Preparing for Christmas and to sell our house has kept me busy the last few weeks! I am thankful that I am finally writing another post. Thank you readers, for your patience!
During breakfast, my little brother and I listened to Exodus 33-34 on BibleGateway's audio Bible. I was awestruck at the glory of the LORD (who God is) as revealed in this passage. Recent struggles with sin, and God's gracious providing of victory through faith in Christ were fresh in my mind. Part of the struggle was, "How could God be so patient, gracious, merciful and compassionate (not to mention loving) towards me? I fail. I know He is faithful. I know He is just and holy." It is in these prideful thoughts that the Lord, by His Spirit through the Word, gives His grace: "...the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." (2 Cor. 4:4).
This leads to another reality that struck me: God's interaction with His people in the Old Testament as compared with the New Testament. The New Covenant is totally "new" (unheard of), because of Jesus Christ. I think of Hebrews and the focus there on Jesus being better than old way of doing things. In Exodus we see Moses interceding on behalf of Israel. In the New Testament (Romans 8 and Hebrews), we see Jesus' High Priestly ministry.
After looking over Exodus 32-34 (I highly recommend you read this passage), I read 2 Corinthians 3:7-18:
7 But if the ministry of death, in letters engraved on stones, came with glory, so that the sons of Israel could not look intently at the face of Moses because of the glory of his face, fading as it was,
8 how will the ministry of the Spirit fail to be even more with glory?
9 For if the ministry of condemnation has glory, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory.
10 For indeed what had glory, in this case has no glory because of the glory that surpasses it.
11 For if that which fades away was with glory, much more that which remains is in glory.
12 Therefore having such a hope, we use great boldness in our speech,
13 and are not like Moses, who used to put a veil over his face so that the sons of Israel would not look intently at the end of what was fading away.
14 But their minds were hardened; for until this very day at the reading of the old covenant the same veil remains unlifted, because it is removed in Christ.
15 But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their heart;
16 but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.
17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.
To tie this up, let's go to John 1:14-18:
14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.
15 John testified about Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.’ ”
16 For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.
17 For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.
18 No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.
What is our response? Worship and thanks to Yahweh!
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (2 Co. 4:4, 2 Co 3:7–18, Jn 1:14–18). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Friday, 15 December 2017
Saturday, 18 November 2017
Scripture Memory
When I think of love for the Bible, Psalm 119 comes. Verse upon verse about the awesome wonders of God! Psalm 119:11 says, "Your word I have treasured in my heart,
That I may not sin against You."
Psalm 1:1-3 says,
Below is the schedule. I hope you join in!
Week 1: Gen. 1:1
Week 2: Jn. 1:1
Week 3: Jn. 1:14
Week 4: Rom. 3:23
Week 5: Rom. 5:8
Week 6: Rom. 6:23
Week 7: Rom. 10:9-10
Week 8: Ps. 119:11
Week 9: Heb. 4:16
Week 10: 1 Jn. 4:18
Week 11: 1 Jn. 5:14
Week 12: 1 Jn. 5:15
Week 13: Jn. 14:6
Week 14: Jn. 14:27
Week 15: Is. 26:3
Week 16: Is. 53:5
Week 17: Is. 53:6
Week 18: Rev. 4:11
Week 19: Matt. 6:33
Week 20: Rom. 8:28
Week 21: Pr. 3:5
Week 22: 1 Cor. 10:13
Week 23: Ps. 55:22
Week 24: Rom. 12:18
Week 25: Pr. 1:7
Week 26: Eph. 5:18
Week 27: Eph. 5:19
Week 28: Eph. 5:20
Week 29: Eph. 5:21
Week 30: Gal. 5:22-23
Week 31: Jas. 1:3-5
Week 32: 1 Thess. 5:16-18
Week 33: Eph. 2:8-9
Week 34: Gal. 2:20
Week 35: Gal. 3:15
Week 36: Rom. 1:16
Week 37: Ps. 56:3
Week 38: Ps. 4:8
Week 39: Matt. 28:18-20
Week 40: Acts 1:8
Week 41: Ps. 23:1-3
Week 42: Ps. 23:4-6
Week 43: Is. 9:6
Week 44: Lk. 2:10
Week 45: Lk. 2:11
Week 46: Lk. 2:12
Week 47: Rev. 22:20
Week 48: 2 Cor. 4:6
Week 49: 2 Cor. 4:7-9
Week 50: Ps. 100:1-3
Week 51: Ps. 100:4-6
Week 52: Col. 3:15
Extra: Pr. 15:1
Extra: Ps. 103:8
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ps 119:11, Ps 1:1–3). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Psalm 1:1-3 says,
1 How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. 3 He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers.I recently started a Scripture memory schedule with my girls' Bible study. We're memorizing and meditating on one Scripture passage a week for the next 52 weeks. (We even snuck in a few extra favourites). Though some passages may be familiar, they are excellent truths! And when we meditate on them, we're getting to know God more. We as believers, want to live pleasing lives before our loving Creator. It is my prayer that as we study, memorize and meditate on Scripture, His truths will go from our head to our hearts to our hands (Col. 3:16).
Below is the schedule. I hope you join in!
