hope

The Greatest Gift to Mankind

Thank you God for the most precious gift of Your only Son; all because You love us beyond measure.

Celebrate the Joy of Christmas!

Why do we need Jesus?

What did He do?

How did He do it?

What does it mean for us?

Several months ago, at the Senior living center where my mom lives, we began answering these four questions in our monthly Bible study. We based our answers on a passage in the Bible in the book of Titus. Think! How would you answer the questions above? Do you agree that you need Jesus or are you unsure? Are you able to say what He did or how, or why it was necessary? How does the understanding of these answers change your life?

Let’s do a quick recap. Why we need Jesus – because we are sinful, imperfect, hating what is good, and disobedient to the Truth. We want our own way, we seek our own gratification, we think we are better than others, and we look down on all those who oppose our way of thinking. This is very clearly stated in verse three of our studied scripture.

The second question we answered is, What did Jesus do. When we consider what Jesus did, we need to think of the true meaning of God’s kindness. God’s very character is kind. He is perfect in providing exactly what we need even though we do not deserve His blessings. Because of God’s loving-kindness towards us, He sent His Son to save us. Jesus willingly laid aside His deity and became man in order to take upon Himself the penalty of death we owe for our sin. The reality is, we do not deserve His blessings.

Jesus paid the price for mankind’s sin – How did He do this? By willingly being born on the earth as a baby for the purpose of saving us. God sent His only Son to suffer and die for the sin of the world. Man is undeserving of this perfect sacrifice, yet because of God’s mercy, those who accept Christ as their Lord and Savior are washed clean of their sin.

Now, let’s consider the last question – What does this mean for us? – which fits beautifully into this time of year as we celebrate Christmas. In our culture, the holidays are all about Santa Claus and presents. As a Christian, this season is about remembering the birth of Jesus, the greatest gift ever given to mankind.

Read Titus 3:3-7, then let’s concentrate on the last verse of this passage.

Titus 3:3-7 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.

Jesus was 100% God and man at the same time, choosing to live as man to fulfill being the perfect sacrifice. Without God’s kindness working in our heart to understand Him and recognize our need for a Savior, we would be eternally lost, without any real hope now and without hope for the future.

Those who believe are justified by His grace. Being justified means we have been freed from the penalty of our sin. Where sin once controlled us, now we are free from its power. Because of Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection, we are declared righteous in Him. This is not because we deserve God’s blessing but only because of God’s grace. God’s grace alone allows us the benefit of His favor; we receive His blessings because of Jesus’ work on the cross. God’s grace allows a sinner’s heart to accept Jesus’ sacrifice and receive eternal life. Salvation is a gift given freely and must be accepted freely. There is nothing we can do to earn it and we certainly do not deserve it.

Romans 3:24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;

Because of Jesus, we have been made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. When you are an heir, you share in something given by another. Accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior makes you a child of God and an heir of Heaven.

Galatians 4:6-7 Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.

The section of scripture in Titus 3:3-7, is the Gospel. Five important truths to consider:

The meaning of GRACE – undeserved blessings from God

Who MAN is – a sinner who cannot save himself.

Who GOD is – perfect and holy yet choosing to extend mercy towards sinful men.

Who CHRIST is and what He did for us – Jesus Christ is 100% God; He was born to the earth in human form. He willingly suffered for men in order to save them from eternal separation from God; Jesus died to save men from the penalty of sin and arose from the dead claiming victory over the power of sin.

What FAITH is – believing without seeing; fully trusting in God’s plan of redemption and accepting His gift of forgiveness through His only Son Jesus. Saving faith is trusting in Jesus alone for salvation.

What does the truth of our redemption through Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection, mean for us? Forgiveness for sins, hope for the future, and joy inexpressible.

John 15:11 "These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.

Romans 5:1-2 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.

1Peter 1:8-9 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

Luke 2:7-11 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

We need Jesus’ perfect sacrifice to redeem our souls to righteousness. When we accept the gift of His undeserved favor towards us, we stand as His children, holy and acceptable to God the Father. Then we have the promise of everlasting life with our Savior in Heaven. Thank you God for the most precious gift of Your only Son; all because You love us beyond measure.

What Did Jesus Do For You?

Imagine owing billions of dollars to someone and your very life as a slave forever, then you receive notice that not only is your debt paid in full, but you have been left more than you need and the person who paid your debt has given their life for yours. This is unimaginable, yet it is what God did in Jesus for you.

Why do we need Jesus?

What did He do?

How did He do it?

What does it mean for us?

How would you answer the questions above? Do you agree that you need Jesus or are you unsure? Are you able to say what He did or how, or why it was necessary? Does the understanding of these answers change your life at all?

This is the second of four studies written for an assisted living center about an hour from where I live. Once a month, I drive to this facility and we have a Bible study together.

Last month we addressed the first question of Why we need Jesus. Our answer was found in the first verse of this section of scripture. Titus 3:3 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. The words used in this description of ourselves seem a bit strong however, upon a closer look at them, we were able to understand the ways in which we are foolish and disobedient. The conclusion is that we desperately need a Savior, and His name is Jesus.

Today, we will seek to answer the question of, What did He do?

Titus 3:4-5a But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for Mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness,

First, we must consider the kindness of God. What is the kindness of God? We may easily think of kindness in the way which we might try to treat one another. The word kindness in our English dictionary means “the quality of being warmhearted and considerate and humane and sympathetic”. It is having a tendency to be kind and forgiving; we might think of someone doing a kind act for someone else. Perhaps this would be acting nice or choosing to help someone who is rather difficult. Often, when we act in kindness towards others we are reciprocated with like kindness.

The kindness of God is a bit different. Kindness is part of God’s character – He is kindness personified! The Greek word from which it was translated, means usefulness, morally, excellence in character or demeanor; gentleness, goodness. The root of this word means to furnish what is needed; to act towards one in a given manner.

Well, God knows exactly what we need! And He is the only one who could supply the necessary atonement for our sin – His only Son, Jesus. God’s kindness towards mankind is needed. Unlike us, God executes His kindness perfectly! Without His kindness, there is no hope for our fallen description in Titus 3:3.

Are you willing to recognize you cannot be perfect? No amount of hard work, or dedication to doing the right things, is able to replace the need of God’s act of kindness through His Son.

Do we see the kindness of God in our daily lives? His blessings surround us each moment. Consider the air you breathe; the beauty in nature; the resource of food and water; the protection from a close call of falling, or when you were younger, that near accident on the road. It is God’s kindness for mankind that allows us to see our sin, understand our need, and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Without God’s kindness working in our heart, we would be eternally lost, separated from Him forever.

Romans 2:4 Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?

Romans 11:22 Behold then the kindness and severity of God; to those who fell, severity, but to you, God's kindness, if you continue in His kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off.

Ephesians 2:7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

Consider. The impact of our kindness might be an encouragement to others; however it will have no lasting value on their eternal position. On the flip side, we need the kindness of God which leads to our salvation; His kindness furnishes us with certain hope for the future where once we had no hope at all. God displays His great kindness to us regardless of our undeservedness. We bring nothing to the table; everything is dependent on Him. The verse we just read in Ephesians 2:7 speaks of ‘the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us’.

God’s grace shown through His kindness: His blessings because Jesus paid our debt. Imagine owing billions of dollars to someone and your very life as a slave forever, then you receive notice that not only is your debt paid in full, but you have been left more than you need and the person who paid your debt has given their life for yours. This is unimaginable, yet it is what God did in Jesus for you.

Ephesians 2:1-2 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 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.

We are not to think lightly of God’s kindness towards us. Titus 3:4 speaks of God’s love for mankind. Have you ever truly considered what God’s love is, or what it means? God’s love, in the context of this verse, is the fondness He has for mankind which is shown through His kindness. God’s love towards man is essential in His grace and mercy given to us through Jesus. God’s love is the catalyst of our salvation. God delights in His creation; He formed man (Genesis 2:7), and rejoiced at the work of His hands. When man sinned, God’s love for us determined a way to repair our relationship with Him. God’s love was shown in the sacrifice of His only Son, to redeem mankind for Himself. This kind of love is more than we can comprehend; it is greater than our mind can grasp.

“God loves man; he delighted in the idea when formed in his own infinite mind, he formed man according to that idea, and rejoiced in the work of his hands; when man fell, the same love induced him to devise his redemption, and God the Saviour flows from God the Philanthropist. Where love is it will be active, and will show itself. So the philanthropy of God appeared, it shone out, in the incarnation of Jesus Christ, and in his giving his life for the life of the world”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Look at our text again –

Titus 3:4-5a But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness,

Titus 2:11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men,

Hebrews 9:26 Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.

It is vitally important to understand who God is, who man is, and the reason we need to be saved. We were created for God’s glory, yet we have inherited a sinful nature from Adam; we are weak and imperfect, controlled by the desire to please ourselves rather than please God in obedience. God is perfect and although He loves us, He cannot tolerate sin. The penalty for our sin is eternal separation from God.

Stop for just a moment and consider what eternal separation from God means – a world void of blessings, goodness, and kindness. It is a world without love; a world filled with sin and hatred, pain and confusion, evil and fear; no breaks, no moments of happiness, no future.

God, because of His love for us, sent His only Son Jesus, to be the perfect sacrifice and payment for our sin. It might be easy to think we are not that bad, yet every thought we have which is prideful, or degrading towards another; every time we fail to reach out and help others, every time we put our own needs first or seek our own praise, we disobey God. Our thoughts and actions are controlled by the power of sin unless we recognize our fallen state and humbly accept the gift of Jesus’ death. No number of good things we might do will save us. It is impossible to save ourselves. Think! Try as hard as you might to only have kind thoughts and actions for the next 24 hours. If you are honest, you will recognize your inability to be sinless. We naturally want our own way.

When we understand God’s love towards us, that we are justified only by His mercy and grace, we will be motivated to love others with compassion and kindness. Our acceptance as God’s children is possible only because of His love; the application of God’s love for us is seen in His Son, through His death and resurrection for mankind; the effect of God’s love gives us His Holy Spirit as our guide, growing the reflection of God’s love in our heart towards others for His glory. Read the beginning of Paul’s letter to Titus.

Titus 1:1-3 Paul, a bond-servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the faith of those chosen of God and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness, in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago, but at the proper time manifested, even His word, in the proclamation with which I was entrusted according to the commandment of God our Savior,

Paul understood God’s love and kindness shown through Jesus. He understood what it meant to be saved from the power of sin in his own life. This understanding moved him to action. How about you – do you understand the kindness and love God offers? Have you recognized your need for a Savior? How has this understanding affected your actions towards others?

2Timothy 1:8-10 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,

1Timothy 2:1-4 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

1Timothy 4:10 For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.

We will dig deeper into Titus 3:5 in our next time together. Until then, contemplate God’s kindness and love for you. Through His Son, salvation is offered to all who will trust in His name – not because it is deserved but because of God’s mercy and grace. The gift of salvation, hope for eternal life in heaven with Jesus and complete forgiveness for sin, is not something we earn; it is a gift freely given and must be freely accepted.

Why Do We Need Jesus?

We need Jesus! He alone is the Truth and Life. Jesus paid for our sins and gives us peace. Because of Him, we have hope; in Him we find strength to continue on. Without Jesus, there is no lasting joy.

Why do we need Jesus?

What did He do?

How did He do it?

What does it mean for us?

Today, we will look at the first verse in this section of scripture. This verse in Titus 3:3, gives us some information of why we need help. It will guide us in our answer to the question of ‘Why we need Jesus’. It says, “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”. If we just quickly read this, we might think we cannot relate so therefore, we are not guilty. But look a little closer, be willing to let God examine your heart.

Consider – what does it mean to act foolishly? Have you ever acted foolishly?

The word foolish in this verse means to act without intelligence, to be unwise. I think of the many times I might act without knowing or trying to understand all the facts of a situation. And unfortunately, as we get busier or older, we may not hear every word shared or all of the details, then we can make a comment based on partial information, or what we think was said, which often leads to a foolish comment. Or how about the times you have made a hasty decision based on your feelings at the moment; have you ever regretted a decision you have made?

Have you ever been disobedient? We are disobedient whenever we know what we should do and refuse to do it. For example we are to be kind – do we always share kind words or offer kind actions?

How about being deceived? This means to go astray, to wander, to be seduced, to go out of the way of truth and safety. It is being enticed toward doing the wrong thing. Perhaps this can be akin to peer pressure!

When we read the phrase, “enslaved to various lusts and pleasures”, pay attention to the first word – enslaved. What holds your attention and thoughts captive? This is what you are enslaved to. All sorts of things can catch our attention and become our purpose. However, we are to live for God, no one and nothing should come before Him. Do we readily think of what God wants or what we want; do we truly seek to put His desire for us above our own wants?

“Spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another” seems to be rather drastic. Most of us would quickly say we are not guilty of this! However, think of those times when you might have passed your time thinking thoughts of jealousy, or being hateful in your actions. Have you ever purposefully ignored someone else or perhaps you have thought that their concerns or opinions were ‘stupid’ or unimportant? When we are envious, we think of ourselves more highly than others.

Ephesians 2:1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,

Psalm 14:1 The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, they have committed abominable deeds; There is no one who does good.

Genesis 6:12 God looked on the earth, and behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way upon the earth.

It is easy to understand we all fall short of perfection. No matter how good we might try to be, we get entangled in sin and act unbecomingly towards others and towards God. Because of our weakness and the power of sin in our lives –

We need help, we need Jesus!

Jesus is the truth. Without Jesus we cannot know the truth.

Colossians 2:3 [Christ Himself,] in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

Ephesians 4:21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus,

Jesus gives us life. We are all going to die. Then what? In Jesus, we have eternal life in heaven.

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Jesus paid the penalty for our sins. We just looked at how sinful we are. There is no question we are in deep trouble without a Savior. His name is Jesus!

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Jesus is peace. Look around and it is easy to see the strife in this world! People can get upset and bothered over almost anything. When difficult things happen, often the first reaction is to feel troubled. But with Jesus we can have peace even when we don’t understand.

Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Jesus is our hope.

1Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

Jesus gives us strength.

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Jesus is our joy. Everything found in the world only gives temporary happiness because all things pass away and change. But in Jesus we have joy even in the midst of turmoil.

John 15:11 "These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.

What will you do with these truths from the Bible? Do you recognize that you need Jesus?

In our next look at Titus Chapter 3, we will answer the question of what Jesus did for us. Until then, recognize your need and come before Him with a heart of humility. Ask for His forgiveness and be thankful for His love for you.

A Delightful Inheritance

You will be able to see His faithfulness as He blesses your desire to live for His glory. You will be able to see His love as He matures you in your trust as you walk through circumstances that are challenging.

God is our Protector. Everything good is from God. Delight is found in serving one another. Choosing to not follow God will end in sorrow. God will give us all we need, He is our inheritance, and we are sustained by Him. These are truths from Psalm 16:1-5 which we have learned. We continue to look at our heritage, or inheritance, in verse 6.

Psalm 16:6 The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.

David is referring to the previous verse, Ps 16:5 – the full portion of his inheritance in Christ – and is giving his testimony of God’s blessings and faithfulness; He is witnessing to the truth of God’s love. The ‘lines’ are his measured portion or inheritance. David uses a term that is familiar to his readers at the time – measuring lines were used in the distribution of the land among the Israelites when their land was divided by lots. David’s lot, or life, is blessed with the presence and knowledge of God.

Consider the defining terms from Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary of the words and phrases in this verse:

Lines (chebel), a rope, a measuring line; by implication, an inheritance

Have fallen to me (naphal), to cast down, to be accepted, to cause, to present

Pleasant places (na’iym), delightful, pleasant, sweet

Re-wording the first part of verse 6 using the defined terms reads like this –

My inheritance in Christ has been presented to me and it is delightful.

David’s words in Psalm 16:6 are part of his testimony of God’s work and faithfulness. It is evidence of what he has seen; it supports the truth of God’s faithfulness.

In what ways do you see God’s faithfulness in your life?

What evidence do you have that He is working in you?

The inheritance we have in Christ is something we claim now and look forward to in the future. Through Jesus’ death on the cross we are justified – made right through His payment for our sin. While we await heaven, we are being sanctified – which means we are growing in holiness and one day will stand righteous before God. The testimony of God’s work in our lives is ongoing.

Therefore, we should be able to add to our testimony each day. David is experiencing hardship at the time of this writing, yet we see him looking to God with confidence and hope. He looks to God for his portion and happiness. He strives to focus on God’s blessings now and in the future. He attributes all he has to God, giving God the glory and honor.

If you are in God’s word, and enjoying fellowship with Him, then you will have recent testimony of His working in your life. You will be able to clearly see His hand directing your choices each day. You will be able to see His faithfulness as He blesses your desire to live for His glory. You will be able to see His love as He matures you in your trust as you walk through circumstances that are challenging.

How does the knowledge of God’s faithfulness affect your outlook on things?

When you think of the future and the place Jesus has secured for you in heaven for eternity, how does it change your concern for circumstances in your life today?

