook of a parent with a picture of their child in the principal office for fighting. We might share about failure that has impacted us but rarely do we share about personal failure. We need to share with others. Most of the time when failure hits leaders it is too late. Failure can be a great teacher. Confession frees us from guilt and shame. Failure does not define us. Failure can be forgiven. Failure brings heaven closer. 

A Time To Mourn - Joe Holland (Managing editor at Grimké Seminary in Richmond, Va., and a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America) - We do grieve, mourn and lament into the day of no more tears. And there is unbridled sorrow and purposeful lament. Lament is a gift from God leading to sorrow and finally a feast of joy. (Struggled a little with this reading and getting more out of it.)

Our Final Hope - Michael A. Rogers (Senior pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Lancaster, Pa) - Buried a woman named Hope (86) - live with daily pain from car crash and yet radiated deep joy and trust in Jesus. Sermons today more focused on this life today that future hope. In the past life was shorter and Hope in the face of ever present death was the sermon. Gods word says less about heaven than we might think. At death we leave our physical bodies and our souls are received into God’s presence. Now in Christ, at death with Christ.

Rediscovering Contentment - James L. Harvey (Executive director of Reformed Theological Seminary in New York City) - Product of reformation is that God has called everyone, not just the clergy, to serve Him and bring Him glory. And each person can do this where they are at. Our angst in the world today is we are not satisfied with our work life and singles want to be married. We must be careful about resignation (accepting things as they are) and idealism (grass is greener on other side). Idealism fueled by idolatry (something that can satisfy us other than Christ). Biblical realism is living the life God has assigned to me ("Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him" - 1 Cor. 7:17). I am here to live for Christ. There is no ideal life on this side of glory. 

Talking About Sin and Repentance - Steffen Mueller (Church-planting pastor of Gospel Church München in Munich, Germany) 

Technology and the Christian - Jon D. Payne (Senior pastor of Christ Church Presbyterian in Charleston, S.C) - Yesterday in Sunday School I summarized the lessons of the day with the idea of being careful. Yesterday it was about being careful that Christmas is really about Jesus and be careful that we are not easily deceived. But here in this lesson is another "be careful" and this is in regards to our cell phones and a technology that since 2007 has not a very prominent role in our life. And as it is not shaping our lives, we need to be careful and realize that with it we need to make sure always that it is not taking over us, controlling how we spend our time, pushing us to do things that have no eternal purpose. It is not to say that it is bad, but just that we need to not always assume it is good. It is a great way to find verses in the Bible when we need help. "Look carefully how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil” (Eph. 5:15). 

Using our Beauty - Rebecca VanDoodewaard (Freelance editor and author)

The Sin that Clings So Closely - Garrett Kell (Lead pastor of Del Ray Baptist Church in Alexandria, Va.) - how do we deal with sin that crouches at our door and seeks to devour us - we look to Jesus. And in this we read the Bible to show us Jesus, the Holy Spirit helping us. We see and witness His Love. As his truths start to overpower the weight of our sin, albeit a slow process. As we see Him do good works our trust for Him grows. And we hear His promises. 

Qualified Children's Sunday School Teachers - Stephen J. Adams (Associate pastor of youth and family ministry at Saint Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, Fla) - This presents a high standard I think for Sunday School Teachers. It is good, but I think a little lofty. But overall I think has some good points. At his church, he states, they assess potential teachers in three areas: covenantal, doctrinal, and relational. First, teachers must be members in good standing for at least six months. Second, regardless of age, our teachers must subscribe to the Westminster Standards, with limited approved exceptions. [For adult Sunday school, we also require that teachers must either be ordained officers of the church, pastoral interns, or part of the ministry staff. -- This is what I think is not practical for bigger churches.] Third, potential teachers must be active in the life of our church; they must be committed to the mission of the local church and the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ensuring that these standards are met allows us to make sure that the flock of Christ entrusted to our care is being fed the pure Word of Christ and protected from error.