Week 1: Gen. 1:1
Week 2: Jn. 1:1
Week 3: Jn. 1:14
Week 4: Rom. 3:23
Week 5: Rom. 5:8
Week 6: Rom. 6:23
Week 7: Rom. 10:9-10
Week 8: Ps. 119:11
Week 9: Heb. 4:16
Week 10: 1 Jn. 4:18
Week 11: 1 Jn. 5:14
Week 12: 1 Jn. 5:15
Week 13: Jn. 14:6
Week 14: Jn. 14:27
Week 15: Is. 26:3
Week 16: Is. 53:5
Week 17: Is. 53:6
Week 18: Rev. 4:11
Week 19: Matt. 6:33
Week 20: Rom. 8:28
Week 21: Pr. 3:5
Week 22: 1 Cor. 10:13
Week 23: Ps. 55:22
Week 24: Rom. 12:18
Week 25: Pr. 1:7
Week 26: Eph. 5:18
Week 27: Eph. 5:19
Week 28: Eph. 5:20
Week 29: Eph. 5:21
Week 30: Gal. 5:22-23
Week 31: Jas. 1:3-5
Week 32: 1 Thess. 5:16-18
Week 33: Eph. 2:8-9
Week 34: Gal. 2:20
Week 35: Gal. 3:15
Week 36: Rom. 1:16
Week 37: Ps. 56:3
Week 38: Ps. 4:8
Week 39: Matt. 28:18-20
Week 40: Acts 1:8
Week 41: Ps. 23:1-3
Week 42: Ps. 23:4-6
Week 43: Is. 9:6
Week 44: Lk. 2:10
Week 45: Lk. 2:11
Week 46: Lk. 2:12
Week 47: Rev. 22:20
Week 48: 2 Cor. 4:6
Week 49: 2 Cor. 4:7-9
Week 50: Ps. 100:1-3
Week 51: Ps. 100:4-6
Week 52: Col. 3:15
Extra: Pr. 15:1
Extra: Ps. 103:8
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ps 119:11, Ps 1:1–3). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Saturday, 11 November 2017
Praying the Proverbs
In my personal devotions, I'm currently doing an in-depth study of the book of Proverbs. Slowing down has helped me really meditate on the text and work through difficult passages to understand. During this time, I have also found a great opportunity to pray the Proverbs. Before we dig into an example of how one might pray the Proverbs, let’s get a little background on the book.
Proverbs chapter 1 speaks about the purpose in verses 1-6:
1 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:
2 To know wisdom and instruction,
To discern the sayings of understanding,
3 To receive instruction in wise behavior,
Righteousness, justice and equity;
4 To give prudence to the naive,
To the youth knowledge and discretion,
5 A wise man will hear and increase in learning,
And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,
6 To understand a proverb and a figure,
The words of the wise and their riddles.
In verse 7, we see the launch point for the remainder of the book: the wise and the foolish. Verse 7, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Before I started into studying Proverbs, I referenced the MacArthur Study Bible’s “The Book of Proverbs”, the BKC’s “Proverbs by Sid S. Buzzell” and Dr. Abner Chou’s OT Survey lecture on The Book of Proverbs to try and wrap my arms around this rich book. For further study, I also recommend looking into Prof. Bruce Waltke’s works here: https://www.biblicaltraining.org/proverbs/bruce-waltke.
Proverbs 1 and 4 tells us the value of wisdom. 4:7 says, “The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom (Or the primary thing is wisdom); and with all your acquiring, get understanding.”
We must remember Who the source of wisdom is. 2:6: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
It is my prayer that you will know God deeper as you study His wisdom in Proverbs. And may praying the Proverbs bring you to an even more intimate place of worshipping the Lord Jesus Christ!
I am currently in the first 5 verses of chapter 13, so let’s read them, and then I’ll give a sample prayer for verse 1a:
1 A wise son accepts his father’s discipline,
But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.
2 From the fruit of a man’s mouth he enjoys good,
But the desire of the treacherous is violence.
3 The one who guards his mouth preserves his life;
The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.
4 The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing,
But the soul of the diligent is made fat.
5 A righteous man hates falsehood,
But a wicked man acts disgustingly and shamefully.
A wise son accepts his father’s discipline, Heavenly Father, I pray that as Your children, by the grace of Christ, we would readily accept Your discipline (Pr. 3:11-12; Heb. 12:4-11); knowing that such discipline is “… for our good, so that we may share [Your] holiness.” (Heb. 12) And “… to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” (Heb. 12) May we also respect our earthly fathers, who “disciplined [discipline] us … as seemed best to them ….” (Heb. 12). We ask in faith for wisdom (Jas. 1:5-8), and we thank You that You graciously grant this! Thank You for the grace we have in Christ, who is the ultimate wise Son (Matt. 3:17; Col. 2:3). Thank You for being our perfect Father, who disciplines us. Thank You for Your Word, which gives us wisdom. We pray all these things in Jesus’ precious name, amen.
Your prayers may not be this intricate for each line. With reference to verse 1b, it may be something more like, Father, I pray that You would have mercy on the scoffer. May we abhor his way. And so on and so forth.
On a final note, as you are studying and praying, remember to always use proper hermeneutics! You don’t ever want to add or take away from the text (Pr. 30:5-6; Rev. 22:18-19). Rather, may your time in the word be a time of worshipping the Word, Jesus Christ!