Periodically, our economy takes a nosedive. When this happens, most everyone is affected or at least knows of someone who is affected in some way. Either by the loss of a job, loss of income, loss of equity in investments, and so on. During these times, there are reports of individuals who become severely depressed, even committing suicide, because of their sudden losses. Many people have an inability to cope with the idea of not being in control of their future. This happens when security is placed in the things of this world, the stuff we have on earth.

Consider – what is the one thing that does not change?

How secure is your future? Are you able to support your answer?

“Our Lord was poorer than we are, for he had not where to lay his head, and yet when he mentioned his poverty he never used a word of murmuring; discontented spirits are as unlike Jesus as the croaking raven is unlike the cooing dove… The sense of our Father's love is like honey at the end of every rod; it turns stones into bread, and water into wine, and the valley of trouble into a door of hope”, The Treasury of David.

Psalm 16:6 The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.

A heritage is something inherited. To inherit means to receive something when somebody dies, to become the owner of what was theirs to give.

What happened when Jesus died on the cross?

Colossians 1:19-22 For it was the [Father's] good pleasure for all the fulness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, [I say], whether things on earth or things in heaven. And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, [engaged] in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach—

What happens when someone accepts the free gift of God offered through His Son’s death?

Ephesians 1:11-14 also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ should be to the praise of His glory. In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation--having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of [God's own] possession, to the praise of His glory.

Ephesians 1:18-19a [I pray that] the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

Our heritage is described as beautiful. In Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary, this comes from the word shaphar, which literally means to glisten. Our future shines brightly! There is no question to the outcome of our future. We have the assurance that it will be bright.

What is your response to this truth? How does this information affect your thoughts? Your actions? Your purpose? Your disposition?

Pray for Ukraine

“The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?”

When David is encamped on all sides by his aggressors, he prays and makes his appeal to God. He rests in the hope he has for his future.

Psalm 17:8-11 “Keep me as the apple of the eye; hide me in the shadow of Thy wings, from the wicked who despoil me, my deadly enemies, who surround me. They have closed their unfeeling [heart]; with their mouth they speak proudly. They have now surrounded us in our steps; they set their eyes to cast [us] down to the ground”. The Psalmist’s conclusion through persecution is written in the last verse – “As for me, I shall behold Thy face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with Thy likeness when I awake” (v. 15).

Below are excerpts from Christianity Today, dated February 24, 2022. As Russia Invades Ukraine, Pastors Stay to Serve, Pray … a...... | News & Reporting | Christianity Today

“Please pray about Ukrainian Christians, that we will serve and live as the community of hope in a full sense of this term; that during these terrible times we would ignite more and more people to the relationships with God and His children, to the relationships of love, hope, encouragement, support; that our minds and characters would continue to transform into the character of Jesus Christ”, Taras Dyatlik.

Igor Bandura, vice president of the Baptist Union, conveys his supervisor’s two main prayer requests. “First, to stop the aggressor,” he said, “But then for peace of mind, to respond with Christian character and not from human hate.”

Vasyl Ostryi, a pastor at Irpin Bible Church 18 miles northwest of Kyiv, “When this is over, the citizens of Kyiv will remember how Christians have responded in their time of need,” he wrote for The Gospel Coalition. “We will shelter the weak, serve the suffering, and mend the broken. And as we do, we offer the unshakable hope of Christ and his gospel.”

The president of Ukraine Evangelical Theological Seminary outside Kyiv sent out this message to his students as they were instructed to shelter in place while military battled at a nearby airport, “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?”, from Psalm 27.

The quotes and stories above are sobering. How often do we in the United States remember to thank God for religious freedom? We are allowed to share the gospel publicly, own Bibles, commentaries, and religious books of all sorts. We meet in homes and in buildings, gather in groups large and small, and worship God in song and prayer; we have access to in-depth teaching of God’s written word.

Notice the concerns of those in the above interviews. Little is about self and personal safety; nothing is about comfort; most is about opportunities to share hope and encouragement and to be a true witness of Jesus’ character.

This is the bigger picture, the greater picture. We can become so concerned and derailed by small inconveniences, that our focus and perspective is lost. Is our push, our ‘fight’, and our direction, the one given by God or is it fueled by personal affronts, fear of government encroachment upon our beliefs, and a sense of deservedness?

The believers in Ukraine are praying to survive real persecution. In Russia, speaking of the gospel and mentioning God in any public setting, other than in a designated church building which has been given permission to function by the government, is outlawed. And this is the country which threatens to subdue Ukraine.

As we pray for Ukraine, I wonder that we should take a close look at the example of those Christians quoted above. Right now the only real attack we face is the one which comes from selfishness and sin within. Would we be able to survive a real threat from the outside?

Please join me in prayer for Christians in Ukraine. As you read these passages from the Bible, consider your own response to difficulties. Through Christ, in all circumstances, we can have peace, comfort, confidence, security, protection, contentment, strength, assurance, perseverance, and hope. Let’s pay attention to encouraging one another in our time of peace; this practice will be a help in our time of trouble.

Psalm 23:4-6, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me”.

Psalm 27:3-4, “Though a host encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war arise against me, in [spite of] this I shall be confident. 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”.

Psalm 34:7-9, “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them. O taste and see that the LORD is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! O fear the LORD, you His saints; for to those who fear Him, there is no want”.

Isaiah 41:10 'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'

Isaiah 54:17 "No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD”.

Read Paul’s words to the church in the midst of persecution and affliction – 2Thessalonians 3:3-5, “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil [one.] And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will [continue to] do what we command. And may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ”.

John 10:27-28 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand”.

Focus Heavenward

Amazing Love!

Stone upon stone a temple is built; Christ’s church is built with the souls which are alive in Him.

1 Peter 2:5 continues with the metaphor of living stones as a description of the believers being addressed. In the previous verse Christ is the living stone, a foundation offering life and hope. Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, those who have trusted in Him have life and purpose.

1 Peter 2:5 you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

A spiritual house is quite different than a stone temple. The temple had been the center of worship and had offered a symbolic righteousness before God through elaborate sacrifices performed by priests. It was made of material which could be destroyed. A spiritual house is made of living persons, souls belonging to Christ. It is the church of God, built of living stones, upon the living foundation of Jesus. Stone upon stone a temple is built; Christ’s church is built with the souls which are alive in Him.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

Read the encouragement from Paul to the church at Ephesus, “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God's household, having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner [stone], in whom the whole building, being fitted together is growing into a holy temple in the Lord”, Ephesians 2:19-21.

A holy priesthood refers back to those men held in high esteem which offered sacrifices in the temple grounds. However, with Christ’s finished work for the atonement for sin, He is our great high priest and “every Christian is in fact a priest, and is engaged in offering an acceptable sacrifice to God”, (ref. Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary).

Hebrews 4:14, Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.

The intercession of Old Testament priests is no longer needed, the ultimate sacrifice has been offered and our transgressions paid in full.

Hebrews 9:12, and not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.

Now each person who stands on the righteousness of Christ is in a sense a priest, offering daily sacrifices of worship.

Revelation 1:6, and He has made us [to be] a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him [be] the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Spiritual sacrifices, rather than the blood of animals, are now offered to God through Jesus, with a heart of thanksgiving and worship. Christ’s death and resurrection were the ultimate sacrifice, no other atonement for sin is needed. A believer is part of God’s family, his spiritual house, and is to live according to God’s word, offering all to Him as worship.

“The proper idea of a priest is one who offers sacrifice; but the ministers of the New Testament have no sacrifices to offer--the one great and perfect oblation for the sins of the world having been made by the Redeemer on the cross”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary. Our sacrifice is not one of atonement for sin as it was in the Old Testament, since the full price has been paid in Christ. Instead, we offer sacrifice of worship, only acceptable through Christ as our intercessor, in living a holy life. Those who believe in Him have been created for a purpose – to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Those under Old Testament Law offered physical sacrifices for atonement of their sins; we now offer spiritual sacrifices of worship out of gratitude for the life we have in Christ.

Romans 12:1 I urge you therefore, 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.

1Corinthians 3:9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building.

Hebrews 13:15-16 Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. And do not neglect doing good and sharing; for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

We are to ‘offer up’ <anaphero>, to take up, to bear, to bring, to give our lives as a sacrifice of praise to God. Our greatest example is Christ. The Apostle explains this further along in 1 Peter 2:21-24, For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH; and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting [Himself] to Him who judges righteously; and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

Look again at Hebrews 13:15-16. A spiritual sacrifice, instead of being an outward act, begins from within. Our entire self is to be surrendered to God. This means our will is given up for His; God is on the throne as we live for Him. We push sin away and resist the pull of our fleshly passions. With our lips we offer praise – words of thanksgiving to God. I wonder how many of us are quite willing to speak of God at church, in a Bible study, or with those we know are like minded. But our lips close to the things of God when there might be a price to pay, when we fear what others may think of us. We readily talk of our interests, our families, and our work. We often boldly share our opinions and our thoughts, but when it comes to speaking Truth publicly, we remain silent.

Do you confess your hope of Christ?
What is the fruit of your lips?
Are you willing to loudly sing your praise to God in a worship service or alone at home but then leave your worship where it is comfortable?

The KJV of Hebrews 13:16 is rendered, “But to do good and to communicate forget not”. We are to meet the needs of the ‘one-another’s’. We are to speak of God’s praise continually. In Alexander Maclaren’s Expositions of Holy Scripture for 1 Peter 2:5, he makes these statements worthy of thought – “your praying and singing praises are worse than useless unless you go out into the world an embodiment and an imitation of the love which you hymn”, … “Do not talk about being the priests of the Most High God unless you are doing the priestly office of representing God to men, and carrying to them the blessings that they need. Your service to God is worthless unless it is followed by diligent, fraternal, wise, self-sacrificing service for men”, (biblehub.com).

1Peter 4:11 Whoever speaks, [let him speak,] as it were, the utterances of God; whoever serves, [let him do so] as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Do you serve Christ in holiness and righteousness?
Do you offer the spiritual sacrifices of a broken heart and contrite spirit? Of thanksgiving and praise?
Do you daily come to Christ, in faith, seeking to serve Him for His glory?

A priest is one who is engaged in the holy service of God. A priest offers worship to God. Today, we think of priests as those who have the authority to perform religious rituals and fulfill the duties of a particular religion. However, all those who have bowed before Jesus as their Lord and Savior are engaged in the holy service of God and are set apart to offer their lives as worship to Him.

1Peter 2:9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR [God's] OWN POSSESSION, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

Psalm 51:15-17 O Lord, open my lips, that my mouth may declare Thy praise. For Thou dost not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; Thou art not pleased with burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.

Look again at 1 Peter 2:4. Christ was rejected by men but choice and precious in the sight of God. If you know Jesus as your Savior and Lord, you have been chosen by the God of the universe, the God of all things created, visible and invisible, to bring glory to His name.

John 15:16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask of the Father in My name, He may give to you.

Ephesians 1:4-6, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.

We are inexpressibly precious and valuable because we were created to bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. This is difficult to comprehend, knowing our weakness to sin, yet it is true. The words of the hymn “And Can it Be” by Charles Wesley, come to mind:

“And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Savior’s blood? Died He for me who caused His pain – For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be, that Thou, my God, shouldst die for Me?”

Ephesians 2:4-10 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly [places], in Christ Jesus, in order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

It is all too easy to answer the questions asked previously with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’. I can personally slide my way out of total honesty by doing so. In order to avoid this, I have to answer questions that require a heartfelt explanation on my part. If I answer yes, then I must be able to explain how. If I answer no, then I must be willing to consider change.

How do you serve Christ in holiness and righteousness?

How do you offer the spiritual sacrifices of a broken heart and contrite spirit? Of thanksgiving and praise?
How do you daily come to Christ, in faith, seeking to serve Him for His glory?

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

Celebrate Christ

“Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you, and therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you”.

The season of Christmas is upon us! Christmas is a cultural tradition but for those who believe in Jesus Christ, it is a celebration of His birth! Our family has recently been blessed with a new birth. This little boy, now three months old, gulps his milk without taking a breath. He acts as if he is starving. This is a great picture of what our longing for Jesus should look like. As you celebrate the traditions and Truth of Christmas, I pray your desire for the word grows. As you have opportunities to share the gift of Christ’s birth, I pray you also share the sacrifice of His death for us. There is great cause for celebration – because of God’s gift of grace in our lives, because of the faith He alone gives, because of Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection, we have hope now and for the future. Celebrate Christmas!

1Peter 2:2-3 like newborn babes, long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.

We will look at the condition of our growth first, which is stated in verse three – if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord. Peter is not questioning his audience about their salvation; he is stating what the result should be because they have experienced God’s kindness. It is important for us to always remember it is only because of God’s grace in our lives that we know Him; it is only because of His work that we are able to grow in our faith and understanding of Him.

Consider how you might become discouraged with someone when you are trying to share Truth. It is disappointing when they do not understand what is so clear to you. Hopefully, you can respond with a spirit of compassion for their lost state and a spirit of gratitude for God’s work in opening your eyes and heart to Himself. The new Christians Peter is writing to have tasted God’s kindness. They have experienced the grace of God.

What happens when you taste something delicious? A desire is developed in us to repeat what we experienced; therefore we want more! There are thousands of companies that will offer a ‘free trial’ of something in order for you to sample their product. They know if you try it and like it, you are more likely to buy it. This is basic marketing, and it is built on a premise that we will want to repeat a positive experience.

When we are called by Christ to understand who He is, and we recognize His work and blessings in our lives, we will desire to know more. Consider the past trials in your life. Perhaps someone pointed you towards God and reminded you of the peace He offers. When you felt weak as if you could not go on, you may have experienced God’s strength and the rest that is found in Him alone. When you truly understand God as your source of peace and strength, you will seek Him.

What is your response to His grace in your life?

Tasting <geuomai> means to experience. We often relate experience to a feeling. Yet, it is much more. WordWeb defines experience as “the accumulation of knowledge or skill that results from direct participation in events or activities; the content of direct observation or participation in an event”.

To taste of God’s kindness is to know for certain of His work in your life because you have seen His power and experienced His peace in your heart.

You develop an expectation built from what has happened in the past. Your trust in Him deepens and your love for Him grows.

Remembering how God has worked in the past will grow your confidence in the plans He has for your future.

In Psalm 34:8 the word taste means to perceive,

“O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!”

Are you aware of God’s blessings?
Do you take the time to recognize His hand in your life?

1 Peter 2:3 speaks of tasting the kindness of God. What is God’s kindness? The KJV uses the word gracious. It is translated from chrestos meaning goodness, gracious or kind. It comes from the root word, chraomai, which means to furnish what is needed.

God will provide to His children all that is needed, and often, so much more. The Brethren NT Commentary makes this comment on 1 Peter 2:3, “If they had ever felt the unparalleled mercy, peace, love and forgiveness of the Lord, they would not hesitate to lay aside all the evil and desire all the good”. Think upon the kindness of God, the mercy He continually extends towards His children.

Psalm 86:15 But Thou, O Lord, art a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth.

Psalm 136 is filled with thanksgiving to God for His mercies and recounts the Israelites sojourning through the wilderness and their release from captivity. God has extended His mercy to you and has released you from the captivity of sin. Consider what it means to be controlled by sin. Look at the world around you, the thinking and actions. What was the driving force in your own life before you were saved?

When we think of being kind, we might consider the quality of someone who is considerate and warm, thoughtful, and sympathetic; someone who shows tenderness and is helpful to others.

The kindness of God is so much more. It reaches to the lowest depths, to those most unworthy, even to those who blaspheme in return. His lovingkindness extends to those who are ungrateful and wicked.

Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil [men].

God’s kindness is purposed for our repentance.

Romans 2:4 Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?

Isa 30:18 Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you, and therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you. For the LORD is a God of justice; How blessed are all those who long for Him.

Ephesians 2:4-7

If you are God’s child, you have been pardoned; you are favored. When you taste the kindness of the Lord, your desire grows to know Him more. William Burkitt New Testament notes says, “It is but a taste of the sweetness of God and His word which a Christian partakes of in this life; satiety and satisfaction are reserved for another state”. This commentary reminds us that right now we see only a small example of God’s care for us; we will one day be fully engulfed in His perfect love.

Because you have tasted the kindness of the Lord,

You will put aside all malice, all guile, hypocrisy, envy, and all slander (1 Peter 2:1), and

You will, like newborn babes, long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation (1 Peter 2:2).

This is a great visual. Just as a newborn infant automatically turns its head towards its mother’s milk, a new believer will have an appetite for Truth. Picture an infant latching on to its mother’s breast. Their desire for milk is strong and their cry for it will pierce ears; once they are attached to their source of nourishment, they literally hang on! A baby or child instinctively wants to be close to those who will provide what is needed. If a newborn is not fed the proper nourishment, it will have a difficult time thriving. If a child does not receive enough calories, their brain development is affected. Many studies have documented that language development, memory, and IQ, are lower in children with poor nutrition. A child simply trusts, without questioning or analyzing, that their needs will be provided. A Christian, in order to make steady progress and expand in their knowledge and understanding of Christ, needs constant nourishment in the truth of God’s word.

The pure milk of the word – the spiritual truths of the gospel – is in direct contrast to those things listed in 1 Peter 2:1, malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.