The Church's Response to Natural Disasters - Victor-Hugo Cruz (Church-planting pastor of Redeemer Church (El Redentor Ciudad de México) in Mexico City) - Good article reminding us to meet the needs in our community and to serve all of the time. I like this mission of the church, to serve in the community. I think I get off track in this thinking at times. 

The Simplicity of God - James E. Dolezal (Director and professor of theology at Radius Theological Institute in Bakersfield, Calif., and also teaches in the School of Divinity at Cairn University in Langhorne, Pa.) 

John 3:16 - God's Love for the World

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

Message: God's Love for the World

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: As I study and read now today's passage John 3:16, probably the most well-known verse scripture in all of scripture, I notice that part of the verse is a repeat of verse 15, "that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life." It is also a repeat of John 3:13, "but He who descended from heaven: the Son of Man" though stated more succinctly. In a way, it is a summary of what He has stated before, yet he adds that "God so loved the World." 

It is interesting but for a long time the John 3:16 flew high on Sunday at NFL football games when kickers kicked the extra point. What is sad is the man that raised these signs actually was not what one would call a strong Christian and had some issues, marrying 4 times and is now in prison. And yet he had an influence possibly on this verse being a stalwart now in society. It is a verse that most Christians have memorized. 

And yet it is a verse that I am not sure the non-Christians reads in its entirety for it focuses on Love, Hell, and Heaven and most I think stop at the Love part. Christ is shown as the only way to avoid perishing. This means he comes at a time when people are perishing and provides the answer to this problem. 

Yet, the Love is significant. When one thinks of the God of the Old Testament as told through its writers, I don't think it is "Love" that we focus on. Instead I think of a God set apart, creator, the one who has been ignored, sinned against. But Jesus does something here that has not since been spoken. He states that God loves. Alexander Maclaren says, "‘God loves’ is the greatest thing that can be said by lips." 

And this Love is personal because our belief is meant to be personal and individual. So I can know that God loves me. 

The remarkable thing about this passage is the focus on the world, "Believe" and that somehow Jesus is making it well known that to bring about eternal life a person must simply believe. Belief is not a works oriented word, but it is actually something that occurs in the heart. And yet believing in Him, Jesus, the Son of Man, means we are believing in all He is and all that He has done. So, that needs to be central in that belief. But, again, I don't see that there is anything that I have done to make myself worthy of believing apart from believing. But instead Jesus says that the work is Himself and that God gave up the Son. One things of Abraham and taking his only son up to offer him as a sacrifice and we see this picture but it is made clear that man does not sacrifice, but rather God provides the sacrifice of His Son for us. 

Romans 5:6-8 speaks of this same idea though focusing on Jesus dying for us, "For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

The verse speaks of a general love God has for the world, but in saying that people must believe, we can know that there are many that do not believe in Him. In life often, Jesus is not the name coming off of people's lips. God is mentioned, but Jesus is often not mentioned. 

Also of note is perishing and eternal life. These outcomes can occur before the grave. People without the love of Jesus and believing in Him are even now perishing. But those who have Christ and believe are living in eternal life or hope. The hope contrasted by the perishing is powerful in our world today. 

Summary: God's love is significant and is a love that up to this point has not been mentioned in this way by God for His people and yet it is a love central to our Bible and changes everything about us who believe for eternity. 

Promise: The love of God is not a given, so we should be grateful for it and be careful never to speak of His love as something that we are owed or that He must show.

Prayer: O God, I thank you for your great Love for me. It is a love that does not change. I believe, and yet I know my belief in You changes and is like wind and chaff sometimes that waves. I have times of denial and I am embarrassed by this. I have times when I hide my belief. But God you love still. And You have saved me from all penalty and grant me a hope and a reality of eternal life that is remarkable. Thank you God for saving me. Thank you for making me whole and presenting me Jesus before God for all eternity. 

John 1:47-51 - Seeing the Way of Salvation

John 1:47-51

47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” 48 Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” 49 Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel.” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you that I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” 51 And He said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

Message: Seeing the Way of Salvation

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: Jesus has left Nazareth and now is in Galilee. Andrew and John, Peter and Phillip and Nathanael. And in this passage today is a conversation between Jesus and Nathanael. Jesus and Nathanael see one another and acknowledge one another, and in the process acknowledge some things. Nathanael is probably coming to get to know Jesus a little better and figure out who He is. Nathanael is an Israelite. 