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Pr 1:1-7, 2:6, 4:7, 13:1–5; Heb 12:4-11). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Friday, 3 November 2017
The Gospel Vs. Legalism - Part 2
What does the word “sanctification” mean? Merriam-Webster defines it, “1: an
act of sanctifying; 2a: the state of being sanctified, b: the state of growing
in divine grace as a result of Christian commitment after baptism or
conversion”. The first two definitions of “sanctify” are, “1: to set apart to a
sacred purpose or to religious use: CONSECRATE; 2: to free from sin: PURIFY”.
In the Bible, we see that it means “to set apart unto God.” We see that
believers are sanctified by God (set apart to God from sin at the moment He
saved them – see last week’s post, “The Gospel Vs. Legalism”) and are being
sanctified by God (this salvation is continually being worked out until
glorification).
Last week’s post talked about the initial act of God saving sinners. This one-time event is seen in Ephesians 2:1-10, where spiritually dead people are brought to life in Christ. (Other passages speak of this as believers being “crucified with Christ” [Rom. 6; Gal. 2; Col. 2] and “raised up with Christ” [Col. 3]). They are securely saved forever (Jn. 10; 17). So sure is this salvation, that our final transformation, or, glorification is stated in the past tense (Eph. 2:4-7; Rom. 8:28-30). We’re not perfect yet though.
We are works in progress, and this process of setting us apart from sin is our sanctification. God is doing this! Among many others, there are a few passages in Romans and Hebrews to look at regarding this:
Romans. 5:8-11:
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.
10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.
11 And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.
Romans 8:28-34:
28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
29 For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren;
30 and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?
32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?
33 Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies;
34 who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.
Hebrews 7:23-25:
23 The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing,
24 but Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently.
25 Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
Finally, Hebrews 10:11-14:
11 Every priest stands daily ministering and offering time after time the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins;
12 but He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD,
13 waiting from that time onward UNTIL HIS ENEMIES BE MADE A FOOTSTOOL FOR HIS FEET.
14 For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified.
Notice Jesus, alive and interceding for His saints! Rather than working to be holy, let us live by faith in Him. Thanks be to Him (1 Cor. 15:57)! If you want to read more about sanctification, read Galatians. These people were struggling with legalism. We see a sampling here as Paul writes in 2:20-3:3:
20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
21 “I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.”
Chapter 3
Faith Brings Righteousness
1 You foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified?
2 This is the only thing I want to find out from you: did you receive the Spirit by the works of the Law, or by hearing with faith?
3 Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?
4 Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain?
Lastly, 2 Cor. 5:14-15 sums up believers lives well: “14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; 15 and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.” What amazing love!
In response, I think of two hymns. “I need no other argument, I need no other plea. It is enough that Jesus died and that He died for me” (“My Faith Has Found A Resting Place”) and “On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand…” (“On Christ The Solid Rock”).
Yes, we “work out our salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12-13), but we fix our eyes on Jesus, "the author and perfecter of faith" (Heb. 12).
“If our primary goal is love Jesus, everything else will fall into place…when we’re tempted to let our failures overwhelm us, let us look at the greatness of Christ – He lived perfectly, and He died for us. When God looks at us, He sees Jesus, because He’s filling us.” - Rachel Clifford
To God be the glory!
For further reading see 1 Thess. 4:1-12; 5:23-25.
Merriam-Webster, I. (2003). Merriam-Webster’s collegiate dictionary. (Eleventh ed.). Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster, Inc.
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ro 5:8-11; 8:28-34; Heb 7:23-25; Heb 10:11–14; Ga 2:20-3:4; 2 Co 5:14-15). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Last week’s post talked about the initial act of God saving sinners. This one-time event is seen in Ephesians 2:1-10, where spiritually dead people are brought to life in Christ. (Other passages speak of this as believers being “crucified with Christ” [Rom. 6; Gal. 2; Col. 2] and “raised up with Christ” [Col. 3]). They are securely saved forever (Jn. 10; 17). So sure is this salvation, that our final transformation, or, glorification is stated in the past tense (Eph. 2:4-7; Rom. 8:28-30). We’re not perfect yet though.
We are works in progress, and this process of setting us apart from sin is our sanctification. God is doing this! Among many others, there are a few passages in Romans and Hebrews to look at regarding this:
Romans. 5:8-11:
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.
10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.
11 And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.
Romans 8:28-34:
28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
29 For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren;
30 and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?
32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?
33 Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies;
34 who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.
Hebrews 7:23-25:
23 The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing,
24 but Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently.
25 Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
Finally, Hebrews 10:11-14:
11 Every priest stands daily ministering and offering time after time the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins;
12 but He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD,
13 waiting from that time onward UNTIL HIS ENEMIES BE MADE A FOOTSTOOL FOR HIS FEET.
14 For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified.
Notice Jesus, alive and interceding for His saints! Rather than working to be holy, let us live by faith in Him. Thanks be to Him (1 Cor. 15:57)! If you want to read more about sanctification, read Galatians. These people were struggling with legalism. We see a sampling here as Paul writes in 2:20-3:3:
20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
21 “I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.”
Chapter 3
Faith Brings Righteousness
1 You foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified?
2 This is the only thing I want to find out from you: did you receive the Spirit by the works of the Law, or by hearing with faith?
3 Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?
4 Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain?
Lastly, 2 Cor. 5:14-15 sums up believers lives well: “14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; 15 and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.” What amazing love!