We are to desire God’s word as earnestly as a newborn yearns to be fed. The sin that once enticed us is replaced by the desire for spiritual nourishment from God’s truth. Matthew Poole’s NT Commentary states the comparison of verses 1 and 2, pointing out that longing for Truth is “in opposition to their former corrupt and unregenerate state, in which they were destitute of all spiritual life; and so this agrees, not only to young converts, but generally to all regenerate persons”.

We are in a life-long process of growing and maturing in our spiritual knowledge and understanding.

Romans 12:1 I urge you therefore, 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 6:13 and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin [as] instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness to God.

The word of God is our food for growth.

Ephesians 4:13-15 until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fulness of Christ. As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves, and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all [aspects] into Him, who is the head, [even] Christ,

“That is to say, if we be indeed believers, God has bestowed upon us a spiritual and incorruptible life; therefore, let us have done with the evil fruits of the old nature. We are born into a new world, let us cast aside the defiled and leprous garments of our former condition. Anger, deceit, and slander are as unbecoming in a Christian as the cerements of the grave would be unfit for a living man. It is ours, henceforth, to live upon the truth and to practice it, to rejoice in a gracious God, and act graciously ourselves. We desire to know the word of God, that by its sustaining power the life within us may be nurtured and made to advance to perfection”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

Do you crave God’s truths more than anything else? Describe your craving. What does it look like? How do you satisfy it?
Do you want to understand and know Jesus more so you can serve Him well? How are you engaged in learning more about your Savior? How has this affected your serving?
Do you look to the unadulterated word of God, the pure truth written for us, without adding or subtracting? This means there is no excuse. The challenge is to act according to His word no matter the circumstances. So if you are insulted, offended, treated unfairly, bothered, or hurt, your response is to trust God and live to honor Him. In addition, we seek to follow God’s word even though it may be difficult. We do not choose some or part and ignore what we do not like or what does not fit our lifestyle.

1 Peter 2:23-24 and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting [Himself] to Him who judges righteously; and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

I pray you continue to grow in your fervency for His word. I pray your longing is for God’s truths. I pray that you develop an insatiable appetite to know and understand Him. I pray that through His strength and work in your life, you will combat sinful behavior and live to glorify God in all things.

God’s Word, through His Spirit, is the source of understanding and knowledge of His Truths; it is our complete guide to growing in righteousness.

Psalm 19:7-10 The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.

Without Jesus, none of this would matter. We would be unable to comprehend true love. Forgiveness and redemption would be unattainable. Celebrate Christ, God’s gift to the world, given because He loves us!

Be Sober, Be Ready, Be Focused

When we eat food, we nourish our body. When we take in God’s word, we nourish our soul.

1Peter 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober [in spirit,] fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Because of the great privileges we have in Christ, we are to act accordingly. Make it count, use what is available, keep your mind set on the Truth. We have been entrusted with a valuable gift, and we are expected to care for it.

How is your life affected by God’s mercy?
How is your life effective for God’s message?

Three responses are highlighted –

Gird your minds for action,
Keep sober [in spirit],
Fix your hope completely on grace.

The KJV of 1 Peter 1:13 uses the phrase, “gird up the loins of your mind”. This refers to the garments typically worn in the culture of that time. When they traveled or worked, people needed to secure their long robes in order that they did not get in the way. It is preparation for what is at hand. Picture an individual pushing up the long sleeves of their shirt as they tackle a project.

Is your mind ready for action, fortified with Truth?

When we eat food, we nourish our body. When we take in God’s word, we nourish our soul. God’s love is real, trials will come, keep yourself prepared! In present culture this would be like saying ‘keep your head in the game’, or ‘stay focused’. We are to be ready with the blessings God has provided. When we do not remain focused on Christ, we cannot function according to His will.

Ephesians 6:14 Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS,

Our current day definition of the verb ‘gird’ means to prepare oneself for a military confrontation. The word fortify is a good synonym. We are given a challenge to respond correctly using the benefits of our salvation – persevere, take effort to honor God in all things. Those before us payed close attention to the truths that were revealed to them. Family Bible Notes poses this question:

Are you attentive and steadfast in your faith and practice of the gospel?

When you prepare for something, it is a common practice to think ahead of the obstacles that may get in the way. While on this earth as a follower of Jesus, you are being prepared for heaven, your eternal life in God’s presence. There are many things that can hinder your walk with God and your growth in His truths. You must take the necessary steps to avoid those things that will cause you to lose your focus. We need to think ahead of how we will respond to adversity. We have an inheritance reserved for us (1 Peter 1:4); we have a race to run.

Hebrews 12:1 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,

1Corinthians 9:24 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.

The girdle was effectively used to tuck in long robes so that there was no physical hindrance to the work at hand. We need to be ready physically and mentally, hence the wording ‘gird up the loins of your mind’. The word mind is used for understanding and clarity. Matthew 22:37 says, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind”. Notice the word all in this scripture. All your mind is to be engrossed with truth from God’s word, then as you find yourself in the midst of trials (1 Peter 1:6), you will remain steadfast. Read Matthew Henry’s Commentary on girding up your mind, "Wherefore, since you are so honoured and distinguished, as above, gird up the loins of your mind. You have a journey to go, a race to run, a warfare to accomplish, and a great work to do; as the traveller, the racer, the warrior, and the labourer, gather in, and gird up, their long and loose garments, that they may be more ready, prompt, and expeditious in their business, so do you by your minds, your inner man, and affections seated there: gird them, gather them in, let them not hang loose and neglected about you; restrain their extravagances, and let the loins or strength and vigour of your minds be exerted in your duty; disengage yourselves from all that would hinder you, and go on resolutely in your obedience”.

After setting a course of action to be watchful, vigilant, and prepared, our text goes on with the exhortation to “keep sober [in spirit]. When we consider being sober, it is often associated with the effects of over-indulging in alcohol which leaves one lacking in their ability to think or act correctly. To be sober also means to be “dignified and somber in manner or character, committed to keeping promises”, according to WordWeb Dictionary. To keep sober is to see things as they are, while having the ability to respond accordingly.

Do you have an accurate awareness of the spiritual dangers and enemies that threaten to derail your efforts?
Do you show restraint against the thoughts, cares, and affections of this world?

One commentary gives this action, “Be sober-minded in opinion, as well as in practice, and humble in your judgment of yourselves” (MHCC).

Luke 21:34 "Be on guard, that your hearts may not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day come on you suddenly like a trap;

2 Timothy 4:5 But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

1 Thessalonians 5:6 so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober [spirit] for the purpose of prayer.

In light of the on-going events in our nation, with the Covid 19 pandemic, protesting, unrest, and restrictions, we, as Believers, have a charge to careful, concise, and controlled actions that are well-thought and purposed for God’s honor. Here is a quote from the commentary of Thomas Scott regarding 1 Peter 1:13, “… laying aside all carnal prejudices and superfluous cares, with such occupations, desire, and pursuits, as might prevent their clearly understanding, cordially choosing, and cheerfully obeying, the word of truth; and using all means of removing impediments, of invigorating holy affections, and of animating themselves and each other, in diligently serving and patiently suffering for Christ”.

Are you practicing holiness in your thoughts, responses, and actions in the current situation?

It is fitting to take a moment and look a bit deeper into the thought of “laying aside all carnal prejudices and superfluous cares …”. There is a need to act according to what God’s word says regardless of feelings or how something may inconvenience us. There are times when choosing to follow God will set you apart from what might be expected. We cannot allow popular opinion or the threat of being chided to cloud our thinking and decisions. To be sober means we are not allowing any influence other than the Holy Spirit to affect our thoughts, words, and actions. When we practice this, we will inevitably find ourselves asking the question ‘What does God’s word say’.

We keep sober by “fixing our hope completely on the grace to be brought to us at the revelation of Jesus Christ”. Our complete confidence is in God’s grace and the fulfillment of His promises. The hope a believer has is certain. It is trusting with a knowledge of God’s absolute consummation of His word. It is expectation and assurance without exception that your eternal destination is established and secure. Perhaps a good visual is thinking of the difference between nearsightedness and farsightedness. Hope that is fixed on Christ moves our focus from overwhelming concern for the troubles at hand to the overpowering peace of our future.

Are you near-sighted or far-sighted?

You have heard the phrase ‘tunnel vision’. According to one website, it is the tendency to focus exclusively on a single or limited goal or point of view. We do need to be aware of others as we serve, encourage, and share Truth. However, while we do live in this world, we are citizens of Heaven and our focus needs to be centered on Christ alone. We are to fix our hope completely, meaning without wavering, remaining secure and steadfast in the knowledge and understanding of the Gospel.

The only way it is possible to have certain hope that absolutely cannot fail is through God’s grace – His divine influence upon the heart and its reflection in the life of one who believes. Your salvation is secure therefore your hope will be continuous and steady as it remains fixed on the only thing that will never change, Jesus our Lord and Savior. Adam Clarke’s Commentary uses this explanation, we are to “continue to expect all that God has promised, and particularly that utmost salvation, that glorification of body and soul, which ye shall obtain at the revelation of Christ, when He shall come to judge the world”. This truth is a great answer for the question, ‘How can an individual be joy filled in the midst of trials?’ Because the foundation of faith in Christ does not change, the benefit of salvation remains certain.

We are to remain strong in the hope we have in the gospel. When circumstances seem topsy-turvy, when promises are broken, when poor decisions wield their consequences, and even amidst pandemic outbreaks, rioting, county-wide curfews, and all other opposition and temptations, we can still hold close to our hope. This was the charge given to those who were suffering because they had followed the Truth, and it is our charge given from the Word. Hall’s Explication of Hard Texts says, “perfectly and constantly hope for the full accomplishment of that grace and happiness, which partly is and perfectly shall be brought unto you in the revelation of Jesus Christ”.

Back up to 1 Peter 1:3, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. We have a living hope! It is not dead, but active. Fix your hope completely, without wavering.

Are you confident in the promises of Christ?

Hebrews 3:5 Now Moses was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken later; but Christ [was faithful] as a Son over His house whose house we are, if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end.

Romans 15:4, 13 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope … Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

1 Thessalonians 5:8 But since we are of [the] day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation.

Hebrews 6:19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a [hope] both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil,

2 Timothy 4:8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

Hebrews 10:35-36 Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.

APPLY IT!

Keep your mind centered on Christ.
Be careful to respond according to God’s Truths.
Stay focused on the fulfillment of God’s promises and your future in Him.

What actions will you take to ensure you are prepared?

Inexpressible Joy

By faith we love who He is, what He has done. We rejoice in the truths we know. The love we have for God is incomparable to any love we might experience in our human relationships. It is perfect and secure.

We have been saved to obedience. In Christ, we have grace, peace, mercy, a living hope, an inheritance, and protection. Because of these truths we can rejoice through trials. Through trials we have opportunities for our faith to be proven. We have a faith more precious than gold, a faith which will result in glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. In 1 Peter 1:8, we will see that this understanding and knowledge of our faith produces joy.

“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.

Because –

Joy is found in faith (v.8)

1Peter 1:8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,

You have not seen Him
You love Him
You believe in Him
You greatly rejoice

What is faith?

John 20:29 Jesus *said to him, "Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed [are] they who did not see, and [yet] believed."

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of [things] hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

Faith is commanded. 1 John 3:23

Faith is believing in something or someone without seeing. Believing is more than hoping or thinking. It is confident expectation. Read the beginning of 1 Peter 1:8 again, “and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him”, these words define faith in Christ. Peter was writing to those who had not seen Christ in the flesh. Yet, they “loved Him as strongly as any of His disciples could, to whom He was personally known”, (quote from Adam Clarke’s Commentary).

Read of the faith of Abraham in Romans 4:18-21.

As a true believer, the faith you have in Jesus is the same faith exercised by those thousands of years ago. It is the same faith as those who had walked and talked with Him. Saving faith places full trust in the person and work of Jesus Christ. There is room for no one else and nothing else. It is not the compilation of trusting and believing in many entities and hoping one of them is right; it is the single conviction of Jesus as Lord and Savior. This faith is directly a work of God on the heart, it is unexplained and only given by the power and choice of God. Those who have it rejoice in its truth.

1 John 4:19 We love, because He first loved us.

What does it mean to love God?

Matthew 10:37; Matthew 25:35-40; John 8:42; John 14:15,21; 1 Corinthians 16:22

John 15:16 "You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask of the Father in My name, He may give to you.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary gives this insight – “Faith is the subsistence of things hoped for … the demonstration of things not seen … substance becomes a foundation for another thing to stand on … such are the effects of justifying faith: on it subsists the peace of God which passeth all understanding”,

2Corinthians 5:7 for we walk by faith, not by sight—

What does it mean to hope for something?

According to WordWeb, hope is the general feeling that some desire will be fulfilled. Hope for the future is certain when placed at the cross of Christ. “Things hoped for are the peace and approbation of God, and those blessings by which the soul is prepared for the kingdom of heaven. A penitent hopes for the pardon of his sins and the favour of his God; faith in Christ puts him in possession of this pardon, and thus the thing that was hoped for is enjoyed by faith. When this is received, a man has the fullest conviction of the truth and reality of all these blessings though unseen by the eye, they are felt by the heart, and the man has no more doubt of God’s approbation and his own free pardon, than he has of his being”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

We have an absolute hope, a certain hope – this is what it means to believe. Like you and I, the Christians to whom Peter was writing had never seen Jesus. Yet by faith they were able to believe. The foundation of our faith is the same, Christ is unchanging, His work on the cross is for all who believe. Verse 8 says “though you have not seen Him, you love Him”. Consider the ability to love what we have not seen with our eyes. The first thing that comes to my mind is loving a child you have not seen. We experience a heartfelt love for the children we carry. When I found out my grown children were expecting babies, there was an immediate love in my heart for my grandchildren though yet unseen. Barnes’ Notes says these scattered Christians “had heard of His character, His preaching, His sacrifice for sin, and His resurrection and ascension, and they had learned to love Him”.

We have a true, historical, and clear account of our Savior’s birth, life, death, and resurrection, in God’s word. By faith we love who He is, what He has done. We rejoice in the truths we know. The love we have for God is incomparable to any love we might experience in our human relationships. It is perfect and secure. Consider what God has done for you!

He sent His only Son to redeem your soul from eternal damnation.
He is preparing heaven for His children whom He will one day gather to Himself.
He provides protection, guidance, strength, encouragement, hope, and purpose on earth.
He constantly pours blessings upon His children, even though they are undeserving, and even amidst their failures.

What is the result of grace which leads to faith in Christ?

You greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.

To greatly rejoice literally means to jump for joy! It means to be exceedingly glad, to be exultant. It is joy based upon the triumph of Christ’s resurrection and power over sin and death. This joy is so much more than happiness. It is rejoicing in the knowledge of who Christ is and the future that awaits those who believe. The result of true saving faith is joy; a joy that will manifest itself even in the most difficult and trying times.

Psalm 5:11

Has your faith led you to grow in your love for God and His commandments?
Does your faith lead you to obedience and service?
Have you placed your soul trust in Christ alone, fully dependent on Him for your salvation?

Thomas Scott’s Commentary says this of ‘joy inexpressible’, “they derived a joy which was so excellent, holy, substantial, and satisfactory, that it could not be expressed by words … and they shared this joy in proportion to the degree of their living faith and obedient love; whilst they delighted in the salvation which was wrought by Him, and in their enrapturing discoveries of the glory of God, harmoniously anticipating the everlasting felicity of all believers in Christ … This faith, love, and joy, … formed the distinguishing character, of real Christians … amidst their trials and conflicts”.

Matthew 5:12 "Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Read Mary’s words upon believing and trusting in God’s plan, “And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior”, Luke 1:47

Is it your practice to rejoice in God?
Are you resolved to place your confidence in His promises?

It is possible to find joy no matter the circumstances. Joy, when is based on the truths of what we know, does not fluctuate. The conditions of our lives might seem to change frequently and feel a bit unstable. However, the promises of God’s word are unchanging.

Habakkuk 3:17-18 Though the fig tree should not blossom, and there be no fruit on the vines, [Though] the yield of the olive should fail, and the fields produce no food, though the flock should be cut off from the fold, and there be no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will exult in the LORD, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. (when Judah was about to be invaded by the Chaldeans and injustice reigned upon the Jews)

1 Peter 4:12-13; Acts 16:23-25

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

Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!

Does the reflection of God’s grace in your life manifest itself in joy?
Does your joy bring honor to God’s name, does it magnify His glory?

Joy is found in what we know to be true yet cannot see. It comes from the heart rather than only being a reaction to outside circumstances. Read 2 Corinthians 4:17-18. True faith will produce action. It is different than just believing a pool will hold water or an airplane will fly. It is believing in the one true God who is able to do all things, even that which seems impossible in our eyes. It is believing in the majesty and power of God, trusting in His word and His plan. May God’s influence in your heart and the reflection of His love in your life abound. May quietness and joy surround your soul as you rest secure in His truths.

We love God, we believe in God, and we rejoice in His plan – all because of Him.

Ephesians 1:13-14

Proven Faith

There is a difference between simply acknowledging facts versus trusting in them to be true. The first is intellectual assent, the second is heart embraced.