Nathanael is startled a little because Jesus already knows who He is and had seen him prior. It is not clear if Jesus is showing his all-knowing attributes here or maybe he did see him previously. And yet in Nathanael's response he believed there was something supernatural by what Jesus had done. 

Nathanael calls Jesus King of Israel, Son of God. This is one more title or name given Jesus so far in this book (Word, Light, One, Him, Son of God, Lamb of God). And then Jesus utters a phrase he will repeat often, "Do you believe?" Believe is really the major crux of Jesus. Do people believe in Him? 

And Jesus is remarking one of the first steps of discipleship and that is believe. We must believe before we can trust. 

And Jesus lets him know that as Nathanael is with Jesus and follows Him, then Nathanael will see things, great things, like the heavens open and the angels of God ascending and descending. Being with Jesus will be greater than anything. 

In those words is something interesting as well from Jesus, "You will see." It is repeated twice, in verse 50 and 51. Philip in the previous lesson said to Nathanael, "Come and see." The promise we have with Jesus is to come and see and we will see. Life will be much fuller and complete once we see and behold Jesus, The Spirit illuminates us and gives us understanding and then in Christ we see more than we could have dreamed. It is not that we need to have a major illumination or experience. But it is simply trusting in Him and being guided by Him that we see that life is full and complete. 

And in addition, Jesus says, "You will see greater things than these." This is a great promise from God. I had great joy at my salvation. I often listen or hear the song from Edin Adahl, "Bring back the joy of my salvation" and yet the longer I am following Jesus, the greater it is. Upon salvation, it is only the beginning. The more I am in fellowship with the Lord and see Him in creation, in people, in all things, my faith multiplies and I see and behold Him more and more. And Jesus seems to be expressing this to Nathanael that today is only the beginning. We always have hope for tomorrow, for the future. He promises us heaven and eternal life. We know life will only improve in Christ. 

In these words, Jesus proclaims something significant and that is he is the one who intercedes or go between heaven and earth on behalf of sinful man. 

Alexander Maclaren states on this:

He makes a mightier claim than any that they had dreamed of, and proclaims Himself to be the medium of all communication and intercourse between heaven and earth: ‘Hereafter ye shall see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.’

Christ is the ladder between heaven and earth and so he is the way of salvation. This appears to be a direct reminder of Jacob's Ladder whereby it joins heaven and earth. And the Son of Man is present between heaven and earth, bridging the gap. He is going to heaven and coming back for Man so as to take to heaven. 

Note: My understanding and writings today come from Alexander Maclaren who I really enjoy reading. 

Summary: Jesus proclaims that is present between heaven and earth, going back and forth, taking His people to heaven from earth, back and forth. We see him. We believe. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "On this side of heaven, the greatest thing we can see is Jesus as the way of salvation. Seeing and believing in Him is the only way to heaven."

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for this passage and for Alexander Maclaren and the gifts you gave him to preach and teach Your words. I love to read him and understand so very well what you have done for me. You changed this text before me after a first reading and made it come alive, in seeing you and believing in You and giving me hope for the future. Thank you for Your promises and the joy in knowing You. Thank you for the hope we have for the future and for constantly renewing our hope and keeping me excited about tomorrow. 

Genesis 22:1-14 - Living According to Faith

Genesis 22:1-14

Message: Living According to Faith

Time: Genesis is the first book and Moses is credited as authoring. The book spans 2400 years of time. It was originally written in Hebrew.