In response, I think of two hymns. “I need no other argument, I need no other plea. It is enough that Jesus died and that He died for me” (“My Faith Has Found A Resting Place”) and “On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand…” (“On Christ The Solid Rock”).
Yes, we “work out our salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12-13), but we fix our eyes on Jesus, "the author and perfecter of faith" (Heb. 12).
“If our primary goal is love Jesus, everything else will fall into place…when we’re tempted to let our failures overwhelm us, let us look at the greatness of Christ – He lived perfectly, and He died for us. When God looks at us, He sees Jesus, because He’s filling us.” - Rachel Clifford
To God be the glory!
For further reading see 1 Thess. 4:1-12; 5:23-25.
Merriam-Webster, I. (2003). Merriam-Webster’s collegiate dictionary. (Eleventh ed.). Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster, Inc.
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ro 5:8-11; 8:28-34; Heb 7:23-25; Heb 10:11–14; Ga 2:20-3:4; 2 Co 5:14-15). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Saturday, 28 October 2017
The Gospel Vs. Legalism
Many believers and non-believers today are confused about God’s salvation. In
this two part series, we will look at “The Gospel Vs. Legalism” concerning
salvation. Part one will touch on the initial salvific act of God on a sinner’s
behalf. Part two will touch on “The Gospel Vs. Legalism” concerning
sanctification. Presently, we’ll define the Gospel and how God saves a sinner
initially. Since October 31st is next Tuesday (the Reformation
anniversary), let’s briefly look at some history.
In reflecting upon the 500 year anniversary of the Reformation, we remember a return to the true Gospel. The Church, at the time, was promoting works righteousness in order to get to God. God in His grace, worked in many instrumental people’s lives to proclaim His truth rebutting man’s faulty ways. We thank God for them!
The word "Gospel" is a translation of the Greek word euangelion, meaning "good news". That's exactly what it is: God's Good News on how to be saved! There is no other "good news". In other words, there is no other way to be saved, other than by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:1-4:
1 Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand,
2 by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain.
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,
4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,
This is the Gospel! Paul writes in Romans 1:16-17: “16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”
Read Ephesians 2:1-10 carefully:
1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,
2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.
3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.
4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
There’s no need for further explanation on these two passages. They clearly proclaim that “Salvation belongs to the Lord…” (Ps. 3:8). This passage in Ephesians will serve as a launching point for next weeks’ part two: “The Gospel Vs. Legalism” concerning sanctification. One more passage on today’s topic:
Titus 3:3-8:
3 For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.
4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared,
5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
6 whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
8 This is a trustworthy statement; and concerning these things I want you to speak confidently, so that those who have believed God will be careful to engage in good deeds. These things are good and profitable for men.
In closing, may we heed Paul’s words in Philippians 3 when he dealt with the legalists of his day:
1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you.
2 Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the false circumcision;
3 for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh,
Thanks be to God!
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (1 Co 15:1–4, Ro 1:16-17, Eph 2:1-10, Tt. 3:3-8, Php 3:1-3). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
In reflecting upon the 500 year anniversary of the Reformation, we remember a return to the true Gospel. The Church, at the time, was promoting works righteousness in order to get to God. God in His grace, worked in many instrumental people’s lives to proclaim His truth rebutting man’s faulty ways. We thank God for them!
The word "Gospel" is a translation of the Greek word euangelion, meaning "good news". That's exactly what it is: God's Good News on how to be saved! There is no other "good news". In other words, there is no other way to be saved, other than by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:1-4:
1 Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand,
2 by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain.
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,
4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,
This is the Gospel! Paul writes in Romans 1:16-17: “16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”
Read Ephesians 2:1-10 carefully:
1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,
2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.
3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.
4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
There’s no need for further explanation on these two passages. They clearly proclaim that “Salvation belongs to the Lord…” (Ps. 3:8). This passage in Ephesians will serve as a launching point for next weeks’ part two: “The Gospel Vs. Legalism” concerning sanctification. One more passage on today’s topic:
Titus 3:3-8:
3 For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.
4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared,
5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
6 whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
8 This is a trustworthy statement; and concerning these things I want you to speak confidently, so that those who have believed God will be careful to engage in good deeds. These things are good and profitable for men.
In closing, may we heed Paul’s words in Philippians 3 when he dealt with the legalists of his day:
1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you.
2 Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the false circumcision;
3 for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh,
Thanks be to God!
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (1 Co 15:1–4, Ro 1:16-17, Eph 2:1-10, Tt. 3:3-8, Php 3:1-3). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Friday, 20 October 2017
“Wait for the LORD…”
We were created to work (Gen. 1-2). Believers are specifically created unto
“good works” (Eph. 2:8-10). Waiting is a difficult task. One might think of waiting as an inactive or passive state.
The Bible speaks otherwise. Thoughts have crossed my mind, “God, I want to do something for You…but I can’t.”
Waiting is doing something for God.
Life is full of instances where we are waiting for specific things (an unsaved child to come to Christ, healing in a broken relationship, fruit to be born in ministry – you fill in the blank). Really, the whole Christian life is in a waiting state as we eagerly await the return of our Lord Jesus (Tit. 2:13; Heb. 9:28; 2 Pet. 3:20; Jude 21). We are not, however, idle during our waiting. For the Lord is working in us through the waiting, for His glory!