Peter, self-described as an apostle of Jesus Christ, addressed this letter to those who were chosen by God. Peter reminds these Christians they have been saved for a reason – to live in obedience to Christ. They are referred to as aliens, not belonging to this world, but rather having their sights on their eternal home in heaven. Christ’s redemptive work in their lives afforded an abundance of peace even in the midst of a harsh and chaotic world.

The Apostle offered hope to these dispersed Christians in 1 Peter 1:2b, “May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure”. He then proceeded to list the reasons why they could have grace and peace even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Because they have a living hope (v.3)
Because they have an inheritance in heaven (v.4)
Because they are protected by God’s power (v.5)
Because they can rejoice in trials as they focus on the truths he has previously shared.

Peter goes on to explain the reason and benefits of trials. Understanding the purpose of trials causes believers to have joy, not because of hardships, but because of their lasting result. Therefore, joy is experienced through trials because …

Trials prove our faith (v.7)

1Peter 1:7 that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

The blessings of being born again, of our hope because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, the certainty of our heavenly home, and the protection of God’s power to sustain us for salvation, are reasons we can be joyful. Even in the midst of trials and sorrow, nothing is able to touch our glorious future. There is more – trials prove our faith and the proof of our faith is valuable. In fact, the proof of our faith is desirable, something we should want. We do not glory in the difficulty but rejoice in the result.

Is your faith real?

You may think this question has an obvious answer. Yet consider these thoughts.

In order to be real, there must be actual facts that verify the existence of your faith. Words are simply not enough.
Having real faith means you are worthy of bearing the name of Christian – a believer in and follower of Jesus Christ.
Being real, means you do not take your relationship with Christ lightly – it is of utmost importance, permeating all aspects of your life.
Real faith is capable of being treated as fact. In other words, what supports your claim of faith in Christ in your own life? Consider your words, thoughts, actions, purpose.
Genuine faith will produce a character of faith with your desires and motivation focused on pleasing God.
Real faith is literal and will be reflected in the character of one who follows Christ

A faith that is not real will be lacking in its genuineness. It will not correspond to truths in God’s word. There is a difference between simply acknowledging facts versus trusting in them to be true. The first is intellectual assent, the second is heart embraced. Let us look a bit closer at these two possibilities.

Intellectual assent uses the rational mind to decide if something might work or might be true. It involves fact gathering and a conclusion based upon those facts. There is no heart response or life-changing revelation. Intellectual assent is merely the acknowledgement of information to be true. Only knowing who God is will not save you. Man can think so highly of his intellect and reasoning that it becomes difficult to recognize his need of a Savior.

Fully embracing something with your heart involves knowledge with trust. It means understanding the facts and adopting them as your own. It is humbly accepting that you need something and are unable to provide the answer. It is realizing that however intelligent you may be, it is impossible to fully understand God’s ways. We need to minor in self and major in Christ.

True faith is placing your complete trust in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, claiming His sacrifice as your key to heaven. The word faith <pistis> is explained as the moral conviction and reliance upon Christ for salvation. It is the assurance that what God says is true. Therefore, sincere faith involves a confidence in the truth of God’s word. This is only possible through God’s grace working in the lives of His children.

The proof of our faith is more precious than gold. The KJV says it is much more precious than gold. Adam Clarke’s Commentary gives us a clearer understanding of the properties of gold. “Gold is defined by chemists to be the most perfect, the most ductile, the most tenacious, and the most unchangeable of all metals… When exposed to the action of the fire it becomes red hot before it melts, but in melting suffers no alteration; but if a strong heat be applied while in fusion, it becomes of a beautiful green color. The continual action of any furnace, howsoever long applied, has no effect on any of its properties… Gold is so very tenacious that a piece of it drawn into wire, one-tenth of an inch in diameter, will sustain a weight of 500lbs. without breaking”.

James 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have [its] perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

When we seek to glean a small understanding of gold being refined by fire in order to purify it, we can begin to understand the necessity of trials in our lives. In addition, when we understand the reason for trials, our response is thankfulness and peace for the work God is performing in strengthening our faith. Revisit the beginning of this section of scripture. 1 Peter 1:2b May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure. God’s work in your heart, the reflection of His love in your life, a heart of gratitude in understanding the gift of your salvation, and the quietness in your heart that stems from a secure future no matter the turmoil around you, are the hallmarks of a soul that fully relies upon God. This is the precious proof of your faith. Your faith will be tested in one form or another.

Will it be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ?

Job 23:10 "But He knows the way I take; [When] He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

Proverbs 17:3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the LORD tests hearts.

2Thessalonians 1:11-12 To this end also we pray for you always that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power; in order that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Check the genuineness of your faith. Is it mixed with imposters of pride, selfishness, or worldliness? Is it something kept for ‘emergencies’? Is your faith used only as a security blanket?
What is your reaction to trials? Do you persevere in serving God? Do you complain? Do you think “poor me”, desiring others’ attention and pity?
Does your faith sustain your joy in all circumstances?

Read Matthew Poole’s Commentary of 1 Peter 1:7, “He compares the faith of the saints with gold, and argues from the less to the greater … If men do so far esteem their gold, that they will make the excellency and preciousness of it appear by trying it in the fire, which purgeth away the dross, and discovers the goodness of the metal; no wonder if God will have the faith of the saints (more precious to him than gold is to men) tried by afflictions, that the excellency of it may more fully be discovered”.

1Peter 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober [in spirit,] fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

We cannot miss the encouraging words of Jesus’ return. The desire is that our faith, having been tested for its genuineness, will result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 25:31 "But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne.

Acts 1:11 and they also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven."

Heat is applied to gold to rid it of its impurities. Only what is valuable is left after being in the furnace. Yet even pure gold will eventually be worn away. I have a few gold rings, a few more than 100 years old, that belonged to past relatives. You can easily tell which ones were worn constantly because the gold bands have become very thin as they have eroded with time. In contrast, as genuine faith is worn and tested by trials, it only becomes stronger.

1Corinthians 15:57-58 but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 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.

2Timothy 4:7-8 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

“His intention in all is most kind and gracious, namely, that the little trial of your faith, which is far more precious and valuable than that of gold which perishes, and wears out in time, though it be tried with fire, and purified to the highest degree; may be found to praise, and honour, and glory, in the great day of the revelation of Jesus Christ, the divine Author and Finisher of our faith, who having himself endured yet sorer trials, will rejoice to applaud and reward the fidelity of his servants in his cause.” Philip Doddridge N.T.

1 Peter 1:3

Our redeemed lives, every blessing that we see as good and even the life circumstances we do not understand, are to be offerings to God for His glory.

Do you think and act different than the world?

Hopefully, you feel as if you do not belong. Our lives are not about here, they are about heaven. We have been saved for God’s purpose and He is working all things for His pleasure and honor. This truth gives us peace in all circumstances, even in extreme difficulties, because God is in control!

1Peter 1:3 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead”

We have a living hope – a certain expectation of eternal life. This reality helps to keep our time on earth in a right perspective. We deserve nothing yet God has chosen to show us great mercy and compassion. He extended His love to us through the death and resurrection of His Son.

Are you compelled to action? We are to live in praise and gratitude for the gift of our salvation. Our redeemed lives, every blessing that we see as good and even the life circumstances we do not understand, are to be offerings to God for His glory. Read the example of praise given in 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, as David consecrated the building of the temple.

“So David blessed the LORD in the sight of all the assembly; and David said, "Blessed art Thou, O LORD God of Israel our father, forever and ever. "Thine, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth; Thine is the dominion, O LORD, and Thou dost exalt Thyself as head over all. "Both riches and honor [come] from Thee, and Thou dost rule over all, and in Thy hand is power and might; and it lies in Thy hand to make great, and to strengthen everyone. "Now therefore, our God, we thank Thee, and praise Thy glorious name”.”

I pray that today your life is a sweet representation of the hope you have in Christ.

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

Happy New Year

Do you trust in the abundant grace He has extended towards you through His Son?

The challenge – can you look at the past year and praise God for His faithfulness? Amidst illness, death, unemployment, and uncertainty, (and even a shortage of toilet paper!), God remains faithful. When we do not look with eyes that are focused on His sovereignty and perfect plan, we miss clarity.

If you have been to an optometrist, you may recall the process of looking through different lenses as the doctor asks you if 1 or 2, or 3 or 4, is better. The ability to see clearly is valuable – both as we navigate the physical world we live in and as we grow in our spiritual understanding of God. Any eye doctor is able to correct our vision through prescriptive lenses. Only God is able to cause the eyes of our heart to focus on His truths.

Jeremiah penned the book of Lamentations. It is an account of the sorrows of the Jewish nation, of their suffering and misery because they turned from God. Jeremiah also recounts the nations repentance and submission, their prayer and hope of God’s future promises for deliverance. A section in chapter 3 of this book reads, “This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. [They] are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion’, says my soul, ‘therefore I have hope in Him’. The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him”, Lamentations 3:22-25.

Thomas O. Chisholm wrote the words to the hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness”, in 1923 as he contemplated God’s faithfulness over his lifetime. The lyrics were then set to music and almost 100 years later the tune and words are still widely recognized.

Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness,

Morning by morning new mercies I see,

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided,

Great is Thy faithfulness Lord unto me.

We have absolute hope! God is faithful. He shows mercy and compassion towards those He loves. Do you trust in the abundant grace He has extended towards you through His Son? As you seek Him you will be blessed – even through difficulty.

Has your trust in God grown this past year? Have you witnessed souls turn towards His truths? Sometimes we must lose the blessings we have in order to recognize their value. Has your gratefulness increased? Perhaps those things we once expected are now treasured more fully. Difficulty has produced a new endurance and a higher level of thankfulness in many households and relationships. In all this, praise God. He is faithful!

Focus Heavenward.

Keep On keeping On…

Ecclesiastes 3:1, “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven”.

Are we there yet? Is it time yet? We have all heard this, thought this, or said these words. It is a mark of impatience. We can easily become restless and even irritated when things do not happen according to our expectations.

The answer to the above questions is ‘almost’ or ‘hang on just a bit longer’. ‘We will be there soon’. ‘Be patient’. Easier said than done!

God is at work even though we may not see the results. Everything is going exactly according to His plan. Read Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven”.

God has appointed seasons of events just as He has appointed changes in weather. He has purposed all things to happen at a specific time. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow are in God’s control. If you are a child of God, having accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, no worries, He has you under His hand of care. All things pleasant and difficult will be used for your good and His glory.

The opposite of impatience is patience. This is not only tolerating delayed change but accepting it with a cheerful heart attitude. A word we seldom use is longanimous. It means showing patience and self-control under adversity, being slow to retaliate or express resentment.

Psalm 27:14 says, “Wait for the LORD; Be strong, and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD”. And Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it”.

Take a moment, look around you, listen to conversations. How are we doing during this pandemic? As a whole, not so good. But what about you personally, how are you responding to this lengthy time of inconvenience, unknowns, imposed constraints? I pray you are persevering in hope and patience with your eyes fastened on God. How can you encourage those who are in despair? Share God’s promises, speak the Truth.

We are right where we should be at this given moment. Patience and compassion are responses you can choose. Patience because God has the answers and remains in control. Compassion for those who are struggling. Consider, because of God’s grace you are able to have peace and joy no matter the outcome. Those whose hearts are set on the world are noticeably scared, upset, and have lost direction. Be thankful for the opportunities placed before you to share the ultimate gift of love. Be a light in the darkness.

Paul’s words to the Philippians reminds us how we are to act, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life”. (Php 2: 14-16a)

The specific time we are living in has been appointed by God for His purpose. Let us be strong, take courage, and have patience, acting in a manner that honors God. I pray your heart is exceedingly joy filled as you look forward to your future. I can think of no better season than the one we are in right now as we prepare to celebrate God’s love through the gift of His Son. There is hope.

What If …

Anyone who has listened to any news report within the last several days as heard these words. Hours upon hours have been spent speculating the ‘what ifs’. Consider the time, energy and resources that have gone into the ‘science’ of trying to figure out what might happen in this election and how people will respond. This is the epitome of living in uncertainty, without structure and a path to follow. As often as the direction seems to change, the predictions change. This is the world, being thrown to and fro with every passing circumstance. There is another way –

Deuteronomy 32:4 "The Rock! His work is perfect, for all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, righteous and upright is He.

1Samuel 2:2 "There is no one holy like the LORD, indeed, there is no one besides Thee, nor is there any rock like our God.

2Samuel 22:2-3 And he said, "The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my savior, Thou dost save me from violence.

2Samuel 22:47 "The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock; and exalted be God, the rock of my salvation,

Psalm 62:2 He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken.

Isaiah 51:1 "Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness, who seek the LORD: look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the quarry from which you were dug.

Above are just a few of many scriptures referring to God as our Rock. What do we learn from the above scriptures?

God’s work is perfect, just, and faithful.
There is only one who is God, there is no other.
God is our strength, and our protection.
God is alive; in Him is our salvation.
God is our security, our constant in a world of change.
We are to keep our focus on God, remembering His mercies.

Recall Jesus’ words in Matthew 7 –

"Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine, and acts upon them, may be compared to a wise man, who built his house upon the rock. "And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and burst against that house; and [yet] it did not fall, for it had been founded upon the rock. "And everyone who hears these words of Mine, and does not act upon them, will be like a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand. "And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and burst against that house; and it fell, and great was its fall." (v.24-27)

You have two choices – either you build your life upon the Rock or you do not. One will provide security and protection no matter the circumstances surrounding you, the other will result in uncertainty and ruin. As I look around, I am amazed at God’s faithfulness to a faithless people. His love for each individual He created is beyond what we are able to comprehend. Man is sinful, there is no doubt. God is holy, there is no doubt. The suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ provides the bridge between God and man. We need a Savior, and His name is Jesus. You can choose to live in the ‘what ifs’ or you can choose to live in Christ, with your roots and security planted on God, the Rock of our salvation. Protection and purpose for today, and certain hope for eternity is available for all those who place their trust upon the Rock.

Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.

God is in Control

We live in a world that seems out of control. No matter how powerful words or knowledge or position may be, man is unable to direct his cause. We see this evidence all over the world. The year 2020 has proven to be devastating in areas of health, natural resources, the economy, violence, and fear. Our nation is now entering into the additional uncertainty of a presidential election which is forecast to lead to civil unrest no matter the result. People are confused and angry. So how do we respond? What can we do? We use the inerrant word given to us from God rather than relying upon the wisdom of men.

First, focus on the truth that we know – man is out of control; however, the world is under Divine control. Nothing takes place without the knowledge and allowance of God.

Proverbs 21:1 The king's heart is [like] channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes.

Proverbs 5:21 For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He watches all his paths.

Jeremiah 16:17 "For My eyes are on all their ways; they are not hidden from My face, nor is their iniquity concealed from My eyes.

Jeremiah 32:17-19 'Ah Lord GOD! Behold, Thou hast made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power and by Thine outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for Thee, who showest lovingkindness to thousands, but repayest the iniquity of fathers into the bosom of their children after them, O great and mighty God. The LORD of hosts is His name; great in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men, giving to everyone according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds;

Second, there is one certain solution for each of us –

Personally respond to God’s grace given, declaring Christ as your eternal King.
Choose to live in obedience to His commands, and
Seek the peace that comes from knowing God is in complete control.

Ephesians 1:7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace,

Psalm 34:14 Depart from evil, and do good; Seek peace, and pursue it.

Romans 14:19 So then let us pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.

Third, recognize that nothing will happen or has happened without His perfect knowledge and plan. Our understanding of His plan is not required. However, we are to accept His sovereignty over the earth. This response brings peace in the midst of an unsettled heart and nation.

Deuteronomy 4:39 "Know therefore today, and take it to your heart, that the LORD, He is God in heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other.

Psalm 93:1 The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty; The LORD has clothed and girded Himself with strength; Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved.

Finally, there is much we can do after we respond in faith through God’s grace to His perfect plan.

Be a light in darkness. Have empathy and compassion for the lost.
Share the hope you have in Christ to those who will listen.
Pray for God’s intervention and mercy in a world that does not seek Him or recognize Him as King.
Live in peace with all men as far as you are able. Put self last and Christ first in all your interactions.

2Corinthians 1:12 For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you.

Ephesians 4:29 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such [a word] as is good for edification according to the need [of the moment,] that it may give grace to those who hear.

Colossians 4:6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned, [as it were,] with salt, so that you may know how you should respond to each person.

God knows all, God understands perfectly, and God has a plan which will lead to His glory in His time. God loves you and sent His Son to pay the price for your sin. Because of this, confusion and anger will not be your response. Instead, peace will reside in your heart no matter what may come.

1Timothy 1:17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, [be] honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

In Christ Alone My Hope is Found …

When we suffer for our own poor choices there is no glory only shame. When we are persecuted for standing in the truth of God’s word, the glory is God’s.

A saddened heart, tears of sorrow – this is the response to mayhem. Our eyes have been assaulted with scenes of willful violence and unrest against individuals and properties. Clearly, we see the bent of our sinfulness displayed in the rioting and looting and total disregard for authority among crowds that gather for the purpose of causing trouble.