What the Lord is Saying:

Today I looked at Matthew 5:11 and it speaks of the promise that we will be reviled for our faith. It is not the sort of promise that we are looking for in our life. The promises we gravitate towards are those in which we are going to receive a blessing and yet persecution and being reviled for my faith is a blessing. It joins me with Christ's sufferings and the sufferings of saints in the past and looks me forward to a future reward. But often we present the gospel with this idea that it will make life easier in some way. We try to sell it before people like we would a new cell phone plan or a new TV or air conditioner, to make life more comfortable. But the reality is the Christian life is about suffering. There is obviously great peace in knowing we are saved for eternity and God has looked down on us and chosen us and we will continue to rejoice and sing those praises, but we must look at our faith as work, hard work to be Christ in me, God with us, and live and work and die for His glory. 

Jesus promises that trials will come. What makes life different with Jesus is how he works through us to stand up under those trials. We have a hope that never blemishes. Our hope is sure. 

In this lesson today is Genesis 22 and test put forth to Abraham to offer up his long awaited son Isaac. He had had a son, Ishmael, but that was through his wife pushing the maid on him in an impatient manner, rather than waiting for God. God kept his promise though. Even though they sought out other avenues for children, God still kept his promise to provide them a son. It was in old age. And now in Genesis 22 the unthinkable is thrown at Abraham. Take your son Isaac and offer him as a sacrifice. Here is the son he had waited for and God calls him to make a sacrifice. Abraham delayed in his departure to do this (Gen 22:2 says "Go now" and in verse 3 he waits till morning.) 

But then, upon seeing Abraham's faith, God does what He will always do, offering a substitute. God wants our faith in him. Faith is the calling card in our life to renewal. We must live this sort of life continually with God. We live in faith, trusting in Him, that He will come through. With Abraham, the substitute was told to him in advance. He was told to do something - sacrifice - and yet God interceded. God will intercede in our life. What is important is living daily by this faith. This is the faith that marks my salvation and this is the faith that needs to chronicle my life. Abraham was not a superhuman. He struggled. I struggle. But Abraham did trust. And I can trust. 

Promise: From Tabletalk -- Authentic faith does not trust God when times are good. It also believes God and acts upon His Word when difficulties come. Life will be hard. But the Lord will be with me, with us, even if the cost is high. A reward is waiting. 

Prayer: Lord God, thank you so much for this morning of being in Your word and the last year of the lesson in BSF in Genesis and spending that time going through Genesis with other men, learning from them and from you. Thank you for faith and that in you I have all I need. Life is hard. It has been and will be and I don't chagrin this because you told me it would be. But you are near. You are with me. And you will take me through all difficulties. Just help me to not guard myself from difficulty and acquiesce into the mold of this world that seeks freedom from trials, safety at all costs, and entertainment. I want to only be about faith. Thank you for providing the substitute of Jesus that changes my life always. I do praise You.  

Jesus Calling: December 15

Your longing for heaven is good, because it is an extension of your yearning for Me. The hope of heaven is meant to strengthen and encourage you, filling you with wondrous Joy. Many Christians have misunderstood this word hope, believing that it denotes wishful thinking. Nothing could be further from the truth! As soon as I became your Savior, heaven because your ultimate destination. The phrase hope of heaven highlights the benefits you can enjoy even while remaining on earth. This hope keeps you spiritually alive during dark times of adversity; it brightens your path and heightens your awareness of My Presence. My desire is that you may overflow with hope by the great power of the Holy Spirit. 

Romans 8:23-25
English Standard Version
²³ And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. ²⁴ For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? ²⁵ But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

Hebrews 6:18-20
English Standard Version
¹⁸ so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. ¹⁹ We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, ²⁰ where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.

Romans 15:13
English Standard Version
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

My Prayer
Lord, you remind me that heaven is a reality for me. Being in Christ makes it a reality and this means this world in which I live in has heaven in it as I live with You in unity and peace. If I am not careful, I allow the problems and difficulties in this present life to get the better of me and I get too focused on them - yet you want to show me that heavenly hope brings me alive to navigate through all of life's ups and downs. No matter the situation, my path to You remains bright. You know the sadness I have Lord when I see others trying to navigate through this life without being in Christ and so there life is a path to hell, despite their best intentions. Draw people to yourself and help me Lord to remain in unity with You, no matter what. Thank you for filling me all joy and peace.