In Psalm 27, we are called to “Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the LORD.” Our waiting draws us to dependence upon Him, who “…is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;” (2 Cor. 9:8). Paul tells the Corinthian Church, who have been transformed (and are being transformed as they await the future and final transformation): “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Cor. 15:58). Read this verse again. (See Rom. 8:18-39 and Heb. 11-12 and context). We see this all over the Bible where saints are to live in perseverance of doing good, awaiting the blessing of the Lord.
In both the Old and New Testaments, people waited in expectation of something. Noah waited for the dove to return with a sign of dry land (Gen. 8:10-12). The Psalmists repeatedly tell of waiting for the LORD (Ps. 27; 37; 62; 130) and the people of God waited for Messiah’s coming. There are many more examples of waiting in the Bible. But I want to highlight that we are being prepared in our waiting unto the sure hope that the Lord has promised – eternal life (Tit. 3:4-8)! Don’t waste your waiting-filled life. Live for the Lord, anticipating eternal life with Him (Jn. 10:10).
The Lord does bless us in this life (Ps. 103). We praise Him and thank Him for this, including the greatest blessing of knowing Him (e.g. Ps. 100)! This blessed life with God foretastes the reality of our hope and will only increase until that day – come Lord Jesus!
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ps 27:14; 2 Co 9:8; 1 Co 15:58). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Life is full of instances where we are waiting for specific things (an unsaved child to come to Christ, healing in a broken relationship, fruit to be born in ministry – you fill in the blank). Really, the whole Christian life is in a waiting state as we eagerly await the return of our Lord Jesus (Tit. 2:13; Heb. 9:28; 2 Pet. 3:20; Jude 21). We are not, however, idle during our waiting. For the Lord is working in us through the waiting, for His glory!
In Psalm 27, we are called to “Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the LORD.” Our waiting draws us to dependence upon Him, who “…is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;” (2 Cor. 9:8). Paul tells the Corinthian Church, who have been transformed (and are being transformed as they await the future and final transformation): “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Cor. 15:58). Read this verse again. (See Rom. 8:18-39 and Heb. 11-12 and context). We see this all over the Bible where saints are to live in perseverance of doing good, awaiting the blessing of the Lord.
In both the Old and New Testaments, people waited in expectation of something. Noah waited for the dove to return with a sign of dry land (Gen. 8:10-12). The Psalmists repeatedly tell of waiting for the LORD (Ps. 27; 37; 62; 130) and the people of God waited for Messiah’s coming. There are many more examples of waiting in the Bible. But I want to highlight that we are being prepared in our waiting unto the sure hope that the Lord has promised – eternal life (Tit. 3:4-8)! Don’t waste your waiting-filled life. Live for the Lord, anticipating eternal life with Him (Jn. 10:10).
The Lord does bless us in this life (Ps. 103). We praise Him and thank Him for this, including the greatest blessing of knowing Him (e.g. Ps. 100)! This blessed life with God foretastes the reality of our hope and will only increase until that day – come Lord Jesus!
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ps 27:14; 2 Co 9:8; 1 Co 15:58). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Wednesday, 11 October 2017
Living in the Presence of God
Psalm 27:4
One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD and to meditate in His temple.
With all the things we humans are seeking after and asking for (even of
the LORD), it's striking what David says in Psalm 27. He sought to be in the
LORD's presence "...all the days of [his] life, to behold the beauty of
the LORD and to meditate in His temple."
Have you ever heard the term, coram Deo? It is a Latin term that means, "in the presence of God" (Wikipedia). Ligonier Ministries defines it as follows:
Have you ever heard the term, coram Deo? It is a Latin term that means, "in the presence of God" (Wikipedia). Ligonier Ministries defines it as follows:
This phrase literally refers to something that takes place in the presence of, or before the face of, God. To live coram Deo is to live one’s entire life in the presence of God, under the authority of God, to the glory of God.
Living (everything we do) in the presence of God; so simple, yet so
all-encompassing! Read passages like Psalm 84 and really focus on what this
means. Psalm 37:3-4:
3 Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself in the LORD; and He will give you the desires of your heart.
When we do, as Psalm 37:3-4 says, there are no higher priorities.
Everything else falls in place.
John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I [Jesus] came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." 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." This is the Gospel: that Jesus died for our sins, and rose again. This is the glory of the new covenant (see 2 Cor. 3). Believe in Him today and always, and live in the presence of God (cf. Heb. 4:14-16; 10:19-25). As we do this, we will reflect His glory to all those watching (2 Cor. 3:18).
Ephesians 3:14-21:
John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I [Jesus] came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." 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." This is the Gospel: that Jesus died for our sins, and rose again. This is the glory of the new covenant (see 2 Cor. 3). Believe in Him today and always, and live in the presence of God (cf. Heb. 4:14-16; 10:19-25). As we do this, we will reflect His glory to all those watching (2 Cor. 3:18).
Ephesians 3:14-21:
14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ps 27:4; Ps 37:3-4;
Jn 10:10; 3:16). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
http://www.ligonier.org/blog/what-does-coram-deo-mean/
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 3:14–21). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
http://www.ligonier.org/blog/what-does-coram-deo-mean/
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 3:14–21). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
Wednesday, 4 October 2017
Look to Jesus
Hebrews 12:1-2
1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
"[Look to Jesus]...That's the Christian religion in a nutshell isn't it?" (Pastor Jeremy Cagle, Suffering with Christ).