Should we be surprised? Solomon tells us there is nothing new under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9 That which has been is that which will be, and that which has been done is that which will be done. So, there is nothing new under the sun. But it is embarrassing. The unsolicited degradation of mankind’s sinful nature. Could God wipe us all out in a spoken word or from a slight movement of His hand? Yes. Would He be justified in doing so? Absolutely. However, He will continue to protect those who are His. Hope is not lost for those who trust in His omniscient power; He is preserving an eternal future bereft of sin. For this, we can be overwhelmingly thankful. We can still have peace.

So, what do we do? Seek Truth from His word. Engross yourself in His righteousness.

Daniel 9:4-5 And I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed and said, "Alas, O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments, we have sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly, and rebelled, even turning aside from Thy commandments and ordinances.

We pray. We come before God with a heart that trusts in Him. We ask God to hear us and to fix us. We let our requests be made known to Him.

We ask forgiveness. We admit wrongdoing. We recognize and regret our hostility against God.

We praise God for His faithfulness. We praise God for His protection, His promises, and His mercy even in the midst of rebellion and undeservedness.

We call sin what it is – wickedness and rebellion. It is not a right, nor a freedom of speech. It is lawlessness.

Daniel 9:8-9 "Open shame belongs to us, O Lord, to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, because we have sinned against Thee. "To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against Him;

We admit our shame and our sin against God’s commands. No excuses, no blame on others, taking full responsibility for our own actions that dishonor His name. Our sin is the cause for confusion.

We trust in His compassion and forgiveness. God has a tender love for His creation. He will continue to show mercy because of who He is, not because we deserve it, but because of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.

Our sinful nature is not unknown to God. The Word says we should not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among us. But we are to make certain we are not the direct cause of rebellion. When we suffer for our own poor choices there is no glory only shame. When we are persecuted for standing in the truth of God’s word, the glory is God’s.

1Peter 4:12-16 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if [anyone suffers] as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God.

We can continue to rejoice in the name of Christ. We must share the hope we have in Christ. He alone is the only solution to a world that needs forgiveness.

What Will Be the Outcome of Your Faith?

As we continue to move through this challenging time in our world, navigating the guidelines of ‘safer at home’ born from the Covid 19 pandemic, we can either focus on what we believe we have missed out on or we can focus on what we know is promised for our future. The outcome of these choices is opposite to one another. The first will produce unrest and despair. The second will produce peace and hope.

“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.

Because –

The result of faith is the salvation of our soul (v.9)

1Peter 1:9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

We have a living hope, an inheritance in heaven, the protection of God’s power, opportunities to prove our faith, and a love for God that produces joy.

We like to set goals. We look ahead and plan for the next steps in our life. From the moment a child is born, each new achievement is celebrated – the first smile, the first time rolling over and sitting up, the first steps, the first tooth, and the first words. Then learning and formal education is encouraged as each level in school is passed. We plan for the future, thinking ahead to careers, relationships, family and retirement. We even hedge our plans with insurance. Think about this though – insurance does not stop something from happening. It only helps when things do occur. For instance, fire insurance will never produce the security that you will not have a fire, it will replace items lost to the fire. Health insurance will not prevent you from getting an illness, it will help pay the cost of your care. We could go on and on, the point is our plans, and all we do to protect those plans, have limits. This is all fine for our time on earth, but do we look ahead to eternity? Do you have life insurance? Not the kind that provides a benefit to those you leave behind, but the insurance that promises your eternal dwelling in heaven?

What insurance do you have for your soul?
What is your eternal goal?

These questions are more important than anything else we can address in our lives. 1 Peter 1:9 speaks about the outcome of our faith. There is a defined result of faith, a conclusion of our trust and belief when we die. Eternal life insurance is a one-time purchase only by the blood of Jesus. It is free to those who choose to receive it.

1Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.

Ro 6:22 But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.

What will be the outcome of your faith?

James tells us what saving faith looks like, how it is manifested in a person’s life.

James 1:21 Therefore putting aside all filthiness and [all] that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.

Have you humbly bowed before the Lord your God to accept His gift of salvation purchased through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ?

In doing so, there is great cause for rejoicing. Your soul, that part of you which will continue on through eternity, is secure. Salvation is the object and result of faith. 1 Peter 1:9 addresses the assurance a believer has for their eternal life with Christ.

“Receiving--in sure anticipation; "the end of your faith," that is, its crowning consummation, finally completed "salvation". Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary

“Receiving with unspeakable delight, as a full equivalent of all your trials, the great end of your faith, {even} the complete salvation of {your} souls; a prize of infinitely greater importance than all you can be called to sacrifice for its sake!” Philip Doddridge N.T.

May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure because your faith is based on the Cross.

Rejoicing through Trials

“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.

Because –

Even though things are difficult, we can rejoice (v.6)

1Peter 1:6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials,

There is no rejoicing because of difficult circumstances however, we can continue to rejoice in and through trials because of our future and the certain hope we have in Christ. Those who are chosen are able to rejoice in the grace and peace of Christ given to them, because of His mercy (v.3), because of our inheritance reserved in heaven (v.4), because we are protected by His power for salvation (v.5).

The foundation for rejoicing through trials has been laid out for us in the previous verses. Notice the adjective attached to rejoice in verse six – greatly. This is more than just accepting difficult circumstances, it is moving through them with absolute knowledge that in the end all is well with our soul. Consider the account of Horatio Spafford. He survived the great Chicago Fire of 1871 in which he lost most of his real estate investment. Then in 1873, he planned to join his wife and four daughters on a transatlantic cruise after he finished some business. He sent them on their way, and later received tragic news that all four of his children had drowned when the ocean liner was in a freak collision with an iron tanker. Later, approaching the scene of the wreckage, he penned the hymn, “It Is Well with My Soul, (Wikipedia).

Is your soul well, filled with joy because of God’s promises?

Matthew Poole’s Commentary explains rejoicing as “an outward expression of the inward gladness of the heart”. Our hope is based upon what we know for the future – we are saved to glory, where at last we will be safe and secure in the presence of God. Therefore, we are able to greatly rejoice even through the distress of trials. We are able to rejoice in the truth of our present salvation and rejoice in the hope of our future reward. Jump ahead to the words in 1 Peter 1:9, “obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls”. In comparison to all eternity, our difficult circumstances are for a little while. The KJV translates this phrase to the word season. It literally means puny. Our trials may seem lengthy and overwhelming but this is because our context is wrong. We tend to look at things in the sense of time according to what we understand.

Is it possible we place too much significance on our circumstances here rather than our purpose for God’s future kingdom?

Days, weeks, months, years and decades are the means by which we measure our existence. Yet, our soul is eternal, lasting forever with Christ. Our calendar, compared with eternity, pales in its significance. As a visual, take a sheet of paper and mark a point with the sharp tip of a pencil. That point is our time on earth.

2Corinthians 4:17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,

Are trials necessary?

Most of us will encounter difficult circumstances that are unavoidable such as illness, death, and the effects of poor decisions made by others. There are those who have experienced flooding, fires, tornadoes, and all types of weather related disasters. Accidents happen every day; and each of us is touched at one time or another by the folly of man such as gossip, dishonesty, and pride. Certainly, God is able to take any trial away from us yet often He allows difficulties for our good. We may sorrow for the trial itself, but at the same time, we can rejoice in God’s care and the hope of our salvation.

Take a moment to think of the difficult times God has allowed in your life. Trials are designed to change our character.

How has God used challenges in your life to grow you spiritually?

1Peter 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;

Not everyone will experience the same trials. We may hear of those who seem to experience difficult circumstances often and we know of those who rarely experience hardship. We definitely do not want to invite trials into our life but when they surface, we are to keep our focus on God’s purpose – the refining of our faith. Therefore, our attitude during difficult times should be one of rejoicing in God’s plan. This is having a smile on your soul and peace in your heart even while tears may be streaming down your face.

“God's design in afflicting his people is their probation, not their destruction; their advantage, not their ruin: a trial, as the word signifies, is an experiment or search made upon a man, by some affliction, to prove the value and strength of his faith. This trial is made upon faith principally, rather than any other grace, because the trial of this is, in effect, the trial of all that is good in us. Our Christianity depends upon our faith; if this be wanting, there is nothing else that is spiritually good in us. Christ prays for this apostle, that his faith might not fail; if that be supported, all the rest will stand firm; the faith of good people is tried, that they themselves may have the comfort of it, God the glory of it, and others the benefit of it.” Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible

Read this word picture from William Burkitt’s New Testament Commentary, “As the coldness of the winter kills the weeds in our grounds, so the cold blasts of affliction … kill our corruptions in our souls. Perpetual shinings and fair seasons are reserved for heaven: cold blasts and nipping frosts are needful and useful here on earth …”

We will experience grief through various trials. Yet, nothing here on earth will change the joy we have in our future and in knowing Christ. External circumstances may cause sorrow yet God’s faithfulness is a reason to rejoice always. When difficulties present themselves, either we succumb to temptation or we can choose to persevere in truth, proving the sincerity of our faith.

James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which [the Lord] has promised to those who love Him.

Peter was writing to the Christians who had been scattered throughout the region as outcasts. They were persecuted and had many temptations to renounce their faith. The reminder to keep focused on their eternal home would help them to remain faithful even while their hearts were heavy. Their faith was being tested.

What is your response when it seems difficult to do the right thing?
Do you succumb to the world or rejoice in the Truth?
Are you able to look at trials as an opportunity to grow in your faith?

Consider this. As a parent, I can remember many times when it would have been easier to ignore a potential problem in the way one of my children were acting or thinking. It was easier to avoid having to discipline. There is no happiness in causing those you love to be discouraged. Yet, love has a responsibility. Real love will allow some difficulty in order to teach and mature. Holding on to this same thought, I often wonder at the immense love my Savior has for me to allow hard circumstances in my life in order to refine my thinking. The fact that God even cares enough about me to know what I need to be strengthened in my faith is mind-boggling. There is a purpose in His plan to cause His children to be more like Him, to gain understanding and to grow in their trust of His promises. I am caused to kneel before Him and thank Him for His great love.

Because of …

God’s compassion cannot be used up; He never tires of our need for Him. God’s compassion is always available to the individual who reaches out to Him, and often is showered upon us even without our awareness.

“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.

Because –

This is the gospel. Jesus died for the sins of mankind and rose from the dead, thus giving those who believe the hope of eternal life.

The motivator in the above verse is God’s mercy, His compassion towards mankind. We define compassion as having a deep awareness of and sympathy for another’s suffering; understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do something about it (WordWeb).

If we think about the concept of mercy or compassion in our human understanding, we sorely miss the implication of God’s mercy. Our compassion only extends as far as we are able to perceive someone’s circumstances. Our show of compassion is limited. How often have you tried to console someone while admitting you are not fully able to comprehend his or her pain? We get tired of showing compassion to another when it seems they are always ‘needy’. Is your attitude always one of desiring to help, or is it sometimes mixed with resentment because you have other pressing things to be done?

God’s mercy is perfect. He chose to fully embrace humankind because of His love. We deserve wrath yet He gives mercy. Mercy is something undeserved, God’s mercy is not based on our merits. God’s compassion is not limited; He knows and understands all things. God’s compassion cannot be used up; He never tires of our need for Him. God’s compassion is always available to the individual who reaches out to Him, and often is showered upon us even without our awareness.

Hebrews 4:15-16 says, For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as [we are, yet] without sin. Let us therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need.

God’s compassion is described as great. The KJV uses the word abundant. It is plenteous. At this moment in time, the world is experiencing shortages of many items due to the Covid 19 pandemic. There does not seem to be enough medical supplies and equipment to handle the number of those infected. Paper goods and disinfectants are being rationed. Even before this virus, many individuals understood what it meant to have need. In direct contrast is the abundant mercy of our God - always enough, always available.

God’s great mercy is active. His love for us and His compassion for us was displayed in Jesus Christ. The mercy of God is so much more than a feeling, it is doing. It is more than coming alongside; it is providing the ultimate solution. It is more than simply being aware or having sympathy. God manifested His great mercy in the death and resurrection of His only Son.

How can we possible understand this and not shout for joy and thankfulness! This IS amazing grace!

1 Peter 1:3 begins with “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ”. Blessed literally means adorable. Not as in what is seen, but adoration belonging to God because of who He is and what He has done. God deserves the praise of all mankind for his infinite mercy to the world. The commencement of 1 Peter is full of gratitude and joy. We have a living hope because of God’s love; because Jesus conquered sin and death. Without the resurrection, our hope is dead. “Whatever enemies, snares, dangers, temptations, beset us in our way to heaven, we shall be more than conquerors, if God be our keeper, and if He implants true faith in our hearts, which never faileth” (Haweis).

Praise be to God for the greatness of our salvation and for the future awaiting us in His heavens. Even with the afflictions and troubles in the world, are you blessing God for His abundant mercy, which has caused you to have a glorious hope? What is your worship?

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

In Him …

Our only deliverance from uncertainty and fear is in Christ.

During my study time a few days ago, I began reading in Exodus chapter fifteen. As usual, I did not get very far as my heart was led to contemplate Exodus 15:2, "The LORD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise Him; my father's God, and I will extol Him.

This verse comes after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea in victory over their enemies and deliverance from Egypt and the hands of Pharaoh. It is a song of praise to God for His Divine power and goodness. Moses led the Israelites in worship to God as their strength and confidence. God is the avenger of all difficulties, seen and unseen. He is sovereign in power.

The Israelites professed their dependence on God. Their past experience led them to confirm their present confidence. They recognized that God led them through their most troubling difficulties and His power in their time of need became the catalyst of their praise.

Read the words of Isaiah chapter twelve, “Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation. Therefore you will joyously draw water from the springs of salvation. And in that day you will say, ‘Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name, make known His deeds among the peoples; make [them] remember that His name is exalted. Praise the Lord in song, for He has done excellent things; let this be known throughout the earth. Cry aloud and shout for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel”.

Our only deliverance from uncertainty and fear is in Christ. We just celebrated Easter, His glorious resurrection proclaiming His power over all. Even during this unprecedented time of unknowns, isolation, sorrow, and struggle, I pray we are praising God for His victory over all that would thwart our trust in Him.

We can celebrate the confidence we have in Christ as our strength. Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary says, “Happy the people whose God is the Lord. They have work to do, temptations to grapple with, and afflictions to bear, and are weak in themselves; but His grace is their strength. They are often in sorrow, but in Him they have comfort; He is their song. Sin, and death, and hell threaten them, but He is, and will be their salvation”.

In Exodus 15:2, Moses proclaims God’s honor in His sovereign power, the Savior of His people, and the avenger of His enemies. I pray we are able to profess our complete dependence on God. Look to the protection God has shown you in the past and let that confirm your present confidence in His plan for your life.

My study time ended in Psalm 42, written by David as he cried for God’s peace in his soul.

As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for Thee, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my food day and night, while [they] say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" These things I remember, and I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go along with the throng [and] lead them in procession to the house of God, With the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you in despair, O my soul? And [why] have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him [For] the help of His presence. O my God, my soul is in despair within me; therefore I remember Thee from the land of the Jordan, and the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar. Deep calls to deep at the sound of Thy waterfalls; All Thy breakers and Thy waves have rolled over me. The LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime; and His song will be with me in the night, a prayer to the God of my life. I will say to God my rock, "Why hast Thou forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?" As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries revile me, while they say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance, and my God.

The ‘song of Moses’ in Exodus 15 gave Divine praise and glory to God when the Israelites crossed the Red Sea to safety and looked behind them and saw their enemies destroyed. This song of triumph is repeated by the saints in the book of Revelation in celebration of their final deliverance from persecution as the enemy is destroyed. All honor is given to the one true God, our King, in this final glorious victory.

Revelation 15:3 And they *sang the song of Moses the bond-servant of God and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvelous are Thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Thy ways, Thou King of the nations.

Are you able to say ‘The Lord is my Strength and my Song’?
Is God your salvation?
Do you praise Him for your deliverance from sin’s power?
Will you be counted with the saints in Christ’s final triumph?

We have much to be thankful for even in the midst of trouble. We have much to be joyful for as we look to our God. We have much to praise Him for, now and in the future to come!

Because He Lives

Jesus willingly came to earth to pay the penalty for our sin. Because God loves us, He sent His Son to suffer the death we deserve. Jesus’ blood has set us free from eternal punishment. His resurrection set us free from the power of sin’s control.

It is April 11, 2020, the day before Easter Sunday, and the world is in a pandemic. Covid19 is showing its affects worldwide. The phrases ‘social distancing’, ‘safer at home’, ‘self quarantine’, ‘essential business’, ‘the curve’, and ‘shelter in place’ have become everyday vocabulary. There may be uncertainty in the world; however, there is absolute security in Christ. There are Truths we can stand on with confidence.

We are justified. We have peace.

Romans 5:1 Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,

We stand in grace, we rejoice in hope.

Romans 5:2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.

We find joy in difficulty because we know God is working in us.

Romans 5:3-4 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;

We are satisfied in God’s love.

Romans 5:5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

HOW?

Romans 5:6-9 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. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath [of God] through Him.

Are you willing to answer the following questions honestly?

Does your faith produce peace?

Do you rest in God’s grace with hope for the future?