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Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: December 3

Do not be surprised by the fiery attacks on your mind. When you struggle to find Me and to live in My Peace, don't let discouragement set in. You are engaged in massive warfare, spiritually speaking. The evil one abhors your closeness to Me, and his demonic underlings are determined to destroy our intimacy. When you find yourself in the thick of battle, call upon My Name: "Jesus, help me!" At that instant, the battle becomes Mine; your role is simply to trust Me as I fight for you.
     My Name, properly used, has unlimited Power to bless and protect. At the end of time, every knee will bow (in heaven, on earth, and under the earth), when My Name is proclaimed. People who have used "Jesus" as a shoddy swear word will fall down in terror on that awesome day. But all those who have drawn near Me through trustingly uttering My Name will be filled with inexpressible and glorious Joy. This is your great hope, as you await My return. 

Ephesians 6:12
English Standard Version
¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
 
I Samuel 17:47
English Standard Version
and that all this assembly may know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord's, and he will give you into our hand.
 
Philippians 2:9-10
English Standard Version
⁹ Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, ¹⁰ so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth
 
I Peter 1:8-9 
English Standard Version
⁸ Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, ⁹ obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

My Prayer
Jesus, help me. The name of Jesus has power and thank you that I can call upon it and it means something. Thank you for the peace that the name of Jesus brings. I don't want to be a product of my surroundings, but help me to trust always in your promises. Some days are good, some days are bad, some days are simply there, but keep me consistently walking with You, praising You and calling on You for help. Thank You for being there and being my help and carrying me. Forgive me for listening to your name be profaned and just accepting it, whether its watching a movie, a show, or just in life. Lord, in fact it saddens me that Your Name is so easily forgotten of its significance. Help me and strengthen me to champion it.  

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Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Job 19:25-27 - Job's Hope of Resurrection

Job 19:25-27
²⁵ “As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives,
And at the last He will take His stand on the earth.
²⁶ “Even after my skin is destroyed,
Yet from my flesh I shall see God;
²⁷ Whom I myself shall behold,
And whom my eyes will see and not another.
My heart faints within me!

Message: Job's Hope of Resurrection; Or Job's Hope of Being Redeemed

Time: The time of Job is unclear and commonly debated. Often the language of the book can give clues. It seems to be that Job had a lifespan of close to 200 years as Job 42:16 says he lived 140 years after the events in the book.

What the Lord is Saying:

Beginning in verse 23 Job records words that express his dream or his desire to have his words recorded. He had been experiencing injustice from his friends. The previous verses in this chapter express this. He desired that his words might be recorded in some form, like on a tablet or rock, as was the way to record words in those days. 

The Septuagint records these words as: 25 For I know that he is eternal who is about to deliver me, 26 and to raise up upon the earth my skin that endures these sufferings: for these things have been accomplished to me of the Lord; 27 which I am conscious of in myself, which mine eye has seen, and not another, but all have been fulfilled to me in my bosom. 

This, I guess, is a very interesting set of verses. Jews do not ascribe these words to the Messiah while Christians do think it points directly to Jesus. In my reading of these verses since we are not real sure who the source of these verses are it seems what we can do is focus on Job and the condition of his being when he was writing these words. He clearly was hurting and he clearly expected God to solve his hurting. As verse 26 records the fact that even after his skin is destroyed, he will see God. 

Chapter 19 begins with Job feeling insulted and he wants his friends or others to stop the insults. He could be wronged or on the side of error, but, if so, God is the one dealing with him (verse 6). He would hope at least his friends would come to his aid and stand by his side. As "the hand of God has struck" him (verse 21), but why must his friends do the same. 

And it is here then that he turns to God, knowing that God will in the end protect him. And he concludes with words expressing why there is injustice or evil. Evil is the result of punishment to remind us that there is judgment. God wants us to know that judgment is real. So many people spend their lives thinking that there is little in them that deserves God's judgment or even warrants it. In this world in which we live, God wants us to remember that judgment is still real.

Promise: God will rescue us. God may also be punishing us. What we need from each other is consoling and comfort, not more judgment.