The book of Hebrews proclaims the message, "Jesus is better". The opening portion of verse 1 in chapter 12 references back to chapter 11. Those saints bear witness to the hope of God: Christ and our eternity in and with Him. Verses 39-40 of chapter 11 say,
39 And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised,
40 because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they would not be made perfect.
Because of Christ, us believers will one day be made perfect in Christlikeness (Rom. 8). Christ Himself and His glory is the end and hope towards which we strive. As a note, when I say, "hope", I do not mean something that might happen. Rather, hope Biblically defined is that which will certainly be brought about (cf. Heb. 6:9-20 & context).
Meditate on the rest of Hebrews 12:1-2. You, Christian, are in a race. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27:
24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.
25 Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
26 Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air;
27 but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.
With reference to the passage above, the victory for believers is the intimate knowledge of Christ Himself, for His glory! He is worthy for us to run all-out. Spend your lives on Christ (Matt. 16:24-28), knowing that His grace is sufficient (Rom. 6; 2 Cor. 12). Jesus is "the author and perfecter of faith". He, our "captain of salvation" (2:10) has blazed the trail ahead for us. He gives us faith (Eph. 2:1-10).
24 Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy,
25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. - Jude 24-25
Romans 15:13 is my prayer for you:
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Heb 12:1–2, 11:39-40; 1 Co 9:24-27; Jud 24-25; Ro 15:13). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
http://gracefellowshipchilliwack.com/th_sermon/suffering-with-christ/
1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
"[Look to Jesus]...That's the Christian religion in a nutshell isn't it?" (Pastor Jeremy Cagle, Suffering with Christ).
The book of Hebrews proclaims the message, "Jesus is better". The opening portion of verse 1 in chapter 12 references back to chapter 11. Those saints bear witness to the hope of God: Christ and our eternity in and with Him. Verses 39-40 of chapter 11 say,
39 And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised,
40 because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they would not be made perfect.
Because of Christ, us believers will one day be made perfect in Christlikeness (Rom. 8). Christ Himself and His glory is the end and hope towards which we strive. As a note, when I say, "hope", I do not mean something that might happen. Rather, hope Biblically defined is that which will certainly be brought about (cf. Heb. 6:9-20 & context).
Meditate on the rest of Hebrews 12:1-2. You, Christian, are in a race. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27:
24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.
25 Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
26 Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air;
27 but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.
With reference to the passage above, the victory for believers is the intimate knowledge of Christ Himself, for His glory! He is worthy for us to run all-out. Spend your lives on Christ (Matt. 16:24-28), knowing that His grace is sufficient (Rom. 6; 2 Cor. 12). Jesus is "the author and perfecter of faith". He, our "captain of salvation" (2:10) has blazed the trail ahead for us. He gives us faith (Eph. 2:1-10).
24 Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy,
25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. - Jude 24-25
Romans 15:13 is my prayer for you:
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.
For further reading, perhaps read one of the following passages a day for the next week: Ps. 121; Phil. 3, 4:13; 2 Cor. 5; 2 Tim 4:6-8, Heb. 11 & 1 Pet. 1.
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Heb 12:1–2, 11:39-40; 1 Co 9:24-27; Jud 24-25; Ro 15:13). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
http://gracefellowshipchilliwack.com/th_sermon/suffering-with-christ/
Saturday, 23 September 2017
Living Sacrifices
Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. - Romans 12:1
Let's really think about this verse, breaking it down into
it's constituent parts. Verse 1: “Therefore” looks back to chapters 1-11. The
Apostle is urging or appealing (ESV) the brethren to, by the “mercies
of God” (all those mentioned in 1-11), “present”. This is interesting...all
believers do is “present [our] bodies a living and holy sacrifice,”. (Think
about each word here). An Old Testament sacrifice was something offered to God,
as an act of worship. The sacrifice of a believer’s life is “living and holy”,
sustained and set apart spiritually and physically by God. Our sacrifice is
“acceptable to God” because of Christ and His Gospel (2 Cor. 5:21). This is our
“spiritual service of worship.” This verse describes the believer’s existence.
We must quit struggling to play a bigger role in our life with God. We, by His
mercies, present ourselves to God. Christ is all in all. Will you trust Him?
His grace is sufficient for you to live for Him. Perhaps you've never trusted
in Christ as your Lord and Saviour. Would you do so today?
Verses for further reading: Lamentations 3:22-24:
22 The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never
cease,
For His
compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is
Your faithfulness.
24 “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul,
“Therefore
I have hope in Him.”
Matthew 16:24-28:
24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone
wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow
Me.
25 “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose
it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.
26 “For what will it profit a man if he gains the
whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his
soul?
27 “For the Son of Man is going to come in the
glory of His Father with His angels, and WILL THEN REPAY EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO
HIS DEEDS.
28 “Truly I say to you, there are some of those
who are standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man
coming in His kingdom.”
New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995).
(Ro 12:1; La 3:22-24; Mt 16:24-28). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Saturday, 16 September 2017
I'm Thankful For...
The attitude of gratitude is often not an easy one to have. Though the Lord has given us more than enough supply, we struggle to give Him thanks. This is because our sinful flesh does not want to trust God. We actually doubt God.
I want to encourage you, by God's grace, kill this sinful attitude. Christ has freed us from our sin that we may live for Him (Romans 6-8, 2 Corinthians 5:14-21). Simply start by praying thanksgiving to God. Thank Him for:
Good things.