Do you find joy in all circumstances?

Are you certain of God’s love for you?

Will you kneel before your Lord and Savior as you remember His sacrifice?

Celebrate His Redeeming Grace, His Power, and His Mercy towards you! Have a glorious Easter because He lives!

His Care through the Journey

Exodus 13:21 tells us of the nation of Israel as they go through unchartered territory. They have a guide, they have protection, and they have a purpose

Exodus 13:21 And the LORD was going before them in a pillar of cloud by day to lead them on the way, and in a pillar of fire by night to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night.

God goes before us. The Lord Jehovah, the Eternal God, secures the way we should go. To us, the path ahead may seem unclear, it may be filled with confusing turns and it may even seem there is no direction or purpose. However, God will point our way. He does not ask us to navigate unchartered territory. He knows exactly what lies ahead, and we are assured of His care and protection just as the Israelite nation looked to Him for their way to the Promised Land. Right now, we are unable to gather in a building for corporate worship yet the church is not built of mortar and stone. The church is built of those who love God and trust in Him. The Lord was with the Israelite church in the wilderness and He is with us in this unchartered territory.

God leads us. Consider clearing a path to make it more suitable for a walk. Trails that we might follow in nature have been cleared by another before us. Many of the largest obstacles have been removed, and looking forward, you can see the way to go. “Those whom God brings into a wilderness, He will not leave nor lose there, but will take care to lead them through it… Those who make the glory of God their end, and the word of God their rule, the Spirit of God the guide of their affections, and the providence of God the guide of their affairs, may be sure that the Lord goes before them though they cannot see it with their eyes: we must now live by faith”, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary.

God protects us. God went before the Israelites by day in a pillar of cloud. Think, what does a cloud do? It covers the bright sunlight of day. It gives us shade and shelter. God protected His people from the intense heat as they followed Him. Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary says, “This cloud was a symbol of His gracious presence with them, and special providence over them”.

God was a pillar of fire by night to give them light. Think, what does light do? It enables us to see. When we use the phrase, someone is in the darkness, we are saying there is no understanding.

Have you chosen light over darkness; hope over fear?
Where is your refuge? Where do you seek cover?

God is our strength. A pillar is noticeable, usually a sign of strength and support. Many of our daily activities have ceased. Most of us are no longer going here and there with schedules that are filled. Unless you are considered an essential worker, you are home, only running necessary errands. Exodus 13:21 tells us of the nation of Israel as they go through unchartered territory. They have a guide, they have protection, and they have a purpose – to travel by day and night. Even in the wilderness, they are to keep going, to continue to walk forward as they follow God.

Are you growing in your dependence upon Him?
Are you taking this time to pursue God?

Nehemiah 9:19 Thou, in Thy great compassion, didst not forsake them in the wilderness; the pillar of cloud did not leave them by day, to guide them on their way, nor the pillar of fire by night, to light for them the way in which they were to go.

Have You Not Heard?

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired.

It would be so easy to allow discouragement to take over right now. Most of us have been directly affected by Covid19 in some way. Weddings have been altered or postponed, graduations have been quiet, trips have been cancelled, babies are born without family visiting, and memorials of those we know and love who have passed on are held remotely.

Many individuals have learned to set up conference calls from home so they can continue to work, many others have been sent home without any return date for work. Still, those who are continuing to be needed in order to run our society, go into work in trepidation, wondering if they will be exposed to this virus and become the next casualty, or bring it home to their families.

Children are home all day every day. Their team sports and activities have been cancelled; their uniforms are left unworn, high-fives left undone. There is disappointment in considering the things we may be missing. The lack of social connection may be more difficult for some than others, yet there is no denying our lives have changed. We are used to celebrating and gathering. No one is immune to boredom, uncertainty, and depression. Hearts are in danger of becoming heavy with anxiety and concern.

If you have been to a store to pick up necessities, people keep their distance as directed by authorities. Empty shelves and long lines have become expected. The fight is real to remain focused on all that is good. I was surprised at my own response when my phone alerted me with several text messages, one right after the other. Instead of checking it right away, I waited and wondered if it would be news of someone I know having become ill. I now have a much better understanding of the word pandemic. If you look up the definition, you will read it is a disease spread over a wide geographical area, which affects a large portion of the population. From my observation alone, it appears the word panic should be included in the definition.

We may not have a cure for Covid19 at this time, but experts are diligently working to find one. It may seem that just about everything is completely out of control and this is perhaps a fair assessment. However, there is hope for boredom, uncertainty and depression. We are able to find peace in the midst of crisis.

What is the cure for boredom and weariness, uncertainty and depression? Jesus Christ, the Creator of the universe, the Lord and Savior of the world, holds the cure for mankind. There is no greater answer. However difficult this period of time might be, this is a reminder to those who know God that He is in complete control – even of those things that do not make sense to us or seem exceptionally difficult.

Isaiah 40:28-31 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to [him who] lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up [with] wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.

Worldwide economic depression and mass unemployment, business closures, and even lives lost are not without God’s knowledge and understanding. There are opportunities in all of this to share the hope you have with those who need encouragement. If you have breath for today, you have reason to praise God.

Look inside your own heart and ask yourself, what or whom are you living for? What is your purpose in life? What do you look forward to? The answers to these questions, when based on Truth, are the same as they have always been. We live for God, our purpose is to glorify His name and we look forward to an eternity in heaven with Him. Nothing that has true value has changed at all! There is hope for the future. I pray you are encouraged.

Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.

@focusheavenward

thensingsmysoultothee.com

“Until Death Do We Meet”

Ruth 1:19-22

Everything we have is a blessing from God’s hand – undeserved, unmerited, unwarranted. Do we recognize His blessings when we have them? Do we hold blessings loosely, understanding they are not ours to own?

As we near the end of the first chapter in Ruth, Orpah has returned back to Moab and Naomi and Ruth begin their journey on to Bethlehem. After much persuasion on Naomi’s part for Ruth to return to her own family, Ruth makes it perfectly clear she will accompany Naomi, adopt her culture, her people and her God. We are not given information about the actual trek through desert land yet we can imagine it was not an easy journey. However they did make it and verse nineteen picks up with the two women arriving in Bethlehem. Once they entered the town, people gathered as they recognized Naomi.

Ruth 1:19 So they both went until they came to Bethlehem. And when they had come to Bethlehem, all the city was stirred because of them, and the women said, "Is this Naomi?"

Recall, Naomi had been gone for about ten years. Her family must have been known for her name to be remembered. As Naomi and Ruth approach Bethlehem, old friends and acquaintances of Naomi are excited to greet them. Most likely news had traveled that Naomi was now a widow and destitute, which was an obvious contrast to the young family of Elimelech who had departed from Bethlehem a decade earlier.

Consider how difficult this must have been for Naomi. Once she was the young bride of Elimelech, probably of significant financial means, enjoying youth, marriage and children. Now she has returned to her hometown minus all but perhaps the clothes on her back, worn and tired from difficult circumstances and a long arduous journey. She is no doubt feeling the heaviness of how her life has changed and her loss of husband and children.

There is a simple question recorded for us at the end of verse nineteen, “Is this Naomi?” We wonder in what spirit this question asked. Perhaps it is out of surprise or curiosity. Maybe the question is one of care and concern. It is good for each of us to remember how quickly our lives can change! Read the following verse.

Ps 103:15-16 As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes.16 When the wind has passed over it, it is no more, and its place acknowledges it no longer.

Our lives are short and uncertain. God’s word is everlasting and sure. Everything we have is a blessing from God’s hand – undeserved, unmerited, unwarranted. Do we recognize His blessings when we have them? Do we hold blessings loosely, understanding they are not ours to own?

Think about the response of the town towards Naomi’s return. What is our response when someone leaves for a while and returns heavy-hearted? What is our reaction when someone encounters difficulty? Is our heart quick to cast judgement or do we show compassion?

Thomas Haweis lived in the 18 century and was a key figure in the evangelical revival. Read what he writes about Ruth 1:19 –

1. Of the reception they met with. Collecting together on the rumour of her return, the women who remembered her former beauty and affluence, and now beheld her wrinkles and poverty, some perhaps in pity, some in scorn and upbraiding, and some in surprise, said, Is this Naomi? Note,

(1.) Age and wrinkles make strange alterations on the fairest face. It is a poor thing to be vain of what is so fading.

(2.) They who have any feelings of humanity, and much more those who have the bowels of Christ, will seek compassionately to alleviate the sorrows of the miserable.

(3.) They who have carried themselves most humble in prosperity, will be most regarded in adversity.

The next two verses in Ruth give us insight into Naomi’s struggle with the tragedies that have befallen her. Her response to the questions and raised eyebrows of her changed circumstances is heart wrenching.

Ruth 1:20-21 She said to them, "Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. 21 "I went out full, but the LORD has brought me back empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the LORD has witnessed against me and the Almighty has afflicted me?"

In the previous verse (19), we read it was the women who questioned Naomi. Most of us are blessed with close friendships, those we are connected to and perhaps know us a bit better than other acquaintances. You can almost hear the surprise in these women’s voices as they see Naomi again after ten years of her absence. Sorrow and poverty have most likely taken a toll on Naomi as well as the normal process of aging. It would be expected that she look different. She probably looks weaker physically because of the journey from Moab and the draining of her emotions from her experienced loss. The change in Naomi is recognizable and drastic and is difficult to ignore.

Naomi returns to Bethlehem with a heart full of sorrow. She has no means, no husband and no children. Each of us will encounter affliction in our lives. How will we react? Naomi’s name actually means pleasant or cheerful. Of course, at this point, her name doesn’t seem to fit what has befallen her. She shares the pain in her heart by her response in verse twenty. “Call me Mara”, meaning bitter or sorrowful. Hopefully at this point, the reader is feeling compassion with Naomi. Her discouragement is evident and is encompassing her attitude. We are all subject to hardship. Life can present many unexpected and uninvited tragedies. Are we prepared with God’s armor? What is our attitude when difficult things happen? How do we let circumstances affect our focus? At this low point in Naomi’s life, the name Mara seems more fitting and descriptive of her broken heart.

Naomi recognizes God has allowed grief in her life. Each of us can expect God’s correction and discipline through circumstances. Some of these difficult times may be brought from our own decisions and some from God’s loving hand of teaching us to grow in our dependence and trust of Him.

Job 5:17 "Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves, so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty.

Psalm 94:12 Blessed is the man whom You chasten, O LORD, and whom You teach out of Your law;

Proverbs 3:11-12 My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD or loathe His reproof, 12 For whom the LORD loves He reproves, even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.

James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

Revelation 3:19 'Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent.

In Ruth 1:21 Naomi states her position to those greeting her. She left Bethlehem with a husband and children and she has returned without them. She has experienced incredible grief. No matter the circumstances or the cause, loss is hard. Personal casualty is painful. It is even more painful when we recognize it has befallen us because of unwise decisions on our part. Naomi attributes her chastening from God as a direct punishment. Have you suffered loss or disappointment because of God’s direct hand of discipline for your sin? I would be willing to state that each of us can understand Naomi’s plight if only to a small degree.

The book of Job begins with giving all glory to God in all circumstances, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21). The book begins well but certainly Job suffered his moments of overwhelming grief upon the loss of his family and livelihood and even turned to questioning God’s hand of judgement. Read Job 19:6 – “Know then that God has wronged me and has closed His net around me”. Who are we to ever question what God does or what He allows? But even the strongest men and women of faith can succumb to the stress of heavy burdens for a short time. Have you ever felt closed in by all sides with difficulty in all directions? How do you respond? How should you respond?

Look back to the scriptures above. Chastening is proof that you are God’s child. He cannot allow sin to go unpunished and He will be faithful to continue to discipline us and train us to be used for His glory. Even when we do not understand, we have an opportunity to trust. What we do not see is Naomi making excuses or complaining. She simply states the truth – she acknowledges God’s hand against her, and she accepts His perfect and righteous judgement.

Hannah, upon the birth of her son Samuel, recognizes the power and right of God to do whatever He deems necessary in people’s lives. 1Samuel 2:7-8 "The LORD makes poor and rich; He brings low, He also exalts. 8 "He raises the poor from the dust, He lifts the needy from the ash heap to make them sit with nobles, and inherit a seat of honor; for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and He set the world on them.”

We can easily live our lives with expectations of what we think should happen or even what we think we deserve. The reality is, God will do what He desires for His greater purpose and glory. When we step into the world as an adult, we set forth a ‘plan’ in our mind of how things will go. If we begin college, our expectation is to finish college. If we have a desire to marry, we anticipate meeting someone. When it is time to have children, [we think] we make decisions of when and how many. Then if we are blessed with children, we plan for the fulfillment of dreams we have for them. Goals are necessary to keep us motivated but they need to be held loosely. God is the one driving the car, calling the shots, and steering the boat. However you want to look at it, we are not our own.

Psalm 24:1 The earth is the LORD'S, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.

Deuteronomy 32:6b Is not He your Father who has bought you? He has made you and established you.

Romans 14:6-8 He who observes the day, observes it for the Lord, and he who eats, does so for the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who eats not, for the Lord he does not eat, and gives thanks to God. 7 For not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself; 8 for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord's.

The first chapter of Ruth concludes with the information that Naomi and Ruth had returned to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest. Perfect timing, right? God’s hand is in all things!

Ruth 1:22 So Naomi returned, and with her Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter-in-law, who returned from the land of Moab. And they came to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest.

Harvest was in the spring, perhaps March or April. This timing would have afforded Ruth the best opportunity to provide for herself and Naomi since it was the beginning of the season.

Naomi is home after ten years of sojourning in Moab. She has returned without her husband and sons. Her strong witness of faith to the God of Israel has made an impression upon one of her daughter in laws. God has used Naomi’s example in Ruth’s heart. Ruth chooses to leave her culture and family for the one true God. She vehemently insists on adopting the culture, people and God of the Jewish nation. With a broken heart and an empty purse, Naomi is greeted by her home town. She is recognizably changed, in her words chastened by God. Yet her afflicted heart will continue to trust God’s sovereignty. In chapter two of this book, Naomi will encourage Ruth by her words and example to place her faith in God’s plan and promises.

Salvation Hope

Ps 119:166-168 I hope for Thy salvation, O LORD, and do Thy commandments.167 My soul keeps Thy testimonies, and I love them exceedingly. 168 I keep Thy precepts and Thy testimonies, for all my ways are before Thee.

Look back a few verses in Psalm 119. David loves God’s word (v.163); this leads him to praise God (v.164); which produces peace through difficulties and no worries that he might stumble (v.165). There is hope and strength in God to keep going in a way that glorifies Him!

What is hope? It is the expectation that something will happen. Hope in the world is based on chance, like wishing for something. We can be optimistic and full of hope that something will turn out well but there are no guarantees. Hope in the biblical sense is absolute when placed in the hands of God. Hope is certain confidence in God!

How do we get hope? By faith – believing that God is who He says He is and will do what He claims. True faith is trusting in God’s plan alone for the future. Years ago I had a sign in my kitchen that said, “I placed all my eggs in one basket and gave the basket to God”. This is contrary to the world in which diversity is encouraged. Diversity is the idea that if one area fails you haven’t lost everything, there is still a chance for success in other areas.

The world doesn’t know God! God will not fail. Our best investment for our future is to place all our hope in God’s plan. This is the hope our Psalmist is speaking of in Psalm 119:166.

What does our Psalmist hope for? Salvation. God’s deliverance, His aid, His victory, His prosperity. In other words, all things that are good and for my welfare come from God. We can have hope for now – that God will continually guide and help us – and for the future of our salvation.

Re 22:14 Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city.

Ps 130:5-7 I wait for the LORD, my soul does wait, and in His word do I hope. 6 My soul [waits] for the Lord More than the watchmen for the morning; [Indeed, more than] the watchmen for the morning. 7 O Israel, hope in the LORD; for with the LORD there is lovingkindness, And with Him is abundant redemption.

What action is taken while hope is deferred? Obedience. The Psalmist says he follows God’s commandments.

Matthew Poole’s Commentary says, “Thus performing the condition which thou hast required, I justly and confidently hope for thy mercy promised”.

Ps 4:5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and trust in the LORD.

Ps 24:3-5 Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? And who may stand in His holy place? 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood, and has not sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive a blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation.

First, we must have faith. Then we have certain hope of God’s salvation as we obey His commands. The gift of God’s salvation produces a desire to please Him and follow His words. As we consistently seek to do God’s will, we are assured of our relationship with Him – obedience is evidence of our certain salvation.

“This is the true posture in which all the servants of God should desire to be found — hoping in his mercy, and doing his commands. How easy were it to demonstrate the connection between the mental feeling here recognized, and the obedience with which it is here associated! It is the hope of salvation which is the great and pervading motive to holiness, and it is the consciousness of obedience to the will of God which strengthens our hope of interest in the divine mercy.” —John Morison, in The Treasury of David

Where is your hope? Are you absolutely certain of your salvation in Christ? Are you living in obedience to His commands?

Moving on to the next verse in our group, we are caused to look carefully at the description the Psalmist uses of himself in keeping God’s commands.

Ps 119:167 My soul keeps Thy testimonies, and I love them exceedingly.