Ecclesiastes 3:16-17 - The Hope of Final Judgment

Ecclesiastes 3:16-17 - Furthermore, I have seen under the sun that in the place of justice there is wickedness and in the place of righteousness there is wickedness. I said to myself, “God will judge both the righteous man and the wicked man,” for a time for every matter and for every deed is there.

Message: The Hope of Final Judgment

Time: Solomon's authorship is not stated. Solomon's reign as king of Israel lasted from around 970 B.C. to around 930 B.C. The Book of Ecclesiastes was likely written towards the end of his reign, approximately 935 B.C.
 
What the Lord is Saying:

Background
One of the big arguments for there being a Creator is then life has meaning. Without a Creator mindset then life has meaningless. As I speak to a friend that is an atheist, the one thing that I can't seem to see him understand is the meaningless of life. He has values and things that he loves, but if all life is the in-between then there is no in-between, just now then right and wrong are indeed relative to each situation and no one person has in claim on an overall moral compass. But, with a Creator there is purpose. This is why faith is compelling. 

He says that man wants there to be hope in the future, hope in tomorrow, hope in an after life. I say, "Yes." This is how we are strung. This is how we are made. This is what aches inside of us. 

The focus of Ecclesiastes seems simply -- only God can make sense our of life. 

The Present Absurdity - Wickedness is Here
The writer of Ecclesiastes, Solomon, or the Preacher exclaims that life appears to not make sense, 
Here in verse 16, where there is justice, there is wickedness, and where there is righteousness, there is wickedness. Wickedness is Present.

God will Judge
But, the evil that is done will be judged. We look at wickedness and many times it doesn't make sense. There is truly dark evil. But, the focus here is that God will judge the wicked and the righteous. Both will be judged. There is a time for every matter and every deed. 

Again, as I ponder this passage and my atheist friend, it does seem reasonable that a person should hope for justice or revenge. He himself has said many times that if religion was just out the window, then there would be peace on earth because religion is the reason so many bad things are happening. I can understand that a little. None of the religions want to be judged by the radicals that are in it. I think there is a tendency in any belief to think that what you have should dominant others. With the atheist, I often don't hear answers, but what I hear is God couldn't be the answer. Yet, that is good enough for them. But, what if these tendencies towards hope and judgment are actually planted in us.

It's an interesting thought and idea.

Promise: From Tabletalk - One day, everyone will will receive their due. Believers will receive heaven because they are so closely united to Christ that His perfect obedience and its due reward is reckoned as theirs. Unbelievers will be condemned for their sin, for they are not covered by Jesus’ blood and righteousness.

Further readings:
Ezekiel 34:11-24
John 12:48
Romans 2:12-16

Jesus Calling: July 31

Trust Me in the depths of your being. It is there that I live in constant communication with you. When you feel flustered and frazzled on the outside, do not get upset with yourself. You are only human, and the swirl of events going on all around you will sometimes feel overwhelming. Rather than scolding yourself for your humanness, remind yourself that I am both with you and within you.
     I am with you at all times, encouraging and supportive rather than condemning. I know that deep within you, where I live, My Peace is your continual experience. Slow down your pace of living for a time. Quiet your mind in My Presence. Then you will be able to hear Me bestowing the resurrection blessing: Peace be with you. 

Colossians 1:27
English Standard Version

To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Verse thoughts
Christ in you, the hope of glory: This is the Christian’s hope of glory. It isn’t our own hard work or devotion to God, or the power of our own spirituality. Instead, it is the abiding presence of Jesus: Christ in you. 

Matthew 28:20
English Standard Version

teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

Verse thoughts
Bishop William Beveridge (1637-1708) - Bishop of St Asaph, Diocese of Church of Wales states - “I am with you; I, the eternal Son of God; I, who have the angels at my command, and make the devils tremble by my frown; I, who in your sight have caused the storms to cease, the blind to see, the lame to walk, the dead to rise, only with the word of my mouth; I, who have all power in heaven and earth committed to me — am with you; not, I will be with you, but, I am with you, and that always, all the days, or every day: Wheresoever you are, and whensoever you do any thing toward the executing of the commission which I have given you, I am with you in the doing of it, and that too to the very end of the world: that is, so long as I have a church upon earth, which shall be till my coming again to judge the world, all this while I promise to be with you, and consequently as long as the world shall last.” 