Our God is holy and awesome (Ps. 111:9). Be thankful for who He is! Look up Scriptures on the character of God, and thank Him. (See Exodus 34 - the glory/Person of the LORD).
Thank Him for the eternal realities that He has created. For example, we have eternal life with Him (Jn. 3:16; Rev. 21-22)! Thank Him for salvation, hope, the word, the promises of God, His presence, His church.
Thank Him for all that He is for us in Christ. (Romans and many other passages detail this).
Thank Him for other blessings such as family, friends, food, clothes, the different seasons that He faithfully brings about. And the list goes on!
Psalm 103:1-5 lists several things to thank God for.
Thank God for adversity. Job 2:10 says, "...Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?" When we read the Bible, we see that God's has glorious plans from eternity past to eternity future. I once heard it said that God's plans are like an intricate tapestry; knotty and indecipherable on one side but beautiful on the other side as a result.
God uses the difficult things in life to sanctify (cf. Rom. 8:28; Jas. 1), so thank Him for them. When you're anxious, sick or tired, thank God that moment. This is His will for us (1 Thess. 5:16-18). This is trusting Him.
In closing, memorize and meditate on passages about thankfulness: 1 Thess. 5:16-18; Eph. 5:20; Col. 3:17; Ps. 50:14; 100; 136 etc.). Pray that you'll be more thankful. Discipline yourself to pray thanksgiving to God, by His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit. Once you start responding to His Spirit leading you to be thankful, you will begin overflowing with thankfulness!
I want to encourage you, by God's grace, kill this sinful attitude. Christ has freed us from our sin that we may live for Him (Romans 6-8, 2 Corinthians 5:14-21). Simply start by praying thanksgiving to God. Thank Him for:
Good things.
Our God is holy and awesome (Ps. 111:9). Be thankful for who He is! Look up Scriptures on the character of God, and thank Him. (See Exodus 34 - the glory/Person of the LORD).
Thank Him for the eternal realities that He has created. For example, we have eternal life with Him (Jn. 3:16; Rev. 21-22)! Thank Him for salvation, hope, the word, the promises of God, His presence, His church.
Thank Him for all that He is for us in Christ. (Romans and many other passages detail this).
Thank Him for other blessings such as family, friends, food, clothes, the different seasons that He faithfully brings about. And the list goes on!
Psalm 103:1-5 lists several things to thank God for.
Thank God for adversity. Job 2:10 says, "...Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?" When we read the Bible, we see that God's has glorious plans from eternity past to eternity future. I once heard it said that God's plans are like an intricate tapestry; knotty and indecipherable on one side but beautiful on the other side as a result.
God uses the difficult things in life to sanctify (cf. Rom. 8:28; Jas. 1), so thank Him for them. When you're anxious, sick or tired, thank God that moment. This is His will for us (1 Thess. 5:16-18). This is trusting Him.
In closing, memorize and meditate on passages about thankfulness: 1 Thess. 5:16-18; Eph. 5:20; Col. 3:17; Ps. 50:14; 100; 136 etc.). Pray that you'll be more thankful. Discipline yourself to pray thanksgiving to God, by His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit. Once you start responding to His Spirit leading you to be thankful, you will begin overflowing with thankfulness!
Saturday, 9 September 2017
Psalm 23
Psalm 23 is a wonderful Psalm, rich in the glorious truths of God:
A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
3 He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.1
Think about each phrase in this Psalm, and thank God! It is familiar, concise, and thus easy to meditate on. In a myriad of circumstances, the Holy Spirit wondrously brings beautiful facets of truth to my mind from this Psalm.
When struggling with distrust in the LORD, discontentment, insufficiency and fear or anger, vengeance, hopelessness and worry, Jesus reminds me of Psalm 23. He is our Sovereign, Good Shepherd, Who gives His life for His sheep (Jn. 10). He always cares for us, and not one particle of life slips out of His loving hand (cf. Rom. 8:28-39). We must remember Who the LORD our Shepherd is. He is the LORD! These truths apply with regards to the world around us too.
Sometimes we fret over other people and their struggles, like the unsaved, family members, the church, governing authorities etc. May these concerns be brought before our Lord in prayer. May we trust Him to care for those who are His sheep, knowing that He will bring all those whom He will into His fold.
For His glory, praise the LORD. Amen!
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ps 23:title–6). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
3 He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.1
Think about each phrase in this Psalm, and thank God! It is familiar, concise, and thus easy to meditate on. In a myriad of circumstances, the Holy Spirit wondrously brings beautiful facets of truth to my mind from this Psalm.
When struggling with distrust in the LORD, discontentment, insufficiency and fear or anger, vengeance, hopelessness and worry, Jesus reminds me of Psalm 23. He is our Sovereign, Good Shepherd, Who gives His life for His sheep (Jn. 10). He always cares for us, and not one particle of life slips out of His loving hand (cf. Rom. 8:28-39). We must remember Who the LORD our Shepherd is. He is the LORD! These truths apply with regards to the world around us too.
Sometimes we fret over other people and their struggles, like the unsaved, family members, the church, governing authorities etc. May these concerns be brought before our Lord in prayer. May we trust Him to care for those who are His sheep, knowing that He will bring all those whom He will into His fold.
For His glory, praise the LORD. Amen!
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ps 23:title–6). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Saturday, 2 September 2017
Weddings & Revelation
This past summer, I attended a couple of weddings. Many ideas danced around in my mind of how God-glorifying weddings cans be. Many Biblical symbolisms and principles could be played out. Like, a multitude of invited guests would worship the Lord, serving as a witness to God's glorious kingdom plans. The bold proclamation of Christ and the Gospel would be foundational to the event. Wonderful, beautiful, powerful music would praise and exalt the God of heaven and earth. And a celebratory banquet would be held as Christ's Bride on earth enjoyed fellowship with one another and Himself! All these and more kept me awake in the night with excitement and anticipation to partake in such festivities. Then the Lord gently reminded me how these mere earthly experiences give way and point to much greater heavenly realities yet to come! To God be the glory!
I turned to the book of Revelation, chapters 19-22. The evil world system has just been done away with and the marriage of the Lamb and His Bride have come. Read these chapters. Below are some tasty verses that stuck out to me in writing this blog post, but they need to be read in their proper context. Verses 6-7, 17 & 20:
Pray for Christ to come and for others to come into His kingdom (cf. Matt. 6:9-13)!
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Re 22:6–7, 17, 20). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
2 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ro 10:9). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
I turned to the book of Revelation, chapters 19-22. The evil world system has just been done away with and the marriage of the Lamb and His Bride have come. Read these chapters. Below are some tasty verses that stuck out to me in writing this blog post, but they need to be read in their proper context. Verses 6-7, 17 & 20:
...And he said to me, “These words are faithful and true”; and the Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, sent His angel to show to His bond-servants the things which must soon take place. 7 “And behold, I am coming quickly. Blessed is he who heeds the words of the prophecy of this book. ... 17 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost. ... He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. ...1May Christ come, and may you come to Christ while there is yet time! May you, "confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;" (Romans 10:9). 2
Pray for Christ to come and for others to come into His kingdom (cf. Matt. 6:9-13)!
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Re 22:6–7, 17, 20). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
2 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Ro 10:9). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
Saturday, 26 August 2017
Encouragements In Christ
It has been a while since my last post. The Lord has done and continues to do many wonderful things in His church, and we are here to proclaim Him (Ps. 34:1-3; Col. 1:28)! He encourages us in Christ, and I want to share some of the ways He is doing this in my life. Every week there will be a post containing a variety of means of encouragement. From articles to applications, Scriptures to sermons and prayers to practices, may you be encouraged in Christ. I pray 2 Corinthians 3:18 would be true of you as you read this blog:
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (2 Co 3:18). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.1May God be glorified!
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (2 Co 3:18). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
"Praying At All Times"
Ephesians 6:18:
After taking in that sermon, here's an encouraging song wherewith to worship God in response: "My Life is an Offering" by Sovereign Grace: http://sovereigngracemusic.org/music/songs/my-life-is-an-offering/.
Below are some practical topics for prayer:
In order to pray effectively in the Holy Spirit, study and memorize Scripture. Memorize some of the prayers above found in Scripture or find other ones, and pray them throughout the day. Set specific time aside to pray. (I've found that praying 3 times a day, like Daniel, has been a wonderful help to praying always). Perhaps pray in the morning, noon and evening.
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Eph 6:18). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,1Does it ever seem like there is a log jam in the channel of our Christian life? We learn so much, but what we learn sometimes seems to slow down or disappear on the way from our heads to our hearts to our hands. Prayer is the means to freeing the log jam. An encouraging message by John MacArthur on Ephesians 6:18 unpacks this. Listen or read here: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/1962/praying-at-all-times.
After taking in that sermon, here's an encouraging song wherewith to worship God in response: "My Life is an Offering" by Sovereign Grace: http://sovereigngracemusic.org/music/songs/my-life-is-an-offering/.
Below are some practical topics for prayer:
- Praise and thank God (Ps. 92; 100)!
- For who He is (Ex. 34; Ps. 100; 103; 145)
- For what He has done so far in the day
- For people He has put in your life
- Pray for the church (Eph. 1; 3:14-21; 6:18-20; 2 Thess. 1:11-12). Tip: Google churches in the area, and around the world, and pray for them!
- Pray Acts 28:30 for your church leaders
- Pray for the persecuted church
- Start the day with prayer: Matt. 6:9-14
- Pray for healing, strength, wisdom, peace and trust in the Lord for those who are sick
- Pray for unbelievers and those suffering from natural disasters
- Praise and thank God for His faithful answering of prayers from that day/week
- Pray for opportunities to serve Jesus, and thank Him for those He gives
- Pray for opportunities to serve Jesus, and thank Him for those He gives
- Pray for wisdom for others and yourself with regards to circumstances arising during the day
- Pray for authorities (1 Tim. 2:1ff)
In order to pray effectively in the Holy Spirit, study and memorize Scripture. Memorize some of the prayers above found in Scripture or find other ones, and pray them throughout the day. Set specific time aside to pray. (I've found that praying 3 times a day, like Daniel, has been a wonderful help to praying always). Perhaps pray in the morning, noon and evening.
"Heavenly Father, thank You for the gracious gift of prayer. May we do as Your word says, and pray always. Thank You that you have called us into fellowship with Your Son (1 Cor. 1:9). May You be glorified in all. In Jesus' name, Amen."
1 New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Eph 6:18). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
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