My soul – that very part of us that makes us a being; our body, our heart, and our mind.

In other words, my spirit is in accordance with God’s plan. My desire lines up with God’s commands. If I obey in action but my thoughts and words are not supportive, I am a hypocrite. If I think right without taking action, I have not witnessed for God. If I use the words that sound pleasing to God but have no evidence in my life, my words are empty.

Picture the ingredients to make brownies on the kitchen counter. All items needed to make something gooey and delicious are available in separate bowls ready to work together. If I leave something out while mixing, the brownies will not be as yummy as they could be. Each part needs to be included to make the whole recipe complete. Also recognize that unless I make some effort to use the ingredients, they will remain on the counter and not be transformed.

When David says his soul keeps God’s testimonies, he is saying in effect that he is completely saturated in his desire to obey God. There is nothing he is holding back, and nothing he has kept out. He is immersed in God’s love.

Consider for a moment all the wonderful pleasures God has allowed in your life. Family, friends, a place to live, activities, involvement, and on and on. These blessings are for us to enjoy, however none of these things is more important than obeying God’s word. Is obedience to His commands first in your life?

Joh 15:9-11 “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.10 “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and [that] your joy may be made full.

We keep God’s testimonies because we love them! In Psalm 119:167, David says he loves God’s testimonies exceedingly. Our failures and imperfections are not the measure of our love for God. It is our soul, our desire to follow after all His commands, and our sincere efforts to live a life pleasing to Him in obedience.

“Let not our consciousness of daily failures make us shrink from this strong expression of confidence. It is alleged as an evidence of grace, not as a claim of merit, and therefore the most humble believer need not hesitate to adopt it as the expression of Christian sincerity before God. David aspired to no higher character than that of a poor sinner: but he was conscious of spirituality of obedience, “exceeding love” to the divine word, and an habitual walk under the eye of his God — the evidences of a heart (often mentioned in the Old Testament)” perfect with him.” —Charles Bridges, in The Treasury of David

In Psalm 119:167 we read that David loves God’s testimonies exceedingly. Think of the words intense, vehement and diligent. These three words are included in the Hebrew adjective describing this word. Consider something or someone that you love with such strength and energy that you know your love will persevere regardless of difficulties. This is the love described for us that David has toward God’s testimonies. His love for God is extreme and it shows in his life. What consideration can we make for ourselves from this example?

Moving on the Psalm 119:168, we read:

Ps 119:168 I keep Thy precepts and Thy testimonies, for all my ways are before Thee.

We have looked closely at the word keep several times beforehand in our study of Psalm 119. The definition of keep means to protect. The picture given is a hedge with thorns preserving what is valuable. We are to take utmost care to preserve God’s truth in its entirety. Our understanding of God’s commands and our representation of God’s commands speak of our carefulness to uphold the Word.

As we have moved through this section of scripture, we have seen the Psalmists confidence in God’s Word, his obedience toward God’s Word and now his careful attention to follow God’s Word. When you consider paying careful attention to something, it requires intent study, effort, and understanding. This certainly would work to David’s benefit but more important is his love for God and desire to honor Him.

“For all my ways are before Thee”. God sees all that we do and understands our motivation. God is omniscient. Every area of our life is known by Him. We need to pay attention that each decision we make, and every word we say or think, is in accordance with honoring God.

Picture a closet in your home. The areas we see may look organized and picked up. What about the corners, the areas way in the back recesses where things get stashed or are rarely used? It is easier to address what is directly in front of us. But those things that are hidden we can readily ignore. God sees all. Is it time for a thorough closet cleaning?

Pr 5:21 For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He watches all his paths.

Ps 139:3 Thou dost scrutinize my path and my lying down, and art intimately acquainted with all my ways.

Jer 23:24 “Can a man hide himself in hiding places, so I do not see him?” declares the LORD. “Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?” declares the LORD.

God sees our heart. Do we live accordingly? Does the certainty of our salvation cause us to rejoice in doing all that God commands? Does our love for God lead us to obey His Word? Does our understanding of God’s omniscience motivate us to carefully honor Him in all things?

Be encouraged! God knows we are unable to live effectively for Him on our own. As we call upon His strength and grace, we are able to honor Him with our lives.

2Th 2:16-17 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word.

Purposed for His Glory

Our purpose for each day will present itself if we listen to God and follow Him and desire to serve Him. Who is it all about anyways? Is it about doing what I want to fulfill my life? Or is it about doing what God commands to bring glory to Him? My life is not my own!

The United States Army had a slogan for twenty years, “Be All You Can Be” – in the Army. It generated a feeling of being able to push yourself to all extremes and do it for a cause that was believed in.

Several weeks ago, someone told me they just wanted to find their purpose in God. With a sincere heart, they were struggling and desiring for their purpose to be clear. I would propose that finding our purpose is not so difficult, it is quite clearly written in God’s word: why we are here and what we are to be about doing. So perhaps, the words, ‘finding my purpose’ can better be equated to acting upon what I know to do. Finding a purpose is not difficult, it’s doing. And it’s being content in the place and position God has ordained for us. Our greater purpose is to glorify God. Each of us has what you might call a lesser purpose. Such as, maybe you have a talent or strength in the arts or science or teaching. It could be that raising a family, caring for a parent, or being an encouragement to others is where you are at this time in your life. If we concentrate on our sole purpose to please God with the lives He has given, then our roles or what He has individually planned for us will become clear. Our lesser purpose may change from time to time as God moves us around to serve in different ways for Himself. Our purpose for each day will present itself if we listen to God and follow Him and desire to serve Him. Who is it all about anyways? Is it about doing what I want to fulfill my life? Or is it about doing what God commands to bring glory to Him? My life is not my own!

What is our purpose according to God’s written word? Actually, I like the word ‘charge’ we looked at in a recent women’s bible study. We’ve been going through Psalm 119 for several years now, it seems like a long time but really there is so much to consider as we look verse by verse at God’s perfect words to us.

Ps 119:138 Thou hast commanded Thy testimonies in righteousness and exceeding faithfulness.

The word ‘commanded’ in this verse is from <tsavah>. In Strong’s Concordance, part of the definition reads (to give) a charge. Also included are these words: (Intensively) to constitute, enjoin, appoint, bid, send a messenger, put (set) in order.

As I wrote earlier, I gravitated towards the idea of being given a charge. There is responsibility in that thought. A purpose. Action. When we are given a charge, we are assigned a duty, given responsibility; we have an obligation to act upon something. Obedience is enjoined in our purpose.

This same word was used when God told Adam he could eat of every tree in the garden except the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:16-17). Adam’s charge was to obey. Throughout chapter three in Genesis, this same word is used as God places judgement on all of mankind for Adam’s failure to follow God’s commands.

God commanded Noah to build the ark (Gen 6-7). Noah’s part in this was action, obedience to God’s charge. God commanded the Israelites through the entire book of Deuteronomy. God meticulously told them what to do – their purpose. Joshua was given a charge, or command, to be ‘strong and courageous’ (Jos 1:9). God commands obedience (Jer 7:23).

In Matthew 15, God commands that honor be shown to our father and mother (Matt 15:4). The translation of ‘commanded’ in this verse is from a different word, <entellomai>, which carries the same meaning of ‘to be given a charge’.

Acts 10:42 says, "And He ordered us to preach to the people, and solemnly to testify that this is the One who has been appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead”. Ordered, or commanded in the KJV, comes from <paraggello>. Again, the same idea of being given a charge to do something. A purpose.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of words or scripture, but it is certainly enough to merit our attention to the ‘purpose’ we have been given in this world as God’s children. Most of the explanations of words are Greek (or Hebrew) to me!!! (This is funny, but true). But, we are not required to be a student of language or theology in order to understand what God wants. We have been given clear commands, or charges. Our purpose is found in God’s word.

This is so contrary to the world’s thinking. We are groomed from a very early age to ‘be something’ or ‘to do something with our life’. Jobs are important, therefore education is important in order to get employment that will bring in a paycheck so that we are able to provide what is needed for ourselves and perhaps family and others. These are all good things and require our attention and some hard work. And, God has given the human mind an amazing capacity for understanding information and solving problems. Goals are important – we are to use our time and energy wisely – but our plans should never supersede God’s commands.

Consider. What is the first thing we say when someone asks us to tell them about ourselves? Do we rattle of a list of accomplishments, job titles and positions before mentioning anything of our relationship with Jesus Christ? That we are His child, living for Him?

What is our purpose according to God’s word?

Eph 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

We have been created for good works. Our purpose is to be occupied with leading holy lives. Eph 1:4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him. …

Ro 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

2Co 5:5 Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge.

Joh 15:16 "You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask of the Father in My name, He may give to you.

Mt 5:16 "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Col 1:10 so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Good works does not save us, however, we are created for good works. Our purpose. No amount of our own effort has value in bringing us to live a holy life. But, God has made us to be holy for Him. In Him alone are we able to walk in holiness. We are designed by God and enabled by God to live in a manner pleasing to Him.

Ephesians gives us some of the characterization of walking in good works.

Eph 4:31-32 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

Wow! This is quite a list, right! For myself, just being purposed to do the things above gives me plenty of ‘things to do’ during the course of each day. Consider. What would it look like to purpose to forgiveness in all things for everyone; to show kindness, to be compassionate towards others in every circumstance, no matter what? And why would we try to do this? It’s our purpose. It brings glory to God when we strive to live in holiness. Because God tells us to do so and our purpose is obedience to Him.

Read 1 Thessalonians 5: 8-9, But since we are of [the] day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ,

We have been destined – not for wrath – but for obtaining salvation! Talk about purpose! When I looked up the word destined <tithemi>, part of the definition says purpose. Our destiny, God’s intention for us, our fate is for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. This is incredibly encouraging and humbling at the same time. Encouraging because my purpose is clear, humbling because God has chosen, in His grace, to call me His child, to rescue me, to purchase me, from the ravages of sin, to the righteousness of Christ. I don’t know myself as well as God knows me, yet I do know that sin wages war in my mind daily; there is a constant battle going on; a fight to do what is right; a perpetual clinging to Jesus to produce the good works I have been created for.

Since we are destined for obtaining salvation in Christ and charged to live lives that are holy and blameless, we need to fight sin. In ourselves, this is impossible. But, with the tools given to us from God, this is entirely plausible!

We are to be sober. We are to be temperate, careful, and watchful.

1Th 5:6 so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

1Pe 4:7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer.

1Pe 5:8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour

The word ‘vigilant’ comes to mind. When we are sober, we are able to be observant and attentive to possible dangers. We have our eyes open and looking about for the things that threaten us. We are on guard against sin.

Ro 13:13-14 Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to [its] lusts.

Eph 5:6-8 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them; 8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light

We are to be ready to work and even fight, using God’s armor.
- the breastplate of faith and love

Consider. What does a breastplate protect? Our heart. Adam Clarke’s Commentary says this: “what the breastplate and helmet are to a soldier's heart and head, such are faith, love, and hope to us. Faith enables us to endure, as seeing him who is invisible; love excites us to diligence and activity, and makes us bear our troubles and difficulties pleasantly; hope helps us to anticipate the great end, the glory that shall be revealed, and which we know we shall in due time obtain, if we faint not.”

Eph 6:16 in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming missiles of the evil one.

By faith we are justified in Christ. Being justified means we are righteous before God. This righteousness is what shields our heart from attack. Consider. Where are we without the breastplate of righteousness protecting us? We are vulnerable to the darkness of sin. We are defenseless against the attacks of the evil one. What is protecting your heart against attack?

- and as a helmet, the hope of salvation

A helmet protects the head from blows. As God’s children, we have His protection. Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary says this: “A soldier would not fight well without a hope of victory. A Christian could not contend with his foes, without the hope of final salvation; but, sustained by this, what has he to dread?”

Macknight, on the Epistles, says our “head is the seat of reason”. It is responsible for our thoughts and feelings. If left unguarded, without the light and truth of God’s word, we are susceptible to attack. Hope helps us to continue, even through dangers. Our hope is certain. Hope <elpis> means to anticipate, usually with pleasure; expectation or confidence.

Job 19:23-27 "Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book! "That with an iron stylus and lead They were engraved in the rock forever!" And as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will take His stand on the earth. "Even after my skin is destroyed, yet from my flesh I shall see God; Whom I myself shall behold, and whom my eyes shall see and not another. My heart faints within me.

Ps 42:5 Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.

Ro 5:2-5 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Heb 6:19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil,

1Pe 1:3-5 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

1Pe 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

We are purposed for action, we are purposed for obedience, we are purposed to have Hope.

Continuing in the book of Thessalonians, we see listed for us a purposed way to live.

v.11 We are to encourage and build up one another,

v.12-13 We are to appreciate and esteem the leaders in our church,

v.13 We are to be at peace amongst ourselves,

v.14 We are to caution those who are defiant to truth, encourage the fainthearted, care for the weak, and be patient towards all.

God’s plan for us, our purpose, is written all over scripture! If we continue in this

same section of the Word, we read that we are to rejoice always (v.16) and pray

without ceasing (v.17).

We are instructed to be thankful.

1Th 5:18 in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

This charge is not just to be thankful for some things, or when something nice has happened. It literally says ‘in everything give thanks’. When things don’t go as planned we are to be thankful knowing God has a better plan that He will bring to fruition. Even in heartache, God is still the One who is causing all things to work for our good and His glory. We have limited knowledge; He is all-knowing.

Eph 5:20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father;

Accordingly, my purpose is to always be in the spirit of prayer and to be continually grateful and obedient. If God’s grace has called you to be His child, your purpose is to be His child!

We are created for good works, to bring glory to His name. To live holy lives. To treasure the life He has bestowed upon us. To honor His name in all things by our obedience. To take action in doing what the word says. To have hope for the future. To be an encourager and a peacemaker. To rejoice always and to be thankful in all things. This list is by no means exhaustive, there are many, many more scriptures that speak to our purpose. Anything and everything we are able to accomplish or have any amount of success in, is only because of God’s grace in our lives. He has purposed us to live for Him.

Php 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

2Ti 2:1 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

Consider. A rooster has been purposed to crow like a rooster. A fish has been purposed to swim like a fish. A person has been created – purposed – for God’s glory. Living for Him will guide us exactly on the path He has destined for us!

The Cubbies group in our AWANA program at church had a simulated boot camp. Of course, one of the songs they sang was, ‘I’m in the Lord’s Army’. This is a great concept! Be All You Can Be – for God. Live for Him because you believe in His greater cause! This is your purpose.

Sheep.

God will provide for us, He will feed us, He will preserve us for His purposes, He will sustain us, He will defend and protect us and He will care for us in every conceivable way.

Sheep. Timid animals that need direction and protection. The keeper of a flock of sheep is called a shepherd.

While in Arizona last week, we were on our way to an animal rescue reserve when we happened upon Jerome, an old copper mining town built into the sides of Cleopatra Hill overlooking the Verde Valley. It is located in the Black Hills of Yavapai County and was founded in the late 19th century. We changed our plans and enjoyed the day walking around this small town. At one point we entered a historic tire manufacturer turned artist’s gallery. Inside, the old warehouse was sectioned off into separate displays. One of the sections had two exhibits, glass blowing on one wall, clay figurines on the other. It was incredible to see examples of the creativity God has endowed to certain individuals! As we walked out of the stall, I couldn’t help but notice a sign posted that had big arrows pointing to each side that read, ‘the religious views on the that side  don’t reflect the views on this side ’. Wow, you could immediately feel the tension that must be going on. We walked farther into the building and found the same clay figures we had seen earlier with handwritten scripture displayed throughout. I had the opportunity to speak to the owner and it was sad to hear of the tension going on between different artists. In an adjoining section, beautiful clay forms had been sculpted depicting scenes from the Bible. Although spiritual warfare was present, Truth was shining and God was protecting his ambassadors with His care. It was fun to be able to encourage the owner to keep on keeping on. I was given permission to use the photos I took of his wife’s original artwork for my blog. I would have loved to purchase a large piece of art but settled on a small sheep as I thought of God’s tender care for us as the Great Shepherd of our souls.

In Ezekiel chapter 34, God reprimands those who were to care for the nation of Israel. The Levite priests had become more interested in their own welfare and advancement rather than taking the time and energy involved in truly shepherding God’s people. As God puts forth His judgment on those who ceased to acknowledge Him, He also gives His promise that He will take care of His flock.

Eze 34:11-16a. 11[a] For thus says the Lord GOD, [b]"Behold, I Myself will search for My sheep and seek them out. 12 "As a shepherd cares for his herd in the day when he is among his scattered sheep, so I will care for My sheep and will deliver them from all the places to which they were scattered on a cloudy and gloomy day. 13 "And I will bring them out from the peoples and gather them from the countries and bring them to their own land; and I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, by the streams, and in all the inhabited places of the land. 14[a] "I will feed them in a good pasture, [b] and their grazing ground will be on the mountain heights of Israel. There they will lie down in good grazing ground, and they will feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. 15 "I will feed My flock and I will lead them to rest," declares the Lord GOD. 16a "I will seek the lost, bring back the scattered, bind up the broken, and strengthen the sick;

Eze 34:11a For thus says the Lord GOD,

This is God’s answer to those who had been unfaithful to care for His people and His promise to those who had been neglected.