John 20:19
English Standard Version

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

My Prayer
O Lord, thank you for the magnificent reminder, to observe all that You have commanded me. Keep the Words of Your Truth fresh on my mind, not simply for my own gratification, though I am forever grateful for You saving me, but also remind me that I am commissioned as your bond-servant to teach people the gospel of Christ. Thank you that I am not justified by my adherence to these commands, because you know the only good in me is because of You in me. Now, also, thank You for being with me always. That I can go to You, that You are with me - every step. I do not have to call on your presence to be with me, for you are there always. You never leave.

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author. 

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: July 27

Hope is a golden cord connecting you to heaven. This cord helps you hold your head up high, even when multiple trials are buffeting you. I never leave your side, and I never let go of your hand. But without the cord of hope, your head may slump and your feet may shuffle as you journey uphill with Me. Hope lifts your perspective from your weary feet to the glorious view you can see from the high road. You are reminded that the road we're traveling together is ultimately a highway to heaven. When you consider this radiant destination, the roughness or smoothness of the road ahead becomes much less significant. I am training you to hold in your heart a dual focus: My continual Presence and the hope of heaven. 

Romans 12:12
English Standard Version

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
 
I Thessalonians 5:8
English Standard Version

But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.

Hebrews 6:18-19
English Standard Version

¹⁸ so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. ¹⁹ We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain,

My Prayer (2021)

O Father, keep my eyes focused on You. I want to have tunnel vision toward You and not get so distracted by my left and right. I'm impatient right now. And I complain. Forgive me for my gossip and talking ill of others. I so quickly want to make people think my life is in turmoil. If I share things, help me to not attach names to those feelings. I realize that my words tarnish what people think of people when I bring up their names. I'm so quick to try to make myself out to be the better person. You tell me to be patient in tribulation. I need that reminder because I can be so impatient. In these moments, I'm so thankful that You accept me no matter what. But, give me that strength and resolve to change so that I'm glorifying you in all I do and say....and think. 

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author. 


Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Romans 15:13 - Abounding in Hope

Romans 15:13 - May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Message: Abounding in Hope

Time: Written in AD 57 from Greece, to the Christians, both Gentile and Jewish in Rome


What the Lord is Saying:  

This statement here is a concluding admonition offered to the Gentiles which was the audience for verses 9-12. Jesus brought hope to the Gentiles. 

May the God of Hope
This verse is a prayer and word of encouragement that begins and ends with hope. God is the God of hope and His goal is to give hope to the believer. He orchestrates this through the Power of the Holy Spirit. I am filled with hope with joy and peace when I believe.  

God is the origin and object and giver of hope. Abounding in hope is only possible when the God of Hope moves in the life of a believer. Society may think they have hope, but it is a false hope. With God hope is a permanent state.

Fill you
This idea means literally to fill to the brim. Filling is to make something complete. When I fill a glass or container with something, I make that empty container complete with that substance. Here it is the idea of filling a person with all that they need. 

With all Joy and Peace in Believing
God is filling the person with joy and peace. The believers responsibility in this process is simple: to believe.  God will give the believer joy and peace. Joy is something we have that signifies our position in Christ. There is great joy in our salvation. But, that joy can go away at times, but peace will always hold. We need peace to be reminded that our condition of salvation is permanent. 

Joy is a state of knowing I belong to God. It looks past my sin and gives me joy. Peace makes this state a permanent thing. 

The act of believing is done when we consider something to be true. It is not enough to read the scripture. It is not enough to go through the motion of going to church. It is not enough to be in the habit of lifting up concerns to heaven. We must believe. A person is to believe. In believing, the floodgates are opened to joy and peace. Reading the Word, going to Church, and Praying are each important, but they all are only real under the umbrella of believing. 

I have seen this in my life. Sometimes I think that by just going through the motions of reading, church going, praying, listening to sermons or Christian music that it will make all things fine. But, my real issue is whether or not I really believe. Have I placed my trust in God?

By the Power of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is not an afterthought or this other option that is just there. The Holy Spirit has a real purpose and we cannot, as a Christian, live a life of power without the Holy Spirit living and working in our life. 

I saw this written on preceptaustin.org and it is is so perfect regarding the Holy Spirit and His Power:

Remember that when Jesus was on earth, having emptied Himself of His divine prerogatives (albeit still fully God - mystery of mysteries! See Phil 2:5, 6, 7-note), He presented us the perfect example of how to live a supernatural life. And what was Jesus' "secret"? Luke unfolds the beautiful truth that at the beginning of His ministry, "the Holy Spirit descended upon Him" (Luke 3:22, compare Isa 11:2, Isa 61:1, 2, 3, notice also the timing = Luke 3:23 "And when He began His ministry..."). Note what Luke is saying - Jesus receives the manifestation of the Holy Spirit and this event marks the inception of His powerful ministry over the next three years. Luke goes on to record that then "full of the Holy Spirit" (Luke 4:1, see  Paul's command to believers to be continually full of the Spirit, Eph 5:18-note), Jesus "was led about by the Spirit in the wilderness" (Luke 4:1b) which resulted in a period of intense temptation "by the devil " (Luke 4:2-17). In short, Jesus gives us His example for powerful ministry - filling with and submission or surrender to the Holy Spirit, the same Holy Spirit that now indwells all believers (Ro 8:9-note, 1Cor 6:19-note, 1Cor 6:20-note). In the book of Acts, Luke reiterates the vital role of the Holy Spirit in Jesus' ministry recording Peter's declaration...

You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power (dunamis), and how He went about doing good, and healing all who were oppressed by the devil; for God was with Him. (Luke 10:38)

Notice the association of the Holy Spirit with the presence of enabling power, power to accomplish the ministry the Father had assigned to His Son (Do you see the Trinity at work?). Now return to Luke 4 and notice that after His victorious temptation.

Jesus returned to Galilee in the power (dunamis) of the Spirit (Luke 4:14).

Jesus filled with the Holy Spirit, led by the Holy Spirit and empowered by the Holy Spirit began His ministry. In so doing, Jesus the perfect Man is providing us the pattern for powerful ministry! Have you learned the "secret" of the Holy Spirit's power in your life? Paul (1Cor 11:1), Peter (1Peter 2:21-note) and John (1Jn 2:6) all call on believers to follow in the steps of Jesus. While clearly there are some exceptions (Jesus' miracles of raising the dead, etc.), the basic pattern of power for supernatural ministry is provided - the secret is the Holy Spirit! Jesus' charge to His men in Acts 1:8 and playing out of that verse in the remainder of the book of Acts affirm the basic principle of the Holy Spirit's power  enabling us to live the Christian life as more than conquerors!

May God open the eyes of our heart to the surpassing greatness of the power of the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:18, 19-note) available in our lives so that we might experience an abundant, fruit filled life (Gal 5:22-note, Gal 5:23-note), in turn so that God the Father might be greatly glorified by the supernatural deeds the Spirit of grace (Heb 10:29b) enables us to perform (cp Mt 5:16-note, Jn 15:8) as we progressively learn more and more to yield to Him, to be filled with Him and to walk by Him (Eph 5:18-note, Gal 5:16-note).

You may abound in Hope
Hope here is not just the desire that something will happen in the future, but it is the assurance and confidence that it will indeed happen. We spoke to a man at the mall last night at the mall and it was clear in our discussion (eventually) that this man was in a permanent state of hope, believing that Jesus Christ did it all for him, and his confidence was not in his own ability to be obedient, but his confidence was in Christ and all his hope was in Him. He knew his future was secure not because of anything he had done, but because of what Christ had done for him. He was in a state of hope. 

Promise:  The promise to the Christian is by believing they receive the Power of the Holy Spirit and in their life, this gives them a Hope that never fades.