Eze 34:11b Behold, I Myself will search for My sheep and seek them out.

“the construction is emphatical in the Hebrew and well expressed here; I, the Owner, the Lover, the Maker, the great Shepherd, even I, who committed them to your care, never submitted them to your rapine and cruelty, am as angry with you for devouring them as I am zealous for their welfare.” Matthew Poole’s Commentary

God Himself will search for His children. He will pursue you, He will seek after you, He will care for you!

Consider. The Lord God will not let His children stay lost! Just as a shepherd gathers and guides the sheep, God will be certain to account for each of His children.

Eze 34:12 "As a shepherd cares for his herd in the day when he is among his scattered sheep, so I will care for My sheep and will deliver them from all the places to which they were scattered on a cloudy and gloomy day.

What does it mean to care for someone? WordWeb gives us the following ideas of this meaning: to have a fondness for, to be attached to, to cherish, hold dear, treasure. And these descriptions are only what man can perceive. Imagine how much more a holy and perfect God cares for those He loves! We truly are never alone. We may feel lost but we are not lost to God if we’re His children. Even in situations where we seem to be the only ones promoting Truth, God has His hand on us, caring for us.

“As a shepherd doth gently gather them together, counteth them, brings them to the fold, views what they have suffered, whether lame or torn, and binds up, and healeth; if any are wanting, he looks till he findeth them, and brings them back; so will I, saith the Lord. If the shepherd find the wolf or lion among them or near them, he will either kill or drive him away; so will God …” Matthew Poole’s Commentary

I love that we have a descriptive text of the extent that a shepherd would go to care for the flock in 1Samuel 17:34-35. But David said to Saul, "Your servant was tending his father's sheep. When a lion or a bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I went out after him and attacked him, and rescued it from his mouth; and when he rose up against me, I seized him by his beard and struck him and killed him.

As I was searching to find insight on the words ‘cloudy and gloomy day’ in Ezekiel 34:12, I was led to all spectrums of interpretation. The words themselves mean what they say. One commentary said it referred to ‘the day of their affliction and misery’. Another seemed to associate this phrase with ‘times of general distress and persecution’. Then I was led to scripture with the same overtone.

Zep 1:15 A day of wrath is that day, a day of trouble and distress, a day of destruction and desolation, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness,

Joe 2:2 A day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness. As the dawn is spread over the mountains, so there is a great and mighty people; there has never been anything like it, nor will there be again after it to the years of many generations.

The cloudy day; when the storm first began to arise from abroad or at home; here in persecutions, there in warlike preparations. Dark day; that the land was invaded till the desolation of Jerusalem, the times of maladministration of their own governors, and violent irruption of their enemies. Matthew Poole’s Commentary

We’ll concentrate on what is certain – we are under the perfect protection of God. Now and in the future. When things seem at their worse, we need not despair or fear. We have a Shepherd who will not let us be devoured by anything sinister. Even in the darkest, gloomiest of times, we have a light to guide us safely through the storm.

Eze 34:13 And I will bring them out from the peoples and gather them from the countries and bring them to their own land; and I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, by the streams, and in all the inhabited places of the land.

Jer 23:3-4 "Then I Myself shall gather the remnant of My flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and shall bring them back to their pasture; and they will be fruitful and multiply. "I shall also raise up shepherds over them and they will tend them; and they will not be afraid any longer, nor be terrified, nor will any be missing," declares the LORD.

We may not be led back to the land of Canaan as the Israelite nation was, but the promise to care for us remains true. God will provide for us, He will feed us, He will preserve us for His purposes, He will sustain us, He will defend and protect us and He will care for us in every conceivable way. Sheep are timid and defenseless. They are readily preyed upon. A person who is sheepish is usually vulnerable and follows along rather than stand strong. God knows His children need to be cared for. And He has given His promise that He will Shepherd us. This is truly amazing if you stop to consider who we are and who He is. God continues to lay out His promises to the Israelite nation in Ezekiel 34:14.

Eze 34:14a I will feed them in a good pasture

feed <ra’ah> to tend a flock; pasture it; generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a friend) …

good <towb> as an adverb (well): beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease; … graciously, joyful, kindly, loving

God will rule His own and graciously tend to them. And this is not just throwing food and water to us as you might tend an animal. If you are His child, you will be able to look back at the countless times God has guided you through difficulty. Even foolish decisions we have been allowed to make, have been turned into times of learning and growing in our understanding of Him and for His glory. My husband and I were revisiting the years leading up to our meeting and it is so clear that God was directing both of our paths towards each other as we followed Him. We were both saved through divorces neither of us chose. We were baptized the same day, same place, same church albeit unknown to us. He was praying for a family to lead, I was praying for a leader, a husband and dad to my young children. I could go back even further into our history but for the sake of length I won’t. Coincidence or Providence: “the guardianship and control exercised by a deity”? I believe that none of the events, or timing, were accidental! I challenge you to take the time to recognize God’s shepherding in your life.

There are no coincidences! A coincidence is defined as, “An event that might have been arranged although it was really accidental” (WordWeb). However, there is a God-ordained plan for our lives and it is full of circumstances purposefully arranged in order to bring glory to Himself. God allows and even determines the times of dark and cloudy days.

Consider. When circumstances are difficult whether by your own doing or another’s, don’t you learn to appreciate even more the times of quiet and rest? Each relationship and each condition God has put in your path, has allowed you to learn something. That’s called being shepherded by a tender, all-knowing, merciful and perfect Father in Heaven.

Ezekiel 34:14b-15 goes on to paint a picture in detail how God will care for His people: and their grazing ground will be on the mountain heights of Israel. There they will lie down in good grazing ground, and they will feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. 15 "I will feed My flock and I will lead them to rest," declares the Lord GOD.

Ps 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.

Consider. God provides all that we need to grow physically and spiritually. Are you eating in His good grazing grounds, are you resting in His rich pastures?

Isa 40:11 Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, in His arm He will gather the lambs, and carry them in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes.

Jer 31:25 "For I satisfy the weary ones and refresh everyone who languishes."

Joh 10:9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

Consider. Does God at any point in time forget His children who have wandered away? Or leave behind those who have been misled? What happens to those who are broken-hearted or seemingly destroyed? Are the weak and afflicted cast aside never to be remembered by Him?

Eze 34:16a I will seek the lost, bring back the scattered, bind up the broken, and strengthen the sick;

Isa 40:11 Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, In His arm He will gather the lambs, and carry [them] in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing [ewes.]

Mt 18:11-14 For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost. What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go and search for the one that is straying? And if it turns out that he finds it, truly I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine which have not gone astray. Thus it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones perish.

Sheep: A timid defenseless simpleton who is readily preyed upon; a docile and vulnerable person who would rather follow than make an independent decision. WordWeb

“Sheep have little ability to defend themselves; Even if sheep survive an attack, they may die from their injuries or simply from panic.” “The illustration [of the Good Shepherd] encompasses many ideas, including God’s care for his people. The tendency of humans to put themselves into danger’s way and their inability to guide and take care of themselves apart from the direct power and leading of God …” Wikipedia (sheep/shepherd)

Most of us have heard or read Psalm 23. Matthew Henry’s Commentary says, “It is full of comforts, and the expressions of delight in God’s great goodness and dependence upon Him”.

Ps 23. (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 Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. 5 Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast 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.

God is our Shepherd. In Him we find peace and guidance. He will comfort us when we are fearful or in distress. We can calmly walk forward through all circumstances in His care. We can be brave when surrounded by evil. God is sovereign, He has conquered sin and gives to His sheep a hope that will never die. We are able to find complete satisfaction in His provision. He promises His goodness and mercy shall follow each step we take.

Sheep. Timid, defenseless creatures. But, with Christ as their Shepherd, they are brave and completely protected from harm as they are led on a path of righteousness through His mercy and in His grace to an everlasting hope of His presence forevermore.

JITNOT

I had only made one dessert, a three tiered lemon cake, the favorite of most of those present. It was centered on the table outside like a star begging you to notice. Well, it did get the attention of —– our dog!

Ps 91:1-2 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Ps 91:3 For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper, And from the deadly pestilence.

$C:\Users\Sharyn\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\INetCache\Content.Word\pooh bear, lemon cake.jpg$

Summer. Barbeques. Family. The weather was beautiful. The family was gathered. The food was good. The kids were all running around in the backyard. The adults were relaxing, talking. Some were cleaning up in the kitchen, others were sitting around the table outside. Soon it would be time for dessert. I had only made one dessert, a three tiered lemon cake, the favorite of most of those present. It was centered on the table outside like a star begging you to notice. Well, it did get the attention of ----- our dog! As quick as you can say no, the lemon cake had a large bite taken out of the side. My oldest brother laughed as he shooed Pooh Bear away and told us what happened when we came out from the kitchen. We were able to cut a large margin off the cake where the insult had taken place and still enjoy my efforts. Just in the nick of time? Or not? Injuries were apparent but there was salvage.

‘Just in the nick of time’ is a saying most of us have heard. There’s actually an acronym that showed up for this phrase: JITNOT! It means ‘at the last possible moment’.

My three children and I had moved around about every six months for a period of three years. We weren’t hiding or choosing to move, we were surviving through a really rough period of time. One of our last moves was into a low-income government housing project. Not the best place for a young single mom with three kids, two under the age of five, but nevertheless a place that provided shelter. It was a bit scary and not what you might particularly choose, if you had a choice. Drug dealing was rampant and obvious, the sounds of fighting and yelling were commonplace and even my sweet five year old son got punched in the face by a girl as I was watching him on the swing set placed in the center of the apartments. My paperwork was to be completed the following morning to sign a contract for the lease and I remember thinking there had to be a better solution but was unable to come up with one. The only things I knew to do was pray, trust and be thankful for what God had provided. Then there was a phone call from a leader at the church the kids and I attended and a request to come by right away that evening. As I was offered a real home and asked not to sign the papers in the morning I remember tears of thankfulness. A couple in our church had purchased a tiny home specifically for our use! Asking only for rent we could pay within our meager income. This house was in a safe neighborhood. Next door to an older couple who quickly became dear friends. Just in the nick of time! Perfectly in God’s time. He delivered us out of a situation that had become increasingly difficult. JITNOT! Could God have rescued us sooner? Sure. But the increasing values of trust, patience, dependence on Him, thankfulness for what you have, recognizing the needs of others, learning that joy comes from within rather than outside circumstances, were His gift to myself and my children, learned through hardship – one that is forever embedded in our hearts.

Ps 91:3 says, For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper, and from the deadly pestilence.

In the previous verse of this chapter, David had called God his refuge, his fortress, his trust. Why? Because he knew God would rescue him from harm.

For it is He who delivers you….

to continue click here

Out of Control…

Things happen! Difficult things happen! Unfair things happen! Tragic things happen! Where do you go for understanding, for comfort? How do you respond to those unexpected tragedies?

OUT OF CONTROL…

In 2008, Natalie Grant released the song In Christ Alone. Read the words to the first line below.

In Christ alone my hope is found, He is my light, my strength, my song.

Things happen! Difficult things happen! Unfair things happen! Tragic things happen! Where do you go for understanding, for comfort? How do you respond to those unexpected tragedies? Is there truth to be considered in the lyrics written above?

Consider. Hope placed in any resource, except that of the promises of God, is at best fleeting. Temporary comfort, brief periods of peace, momentary relief, and abbreviated times without stress, can be found. Religion or religious entities offer some answers. But, following a religious beliefs and customs, adhering to standards written by men, practicing rituals in order to attain peace are all things WE do. Consider. If we had the power within ourselves to bring about true lasting peace in all circumstances, why did God send His Son to die on the cross? In Christ Alone…

1Pe 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

2Co 1:3 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort;

A living hope. Living. Something that endures. Something active. Something in existence. Not dead. Not extinct.

In Christ alone my hope is found. Truth – when we take ourselves out of the equation. Dependence on me, on myself, in doing anything other than relying upon God’s promises, offers only temporary hope. Devastation and unforeseen tragedy will kill all hope found in anything but Christ.

Ex 15:2 "The LORD is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation; This is my God, and I will praise Him; My father's God, and I will extol Him.

He is my light, my strength, my song.

God created light. Ge 1:3-5 Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. And God called the light day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day.

God gives light. He gives us understanding. Ps 119:105 Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path. Ps 119:130 The unfolding of Thy words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.

Christ is our strength. 1Ch 16:11 Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face continually.

How is Christ our strength? He is our force, our security, our majesty, our praise, our boldness, our power. Ps 29:11 The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace. Ps 37:39 But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble.

The Lord is my song. My reason for praise.

Ps 103:1-5 (A Psalm of David.) Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities; Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit; Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.

Ps 34:1-6 (A Psalm of David when he feigned madness before Abimelech, who drove him) (away and he departed.) I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear it and rejoice. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the LORD, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man cried and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.

“This Cornerstone, this solid ground, firm through the fiercest drought and storm. What heights of love, what depths of peace, when fears are stilled, when strivings cease. My Comforter, my All in All, here in the love of Christ I stand.” 2008, Natalie Grant

Always out of our control… NEVER OUT OF GOD’S CONTROL

Hope found in Christ gives us light in the darkness, strength when we’re weak and reason to praise at all times!

Why?

I can’t imagine the nightmares that are being relived over and over in those who were present. I can’t imagine the fear of being in danger with nowhere to escape. I won’t pretend to understand what causes a mind to shatter and become someone who annihilates innocent people. I don’t know how to begin to comfort those who have experienced something so horrific.

ABC News: “live from the scene of the harrowing mass shooting in Las Vegas”
NBC News: “after gunman’s deadly spree, a lingering question: Why?”
FOX News: “Las Vegas shooter described as unstable”

Feelings and thoughts that are unsettling, fear-provoking, sorrow-filled, empty, perplexing, and doubting and threaten to give-up all hope, fill the mind.
How do we respond? How should we respond?

It’s difficult to know. I can’t imagine the nightmares that are being relived over and over in those who were present. I can’t imagine the fear of being in danger with nowhere to escape. I won’t pretend to understand what causes a mind to shatter and become someone who annihilates innocent people. I don’t know how to begin to comfort those who have experienced something so horrific. I am unable to explain how God allows such tremendous evil and pain in the world without just doing away with all of us.

This is what I do know. God has perfect knowledge and understanding.
Job 34:21 For His eyes are upon the ways of a man, and He sees all his steps.
Heb 4:13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.
I know that God hates sin.
Pr 15:9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, But He loves him who pursues righteousness.
He is all-powerful.
Job 42:2 “I know that Thou canst do all things, and that no purpose of Thine can be thwarted.
It doesn’t make sense to my limited mind. But I am convinced He has a plan. I’m convinced that plan is good. He never promised us all warmth and fuzzys on earth.
Mt 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

We want to hear God is love; we aren’t so excited to hear God is just.
De 32:4 “The Rock! His work is perfect, for all His ways are just; a God of faithfulness and without injustice, righteous and upright is He.
In fact, He promised His wrath on sin.
Eph 5:6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.

I won’t begin to even try and understand how this all works. Is my thinking weak, is it a cop-out, a choice to not deal with something hard? No. I simply am unable to fully appreciate the ways of God.
Job 26:14 “Behold, these are the fringes of His ways; and how faint a word we hear of Him! But His mighty thunder, who can understand?”
Do I need a reality check? No. Is God a fairy tale? No. Sin is real, very real. Evil is real, painfully real. God is true, He is the Truth.
Joh 14:6 Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.

Consider: The God of the Bible cannot be a fairy tale. No man would write a story that would contain the events in the Bible. It would never be a best-seller. People don’t flock to theaters to be reminded of how much they are in need. God’s word does contain a story, but it is not trivial. It’s real. However, it is not written by human understanding.

In the beginning, God. Creation of the world and all it contains. Providing all perfection. For man. Whom He loves. Then, man’s sin, challenging his Creator. What Father would not discipline His child whom He loves? The consequence, death. But whose? The offering of His Son, Jesus Christ, the perfect atonement.
Heb 2:9 But we do see Him who has been made for a little while lower than the angels, [namely,] Jesus, because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone.
Jesus willingly accepted our punishment.

God’s love for us is so far-reaching it is without human comprehension. He doesn’t ask for us to understand, just believe. Trust. Have faith.
Ac 16:31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household.”
Isa 43:10 “You are My witnesses,” declares the LORD, “And My servant whom I have chosen, in order that you may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me.

So where are we left with the recent massacre in our country? How do we help? Share what you know to be true. If you knew for certain that a massive destruction would occur, and that it would take out the people you work with, the people in your neighborhood, those in your family, your friends, acquaintances and all others in your path, would you warn them? Of course. If you truly loved them and you truly believed in the source of your information, you would. So, are you?

Ro 10:8-9 But what does it say? “THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART” –that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, 9 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus [as] Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved;

Even in the wake of a harrowing mass shooting, we can have peace. Let’s concentrate on what we know rather than what we can’t understand. There is hope in the promises of God. We set our hope on His future return. He will make all things right.
Ps 39:7 “And now, Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in Thee.
1Co 15:19 If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.
Ro 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Like this: